An Understated Dominance (Maria Vittori) novel Chapter 2218

"Who the hell are you? Tell us your name!" Garrett's face tensed as he frowned.

Despite his attack, the beggar remained unruffled and composed. Not only did the beggar's counterattack neutralize Garrett's strike, but it also sent him stumbling back.

Garrett realized the beggar's skill surpassed his. It was hard for him to fathom how someone so unassuming could wield such power.

"Ah… excellent wine!" The drunkard remained indifferent to Garrett's question and fully engrossed in his drink.

Sensing Garrett's mounting frustration, Hank stepped in. "Let's not get worked up, gentlemen."

He stood between the two parties with a smile. "You know what they say about a friendly spar can break the ice. After our little tussle earlier, I bet we all better understand each other now. Allow me to make the introductions."

With a gesture toward the drunkard, he said, "This gentleman here is the esteemed Mr. Willard Lent. He is also known as the Wein Sage. I'm sure many of you are familiar with his reputation."

"Wait! He is Willard Lent, the Wein Sage?"

The others couldn't hide their surprise.

Willard was a well-known figure in the martial world. Rumors abound of his insatiable love for wine and his indifference to fame, fortune, and power. Yet, his martial prowess was unrivaled.

He was ranked at the forefront among grandmaster martial artists.

Willard was infamous for his elusive behavior. It was characterized by movements akin to a phantom marked by unmatched stealth and agility.

Numerous attempts to locate him had proven futile. Hence, stumbling upon him at today's gathering was quite unexpected.

The individual before them bore little resemblance to the esteemed figure they had envisioned. After all, he looked like a beggar.

If not for his display of formidable power against Garrett earlier, they might not have believed that this ragged beggar was indeed the famed Wein Sage.

"Mr. Styles, are you sure he's the Wein Sage?" Garrett's frown deepened as he eyed Willard with suspicion.

Garrett was familiar with the reputation of the Wein Sage. He knew that on the grandmaster rankings, the Wein Sage's position surpassed even that of the Cosmos Demon.

He couldn't comprehend why someone of such high stature appeared as destitute as a beggar.

"Elder Mason, you've just sparred with Mr. Lent. What do you think?"

With a smile, Hank added, "You can try to assume a role, but genuine strength always reveals itself. If it weren't Mr. Lent, with his legendary reputation as the Wein Sage, who else could stand on par with you?"

His words were tactful. He subtly boosted Garrett's ego and diffused any tension between them.

As Hank's praise lifted Garrett's spirits, he asked, "So, is Willard the one we've been expecting?"