Sherwood's expression froze for a moment, but it was mostly filled with rage. He glared coldly at Jeffery, "Fool! Since you've turned against me, you're no longer my student."

Jeffery's face was ashen, staring in disbelief at the man who had raised him, both mentor and father figure. A sharp pain surged through his heart.

"Why?" he cried out in agony." Why are you doing this?"

"Why, you ask? You really are brainless!" Sherwood was livid, "I've always felt overshadowed and I'm done with it!"

Jeffery wanted to persuade him further, but a metallic taste rose in his throat, and he spat out another mouthful of blood, the sight of which was shocking.

Lilah watched, her anger towards Sherwood's actions growing.

"You won't win, not in this life or the next, not even against my master, she said coldly, stepping towards Sherwood with a mocking look at the man whose face was lined with age. Sherwood was thoroughly enraged, his eyes filled with fury as he glared at Lilah. "Fine, I'll show you what true martial prowess is today!"

With that, he spun towards Lilah like a whirlwind, his speed as fierce as a storm.

Lilah instinctively dodged, nearly getting hit, but Gerard joined the fray, slightly evening the odds.

Yet, for some reason, Sherwood was unusually erratic today, not only stronger but also displaying a wild and sinister demeanor.

"Stop fighting!" Hadley was on the verge of tears.

Jerrold was pale with worry, suddenly recalling the slingshot he had brought with him.

He quickly pulled out his little weapon and aimed at Sherwood, who was moving rapidly.

Once, twice, he missed both times.

But on the third attempt, he accidentally hit Sherwood's eye, causing him to scream in pain.

Jerrold jumped with excitement, unaware of the impending danger.

Sherwood scanned the area, realizing Jerrold had tricked him.

Instead of lashing out immediately, he slowly approached, and when Lilah and Gerard were too occupied to notice, he snatched Jerrold up.

Then, like a devil, he wrapped his fingers around Jerrold's fragile neck.

The child wailed in fear, leaving everyone stunned.

"Let him go!" Lilah was chilled to the bone. Sherwood was a terrifying madman now, and a slight movement of his fingers could spell danger for Jerrold.

"Sure, I'll let him go if Barth gives me the leadership medallion," Sherwood sneered, holding Jerrold tightly.

Jerrold struggled desperately, kicking and hitting, but it was futile.

Lilah's heart ached at the sight, but she hesitated.