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Chapter 1709
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An Understated Dominance Chapter 1710
When Dustin thought about it carefully, he could guess Valon's intentions. With the Dragon Guard eliminated, the royal family would gain true control of the nation. However, due to the Dragon Guard's influence over the years, the royal family found itself in a precarious position and needed substantial support. It was clear that Valon had considered the West Lucozian monarchy the best choice to provide this support. On one hand, the West Lucozian monarchy boasted formidable military strength and wielded influence in the court. On the other hand, since they considered the Dragon Guard their sworn enemy, collaborating with them seemed like the logical move. As long as the royal family had the backing of the West Lucozian monarchy, their position would be fortified. This was the reason Valon had sought out an audience with Dustin. Although it sounded absurd for Dustin to decide the next in line for the throne, it underscored Valon's sincerity. He was indeed a strategist with a
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1711
"Your Majesty, forgive me for being direct, but I don't agree with you," Dustin said.He continued seriously, "While it might be normal for you to have multiple wives, in my view, a monogamous marriage is the only way to go. "Not to mention, a loveless marriage is a dead marriage. I don't wish to put myself or another person in that situation." Grace was surprised at Dustin's words and seemed to look at him in a different light after that. Most powerful and influential men in Oakvale had multiple women. The remaining minority either had wives from influential backgrounds, making it unwise to cheat publicly, or struggled with impotence.It was rare to find men like Dustin who had self-control and refrained from engaging in improper relationships. "Logan, do you not like Grace? Or do you think that she is not worthy of you?" Valon probed. His daughter dominated the Beauty Ranking. She was at the top, whether in terms of looks or talents. Countless young talents across the lan
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1712
Dustin frowned slightly. "Then, who do you think is most suitable to be the next ruler among your brothers?"Trying to get me to talk now, huh?" Grace chuckled lightly. "Since Father presented this question to you, you should find the answer yourself. I won't be able to help.""You're pretty incompetent as a Regal Observatory disciple!" Dustin shook his head helplessly.The nation's fate was going to be impacted by choosing a successor. Dustin never expected such a heavy responsibility to fall on his shoulders. The key matter was that no matter who he chose, he would inevitably offend the other powerful princes. He would land himself in trouble if that were to happen. "There's no need to be so anxious. Father gave you time to think about it. You can observe them carefully before deciding which prince has better potential or perhaps aligns better with the West Lucozian monarchy," Grace said meaningfully. "What a bother." Dustin sighed. He could feel a headache coming on."Oh
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1713
"Mr. Dyer, may I know why Prince Tristan has invited me at this hour?" Dustin feigned ignorance. "His Royal Highness heard you'd returned to Oakvale and is eager to catch up. Today is a beautiful night to have a conversation over drinks," Milton said with his head lowered. "Mr. Dyer, can we do this another day? I'm truly exhausted tonight and only wish to get back home and get some rest. I promise to visit another day," Dustin responded respectfully. This statement was not a lie. He had several intense battles that day and was still nursing significant injuries. He was genuinely longing for a good night's sleep. However, it seemed like fate had other plans. First, it was Grace, then the King, and now even Tristan's men were inviting him over. They were not allowing him even a moment's rest."Your Highness, Prince Tristan has prepared some food and is waiting in the mansion. If you feel tired, why not meet Prince Tristan first before resting there? I will make the necessary a
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1714
Right then, Grace and Dustin walked in together. "Tristan …" Grace said. Tristan stood up to greet them with a smile. "Long time no see, Grace."He then turned to Dustin and said, "I'm guessing this must be Logan. It's been ten years. You've changed so much. I almost couldn't recognize you.""Greetings, Your Royal Highness." Dustin bowed."There's no need for such formalities. We're cousins, after all." Tristan immediately went and straightened Dustin's back. "Come, have a seat. Just make yourself at home.""Thank you, Your Royal Highness.""Thank you, Tristan."Dustin and Grace took a seat after thanking him."Logan, I'm sorry for ushering you here at this hour, but some things just cannot be delayed. I hope you understand," Tristan took the initiative to apologize, showing great courtesy. "There's no need to apologize, Prince Tristan." Dustin smiled faintly. "It's an honor to be a guest at your residence."Tristan was about to say something when he saw Grace beside
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1715
The Celestial Eye was one of the three greatest sacred relics of the martial world. It shared a similar reputation with the Celestial Pearl and was a priceless treasure countless individuals dreamed of possessing. The Celestial Eye was an extraordinarily mystical item with infinite uses. It could not only see through all kinds of illusions, but it could also break through numerous intricate spells. For example, one could immediately tell if they were trapped in an illusion or ensnared by a spell. Not only that, it was also useful during battles. It could discern all of the enemy's attacks. Not only that, it could also see through their weaknesses and lethal moves. Plus, it was an advantageous item to have during treasure hunting. It could tell if something was a treasure, its exact value, and its precise location. The Celestial Eye would reveal them all.Dustin never expected Tristan to possess such a treasure."You have a good eye, Logan!" Tristan exclaimed. He continued with a s
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1716
"I've been frail and ailing since childhood and can't deal with taxing work, not to mention trekking through mountains or waters, " Tristan explained. "Besides, I'm just a scholar. Why would I need the Dracan essence to enhance my cultivation? "Stop hesitating and just take it. You're the future King of West Lucozia and a pillar of our nation. The stronger you become, the more prosperous our country will be. "If I get the chance to inherit the throne, I will share the world with you, and together, we will create glory!"Tristan patted Dustin's shoulder with a smile, his last sentence implying a clear message. Since Dustin had accepted his treasure, he should support Tristan's ascension to the throne, and it would be a mutually advantageous situation."Prince Tristan, I appreciate your generosity. Thank you," Dustin said. Since Tristan had already put it that way, Dustin couldn't find another reason to decline. But the main reason was because the Celestial Eye would help him g
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1717
"What happened?" Dustin was in a daze and only felt a gentle fragrance envelop him. When he finally came to his senses, he realized he was lying in Grace's arms. Grace was dressed in loose attire, so he didn't notice it at first. But the intimacy of their close proximity finally made him realize the true meaning of firmness and suppleness. "What are you doing?" Grace frowned in anger and embarrassment. "Sorry, it wasn't on purpose. The car suddenly stopped, and I lost my balance, so …" Dustin felt awkward. "How long are you going to touch me? Get your hands off me!" Grace yelled."I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Dustin was so shocked he retracted his hands immediately. Sure enough, being too tired would only lead to delayed reactions. "What's going on outside?" Grace asked in a slightly louder voice. "Your Royal Highness, someone has blocked the way," the driver replied. "Blocking the road at this late hour? Is it an assassin?" Grace was the first to get out of the car. Dus
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An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance 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
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2522
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
