"Thank you, Ms. Nicholson, but that won't be necessary." Dustin shook his head without taking the name card. "What?" Dahlia raised her eyebrow, surprised. "Are you sure you don't want to think about it?"There were only a few people who would reject her offer. Dustin not only rejected it altogether, he didn't even hesitate."No, thank you. Being an insurance agent is pretty good. I won't adapt to a corporate lifestyle." Dustin declined again. "Hey! Do you know how many people are dying to get into Ms. Nicholson's company? She's giving you a chance, don't be ungrateful!" Elena said arrogantly.As Sir Mosey's goddaughter, even the aristocrats in Oakvale had to show Dahlia respect. How dare an insurance agent decline her offer? He was disrespectful!"Why don't you take the offer instead? I don't need it." Dustin glanced at her coldly."You—!" Elena was about to retort when Dahlia raised her hand to stop her."Forget about it. Since he refused, I won't force him. I'll be off
"Uncle Edgar, these are my friends! What are you doing?" Sheila was shocked and stood before her friends with her arms wide open."Hmph! They're nothing but a bunch of troublemakers! "Just one look and you could tell that they're bad influences! Now, step aside!" Edgar roared."No! They're innocent! You can't hurt them!" Sheila reasoned."Mr. Murray, we didn't do anything. This is a misunderstanding!" Vivian hastily explained."That's right! It was an accident that Roxanne got hurt. It has nothing to do with us!" The group was panicking.Edgar was a very decisive man and held authority within the family. It would only lead to trouble if they were to be apprehended by him. Even if they escaped death, they would probably still be tortured."Still trying to argue your way out? If it wasn't for your schemes, how would Midnight Shadow have suddenly gone berserk? "Do you think I'm stupid?" Edgar bellowed.Based on the information he received earlier, he found two aspects of the
Edgar had a dark, hostile expression."I won't!" Sheila bit her lips, not moving."You—!" Edgar raised his arm, about to strike her again, when Dustin grabbed him.He said coldly, "Try that again, and I'll break your arm!" "You impudent bastard!""Let go of Sir Edgar!" The soldiers advanced toward them. Their fiery stares fixated on Dustin and their gun aimed at him. "Stop it right there!" Suddenly, someone roared from the outside.Everyone turned to look to see a middle-aged man with a heroic appearance rush in with a beautiful lady.It was Sheila's parents, Caden Murray and Lily Doyle."Edgar, what exactly did Sheila do that you have to point a gun at her?" Caden questioned coldly.He saw that slap as clear as day."Caden, Roxanne was harmed and is still lying at the hospital. I'm just trying to track down the culprit," Edgar stated firmly."Are you implying that Shiela is the culprit?" Caden asked with narrowed eyes."Sheila may not be the culprit, but her friends w
"Mr. Caden, are you threatening me?" Dustin's smile disappeared after hearing those harsh words.From the start, he had been displeased with Caden. He disliked that he was untrustworthy and never stayed faithful to his promises. "It's a warning if you heed my advice; It's a threat if you don't," Caden admitted without reservations."Let me repeat myself. Sheila and I are just friends; I've never had ulterior motives. "It's best that we don't interfere in each other's business," Dustin stated calmly. "Brat, it seems like you still don't get it." Caden's expression was frosty. "What makes an utterly worthless character like you think that you are worthy of being friends with my daughter? Please take a look in the mirror and have a clear look at yourself. "The Murray family is not a place for opportunistic freeloaders like yourself."What was once a threat had now turned into a blatant insult. "Caden Murray. Don't be so full of yourself. You better drop your cocky attitud
Dustin said seriously, "Caden Murray, the Soul Devouring Technique is a crash course for those out of options. "If you continue down this path, you'll meet a violent end sooner or later!""Nonsense! I'm stronger than ever now! I can take on a thousand-man army without fear!" Caden roared. "Being strong is all an illusion. Right now, your body is deteriorating fast. If you continue in your foolishness, you'll only end up harming yourself and those around you!" Dustin warned. An instant death was considered merciful for those who practiced the Soul Devouring Technique. The real danger was if they went to extremes in training. They would go berserk and not recognize their loved ones, killing everyone they saw. That was why the nearest and dearest to them often suffered from their madness. There might even come a day when Sheila will be killed by Caden."Brat! You can stop with the nonsense now. Even if you come up with the most ridiculous stories, I won't spare you!" Caden sne
In the end, Dustin entered an antique study at Christopher's invitation. After they were served coffee, they started chatting."Kid, it's been ten years, hasn't it? You look like a completely new person compared to back then!" Christopher looked him up and down in astonishment. Ten years ago, Dustin was known as Dragonmarsh's number-one talent. He was young, arrogant, and rebellious. But today, he had transformed into a reserved man, hiding his abilities and talent."Ten years have passed, and you are still as dignified and graceful as ever," Dustin complimented. "I'm getting old. I'm not as imposing as I used to be." Christopher shook his head with a smile. "Kid, I don't think you came because you missed me. Do you have something to discuss?""To be honest, I'm here to visit you. But I'm also here to ask for a favor," Dustin went straight to the point.He even placed a gift he had prepared on the table as he spoke."Oh? What is it?" Christopher sipped on his coffee as he
The helper caught on and left immediately. Soon, he came in with a wooden box. "Kid, I'm giving this to you as a gift." Christopher received the wooden box before passing it to Dustin. Dustin opened it up carefully and was greeted by a unique smell. Inside the wooden box laid a colorful Cherusia. The Cherusia was the size of a palm. It appeared delicate and beautiful, resembling a perfect work of art. When illuminated by the light, it sparkled with radiant colors, creating a breathtaking sight. "It really is the Cherusia!" Dustin's face lit up as he jumped to his feet. He shook Christopher's hand enthusiastically. "Thank you so much for agreeing to give this to me, General Murray!"Christopher appeared genuinely generous as he replied, "I have no use for it myself anyway. Besides, I gain a favor by giving it to you.""I can't express my gratitude enough. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you ever need my help," Dustin said.The Cherusia was invaluable, yet Christo
Meanwhile, inside a luxurious courtyard within the Murray residence, a young, lean man dressed in fine clothing was having coffee with Caden."Mr. Diego, what brings you here?" Caden smiled as he poured Diego a cup of coffee."Thank you." Diego nodded politely."I've long heard about your greatness, Mr. Caden. I came here today with the main intention of getting to know you." Diego had a strong foreign accent."Mr. Diego, there is no need for such pleasantries," Caden remarked. "Please, feel free to speak your mind. Let's have an honest conversation.""Mr. Caden, since you prefer to be straightforward, I won't beat around the bush any longer."I came here today in hopes of meeting General Murray. But unfortunately, he was too busy and had no time to see me. "I was hoping you could put in a good word for me." As he spoke, Diego gestured for his men to bring over a long wooden box. The box was about four feet long, and when opened, it revealed an ornate curved longsword. Dieg
If Warrick had been at his peak, Axel might have been more cautious. But with Tranqurin coursing through his vein, Warrick had barely a fraction of his usual strength left. His power was still fading, and Axel wasn't about to waste the opportunity. He had to capture Warrick while he had the chance."Get the hell out of my way!"As the enforcers closed in, Warrick let out a furious roar and slammed his massive fist into the floor.With a loud explosion, the earth shook violently. The ground within dozens of yards cracked and caved in, splitting apart like a spiderweb. A powerful shockwave tore through the air, sending dirt flying and walls shattering. The entire meeting room collapsed into ruins.The elite enforcers, caught in the blast, were flung backward like ragdolls. They crashed to the ground, disoriented and battered. Even Axel was thrown back more than ten yards.Warrick panted heavily, his face pale and drenched in sweat. Forcing his internal energy into action had only
Austin's words were strong and commanding, each one landing like a thunderclap.Warrick felt the weight of his presence. His brow furrowed for a moment, but he quickly regained his composure. He glanced at the so-called evidence on the floor, showing no sign of panic or guilt. Instead, he said indifferently, "Your Highness, these dead men were nothing more than ants. Is this really worth making such a fuss over? I doubt you haven't killed anyone before."As the old saying went, the higher one climbed, the heavier one's purse. Warrick had clawed his way up, risking his life at every step for the sake of rising above the masses. Everyone had their own desires—some sought fame, others fortune. Some were greedy for money, some for power, and others reveled in the adoration of the masses. To achieve those things, one inevitably had to engage in shady dealings. It was an unspoken rule among officials, and Warrick saw nothing wrong with it."Ants?" Austin sneered. "Without these 'ant
The ashen-faced Huxley was dragged away. With his crimes exposed, his fate was sealed. His entire family would be implicated, and their assets would be seized.Those guilty would be punished, and even those who had merely benefited from his corruption would be held accountable. To put it bluntly, Huxley's entire family was about to be annihilated.Austin issued his next order once the bloodstains were cleaned up. "Axel, it's time to bring in the mastermind."With Huxley dealt with, the next step was to confront Warrick. Unlike Huxley, Warrick wouldn't be easy to deal with. After all, he commanded a large number of troops. If backed into a corner, he could become a major threat."Understood!" Axel responded respectfully, then turned to his subordinates. "Gather more men and come with me."Warrick had earned his prestigious position through years of fierce battles. On the battlefield, he was a one-man army, a warrior capable of taking on thousands. His strength was beyond what mos
"You bastard! With all this evidence in front of you, what do you have to say for yourself?" Austin barked."Your Highness, please let me explain…" Huxley broke out in a cold sweat, his voice trembling with panic."This is a lie. Someone's trying to frame me! I've always followed the law—how could I possibly be involved in something so vile?""The evidence is right in front of you, and you're still trying to weasel out of it?" Austin shot back. "Looks like you won't confess until death is knocking at your door."He raised his hand and ordered, "Guards, throw him into Grimhold Keep. Use whatever means necessary—let's see how long he keeps up this act.""Yes, Your Highness."A squad of enforcement team members rushed in and surrounded Huxley.Cornered, Huxley finally lost his nerve. He dropped to his knees with a thud and begged, "Your Highness, I admit I made a grave mistake."His voice cracked as he continued, "I wasn't thinking clearly at the time. Please, for the sake of my y
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
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?
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
"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
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