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An Understated Dominance Chapter 1921
Grace raised her glass and smiled. "Cheers, everyone! No need for formality. Dig in and enjoy yourselves."Seeing the tempting array of dishes, the disciples of the Embersteel Order eagerly indulged, savoring each bite without hesitation. As rounds of wine flowed, their camaraderie began to flourish. "Ms. Linsor, Dustin, judging by your appearances, you're not locals. Are you also on the hunt for the treasure?" Jackson subtly asked."Yes, we heard of treasures in the Deadlands, so we assembled a team for the challenge and to gain some experience," she replied candidly.It was universally understood that anyone braving the dangerous Deadlands was on a quest for its hidden treasures. Considering the treacherous nature of the terrain, the idea of visiting for leisure was entirely dismissed."Ms. Linsor, pardon my directness, but venturing into the Deadlands carries significant risks," Jackson cautioned, eyeing them both.He added, "A single misstep could prove fatal, and it seems n
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1922
"What? Someone actually made it out?" Grace perked up immediately, firing off questions. "Who is it? Where can we find this person?"The mysterious oasis was a labyrinth of unknowns, and anyone managing to navigate their way out likely possessed valuable insights. Hence, getting hold of such information wouldn't just reduce risks but also boost the chances of a successful treasure hunt.Garrett replied, "The person in question is Ryan Gale, a member of the Arcane Path Guild. He is known for his expertise in escape techniques."He continued, "His disappearance raised concerns three days ago when he ventured into the oasis and went completely off the radar. "Unexpectedly, he has now reappeared in Dusthaven Village with severe injuries. The village chief is taking care of him right now.""Ryan Gale from the Arcane Path Guild?" Jackson arched an eyebrow. "I've heard of him. He holds quite a reputation in the martial world and has attained an advanced stage of divinity—an undeniable p
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1923
"Of course! That's a blue jadeite, and it's also an antique that's worth a fortune!" Garrett snapped. "Worth a fortune? What a treasure!" The middle-aged man's face lit up with joy as he carefully put away the pendant. "We left in a hurry, so I didn't manage to bring anything else with me. The pendant is valuable, so I hope you'll like it," Grace said with a slight smile."Miss, considering your sincerity, I'll pass on the message. But whether Mr. Zaeske decides to see you is beyond my control," the middle-aged man said cautiously."Thank you." Grace nodded slightly."Alright, please wait a moment," the middle-aged man said and entered the courtyard.After three minutes, he reappeared with a smile on his face. "Miss, Mr. Zaeske has agreed to see you. However, for safety reasons, you can only bring one person with you.""Garrett, please keep watch here. I'll be going in with Dustin," Grace instructed. She then headed inside with Dustin. …Ryan lay unconscious inside a bedroo
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1924
"Young man, you haven't even assessed the patient's condition, and yet you claim confidence in healing him. Isn't that a bit presumptuous?" Bob was evidently displeased.Although he was a rural doctor, he had over ten years of medical experience and had saved numerous lives. How could a young, inexperienced man be able to cure Ryan when even he couldn't do so?"The patient has 13 external injuries, the most serious being the wound that penetrated his chest and exited through his back. Fortunately, his exceptional physical condition allowed him to survive. "The real challenge lies in the extensive poisoning. His internal organs have sustained varying degrees of damage. If we don't remove it swiftly, he won't make it through tomorrow," Dustin explained Ryan's injuries in detail. "How … How did you figure that out?" Bob was shocked. He had to perform a thorough examination and read Ryan's pulse to arrive at his diagnosis. So how did the young man before him achieve the same?
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1925
Observing Ryan's distressed state, Grace quickly reassured him, "Ryan, calm down. You're safe now. Nothing can hurt you here. You don't have to be afraid." If she didn't, they wouldn't be able to extract any useful information from him with his current emotional state.However, Ryan remained engulfed by fear, unable to calm down. He continued clutching his head, trembling, and muttering to himself."Is he … losing his mind? What do we do now?" Kayson grew anxious. The money bag that was at hand was now mentally unstable. What a headache."Dustin, is there any way to calm him down?" Grace asked, giving him a sidelong glance. "Easy." Without much ado, Dustin produced a silver needle and inserted it right into the nape of Ryan's neck. Almost instantly, Ryan shuddered and then peacefully fell unconscious on the bed. "This is your method?" Grace looked at him quizzically. While Ryan was now calm, how were they supposed to question him while he was unconscious?"Ryan is too d
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1926
The Drakes Dominion Order led the three major sects in the Southwest. It was considerably stronger than the Embersteel Order and the Frostwing Sect.Kayson could not afford to offend such a large sect. After all, Dusthaven Village relied on their protection to survive. "Mr. Zaeske, I'll be blunt. The guy you saved, we want him!" Yonah said with his head raised. In an imposing manner, he declared, "As long as you hand him over to us, you'll be a friend of the Drakes Dominion Order!""I …" Kayson looked contemplative. His initial intention to make a quick profit through Ryan had unexpectedly attracted many powerful forces. Now that the Drakes Dominion Order had spoken up, he lacked both reason and courage to refuse."Yonah, we all have the same goal here. Don't you think claiming it all for yourself is inappropriate?" Right then, Bran Kingsley from the Frostwing Sect chimed in."Why? You have a problem with that?" Yonah narrowed his eyes, his gaze hostile. "It isn't just me
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1927
It was human nature to prioritize one's own well-being.Kayson knew he couldn't afford to offend either side and decided that getting a scapegoat to bear the blame was for the best. That way, he could free himself from the burden of the outcome. "Hmm?" Dustin frowned when Kayson singled him out. What a shrewd old man, quick to take credit and even quicker at deflecting blame. "Hey, you, hand over that guy inside, and I will reward you handsomely." Yonah turned his attention to Dustin, his tone authoritative. "Do I know you?" Dustin replied calmly."I'm Yonah, the second disciple of the Drakes Dominion Order."He continued proudly, "As long as you cooperate and hand over the guy without a fuss, the Drakes Dominion Order will always have your back." "And if I refuse?" Dustin countered."Refuse? Hmph!" Yonah snorted. "If you don't hand him over, that would be a direct challenge against us. Can you bear the consequences?" Anyone foolish enough to challenge the Drakes Domin
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1928
"Jackson, you're mine." At the same time, Bran drew his sword, blocking Jackson's path. They were equally skilled and would be evenly matched in battle. Despite Jackson's desire to intervene, he lacked the strength to confront the united might of the two major sects. He could only stand by helplessly as the disciples of the Drakes Dominion Order launched their assault on Dustin.Just when it seemed like Dustin was at a disadvantage, something unexpected happened. Two distinct, crisp slapping sounds echoed through the air.The disciples who had approached Dustin were sent flying with just a single slap each. They landed heavily, struggling to rise to their feet. The entire sequence unfolded so quickly that no one had a chance to react."What?" Jackson was stunned, showing a look of astonishment. The disciples of the Drakes Dominion Order were considered the elite. They weren't supposed to be defeated by any ordinary martial artist. Since Dustin had subdued the two disci
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Chapter 2455
Austin smiled brightly as he ushered Jovian into the meeting room with surprising enthusiasm.Jovian looked confused and somewhat unprepared. Before entering, he had already imagined many possible scenarios for their meeting. He had mentally prepared for a range of reactions from Austin—whether he would be ignored, faced with cold indifference, or dealt with arrogance. He was ready for any of those. After all, the rumors about Austin painted him as a "hellraiser" who did whatever he pleased.But, to his surprise, Austin didn't give him any trouble at all. Instead, he was giving him a warm reception, which left him utterly confused.Something felt off. He couldn't make sense of Austin's sudden warmth, and he had no idea what game he was playing."Bring the tea!" After inviting Jovian to sit, Austin gestured for the attendant to serve the tea. The drink was a rare specialty from West Lucozia, a premium elixir tea not sold to the public but reserved for high-ranking officials. Its
Chapter 2454
After stepping into the castle, Boston felt a knot in his stomach. He had been here before, but only for official matters.He was always escorted by guards or attendants, but this time, Austin himself had led him inside. Boston felt both honored and somewhat overwhelmed. Since when had he earned such treatment?Austin had brushed off higher-ranking officials, so why was he showing him so much attention? Was it because his shiny bald head made him stand out? He had no answers, only a growing curiosity as he followed Austin into the meeting room. "Sit." After Austin sat at the head of the table, he raised his hand and gestured for Boston to do the same."No… no need. I'll just stand." Boston smiled awkwardly."Just sit down. Why are you so nervous? I won't bite," Austin said in a dismissive tone. "Y-Yes, Your Highness." Boston didn't dare refuse again and obediently took a seat. He was six feet three inches tall, yet he looked like a startled rabbit. He sat up straight and didn't
Chapter 2453
When the castle's gate swung open, every eye turned toward the entrance. Under the watchful gaze of the crowd, Austin strode out with his two guards. His posture exuded confidence and authority."Your Highness!"The gathered officials instantly rushed forward to greet him. Grins spread across their faces as if they couldn't wait to please him. Whether it was Huxley, Percival, or Warrick, all wore the same ingratiating expression.After all, Austin was the infamous hellraiser. Though he had reined himself over the past two years, his past reputation still loomed over them.At least Rufus could be reasoned with. But Austin? He was a wild card—utterly unpredictable, like a ticking time bomb. Every last one of them had suffered his wrath before.Percival approached with a flattering smile. "Your Highness, you finally come out. I have something important to discuss with you. If you'd be so kind as to listen—"Before he could finish his sentence, he was dismissed by Austin, who found h
Chapter 2452
"Get lost! I'm not in the mood for anything right now. If you want to eat, go on your own." Warrick snapped, looking annoyed."I'm not going either," Percival refused flatly. "I'm on a health regimen these days—only tea, no alcohol.""Fine. If you're going to wait, then keep waiting. I won't be sticking around." Huxley forced a smile and acted like he was about to leave.But as he turned, he almost bumped into Boston, who was approaching from the other direction."Sorry, Sir Thatcher! I hope I didn't startle you." Since he was surrounded by so many high-ranking officials, Boston was already on edge. He had momentarily spaced out and almost caused a mishap by running into Huxley, which left him flustered and a bit tongue-tied.Unlike the other generals, Boston didn't come from an influential background or have any powerful connections. He had worked his way up from the bottom, and the last thing he wanted was to offend Huxley and risk losing everything he had fought so hard for.
Chapter 2451
After parting ways with Boston, Jovian checked into a nearby hotel to await the good news. Boston wasted no time. After changing into a fresh set of clothes, he headed to the castle to deliver a letter of introduction. But when he arrived, he was stunned by what he saw.The gates of the West Lucozian monarchy had already gathered quite a few people, and among them were several figures he immediately recognized. These included Huxley Thatcher, the Commander of the Militia; Warrick Prescott, the Major General of the State Guard; and Percival Wentworth, the Chancellor of the National Academy.These three were first-ranking officials. In West Lucozia, they were nothing short of kingmakers who wielded immense power and influence. Warrick, in particular, was two ranks above Boston. Hence, he felt the need to be cautious in his presence and was eager not to make a bad impression.Alongside these three prominent figures, several second- and third-ranking officials also stood in line at
Chapter 2450
The following morning, Jovian stood at the entrance of West Lucozia Airport, wearing a sharp suit.Before the trip, he had contacted his comrade with whom he had fought side by side in the military. After earning military merit and with the Ballard family's influence, he was fortunate enough to stay in Oakvale and secure a decent position.His comrade, on the other hand, had moved to West Lucozia to carve out a life for himself. Years of hard work had paid off—he was now a third-rank general with considerable power, influence, and a strong network of connections. Jovian's meeting with the Prince of West Lucozia would depend entirely on his comrade's connections.Just then, the roar of an engine cut through the air as a military jeep pulled up beside him. The window rolled down, and the first thing that came into view was a bald head gleaming in the sunlight like a lightbulb. The glare nearly blinded him.Under that shiny dome was a face that looked ordinary at first glance. But w
Chapter 2449
"Grandfather, I understand why you sent Uncle Jonathan and Uncle Jensen to the Spanner and Fallon families to gather information," Natasha began. "But West Lucozia is thousands of miles away."She shook her head slightly. "They've always stayed out of the government's political matters. Sending Uncle Jovian there wouldn't achieve anything. He'd likely just be turned away." Oakvale and West Lucozia were worlds apart. The fight for the Oakvale throne didn't really affect the West Lucozian monarchy. Both sides had long adhered to an unspoken agreement to avoid meddling in each other's affairs."I know, but it'll be different this time. The royal throne is at stake, and every faction will do whatever it takes to secure West Lucozia's support. If the West Lucozian monarchy picks a side, the balance we've maintained for years will collapse. That's why I need to be ready for whatever happens," Simon replied.It would be best if the West Lucozian monarchy stayed out of the political strug
Chapter 2448
At the Ballard estate, Dustin was warmly welcomed to stay after dinner. This was the first time Natasha had brought her boyfriend home, so the Ballards made a big deal of it.Simon personally accompanied the young couple and invited them to the study to chat over tea. With his sharp eye, Simon could tell Dustin was no ordinary martial artist. His manners, speech, and broad knowledge set him apart from most people."Dustin, I fully support your relationship with Natasha. Your background or status doesn't matter. What matters most is that you two are happy together." Simon paused and said earnestly, "I want you to understand that she's been pampered all her life and hasn't faced much hardship. Now that she's with you, I hope you'll take good care of her.""Don't worry, Mr. Ballard. I would never let her down," Dustin replied sincerely.Though they had known each other for some time and hadn't yet taken their relationship to the next level, they had already made their feelings clear
Chapter 2447
After hearing Nathaniel's words, Tristan's expression darkened. His brow furrowed as he sank into deep thought.It seemed he had underestimated the situation. He had assumed it was just a simple rivalry between brothers; he hadn't anticipated Seamus seizing the chance to further his own agenda.Seamus already wielded considerable influence. Under the guise of supporting Matthias' ascension to the throne, he had been forming alliances and recruiting talents. His influence had grown to rival the royal family's.If Seamus really supported Matthias' ascension, he'd overshadow the king, and no one would be able to stop him. The worst-case scenario would be Seamus using Matthias as a puppet to overthrow the House of Linsor."Nathaniel, is everything you said true?" Tristan frowned."Absolutely. Every word," Nathaniel replied solemnly. "Of course, if you don't believe me, you can send someone to investigate.""I believe you. But… taking down Seamus won't be easy. Do you have a plan?" Tr
