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An Understated Dominance Chapter 1977
"A treasure trove? Where?" Everyone became excited upon hearing that.They entered the oasis just to find treasures. However, not only did they find nothing, but many had lost their lives over it.Thus, they felt very excited upon hearing that there was a place with treasures."Actually, I planned to explore the treasure trove after backup arrives." Sophia seemed reluctant."Sophia, time waits for no one. By the time the elite members of your sect come, there's a chance that someone has already discovered the treasure trove!" Garrett felt anxious.They finally had a chance to obtain treasures. Thus, they naturally didn't want to miss out on it."That's right. We're in the same boat right now. Why don't you tell the truth so that we can look for the treasure together? "We can split it among ourselves once we find it. Deal?" the short-haired woman added."I can tell you, but we have to set some ground rules. Harmony Sect is the one that found the treasure trove. "If you find a
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1978
"What's happening?" Grace quickly noticed Dustin's abnormal behavior."The Celestial Eye has detected something," Dustin replied in a lowered voice."Hmm?" Grace's eyes lit up and her heart was in her throat. "Could it be the Dracan essence?""I'm not sure." Dustin shook his head lightly. While it was true that the Celestial Eye could sense other treasure nearby, it couldn't accurately tell what the treasure was. Hence, he couldn't be certain if the hidden object near the lake was Dracan essence. The only thing that he was sure of was that the treasure was extraordinary as there was a huge reaction from the Celestial Eye."Whatever it may be, I have to go check it out myself. Later, we'll play by ear and please pay attention to even the smallest detail," Grace said seriously. If the Dracan essence was really hidden nearby, she'd do anything to get her hands on it."Got it." Dustin nodded and didn't say too much. Instead, he paid extra attention to the Celestial Eye's reactio
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1979
No one knew that the lake would be filled with water again when morning came and the palatial building was completely hidden beneath. Sophia didn't dive into the lake as she couldn't determine what was in the water."Are you sure that there is treasure hidden at the bottom of the lake?" Aidan asked again."It's true! I swear!" Sophia appeared very certain."Alright, we'll wait here then. We'll see what is really at the bottom of the lake tonight." Aidan nodded."Mr. Ridge, why do we have to wait till nightfall? Isn't it better to just explore the lake now?" Garrett suggested. Everyone knew that the monsters were most active at night. It might appear quiet and peaceful now, however, there might be many different monsters appearing by the lake at night. It'd be dangerous then."The lake is deep and we can't see the bottom. If you go in now, you can't even see where you're going. How are you going to search for the treasure?" Aidan commented casually."Mr. Ridge, to be honest, m
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1980
As Dozer dove in, the rolling waves quieted down slowly. Everyone stood and waited quietly at the shore, each lost in their own thoughts. It was a very quiet lake with emerald water. The visibility in the lake was very low as no fish were seen. It was obvious that it was a little abnormal.Time ticked by slowly and very soon, five minutes had passed. The surface of the lake remained calm and there was no movement under the surface as well. The trio that dove in had disappeared completely and they made no waves."It's been five minutes since they dove in, right? Why aren't they surfacing yet? Could there have been an accident?""Likely impossible. If there was any monster in the lake, they must have put up a fight with it. However, there isn't any sign of struggle. It's enough to prove that they're alright.""An undercurrent could have pulled them under and drowned them?"Looking at the calm surface of the lake, everyone started discussing and guessing. Martial artists might
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1981
Everything occurred in a flash, from the appearance of the mutant piranha to the swallowing of a Black Scorpion Squad member, and then the disappearance of the mutant piranha. It was so fast that no one could wrap their head around the incident.The Black Scorpion Squad member that was swallowed disappeared before he could shout for help. All that was left were splashes on the lake's surface as blood gurgled up rapidly from below."W-What?" Dozer and the other member were shocked beyond words. Both of them widened their eyes in terror and looked around with a frightened expression. What just happened? Where did their team member go? Why was there blood gurgling up from below?"Why are you two still there? Swim for your life!" Recovering from his shock, Garrett yelled loudly."Yes… save ourselves!" Dozer and the other team member suddenly came to their senses. They started flailing their arms and legs around as they swam toward the shore as fast as they could without a second
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1982
Garrett was dumbfounded. Staring at the densely packed mutant piranhas, his fury was replaced by sheer horror. Who would have thought that human-eating monstrous creatures would be hiding in the seemingly calm lake? Had he known earlier, he never would have allowed his team to dive into the waters. "There's danger lurking everywhere!" Sophia feigned a sigh.In fact, she already knew about the mutant piranhas when she saw them tearing apart and devouring two massive mutant wolves the previous night. She didn't warn the others of the danger to prioritize her chances of securing valuable treasure. After all, the more casualties there were, the fewer individuals she would have to divide the treasures with."Diving in with so many mutant piranhas around is impossible. We'll wait for the tide to recede at night," Grace commented, instructing her guards to set up camp nearby.Given the unusual behavior of the Celestial Eye, there was a strong possibility that the Dracan essence was h
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1983
"Despicable?" Bran shook his head as he chuckled."Jackson, you're the lead disciple of the Embersteel Order. I'm really disappointed to hear you say something like that." He was gratified to see Jackson deflated. "Bran, you know the saying—first come, first served. We've staked our claim here. You should go somewhere else." Sophia asserted.It would become increasingly disadvantageous for her if more people found out about the treasures beneath the lake. If she couldn't outcompete them or was beaten to it, then all her efforts would be in vain."Oh? It's Sophia from Harmony Sect. It's been two years since we last met, and you've grown even more beautiful." Bran grinned. "Thank you for the compliment, Bran," Sophia replied with a faint smile. "Bran, Harmony Sect discovered this place first. Can you let us have it?""Sophia, it's not that I don't want to, but this is a mission given to us by our sect. I have no choice." Bran suddenly changed the subject, "But of course, i
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1984
"Are you threatening me?" Grace asked calmly."You could consider it... a friendly advice." Bran's chuckle carried a meaningful tone. "Ms. Linsor, you're an intelligent woman. I'm sure you understand the right decision to make in this situation."In the Southwest, numerous factions existed, but only three major sects held supreme authority. Among them, the Drakes Dominion Order was universally acknowledged as the most powerful, followed by the Frostwing Sect, and then the Embersteel Order.The Frostwing Sect was already dominating the region with their influence, adding to that their alliance with the Drakes Dominion Order, their combined strength was unstoppable. Who would dare confront them head-on in the entirety of Southwest?"Sorry, but I'm afraid you'll have to be disappointed. My stance remains the same. We either share it all or there's nothing else to talk about." Grace was unfazed. "Hmm?" Bran's face darkened, and he spoke sternly, "You bitch! I'm being kind he
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Chapter 2462
"Gentlemen, I've done my part and had my tea already. I still have things to take care of, so I'll leave now. Farewell!" Jovian said.When no one responded, he didn't say another word. He nodded respectfully, stood up, and exited the room.When the door opened, Warrick's face darkened, and his hand instinctively moved toward the hilt of his sword. But before he could act, Huxley gently touched his arm and shook his head.Jovian noticed something was off and paused at the doorway before stepping out.Boston, who was standing by the door, let out a quiet sigh of relief as he watched Jovian leave without a scratch. His relief was short-lived, though, when he saw the grim expressions on the faces of the three men inside.It was clear that the meeting hadn't gone well. Fortunately, nothing too serious had happened. Otherwise, Boston would have much explaining to do to both sides."Why did you stop me? That arrogant brat clearly doesn't respect us. He'll think we're pushovers if we don
Chapter 2461
"Gentlemen, you certainly have a refined sense of humor." Jovian took another sip of tea. "But I'm not exactly a brave man. I startle easily, so I'd appreciate it if you kept the jokes to a minimum.""Of course." Huxley smiled and nodded. "Just some lighthearted banter to break the ice. If we've offended you, I apologize on behalf of Mr. Prescott. Please don't take it to heart."Jovian's expression eased slightly at that.Since he had the nerve to attend this trap-laden dinner, he wasn't afraid of a few threats. He wouldn't mind sharing information with them if they were willing to have a proper conversation.But they had tried to strong-arm him. Their words were laced with veiled threats and demands as if he were someone they could push around.Naturally, that didn't sit well with him. He just didn't let it show—for now."There's no need for an apology. If there's nothing else, I'll be on my way," Jovian said flatly. He stood to leave and felt that continuing this conversation w
Chapter 2460
"Well… some things are better left unsaid, but I believe you understand what I'm getting at," Percival said gravely."I'm afraid I don't, Mr. Wentworth. You'll have to forgive my ignorance." Jovian's tone was measured and composed."You…" Percival's expression darkened.Judging by Jovian's demeanor when he first arrived, Percival had assumed that he was someone who knew how to read between the lines. Yet now, he was feigning ignorance, making it clear that he wasn't taking Percival seriously."Enough, Mr. Wentworth. Let me handle this."Warrick took over the conversation and got straight to the point. "Jovian, right? Let's not waste time. We know why you're here. The only question is—what have you found out?""And what kind of information are you referring to, Sir Prescott?" Jovian asked.Warrick slammed a palm onto the table, and his face darkened. "Don't play dumb with me, brat. I don't have time for games. If you don't start talking, don't blame me if I stop showing the Balla
Chapter 2459
After making up his mind, Jovian no longer hesitated. He instructed the driver to make a U-turn and head straight to the meeting place.The meeting location was in a restaurant not far from the castle. It was only a ten-minute drive from where they had turned back.When Jovian and Boston walked inside, they found the place nearly empty. There were no guests in sight, just a few receptionists. It looked like the restaurant had been cleared out just for them."Sir, please follow me. Sir Prescott is waiting for you upstairs," the restaurant owner personally greeted them and led them to a private room on the second floor.Warrick, Huxley, and Percival were leisurely drinking tea inside the room. The three chatted and laughed, but their conversation stopped the moment Jovian and Boston entered. All three turned their attention to Jovian.They were quite curious about him. He had been privately invited by Austin and even stayed for dinner at the castle. It was a privilege none of them h
Chapter 2458
"An outsider? Who is it?" Percival asked urgently. "Could it be that assistant general who came in at noon?"Warrick frowned. "I've looked into that man. No background, no connections—just an old hand in the military. Been around forever, knows the ropes, but has no real pull.""It's not him—it's someone connected to him." Huxley lowered his voice. "Remember what Sir Austin said at noon? When he summoned that assistant general, he specifically mentioned the Ballard family.""The Ballard family?" Percival looked surprised. "You mean the Ballards from Oakvale? Are you saying they've already beaten us to it and met with the prince?""The prince hasn't met with them, but according to my intel, this man, Jovian Ballard, spent two hours chatting with Sir Austin today. They talked and laughed like old acquaintances. Sir Austin even invited him to stay for dinner at the castle." Huxley's face darkened. He continued, "Look, the Ballards sent someone at a time like this. They're obviously
Chapter 2457
After a brief discussion in the meeting room, Austin invited Jovian to tour the West Lucozia castle.The castle was enormous, equipped with imaginable facilities. Unfamiliar visitors could easily get lost in its vastness.Jovian prided himself on being well-traveled, yet as he toured the castle, even he couldn't hide his astonishment. Unlike the ostentatious displays of wealth seen in luxurious estates, this castle could only be described as grand, majestic, and awe-inspiring. Everything in his line of sight conveyed a sense of grandeur and majesty.What stunned Jovian the most was the House of Heroes inside the West Lucozia castle. The structure was nine stories high and looked like an ancient monument.The walls were lined with memorials of fallen soldiers. The place was packed with thousands of tablets, each engraved with the hero's name and a detailed account of their life stories for future generations to honor and remember.The Ballard family had a family tree that record
Chapter 2456
"Your Highness! Please mind your words," Jovian quickly cautioned. He glanced around nervously, as if afraid someone might be eavesdropping.Speculating on Valon's fate in private was an act of grave disrespect. If someone with a hidden agenda spread this information, a ruined reputation would be the least of their concerns—what came after would be far worse."Relax, Mr. Jovian. We're in West Lucozia, not Oakvale. Here, we can say whatever we want without worry." Austin smiled faintly, showing no concern.These were well-known facts, so what was the harm in saying them out loud? Keeping quiet wouldn't change a thing, anyway. What a joke."Ahem… perhaps I was overthinking it." Jovian let out an awkward chuckle. He knew Austin wasn't wrong, but his cautious nature kept him from discussing Valon's affairs too openly."Honestly, a lot of people have been showing up in West Lucozia lately. There's a whole group standing outside right now, and they're all here for the same reason as you
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
