Just as Shi Lei's fist was about to connect, with mere fractions of an inch to spare, the Hero King tilted his head in a seemingly casual motion and neatly evaded the blow.
At the same time, a broad palm reached out and caught Shi Lei's incoming fist.
BOOM!!!
The Pulse Bolt embedded in his wrist fired. Together with the original force of the punch, it sent an almost visible shock wave surging out beneath the Hero King's feet. Sand and dust flew up, and even the nearby wilderness warriors lost their footing and fell. Only then did they realize an intruder was attacking their King, and they all looked over.
By the time those stark-white grains of salt fell back to the ground, the Hero King had already turned around at some point, still holding Shi Lei's iron fist. His grip was so powerful that sparks burst from the fist, accompanied by the constant creaking of metal under unbearable strain.
"A fine blow."
The Hero King wore a satisfied smile. Despite the surprise attack, he was unexpectedly unangered, and his every movement had remained effortless from the start. After all, he was a man known as the War King. Fighting was as ordinary as breathing to him; an attack from a mere mosquito or fly would not cause an uproar. Even the surrounding wilderness warriors remained still, much less came to their King's aid.
The King continued, "You are stronger than any of the warriors under my command. Very good. I like you.
"So... stay and become my subject. In that case, I will pardon this act of disrespect. But remember, only this once..."
The Hero King's voice grew colder, gradually taking on a threatening edge. He even turned his head toward the coast. This gesture startled both Shi