Chapter 861
“Stop right there!” Dahlia caught up to him and grabbed his arm.
“Do you have to be like this? Can’t we have a decent talk?”
“I don’t think that’s necessary. I’m wasting my breath. Not to
mention, I’m busy. Let’s not waste each other’s time any longer,” Dustin said with little interest and headed straight for the door.
“You’re not allowed to leave!”
Dahlia suddenly hugged him from behind, holding him tightly. It was an extremely bold move coming from her, especially when she was usually aloof.
“I’m not letting you go!” Still maintaining her tight grip, she
rested her cheek on his back.
She mumbled softly, “Consider me wrong this time, okay? I know I’m difficult sometimes, but I’ll do my best to change.
“If you say Gavin is the bad guy, then he’s the bad guy. I won’t see
him ever again, alright? I’m terrified of losing you. Let’s get back
together, please.
“I won’t be stubborn anymore and won’t hit you again. I swear. As
long as you stay, I’ll do anything you tell me to.
“I don’t need wealth or power. I don’t need everything I have now.
“Why don’t we sell off the company and go on a trip? We don’t need to care about anything. Let’s just live a happy and carefree life together.
That’s enough for me. “As long as you agree, I’ll give up everything for you!” Dahlia got more frantic the more she spoke.
She had thought it through. It didn’t matter who was right or wrong.
Compared to wealth, having the person she loved the most next to her was the most important thing. She hoped to win his heart and grow old together with him.
“Dahlia, if you had said that three months ago, I would have agreed
without hesitation. But it’s too late now.” Dustin shook his head and let out a soft sigh..
“What’s done is done. Some things can never go back to how they used to be. I don’t want to return to when my life revolved around you. I’m tired of trying to please you in every way.
“I don’t want to keep worrying about you either, living every day in
anxiety. It’s too exhausting. I just want to live life my way without
burden, finding satisfaction in settling old scores.
“We’re over.” With that, he pried her arms open, slowly but
determinedly.
“Why? Why! If you’re still angry with me, you can scold and hit me,
but you can’t just walk away.
“We’re not over yet. We can still go back to how it used to be! I
won’t ever doubt you again, and I won’t ever get mad at you again. Give me a chance to turn over a new leaf, please!”
Dahlia’s eyes were red, and she choked on sobs. At this point, she
was begging. In the past, when Dustin got mad, a little coaxing would suffice.
But she felt his coldness and determination today.
Her intuition told her that letting go today would be the end for
them. She was terrified at the thought and was trying her best to make Dustin stay.
“Dahlia, just let go. Let’s not torment each other anymore. Perhaps
you’ll meet someone better in the future, but we aren’t meant for each other.
“Let’s go our own ways. Goodbye…”
After he spoke, he broke free from her grip and walked out of the
cafe. He left without looking back.
It was time to let go.
Dahlia’s heart twisted in pain as she watched him leave. She burst
into tears, sobbing uncontrollably.
“There’s no one better. No one is better than you! You are the one I
love the most!”
Chapter 862
Early the next morning, at Zephyr Lodge, Dustin sat on the rooftop
and watched the sunrise. His expression was devoid of emotion.
Since bidding farewell to Dahlia last night, he had been on the
rooftop since midnight till the sun rose in the sky.
His emotions gradually shifted from turmoil to calmness. After a
night of deep contemplation, he found a newfound sense of acceptance and detachment.
He would no longer be stuck in the “Sir Rhys…” past.
At that moment, Cornelius leaped onto the rooftop and reported, “I’ve received news that the Jade Maiden Scripture you are looking for has been located.”
“Oh? Where is it?” Dustin raised his eyebrow.
“A group of foreign merchants have it. We’ve contacted them, but
they’re unwilling to sell to us directly. They insist on meeting face–to– face,” Cornelius replied.
“A face–to–face meeting?”
Dustin nodded. “Alright, go get Nikki. We’ll go and have a look
together.”
“Yes, sir.” After Cornelius replied, he jumped down the roof again.
One hour later, a black executive car stopped at the entrance of
Auspicious Restaurant. As the car doors opened, Dustin and his two
companions stepped out.
“Hey! You didn’t trick me, did you? Is the Jade Maiden Scripture
here?” Nikki looked at the restaurant, evidently skeptical.
“Why would I lie to you for no reason? If you don’t believe me, then
let’s just go back.” Dustin turned around, about to get back into the
car.
“H–hey! Alright, I trust you. Are you happy now?”
Nikki grabbed him and grumbled, “Come on, seriously? You’re a grown man. How could react so stingily? You’re worse than a woman.”
you
“Are you going in or not?” Dustin asked impatiently.
“Yes! Of course, I’m going!” Nikki repeatedly nodded, pulling Dustin
inside with haste.
The Jade Maiden Scripture was a precious treasure of theirs and a
crucial factor in helping Edith make a breakthrough. Therefore, no matter the cost, she had to get her hands on it.
The three of them entered the restaurant. After identifying
themselves, a waiter led them to the second floor before finally stopping
in front of a luxurious private room.
They knocked, and the doors opened.
Upon entering, Dustin and his companions saw a chubby, middle–aged man seated in the main seat.
The man had a cleanly shaved head and a gentle look. He reminded them of a priest, exuding an indescribable sense of comfort and familiarity.
Meanwhile, two bodyguards wearing sunglasses stood behind him.
“Oh! My esteemed guests have arrived. Please, take a seat!”
When the chubby man saw Dustin and his companions, he stood up to welcome them. He had a warm and enthusiastic smile.
“Who are you? Do we know you?” Nikki narrowed her eyes, feeling
cautious,
“My name is Samuel Franklin. I’m new here. Our meeting today is
surely fated. It would be my pleasure to befriend you all,” The chubby
man said with a warm smile.
“No need for the pleasantries. Let’s get straight to the point. We
heard you have the Jade Maiden Scripture. Is that true?” Nikki cut to the chase.
“Of course, it’s true,” Samuel answered, smiling.
“Oh? Well, then, let me first have a look.” Nikki’s interest was
piqued.
“There’s no need to hurry. Please, have a seat and enjoy a cup of
tea. We can take a look in a little while.”
Samuel poured three cups of tea and passed them to Dustin, Nikki, and Cornelius.
“I’m not interested in your tea. Just name your price!” Nikki urged.
With her hot–tempered behavior, she had no patience for beating
around the bush or engaging in unnecessary formalities.
Even when it came to movies, she preferred the simplistic, rough–
styled movies Artea produced than the drawn–out, sluggish movies Kimboku made.
“Dear guests, please be patient. I can’t name you a price yet as a
few more buyers have yet to arrive,” Samuel said with a smile.
“More buyers are arriving?”
Chapter 863
Nikki frowned, “What do you mean? You’re not selling it directly to
us?”
“Recently, I’ve received many inquiries about the Jade Maiden
Scripture. I was in a difficult position and was unable to make a
decision.
“That was why I gathered everyone here to discuss the price
collectively. It would be fairer this way,” Samuel explained.
“Fair?”
Dustin shook his head with a smile. “Mr. Franklin, you have a gift
for words. You’re raising the price without reason yet making it sound sophisticated.”
Gathering all the buyers to discuss the price collectively was an
obvious attempt to start a bidding war. That way, the price of the Jade
Maiden Scripture would surge dramatically. It was a cunning strategy
indeed.
“You flatter me, mister. I’m a humble merchant who hopes to earn a
little extra profit.”
Samuel continued to smile even when his plan was exposed. He was good at maintaining his composure.
“Hmph! I hate people like you the most” Nikki looked at him
contemptuously.
Why couldn’t he just name a price? Those who could afford it would
pay, while those who couldn’t could just leave.
It would have been a much simpler approach. It was such a waste of
time to resort to such ways.
While they were enjoying their tea, the private room door swung open again. Then, a man with a golden mask entered with confident strides.
“It seems like another esteemed guest has arrived. Please, take a
seat.” Samuel remained hospitable and stood up to welcome him.
The man in the golden mask nodded. He was about to sit down when he noticed Dustin.
Instantly, he took a few steps backward and exclaimed in shock, “You… What are you doing here?”
“Do I know you?” Dustin asked with doubt.
The man in the golden mask gulped and realized he had lost his cool.
He put on a calm front and said impassively, “My apologies. I mistook you for someone else just now.”
“The heck? You scared me!” Nikki was upset.
He looked like he had seen a ghost as soon as he walked in. Was that
necessary?
The man in the mask took a deep breath and calmly sat. However, he
occasionally glanced at Dustin with resentment.
As time passed, a few more buyers entered the room.
Men and women were present, dressed in luxury, and carried themselves well. They were far from ordinary individuals.
“Hey, most of the buyers have arrived. Can we start now?” Nikki was getting impatient after waiting for so long.
“Please be patient, miss. We are missing one last person.” With a
gentle smile, Samuel refilled their tea, being courteous throughout.
“Who’s running late? Will we sit here all day if he doesn’t show up?”
Nikki frowned.
“What are you rushing me for? I’m here!” Just then, a well–dressed
young scion strolled in.
He was accompanied by a few arrogant women who were all dolled up. The young scion was none other than Julian Nicholson!
“Who the F*** was rushing me just now? If you don’t like waiting,
then get the hell out!” Julian held his head high, looking arrogant.
“Hey! Do you want to get beaten up?” Nikki slammed the table angrily as she stood up, her expression icy.
“Are you trying to pick a fight with me? Who the F*** do you think
you are? You’re asking for trouble!” Julian responded to Nikki in
disdain.
“She’s asking for trouble, but what if I join in?” Dustin stood up
slowly, asking with a sneer.
“What?” Julian took a closer look and was shocked.
“I–it’s you?”
“What? Are you surprised?” Dustin’s gaze was hostile.
“I haven’t had the chance to get revenge when you put me in jail. Now that we’ve crossed. paths today, don’t you think it’s time to settle the score?”
Chapter 864
“Hey! I’m warning you, don’t mess with me!” Julian took a few quick steps back in fear when he saw Dustin’s threatening posture.
He hadn’t brought any bodyguards today;
only a few pretty women came with him. It would be difficult for him to handle such a reckless fellow alone.
“Fellow guests. Please, calm down.” Samuel noticed the tension in the air.
He mediated the situation with a smile. “We’ve gathered here today
for serious business. Let’s not spoil the mood. Whatever it is, we can
discuss things calmly while seated.”
“Alright. Since Mr. Franklin has spoken up, I’ll respect that.”
Dustin nodded and settled back into his seat.
Since they came for the Jade Maiden Scripture, it was inappropriate
to fight now. He could deal with someone like Julian anytime he wanted, anyway.
“Hmph! And here I thought you had the guts. But it seems like you’re all bark!” Julian sneered. He assumed Dustin was hesitant to act because of his identity.
“You dress up so shabbily, and yet you dared challenge Mr. Nicholson?
Don’t flatter yourself!” The haughty women with Julian looked at Dustin with disdain.
“Alright, since our esteemed guests have arrived, let’s begin.” With
everyone seated, Samuel proceeded without delay and gestured.
Soon, a bodyguard opened a safe nearby and retrieved a delicately
crafted wooden box. Upon opening the wooden box, an ancient sheepskin scripture was inside.
Three unmistakable words were on the cover–Jade Maiden Scripture.
“It is the Jade Maiden Scripture!” Everyone’s eyes lit up.
Nikki, especially, was so excited that her breathing grew rapid. She
couldn’t believe that it was real.
It would have been a lie to say she didn’t have doubts about coming
here, but it was a delightful surprise!
“Fellow guests, getting my hands on this treasure wasn’t easy.”
Samuel pointed at the Jade. Maiden Scripture.
He said confidently, “I believe you should know that the Jade Maiden Scripture is an ancient. and long–lost knowledge with many secrets.
“Those who practice the ways of the Jade Maiden Scripture will not
only improve their skills. They will also live longer and maintain
eternal youth!”
As soon as they heard those words, everyone grew excited. Especially the group of women could not hide their greedy expressions.
They weren’t interested in the prospect of greatly enhanced skills.
They cared about the promise of long life and eternal youth. Every woman cared about their looks and desired to maintain a youthful look.
“Mr. Nicholson, you must not let the treasure fall into someone
else’s hands. We must take it home!” The haughty women were excited as their eyes burned with hunger.
“Don’t worry. No one will dare take it from us as long as I am here.
No one has the power to do so either!” Julian raised his head, looking
confident.
“I wonder if Miranda will be happy if I give this treasure to her as
a gift,” The man in the golden mask murmured to himself.
“Name a price; I’m taking it home with me!” Nikki was impatient.
“Its value is not up to me but to you, my fellow guests. Whatever you
suggest as the price will be the price.” Samuel smiled faintly and
reflected the question to them.
“You’re letting me decide the value of it? Alright, I’ll pay ten
million!” Julian raised his index. finger, taking the lead.
“Hmph! What’s a measly ten million? I’ll pay 50 million for it!”
“50 million for the Jade Maiden Scripture? You must be dreaming! I’ll pay 100 million!” “200 million here!”
Within a minute, the price of the Jade Maiden Scripture broke through the hundred million mark.
Everyone knew ancient and long–lost knowledge like the Jade Maiden Scripture was priceless. It couldn’t be bought with just money.
Today, their wealth would determine who takes the treasure home.
“I’m offering one billion!” With gritted teeth, Nikki raised the
price. Immediately, the voices. hushed down.
Chapter 865
Everyone glanced at Nikki, sizing her up.
“Hmph! Do you think one billion is impressive? I’ll pay 1.5 billion!”
Julian raised the bid again.
The Nicholsons may not have much of anything else, but they certainly had a lot of money.
Not to mention, recently, he was in luck and earned a few billions.
He had so much money now that he didn’t know how to spend it.
“Two billion!” Nikki would not let up.
The Jade Maiden Sisterhood had a budget of around five billion. As
long as she could get the Jade Maiden Scroll, spending it all wasn’t a
problem.
“My, my. Are you challenging me? I’m curious to see what you’re
capable of. Three billion!”
Julian thundered with confidence.
When he raised the price, several buyers gave up and left. Although
the Jade Maiden Scripture was a precious treasure, it came with a major limitation. It was only useful for women.
While spending a few hundred million to please their lover wasn’t an
issue, a few billion wasn’t worth it.
“Nikki, how much can your guild afford to pay?” Dustin asked
suddenly.
“About five billion, why?” Nikki raised an eyebrow.
“Alright, sounds good.” Dustin nodded. He raised his hand. “We’ll pay five billion.” “What?”
Many were shocked when they heard the amount. Did they think five
billion could fall from the sky? “That’s crazy? Who raises the price like that?”
“I’m done playing. What’s this nonsense of adding two billion in one
go?” Following the muttered complaints, several buyers left the room.
“Hmph! Let’s see how long you can keep up with your arrogance!” The man behind the mask stood up and left, his gaze filled with resentment.
However, he didn’t leave immediately. Instead, he found a secluded
corner and made a call.
“Hello, Miranda, I’ve spotted that guy. This time, we mustn’t let him
get away!”
Meanwhile, back inside the private room on the second floor.
As soon as they heard those words, everyone grew excited. Especially the group of women could not hide their greedy expressions.
They weren’t interested in the prospect of greatly enhanced skills.
They cared about the promise of long life and eternal youth. Every woman cared about their looks and desired to maintain a youthful look.
“Mr. Nicholson, you must not let the treasure fall into someone
else’s hands. We must take it home!” The haughty women were excited as their eyes burned with hunger.
“Don’t worry. No one will dare take it from us as long as I am here.
No one has the power to do so either!” Julian raised his head, looking
confident.
“I wonder if Miranda will be happy if I give this treasure to her as
a gift,” The man in the golden mask murmured to himself.
“Name a price; I’m taking it home with me!”
Nikki was impatient.
“Its value is not up to me but to you, my fellow guests. Whatever you
suggest as the price will be the price.” Samuel smiled faintly and
reflected the question to them.
“You’re letting me decide the value of it? Alright, I’ll pay ten
million!” Julian raised his index. finger, taking the lead.
“Hmph! What’s a measly ten million? I’ll pay 50 million for it!”
’50 million for the Jade Maiden Scripture? You must be dreaming! I’ll pay 100 million!” “200 million here!”
Within a minute, the price of the Jade Maiden Scripture broke through the hundred million mark.
Everyone knew ancient and long–lost knowledge like the Jade Maiden Scripture was priceless. It couldn’t be bought with just money.
Today, their wealth would determine who takes the treasure home.
“I’m offering one billion!” With gritted teeth, Nikki raised the
price. Immediately, the voices. hushed down.
Chapter 866
Nikki was livid and glowered at Julian. She clenched her fists,
almost losing her cool.
While Dustin remained indifferent, it was like he was staring at a
fool.
“Kid, get lost if you don’t have the money. What are you standing
around for? Waiting for someone to donate it to you?” Julian mocked.
“Hmph! You’re humiliating yourself by going up against Mr.
Nicholson.”
“It’s embarrassing that you don’t have ten billion!”
The haughty women spoke out, and they looked at Nikki with disdain.
It was as if money was just a number to them.
“All of you are too much!” Nikki seethed in anger and turned to
Dustin.
She asked him, “Dustin, how much money do you have? Lend it all to me. I will get the Jade Maiden Scripture today no matter what! I’m going to crush this guy’s arrogance thoroughly!”
“Money?” Dustin patted his pockets, then shook his head.
“Sorry, I didn’t bring any money. How about you, Cornelius?”
“Me neither.” Cornelius spread his hands out. He only had a few
pennies to his name.
“No way, you own a whole manbut don’t have any money?” Nikki frowned, skeptical.
“I don’t have any money. I have a lot of mouths to feed in my
organization. I need money to run the gang, you know? Where would I get so much money in such a short time?” Dustin expressed his helplessness.
He did have the money. He was just unwilling to lend it to Nikki.
After all, why spend money if they could get the item for free?
“Then what should we do now? Are we going to just hand over the Jade Maiden Scripture?” Nikki was getting anxious.
It was the Jade Maiden Sisterhood’s precious treasure. It was also
important for their guild’s growth.
It was with great difficulty that she finally found a lead. How could
she let it slip away into. someone else’s hands?
“Hey, beautiful. You want this scripture, don’t you?” Julian suddenly
teased. “How about this? Why don’t you follow me home and please me? You’ll get everything you want. It’s better than sticking with this poor guy, don’t you think?”
“Get lost!” Nikki glared at him. She would never sell her body.
“Beautiful, opportunities like this won’t come twice. This is a rare
chance.” Julian rubbed his chin.
He was attracted to her heroic spirit. Having been accustomed to more gentle ladies, sleeping with a dominant woman had a unique appeal.
“If you speak one more word, I’ll beat the crap out of you!” Nikki
seethed in anger.
“Hey! Why are you so dense? You should feel lucky that Mr. Nicholson has taken a liking to you. Don’t be ungrateful!”
“That’s right! With his status, you should feel honored to serve
him!”
“Hmph! What the hell? It’s so disgusting that she’s acting all high
and mighty!” The haughty women scoffed one after the other. It was a rare opportunity that others could only dream of, yet she dared to reject him?
She was stupid!
Julian waved his hand dismissively as if generously letting her off
the hook. “Never mind. Let’s not force her if she’s unwilling.”
He turned to Samuel. “Mr. Franklin, I have the highest bid here. The
Jade Maiden Scripture should belong to me now, right?”
“Of course.” Samuel nodded with a smile.
Julian spared the formalities and concluded the transaction. His
extravagant manner of spending money dazzled the haughty women.
They struck seductive poses and flirted with Julian.
“Kid, I’m taking this baby home! You can go home and eat dirt!
Hahaha!” Waving the wooden. box that contained the scripture, Julian chuckled heartily.
He was about to leave with his female companions when suddenly, the door opened. A few masked men walked in fiercely.
“Who’s Julian Nicholson?” The leader of the masked men demanded
loudly. “What the F***? How dare you call out to me impolitely? You must be asking for death!”
Chapter 867
Julian glared at the masked men, displeased with them. In public,
everyone always addressed him as Mr. Nicholson.
The audacity of these masked men to address him familiarly by his first name! “So, you’re Julian Nicholson.” After the masked man confirmed his target, his gaze turned cold.
The next thing they knew, the masked man lunged at Julian with a
knife. The sharp blade sliced into Julian’s abdomen, leaving Julian in
shock. His eyes widened in disbelief.
What on earth was going on? The masked man must be out of his mind to attack him without a word!
“Ah-!” Julian screamed in pain. He staggered back, clutching his
wound.
He was terrified. “W–who are you?”
“Your executioner!” The masked men approached Julian murderously.
“I’ve done nothing to offend you. Why do you want to kill me?” Julian broke out in cold sweat as panic overtook him..
“I was paid to kill you. It serves you right for offending Mr.
Huffner!” The leader of the masked men thundered.
“I don’t know any Preston Huffner. You must be mistaken.” Julian was taken aback. “Hmph! Are you still pretending? Mr. Huffner is from Asclepia. You disfigured him outside of Stoneray Valley not long ago. Have you forgotten already?” The leader of the masked men had a cold gaze.
“I don’t know who Preston Huffner is. You must have gotten the wrong person!”
Jullian was close to tears. Where did these crazy people come from?
Why were they trying to kill him without getting the situation straight?
“Cut the crap! You must die today for offending Mr. Huffner!” The
masked men sneered and lunged at Julian.
“Hold it right there!” One of the haughty women stood in front of him and blocked his way.
She protested. “You bastards! Do you know who Mr. Nicholson is? Do you know his. background? If you dare t-!”
Before she could finish, the masked man had slashed her to death.
Blood sprayed across the table. It was a shocking sight.
“Ah!” The other women screamed in fear, distancing themselves from Julian. They were afraid of getting caught in the attack.
“Kill him!” The masked men brandished their knives and started
slashing at Julian.
“I don’t know who Preston Huffner is. I didn’t disfigure him. You
guys are attacking the wrong person!”
Julian cowered and wailed as they continued slashing him. Very soon,
he was covered in bloody cuts.
Despite his pleas for mercy and explanations, the masked men attacked relentlessly.
“Preston Huffner?” Dustin raised an eyebrow, a playful smile on his
lips. He had casually mentioned Julian’s name when he attacked Preston previously. He didn’t expect it to cause the situation before him to happen.
“Save me!” Suddenly, Julian, who was covered in blood, rushed toward Dustin.
He begged by Dustin’s feet. “Please, save me!”
“Save you? Since when were we friends?” Dustin smiled cheekily.
you save me, I’ll give you the Jade Maiden Scripture!” Julian spat
out blood, then handed over the wooden box to Dustin.
He knew Dustin was good at fighting. Only Dustin could save him now. “Alright. Since you’ve shown sincerity, I’ll save you this once.”
Dustin nodded, receiving the wooden box.
“That’s great!” Julian lit up in joy.
He then pointed at the masked men. “Kill them!” “Don’t misunderstand. I only said I’d save you. I never said I would kill for you.” Dustin corrected him.
“What? What do you mean by that?” Julian was dumbfounded.
“Mr. Adler, call Mr. Nicholson an ambulance immediately,” Dustin
instructed.
“An ambulance? You F***-” Julian was infuriated and was about to
erupt in rage when the masked men lunged at him, killing him instantly.
Chapter 868
Julian died a regretful death. After killing him, the masked men left
without any words.
Dustin, who was the reason for his death, got his revenge. Not only
that, but he got the Jade. Maiden Scripture that was worth ten billion.
It was worth celebrating.
He guessed that the masked man who left earlier was Preston.
Otherwise, he wouldn’t have. reacted like that when he saw Dustin.
“Congratulations to the three of you. Luck is on your side.” Samuel
clasped his hands, smiling as usual.
“Mr. Franklin, thanks to you, we got a great deal.” Dustin returned
the smile with a knowing look.
Samuel had remained silent the entire time, evidently hoping Julian
would meet his end so that he could reclaim the Jade Maiden Scripture.
It was a pity that it ended up in their hands instead.
“May I ask for your name?” Samuel asked respectfully.
“Dustin Rhys.”
“Mr. Rhys, you don’t seem like an ordinary person, given your manner of speech. I hope we can work together again in the future.” Samuel extended an olive branch.
Dustin raised an eyebrow. “How do you intend us to work together, Mr. Franklin?”
“I mainly specialize in gathering information and trading rare
treasures. I can assist you if you need help in those areas.” Samuel
smiled.
“Is that so? I am facing two difficulties now. I wonder if you can
give me an answer for them.” Dustin flashed a smile.
“Please, go ahead.” Samuel nodded his head.
“Firstly, I’d like to know who assassinated Paul Hill. Secondly, I’d
like to know about the whereabouts of Cherusia. If you have any
information on those, I’m willing to offer a high price,” Dustin stated
frankly.
Samuel was not an ordinary man if he could locate the Jade Maiden
Scripture that quickly. For all they knew, they might find surprising
information with his information network.
Samuel smiled. “I will look into your request, Mr. Rhys. I’ll notify
you immediately once I have. news.” “Thank you,
we’ll be leaving now.” Dustin nodded and left soon after.
“Hahaha… We got the Jade Maiden Scripture without spending any money!
This is fantastic!” Nikki was excited on the way back.
She had thought she was going to lose the treasure. The result came
as a surprise.
“There seems to be something off about this scripture.” Dustin was
puzzled as he looked at the sheepskin scripture in his hands.
He’d studied various ancient texts since he was young. He recognized
the cultivation methods. in the Jade Maiden Scripture from a different book he’d read.
Not to mention, he was extremely well–versed in those teachings.
However, that book wasn’t called the Jade Maiden Scripture.
What caught his attention was that the contents of the scripture in
his hands were incomplete.
“What’s off about it? Could this treasure be fake?” Nikki was taken
aback and grew nervous.
Dustin shook his head. “It’s not exactly fake, but rather,
incomplete.”
“Incomplete?” Nikki frowned and took the sheepskin scripture from
him.
She carefully flipped through it and said, “Where’s the missing part?
It looks complete to me. Come on, don’t just speak nonsense!”
“It’s not just the content that’s incomplete. There’s something wrong
with the cover too. It seems like there’s something hidden inside it. Why
don’t we open it up?” Dustin rubbed his chin.
The front and back covers of the scripture had different thicknesses.
Though the difference. was minor, he still noticed when he touched the scripture.
“Hey! I’m warning you not to mess around!” Nikki hugged the sheepskin scripture. protectively, close to her chest.
“This is the Jade Maiden Sisterhood’s precious treasure. Will you be
able to bear the responsibility if it is damaged?”
Julian died a regretful death. After killing him, the masked men left
without any words.
Dustin, who was the reason for his death, got his revenge. Not only
that, but he got the Jade. Maiden Scripture that was worth ten billion.
It was worth celebrating.
He guessed that the masked man who left earlier was Preston.
Otherwise, he wouldn’t have. reacted like that when he saw Dustin.
“Congratulations to the three of you.
Luck is on your side.” Samuel
clasped his hands, smiling as usual.
“Mr. Franklin, thanks to you, we got a great deal.” Dustin returned
the smile with a knowing look. Samuel had remained silent the entire time, evidently hoping Julian
would meet his end so that he could reclaim the Jade Maiden Scripture. It was a pity that it ended up in their hands instead.
“May I ask for your name?” Samuel asked respectfully.
“Dustin Rhys.”
“Mr. Rhys, you don’t seem like an ordinary person, given your manner of speech. I hope we can work together again in the future.” Samuel extended an olive branch.
Dustin raised an eyebrow. “How do you intend us to work together, Mr. Franklin?”
“I mainly specialize in gathering information and trading rare
treasures. I can assist you if you need help in those areas.” Samuel
smiled.
“Is that so? I am facing two difficulties now. I wonder if you can
give me an answer for them.” Dustin flashed a smile.
“Please, go ahead.” Samuel nodded his head.
“Firstly, I’d like to know who assassinated Paul Hill. Secondly, I’d
like to know about the whereabouts of Cherusia. If you have any
information on those, I’m willing to offer a high price,” Dustin stated
frankly.
Samuel was not an ordinary man if he could locate the Jade Maiden
Scripture that quickly. For all they knew, they might find surprising
information with his information network.
Samuel smiled. “I will look into your request, Mr. Rhys. I’ll notify
you immediately once I have.
news.”
“Thank you,
we’ll be leaving now.” Dustin nodded and left soon after.
“Hahaha… We got the Jade Maiden Scripture without spending any money!
This is fantastic!” Nikki was excited on the way back.
She had thought she was going to lose the treasure. The result came
as a surprise.
“There seems to be something off about this scripture.” Dustin was
puzzled as he looked at the sheepskin scripture in his hands.
He’d studied various ancient texts since he was young.
He recognized the cultivation methods. in the Jade Maiden Scripture from a different book he’d read.
Not to mention, he was extremely well–versed in those teachings.
However, that book wasn’t called the Jade Maiden Scripture.
What caught his attention was that the contents of the scripture in
his hands were incomplete.
“What’s off about it? Could this treasure be fake?” Nikki was taken
aback and grew nervous.
Dustin shook his head. “It’s not exactly fake, but rather,
incomplete.”
“Incomplete?” Nikki frowned and took the sheepskin scripture from
him.
She carefully flipped through it and said, “Where’s the missing part?
It looks complete to me.
Come on, don’t just speak nonsense!”
“It’s not just the content that’s incomplete. There’s something wrong
with the cover too. It seems like there’s something hidden inside it. Why don’t we open it up?” Dustin rubbed his chin.
The front and back covers of the scripture had different thicknesses.
Though the difference. was minor, he still noticed when he touched the scripture.
“Hey! I’m warning you not to mess around!” Nikki hugged the sheepskin scripture. protectively, close to her chest.
“This is the Jade Maiden Sisterhood’s precious treasure. Will you be
able to bear the responsibility if it is damaged?”
Chapter 869
“I was just saying. You don’t have to open it if you don’t want to.”
Dustin shrugged.
Although the Jade Maiden Scripture was impressive, it was only
suitable for women. It had no use for him. He was only interested to see it because of his curiosity.
“Hmph! Smart move!” Nikki breathed a sigh of relief. It was embarrassing to admit, but it was thanks to Dustin that she could get her hands on the Jade Maiden Scripture.
When they returned, she would put in a good word for him with Madam Edith and ensure he was rewarded accordingly.
Twenty minutes later, the car stopped at the entrance of Zephyr Lodge. They had just exited the car when Brittany and a few disciples rushed up to them excitedly. “Nikki, I heard you found the Jade Maiden Scripture. Where is it? Let me see!” Brittany was unable to hide the excitement on her face.
“It’s right here, have a look.” Nikki passed the box containing the
Jade Maiden Scripture to her.
Brittany’s excitement grew as she studied the scripture. “It is the
Jade Maiden Scripture. This is great!”
“Congratulations, Brittany! You found our treasure!” The disciples
behind her praised her.
“All of you had a hand in finding the scripture!” Brittany said as
she flipped through the scripture. She was thrilled.
“Brittany, we could only get our hands on it thanks to Dustin.” Nikki
attempted to give Dustin. credit.
“Hmm?” Brittany swept a glance at Dustin.
She looked at Dustin arrogantly. “Hmph! You finally caved in? Have
you finally realized you should be pleasing me? You men are always saying one thing but meaning another!”
“Let me make it clear. My actions have nothing to do with you,”
Dustin clarified immediately.
“You’re still being stubborn? Why would you be so enthusiastic about finding the scripture if you aren’t in love with me? I’ve seen through you, so stop pretending!”
Brittany raised her head, looking proud. Dustin was rendered speechless. He wondered where her confidence came from. She could twist any situation to make it all about herself and speak as if it
was a fact.
“Fine, given that you went through all that trouble for me, I won’t
hold your past mistake against you anymore. Starting today, I’ll allow you to be my fanboy,” Brittany said in a naughty tone.
“Hey, what are you doing just standing there? Hurry up and thank
her!” “You’re lucky that you’re getting a chance to please Brittany. You must cherish it!” A few disciples crossed their arms, looking like Dustin had struck gold.
Dustin rolled his eyes. He couldn’t bother wasting his time with a
bunch of lunatics.
“What’s going on here?” Just then, Edith strolled in with an old
woman. Their proud demeanor made it seem like royalty was arriving.
“Madam Edith, you arrived just in time. We have good news. We found the Jade Maiden Scripture!” Brittany excitedly passed the sheepskin scripture to her.
“You found it?” Madam Edith was astounded. She took a closer look,
instantly, her expression turned to joy.
“It is the Jade Maiden Scripture. This is great! Who found it? I’ll have to reward them handsomely!”
“I found it, Madam Edith! I went through a lot of trouble to obtain
this precious treasure. I didn’t disappoint, did 1?” Brittany stepped up. She didn’t hesitate to take all the credit. Nikki was stunned by her
words.
Chapter 870
“Brittany?” Nikki looked at her in disbelief.
She couldn’t believe Brittany would say something like that. All she
did was greet them by the door, yet she had taken all the credit for
herself.
It was unfair, especially when Brittany didn’t mention a word about
their efforts.
“What?” Dustin frowned slightly. Although he wasn’t expecting to be
acknowledged, it still annoyed him to be put in such a situation.
“You did great, Brittany. I knew you wouldn’t disappoint.” Edith
nodded in gratitude.
“I’ll remember your achievement. Once I’ve mastered the Jade Maiden Scripture’s teachings, I’ll pass them on to you!”
“Thank you, Madam Edith!” Brittany lit up in joy.
This was what she had been waiting for. There was nothing more
valuable than being taught personally by her mentor.
“Brittany, I believe there’s something you forgot to mention,” Nikki
reminded her.
As a fellow disciple, she didn’t mind not being rewarded. After all,
they were all working for Madam Edith.
However, Dustin had gone through all that trouble. She couldn’t allow him to be treated. unfairly.
“What? Did I say something wrong?” Brittany gave her a warning
glance.
As a senior disciple, she intended to be the first to reap the
benefits. So what if she stole credit? Who would dare challenge her?
“Brittany,
Dustin was the one who found the Jade Maiden Scripture.
You shouldn’t disregard his efforts, don’t you think?” Nikki frowned.
“What?” Brittany’s expression darkened.
“Save the nonsense, Nikki. I was the one who found it. You should
think before you speak. You must have been mistaken.” Brittany’s words carried a hint of threat.
“I’m not mistaken. It was Dustin who found it!”
Nikki was firm. “I saw it with my own eyes. Dustin was the one who
found the scripture’s whereabouts and helped us obtain it!”
The rest of the disciples looked at the two worriedly. It seemed like
Nikki was challenging Brittany’s authority.
“How dare you!” Brittany glared at Nikki, enraged.
“Nikki Horst, are you questioning me?” Brittany roared.
“I’m just speaking the truth.” Nikki lowered her head slightly, but
her gaze remained unyielding.
“The truth? Hmph! You’re just trying to undermine me!” Brittany’s
expression soured.
“We’re guild members, and I can’t believe you’d challenge me on
behalf of an outsider!”
With her seniority in the guild, no one dared talk back to her, even
when she was oppressive and unjust.
She couldn’t believe Nikki questioned her publicly and embarrassed
her. Nikki should have known her place!
“Brittany, don’t you have a conscience? We can’t just ignore it when
Dustin helped us out,” Nikki reasoned.
“Shut up!” Brittany’s temper flared, and she slapped Nikki hard
across the face.
She screamed, “Who the hell do you think you are? How dare you
lecture me?”
“You!” Nikki bit her lips, feeling wronged. Her face was swollen from the slap.
Just then, Edith finally spoke up, “Enough! We’re all members of the
same guild. There’s not need to argue about a small matter.”
“Madam Edith, I’m telling the truth.
Dustin handed the Jade Maiden Scripture to me personally before I handed it to Brittany!” Nikki tried to explain.
“Do you have proof?” Edith asked impassively.
“The other disciples saw what happened. They can vouch for me!” Nikki pointed at them.
“Oh, is that so?” Edith looked over lazily at the other disciples. “Madam Edith is asking a question. All of you must answer truthfully!” Brittany’s expression was icy, and her gaze was hostile.
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