Chapter 1283
Author: Marina Vittori
Brooke ensured the second-floor door was securely locked before heading to the third floor.

The third floor was like a fortress. It was nearly impenetrable, with tough iron doors, security bars, surveillance cameras, and security alarms.

After passing through multiple security bars, he arrived at the dimly lit, messy third floor. The third floor's only tidy and warm room was in the innermost part of the building.

Inside that room lay a frail, pale middle-aged man lying on his bed, unconscious and barely breathing.

Brooke walked over to the man and checked his pulse, then sighed deeply.

"Ten years, and I still can't get you to wake up," he lamented.

"It's a shame I can't cure you despite being a skilled doctor." Brooke shook his head. He retrieved a tablet, and placed it in the man's mouth.

For the past ten years, Brooke had been devoted to Cinna's care, trying various treatments and scouring ancient manuscripts.

Yet all of his efforts had been in vain. All he could do was
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  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1284

    Brooke eyed Dustin to determine if he was telling the truth but could not find any inconsistencies. He asked intently, "Why should I trust you?""Dr. Busch, if I wanted revenge, I'd end both of you by now," Dustin responded. He flicked his finger, and a bolt of energy shot out. It shattered a flower vase on the windowsill with a bang."What?" Brooke's eyes widened, and his expression turned grim. He knew that the ability to manifest his energy meant Dustin was a strong martial artist. Brooke knew he couldn't stop Dustin if he had bad intentions. So, he had to trust Dustin at this point."Dr. Busch, I'm sorry for startling you. Please forgive me," Dustin apologized again."Very well! I believe you now. Unfortunately, you are too late, though," Brooke said. He stepped aside and looked at the bed where Cinna lay. "Cinna has been vegetative for ten years and has not woken up. I have tried many treatments, none have been successful.""Dr. Busch, let me try. I have some divine

  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1285

    "It's not easy, but I can cure Mr. Shaffer," Dustin said earnestly. "And I need your help, too.""Kid, if you can really cure Cinna, I'd sell Harmony Healers in a heartbeat," Brooke sighed. Then he asked, "Why do you think you can do it?"Brooke just met Dustin, so he had to be cautious. He could not make a rash decision since Cinna's life was at stake. "Well, you mentioned that Mr. Shaffer has some residual energy in him. If I remove the energy, would that prove I can heal him?" Dustin asked.Brooke's gaze sharpened. "That energy is very strong, and regular medical skills won't work. Don't make any empty promises."If it were that easy, Brooke would have already gotten rid of it sooner."I can't do it with regular medical skills, but I can with esoteric technique," Dustin explained earnestly. "Dr. Busch, give me half an hour. I'll be able to remove this energy. You'll see."Brooke hesitated, his brows furrowing. He was not sure if he could trust Dustin. Dustin was too you

  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1286

    Dustin gathered his mystical pure energy, gradually flowing it into Cinna's circulatory pathways.Cinna's heart sped up as a sudden surge of true energy clashed against Dustin's pure energy. As their energies collided, Cinna twitched as if he had been electrified.Dustin frowned and directed his pure energy to drain the ethereal soul seal's energy slowly. He couldn't risk overpowering the seal's power in one go. The seal's power was violent, like a beast, ready to devour any intruders. As he continued to drain the seal's energy, he replaced it with his true energy until the seal weakened.As time passed, Dustin continued to channel his true energy into Cinna. His forehead began to sweat, and his face went pale. He was drained and exhausted. Normally, this would have been manageable. But Dustin had to protect Cinna as he drained the seal's power, making it twice as exhausting.Cinna's heartbeat quickened as his face flushed. He perspired when his head emitted a white mist.

  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1287

    When Dustin's finger touched Cinna's chest, he trembled. Blood gushed out of his mouth and nose as his circulatory pathways shattered. His weakened body was in danger, and his life hung on by a thread.The ethereal soul seal immediately crumbled beneath Dustin's finger."Cinna!" Brooke was pale and trembling. He rushed forward to check Cinna's condition. After Brooke was sure Cinna was alive, he regained his composure. "Dustin! I warned you not to be reckless. "Do you know you nearly killed Cinna?" He scolded Dustin relentlessly.Dustin collapsed back on the chair, gasping for breath and sweating profusely. After catching his breath, he said slowly, "The situation was more complicated than I expected. Despite the risks I took, I successfully neutralized Mr. Shaffer's true energy.""Neutralized?" Brooke was taken aback and immediately checked Cinna's pulse. Although his vitals were weak, the violent energy was gone."Is it neutralized? How is that possible?" Brooke was surp

  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1288

    Dustin turned serious and said, "But, it's too soon to say I've saved him. "I have neutralized the true energy inside Mr. Shaffer, but his body has been severely damaged. His eight vital meridians are seriously injured. "He's like a living corpse right now. We must restore his circulatory pathways and rejuvenate his body for him to wake up.""Restoring his circulatory pathways and rejuvenating his body?" Brooke inquired, furrowing his brow. "We would need the legendary sacred medicine Sanctifix, which has been missing for ages. Where can we find it?"In ancient texts, Sanctifix was a medicine that could revitalize people. It could repair damaged circulatory pathways and congenital disabilities. Unfortunately, it was extremely rare. Even Brooke had only heard of it but had never seen it.Out of nowhere, Dustin blurted out, "I've seen the formula for Sanctifix, and I've written it down.""What?" Brooke widened his eyes in shock. "Yo—you know the formula?"Dustin nodded. "M

  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1289

    Brooke's question caught Dustin off guard. What could he not do? He could do Martial arts, medicine, alchemy, occult arts, secret techniques, southern mystic arts, and many others. There was nothing he couldn't do. "Well, I've read many books and have a good basic understanding of things," Dustin replied humbly."A basic understanding?" Brooke raised his brows, looking curious. At a young age, he can manifest energy, a skill of divine-level martial artists. And he called this a basic understanding? The energy trapped in Cinna's body had troubled Brooke for ten years. But yet, Dustin had neutralized it with a touch. And that's just a basic understanding? Dustin knew a top-notch alchemical recipe and could make Sanctifix. This would outshine the best alchemists in Dragonmarsh. And that's also a basic understanding? If all of that were just a basic understanding, everyone else was nothing compared to him. Dustin's modesty was intimidating."Dr. Busch, even though I can brew

  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1290

    Harper couldn't understand why Brooke had shown this secret place to someone he had only met."Well ..." Brooke hesitated, feeling awkward. He couldn't just say that Dustin had barged in.Dustin explained, "I'm here to visit my uncle, Cinna." "That's right, this is Mr. Rhys, Cinna's nephew. It's only natural for him to visit his uncle," Brooke said solemnly."Nephew? Uncle?" Harper looked at Dustin suspiciously. "Grandpa, are you sure he's not lying? Mr. Shaffer has been in a coma for ten years. "And suddenly, his nephew shows up to visit. Don't you think something fishy is going on?""You're overreacting. I trust Mr. Rhys is not a bad man," Brooke said firmly, dismissing her doubts."But—!" Harper was about to say more, but Brooke held his hand to cut her off. "Enough, let's talk about this later. "You said there was a problem downstairs. What happened?""Oh, that bastard, Ziggy Larkspur, is back. He claims that the medicine you prescribed him last time worsens his con

  • An Understated Dominance   Chapter 1291

    "Mr. Larkspur, it's been a while. Why are you so mad? Maybe I can make you some tea to calm your nerves."Brooke, Dustin, and Harper walked down the stairs, noting the chaos in the medical center. Brooke's brow furrowed, but he quickly composed himself."Hey, Dr. Busch, I see you've decided to show up. I thought you were turning into a chicken," Ziggy smirked, crossing his legs."I don't think I did anything to offend you. It isn't the best way to handle things by causing a scene," Brooke calmly replied."I'm here to get medical treatment. Are you saying I'm not welcome as a patient here at Harmony Healers?" Ziggy provoked."If you're here for treatment, I would be delighted to have you. But I'm afraid, Mr. Larkspur, you are not just here for the treatment," Brooke replied."Enough of this; let's talk about my treatment now." Ziggy was unbuttoning his shirt to reveal a festering wound on his abdomen. He pointed at the wound. "Dr. Busch, you promised me your golden salve would h

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  • Chapter 2531

    "This…" Dustin began.He hesitated on purpose and didn't give an immediate answer.Upon seeing him deep in thought, Nathaniel was convinced that Dustin was weighing the pros and cons. He leaned in slightly, his smile widening with anticipation. "You should know how much the Dracan essence means to me," he said. "If I can gather all the essences, it’d be like fate is on my side. My path to the throne would be unstoppable—and when that time comes, your reward will be waiting."As he spoke, his gaze stayed on Dustin as he searched for any sign of hesitation in his expression.Dustin looked up and met his eyes. For a moment, something unreadable flickered in his gaze.He pressed his lips together and spoke slowly. "You're right, Your Highness. But it wasn't easy to find the Dracan essence. I went through quite a few twists and turns. Besides, if I give it to you, it might put me at odds with the other two princes."He paused deliberately and left the rest unsaid. Still, the concern

  • 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

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