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Chapter 1380
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An Understated Dominance Chapter 1381
"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
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1382
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
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1383
The next morning, Dustin sat cross-legged in a guest room at the Welch residence, deep in meditation. A brisk knock on the door abruptly shattered his peaceful moment."Who's there?" Dustin asked as he slowly opened his eyes."Dr. Rhys, it's me, Feiver. I've brought your breakfast," a familiar voice from the other side replied."Alright," Dustin replied, getting up to answer the door.Fifteen-year-old Feiver, a humble orphan and a housekeeper in the Welch family, stood outside with a finely crafted food container. He had been taking care of Dustin since his arrival the day before. He was always ready with a cup of tea and a friendly word."Thank you for your hard work," Dustin said, stepping aside to welcome Feiver inside."No trouble at all," Feiver responded with a respectful nod. He placed the food container on the table and unveiled the morning meal. "Dr. Rhys, today's breakfast is quite a feast," he explained as he revealed each dish."The first dish is a Spicy Shrimp C
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1384
Dustin smiled and encouraged, "Go on, don't be shy."Feiver hesitated, holding onto his plate and avoiding eye contact."You're still growing, and you're way too skinny, bud. You've got to eat more," Dustin said, adding food to Feiver's plate.Feiver mumbled a reluctant "thanks". His smile was strained, revealing his nervousness."'Not hungry? Maybe it's not to your liking? No worries, try the shrimp or the beef stew." Dustin added more food to his plate, playing the role of a doting father. "Okay, Dr. Rhys, you shouldn't worry about me. You should eat, too!" Feiver trembled with the plate in his hand as he tried to avoid eating. "I'm not hungry; you go ahead," Dustin smiled."I-I'm not hungry either," Feiver stammered, trembling occasionally. "That's fine; think of it as a tasting session. Go ahead, dig in." Dustin nodded. As Feiver refused to eat, Dustin suddenly joked, "Why? Do you think I've poisoned the food?" "Wha—?" Feiver paled, and he managed a forced smile, bea
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1385
With a swift, ruthless swing, Feiver's head parted from his body, thudding to the floor and rolling like a soccer ball. His saucer-wide eyes showed his disbelief. He never imagined that his life wouldn't be taken by Dustin but by his foster father.Joaquin, the Welch family butler, was actually Feiver's foster father. When Feiver had nowhere to go, Joaquin rescued him, bringing him into the Welch family and giving him a place to stay. He had always been grateful and dutiful.So, when Joaquin instructed Feiver to poison Dustin, he didn't hesitate. Feiver felt it was time to repay the kindness he had received. To gain Dustin's trust, he even risked his own life, completely willing to sacrifice it.But now, he was betrayed by the man he considered as family. It was the reality that he couldn't wrap his head around."What?"Dustin furrowed his brow upon seeing Feiver's lifeless body. He fixed his gaze squarely on Joaquin and asked calmly, "Mr. Yaxley, care to explain what's goin
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1386
Dustin asked politely, "Mr. Welch, I've heard that your father has awakened. Is that correct?" "Yes, my dad has indeed woken up, but he's still weak. His mind is somewhat clouded. I believe he needs some time to rest," Alistair replied. Dustin reassured him, "No worries, those are just some aftereffects. He'll be back on his feet in no time." Changing the topic, he continued, "Now, Mr. Welch, about our deal. You promised me the Emerald Corolla and the Iceheart Lotus. When can I get them?""Well …" Alistair exchanged a glance with those beside him and hesitated.Joanne quickly interjected, "Dr. Rhys, we have no intentions of going back on our word. However, it might take a while since we're swamped with other things, and your request isn't our top priority.""Mrs. Welch, it seems you had a different stance when we made the deal." Dustin shook his head. "Precious herbs are rare and can't be easily acquired. We'll notify you when we have any information. Your patience will be a
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1387
"What's this? You want to do this the hard way?" Dustin scanned the Welch family members and smirked. "I've saved your daughter, handed over the formula, and pulled Mr. Welch Senior from the brink of death, all for the Welch family. And yet, you're turning on me now. "If word gets out, what will that do to your family's reputation?"His words sent a shiver down Alistair's spine, and the others squirmed. Alistair had orchestrated the poisoning to protect his family's reputation as a backup plan in case things went south. But with Feiver dead, openly confronting Dustin posed a risk of leaving themselves vulnerable. The reputation of the Welch family would be tarnished if it became known that they had committed murder and repaid kindness with enmity. After careful consideration, Alistair ultimately chose to step back for the time being"Joanne, what's running through that mind of yours? Dr. Rhys has done us a great favor. How can you be ungrateful?" Alistair scolded his wife
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1388
"Call for help right now! I'm on my way!" Dustin said urgently before hanging up the phone. He floored the gas pedal and raced toward Harmony Healers.With no time to waste, he ran the red lights, zipping like a lightning bolt. A drive that usually took 20 minutes became a ten-minute drive instead.When he arrived at the scene, the fire department was still on its way. Harmony Healers stood engulfed in a furious blaze. The first floor was gone, and the flames were creeping up to the second floor. Despite neighbors helping with water buckets, their efforts felt like a drop in the ocean. At this rate, the fire would reach the third floor in less than five minutes!"Quick! We need more help!" Brooke shouted, holding a fire extinguisher in his hand and spraying it frantically. His clothes were in tatters, his face smudged with soot, and he had burns on his skin. He looked absolutely worn out."Dr. Busch! Is Mr. Shaffer safe?""Cinna is still inside, and the fire has gotten out of
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An Understated Dominance Chapter 2452
"Get lost! I'm not in the mood for anything right now. If you want to eat, go on your own." Warrick snapped, looking annoyed."I'm not going either," Percival refused flatly. "I'm on a health regimen these days—only tea, no alcohol.""Fine. If you're going to wait, then keep waiting. I won't be sticking around." Huxley forced a smile and acted like he was about to leave.But as he turned, he almost bumped into Boston, who was approaching from the other direction."Sorry, Sir Thatcher! I hope I didn't startle you." Since he was surrounded by so many high-ranking officials, Boston was already on edge. He had momentarily spaced out and almost caused a mishap by running into Huxley, which left him flustered and a bit tongue-tied.Unlike the other generals, Boston didn't come from an influential background or have any powerful connections. He had worked his way up from the bottom, and the last thing he wanted was to offend Huxley and risk losing everything he had fought so hard for.
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2451
After parting ways with Boston, Jovian checked into a nearby hotel to await the good news. Boston wasted no time. After changing into a fresh set of clothes, he headed to the castle to deliver a letter of introduction. But when he arrived, he was stunned by what he saw.The gates of the West Lucozian monarchy had already gathered quite a few people, and among them were several figures he immediately recognized. These included Huxley Thatcher, the Commander of the Militia; Warrick Prescott, the Major General of the State Guard; and Percival Wentworth, the Chancellor of the National Academy.These three were first-ranking officials. In West Lucozia, they were nothing short of kingmakers who wielded immense power and influence. Warrick, in particular, was two ranks above Boston. Hence, he felt the need to be cautious in his presence and was eager not to make a bad impression.Alongside these three prominent figures, several second- and third-ranking officials also stood in line at
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2450
The following morning, Jovian stood at the entrance of West Lucozia Airport, wearing a sharp suit.Before the trip, he had contacted his comrade with whom he had fought side by side in the military. After earning military merit and with the Ballard family's influence, he was fortunate enough to stay in Oakvale and secure a decent position.His comrade, on the other hand, had moved to West Lucozia to carve out a life for himself. Years of hard work had paid off—he was now a third-rank general with considerable power, influence, and a strong network of connections. Jovian's meeting with the Prince of West Lucozia would depend entirely on his comrade's connections.Just then, the roar of an engine cut through the air as a military jeep pulled up beside him. The window rolled down, and the first thing that came into view was a bald head gleaming in the sunlight like a lightbulb. The glare nearly blinded him.Under that shiny dome was a face that looked ordinary at first glance. But w
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2449
"Grandfather, I understand why you sent Uncle Jonathan and Uncle Jensen to the Spanner and Fallon families to gather information," Natasha began. "But West Lucozia is thousands of miles away."She shook her head slightly. "They've always stayed out of the government's political matters. Sending Uncle Jovian there wouldn't achieve anything. He'd likely just be turned away." Oakvale and West Lucozia were worlds apart. The fight for the Oakvale throne didn't really affect the West Lucozian monarchy. Both sides had long adhered to an unspoken agreement to avoid meddling in each other's affairs."I know, but it'll be different this time. The royal throne is at stake, and every faction will do whatever it takes to secure West Lucozia's support. If the West Lucozian monarchy picks a side, the balance we've maintained for years will collapse. That's why I need to be ready for whatever happens," Simon replied.It would be best if the West Lucozian monarchy stayed out of the political strug
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2448
At the Ballard estate, Dustin was warmly welcomed to stay after dinner. This was the first time Natasha had brought her boyfriend home, so the Ballards made a big deal of it.Simon personally accompanied the young couple and invited them to the study to chat over tea. With his sharp eye, Simon could tell Dustin was no ordinary martial artist. His manners, speech, and broad knowledge set him apart from most people."Dustin, I fully support your relationship with Natasha. Your background or status doesn't matter. What matters most is that you two are happy together." Simon paused and said earnestly, "I want you to understand that she's been pampered all her life and hasn't faced much hardship. Now that she's with you, I hope you'll take good care of her.""Don't worry, Mr. Ballard. I would never let her down," Dustin replied sincerely.Though they had known each other for some time and hadn't yet taken their relationship to the next level, they had already made their feelings clear
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2447
After hearing Nathaniel's words, Tristan's expression darkened. His brow furrowed as he sank into deep thought.It seemed he had underestimated the situation. He had assumed it was just a simple rivalry between brothers; he hadn't anticipated Seamus seizing the chance to further his own agenda.Seamus already wielded considerable influence. Under the guise of supporting Matthias' ascension to the throne, he had been forming alliances and recruiting talents. His influence had grown to rival the royal family's.If Seamus really supported Matthias' ascension, he'd overshadow the king, and no one would be able to stop him. The worst-case scenario would be Seamus using Matthias as a puppet to overthrow the House of Linsor."Nathaniel, is everything you said true?" Tristan frowned."Absolutely. Every word," Nathaniel replied solemnly. "Of course, if you don't believe me, you can send someone to investigate.""I believe you. But… taking down Seamus won't be easy. Do you have a plan?" Tr
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2446
An hour later, Nathaniel quietly entered a private mansion wearing a disguise.Inside the living room, Tristan had already prepared tea and refreshments. He looked as if he had been waiting for a long time."Sorry to have kept you waiting, Tristan." Nathaniel took off his coat and walked forward with a smile."No need to apologize. I'm happy that you made the effort to arrange this. A few extra minutes are nothing, especially since it's rare for us to meet." Tristan gestured for him to sit while he poured two cups of tea and handed one to his brother.Nathaniel accepted the cup and discreetly set it aside. Whenever he was out, he was always cautious about food and drink—this wariness had become second nature."You asked to meet me on short notice. Is this about official matters or something personal?" Tristan took a sip from his cup and got straight to the point."Both," Nathaniel replied, still smiling."Oh?" Tristan raised an eyebrow. "Let's hear it, then.""Given how things
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2445
In another luxurious mansion in the Inner City, a female spy dressed in black, cloaked in a hood, was reporting the results of her investigation to Nathaniel."Your Highness, the Moseys have been particularly active recently and are rallying allies. Many of the eight great families and other influential factions have already allied with them. If left unchecked, they'll pose a serious threat to us," she said, kneeling with her head lowered slightly."So the Moseys are backing Matthias, huh?" Nathaniel sat quietly, his expression unreadable."The Moseys have grand ambitions. While they claim to support Prince Matthias, they're merely setting him up as a puppet to rise to power and expand their own influence," she revealed.She had been infiltrating the Moseys' mansion for years and had gained a deep understanding of their operations, from the smallest details to the key players.Though Seamus appeared as a benevolent philanthropist, it was all a façade. Behind closed doors, he was r
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2444
That night, two young men sat playing chess inside a secluded mansion in the Inner City. On the left was Anders, who had visited the Ballard estate earlier. Across from him sat Matthias, a broad-shouldered man dressed in richly adorned robes.The game was intense, with fast moves followed by moments of deep thought. About ten minutes later, Anders finally conceded defeat."Anders, you've really improved since we last played. You almost had me there," Matthias said, stroking his beard in mild surprise."You flatter me, Your Highness. My chess skills are nothing compared to yours. If you hadn't gone easy on me, I wouldn't have lasted half as long," Anders replied with a modest smile."You're as smooth with words as ever." Matthias let out a hearty laugh with a look of smug satisfaction. Winning was in his nature—whether in war or on the chessboard, defeat was not an option."Well, we've eaten, and we've played. Let's get to business." With a wave of his hand, he signaled his men t
