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#290 - Chapter 24: Trial by Combat (I)

Finally, the thrilling Trial by Combat day arrived. Countless citizens surged towards the plaza like a tide, each filled with unparalleled excitement and anticipation, eagerly awaiting the life-or-death duel about to unfold. The arena for the Trial by Combat was located outside the King's Gate, an ancient structure built by the legendary King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, the Old King, over two hundred years ago. After careful renovation and expansion by successive monarchs, it could now accommodate over twelve hundred spectators. Its appearance closely resembled the Roman Colosseum, exuding a strong classical aura.

Those who could enter to watch were no ordinary individuals, either prominent nobles of King's Landing or immensely wealthy merchants. Moreover, some brought their families. Additionally, there were merchants who had traveled from overseas and purchased tickets, making the arena packed and bustling! The reason was none other than the participation of Gregor Clegane, known as the 'Most Vicious Knight in the Seven Kingdoms,' in this Trial by Combat. His opponent was the recently rising Marquis Garron, a mysterious marquis surrounded by swirling and contradictory rumors! Not long ago, he single-handedly killed two members of the Kingsguard with his bare hands, demonstrating unfathomable and astonishing strength.

As the time for the match drew nearer, the atmosphere grew increasingly fervent, with shouts and cheers from the audience resounding throughout the arena. Their emotions were high, their faces filled with excitement, anticipating the thrilling and bloody duel about to unfold.

At this moment, Liu Yuan, dressed in a vibrant sky-blue hunting outfit, stood tall and upright as a pine tree. He wore no cumbersome armor, only a sturdy breastplate and metal bracers on his arms for protection. He leisurely held a parasol, sitting in the waiting area, with a table beside him filled with iced drinks and fresh fruit. Just then, Tyrion walked in and immediately noticed the scene before him.

Tyrion: "You shouldn't be drinking before a duel. I heard from Bronn that alcohol can numb the body and reduce reaction time. Please, I don't want to die."

Liu Yuan: "Please, I'm risking my life for you. You should think about your next move! You can't stay in King's Landing or Casterly Rock. Your father will definitely disown you. From now on, you'll be penniless."

Tyrion couldn't resist the temptation and sat down to pour himself a drink. "I need to survive first. If you lose, I'm dead, without even a chance to wear the black."

Cheers erupted in the arena as Gregor entered under the gaze of the crowd. He wore full plate armor, making him look like a tin can with only his eyes visible. Combined with his height of over two meters, his footsteps echoed loudly, creating a sense of immense pressure. Behind him, a servant struggled to carry his weapon, a wide-bladed greatsword.

Tyrion looked at Liu Yuan again and said, "Your armor is too thin. At least wear a helmet!"

Liu Yuan chuckled, "I only wear a helmet on the battlefield. Just stop worrying. Watch my performance later." He stood up, grabbed the Kang Long Mace from under the table, and walked into the arena.

When Gregor Clegane and Liu Yuan stepped into the arena together, the previously noisy and chaotic arena instantly fell silent. Everyone held their breath, their eyes fixed on the two protagonists in the center. They stood face to face, their eyes meeting. Gregor said in a muffled voice, "I've heard of your deeds and wanted to fight you for a long time. Although the Queen Regent ordered me to kill you! But the Hand of the King wants me to spare your life! So you're lucky. I only plan to break all the bones in your body."

Liu Yuan: "Is that so? Thank you. Your brother once said he would take your dog's life with his own hands. I'll give him a chance too, by not killing you. Your idea is good. I'll break your bones in a moment, but your mouth is too foul, and your tongue probably won't be spared."

With Grand Maester Pycelle's command, the fierce battle officially began! Gregor, like a ferocious beast, charged towards Liu Yuan with astonishing speed. His massive body exuded a chilling aura, and the immense power it contained was frightening.

However, facing such a fierce attack, Liu Yuan displayed extraordinary agility. He flashed aside, easily dodging Gregor's powerful blow. He also slapped him, knocking his helmet askew.

The greatsword struck the ground heavily, leaving a long gash, creating a sword-gale-like effect with pure physical strength. This guy looked huge and clumsy, but his combat experience was extremely rich, built on countless lives.

The Mountain twisted his body, wielding the sword horizontally with both hands. Liu Yuan raised his Kang Long Mace to block the blow. He estimated from the impact that the Mountain's strength and physique had reached the threshold of the second tier, which was fifty points. He was the strongest human he had encountered, even surpassing many White Walkers. Perhaps he only needed a breakthrough to become a legendary hero of the third tier.

Seeing Liu Yuan steadily block his attack, the Mountain was very surprised. He had not yet encountered an opponent who could directly withstand him! Without much hesitation, he kicked out. Liu Yuan bent his knee and kicked his shin, using his strength to leap high backward. After landing, the audience erupted in thunderous cheers.

The Mountain's sword was fierce, each swing carrying immense power and a deadly threat. Liu Yuan continuously parried with his weapon, dissolving the power transmitted through the Kang Long Mace.

The audience was excited, their cheers rising and falling, as if to break through the clouds. In their eyes, this match was thrilling, with both contestants using all their skills, neither willing to show weakness.

Just then, Liu Yuan spotted a momentary weakness in Gregor and unhesitatingly swung the iron mace in his hand, striking the opponent's calf hard. A scream was heard, "Ah!" Gregor was caught off guard, lost his balance, and crashed to the ground. Instantly, the entire arena erupted, the thunderous cheers deafening.

Immediately afterward, Liu Yuan grabbed Gregor's leg and threw him out with all his might. The Mountain, as if swept up by a whirlwind, crashed into the wall of the spectator stands. The enormous impact caused several solid stone railings to snap, and the Mountain fell heavily back into the arena. However, this astonishing impact did not seem to cause much damage to Gregor. He struggled to his feet, swaying, his eyes flashing with a fierce light.