LOGINShare
Chapter 1977
Related chapters
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1978
"What's happening?" Grace quickly noticed Dustin's abnormal behavior."The Celestial Eye has detected something," Dustin replied in a lowered voice."Hmm?" Grace's eyes lit up and her heart was in her throat. "Could it be the Dracan essence?""I'm not sure." Dustin shook his head lightly. While it was true that the Celestial Eye could sense other treasure nearby, it couldn't accurately tell what the treasure was. Hence, he couldn't be certain if the hidden object near the lake was Dracan essence. The only thing that he was sure of was that the treasure was extraordinary as there was a huge reaction from the Celestial Eye."Whatever it may be, I have to go check it out myself. Later, we'll play by ear and please pay attention to even the smallest detail," Grace said seriously. If the Dracan essence was really hidden nearby, she'd do anything to get her hands on it."Got it." Dustin nodded and didn't say too much. Instead, he paid extra attention to the Celestial Eye's reactio
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1979
No one knew that the lake would be filled with water again when morning came and the palatial building was completely hidden beneath. Sophia didn't dive into the lake as she couldn't determine what was in the water."Are you sure that there is treasure hidden at the bottom of the lake?" Aidan asked again."It's true! I swear!" Sophia appeared very certain."Alright, we'll wait here then. We'll see what is really at the bottom of the lake tonight." Aidan nodded."Mr. Ridge, why do we have to wait till nightfall? Isn't it better to just explore the lake now?" Garrett suggested. Everyone knew that the monsters were most active at night. It might appear quiet and peaceful now, however, there might be many different monsters appearing by the lake at night. It'd be dangerous then."The lake is deep and we can't see the bottom. If you go in now, you can't even see where you're going. How are you going to search for the treasure?" Aidan commented casually."Mr. Ridge, to be honest, m
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1980
As Dozer dove in, the rolling waves quieted down slowly. Everyone stood and waited quietly at the shore, each lost in their own thoughts. It was a very quiet lake with emerald water. The visibility in the lake was very low as no fish were seen. It was obvious that it was a little abnormal.Time ticked by slowly and very soon, five minutes had passed. The surface of the lake remained calm and there was no movement under the surface as well. The trio that dove in had disappeared completely and they made no waves."It's been five minutes since they dove in, right? Why aren't they surfacing yet? Could there have been an accident?""Likely impossible. If there was any monster in the lake, they must have put up a fight with it. However, there isn't any sign of struggle. It's enough to prove that they're alright.""An undercurrent could have pulled them under and drowned them?"Looking at the calm surface of the lake, everyone started discussing and guessing. Martial artists might
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1981
Everything occurred in a flash, from the appearance of the mutant piranha to the swallowing of a Black Scorpion Squad member, and then the disappearance of the mutant piranha. It was so fast that no one could wrap their head around the incident.The Black Scorpion Squad member that was swallowed disappeared before he could shout for help. All that was left were splashes on the lake's surface as blood gurgled up rapidly from below."W-What?" Dozer and the other member were shocked beyond words. Both of them widened their eyes in terror and looked around with a frightened expression. What just happened? Where did their team member go? Why was there blood gurgling up from below?"Why are you two still there? Swim for your life!" Recovering from his shock, Garrett yelled loudly."Yes… save ourselves!" Dozer and the other team member suddenly came to their senses. They started flailing their arms and legs around as they swam toward the shore as fast as they could without a second
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1982
Garrett was dumbfounded. Staring at the densely packed mutant piranhas, his fury was replaced by sheer horror. Who would have thought that human-eating monstrous creatures would be hiding in the seemingly calm lake? Had he known earlier, he never would have allowed his team to dive into the waters. "There's danger lurking everywhere!" Sophia feigned a sigh.In fact, she already knew about the mutant piranhas when she saw them tearing apart and devouring two massive mutant wolves the previous night. She didn't warn the others of the danger to prioritize her chances of securing valuable treasure. After all, the more casualties there were, the fewer individuals she would have to divide the treasures with."Diving in with so many mutant piranhas around is impossible. We'll wait for the tide to recede at night," Grace commented, instructing her guards to set up camp nearby.Given the unusual behavior of the Celestial Eye, there was a strong possibility that the Dracan essence was h
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1983
"Despicable?" Bran shook his head as he chuckled."Jackson, you're the lead disciple of the Embersteel Order. I'm really disappointed to hear you say something like that." He was gratified to see Jackson deflated. "Bran, you know the saying—first come, first served. We've staked our claim here. You should go somewhere else." Sophia asserted.It would become increasingly disadvantageous for her if more people found out about the treasures beneath the lake. If she couldn't outcompete them or was beaten to it, then all her efforts would be in vain."Oh? It's Sophia from Harmony Sect. It's been two years since we last met, and you've grown even more beautiful." Bran grinned. "Thank you for the compliment, Bran," Sophia replied with a faint smile. "Bran, Harmony Sect discovered this place first. Can you let us have it?""Sophia, it's not that I don't want to, but this is a mission given to us by our sect. I have no choice." Bran suddenly changed the subject, "But of course, i
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1984
"Are you threatening me?" Grace asked calmly."You could consider it... a friendly advice." Bran's chuckle carried a meaningful tone. "Ms. Linsor, you're an intelligent woman. I'm sure you understand the right decision to make in this situation."In the Southwest, numerous factions existed, but only three major sects held supreme authority. Among them, the Drakes Dominion Order was universally acknowledged as the most powerful, followed by the Frostwing Sect, and then the Embersteel Order.The Frostwing Sect was already dominating the region with their influence, adding to that their alliance with the Drakes Dominion Order, their combined strength was unstoppable. Who would dare confront them head-on in the entirety of Southwest?"Sorry, but I'm afraid you'll have to be disappointed. My stance remains the same. We either share it all or there's nothing else to talk about." Grace was unfazed. "Hmm?" Bran's face darkened, and he spoke sternly, "You bitch! I'm being kind he
An Understated Dominance Chapter 1985
Everyone was shocked by the scene unfolding before their eyes. The pillar of light shooting into the sky, the enormous vortex at the center of the lake, and the receding water—all signs pointed to a major change. The tension between the two factions was forgotten as their attention shifted toward the extraordinary phenomenon in the lake, silently hoping for the revelation of treasures. The central vortex in the lake spun faster, expanding its reach as the receding water vanished into the vortex. In just half an hour, the lake had dried up significantly. Finally, a palace-like structure hidden beneath the lakebed unveiled itself. The grand building was cloaked in an eerie black hue and covered in moss. Standing in quiet majesty, it resembled a dormant ancient colossal beast, emitting an overwhelming sense of oppression."There really is treasure here! This is fantastic!" The sight of the palace excited everyone. Judging by its size, the previous owner must have been incredi
Latest chapter
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2491
"Ledger?"Langdon's pupils contracted as he stared at the familiar red ledgers at his feet. His expression finally faltered. He had never expected the enforcement team to uncover the ledgers he had hidden in a secret compartment. Every transaction written on those pages was damning—evidence of years of collusion with officials and wealthy merchants, of bribes and embezzlement. He had kept them as leverage to ensure those officials wouldn't abandon him when things went south. But what was meant to shield him had now sealed his fate.His assets could be confiscated, and he could refuse to acknowledge his own children. But how could he possibly talk his way out of a ledger filled with his handwritten records?Langdon's frown deepened as sweat poured down his face. Before he realized it, his back was already drenched."Mr. Langdon, why are you sweating so much? Is it too hot in here? Should I have someone fan you?" Axel taunted with a sneer.The evidence they had gathered was more
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2490
"Oh? Really? Then, show them the evidence. Let everyone see for themselves." Austin said with a faint smile.Langdon swallowed hard, and a cold sweat broke out on his forehead.Had his entire past really been dug up in just half a day?"First, I investigated Mr. Langdon's assets and income sources," Axel said, pulling out a stack of documents and placing them on the table. He explained firmly, "His spending far exceeds his salary. He owns 18 luxury homes, dozens of high-end cars, and a private collection of gold, antiques, and famous paintings. "Altogether, his assets are worth tens of billions. Given his salary, it would take him several thousand years of saving every penny to afford that. So I have to ask—where did all this money come from?"The moment those words left his mouth, all eyes turned to Langdon.Everyone knew he was corrupt, but no one expected it to be on this scale. If his fixed assets alone were worth billions, his liquid assets must be even more staggering.
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2489
"And as for the rest of you, I'll be investigating each of you one by one." Austin's gaze moved past Langdon and landed on the royal advisors. He sneered and added, "You'd better keep your records clean. If I find anything on any of you, I'll handle it by the book, and there won't be any mercy."At these words, panic swept through the room. Everyone exchanged nervous glances, and their hearts pounded like war drums.As soon as they realized Austin was angry, they quickly fell silent. Langdon had always been making all the noise, but now they found themselves caught in the fire.Anyone who'd held a position like theirs usually had some skeletons in the closet. In the past, Rufus had been willing to turn a blind eye and let things slide. But now, Austin clearly wasn't following the usual rules. If he decided to investigate thoroughly, most of them would likely find their careers and reputations destroyed."Mr. Rhys, what do we do now? Lord Austin seems dead serious about this."
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2488
"Langdon, I can't tell if you're playing dumb or if you really are that stupid." Though Austin was smiling, his eyes were cold. He continued, "You asked for physical evidence, and I provided it. You asked for witnesses, and I gave you those too. Now, with both evidence and testimony laid bare, and even the criminal confessing, what else do you want?""Hmph! The government is rife with corruption. I'm simply seeking justice and preventing you from wrongfully killing the innocent." Langdon still held his righteous stance.Some of the royal advisors who had initially supported him now stayed silent. They could sense Austin's rising anger and didn't dare provoke him further. At that instant, they had lost their confidence. As Austin had pointed out, the solid evidence was right before them, and it was impossible to deny.Langdon was a member of the Rhys family and Austin's elder. He could afford to speak without a filter, but the others couldn't. If they truly angered Austin, the
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2487
"Sir Thatcher? Mr. Wentworth?" When Langdon saw their faces, his eyes went wide in disbelief. "You… How did you two end up like this?" He was genuinely stunned.Huxley and Percival were two of the most powerful figures in West Lucozia. They commanded respect wherever they went, and even Langdon himself had to show them deference.He never expected that they had fallen from their positions of prestige to become disheveled prisoners overnight."Austin! You've gone too far!" Recovering from his initial shock, Langdon's fury erupted. He didn't even bother with titles anymore. "Do you even realize what you're doing? These two men are pillars of West Lucozia and the prince's most trusted advisors. They're your elders and mentors. Yet, you tortured them like this. Are you even human?""He's right," someone chimed in. "They dedicated their lives to this country. What crime did they commit to deserve such cruelty by Your Highness?"The gathered officials erupted in outrage and condemned
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2486
"Your Highness, you mustn't speak such nonsense." Langdon put on a righteous front.He continued, "I've always prided myself on my integrity and never done anything dishonorable. I've never betrayed the prince's trust or let the people down, and I have nothing to hide.""Such lofty words," Austin scoffed. "If you have nothing to hide, why not let the enforcement team investigate?"Langdon's face tightened, and a flicker of unease crossed his eyes. After all, what official didn't have some skeletons in the closet? A full investigation would likely turn up something, no matter how small. Even if the offenses weren't serious, the damage to his reputation would be permanent.With so many officials watching, Langdon couldn't afford to back down. If he did, he would lose his standing in the political world—and his claim to integrity along with it."Go ahead and investigate." He raised his chin and said confidently, "I've lived an honest life and never engaged in anything illegal. No m
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2485
Austin sat in his chair and silently watched the royal advisors put on their pretentious act. He slowly sipped his tea as if he couldn't be bothered by their so-called accusations.His nonchalant demeanor made Langdon and the others frown. Their once-outrageous voices began to falter.They had stormed in full of righteous fury earlier, only to be met with complete apathy. What was the point of arguing when he wasn't even listening?"Are you done?" Austin finally spoke once the room had quieted down. "If not, go ahead and keep talking. Say as much as you need to until you're satisfied.""Your Highness, we're here to discuss serious matters. Your dismissive attitude is truly disappointing," Langdon said sharply."Serious matters?" Austin let out a short laugh.He went on, "You barge in here without even understanding the full picture and spewing accusations like they're facts. As far as I'm concerned, you're no different from clowns putting on a show.""You… How dare you!" Langdon
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2484
"Are you even qualified to sit while speaking to me?"Austin's words struck like the blow of a hammer. They were sharp and unrelenting, and they left no room for retort.Langdon sat frozen and was momentarily speechless. He hadn't expected a brat like Austin to have such a sharp tongue.If he admitted he had come for personal matters, he would keep his pride intact, but he would lose control of the conversation. Everything he had prepared—and all the accusations he meant to throw—would be meaningless.But if he insisted it was official business, he would have to show proper respect and offer a formal greeting. No matter how he answered, he would be conceding ground."I'll ask one more time. Are you here on official or personal matters?" Austin asked coldly."O-Official matters." Cornered, Langdon barely managed to get the words out."Well? Is this how an official conducts himself?" Austin pressed.Langdon had no choice but to rise and offer a deep bow. "Your Highness, it's an h
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2483
After a night of chaos, some of the Red Legion's members were killed, others were captured, and the entire force had been wiped out.But the fallout didn't stop there. The Prescott estate was also raided. All embezzled wealth was confiscated, and those found guilty were thrown into prison.Anyone connected to the Prescotts was placed under house arrest and subjected to rigorous investigation.And the man behind it—Warrick—had become the kingdom's most wanted fugitive.Until he was captured, Celestria remained under lockdown. Major roads were sealed off, and patrol teams scoured every corner to ensure Warrick had no way out.Austin's crackdown sparked outrage among senior officials who didn't know the full story. They voiced their dissatisfaction, with some even gathering outside the castle gates in protest. They stomped their feet in outrage, just short of openly cursing him.To them, Warrick had made great contributions to the nation. Even if he had committed crimes, he didn't d
