AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
"I..." Abigail's words left Ruby speechless, and she blushed. Ruby suddenly realized she was too naive.
Grudges and alliances often defied reason in the martial world-either kill or be killed.
If Luke intended to kill Abigail, then it was only natural for her to defend herself by retaliating against him. Her actions were justified.
Furthermore, as Abigail pointed out, those who acted solely for profit were hardly virtuous. Therefore, it was not worthwhile to advocate for justice on their behalf.
"Ruby, judging by your demeanor, you're likely new to the martial world," Abigail began. "Holding onto your good intentions is commendable, but you must choose your allies wisely. Blindly playing the role of a saint will only bring harm to yourself and others." She offered a knowing smile. "Let's let bygones be bygones. There's no need to let tension brew between us over strangers' affairs. Come, let's continue with our drinks." Then, she lifted her glass and nodded toward Ruby.
Ruby hesitated briefly before raising her glass and downing its contents.
As the tension dissipated after the brief commotion, the atmosphere in the tavern returned to its former merriment as if nothing had happened. Laughter and chatter resumed, accompanied by the clinking of glasses. Meanwhile, members of the Mystic Arts Order swiftly cleaned up the aftermath outside the tavern.
With the streets littered with bodies and blood, they worked diligently to erase any traces of the night's violence. Even if their actions were in self-defense, they had to ensure no lingering consequences.
For them, preserving their reputation and ensuring their gambling activities could continue uninterrupted was paramount.
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As the night swiftly progressed to morning, the atmosphere at Sacred Wrym Summit remained lively.
Even at this early hour, the venue buzzed with anticipation as crowds filled every available space. They were eagerly awaiting the start of the tournament.
To capitalize on profits, Abigail invested a significant sum to secure a prspot. She had set up ten gambling tables to accommodate the growing number of gamblers.
With an extensive range of wagers available, covering everything from match outcomes to timing and fighting styles, the variety offered was unparalleled.
Additionally, she had arranged for crates of celestial stones to be delivered overnight from the Mystic Arts Order for the preparations.
In contrast to the trivial disputes on the previous day, Abigail appeared resolute to leave a lasting impression this time.
With tens of thousands of spectators, including elite members from various major sects, gathering at the Sacred Wrym Summit, there was ample opportunity for profit.
For Abigail, cultivating these potential gamblers would lead to untold wealth. She naturally had taken precautions just in case.
Sacred Wrym Summit had turned a blind eye to the gambling activities as long as they didn't disrupt the tournaments.
This provided Abigail with the perfect environment to make a profit. Thus, her new round of harvesting commenced.
While Abigail busied herself with her schemes in the tournament venue, Dustin was not around.
Rather than joining the crowd at Sacred Wrym Summit, he ventured alone to a secluded, unfamiliar location.
His decision was influenced by a letter he found slipped under his door that morning. The letter's content was simple. It was a request for a private meeting.
Normally, Dustin would have dismissed such a request without much thought. However, this twas different. The letter bore a peculiar mark-a distinct emblem of the Hall of Gods, West Lucozia's archenemy.
Over the years, the Hall of Gods had been relentless in their efforts to sow discord and assassinate key figures within the palace. Their reason was to hinder Dragonmarsh's development.
Dustin vividly recalled their audacious attempt to assassinate Rufus in Swinton, where they had even deployed the Four Gods and a God King.
Despite their failure on that occasion, the Hall of Gods persisted in their clandestine machinations. But their sudden appearance near Sacred Wrym Summit hinted at hidden agendas.
Dustin pondered why the Hall of Gods members sought him out before he had revealed his identity. To uncover the mystery, he reluctantly agreed to the meeting.
Following the instructions in the letter, he arrived at a private estate.
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The sprawling mansion, adorned with opulent decorations, resembled a grand courtyard-style name, its imposing gates and intricate facade reflecting the wealth and influence of its owner. He approached and rapped gently on the scarlet doors.
The door cracked open with a creak. A beautiful maid with an exotic air peered out, and she asked, "May I ask who you're looking for?" "I've been invited to a private meeting." Dustin presented the emblem from the letter.
"Ah, a distinguished guest. Please, cin," she said. She smiled as she swung the door wider and gestured for him to enter.
He nodded and entered without saying anything.
They walked through the garden and across a bridge adorned with faux rocks until they reached the entrance to the living room.
"Please wait here for a moment, sir.
My master will join you shortly "The maid offered a polite bow before excusing herself and leaving swiftly. Dustin entered the living room and noticed it was already occupied by over a dozen individuals.
The room was filled with men and women of diverse appearances that looked imposing.
It was clear that any of them could be an advanced-level divine martial artist, and smight even be grandmasters level.
"It appears I'm not the only one who received an invitation," Dustin mused as he discreetly surveyed the room. He remained composed and chose to sit at the far end. "Hey! Who the hell allowed you to sit there?" Suddenly, a burly man with a thick beard rose abruptly. He slammed his hand onto the table and glared at Dustin menacingly.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2212
"Huh?" Dustin was taken aback by the sudden outburst and felt a bit bewildered.
He glanced around the living room and noticed the intense glare from the burly man, Donny Zedd. Then, he asked tentatively, "Are you talking to me?" "Who else would I be talking to?" Donny shot back.
He glared at Dustin and shouted, "Don't you have any manners? You waltz in here without so much as a 'hello' and plop yourself down like you own the place. Do you have no respect for us?" "Manners?" Dustin arched an eyebrow skeptically.
He replied icily, "Do we even know each other? Why should I bother with pleasantries? And even if I don't hold you in high regard, what's it to you?" "Hey! Are you looking for trouble, kid?" Donny bristled with anger, ready to throw a punch, but was intercepted by a man in white, Lucian Whitman, with a sly grin.
"Easy there, don't get all worked up. This kid just seems clueless about etiquette. Let's show him the ropes. No need for violence, especially with the host around. We wouldn't want to cause any awkwardness." Lucian motioned for Donny to take a seat, then turned his gaze to Dustin with a friendly smile." You must be new around here. Letfill you in on the customs.
"You know, in these circles, it's customary to show a little respect to your elders. A nod, a greeting, nothing too demanding, right?" Dustin responded calmly, "If you truly are martial world veterans, a simple greeting would suffice. But your actions lack the dignity one would expect. The way you intimidate others, one might mistake you for bandits." Lucian's smile faltered at Dustin's words, and a glint of annoyance flickered in his eyes.
Meanwhile, Donny slammed his hand on the table. He rose to his feet and roared, "You disrespectful bastard! Tto learn smanners the hard way!" "If you don't know how to show sbasic respect, then you're on your own." Lucian shook his head and returned to his seat.
The others chuckled, and they were enjoying the spectacle.
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In the past, a rookie had swaggered in, exuding the scocky arrogance. However, in the end, he was unceremoniously dragged out by his heels.
I'd advise you to tread carefully. Otherwise, you'll regret it," Dustin warned.
He had intended to keep a low profile and observe if there were any conspiracies within the Hall of Gods. But as soon as he walked in, he encountered these troublemakers.
"Regret? Ha! I bet you won't change your tune until you're six feet under!" Donny sneered, wasting no tas he lunged forward with a punch aimed straight at Dustin's face.
The punch cfast and furious, and the air whistled with force.
Dustin remained unfazed. He easily caught the incoming fist just before it could make contact with his face.
"Huh?" Donny's eyes widened in surprise. Though he hadn't gone all out just now, he had still put about 70 percent of his true energy into that punch.
Such a blow would have seriously injured most ordinary martial artists. Yet, Dustin effortlessly caught his fist, which struck him as rather strange.
"With such limited skill, you're still bold enough to be so cocky. You really don't know your own limitations." Dustin snorted coldly.
With a sudden, forceful grip of his fingers, he twisted Donny's fist, and all his bones were shattered.
"Ah!" Donny froze momentarily before releasing a blood-curdling scream that pierced the air.
"Get lost!" Dustin shouted and kicked him in the abdomen.
Donny was sent flying several yards. He crashed into the wall, coughing up blood and wailing in agony. "What?" Everyone's expression changed as they witnessed this scene.
No one expected Dustin to be so formidable that he could send Donny flying with just one blow.
It was worth noting that Donny was at the advanced-level divine martial artist stage, which made him quite a prominent figure in the martial world.
"Punk! How dare you act so recklessly! Who gave you the courage to attack someone?" After a moment of shock, everyone rose from their seats. Their expressions were filled with anger and resentment.
Although they didn't have a deep bond with Donny, they were at least acquaintances.
Now, a newcomer who didn't know his place dared to challenge their authority. It was something they couldn't tolerate.
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Dustin sneered. "When he attacked just now, you all turned a blind eye.
ΟΜ Now that I've defeated him, you're all here cursing and jumping around. What's this? You only allowto be beaten but not to fight back?" His words angered them.
"Look at the way you talk! I think you need a lesson!" "Everyone, let's not waste any time. Let's take this kid down!" Several hot-tempered martial artists shouted and were ready to make a move.
"Hold on." At this moment, a dignified voice suddenly rang out. The speaker was an elderly man with a white beard seated at the head of the table on the left.
The elder was thin, had piercing eyes, and looked imposing. Just uttering two words made the previously hot-tempered martial artists immediately stop in their tracks. They stood respectfully by the side without daring to utter another word.
After calming everyone down, the elder picked up a cup and leisurely took a sip of tea.
He said lightly, "Young man, too much aggression can easily lead to downfall. Since you're still young and inexperienced, I won't hold it against you too much. Now, apologize to everyone, and we'll let this matter slide."
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2213
"Elder Mason, you think an apology will cut it? Aren't you letting this punk off too easy?" "Yeah, just look at Donny. He's coughing up blood. If we let this slide, what'll happen to our reputation?" "Elder Mason, this punk deserves punishment. Even if we spare his life, he shouldn't escape justice. In my opinion, we should break his legs first!" Everyone voiced their anger. Their eyes burned with hostility as they glared at Dustin.
"What's wrong? Don't my words mean anything to you?" The elder raised his head and glanced at everyone. His expression was calm yet commanding.
That single glance had the power to silence everyone present. It instilled fear in them that prevented anyone from expressing discontent.
After all, the elder was Garrett Mason, the infamous Cosmos Demons. He was a grandmaster martial artist, feared and renowned throughout the land.
He was known to be merciless, as he would wipe out entire families at the slightest provocation.
Just mentioning his nwas enough to instill fear in the martial world. Hence, none dared to act out of turn when facing Garrett.
"Young man, what are you waiting for? Apologize now," Garrett urged. His tone was plain but firm.
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"Did I say I was going to apologize?" Dustin remained composed.
He added, "They were the ones who started it. I don't see why I should apologize. If anyone owes an apology, it's them to me." Dustin's words sparked further outrage among the crowd.
How dare he strike first and then act like he was in the right? They would have taught him a lesson if Garrett wasn't here. "Hmm?" Garrett frowned slightly at Dustin's response.
He appeared displeased. "Young man, I'm giving you a chance here. Without my intervention, you'd already be at their mercy. Think carefully now. Do you want to apologize?" "I appreciate the offer, but I won't be apologizing to them," Dustin replied firmly.
"Hmph! Ignorant fool!" Garrett's expression turned cold. "Since you're so stubborn, I won't interfere anymore. Let's see how tough you are!" With a nod to Lucian beside him, Garrett signaled his intent.
Lucian picked up on the subtle cue, and his expression shifted to one of aggression.
"You punk! Elder Mason tried to be civil, but you're too arrogant to see that. Looks like you won't learn until you're put in your place!" Lucian snapped his fingers. "Guys, teach him a lesson! Don't stop until he begs for mercy!" As soon as the command was given, several burly men exchanged glances and lunged forward with malicious grins.
They had been itching for an opportunity to put Dustin in his place, and now they wouldn't hold back.
"You little punk! Today, I'm going to make sure you regret crossing us!" "Arrogant kid! I'll show you who's boss around here!" The men shouted as they simultaneously launched a barrage of punches and kicks directed at Dustin.
Having learned their lesson from Dustin's fight with Donny, they knew better than to hold back. They unleashed their full force to end the fight quickly.
"What a bunch of clowns." Dustin scoffed.
He stood firm as the punches and kicks chis way. In an instant, his body trembled, and a surge of true energy burst forth. There was a loud blast as a powerful wave of energy erupted from his body and slammed into his assailants with tremendous force.
"Ah!" The men cried out in pain as they were sent flying several yards away.
They crashed onto the ground and spat out blood as their faces drained of color. They couldn't even muster the strength to stand.
"How can this be happening?" Lucian was taken aback, and his eyes widened in disbelief.
The other martial artists were equally dumbfounded. They couldn't comprehend what they had just witnessed.
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They had thought Donny had underestimated Dustin and held back, which was why he lost.
The men Dustin faced were at the slevel as Donny. They hadn't expected that they would be gravely injured by his counterattack.
It was unbelievable. They began to ponder how strong Dustin was.
"Huh?" Even Garrett, a grandmaster martial artist, raised an eyebrow in surprise.
Dustin must be at least halfway to the grandmaster level to take down several advanced-level fighters with just one move. And considering Dustin's young age, likely in his 20s, his potential seemed limitless. Garrett finally understood that Dustin had the skills to back up his confidence.
"Anyone else feeling lucky?" Dustin stood confidently with his hands behind his back.
His gaze was cool and commanding.
He knew he could assert his om assent his dominance against these opponents to keep them in line. If he didn't, they'd just keep coming at him. "Elder Mason?" After a moment of disbelief, Lucian turned to Garrett for assistance.
Dustin's strength had far surpassed Garrett's expectations. He wouldn't even fancy his chances of a fight against Dustin now. Only a grandmaster-level martial artist could hope to subdue Dustin.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2214
"Kid, you've certainly surprisedwith your skills," Garrett admitted as he stood up slowly.
He continued, "But that doesn't justify your boldness in my presence with your limited skills." As he spoke, an imposing energy surged from within him.
The martial artists felt the air grow heavy, and each breath beca struggle.
"This grandmaster's strength is no laughing matter! Is this what Elder Mason is capable of?" They couldn't help feeling a mix of awe and apprehension. Just a mere display of power had them rooted in place. After all, that was the might of a grandmaster martial artist.
Despite the tension in the air, Dustin stayed composed. His eyes locked on Garrett's with unwavering resolve. "You've got talent, kid." Garrett stood with his hands clasped behind his back.
He added arrogantly, "I'm willing to offer you another chance. I'll let this incident slide if you swallow your pride and apologize. I might even make an exception and take you under my wing." "What? Take him as a disciple?" The others exchanged bewildered glances.
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"How on earth did this kid manage to impress Elder Mason?" "With Elder Mason as his mentor, this kid might start acting like he's above everyone else in the martial world." "Too bad I didn't luck into that golden opportunity." Murmurs filled the room. It was thick with envy and bitterness as everyone looked at Dustin.
Garrett Mason was one of the infamous Cosmos Demons and a grandmaster martial artist with unrivaled strength. His ncommanded respect and fear in the martial world.
He had strict standards when it cto taking on disciples. Unexpectedly, he made a rare exception and offered to mentor an inexperienced kid like Dustin.
"What are you waiting for, kid? Elder Mason's offering to take you as his disciple is a rare opportunity. Don't just stand there. Show him your gratitude now," Lucian reminded Dustin.
Though Garrett's decision irked him, he dared not oppose it.
"Letclarify two things," Dustin said calmly. "Firstly, I haven't done anything wrong, so apologizing is out of the question. And secondly, I have absolutely no interest in becoming anyone's disciple." Huh?" Garrett's frown deepened, and his expression turned grim.
He had been sought after as a mentor for years but had never actively offered mentorship before. But when he finally extended the offer, he never expected Dustin to reject it.
Naturally, Garrett felt irked by the unexpected refusal.
"Kid, do you have any idea what you're saying? Being chosen by Elder Mason is like hitting the jackpot. I didn't expect you to be so ungrateful." "Exactly! Getting the chance to be Elder Mason's disciple is something people would kill for. Who do you think you are to refuse it?" "Geez! You're sitting on a goldmine and don't even realize it!" Seeing Garrett's displeasure, the others burst into angry reproaches. Their expressions twisted with a sense of righteous indignation.
A grandmaster had extended the offer to take on a disciple, but it was turned down in front of everyone. If word of this got out, it would undoubtedly beca subject of mockery.
Garrett began, "Do you have any idea who I am? People ctoall the tand beg to be my disciple, like I'm a God. But I've never taken them seriously.
"Now, I'm offering you a chance to rise above the rest, but you're pushing it away. So, letask you one last time. Do you want to be my disciple?" His tone turned serious, and he gazed sharply at Dustin. As he spoke, the pressure emanating from him suddenly intensified.
The people nearby felt like they had been hit by lightning. Sweat dripped down their faces as they struggled to catch their breath. Some, with weaker constitutions, trembled with fear. The power of a grandmaster could cause havoc within arm's reach. Just the weight of this imposing presence was chilling.
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"Whether others choose to be your disciple is up to them. But I have no interest in being one," Dustin replied firmly.
"Fine! You've gone too far now!" Garrett's expression darkened, and his eyes flashed with anger.
He continued, "You've turned to violence today, and I was willing to overlook it. But your lack of gratitude and repeated refusals have changed my mind. Don't blme for showing you stough love!"
Then, he stomped the ground with force. It caused cracks to spiderweb out across the floor. Simultaneously, a surge of powerful internal energy erupted from within him. The force threw those nearby off balance. Swere sent flying, and their wailing echoed in the air.
When Garrett's internal energy collided with Dustin, it was deflected by an unseen force. Hence, Dustin was protected from harm.
"Elder Mason, I'd advise against getting physical. Let's not escalate things unnecessarily. It wouldn't reflect well on you," Dustin warned calmly.
He preferred to keep the situation from spiraling out of control. But if Garrett insisted on confrontation, Dustin was ready to stand his ground.
"Arrogant brat! I'll teach you smanners!" Enraged by Dustin's defiance, Garrett unleashed his internal energy and struck Dustin from above.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2215
Garrett struck his palm toward Dustin. A thunderous crash echoed through the room, changing the surrounding area.
A white shadow palm surged forward with the force of lightning and pressed on Dustin. Accompanied by the fierce howling wind, everything seemed to warp as it tore through the air.
Everyone in the room turned pale with fear. They scattered in all directions to avoid being caught in the chaos. After all, the sheer power of a grandmaster martial artist was enough to kill them with a single blow.
Despite Garrett's attack, Dustin didn't flinch. His expression remained composed. But as he prepared to retaliate, a commanding shout interrupted.
"Stop!" Suddenly, another burst of internal energy materialized into a shadow palm as it shot from the doorway. It narrowly missed Dustin before colliding with Garrett's shadow palm.
The impact echoed with a loud crash, unleashing a torrent of terrifying energy. The living room quaked violently as the furniture splintered and drinks splashed over.
The martial artists around were thrown about like rag dolls in a storm. They crashed and tumbled helplessly.
The impact knocked Garrett back several steps, and his expression turned sour. "Who dares?" He frowned as he gazed toward the doorway.
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Soon, a refined middle-aged man entered. He was dressed in a sleek black suit with gold-rimmed glasses. "Elder Mason," the middle-aged man greeted with a faint smile.
He continued, "We've all journeyed a long way to gather here today, and everyone in this room is an acquaintance. Let's not let a minor issue escalate into something more." Despite his unassuming demeanor, he exuded an air of mystery.
"And you are?" Garrett's eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the middle-aged man.
The fact that the man had countered his strike suggested he, too, was a grandmaster martial artist. However, Garrett couldn't recall ever encountering him before.
"I'm Hank Styles, a member of the Hall of Gods," the middle-aged man introduced himself. "Today, I've gathered everyone to discuss matters of importance." "Hank Styles?" Everyone exchanged confused glances as the nwas unfamiliar to them.
"I'm the newly appointed god of the Hall of Gods. I've only taken up the position a few months ago, so it's understandable if you haven't heard ofyet," Hank said, displaying his identity badge to them.
"It's been a while since I've encountered the elites of the Hall of Gods. You certainly live up to their reputation." Garrett's expression softened as he acknowledged Hank's identity.
He wasn't surprised that Hank had been able to go toe-to-toe with him earlier, considering that all members of the Hall of Gods were grandmasters.
"Oh, it's you, Mr. Styles. My apologies for the oversight." Lucian led the group of martial artists and greeted him respectfully.
In the esteemed Hall of Gods, the god was revered above all others. Their power and authority were unquestionable. They could determine anyone's fate with a single word.
"Elder Mason, everyone gathered here are my esteemed guests. The incident earlier was just a minor misunderstanding.
"How about we extend sgrace to each other and turn things around for the better?" Hank suggested with a smile.
"Since you have spoken, I won't argue with this kid." Garrett shot a wary glance at Dustin. His expression was cautious but controlled.
After all, the purpose of their gathering was for business discussions. Allowing temporary anger to spoil their opportunities would be unwise.
"Thank you, Elder Mason." Hank nodded appreciatively before casting a meaningful glance at Dustin.
He realized that staying composed during an assault from a grandmaster martial artist was quite impressive. So, he surmised that Dustin was no ordinary guy.
"Mr. Styles, now that everyone is here, can we get down to business?" Garrett got straight to the point without much preamble.
"Elder Mason, one more guest hasn't shown up yet. Please bear with us for a moment." Then, Hank clapped his hands.
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Soon, a group of maids swiftly entered with trays of assorted fruits and snacks. Even the damaged furniture was also replaced.
"Okay, we'll wait." Garrett didn't say much and took his seat.
The rest followed suit, and they ate the snacks and fruits. Despite the outward calm, occasional glances toward Dustin were filled with hatred.
On the contrary, Dustin calmly sipped his tea. He was unperturbed by the occasional hostile glances thrown his way.
As tpassed, anticipation turned into impatience. What was expected to be a short wait had stretched into midday.
Whispers of discontent circulated throughout the room. Even Garrett, known for his composure, couldn't hide his irritation.
As Garrett finished yet another pot of tea, his frustration boiled over. "Mr.
ΠΙ Styles, your guest's Xardiness is beyond rude. It's already midday, and he's still nowhere to be seen. It's obvious he thinks little of us."
Hank looked embarrassed and forced a smile. "Please, let's stay calm. The guest may havec om encountered delays. We'll wait a bit longer. In the meantime, help yourselves with another round of tea."
"Another round of tea? I've already downed three pots! Any more, and I'll f frustration be fit to burst!" Garretore, and I'll boiled over as he slammed his hand onto the table. He couldn't believe the nerve of their tardy guest. The sheer audacity was more than enough to fuel his temper.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2216
When Garrett slammed his hand on the table, the other martial artists stood up and expressed frustration.
"Mr. Styles, you know there's a code in the martial world. We can tolerate waiting, but leaving Elder Mason waiting like this? That's downright disrespectful." "You're right! It doesn't matter who they are since nobody should keep us waiting like this!" "Mr. Styles, this guest's behavior is completely unacceptable. We should just show him the door!" The room was filled with frustration and anger.
Garrett's remarks ignited a spark while they had shown patience out of deference to the Hall of Gods. The other martial artists wasted no tin releasing their bottled-up frustration.
"It's not about disrespecting you, but it's evident that this guest lacks respect for the Hall of Gods," Garret said.
He emphasized, "He has kept us waiting well beyond the agreed-upon time. Such arrogance shouldn't be tolerated." "Elder Mason and esteemed guests, I apologize for mishandling this matter. As a token of apology, I've prepared a gift for everyone." Hank knew explanations were futile, so he ordered his subordinates to present the prepared gifts.
A stunning array of treasures and rare artifacts were unveiled before the eager crowd.
Their eyes lit up with excitement as they gazed upon the dazzling display. Surprisingly, their earlier frustration seemed to vanish in an instant.
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Driven by the desire for wealth, the prospect of acquiring a valuable treasure after just a brief wait was incredibly enticing.
"Looks like the Hall of Gods knows how to impress. I could live off this treasure alone for years!" "And check out this crimson opal bracelet—it's one-of-a-kind! You won't find anything like it anywhere else," another added with awe.
"No doubt about it. Today's trip was totally worth it, even with the wait." They whispered excitedly among themselves.
Rumor had it that the Hall of Gods was a place of immense wealth, akin to a kingdom in its luxury. After experiencing it firsthand, it was evident that the tales weren't mere exaggerations.
Contemplating the prospect of working for such an institution in the future, one couldn't help but imagine the abundance of wealth that could await.
Garrett couldn't help but clear his throat when he sensed soverexcitement among the group. It was important to remind them that while the treasure mattered, maintaining their dignity was crucial.
After all, swinging from righteous indignation to cheerful smiles in the blink of an eye would be quite the spectacle if word got out.
Garrett's cough sobered the group, and their expressions turned serious again. However, the greed in their eyes as they eyed the treasure betrayed their intentions.
"Mr. Styles, we're grateful for your offer, but I must emphasize the importance of maintaining boundaries. Welcoming someone who lacks a sense of punctuality into our group purely for short-term gains would only invite chaos." Garrett maintained his serious tone despite his softened demeanor.
"Your advice is duly noted. Allow us another half an hour. If our tardy guest fails to appear by then, we'll proceed with our plans as intended. Is that acceptable?" Hank smiled politely.
"Okay. We'll wait another half hour out of respect for you," Garrett asserted firmly. Considering Hank's generosity with the treasure, he felt it was only fair to extend courtesy.
A lazy voice drifted in from outside as the room fell into a tense silence.
"Here's to life's fleeting moments amidst yesterday's abundant troubles. How to find peace? With nothing but the comforting touch of classic wine." Accompanying the voice was a disheveled figure. He reeked of alcohol as he stumbled into the room with a bottle of wine.
"Who let this drunkard in? Kick him out!" The foul odor from the drunkard wrinkled noses across the room. It prompted Lucian to voice his disdain with a sharp command.
The drunkard hesitated briefly upon hearing that. Then, he staggered toward Lucian and took a swig from his bottle.
With a mouthful of yellowed teeth, he let out a thunderous belch. He sprayed a toxic mixture of alcohol and saliva directly at Lucian.
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In an instant, the overwhelming stench filled the room.
Lucian inadvertently took a breath just as the foul odor engulfed him His face turned an unsettling shade of green, and he nearly keeled over from the sheer revulsion. His revulsion overwhelmed him as he gagged uncontrollably and doubled over in disgust.
With a boisterous laugh, the drunkard found the situation highly amusing.
"Fuck you! Go to hell!" Unable to contain his rage, Lucian unleashed a furious punch straight at the drunkard's face.
He threw his punch with unbridled force, and its intensity wasunmatched. The sheer power behind his fist created a thunderous roar as it tore through the air, infused with Divine Aura. "Wait!" Hank tried to step in, but it was too late.
Lucian's blow landed squarely on the drunkard's face with a resounding thud.
The room exploded into pandemonium as the drunkard, seemingly unaffected, stood his ground.
Lucian was sent flying several yards backward, propelled by an unseen force before crashing heavily into the wall! Blood poured from his mouth as he writhed in agony. Everyone watched in shocked silence as the events unfolded.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2217
The room fell into a sudden hush like thad frozen. Everyone's eyes widened in disbelief at the sight before them.
First, they glanced at Lucian, who was seriously injured and spewing blood. Then, their attention shifted to the drunken man swaying unsteadily.
Confusion clouded their minds. They had witnessed Lucian delivering a decisive blow directly to the drunkard's face.
Yet, why was the drunkard unharmed while Lucian suffered serious injuries? "What the heck just happened? How did Lucian get tossed like that?" "It... it must be the drunkard's protective armor energy! Thunderbolt Fist's punch went smack into that armor!" "Protection armor energy? Wait, could this beggar be a grandmaster martial artist?" After a brief moment of silence, the room exploded into chaos.
No one could have predicted that this disheveled, stinking drunkard would be a formidable adversary.
Lucian, alias Thunderbolt Fist, was a legend in the martial world. He was renowned for his bonecrushing blows, which could exert tens of thousands of pounds of force.
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To endure one of his strikes without a scratch or counter with such ferocity attack required the skill of a grandmaster martial artist or higher.
"Who do you think you are? How dare you cause such mayhem here!" Garrett's expression darkened as he beheld Lucian's grievous injuries.
"Haha... Excellent wine!" The drunkard chuckled. He was oblivious to Garrett's presence and continued to sip his drink as if nothing had occurred.
"Hey, I'm talking to you! Are you listening?" Garrett channeled his grandmaster-level internal energy to amplify his voice.
In a flash, the entire room resounded with a thunderous boom. Ears rang, heads spun, and the less experienced martial artists hurried to cover their ears from the piercing noise.
The drunkard burped. He stirred slightly at Garrett's outburst. His tired eyes reluctantly opened as he pointed to himself. "Are you talking to me?" "Of course! Who else would I be talking to?" Garrett nearly lost his composure and raised his voice again.
He noticed that the filthy beggar, with his tattered appearance and revolting stench, had completely ignored him.
"Why are you shouting like that? I'm not deaf." The drunkard scratched his ear lazily. "Oh, what were you saying just now?" Garrett began, but the drunkard waved him off. "Forget it. Don't botherwhile I enjoy my drink." With that dismissal, the drunkard settled into the seat. He nonchalantly resumed his drinking and was seemingly unfazed by Garrett's presence.
Garrett's eyes narrowed in anger, and his fists clenched tightly in fury. No one had dared to treat him disdainfully since he gained fame.
Even the highest ranks at the Hall of Gods showed him deference when they encountered him.
Yet, the ragged beggar blatantly disrespected him, treating him as if he was invisible. It infuriated him.
"Filthy beggar! You're going to regret crossing me!" Garrett exploded as his patience wore thin.
In one swift motion, he thrust his hand toward the drunkard's head and unleashed his internal energy.
A loud boom echoed through the air. Then, a colossal white shadow palm descended upon the drunkard like a mountain.
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Instantly, the air warped, and the ground quaked. Before the shadow palm even landed, everyone felt their breath catch, as if there was a boulder sitting on their chests.
"Oh my god! What intense pressure! Elder Mason must be seriously ticked off!" "Why did this beggar mess with Elder Mason? He's toast now!" "Hmph! This arrogant fool deserves whatever's coming to him!" As Garrett unleashed his fury, the others were stunned yet secretly pleased.
After all, the unknown drunkard, with his audacity and impressive strength, had utterly disregarded them.
Wouldn't it set a dangerous precedent if his behavior went unchecked?
While Garrett launched his attack, the drunkard remained unperturbed. He calmly sipped/his wine as though he were indifferent to the situation. It wasn't until Garrett's strike was inches from his head that the drunkard finally reacted. He retaliated with a powerful blow.
A thunderous boom echoed through the room as Garrett's attack was met with unexpected resistance. His palm shadow shattered instantly, sending shockwaves rippling through the air. Nearby martial artists were sent flying like leaves in the wind. They crashed to the ground with cries of pain. Even Garrett, a grandmaster martial artist, was knocked back several steps. His expression was a mixture of surprise and frustration.
Meanwhile, the drunkard who had been attacked remained unperturbed and continued with Xis drink. He was unfazed and sat there as though he were an outsider observing the chaos around him. "He's unscathed? How is that even possible?" "To withstand a blow from a grandmaster and walk away unscathed... Just who is this beggar?" "Looks can be deceiving. I never would've guessed a beggar could pack such a punch." Everyone observed in disbelief and astonishment as the extraordinary scene unfolded before them.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2218
"Who the hell are you? Tell us your name!" Garrett's face tensed as he frowned.
Despite his attack, the beggar remained unruffled and composed. Not only did the beggar's counterattack neutralize Garrett's strike, but it also sent him stumbling back.
Garrett realized the beggar's skill surpassed his. It was hard for him to fathom how someone so unassuming could wield such power.
"Ah... excellent wine!" The drunkard remained indifferent to Garrett's question and fully engrossed in his drink. Sensing Garrett's mounting frustration, Hank stepped in. "Let's not get worked up, gentlemen." He stood between the two parties with a smile. "You know what they say about a friendly spar can break the ice. After our little tussle earlier, I bet we all better understand each other now. Allowto make the introductions." With a gesture toward the drunkard, he said, "This gentleman here is the esteemed Mr. Willard Lent. He is also known as the Wein Sage. I'm sure many of you are familiar with his reputation." "Wait! He is Willard Lent, the Wein Sage?" The others couldn't hide their surprise.
Willard was a well-known figure in the martial world. Rumors abound of his insatiable love for wine and his indifference to fame, fortune, and power. Yet, his martial prowess was unrivaled.
He was ranked at the forefront among grandmaster martial artists.
Willard was infamous for his elusive behavior. It was characterized by movements akin to a phantom marked by unmatched stealth and agility.
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Numerous attempts to locate him had proven futile. Hence, stumbling upon him at today's gathering was quite unexpected.
The individual before them bore little resemblance to the esteemed figure they had envisioned. After all, he looked like a beggar.
If not for his display of formidable power against Garrett earlier, they might not have believed that this ragged beggar was indeed the famed Wein Sage.
"Mr. Styles, are you sure he's the Wein Sage?" Garrett's frown deepened as he eyed Willard with suspicion. Garrett was familiar with the reputation of the Wein Sage. He knew that on the grandmaster rankings, the Wein Sage's position surpassed even that of the Cosmos Demon.
He couldn't comprehend why someone of such high stature appeared as destitute as a beggar.
"Elder Mason, you've just sparred with Mr. Lent. What do you think?" With a smile, Hank added, "You can try to assa role, but genuine strength always reveals itself. If it weren't Mr. Lent, with his legendary reputation as the Wein Sage, who else could stand on par with you?" His words were tactful. He subtly boosted Garrett's ego and diffused any tension between them.
As Hank's praise lifted Garrett's spirits, he asked, "So, is Willard the one we've been expecting?" "Yes," Hank confirmed with a nod. "Wein Sage enjoys his drink. He likely got sidetracked on his way here. Elder Mason, I'm sorry for his tardiness." "Don't worry about it," Garrett replied casually. "Mr. Lent is a big shot. A little tardiness won't ruffle any feathers." Despite feeling annoyed by Willard's behavior, Garrett refrained from confronting him due to the man's strength. After their recent bout, Garrett clearly understood Willard's capabilities. He knew he wouldn't stand a chance against Willard in a one-on-one fight.
It would require both Cosmos Demons to join forces to suppress him effectively.
However, Monde Liam, Garrett's wife, was still on her way and couldn't join them immediately. Therefore, he had to be patient for the tbeing.
"Mr. Styles, now that everyone is here, how about we get down to business?" Dustin, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up.
He wasn't particularly interested in the martial world's conflicts among these individuals. But his primary concern was uncovering any schemes from the Hall of Gods.
"Sure." Hank smiled and adjusted his glasses. "Each of you is a top-tier martial artist, respected and valued by the Hall of Gods. Your skills are impressive, and that's exactly why we've approached you.
"Our goal is collaboration, and if you lend your aid to the Hall of Gods, we'll make sure you're well- rewarded." "Oh? And what kind of collaboration are you referring to, Mr. Styles?" Garrett raised an eyebrow.
"We've heard rumors of valuable treasures emerging in the forbidden ground of Wxy Summit. We WxymSummit.
ve are intrigued seek the help of skilled individuals like yourselves to explore and uncover these treasures," Hank explained plainly. Upon hearing this, the martial artists frowned and looked uneasy. They were hesitant to speak.
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They knew that venturing into the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit was like walking into a lion's den. One wrong move, and they might not make it out alive.
"Mr. Styles, you must understand the immense danger of Sacred Wrym Summit. It's not something we can take lightly. This business proposition might be too risky for us," Garrett said seriously. "Exactly, Mr. Styles. Sacred Wrym Summit is too powerful for us to meddle with. We may have to pass on this opportunity," another agreed.
"Yes, Mr. Styles. We're willing to help with information gathering, but venturing into the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit is too much of a gamble," added a third.
Upon hearing that, the martial artists collectively shook their heads. While they were no strangers to danger, it didn't mean they were eager to court it.
They might tolerate risks for the right price in ordinary circumstances. But the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit was a whole different story.
It was shrouded in mystery and peril, where even the most skilled martial artists hesitated to venture.
Whether divine masters or grandmaster master artists, they knew better than to than to provoke them Ancient Sage of Sacred Wrym Summit, who commanded unparalleled respect in the martial world. Getting involved in any dubious dealings under the watchful eye of such a formidable presence would be nothing short of inviting disaster.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2219
Chapter 2219 Hank remained unperturbed when confronted with everyone's apprehension. It was as if he had foreseen their anxieties.
Despite his affiliation with the Hall of Gods, his upbringing in Dragonmarsh had endowed him with a profound understanding of the strength of Sacred Wrym Summit.
Even the most renowned elites wouldn't dare to challenge the Sacred Wrym Summit.
Hank reassured, "Fear not, everyone." Then, he gestured for silence and waited until the room fell quiet before continuing, "I understand your worries. But rest assured, we won't send you into danger unprepared.
"Even if we venture into the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit, we'll take all necessary precautions to minimize risks." "Mr. Styles, what's the Hall of Gods' plan? It's better to be straight with US so we know where we stand," Garrett asked.
"Yeah, let's have stransparency here. We need to know what we're getting into," the others chimed in.
They weren't eager to be sacrificial lambs and charged mindlessly into the danger of Sacred Wrym Summit's forbidden ground. Hence, they needed assurance of a solid plan for their safety before committing to anything.
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Hank said, "Alright, I'll explain it to you." He paused briefly before saying," You all know the Combat Tournament at the Sacred Wrym Summit, right? "They had all hands on deck for security, which left many spots wide open. They're practically deserted at the back mountain. So, sneaking in at night should be doable without raising any alarms." "Is that your plan? Sounds a bit risky, doesn't it?" Garrett raised an eyebrow, looking skeptical.
Even with the distraction of the Combat Tournament, he knew there were probably many elites patrolling Sacred Wrym Summit's back mountains. Sneaking in carelessly risked tipping them off, and if they got caught, it would be the end forthem.
Hank replied, "Elder Mason, there's no need to rush. What I've outlined is just the first step." He smiled and continued, "Once we approach the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit, we'll have additional teams to create diversions.
"When the tis right, these teams will set fires across the mountain.
This will draw their elites' attention away.
"That's when we seize the moment to infiltrate the forbidden ground and uncover the rare treasures. In simpler terms, it's a strategy known as' smoke and mirrors." "Smoke and mirrors?" The martial artists pondered and were intrigued by the plan's ingenuity. It sounded promising to them.
By employing multiple teams to set fires and diverting the Sacred Wrym Summit's elite, they could minimize the risks associated with their mission.
Garrett asked again, "Mr. Styles, the plan sounds promising. However, troubling rumors about the dangers within Sacred Wrym Summit's forbidden ground are circulating.
"Word has it there's a mysterious, enigmatic fighter who calls it hyear-round. Facing this individual alone would be no small feat.
"And then there's the matter of hunting down rare treasures. We might be biting off more than we can chew." Hank's strategy could draw the focus away from most elites at the Sacred Wrym Summit. But confronting the enigmatic fighter within the forbidden ground posed a significant challenge.
Plus, with the mission of uncovering rare treasures, the task grew even more daunting.
"Elder Mason, you can count on the Hall of Gods to have your back," Hank reassured.
He added, "We've gathered a team of heroes beyond those here today. Unfortunately, we can't disclose their identities for security reasons. But trust me, they'll be there to lend a hand if you run into trouble!" The tension in the crowd eased upon hearing that.
The Hall of Gods seemed well-prepared and hadn't placed all their hopes solely on them. Instead, they had organized several treasure-hunting teams.
It lessened the pressure on them significantly.
With the Hall of Gods taking care of arrangements, joining one of the treasure-hunting teams sounded sensible. The only concern now was what the Hall of Gods offered in return.
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After all, trespassing into the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit posed a constant risk to their lives. They would need to reconsider if the rewards didn't outweigh the risks. "Mr. Styles, it's not that I'm unwilling to help, but..." Garrett hesitated. His hand absentmindedly stroked his beard with a troubled expression.
Seeing his hesitation, Hank quickly clapped his hands.
Soon, a group of maids entered carrying chests of various sizes. With a nod from him, the maids began unveiling the treasures in each chest.
Suddenly, the room beca dazzling spectacle of riches that captivated everyone.
The martial artists were awestruck as they beheld the treasures before them. Their eyes sparkled with excitement, and their breath quickened with anticipation. Each rare and valuable item elicited a flicker of greed across their faces. It was unlike anything they had seen, leaving them utterly mesmerized.
"We won't let your efforts go unrewarded," Hank said with a smile. "If you agree to help, all these treasures will be yours." Indeed, few could resist the allure of such wealth, and it seemed that everyone had their price.
"The Hall of Gods certainly doesn't hold back regarding rewards!" "This is beyond incredible!" "We're honored to serve the Hall of Gods. Count US in!"
After a moment of awe, the martial any artists eagerly accepted. With riches Q. like these on offer, they were willing to face any danger, even the forbidden ground of Sacred Wrym Summit.
AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (Dustin Rhys)
Chapter 2220
"Elder Mason, what do you think?" Hank turned to Garrett as the tension eased.
"If the Hall of Gods is extending such sincerity, it would be impolite of US to refuse," Garrett replied with a smile.
With all these rare treasures being presented, they couldn't possibly refuse such an offer. They knew completing
the mission would set them up for a comfortable retirement.
Though risky, the potential rewards made it a gamble worth taking.
Besides, they would be an unstoppable force with the Cosmos Demons on their side.
After all, they never backed down from danger, even when faced with the toughest challenges.
"Elder Mason, your decisiveness is admirable." Hank smiled and turned to Willard. "Mr. Lent, what about you?"
"As long as there's good booze, then we've got a deal," Willard slurred with drunken cheer.
"Perfect! Then, it's settled." Hank perked up with a bright smile.
"Wait! I've got a question." Dustin, who had been observing quietly, spoke up.
"Oh? What's on your mind?" Hank raised a curious eyebrow.
He brought Dustin on board due to his clean record and remarkable skills.
After seeing Dustin defeat Marco previously, Hank suspected him to be a grandmaster martial artist. Someone so
young and skilled was definitely worth recruiting.
"Mr. Styles, you've tasked US with finding treasure. But we're in the dark about what exactly we're after. Can you
give US sinsight? It would ease our minds," Dustin said calmly.
The others nodded in agreement. Their initial excitement had blinded them to this crucial detail.
The meticulous planning of the Hall of Gods raised questions about the purpose behind venturing into the
forbidden grounds of the Sacred Wrym Summit.
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"I must admit that even I'm unsure of what treasure we're seeking," Hank confessed and shook his head.
"What? You're clueless, too?" Garrett was shocked by the revelation.
Tasking them to search for treasure without knowing what they were looking for seemed like a fool's errand.
"I must confess that the God King organized this treasure hunt. I'm simply following orders, and the details are
unclear to me." Hank shrugged helplessly.
"What? The God King is involved?"
"Goodness! Do we really need all this grandeur?"
"It seems the Hall of Gods is dead set on this mission!"
The martial artists exchanged murmurs and were astonished by the revelation.
Four God Kings governed the Hall of Gods. Each of them commanded immense power, much like the Celestial
Alliance's guildmaster.
Their direct involvement in the quest for the treasure hinted at its profound significance.
"Mr. Styles, this mission won't be a walk in the park." Garrett frowned and hesitated again.
The God King's involvement underscored the seriousness of the situation. In the presence of a figure of such
stature, they were merely insignificant.
Garrett doubted if they were being treated merely as expendable bait.
"Elder Mason, don't worry," Hank assured him upon sensing his concern.
He smiled and added, "While the God King has devised the plan, he won't be directly involved. He's just keeping
an eye on things from the sidelines.
"With him watching over everything, I'm sure the plan will work out fine. As for why he hasn't disclosed
everything, it's likely to maintain secrecy and prevent leaks.
"So, no need to worry too much. I'll be right there with you on the mission. If anything goes south, I'll step in and
make sure you're all safe.”
Garrett and the others breathed a collective sigh of relief at Hank's reassurance. It seemed their concerns had
been unnecessary, given Hank's sincerity.
"With your reassurance, we're all in. Just give US the word when you need our help later." Garrett patted his
chest.
"Exactly! We've accepted the Hall of Gods' payment, so we'll do our best to fulfill our end of the deal!"
"Even if it means going all out, we're committed to uncovering that treasure for the Hall of Gods!"
The martial artists voiced their agreement. They were prepared to confront whatever challenges awaited them.
"You're all honorable heroes, and |
have full faith in each phyag. thank
“fl befor to Dustin. "Any
lingering doubts or questions? Feel
free to speak up."
Dustin seized the opportunity and said, "Now that you mention it, | do have a question."
"Huh?" Hank's expression tensed. His words had been mere pleasantries, but he was caught off guard when
Dustin took them to heart.
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"Hey, kid! What's with all this nonsense?" Garrett slammed his hand on the table and was visibly annoyed.
"Hmph! We haven't even started yet, and you're already causing a fuss. You really don't know when to quit, do
you?"
The other martial artists sneered, and their faces twisted with disdain.
"Don't worry. If you have any
questions, don't hesitate to agyhfl try
my best 93 Rewer A (our doubts,"
Hank said with a faint smile. He tried
to maintain a polite demeanor. The
content is on novelenglish.net! Read
the latest chapter there!
"You mentioned earlier that the God
King of the Hall of Ronee arrived.
® curisghich od King is it this
tire?" Dustin asked. The content is
on novelenglish.net! Read the latest B
chapter there!
The Hall of Gods had already lost one God King. So, who would dare to cto Sacred Wrym Summit now?
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