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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
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1929
Yonah's sword quivered, emitting a faint buzzing sound. Its sharp blade remained trapped between Dustin's fingers, and no matter how much Yonah forced it to move, it didn't budge. "What? He actually blocked it?" Everyone was shocked by the scene before them. No one expected Dustin to have the ability to fend off a deadly attack with his bare hands. Just how formidable was he?"How … how is this possible?" Yonah's expression underwent a dramatic shift, displaying evident unease. Even though he hadn't unleashed his full strength, he had exerted 70% of his power. Ordinary divine-level martial artists wouldn't stand a chance against his assault. He had never met anyone like Dustin who could neutralize his attack with just two fingers. "Is this the only move he has?" A ponytailed girl from the Frostwing Sect frowned, her expression grim. Earlier at the inn's dining hall, Dustin had similarly used two fingers to clamp down on her sword, dealing her a considerable blow. It was
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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
Chapter 2521
Austin's expression also turned serious as he saw the doubt in Dustin's eyes. He knew Dustin wouldn't worry over nothing.There were many strange beings in Streuqua, including vampires, werewolves, and the like. These supernatural species were notoriously hard to kill. Even after being decapitated, they weren't necessarily dead.Austin wasn't sure if Poseidon had that kind of ability. After all, the Hall of Gods and its so-called royal gods were still a mystery to most people in West Lucozia.To play it safe, they needed to recover Poisedon's head for their own peace of mind.Out on the water, Jaxon led a team of soldiers and ship crews to comb the sea in search of Poisedon's severed head.At the docks, all eyes turned to Warrick, Mulder, and the others. They had been tied up and were now being dragged before Dustin and Austin one by one.Warrick looked pale, but there was a certain defiance in his eyes. He knew his fate was sealed. After Dustin killed Poseidon, Warrick knew his
