The moment Wenwu's words fell, Tony Stark knew it—his opponent would now keep a watchful eye on the skies above.
Dropping Seraphim satellites as self-destructing bombs was no longer a guaranteed victory.
And then, in a move that stunned everyone, Tony lifted his faceplate and said:
"Wenwu, for the sake of a man so loyal to his wife… I concede this fight."
Before anyone could react, Tony stepped off the ring. Passing Smith Dole, he added casually:
"Oh, and that goes for the remaining three bouts as well."
He turned once more to Wenwu:
"Protect your wife this time. Don't let regret ever return. You may not get another chance to wish."
With that, Tony walked toward Pepper, leaving only his back to Wenwu.
Wenwu stared after him, strangely moved. When Yingli returned, he could not allow her to face danger again. Tony was right—there might never be a second wish.
He bowed his hands. "Thank you."
Applause broke out across the arena. Even those who didn't like Tony couldn't help but respect his graceful exit.
Thor muttered, sulking, "Why didn't I get that chance? To bring back my brother… it's no less than bringing back a lover. The fates are unfair."
Others, quicker to judge, saw through it—Tony had no hope left of winning. Better to yield now than suffer four humiliating defeats in a row.
Tina smirked, arms folded. "Clever little mortal."
Smith Dole raised his voice:
"By forfeit, the winner is Wenwu. Since Tony Stark concedes the remaining matches, this year's Dragon Ball Tournament Champion—Wenwu!"
Orderlies began guiding the other contestants and spectators to their transports. Only Wenwu and his family remained, the stage cleared for the final act.
Smith Dole stood with Wenwu on the ring. A white robot carried a tray forward—seven Dragon Balls gleaming like suns.
"Wenwu, once more I confirm—your wish is to resurrect your wife, Yingli?"
Breathing heavy with anticipation, Wenwu's voice trembled: "Yes. That is my only wish."
"No changes?"
"No changes."
But just as Smith prepared to summon Shenron, Wenwu suddenly spoke again.
"Smith… I am willing to pay any price. If, like Selina, I must join the League of Assassins, then so be it. For my wife, I will surrender all else."
Xialing's lips twitched. She had expected as much—there was never a wish without cost. This was just the League cherry-picking new blood.
Shangqi wasn't surprised either. He knew his father's devotion—Wenwu would sacrifice anything, just as he once destroyed every enemy clan that had slain Yingli.
Smith blinked, caught off guard. He had never intended to recruit Wenwu. But if the man was offering himself so readily… why refuse?
"Wenwu, let me make this clear. Joining the League of Assassins has nothing to do with the wish."
Wenwu's eyes shone. Of course. No one would simply hand over a wish so freely.
"Yes. I join of my own will—it has nothing to do with Shenron."
Smith asked again, "You are certain this is voluntary?"
Wenwu clasped Smith's hands, his voice deep and fervent.
"Yes. From the moment I heard of the League's mission, I admired it. Now, your creed shines even brighter to me. From this day, Wenwu stands with you—sworn enemy of all evil!"
Smith's lips twitched, hiding a grin. "Very well. Your loyalty is clear. I accept your oath. We'll settle the details after the wish."
Wenwu smiled, satisfied. Young leader indeed—waiting for me to offer it first.
Smith placed the Dragon Balls down, his voice booming:
"Come forth, Shenron!"
Golden light erupted. Day turned to night across the entire Earth. And from the heavens, a colossal azure dragon descended, scales glimmering like stars.
(End of Chapter)
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