Evelyn was confused.

She could feel Ethan's intense hostility from a distance.

What was wrong with her cousin?

Yesterday he was eager to help her.

Today he was a completely different person.

Evelyn wanted to understand. "Is there some misunderstanding between us?"

"No misunderstanding."

Ethan narrowed his eyes, staring intently at her.

He spoke each word slowly. "Cortez Sect rules show no mercy in the arena. Are you sure you want to do this?"

Seeing he wouldn't explain, Evelyn stopped pressing.

She simply nodded. "I'm sure."

"Fine. Then don't blame me for being ruthless!"

Ethan turned and walked into the courtyard.

He stood at the center.

Evelyn followed him inside.

Whispers came from the Outer Disciples around them.

"Why is Second Senior Brother here today?"

"In previous years, it was always Third Senior Brother's duty. Who can pass Second Senior Brother's test?"

"Second Senior Brother looks terrifying..."

"There's no hope of entering the Inner Sect this year..."

While everyone murmured, Ethan scanned the crowd.

He announced loudly, "Don't worry. I'll go easy today. I'll try to let everyone register successfully!"

Then he glanced at Evelyn.

Except for her.

Today, he would make sure Grace Nan bled on this very ground.

Hopefully, she wouldn't even be able to attend the banquet four days from now.

The Outer Disciples immediately relaxed.

One person stepped forward first. "Second Senior Brother, you'll really go easy?"

"Of course. Come on."

Ethan crooked his finger.

The disciple threw a punch, but Ethan easily blocked it.

Ethan released him. "Sorry, instinct... Try again."

The disciple attacked again.

Ethan clearly held back, letting him pass the test.

The disciple happily went to register.

Then came the second.

And the third...

Evelyn waited in line.

Someone tugged at her sleeve from behind.

She turned to see a thin, frail boy.

He whispered excitedly, "Grace! We can all register successfully this year!"

Evelyn was puzzled.

The boy continued in a hushed voice. "In previous years, we couldn't even pass one move from Third Senior Brother."

"This year, Second Senior Brother is being kind. He'll definitely go easy on us."

"Just being able to register means Jason won't dare bully us anymore!"

Evelyn frowned slightly.

Jason?

Who was that?

Before she could figure it out, a voice called from the arena. "Next, John Evans!"

The boy answered and stepped forward.

He glanced back at Evelyn. "I'll test if Second Senior Brother is really holding back."

John passed the test smoothly.

He ran back excitedly. "Grace! We really have a chance this year!"

On the platform, Ethan suddenly grinned. "Next, Grace Nan!"

Evelyn stepped onto the platform.

As soon as she steadied herself, Ethan spoke.

"Grace, I'm going to take good 'care' of you later!"

"Three moves. Make sure you hold on!"

Evelyn sensed heavy sarcasm and killing intent in his words.

This man actually wanted to kill her?

Evelyn immediately stepped back, adopting a defensive stance.

She had to give her all today.

She couldn't disgrace her master.

Ethan sneered. "All show."

This Grace Nan was just like her stance—all flash, no substance.

His uncle was fooled, but he wasn't.

He had gone easy on the others to conserve his strength.

Now he could rightfully avenge his uncle.

A cold smile curled Ethan's lips.

He bent his body and lunged forward.

Fists and feet flew, aiming to end the fight in one move.

He could already picture her beaten and lying on the ground.

But the next second, Ethan's smile froze on his face.