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An Understated Dominance Chapter 2203
Everyone was stunned as they watched Brandon suddenly collapse to the ground. Their eyes widened in disbelief, and their mouths hung agape.Nobody had anticipated Brandon, a renowned talent of the Celestial Alliance's top ten, to be defeated by an unknown opponent.With his reputation, he should have been dominating Group C. They couldn't understand how he could be defeated so quickly.The spectators began questioning Brandon's ability and wondered if Carter was stronger than him."It's over! We're screwed!""Dammit! What's Brandon doing? How can he lose to a nobody? What a useless bastard!""The top ten talents of the Celestial Alliance? Bullshit!""Fuck you, Brandon! You've really messed me up this time!""Shit! I've lost all my celestial stones!"After a moment of silence, the venue erupted into a chorus of sorrowful cries and frustrated curses.Brandon's defeat dealt a heavy blow to the gamblers who had placed their bets earlier. They faced devastating losses, not just fo
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2204
Crystal frowned as she met Miles's intense gaze. "Miles, you should call it quits. If you continue to gamble, it'll only lead you deeper into trouble."Gamblers often found themselves trapped in a cycle of addiction, and they were never content with their winnings.Their insatiable desire for more drove them to risk everything. Hence, it often led them to stray from the right path.At that moment, he appeared to be showing signs of addiction. If left unchecked, it could lead to disaster."Just one more bet, Crystal. I promise. If I win this time, I'll quit for good," Miles pleaded earnestly."Yes, I'm with him. I've even wagered my sword. I need to win it back," Ruby chimed in.Their hopeful eyes bore into Crystal's."Have you considered the consequences if you lose?" she countered."It won't happen, I swear. I'll be cautious this time and only bet when I'm confident. I won't lose again," Miles assured."Yeah, we were led astray before. If we had trusted our instincts, we'd be
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2205
Under the night sky of Sacred Wrym Summit, Abigail, well-heeled and in high spirits, had booked the second floor of Heighten Tavern for a celebratory feast.The attendees were Dustin and his companions.After all, making a fortune through unscrupulous means wasn't that honorable. So, it was crucial to keep a low profile."Sir, I'm in a great mood today. We're not leaving until we're all plastered!" Abigail poured the wine and clinked glasses with Dustin before downing it in one gulp.He smiled in response and took a sip."Come on, everyone. Dig in and enjoy! Don't be shy about it." She warmly encouraged Crystal and the others after downing her drink.Dalen smiled and asked, "Ms. Robinson, that smile of yours tells a story. I bet today was a profitable day, right?""Just a small haul and nothing too extravagant," she replied modestly."Ms. Robinson, it seems luck is always on your side. You always manage to turn the tide at the critical moment," Crystal remarked. Her tone seemed
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2206
"Troublemaker! I know you're in there, so come out and face the music!"The loud shout echoed through the tavern again. It sent waves of unease rippling through the patrons.Miles and the others instinctively turned their gaze toward Abigail.To them, she was the only one who fit the bill of a troublemaker. But who would dare to be so bold as to challenge the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order so openly?"Everyone, please continue enjoying your meal. I'll take care of this." Abigail smiled as she dabbed her mouth with a napkin. Then, she rose from her seat and descended the stairs.Miles and the others exchanged glances and hurried to the window to see what was happening outside.On the street, a burly man surrounded by a gang of 20 to 30 men was shouting threats. They wielded their weapons menacingly as if they were ready for action."Hey, doesn't that man look familiar?" Ruby arched her eyebrow as she recognized the burly man. She had seen him at the Combat Tournament, b
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2207
"Don't worry, Luke. Since you hired us, consider your troubles taken care of. We're here to help," one of the Bovens twins reassured him."That's right. You just sit back and watch how we deal with this troublemaker," the other chimed in.The twins bantered back and forth confidently as if victory was already in their bag.Luke glared at Abigail and shouted, "Hey, troublemaker! Did you hear that? If you're wise, surrender now. Otherwise, today will be your last.""Enough with the chatter. Let's get this over with. I've got dinner waiting upstairs," she retorted impatiently."Arrogant fool!""Get ready to face our wrath!"Enraged by her words, the twins quickly grabbed their weapons and charged forward.Their choice of weapons was rather peculiar. One brandished a spear, while the other wielded an iron abacus.The iron abacus beads were released with a flick of the wrist. They shot out like hidden weapons as it rained down on Abigail.Simultaneously, the spear lunged forward l
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2208
"Listen here, troublemaker! Don't you dare get cocky! Do you think you can look down on us? Well, mark my words, this time next year, people will gather to remember your death!""Hmph! We've been around the block in this martial world for years. Naturally, we've seen it all. Yet, a mere troublemaker like you strut around like you own the place. You've got no clue what you're up against!""If you know what's good for you, drop to your knees and beg for mercy, or else… we'll kill you!"The Greenfield Gang was shouting and yelling at her. They were all filled with righteous anger. Abigail's contemptuous words had enraged them. Though the title of Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order might sound imposing, the Greenfield Gang was ruthless. They had stared death in the face and lived to tell the tale, so they were fearless in the face of danger.But their confidence mainly stemmed from her young age. They doubted that someone barely 18 or 19 could have reached such a high level of
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2209
"You're overestimating your abilities!"Abigail sneered as she watched Luke and his group charging at her. Without a second thought, she whipped out a fist-sized iron orb and hurled it their way.The orb belonged to the Dawson Clan's collection of eight hidden weapons, known as the Phantom Blooms.There were 888 poisoned needles packed inside the iron orb. Each needle could penetrate an energy armor.Should any martial artist below the grandmaster level be struck by these poisoned needles, they would instantly be immobilized.When the Dawson Clan lost their bet, Abigail acquired this weapon. Finally, she had the opportunity to put it to use.The moment the Phantom Blooms orb was thrown, it emitted a faint hum. It signaled the activation of its mechanisms.In an instant, the 888 poisoned needles were primed and poised for release."Hah! Do you think a puny hidden weapon can harm us? Dream on!"When Abigail threw the iron orb, Luke didn't hesitate and raised his sword to jab it.
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2210
Outside the tavern, the martial arts experts led by Luke lay sprawled on the ground. Many were either dead or wounded.Amidst the aftermath, only Abigail stood unscathed.The effectiveness of the Phantom Blooms had surpassed her expectations. She even contemplated further trades with the Dawson Clan for additional hidden weapons.After all, traded weapons often held unexpected surprises.Luke, sprawling on the ground, struggled to speak. "Troublemaker! You… you're despicable!"His resilience was remarkable despite being pierced by countless poisoned needles."You're still alive?" Abigail raised an eyebrow and was surprised that he survived.He was just three feet away when the Phantom Blooms unleashed its barrage of poisoned needles. At that range, he should have been gravely injured.For anyone else, it would have likely been a fatal blow. Yet, despite his severe injuries and immobility, Luke displayed astonishing resilience."Without your cowardly ambush with hidden weapons,
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Chapter 2472
Night had fallen. Austin sat in the meeting room, quietly reading a book as he waited for the results of the investigation.After successfully turning Percival against his allies, it was only a matter of time before they uncovered solid evidence of Warrick and Huxley's crimes.For years, the castle had turned a blind eye to their shady dealings. After all, corruption among officials was nothing new.But this time was different. The two had secretly orchestrated Jovian's murder, a direct challenge to the authority and dignity of the royal family. Such defiance couldn't be ignored. If Austin didn't set an example, others would surely follow."Your Highness!"Axel burst into the meeting room, panting heavily. He had clearly run the whole way to avoid any delay.Austin set his book aside and asked calmly, "Well? How did it go?""Your Highness, we've completely shut down all of Warrick and Huxley's illicit operations. Every hidden network they had built over the years has also been d
Chapter 2471
At that moment, Percival truly panicked. Earlier, he had only worried about being implicated. But now, faced with such a serious accusation, he was completely caught off guard."Hmph! The evidence is irrefutable, and you still dare deny it? Do you want me to torture the truth out of you?" Austin barked."Your Highness, I'm innocent!" Percival was so terrified he was on the verge of tears. He raised his hand and swore, "If I had anything to do with Jovian's death, may I be damned for eternity.""If swearing oaths proved innocence, we wouldn't need an enforcement team," Austin said coldly. "Out of respect for your years of service to West Lucozia, I'll give you a chance to come clean and receive a lighter sentence. Tell the truth now, or I'll throw you into Grimhold Keep."At the mention of Grimhold Keep, Percival began to shake uncontrollably. Tears and snot ran down his face as he wailed, "Your Highness, I swear I didn't do anything. Who's the bastard making up these accusations?
Chapter 2470
Ten minutes later, Warrick was escorted out of Room A1 again.Axel's demeanor had completely changed since their first meeting, and he had become unusually warm."Sir Prescott, Lord Austin has concluded the investigation. It turns out this matter has nothing to do with you. We made a mistake earlier, and I apologize for any offense caused." He smiled apologetically and spoke with a humble tone."Hm?" Seeing the fawning expression on Axel's face, Warrick raised an eyebrow and looked surprised. Just moments ago, the two sides had been at each other's throats. What had caused such a sudden change?"Did you really investigate it thoroughly?" Warrick asked tentatively."Of course! According to our findings, Jovian's disappearance was the result of a personal vendetta from his enemies in Oakvale," Axel said with a straight face.He continued, "He was a tyrant and always stirring up trouble everywhere he went. He got what was coming to him. Lord Austin only launched the investigation
Chapter 2469
"After you, Sir Prescott." With one hand resting on the hilt of his sword, Axel's other hand gestured toward the door."Hmph!" Warrick shot a cold glance at Axel's subtle movement and then turned to leave the meeting room.Even if Austin had his suspicions, Warrick knew he couldn't do anything to him without concrete evidence.Axel escorted Warrick back to Room A1. After closing the door, he went to Room A2 and led Huxley to the meeting room."Your Highness, it is my privilege to stand before you." Huxley entered the meeting room with a respectful salute."Mr. Thatcher, please take a seat." Austin's face remained neutral as he gestured for Huxley to sit, then motioned for Axel to pour him a cup of tea."Do you know why I've summoned you here today?" Austin spoke calmly, and his words carried the same probing tone as earlier."Is it about Jovian's disappearance?" Huxley asked in return."Oh? It seems you're quick on the uptake." Austin raised an eyebrow. "In that case, g
Chapter 2468
The enforcement team worked with remarkable efficiency. Within an hour, Huxley, Warrick, and Percival had been brought back to the castle.Per Austin's instructions, Axel made sure the three met briefly upon arrival, though they were given no opportunity to speak to one another. Afterward, they were taken to separate rooms and were guarded individually.Due to their status, the enforcement team treated them with respect, offering them tea and wine. However, they weren't allowed to leave their rooms and had to wait for Austin to summon them.Warrick was confined to Room A1, Huxley to Room A2, and Percival to Room A3. Their rooms were right next to each other, separated only by thin walls. If they stepped out, they would see one another, but none of them knew how close they were.This, of course, was all part of Austin's plan. He knew that extracting the truth from these three cunning foxes would require unconventional tactics.…Inside Room A1, Warrick sat calmly, sipping his te
Chapter 2467
"Hm?"Even Warrick frowned at the news.The royal enforcement team was rarely mobilized. When they did, it was always for something monumental. The question was, did a minor figure like Jovian Ballard really warrant such attention from Austin?"Mr. Thatcher, are you sure the royal enforcement team has been mobilized? And it's because of Jovian?" Warrick asked skeptically."Of course I'm sure," Huxley replied with a grave expression. "I've just received orders from above. The enforcement team captain will be taking over my duties temporarily. From now on, they'll have full control over the city's defense and investigative operations.""That's strange. Why would Lord Austin go to such lengths for someone so insignificant?" Warrick was confused, his brow furrowing.According to his intel, this was the first time Jovian and Austin had even met. Even if they had crossed paths before, it shouldn't have been enough to justify deploying the enforcement team.It seemed Warrick had undere
Chapter 2466
The next morning, after breakfast at the West Lucozian castle, Austin tried calling Jovian. However, his calls went unanswered. After several attempts, he still couldn't get through."Huh?" Austin was puzzled. They had made plans the previous day to head to Oakvale that day. Why was Jovian suddenly unreachable? Had he stood Austin up?After thinking it over, he found that unlikely. He and Jovian had gotten along well and even called each other brothers. On top of that, they had promised to travel together and watch out for one another.If Jovian had an urgent matter that required him to leave West Lucozia, he would have at least given Austin a heads-up. Jovian wouldn't just disappear without a word."Could something have happened to him?" Austin's unease grew. He quickly summoned his trusted aide. "Go find out where Jovian is. Report back to me as soon as you have any information.""Yes, Your Highness," the aide replied before hurrying off.Austin poured himself a cup of tea
Chapter 2465
A dull sound echoed through the air.Jovian's body shuddered. Blood streamed from his eyes, ears, and nose as he crumpled to the ground, lifeless. He was dead. After fighting to his last breath, he had chosen the only honorable way out.The scene had left even the assassins, who were no strangers to bloodshed, momentarily stunned. Taking one's own life so decisively wasn't something just anyone could do. Even the lowest of creatures had the instinct to cling to life, let alone a human being."This guy… He's ruthless," Ronan muttered, and his face darkened.Warrick had given strict orders to capture Jovian alive, but now he was dead. Now, Ronan had no way to deliver. If he had known it would come to this, he would have personally intervened to kill Jovian first."What now, boss?" one of the assassins asked."Clean up the scene," Ronan ordered. "I'll take the body back myself." With that, he hoisted Jovian's body onto his shoulder, tossed it into the vehicle, and drove off.…W
Chapter 2464
The sounds of battle echoed under the streetlights. Shouts of pain mixed with the clash of weapons could be heard. Five figures were locked in a deadly struggle, and blood splattered across the ground.The fight raged for nearly half an hour until the noise gradually subsided. The five figures lay motionless in pools of blood.Under the dim glow of the streetlights, three of the black-clad assassins were confirmed dead. One's neck was snapped, another's chest pierced, and the last had bled out from a fatal wound.Jovian and Boston were in no better condition.Boston was soaked in blood. His body was riddled with deep cuts, some so severe they exposed the bone beneath.Jovian wasn't much better. His abdomen and shoulder were slashed. His right arm had been severed, and he was left in a pitiful state.Boston coughed. After taking down the last assassin, he collapsed to the ground. He gasped for air as blood poured from his mouth. His chest and abdomen were torn open, and his orga
