chapter437

Suddenly, Theodore made the first move. He shot toward Connor like lightning, throwing a hard right punch that cut through the air.

Connor didn't even flinch. He slipped to the side, dodging the punch with ease, then snapped back with a quick, sweeping kick aimed at Theodore's legs. Theodore reacted just as fast, pushing off with both feet and leaping up, clearing the attack.

Their fight was a blur of fists and flying kicks, each move more intense than the last. Connor fired off a heavy straight punch that almost seemed to slice the air in half. Theodore tried to retreat, but he wasn't quick enough. Forced to cross his arms and take the blow head-on, he staggered back, nearly knocked off his feet by the punch's force.

He swore to himself. At least, for now, the Northruler's reputation was still safe. If he could survive three rounds, even if he lost, he'd still have some pride left.

Lydia watched from the sidelines, one eyebrow raised. Connor really lived up to his reputation. Even after leaving the military, his strength was something else.

Theodore spun, whipping his right leg around in a fast, sharp kick. Connor dodged again, then grabbed Theodore's ankle and yanked hard. Theodore lost his balance, but he rolled through the air and landed on his feet, steady as ever.

This wasn't just a test of strength. It was a battle of skill, and every second had everyone on edge.

After a few more exchanges, a thin line of blood appeared at the corner of Theodore's mouth. He'd taken a heavy hit earlier, and it had shaken him. He wiped it away with the back of his hand, his eyes growing fiercer, like a wounded animal that was only getting more determined.

Connor threw him down again, hard. This time, Theodore's men started shifting anxiously. Theodore had told them not to interfere, win or lose, but if things kept going like this, Theodore would end up seriously hurt, maybe worse.

Connor could tell Theodore was in bad shape. His voice was cold and sharp. "Leave. And don't show your face in front of L ever again."

Theodore didn't care about gus dignity anymore. He scrambled up, breathing hard, looking almost relieved, like he'd been hoping for this out.

"A bet's a bet. We're leaving."

Before he left, he shot Lydia a long look, his gaze dark and hard to read.

"Well? Why are you all still standing here? Move!"

His man Kit rushed over to catch up with Theodore, who was limping now. He whispered, "Boss, are we really just letting them go?" With all their people, they could have taken Commor, no matter how tough he was.

"You idiot. You want to stay here and get beaten up too? Seriously? Did you enjoy watching me get knocked around?"

"No, boss, I wouldn't dare."

"Hmph. A bunch of fools. Seriously."

Theodore grumbled in his head, L was always one of them. What are these idiots

still jumping around for? Are they asking to get hit?

Then he added, "Tell everyone in the Northern Guild, no one is to bother J from now on. If you see her, treat her like a queen."

Kit was completely baffled. Was their boss really this scared of L's fianc after getting beat up?

Tonight had been an eye-opener for Lydia. Even after three years out of the military, Connor hadn't lost his edge at all And he'd managed this while still recovering from an eye injury.

She clapped slowly, the sound echoing in the quiet. "Impressive."

Connor caught his breath, the corners of his mouth lifting in a small smile. I'm glad you liked the show."

Lydia grinned. "I want to see more."

Connor raised his eyebrows and glanced at Aiden, who was trying to blend into the darkness.

Aiden quickly spoke up. "Lydia, I still

have

ve you and the boss

to the city. If I get hurt, you'll both I be stuck out here all nights