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An Understated Dominance Chapter 2255
"What more is there to discuss? Back off! Everyone, just back off!" Brian's voice boomed as he motioned for everyone to retreat.He decided not to return to the Celestial Alliance and confess his wrongdoing. His sole recourse now was to keep Alicia captive and seek sanctuary at the Hall of Gods."Brian, there's no escaping this. Release Alicia and I assure you, I'll find a solution." Fenley's expression grew solemn.He was confident that he could swiftly defeat Brian in a direct confrontation. However, with Alicia held captive, Fenley hesitated and was reluctant to take the risk. If anything were to happen to Alicia, he'd be the one to blame."Brian, it's not too late to repent. Stop making one mistake after another," Alicia pleaded, her voice strained with anguish. "If you stop now and confess willingly, I can plead with my dad to be lenient in his judgment.""Mistakes? Where have I gone wrong?" Brian snarled. "Survival of the fittest is the rule of nature. Everything I've undert
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2256
Just as Alicia was about to be struck down by Brian's deadly palm strike, a silver needle suddenly hit his wrist with precision.The force of the impact caused him to stagger backward several steps. Then, a wave of excruciating pain surged through his arm. His body trembled uncontrollably and left him momentarily incapacitated."Crap!" Brian cursed. He quickly yanked the silver needle out from his wrist, which eased his pain slightly."Alicia, run!" Aurora shouted.Freed from his grasp, Alicia snapped out of her daze and bolted at full speed."Where do you think you're going?" Brian, now recovered from the pain, refused to give up.With a sudden burst of speed, he transformed into a blur and lunged toward her. Even if he was going to die, he was determined to take her down with him."Bastard! How dare you!" Fenley's eyes widened in fury upon seeing that. He immediately propelled himself into the air, then delivered a palm strike toward Brian from above.The air erupted with a t
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2257
Brian was dead. The enforcement team stood indifferent to the scene before them and showed no sympathy for his fate. His headless body slumped to the ground, and blood started to pool around it.Brian was the elite disciple of the Celestia Alliance. But his fate was sealed when he colluded with the Hall of Gods and betrayed the guild. He had even tried to harm Alicia.Given his accumulated crimes, his death was inevitable. Even if Fenley hadn't killed him, the guild would have punished him."Brian got what was coming to him." Aurora grimaced as she looked at his lifeless body and spat on the ground.She had regarded him as a brother and a decent person. Yet, she never anticipated he would turn out to be such a hypocrite and involved in all sorts of misconduct for his own gain.He had even colluded with the Hall of Gods and betrayed the Celestial Alliance. When confronted, he showed no remorse and even tried to hold Alicia hostage.Aurora believed someone like him deserved to di
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2258
"Aurora, bring me the Novem Bloomadol," Alicia said with a knowing glance.Aurora couldn't resist asking, "If you give it to Dr. Rhys, how will you cultivate later?"While others might not know its value, she knew the rarity of the Novem Bloomadol. It was a precious treasure that martial artists could only dream of obtaining to break through to the grandmaster level. Aurora never expected Alicia to part with it willingly."I don't have any use for it anyway. I'm sure Dr. Rhys would put it to good use." Alicia smiled faintly.The higher one's martial aptitude, the better the effects of the Novem Bloomadol. With Dustin's exceptional talent and cultivation, she knew he would gain far more from it than her."Don't just stand there. Go get it," Alicia urged.Despite her reluctance, Aurora knew that the pill belonged to her sister. She couldn't decide for Alicia, so she simply nodded. Shortly afterward, she returned with an exquisite sandalwood box."Alicia, are you sure about givin
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2259
Besides the battle ring matches, Abigail's gambling business was thriving. She had set up two temporary betting rings to attract more patrons.One accepted cash, and the other VIP betting ring only accepted rare treasures and valuables. These betting rings catered to different gamblers and ensured everyone's preferences were accommodated.The spectators became Abigail's prime targets. Her strategy remained unchanged. First, lures the gamblers with small wins. When they grew complacent, Abigail would reclaim everything in one decisive move. Her tactic proved to be effective.Over the past few days, she had amassed a fortune and emerged as the biggest winner.Although some savvy individuals knew her schemes, they refrained from exposing her due to her stature. So, they simply turned a blind eye.Gamblers would still cling to their hopes even if her schemes were revealed. When they saw others hit the jackpot, this only fueled their urge to try their luck. They were convinced that the
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2260
Alicia, who rarely ventured outside, had only heard about betting rings without ever stepping into one. Seeing one today at the tournament was a new experience. With her curious nature, she couldn't resist diving into the excitement."She still can't change her reckless personality." Fenley shook his head in exasperation and followed closely behind.Since the incident involving Brian, Fenley had become the personal bodyguard for the Marshall sisters. He was constantly vigilant about their safety now.Abigail, the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order, actively promoted her business and shouted enthusiastically, "Come on, everyone! Place your bets and pick your favorites!"No risk of getting ripped off here—bet as much as you want, win or lose fair and square! Our reputation speaks for itself!"She oversaw the VIP section where rare treasures could be exchanged for celestial stones used in gambling.They started by appraising the treasures bettors brought and exchanging them fo
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2261
"Dr. Rhys, don't worry. Even if Number 12 loses, no one's going to blame you," Alicia said with a reassuring smile."Yeah, we're just here for the fun of it. Winning or losing doesn't really matter," Aurora chimed in."That's a relief." Dustin nodded.Gambling could remain harmless if one didn't become too engrossed in it. However, once addicted, it was easy to lose one's rationality. Therefore, it was wise to clarify matters beforehand to prevent unnecessary complications."Fenley, do you want to join us?" Alicia suddenly turned to Fenley beside her."No thanks. You guys go ahead. I'm not into it." Fenley smiled and shook his head. He was passionate about martial arts. Aside from training and fighting, nothing else piqued his interest."What about you, Dr. Rhys?" Alicia asked Dustin."I'll just watch the match," he declined politely. He knew that Abigail's role as the dealer could manipulate the outcome. Plus, those who placed their bets would eventually lose everything."Come
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2262
Atlas' attack came with fierce momentum as he swung his axes with enough force to shatter stone. Miles focused intently and chose to advance rather than retreat. He deftly ducked under Atlas' swinging axes, his hair barely missing their deadly arc.As Atlas' axes missed their mark, Miles' sword was already in motion.A sharp clang echoed through the air. While taking advantage of his momentum, Miles' sword sliced fiercely across Atlas' chest and abdomen as he skimmed past him.The blow shredded Atlas' attire and exposed the padded armor beneath, marked with a faint white streak."Hmm?" Miles frowned. His sword strike had been cunningly angled, executed swiftly and accurately. He had anticipated it would incapacitate Atlas immediately. But to his surprise, Atlas' padded armor absorbed the critical blow."Kid, I hate to admit you've got skills," Atlas remarked. He looked down at his torn clothes with a serious expression.He added, "If I hadn't been prepared, you might have had
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Chapter 2539
When Dustin heard Felicia's word, his hand briefly hesitated before he placed the chess piece. He smiled and said, "I thought you came to learn chess, but I didn't expect you to be here as a messenger."Felicia gave a light, teasing laugh. "With a mind like yours, how could you not know why I'm here?"She added candidly, "Prince Nathaniel saved my life and welcomed me as an honored guest. It's only right that I repay the favor by helping solve his troubles. I hope that it doesn't bother you.""You're frank and gracious, Ms. Thorns. Why would I take offense?" Dustin replied with a faint smile.He had expected her to start with pleasantries or try to butter him up. So, her bluntness actually caught him off guard."To be honest, Prince Nathaniel has never taken this kind of interest in anyone before," Felicia said as she placed another chess piece on the board. She smiled and continued, "I can tell he truly wants you on his side. And as someone close to him, I'd like to help make
Chapter 2538
Nathaniel's mansion was huge. It was more like a maze than a home. Even with a detailed layout, Dustin had to stay sharp as he moved through the grounds. After all, blueprints never quite captured the twists and turns of the actual place.Led by a maid, he followed a winding path through the corridors for nearly ten minutes before finally arriving at a guesthouse with a garden.The place was spacious and quiet, filled with birdsong and blooming flowers. It was a secluded spot that was ideal for privacy."Mr. Rhys, you can stay here. If you need anything, just let me know," the maid said. Her gaze was warm with a hint of admiration. She had watched Dustin's performance in the training ground earlier and knew he was an important guest brought in by Nathaniel. If she could catch his attention, it could completely turn her life around.He waved her off and said, "Okay. You can go now. I don't need anyone to attend to me." "Uh… but…" The maid hesitated."Don't worry. I'll explain
Chapter 2537
The crowd murmured among themselves as they looked at the broken broadsword and the stunned expression on Lycas' face."That strike was insanely fast and dead-on too," someone commented."I never expected General Derin's secret move to be defeated like that. It's unbelievable," another said."I thought General Derin could turn things around for us, but he still lost," a third added.Everyone knew how strong Lycas was. As a fully developed grandmaster with a broadsword, he was supposed to be unstoppable. However, at the critical moment, Dustin's strike shattered his broadsword.Lycas' loss was sudden and almost unbelievable. Some blamed bad luck and thought he could have won if things had gone differently. But those who truly understood what happened knew better.Even with Dustin's movement restricted and Lycas unleashing his strongest technique, he still pierced through the opening with near-impossible timing. That strike wasn't just lucky but masterful. It was a brutal display
Chapter 2536
Lycas gripped his broadsword with both hands and roared. The sound cracked through the air like a thunderclap.He sidestepped sharply and charged straight at Dustin like a raging bull.The heavy broadsword moved like it weighed nothing in his hands. He swung it with brutal speed. Each arc cut through the air with a sharp, whistling howl, as if it could slice through anything in its path.The broadsword came crashing down on Dustin with bone-crushing force, like a mountain falling from the sky.Lycas threw his full weight into the swing. As the sword descended, the force of the strike stirred up dust from the ground. It sent plumes of dirt in every direction.He knew Dustin was no ordinary opponent. If he wanted a chance to win, he had to make the first move and seize the initiative."Nice form," Dustin said.As Lycas launched a powerful, aggressive attack, Dustin remained calm and unruffled. With effortless grace, he sidestepped without the slightest rush. The broadsword whizz
Chapter 2535
Bryce knew Dustin was strong, but this was beyond anything he anticipated. Though he had gained the upper hand early on, Bryce still believed his skills matched Dustin's.From his observation, Dustin relied on martial arts techniques and hit-and-run tactics. Plus, he didn't dare to confront Bryce head-on.He had assumed that as long as he found an opening, he could exploit Dustin's weaknesses and defeat him. But when Dustin finally stopped holding back, Bryce realized how wrong he'd been.It turned out Dustin wasn't just playing hit-and-run tactics. Instead, he'd held back the entire time to spare Bryce from an embarrassing defeat.The moment Dustin stopped holding back, Bryce didn't stand a chance. Even without special techniques, Dustin's raw power, speed, and reflexes were enough to crush him.The difference in their abilities was staggering, so much so that no amount of skill could close the gap.And it wasn't just Bryce who was shocked. Except for Nathaniel, who had already
Chapter 2534
Bryce's request for a fight heated up the atmosphere.Soldiers around the training ground started murmuring among themselves."Lieutenant General Gantz is a legend in our ranks. His combat skills are no joke—he's taken down countless enemies on the battlefield. I haven't seen him in action in years," one young soldier said with awe."Yeah," a veteran agreed. "Lieutenant General Gantz has been through countless battles, and his strength is unmatched. If he steps in, Mr. Rhys might be in for a rough time."After the fight earlier, the soldiers knew firsthand that Dustin was no slouch. Otherwise, he wouldn't have easily defeated the five elite soldiers.But in their minds, no matter how skilled Dustin was, he stood no chance against Bryce.Bryce was a grandmaster not just in rank but in skill, physical strength, and battlefield experience. He was stronger than any expert from the martial world.Nathaniel had once recruited several grandmaster martial artists to spar with them, but
Chapter 2533
"Your Highness, the soldiers under me are trained solely in killing techniques. If they hurt your guest, things could get ugly," Lycas said.He didn't say it outright, but the message was clear. If Dustin wasn't strong enough, he'd better stay out of the way, or he was just asking for trouble.Bryce didn't say anything, but the look he gave Dustin was full of contempt. How could a pampered young man like Dustin measure up to soldiers who've been through the grind? He figured Dustin was probably some heir from a prominent family who knew Nathaniel and was trying to assert his relevance."You guys are blind to greatness when it's standing right in front of you." Nathaniel chuckled and shook his head. He added, "If any of you manage to land a hit on Mr. Rhys, I'll pay out a thousand gold. But honestly, I doubt any of you have what it takes."At the mention of rewards, the soldiers perked up. Their eyes lit up with excitement. They were practically itching to charge at Dustin and g
Chapter 2532
During the meal, Nathaniel arranged for two women to accompany Dustin.Throughout history, even the greatest heroes couldn't resist the allure of beautiful women. Sometimes, a woman of extraordinary beauty could be far more enticing than rare treasures or high status.Dustin remained composed. He neither showed any enthusiasm nor did he deliberately reject it.As for the women seated on either side of him, he treated them with polite respect. He enjoyed a drink and the easy conversation with them, but nothing beyond that.However, Nathaniel saw it differently. To him, it seemed that Dustin was unimpressed by the women at his side.Considering Dustin's background, it made sense. A woman of ordinary beauty would never catch his attention. Nathaniel realized he would need to pull out all the stops. Perhaps, it was time to bring out his most prized companion and see how Dustin responded.After the meal, he led Dustin to his mansion's training ground.The midday sun blazed overhead
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
