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Chapter 2127
Kaugnay na kabanata
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2128
A moment later, a bunch of martial artists dressed in various styles were lining up to register at the registration booth of Sacred Wrym Summit's Combat Tournament. Dustin was also among them.After they confirmed their plan, Dustin was led by Dalen and the others to the registration booth.Although the sun was going to set soon, there were still many people there to sign up.However, the Combat Tournament had specific requirements this time. One had to pass a trial to sign up.The test was simple. One must demonstrate the ability to lift a cauldron. Sacred Wrym Summit prepared three bronze cauldrons weighing ten thousand pounds, 50 thousand pounds, and 100 thousand pounds.One would be qualified if they could raise a ten thousand pound cauldron and would be assigned to Group C. If they won after competing with their peers, they could advance to Group B.Those who could raise a 50 thousand pound cauldron would be considered outstanding, directly advancing to Group B. After winn
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2129
"It's not easy to lift a 50 thousand-pound cauldron. Thousands of people register daily, but only a few can lift it!"The burly man's words caused many to doubt him.A 10 thousand-pound cauldron was way different from a 50 thousand-pound cauldron.A lot of people could easily lift a 10 thousand-pound cauldron. However, they couldn't even lift a 50 thousand-pound cauldron at all.Plus, one had to lift it over their head to succeed. It was obvious how difficult it was."You should consider it carefully. It's not easy to lift a 50 thousand-pound cauldron," the judge reminded."I've trained hard for a decade just for today. I'm determined to lift this 50 thousand-pound cauldron! You guys just need to watch me perform!" the burly man said confidently before walking over to the second cauldron.The second cauldron was twice the size of the first cauldron. It was almost 10 feet tall.One felt helpless just looking at it.The burly man walked over to the 50 thousand-pound cauldron. Af
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2130
The burly man collapsed to the ground.As he had gone beyond his limits, his blood vessels burst. After spitting out a large amount of blood, he fell unconscious.His muscles were torn, and his eyes were bloodshot. His internal meridians were also heavily injured.It would be a problem for him to get out of bed for the next few days, let alone compete."See! I said he couldn't do it, yet he still wanted to show off. Look what happened!""Indeed, not anyone can challenge the 50-thousand-pound cauldron.""He just passed the test. Now he's done it. He pushed himself too hard and even vomited blood. He truly overestimated himself!"Seeing the burly man dropping to the ground, the crowd burst into discussion. Some were laughing at him, while others pitied him.It was already impressive for him to be able to raise the ten-thousand-pound cauldron. As for the 50-thousand-pound cauldron, only those with extraordinary abilities could lift it.After all, it was two different things for o
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2131
Dustin had already altered his looks so that he didn't stand out so much. Thus, it was weird that a beautiful woman would hit on him."Melissa, the martial world is filled with dangers. Don't simply talk to strangers. There's a lot of hypocritical people in this world nowadays."At this moment, the two young men before Melissa turned to face them.One was dressed in green, while the other wore yellow.The man in green was tall and muscular, giving off an impressive air.The man in yellow was short and had a gaunt face. One would think he was malnourished. "Krel, Jimmy, this is Dustin Rhys. He's also here to participate in the Combat Tournament," Melissa quickly introduced."So many people signed up for the competition, but not all can pass the test. Some are destined to just be the spectators," the man in green, Krel Webb, replied indifferently.There was a hint of indifference in his eyes when he glanced at Dustin."Krel is right. Only a few out of many here can pass the tes
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2132
"Hmph! You must have never seen real power! You'll soon know we're a thousand times better than you!" Jimmy scoffed.Someone like Dustin, who belonged to no guild, didn't even deserve his attention. "Contestant 846 has failed. Next."Right then, the judge's loud voice sounded again.Another martial artist failed the sign-up test and left the square dejectedly."Jimmy, it's your turn next. Don't embarrass Boulderthorn," Krel said, raising his chin. Jimmy was No. 847, Krel was No. 848, and Melissa was No. 849."Don't worry. Boulderthorn's elite disciples aren't weak! If I can't even pass the first test, I might as well kill myself!" Jimmy patted his chest confidently. The cauldron-lifting test was only the most elementary test. If he couldn't even pass this level, how could he compete with the warriors of the world? How could he make a name for Boulderthorn?"Very well. Go ahead and unleash your power." Krel nodded."Krel, Melissa, just watch my performance!"Jimmy smiled p
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2133
"Hah! You worthless punk! How dare you be so arrogant!" Jimmy sneered, looking contemptuous. He continued, "You can't even lift a ten-thousand-pound cauldron. How dare you propose to lift a 50-thousand-pound cauldron? Stop bragging!""Jimmy, since he wants to lift the 50-thousand-pound cauldron, let him," Krel chimed in. "Move it in front of him. Let's see what he's capable of!"He thought Dustin was just looking for excuses to scare off Jimmy with the 50-thousand-pound cauldron."Okay! Then I'll show my power again! Let this punk know he can't lift it!" Jimmy said enthusiastically.As he spoke, he lifted the ten-thousand-pound cauldron back to the original place, then turned to the judge. "I want to challenge the 50-thousand-pound cauldron!""Contestant 844 has failed to lift it. Are you sure you want to challenge the 50-thousand-pound cauldron?" the judge asked.The cauldron-lifting test had certain risks, especially if the martial artist with insufficient strength tried to l
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2134
"You'll soon know whether I can do it or not." Dustin smiled lightly and didn't continue to argue. To him, Jimmy and Krel were just arrogant clowns."Fine, then! I'll watch you make a fool of yourself!" Jimmy glared at Dustin. If looks could kill, Dustin would be dead by now. Jimmy had never been so embarrassed before. He must teach Dustin a lesson.If Dustin couldn't even lift a ten-thousand-pound cauldron, he would take this opportunity to humiliate Dustin and vent his frustration."Jimmy, calm down. Don't lose your temper over some insignificant punk." Krel stepped forward and patted Jimmy's shoulder.He said calmly, "You have amazing speed and skills. It's normal for you to slightly lack in strength. Don't worry about it. Watch my performance next.""Krel, you must shock that punk! Show him the might of Boulderthorn's elite disciple!" Jimmy said aggressively."Rest assured. I'll make him feel utter despair." Krel smiled proudly, glancing at Dustin with deep disdain and cont
An Understated Dominance Chapter 2135
If the ten-thousand-pound cauldron hit an ordinary martial artist, he would probably die on the spot.However, Krel remained calm, facing the falling cauldron without dodging or showing any fear. It was as if it were of no concern to him. It wasn't until it was about to hit his head that he slowly stretched out a hand, easily lifting the ten-thousand-pound cauldron.After the cauldron fell slightly, he held it midair with one hand.Judging from his calm demeanor, it seemed as if he was holding cotton instead of a ten-thousand-pound cauldron."Look, he's lifting the cauldron with one hand! Krel, you're awesome!" Jimmy clapped wildly and almost jumped with excitement."Holy shit! This guy held the cauldron up with one hand? He's too strong!""There are many people who can lift a ten-thousand-pound cauldron, but he's undoubtedly the best I've ever seen!""It's Divine Strength! He's amazing!"All the martial artists couldn't help but marvel at Krel's stunning performance. They co
Pinakabagong kabanata
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
