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An Understated Dominance Chapter 1219
It was late at night. The crescent moon shone with a faint silver glow as a black car stopped in front of the Grant mansion.Vlad was the first to get out as the door swung open. He quickly directed his men as they carried a huge burlap sack and rushed into the house.Silently and discreetly, they made their way to a secret room.These were the lupine guards of the Grant family, and the secret room was a place for interrogation."Open it!" Vlad ordered as he sat on a chair, pouring himself a glass of wine. One of the men deftly tore through the sack with a knife. Out tumbled a man, his hair disheveled and wounds visible across his body. It was Hector!"Old man, do you know who I am?" Vlad asked with an icy gaze, swirling the wine in his glass."Are you Vlad Grant?" Hector took a careful look at him. He was quick to notice that something was amiss."Hey! You're quite smart. You actually know me." Vlad took a huge gulp of wine and said coldly, "Since you already know who I a
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1220
Hector's muscles on his face began twitching uncontrollably, and he was sweating profusely. Nevertheless, his gaze remained steadfast despite the extreme pain inflicted upon him."Well, well! It looks like if I don't up my game, you won't give up the map easily." Vlad was annoyed. He chucked away the boning knife and browsed through the torture rack again. As such, many torture instruments of different sizes and functions began piling up on the table."See these treasures? I will use all of them on you. I hope you don't die quickly!" Vlad sneered, picking up another torture instrument.With that, the endless cycles of physical torment continued.Time ticked by slowly. The secret room stank of blood while things appeared calm and well just outside the room. Kate paced outside restlessly. It had been three hours since they started interrogating Hector. However, they still got nothing. Time was running out as they only had a few hours till the break of dawn. If she didn't have t
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1221
At the break of dawn, in a luxurious mansion somewhere. Natasha, who was sleeping, suddenly opened her eyes when she heard something moving. She got up, walked to the window, and opened a slit between the curtains. Under the hazy moonlight, she was shocked to see the bodyguards on night duty lying on the ground."Hmm?" Natasha furrowed her brow. She quickly took out a pistol from a drawer in her headboard. Opening the door gently, she carefully observed her surroundings before going into the room next door."Ruth …" Natasha patted her sister, who was still asleep. When Ruth woke up, Natasha covered her mouth and signaled her to keep quiet. "Don't make any noise. There's an intruder.""Intruder?" Ruth rubbed her sleepy eyes and mumbled, "Natasha, are you dreaming? Our house is surrounded by exceptionally skilled bodyguards day and night. Who would risk their lives?""They have been defeated. It's very dangerous now. Come with me now!" Natasha said with a serious expression.
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1222
Kate was impatient as she quickly ordered them to open up the burlap sacks. Very soon, the unconscious Natasha and Ruth were freed from the sacks. "Great, we've got both of them. There shouldn't be any problem now." Kate was pleased about the current turn of events. Hector would definitely surrender the information with his two weaknesses in their hands now."What? It's her!" Vlad was stunned when he saw Natasha."Why? Do you know her?" Kate frowned. If they knew each other, there'd be trouble."I saw her once." Vlad replied solemnly and continued, "I was injured by an ignorant man when I got into a fight at the hotel yesterday. She's with that man."After he was defeated, he sent his henchmen to investigate Dustin. However, he couldn't find Dustin's whereabouts. What a coincidence; they actually kidnapped his woman. Things were really going in their favor now."Vlad, the person who defeated you yesterday, was his name Dustin Rhys?" Kate quickly asked."I think that's his n
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1223
"Natasha?" When Hector looked carefully, he was instantly agitated. "Kate Harmon! Don't do anything stupid! She's your cousin!""What cousin? She's just a bitch!" Kate yelled. She added, "She has always liked to compete against me since we were kids. It remains the same even to this day. "Whenever there was something good at home, you always gave it all to her. I could only use whatever that was left. What right did you have to do that? How am I inferior to her?""Kate, I have never been biased toward any of you. Natasha worked hard for her success today. Both of you started with the same resources." Hector said sincerely. In fact, he gave more resources to Kate than he did to his daughter."Nonsense! Do you think I'll believe your bullshit? If you weren't secretly helping her and providing her with all kinds of assistance, how could Natasha be better than I am?" Kate snorted. From her point of view, Hector had used his status as the family's patriarch to pave the way for Na
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1224
Suddenly, Kate raised her hand and struck Hector's neck with the knife's sheath. He immediately passed out after that."Now that Dustin has the treasure map, it's time to settle our scores," Vlad said with a sinister grin. He added, "I'll send someone after him."Kate narrowed her eyes. "No need to go through the trouble. Instead of chasing him down, let's make him come to us willingly.""Oh? Do you have a plan?" he asked curiously."Just watch." She approached Natasha and tore her nightgown with little explanation.Vlad's desire intensified as he saw Natasha's exposed skin and alluring lingerie. He found her irresistible."Hang her up. I want to record a video," Kate said and took her phone out. "Oh, and stand beside her for a photo. It'll spice things up.""Sure thing!" He grinned and instructed someone to hang Natasha on a pillar. Then, he grabbed a strand of her hair and sniffed it with uncontrollable desire."Perfect." Kate was satisfied with the video she recorded. Th
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1225
The next morning, Zephyr Lodge was bustling with activity. It was Dustin's birthday!Everyone in the Kirin gang was taking it seriously. They had sent out invitations a few days ago for a big party.The Kirin gang had been in charge of the Millsburg underworld for a long time, with Dustin being known as the King of the Underworld. Today, he was receiving birthday wishes from various factions. Even those who weren't on the guest list hurried to send gifts.Meanwhile, Dustin was meditating in the main room of the villa. However, an urgent knock interrupted his mediation. "What's going on?" He opened the door and found Cornelius standing there."Sir Rhys, we've got a problem!" Cornelius said seriously.He went on, "Early this morning, a group of unknown martial artists broke into Ms. Harmon's villa. We had our men for her protection, but they killed all our men. And now, Ms. Harmon is missing. She might have been kidnapped!""What?" Dustin's expression changed. "How did this h
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1226
In Balerno, Tyler was unmatched among the younger generation. Everyone believed that with him leading the way, the Grant family would become even more influential and ultimately rule over Balerno.When Tyler's engagement was announced, it drew attention from all the folks in Millsburg. Not only that, but important people like leaders, merchants, and the rich from all major cities in Balerno also came to show their respect.As dawn approached, the Grant mansion was bustling with guests.In the meeting room, Tyler sat at the center, calm amidst the grandeur. To his sides were key members of the Grant family — uncles, aunts, cousins — all lowering their status, hardly daring to make a sound.When Tyler became General Lionheart and took over as the family patriarch from Arthur Grant, his grandfather, some elder members of the family weren't happy. They argued Tyler lacked experience and qualifications. But within three days, those who opposed him met unfortunate ends, and none of the
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Chapter 2530
The next morning, Nathaniel was inside a lavish mansion. He was in his study, flipping through an ancient manuscript. One of his most trusted aides hurried in and lowered his voice, "Your Royal Highness, word just came in. Another trace of Dracan essence has been found."Nathaniel raised an eyebrow and closed the manuscript. "Where?""Our investigation shows it ended up in the hands of Logan Rhys," the aide replied."Logan Rhys?" Nathaniel narrowed his eyes slightly and was surprised by the name.He had tried to win Logan over before and spared no expense, but never received a response. Later, he discovered that Tristan and Matthias had done the same.Fortunately, Logan still hadn't picked a side. He might be holding out for the best offer, but at least he hadn't shut the door on Nathaniel.With the Dracan essence in his hands, Logan had become an even more valuable target. In addition to the West Lucozian monarchy, Logan was an ultimate grandmaster, which made him worth recrui
Chapter 2529
"Give me a moment to think," Dustin said.Grace's words sent him into deep thought.After all, carrying the fate of Dragonmarsh was no small burden. First, he had to be tough enough to handle it. Then, he needed the resolve to accept what came with it. Once he carried that burden, it meant taking on a heavyweight.He used to act on his own terms and do things as he pleased without worrying too much about the consequences. But once the nation's fate was involved, everything changed.Not that he had many options.Dustin could either hide in Sacred Wrym Summit and hope Arion would protect him, or take a risk and absorb the Dragonmarsh's fate to push through his cultivation's bottleneck. Between the two, he was leaning toward the latter."I can give your plan a shot," Dustin said suddenly. "But we're still missing a piece of the Dracan essence. If we're doing this, we need to find that last one first."Only once all five pieces of Dracan essence were united could he truly wield the
Chapter 2528
"Royal gods? And two of them?" Dustin frowned at the news.His battle with Poseidon in West Lucozia had shown him firsthand that the Hall of Gods didn't send weaklings into the field.One royal god had already pushed him to his limit. If two came at him together, winning wasn't even the question. He'd be lucky just to make it out alive."That's right," Grace said solemnly. "The royal gods, Zeus and Hera, have crossed the border. They're even stronger than Poseidon. If they ambush you together, your chances are slim."She knew Dustin was strong, but he was still young. Moreover, Zeus and Hera weren't just anyone. They were world-class powerhouses. Surviving a fight with them would be next to impossible.The Hall of Gods had probably figured out how dangerous Dustin could become. If they had given him a few more years to grow, they might not have been able to stop him."Well, that complicates things." Dustin rested his chin in one hand with a thoughtful expression.Two royal god
Chapter 2527
Soluna Hall had one rule—they wouldn't accept unfamiliar customers. They only served those they knew well or people introduced by someone they trusted. Every transaction required an appointment. Exceptions were made for urgent matters, but those came with an additional fee.When Dustin reached the entrance, two security guards stopped him. After stating his name and being verified by the guards, they let him through.Inside, a female attendant with a pleasant smile greeted him and led him across the main hall straight into the back garden. They passed a small fish pond and stopped in front of a secluded private room."This is Ms. Linsor's private reception area. Mr. Rhys, please come in," the female attendant said with a smile."She's not here?" Dustin asked curiously."She had something come up, but she'll be here soon. Please make yourself comfortable," the attendant said, still smiling."Alright then." He nodded and walked into the room.The room was spacious, with a vintag
Chapter 2526
"You're wrong, Tristan," Matthias said with a meaningful look.He continued, "Sure, I've got the Moseys to back me, but I'm still far from securing the throne. Nathaniel's got strong backing too, and this won't be an easy win. But if you were to support me, I'd say my chances shoot up to 80%."In his eyes, Tristan's support was worth more than the Ballard family.If he could win Tristan over, his odds would jump from 60% to nearly 80%. The only question now was whether Tristan would be willing to shelve his own ambitions and place his bet on Matthias."You know me, Matthias. I've never been one for ambition or glory. This kind of power struggle just isn't for me. I hope you can understand that," Tristan said.After thinking about it thoroughly, he finally turned his brother down. He knew his chances of winning were slim, yet he couldn't let go.Tristan was the eldest legitimate son, the rightful and undisputed heir to the throne. Aside from his poor health, he had no real shortco
Chapter 2525
Tristan, Matthias, and Nathaniel weren't fools. They understood the unspoken message loud and clear.Their purpose for this trip was to take advantage of the opportunity to offer their condolences and win the Ballard family's support. Should it work, all the better. If not, they'd at least make a good impression. The key was that as long as the Ballard family didn't pick a side or turn against them, there was still room to make things work. No need to rush into anything.Tristan spoke first. "You're being too kind, Duke of Lachshire. We've always admired Mr. Jovian's loyalty and courage. We're simply here to pay our respects—nothing more."Matthias added, "That's right. Your family has a lot to deal with right now. Plus, you're not as young as you used to be, so don't wear yourself out over this. We won't take up more of your time today."He gave a respectful nod, then turned to leave."Duke—"Nathaniel opened his mouth to speak, but Tristan interrupted. "That's enough, Nathani
Chapter 2524
"Oh? I didn't expect both of you to be here," Nathaniel said.He was just about to pay his respects when he spotted Tristan and Matthias inside the mourning hall. He gave a respectful nod and said, "Hello, Tristan, Matthias."Truthfully, he wasn't surprised. He had already guessed they would show up.The four ancient houses and the eight great families were all key players he needed on his side. And with the Ballard family still undecided, he wasn't about to miss the chance to make an impression."I heard you left Oakvale on official business. Funny how quickly you came back," Tristan said, his tone laced with meaning."It wasn't anything important. When I heard about Mr. Jovian's passing, I returned immediately. I wanted to pay my respects in person," Nathaniel answered smoothly, without missing a beat.He brushed off Tristan's subtle jab and used the moment to show the Ballard family he was genuinely there to pay his respects."Don't just stand there, Nathaniel. Go pay your re
Chapter 2523
"Your Royal Highness, it's an honor to have you here," Jonathan said.Upon seeing the distinguished guest arrive, he quickly pulled himself together and aside his grief. He led his family to greet Tristan, and they bowed in respect.Before they could finish the gesture, Tristan raised a hand to stop them. "No need for such formalities," he said. "The deceased deserves our respect."He turned to Jovian's portrait, which was displayed in the mourning hall, and sighed deeply.Tristan continued, "Mr. Jovian's untimely passing is truly a great loss to Dragonmarsh. May his soul rest in peace. My condolences to your family during this difficult time."Jonathan's eyes were filled with tears as he bowed his head slightly. "Thank you, Your Highness, for your kind words. My family is heartbroken over my brother's tragic death."Tristan nodded slightly. His gaze quickly swept across the hall before asking, "I've heard that Duke Lachshire fainted from grief. How is he doing now?"Jonathan
Chapter 2522
The unrest in West Lucozia finally ended with the capture of Warrick.Every official who was his accomplice was thoroughly investigated. Those who needed to be arrested were taken into custody, and those who deserved to be punished were executed.After the purge, more than 300 officials in West Lucozia were removed from their posts. Those guilty were arrested, and those whose crimes were severe were executed.Under Austin's iron-fisted reforms, West Lucozia's government underwent a complete overhaul. Corruption, bribery, and the tangled web of illegal deals were swept away like dust in the wind.The citizens quickly noticed the difference. When they visited government offices, they no longer faced delays, refusals, or demands for bribes.Long-neglected public issues began to move forward, thanks to the organized efforts of newly appointed officials. Things were improving across the board.Instead of fearing the crackdown, the citizens welcomed it. The corrupt officials who had dr
