"Found it?" His words piqued everyone's interest, and all eyes focused on Dustin's hand. From beneath the mattress, he pulled out a black silk pouch. He opened it and pulled out a red crystal necklace.The crystal was circular, with a deep crimson hue that was eerily similar to blood. It was also engraved with peculiar symbols."What's this? Why was it under Mr. Welch Senior's bed?" The members of the Welch family exchanged confused looks."This is called a blood gem." Dustin lifted the crimson necklace, his gaze fixed upon it. "It's used as a medium for witchcraft, and it has a rather eerie backstory. Legend has it that when someone passes away, this gem is placed in their mouth. "As the person breaths their last breath, it begins a bizarre journey down their throat and diffuses into their bloodstream. "For a century, it soaks up the essence of their blood, ultimately becoming this unique, enchanting blood gem. "They're quite rare and incredibly valuable. It was highly
"That's true! Grandpa tends to get sick often, and each time, he ends up bedridden!" Eleanor nodded enthusiastically."So, this situation has given the spellcaster an opportunity," Dustin said with a faint grin. "Honestly, healing Mr. Welch Senior is pretty easy. We just have to rid him of that blood gem and assist him in replenishing his energy. Soon, he'll be fine."I just performed acupuncture to help him sleep soundly and ease his restlessness. I'll also give him a remedy to calm his mind. With rest, he should recover in about ten days.""Is that it? Are you for real?" Ezra asked skeptically. "What if you're trying to pull a fast one on us?"Dustin raised an eyebrow, and he said earnestly, "I'm serious. If we didn't find that blood gem, Mr. Welch Senior's condition would have deteriorated."Joanne chimed in, her concern evident, "We don't fully understand what you're saying, but we're hoping he can wake up soon.""Mr. Welch Senior has just dozed off, and he needs some rest
With Welch Senior's condition now stable, Alistair grew cautious with Dustin. He kept a close eye on Dustin, ensuring that someone was constantly monitoring his every move.At that moment, Dustin was following Eleanor as they ventured out to explore the streets near the Welch residence.The Welch family owned many businesses in the area, from bars and clubs to hotels and casinos. They were the undisputed rulers of the local entertainment scene, amassing incredible wealth through their diverse ventures.After a tiring day of exploration, Eleanor and Dustin went to a fancy restaurant nearby to grab a meal. But, as they settled into their seats, they heard footsteps approaching their table. Ezra walked over carrying a big bouquet, his eyes filled with affection."What are you doing here?" Eleanor's face immediately stiffened upon seeing him.Without wasting a moment, Ezra dropped to his knee. He looked sincere as he said, "Eleanor, I'm sorry. I know I was wrong. Please, forgive me.
"Yeah, in this day and age, finding a guy who genuinely cares isn't a walk in the park. Look at the dedication this guy's showing to win you back. "If my boyfriend had an ounce of that commitment, I'd be over the moon." The diners in the restaurant began chiming in with their advice.For a man to publicly apologize was a display of remorse. It was enough to melt a woman's heart."Eleanor, please forgive me," Ezra implored."I swear, I will wholeheartedly devote myself to you from now on. If I should I ever stray, may lighting remind me of my promise to you!" Ezra promised solemnly with his arm raised, and three fingers stretched. His unwavering resolve touched Eleanor despite her tough exterior. Still, she feigned anger and responded, "Ezra, it's too late now. I gave you a chance, and you didn't treasure it. Dustin is my boyfriend now." She linked her arm with Dustin's, making her stance clear. Though Ezra had apologized, she was uncertain if she should forgive him. She in
"Dustin, don't be hasty. You can't take him in a fight!" Eleanor urged, recognizing the danger of the situation.Ezra, with his martial arts background, exuded an intimidating presence. He could take on ten opponents without breaking a sweat. On the other hand, Dustin was just a doctor. Someone like Ezra would obviously defeat him."Don't worry, I don't see him as much of a threat," Dustin said calmly.Ezra, though skilled, was a lower-level martial artist. He could win against average opponents but would struggle against a true martial arts expert."You've got some nerve, bastard," Ezra sneered. He casually unbuttoned his suit jacket, unveiling a chiseled, powerful physique concealed beneath his white shirt. His muscles were a testament to his martial arts background."Ezra, don't do anything foolish!" Eleanor stood between the two men, attempting to defuse the situation."Eleanor, this is a battle between men. Don't interfere. I'll prove my love for you," Ezra declared seri
Ezra's scream pierced the air, only to be silenced abruptly by Dustin's unyielding steel grip. He squeezed Ezra's throat, forcing the scream back down. Ezra's face turned crimson as he flailed helplessly.The terror of imminent death filled Ezra, who managed to croak, "Let go ... please ..."Dustin dryly remarked, "Fighting with a knife because your fists aren't enough, huh? Aren't you ashamed?' His fingers tightened, making Ezra's eyes roll back."Stop hurting him!" Suddenly, a scream cut through the tension between them. It was followed by a loud crash as a bottle struck the back of Dustin's head. Glass fragments erupted into the air like fireworks, and the scent of spilled alcohol flooded the room.Dustin scowled, turning to face Eleanor. She stood there, still holding the shattered bottle. Fear and guilt painted on her face.After a moment, Eleanor realized what she had done. She tossed the remaining bottle fragment aside and tried to explain herself. "Dustin, I'm sorry!
"Dustin, don't you think you went overboard just now?" Eleanor said with concern etched across her face. "What if you'd actually hurt Ezra?"She winced as she inspected the red marks on Ezra's neck, then turned to Dustin, demanding an explanation."Overboard?" Dustin chuckled with a wry smile. "Ms. Welch, let's get the facts straight. Ezra was brandishing a knife at me, and I only defended myself. So, who crossed the line here?"Eleanor's expression froze as she tried to clarify, "Well, Ezra wasn't really planning to harm you. He was just trying to intimidate you, so why did you overreact?"Dustin's eyes remained cool and distant as he replied with a touch of sarcasm, "So, it's all my fault? I overstepped, played your bodyguard, instigated this brawl, and took a bottle to the head?""I-That's not what I mean!" With guilt written all over her face, she admitted, "I know smashing a bottle on your head was a mistake, but I freaked out! I was worried you might hurt Ezra, and I j
Ezra smirked as he watched Dustin leave the restaurant. "Did that sore loser really think he stood a chance with Eleanor? He thought too highly of himself!"He pondered, his thoughts flowing naturally. "No matter how hard he tried to get closer to Eleanor, it only took a bit of my sweet words to win her back. That's the difference between us."Eleanor gazed at Dustin's retreating figure, her expression a mix of confusion and disappointment. She'd always believed Dustin liked her, which is why he'd gone to such great lengths to help her. But his nonchalant exit without even a backward glance left her wondering. "Is he heartbroken or just playing hard to get?"She mused, "Dustin, I thought you were a good person, so I wanted to bring you into my world and help you achieve great things. I never expected you to be so oblivious to what you're missing." You've missed out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a beautiful life. It was your choice, and I gave you the chance, but you di
"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
The unrest in West Lucozia finally ended with the capture of Warrick.Every official who was his accomplice was thoroughly investigated. Those who needed to be arrested were taken into custody, and those who deserved to be punished were executed.After the purge, more than 300 officials in West Lucozia were removed from their posts. Those guilty were arrested, and those whose crimes were severe were executed.Under Austin's iron-fisted reforms, West Lucozia's government underwent a complete overhaul. Corruption, bribery, and the tangled web of illegal deals were swept away like dust in the wind.The citizens quickly noticed the difference. When they visited government offices, they no longer faced delays, refusals, or demands for bribes.Long-neglected public issues began to move forward, thanks to the organized efforts of newly appointed officials. Things were improving across the board.Instead of fearing the crackdown, the citizens welcomed it. The corrupt officials who had dr
Austin's expression also turned serious as he saw the doubt in Dustin's eyes. He knew Dustin wouldn't worry over nothing.There were many strange beings in Streuqua, including vampires, werewolves, and the like. These supernatural species were notoriously hard to kill. Even after being decapitated, they weren't necessarily dead.Austin wasn't sure if Poseidon had that kind of ability. After all, the Hall of Gods and its so-called royal gods were still a mystery to most people in West Lucozia.To play it safe, they needed to recover Poisedon's head for their own peace of mind.Out on the water, Jaxon led a team of soldiers and ship crews to comb the sea in search of Poisedon's severed head.At the docks, all eyes turned to Warrick, Mulder, and the others. They had been tied up and were now being dragged before Dustin and Austin one by one.Warrick looked pale, but there was a certain defiance in his eyes. He knew his fate was sealed. After Dustin killed Poseidon, Warrick knew his
Moments later, the once-turbulent sea finally calmed. All that remained was a dense cloud of steam. Like a giant beast, it slowly drifted across the water, as if telling the tale of the heart-pounding battle that had just taken place.Dustin stood on the surface of the sea with the Celestial Blade in hand. His face was grim as he looked ahead. His clothes were torn, and his body was covered in cuts and bruises. Blood streamed from his wounds and dyed the water beneath him red.Suddenly, a headless corpse floated to the surface. Covered in blue scales, it had torn, ragged wings on its back. The body was riddled with gaping wounds as the dark blue blood seeping from it dissipated into the water.The body belonged to Poseidon."H-He's dead? How is that possible?"Looking at the headless corpse floating on the sea, Warrick and the others couldn't help but stare in shock. They never imagined Dustin could slay one of the world's mightiest royal gods with a single blow. If they hadn'
Poseidon slowly rose from the seawater, his wound now fully healed. A flicker of madness flashed in his eyes. The severe injury he just sustained not only failed to make him retreat but instead ignited an even stronger fighting spirit within him.He sneered. "Logan, you've surprised me. But you're still going to die today."Poseidon spun his trident wildly, and the already turbulent sea grew even more violent. The waters swirled around him and formed a massive vortex. It expanded rapidly and soon reached nearly 1,000 feet wide. The surrounding waters were sucked in with terrifying force.The suction was so powerful that even Warrick, Mulder, and the others, watching from a distance, had to brace themselves to avoid being pulled in."Hmm?"Dustin frowned as he felt an overwhelming pressure closing in. The force of the swirling vortex before him was terrifying, as if it could swallow everything in its path. But he didn't flinch. In a flash, he launched forward like a streak of
Poseidon scoffed. "You're so full of yourself." The surrounding seawater surged violently. It transformed into countless razor-sharp water spikes and whistled toward Dustin. The deadly edges glinted under the sunlight. Like a silver rainstorm, the barrage swallowed every inch of space around him.Dustin's sharp gaze locked onto the incoming strikes. With a light swing of the Celestial Blade, a streak of black sword aura shot out. Every water spike in its path shattered into mist and rained down in a cascade of droplets.However, Poseidon refused to relent. His attacks came in endless waves, an unbroken torrent.He gripped his trident with both hands and spun it, creating several blue energy rings. Each one expanded rapidly and surged toward Dustin like crashing waves.Dustin's figure flickered and vanished from his spot. The next second, he reappeared just outside the energy rings.Hovering in midair, he spun at incredible speed. The Celestial Blade in his hand turned into a b
"Logan, I have to admit that you're stronger than I thought. I never expected you'd push me this far," Poseidon said.His arms slowly spread wide, and his blue eyes glowed with murderous intent. "As a mark of respect, I will give it everything I've got. You'll witness the true extent of my power."With a flick of his hand, he made a grabbing gesture. His trident, which had fallen to the bottom of the sea, shot back up through the water and landed firmly in his grasp.Compared to his earlier arrogance, Poseidon now stood with a newfound seriousness. It wasn't just Dustin's strength that had him on edge but his terrifying potential.At only 20, Dustin already possessed this level of strength. If he continued to grow, he would become a serious threat to the Hall of Gods. Hence, Poseidon resolved to eliminate him today."Watch closely," he said.Poseidon slowly raised his trident and gripped it like a javelin. While channeling his energy into the weapon, it pulsed with an intense blu
Dustin was Dragonmarsh's elite prodigy, while Poseidon was the famous royal god of the Hall of Gods.Every move they exchanged unleashed destructive power. Within moments, the area within a 300-foot radius was reduced to wreckage.Dustin wielded his true energy-infused longsword. Each swing unleashed a blinding flare of light as if it could split the sky apart with the Celestial Blade.On the contrary, Poseidon's trident commanded the winds and rains. Each strike could summon huge rolling waves as if he were a god reigning over the forces of nature.Sword aura clashed against walls of water and plunged the entire area into chaos.Warrick and the others watched with rapt attention. Their eyes were locked on the battle ahead as they tried to make sense of the chaos.But Dustin and Poseidon were moving so fast that their actions were almost impossible to follow. Their movements blurred together, and they could only catch flashes of two figures constantly clashing. Their strikes ca
"Let me correct you," Dustin said.As his hand slowly tightened into a fist, a white longsword formed from his true energy. "In Dragonmarsh, there is no 'God. ' We only have the Lord of the Dead."The moment the words left his mouth, a tempest of sword aura exploded outward. Within a radius of several dozen yards, the winds howled, sand and stones were sent flying, and the waves along the shore grew even more violent."Such overwhelming pressure. That sword aura is insane. Is this Logan's actual strength?"Feeling the surge of energy, Warrick and the others couldn't help but turn pale. It was then they realized that Dustin hadn't been fighting seriously before. Or perhaps, with their strength, they hadn't even earned the right to make him fight for real. They figured only someone of Poseidon's caliber could force Dustin to go all out."Interesting… truly fascinating." Poseidon suddenly laughed. "I thought you were just a pup, but it turns out you're a hungry wolf. Now, this is s