AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) Chapter 2461 To 2470

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2461

Jeremiah exuded a whole new intensity after transforming into a demon. Blood energy coiled around him, and his face twisted into a menacing snarl. Yet, his eyes remained as cold as ice and devoid of emotion.

He loomed above the masses like a god looking down upon mortals; his presence was indescribable.

Even from a distance, the spectators felt the crushing pressure deep within their souls. The sensation was so overwhelming that many couldn't suppress the urge to worship him.

"You've managed to force into my third form... that's quite an achievement." As Jeremiah transformed into his demon form, his voice grew hoarse and deep.

He slowly raised a finger and pointed at Dustin. What had once been a blade transformed into a withered, sharp claw. His crimson eyes locked onto Dustin and sized him up as if he were nothing more than an ant.

"You look intimidating, but I'm curious about how you fight." Dustin scrutinized him impassively. He had faced many fears opponents and would fight without hesitation, whether it was a fake demon or a real one.

"You will soon understand the consequences of angering me." Jeremiah smiled menacingly. "Really? Then, stop the chatter and cat me." Dustin beckoned him forward with a finger.

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"This time, I'll send you straight to hell. "Jeremiah's eyes flared with malice. With a blur, he disappeared from sight.

When he reappeared, he was right in front of Dustin. His claws slashed forward with blinding speed, which left a chilling shimmer in their wake.

“He's fast!” the spectators gasped in shock.

In his demon form, Jeremiah moved with a speed that seemed like teleportation. The spectators could barely keep up as their eyes struggled to follow the flurry of strikes and counters.

As Jeremiah's claw c down, Dustin reacted just as quickly. With a simple punch, he met the strike head-on.

A thunderous blast echoed through the venue. Energy rippled outward and was accompanied by the roar of a fierce wind.

Dustin and Jeremiah staggered back from the impact, and each step left deep imprints in the ground beneath their feet.

"Hmm?" The two raised their heads simultaneously and stared at each other in surprise.

Dustin hadn't anticipated Jeremiah to be this powerful after his transformation. He felt that Jeremiah was even stronger than sultimate grandmasters.

Similarly, Jeremiah reevaluated Dustin's strength.

Dustin's ability to endure the raw power of his third form while maintaining his ground demonstrated his exceptional resilience. It was clear that his abilities far exceeded those of any ordinary person.

After a moment of silence, they lunged at each other again and locked in a fierce exchange of blows.

With their strengths evenly matched, the match's outchinged on speed, defense, reflexes, recovery, and skill. Many factors would decide the victor, and strength was only one aspect. When their power was nearly equal, every other element beccrucial.

They moved in a blur as their bodies intersected and collided without stopping. Each punch and kick carried terrifying strength that left deep craters and jagged cracks in the battle ring.

Even the aftershocks of their combat radiated outward with immense force. As they spread, it felt like an avalanche or a tidal wave. The sheer power overwhelmed everything in its path.

At that moment, Oron activated the protective shield to surround the battle ring to prevent spectators from harm.

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Ordinary people might not notice, but his keen eye could discern that Dustin and Jeremiah had reached the level of ultimate grandmaster.

The clash between ultimate grandmasters was far more ferocious than typical grandmaster bouts. A single misstep could result in significant casualties, so even Oron had to proceed cautiously.

"I didn't expect Dustin to stand toe-to-toe with that beast. That's impressive!" "With his strength, he should make it onto the Legendary List, right?" "If he wins this match, he'll definitely earn a spot on that list. But if he loses, he might not survive." As Dustin and Jeremiah engaged in the ring, the spectators couldn't help but whisper and speculate.

Their speed was so fast that the audience could hardly distinguish one contestant from the other. They only saw blurred figures and heard their clashes' thunderous sounds.

After watching countless matches, the intensity and destructive power of the fight between Dustin and he between m Jeremiah stood out as unmatched.

Even Oron had activated the protective shield early, which was unprecedented in this setting. Yet, the spectators were still unsure who was stronger or who would ultimately win. Still, they hoped for Dustin's victory, but a sense of foreboding settled over them.

Since transforming into a beast, Jeremiah possessed immense strength and lightning-fast speed. He also had physical abilities that far exceeded those of an ordinary human.

His defense, endurance, and recovery were all superior. He could afford to exhaust himself since his stamina was boundless. This allowed him to fight longer and grow stronger with each exchange. In contrast, Dustin was just a human and only had impressive cultivation. But if the fight dragged on, he would eventually face exhaustion.

When one fighter grew weaker while the other grew stronger, the odds of victory becapparent to many. The truth was unmistakable, even if the spectators were reluctant to acknowledge it. They clung to a sliver of hope that Dustin had hidden cards or strategies to turn the tide. Otherwise, the consequences could be dire.

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2462

Dustin expertly countered every strike from Jeremiah while launching his attacks in the battle ring. However, despite landing punches and kicks, his efforts only inflicted minor injuries on Jeremiah.

The red scales covering Jeremiah were several times tougher than the previous black ones. Combined with his monstrous physique, he almost seemed to embody an Adamantine body.

When Dustin's fists and feet struck the scales, the loud thuds echoed. Aside from the noise, it was nearly impossible to inflict any damage.

Even when Dustin targeted Jeremiah's weak spots and managed to shatter a few scales, he still couldn't gain the upper hand.

Jeremiah's regenerative abilities were astonishing. Even with a hole pierced through his chest, he could fully heal in just a few breaths. To him, minor wounds were hardly a concern. He was indeed an indestructible beast with such formidable defense and incredible recovery.

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Dustin realized that continuing down this path would spell his downfall. If he drained too much energy, he risked giving Jeremiah the chance to counterattack.

It becclear that relying solely on his fists and feet wouldn't suffice. He needed to draw his sword to turn the tide of the battle.

"This guy is tough," Jeremiah thought. "He's actually holding his own against my third form. I'll have to evolve into my ultimate form to defeat him." He was surprised. Usually, when he transformed into his third form in the past, he could easily overwhelm his opponents. But today, Dustin's strength was giving him a headache.

Every tJeremiah tried to land a blow, Dustin dodged or blocked. And he often found himself taking punches in return. While the impacts didn't cause serious injuries, they were still painful.

The relentless assault was frustrating, and this prompted him to resolve to transform into his ultimate form and end the match quickly. He was ready to reveal all his abilities to secure victory.

With a fierce clash of punches and kicks, the two-lost in their thoughts- instinctively stepped back to create sdistance between them.

Jeremiah quickly unlocked his genes, and a surge of bloodline power coursed through him.

Suddenly, two bulging masses formed on his back. It rapidly expanded until it broke through the skin and spread outward. Instantly, they unfurled into massive bat-like wings, each nearly 30 feet wide. The wings blotted out the light and radiated an overwhelming presence.

If Jeremiah had previously resembled a typical demon, he now embodied the legendary Demon Master, who stood tall with an intimidating presence that exuded fear.

"Damn it! He transformed again? Does he ever stop?" Jeremiah's sudden change caused an uproar among the spectators and prompted many to curse.

The thought of one person transforming once or twice was already intimidating. But now, with a third and fourth transformation-and wings to boot-it was outrageous.

"The priest's momentum has surged to another level. This makes him even more terrifying. Dr. Rhys is in serious trouble now." In the stands, Alicia watched the unfolding scene with a grave expression. She desperately wanted Dustin to win. But with each transformation, Jeremiah's strength seemed to multiply. At that instant, his power had grown to an unimaginable level.

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Dustin winning felt like an unrealistic expectation. Simply surviving this encounter would've been a blessing.

"I must admit that the elites from Streuqua, paired with genetic enhancements, can truly push beyond human limits. In this situation, I can't say I have any confidence in winning." Fenley shook his head.

He had once believed he could defeat Jeremiah after witnessing his third form, but now, doubt clouded his thoughts. Unless there was a breakthrough, he saw no hope of victory.

Suddenly, Jeremiah, in his demonized form, flapped his wings. He soared into the air and looked down at Dustin. He roared, "Despicable human! You've pushedtoo far. Now, I will tear you apart." Jeremiah had been forced to use all his trump cards. His rage wouldn't be quelled if he didn't kill Dustin.

"Really? We'll see if you have what it takes," Dustin replied coolly. He extended one hand and grasped the air.

"Celestial!" As his voice echoed, a flash of dark light streaked across the sky. Then, a black longsword ve descended from above and landed perfectly in Dustin's grasp. The sword gleamed ominously as it radiated a chilling brilliance. "Celestial Blade? Could it be... him?"

Several spectators gasped in recognition as they saw the weapon as if they had guessed something. While a person's appearance could be altered, a weapon remained unchanged. Although the Celestial Blade rarely made an appearance, and only a few had seen it, its listing on the Divine Weapon List naturally drew attention.

"Hmph! Do you think you can stopwith just a sword?" Jeremiah snarled. "I will show you the meaning of fear!"

With a fierce roar, he flapped his wings and dove straight down from ed was the sky. His speed was blinding, and the fordelofhis descent felt cataclysmic as he hurtled toward Dustin like a meteor crashing to Earth.

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2463

As Jeremiah dove downward, Dustin smoothly assumed a sword-holding stance. Instantly, he swung the weapon with blinding speed.

A black sword aura shot forth as it sliced through the air with the power to tear the very sky apart. It carried an overwhelming momentum that crashed toward Jeremiah.

"What?" Jeremiah's expression changed as an instinctual sense of danger sent shivers down his spine.

The sword appeared ordinary, but with his heightened perception, he sensed the destructive energy contained within. He understood that if this attack struck his vital point, it would likely be fatal.

Jeremiah quickly abandoned his offense and flapped his wings to dodge in midair. His reflexes were quick, but the black sword aura was even faster.

Just as he sidestepped, the sword aura passed through him. Blood sprayed out and painted half the sky crimson. "Ah!" Jeremiah let out a horrified scream.

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The sword aura had torn half of his shoulder, along with his arm and wing, and blood poured down like rain. He stumbled and spun helplessly several times before crashing onto the battle ring. In one devastating strike, he had lost half his body.

"How... How can you be this strong?" Jeremiah quickly scrambled to his feet. His face was a mask of terror, and he completely ignored his wounds.

He realized that Dustin, now wielding a sword, was an entirely different opponent. Dustin's kicks and punches had been impressive without the weapon, yet he could only chip away his scales.

But now, with the sword in hand, Dustin had transformed into a grim reaper. He could take half his life with a mere flick of his wrist.

What terrified Jeremiah most was how the sword aura suppressed his healing abilities. His wounds couldn't heal as quickly as they once had.

"You've forcedto draw my sword. I'll admit, you're impressive, but this is where it ends." Dustin raised his Celestial Blade again.

"Wait! I surrender..." Jeremiah's panic surged as he prepared to surrender, but the second black sword aura was already whistling toward him. As it approached, silence fell with the weight of impending destruction.

"Ah!" Jeremiah screamed in despair.

The black sword aura pierced through him in the blink of an eye. His body stiffened for a moment before exploding into a shower of blood and flesh that filled the entire battle ring.

For a moment, the venue fell silent.

The spectators stared in ief, and their expressions frozen in shock. No one had expected Dustin to be able to unleash such ferocity after drawing the sword. He shattered their wildest expectations.

Once Jeremiah grew a pair of wings, he gained a significant boost in strength and the ability to fly. His agility and offensive capabilities had multiplied, which made him a formidable opponent. They assumed Dustin wouldn't stand a chance.

Unexpectedly, Dustin survived, and he effortlessly defeated Jeremiah. With just two swift strikes, he turned the so-called "Demon Master" into a cloud of flesh and blood. The power he displayed was nothing short of astonishing.

"Oh my God! Did my eyes deceive me? That beast was taken down just like that?" "Terrifying! Absolutely terrifying! I've never seen such a domineering sword." "Two strikes to slay a demon? It's truly horrifying!" "I didn't notice it before, but I had no idea he was this powerful. From what I can tell, he's the biggest dark horse in this tournament." "Who... Who is he? Why have I never seen him before?" "If he doesn't have a spot on the Legendary List, I'll be the first to protest."

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After a brief silence, the spectators erupted into a frenzy. They looked at Dustin with excitement. Co astonishment, confusion, and admiration. Above all, everyone was proud of his victory for their nation. Regardless of his background, he was a Dragonmarsh citizen. He had boldly defeated a foreign challenger in the battle ring and brought honor to all Dragonmarsh martial artists.

"I declare, contestant number eight, Dustin Rhys, the winner!" Oron's voice boomed across the venue.

Despite his usual composure, he was shocked by what he had just witnessed. He realized that neither Jeremiah nor he could have endured those two strikes.

At such a young age, Dustin had displayed remarkable strength. It appeared that Dragonmarsh had produced yet another genius.

"Great! Dr. Rhys has won!" Alicia and Aurora cheered with enthusiasm.

Grace, sitting nearby, let out a sigh of relief. After seeing Jeremiah transformed.

Ish anxiety. Fortunately, it into a demon, her hea raced ended well, and Dustin won the match. "Could it be... him?" Fenley's gaze was locked on Dustin in the battle ring. He frowned in uncertainty.

The earlier two strikes had awakened a sense of familiarity and reminded Fenley of someone Xe had© om encountered a year ago in Oakvale. It was Logan Rhys, the top master on the Legendary List

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2464

"Interesting. It looks like this match won't be boring after all." From his seat at the Sword Union, Glenn narrowed his eyes. A rare spark of interest broke through his indifferent demeanor.

As a swordsman, he thrived on the challenge of facing strong opponents. The more formidable his rival, the more it ignited his excitement. Watching an elite swordsman in action only intensified his desire to fight.

Of course, ordinary fighters wouldn't capture his attention. But Dustin's earlier performance had drawn him in.

Those two quick, fierce strikes showcased a sharpness of sword aura that was truly impressive. Glenn realized that an elite like Dustin would be an excellent sharpening stone for his skills.

Glenn wasn't the only one who noticed. Dustin's impressive win over Jeremiah had left everyone in awe, and they began to see him as a dark horse in the tournament.

While most might not consider him a contender for the championship, they recognized he had the strength to break into the top three. His value skyrocketed as major guilds were willing to invest heavily in Dustin while extending lucrative offers to him.

After all, a talent like his could beca dominant force with just a little guidance and potentially lead their guild to greatness. However, attracting such talent was one thing; successfully nurturing it was another challenge entirely.

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The search for the top eight concluded with Dustin's victory in the eighth round. All three foreign challengers were eliminated, with none surviving.

This match was a true rollercoaster, as it was filled with breathtaking moments. Until the very last second, no one could predict the outcome, given the numerous twists and turns.

Whether it was Caleb defeating Kendricks, Dalen overcoming Jude, or Dustin clinching the final victory, all three emerged as dark horses. Initially overlooked, they ended up winning spectacularly.

Beyond these three dark horses, the other contestants also delivered commendable performances while showcasing their unique strengths.

Ultimately, the eight strongest contestants were determined after multiple elimination rounds. One of them would be crowned the champion the following day.

The merit of the Combat Tournament far surpassed that of the Legendary List. The list merely gauged a martial artist's strength based on various factors. It lacked the accuracy to serve as anything more than a reference.

In contrast, the battles in the ring provided an accurate measure of power. Strength and weakness, victory and defeat, becimmediately apparent as there was no room for deception.

In essence, the outcof the following day's match would determine who would claim the title of the strongest legend in the martial world.

The once-bustling Sacred Wrym Summit returned to a serene calm as night descended. The eight finalists either rested to regain their strength or plotted secretly and planned their strategies for the battles ahead.

Tomorrow's matches were critical, as this would draw the keen attention of all guilds. Securing a spot in the top three was the ultimate goal for every contestant.

This was a shot at fin the martial world, and the pressure weighed heavily on the forces behind these fighters.

Breaking into the top three would bring significant rewards from Sacred Wrym Summit, elevate their guild's standing, and attract elite talent.

This tournament was about more than personal glory, as it was a matter of survival for entire guilds. There was no room for complacency.

Guilds brought forth their most prized possessions and entrusted them to their disciples. They hoped for standout performances that could lead to victory and, ultimately, the championship.

In a secluded mountain manor about 20 miles from Sacred Wrym Summit, Bailey sat at the long dining table eating large chunks of meat and washed them down with gulps of ale. Grease dripped from his mouth and smeared his lips as he feasted.

The 16-foot table before him was piled high with every kind of meat imaginable. Dozens of dishes stretched across its surface, and no vegetable was in sight.

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"Mr. Bailey!" Hank, the god of the Hall of Gods, burst through the door with urgency written all over his face. "What's the matter?" Bailey didn't bother to look up as he devoured his meal while savoring every bite. "Mr. Bailey, Plan A has failed!" Hank said solemnly. "The three elites we sent to challenge the Dragonmarsh martial artists are all dead, and none survived." "Hmm?" Bailey paused and slowly lifted his head. "Are you sure they're all dead? Even Jeremiah Price?" "Yes." Hank nodded. "I brought back their remains. Do you want to see them? "Bring them in." Bailey's face darkened.

With his permission, Hank gestured, and several men entered while carrying three bodies draped in white cloth.

Bailey stepped forward, pulled back the cloth, and grimaced at the sight.

These weren't bodies but were just En mangled remains. Bill and Jeremiah had been reduced to grotesque piles. No sign of their human forms was left-only two heaps of shredded flesh.

Among the three, George's body was the least damaged. Even so, hism upper body was blown apart, and only his lower legs were intact. "How could this happen? What went wrong?" Bailey's anger boiled over.

He never imagined his meticulous search for these three elites would end tragically and brutally just before the finals. It was a humiliation he couldn't bear.

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2465

"According to the investigation, Dusk Titan was killed by the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order, while the Shadow Prince and The Dust of Angel were taken down by someone named Dustin Rhys." Hank didn't mince words as he detailed the entire incident.

Losing those three elite fighters was a serious blow to the Hall of Gods. They had planned a two-pronged attack.

To claim the championship title in the Combat Tournament and shatter the spirit of Dragonmarsh's martial artists while secretly raiding their treasures to block their fortunes.

But before they could even get started, Plan A was already a bust. They had lost their top elites and suffered a major hit to their reputation.

"I know about the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order, but where did this Dustin Rhys cfrom?" Bailey's expression darkened as he spoke.

He had researched Abigail, the second- ranked master on Dragonmarsh's Legendary List. It wasn't surprising that George had died in her hand.

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But Bailey had never heard of Dustin.

Jeremiah was a force to be reckoned with. He was comparable to the ultimate grandmaster when at full strength. Even Abigail might find him a challenge. What kind of upstart could take down two of their top elites? "Dustin's identity is a mystery. We don't have any leads on him yet." A chill crept down his spine as Hank spoke. It was as if a predator was watching him.

He quickly added, "However, I've had a brief encounter with Dustin. I suggest we try to recruit him." "Recruit him?" Bailey reined in his lethal intent and asked curiously, What's your plan?" "His ability to take down our two top elites proves his strength. If we offer him a substantial reward to join the Hall of Gods, it would be a win-win situation," Hank replied respectfully.

When confronting someone powerful, it was wiser to forge alliances than to create enemies. This was a common strategy for the Hall of Gods.

"If we can bring him into the Hall of Gods, that would be ideal. But do you believe you can pull it off?" Bailey asked thoughtfully.

"A few days ago, I had a chance to approach Dustin. Initially, I meant to use him as a pawn alongside the Dragonmarsh martial artists to draw the attention of Sacred Wrym Summit. But after witnessing his capabilities, I believe he's worth much more," Hank explained.

It suddenly struck him that the man who had just killed Jeremiah was the spawn he had sought to recruit days earlier.

"Can we trust him? We wouldn't want to let a wolf into the fold," Bailey narrowed his eyes.

With Dustin breaking into the top eight, he was bound to attract attention from various factions in Dragonmarsh. Bailey knew convincing him to betray his homeland wouldn't be easy. Even if Dustin agreed, trusting him could be a gamble.

"Mr. Bailey, don't worry. I'm sure I can recruit him. As for trust..." Hank's lips curled into a sly smile as he produced a small vial. “This is a poison I've carefully crafted. It specifically targets the Dragonmarsh elites. If someone takes it without my antidote, they'll face a gruesend within three days." "Now that's impressive!" Bailey's eyes sparkled with approval. "I didn't realize you had a plan ready, Mr. Styles. It seems I was worried for nothing. You take care of this and ensure it's executed flawlessly. Don't letdown. Using poison to control the martial artists of Dragonmarsh was a wise strategy. After all, who would risk their lives for a fight unless they were fearless? But how many would be willing to gamble their lives? "Yes. I'll handle it immediately." Hank nodded and turned to leave.

Dustin's strength had already proven more valuable than the three elites they'd lost. No matter the cost, Hank was determined to recruit him for the Hall of Gods.

The night was cold, and the wind was cutting like a blade. Just as Dustin finished his dinner and was about to head to his room to rest, a voice called out to him from the doorway.

"Hey, Dustin!" He turned to see Hank stepping forward with a friendly grin. " Remember me?" "Mr. Styles?" Dustin recognized him immediately.

"Can we talk?" Hank glanced around before lowering his voice.

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"Sure, cin." Dustin understood his intention. He opened the door and gestured for him to enter.

Hank smiled and stepped inside.

Dustin closed the door behind them and poured two cups of tea before sliding one across the table. "Mr. styles, I'm curious about your late- night visit. What brings you here?"

"First off, congratulations on making the top eight. You really caught everyone off guard. XHank suddenly changed the subject. But your actions today have thrown a wrench in our plans." "Oh? What do you mean?" Dustin feigned confusion.

"Honestly, the two foreign contestants you defeated today were affiliated with us," Hank said, his voice dropping to a whisper.

"What? Are you serious?" Dustin's eyes widened in surprise. "If I'd m known they were from the Hall of Gods, I wouldn't have gone so hard on them." He shook his head, sighing, and put on a look of remorse. The truth was undeniable.

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2466

"Dustin, I didn't realize you had such hidden talent. It's surprising that you could defeat our elites." Hank studied Dustin for a moment before breaking into a smile.

He continued, "But I can't blyou. The fault lies with Bill and Jeremiah for not being strong enough. As the saying goes, the victor takes all. It's only natural they met such an end due to their lack of skill. I'm not here tonight to point fingers or hold you accountable." "Well, that's reassuring.” Dustin breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. " Since you're not here to cause trouble, what's this visit about?" "Honestly, your performance has caught the attention of the God King. He wants to formally invite you to join the Hall of Gods and help us accomplish our grand vision." Hank smiled as he extended the invitation.

"Join the Hall of Gods?" Dustin was taken aback. He said hesitatingly, "Mr. Styles, that doesn't seem right. I'm just a nobody from the mountains. How could I possibly be worthy of joining the Hall of Gods?" "You're being too modest, Dustin," Hank said, sipping his tea. He smiled and continued, “A genius like you would be more than welcin the Hall of Gods. I can promise you that if you join us, you'll receive focused training and access to endless resources." The Hall of Gods had members from all over the globe. When it cto wealth and resources, they were unmatched, with a seemingly inexhaustible supply. So, Hank cto Dustin brimming with confidence.

"Mr. Styles, I appreciate the offer, but I'm used to my freedom. I don't like being tied down, so I think I'll have to pass." Dustin shook his head and declined.

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"Dustin, don't be so quick to turndown." Hank set his teacup down.

He said earnestly, "I can guarantee that if you join the Hall of Gods, I won't restrict your actions. You'll be free to do whatever you want without reporting to me. On top of that, I'll ensure you get the kind of authority and resources that cwith being an Oracle Defender." "Oracle Defender? How esteemed is that position?" Dustin asked curiously.

"It's a unique position," Hank explained. "In Dragonmarsh terms, it's like being an honored guild elder. Their authority is just a step below the God King. Within the Hall of Gods, they're held in high regard by everyone.” "That sounds pretty good." Dustin nodded and smiled. “So, you mean I don't have to do anything? Just by joining the Hall of Gods, I can gain access to all those treasures and resources?" "You could look at it that way, but..." Hank paused before continuing, "While being Oracle Defender gives you freedom and authority, there will be moments when you'll need to do something' for the Hall of Gods. Otherwise, it's hard to keep respect if you take without giving." The Hall of Gods wouldn't keep those who didn't contribute. They wanted benefits and expected everything to run smoothly. What kind of deal was that? “What's this 'something' you're talking about? You might as well just say it,” Dustin said impassively. He knew Hank was about to get to the point.

"You're probably aware that once this Combat Tournament is over, the Hall of Gods has an important operation lined up. For security reasons, we haven't yet finalized the target or timing of the mission," Hank said.

He continued, "I wasn't aware of your abilities before, so my arrangements weren't as thorough as they should have been. If possible, I'd like you to lead this operation.

"If you succeed, I won't just make you an Oracle Defender. I could even promote you to the rank of a god and put you on the slevel as me." "I didn't expect the Hall of Gods to take this operation so seriously. What exactly do you needto do?" Dustin asked tentatively.

"If you want to know the details of the operation, you'll need to take this first. "Hank took a vial from his pocket and placed it on the table.

"This is..." Dustin looked a bit confused.

"Poison," Hank answered bluntly.

Seeing Dustin's frown, he quickly added, "It's not that I don't trust you. But the Hall of Gods has its own rules. To prevent any secrets from leaking and jeopardizing the mission, everyone has to take the poison, myself included. No exceptions." "That ruthless?" Dustin frowned.

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"Yes, but don't worry. Once you complete the mission, the God King will give you the antidote," Hank reassured with a smile.

"And if I don't?" Dustin suddenly countered.

That question caused Hank to pause briefly, but quickly regained his composure. He smiled and said "Don't worry. The Hall of Gods has planned everything down to the smallest detail. If you follow the steps, there won't be a problem."

Dustin considered his options for a moment before shaking his head. "Mr. Styles, while the offer from the Hall of Gods is certainly tempting, my own safety matters more. I won't let fall my life be held in someone else's hands, so I'll have to decline your offer."

He wasn't afraid of the poison. In fact, this was his tactic to build trust with the Hall of Gods. After alam reasonable person would likely hesitate at such a proposition. It might raise suspicions if he showed too much eagerness to risk his life. As expected, Hank wasn't upset by Sebastian's response. Instead, he smiled even brighter. Hank would have questioned his intentions if Dustin had jumped at the offer. Now, he found himself trusting Dustin even more.

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2467

Dustin carefully examined the box and ensured there were no unusual markings before turning to Grace. He asked blankly, "Did you actually guess, or can you see what is inside?" "Of course, I guessed it. I don't have X-ray vision, so how could I see it?" She rolled her eyes.

"Amazing. I'm impressed." He gave her a thumbs-up. Just from a guess, she was able to piece everything together. He couldn't help but feel a bit outmatched by her sharp wit.

"So, is it really the enhanced serum in there?" Grace raised an eyebrow. She was surprised that her casual guess was accurate.

"See for yourself." Dustin didn't bother explaining further. He opened the box to show her the two red and blue vials inside.

"Oh? This is an S-class serum from the Hall of Gods. They certainly hold you in high regard." Grace leaned in for a closer look, and she was genuinely surprised.

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The Hall of Gods' enhanced serums were ranked in five tiers-D, C, B, A, and the highest, S. Each level brought a tenfold increase in value and potency. Only gods and their key personnel at the god level or above had access to the S-class serum.

Since the Hall of Gods had given him two vials of S-level serum, it showed how much they valued him.

"They may value me, but it sure comes with its costs. I mean, they just forcedto drink a vial of poison.” Dustin shrugged.

"Poison?" Grace frowned, "What kind? Is there a cure?" "I've already digested it, and there's nothing left. Don't forget that my body is immune to all poisons." He smiled faintly.

Aside from the ten deadliest poisons, most wouldn't affect him. His body could quickly break them down, and anything more potent could be flushed out with his mystical, pure energy.

"I'm glad you're fine." Grace sighed in relief, but her expression quickly turned serious. “I know what you're thinking, but I have to remind you that your safety comes first. Don't take unnecessary risks.” Despite Dustin's considerable strength, the Hall of Gods was hto many powerful elites. If his identity were exposed and someone schemed against him, he could be in danger.

"Don't worry. I have a plan. I won't do anything reckless," he said with a nod.

"As long as you know what you're doing." She dropped the subject and asked, "What do you plan to do with these two vials of enhanced serum?" "Of course, I'm giving them to you for research," Dustin said earnestly. "The enhanced serums from the Hall of Gods are among the best in the world. If we can unlock their secrets, it would be a huge benefit to our nation.” Dragonmarsh had a long way to go in genetic research compared to the Streuquan countries. He hoped this opportunity would help them advance in that field.

"These two vials are extremely valuable. Are you really willing to part with them?" Grace asked seriously. "If you drink them, you could easily becthe champion in the Combat Tournament." Dustin and Glenn were tied for first on the Legendary List, and no one knew who was stronger. If Dustin used the serums, his chances of winning would increase tically.

She naturally wanted him to win for the greater good, mixed with spersonal reasons.

"Drinking the enhanced serum might boost my strength slightly, but it won't make much difference for me," Dustin said calmly.

He continued, “Besides, it could lead to addiction if I drink something like that. I'm not going to let a couple of vials kill my fighting spirit." A martial artist's cultivation was a slow and steady journey, with each ounce of power earned through diligent effort. The path to strength required both physical refinement and mental fortitude. Both elements relied on each other, and neither could be ignored.

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In contrast, the enhanced serums developed in Streuqua offered rapid boosts in strength, but they also cwith severe drawbacks.

First, gaining power too quickly created a reliance on the serum and caused them to lose their drive to train hard.

Second, the sudden influx of power was difficult to control. The user might not notice any issues whem my facing an average martial artist. ཞ] However, against a true expert, the inability to manage that newfound strength could expose serious weaknesses and put them in real danger.

For Dustin, the enhanced serum was unnecessary and something he had no interest in. Could someone ben called strong if they relied on serum? If that were the case, then Jeremiah wouldn't have been blown to bits by him. "Since you've made your decision, I won't say more. Thank you on behalf of Dragonmarsh. If we achieve a significant breakthrough in genetics, you'll be the one we credit as the hero," Grace said earnestly.

Whether it was the Predator they had captured with beast-like abilities or the enhanced serum from the Hall of Gods, both were invaluable assets for Dragonmarsh's research team.

If the research was done right, it could save them decades of setbacks. That was why Dustin's contribution was essential.

"Don't make it sound so formal. Think of it as a small gift from me. Just don't leaveout when the good stuff comes your way." He smiled.

Dustin didn't have grand ideas of sacrificing himself for his country, but he felt it was essential to m om contribute within his means. Born and raised in Dragonmarsh, he couldn't stand by while outside forces invaded his homeland. If he did, he would lose all respect for himself.

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2468

Dustin glanced at the vial of poison. He hesitated briefly before nodding. Since Mr. Styles thinks highly of me, I should show my commitment." 11 He picked up the vial, twisted off the cap, and downed the poison in one go without leaving a drop behind. To make sure Hank could see clearly, Dustin tipped the bottle upside down to show it was empty.

Dustin's body was immune to most toxins, so this tiny dose didn't concern him.

Hank laughed heartily at the sight. "You're really bold!" Drinking the poison would prove Dustin's commitment to joining the Hall of Gods, and it was the only way to earn their trust. No matter how convincing his words were, they would mean nothing without that act of loyalty. While the Hall of Gods valued talent, loyalty was their top priority. Only those who proved their unwavering commitment would be granted special training.

Hence, the most effective way was to put one's life in their hands. This was a reality that everyone faced, including Hank. When a mission was assigned, they all had to take the poison first as a testament to their allegiance.

"Mr. Styles, I've shown my sincerity. What do you needto do next?" Dustin asked again.

He surmised that the Hall of Gods had something up their sleeve, but the details remained murky. He needed to understand their detailed strategy to prepare himself properly. Otherwise, what he had done earlier would be for nothing.

"You don't need to do anything for now. Just concentrate on honing your skills for tomorrow's match," Hank said with a smile.

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He continued, "Given your talent and the enhanced serum, you have a solid chance of winning. I'll reveal our full plan once you defeat the other contestants and claim the championship. Then, you'll see just how great the Hall of Gods truly is." "Mr. Styles, do you not trust me?" Dustin frowned and looked displeased.

"Dustin, don't get the wrong idea. It's not that I don't trust you. Frankly, I also don't know the plan," Hank said helplessly.

He continued, "The God King is in charge of this operation and won't share the details before we act. It's a precaution to prevent leaks and ensure we can adapt as needed." "Oh? "Is it that important to keep everything so secret? Even someone of your status also didn't know the details?" Dustin was surprised.

"That's just how things have always been. I hope you can understand," Hank said with a wry smile.

It might sound absurd, but that was the reality. Regular members of the Hall of Gods had a bit more leeway, but anyone with a title or being groomed for something special faced stricter supervision. They had plenty of resources at their disposal, but their freedom was quite limited.

"Okay, I'll go along with it. I won't press further if this is how the Hall of Gods operates. Just letknow if you need anything." Dustin decided not to press further to avoid raising any suspicions.

"Great. I'll take my leave now. I'm looking forward to your impressive performance tomorrow." Hank nodded as he stood up and left hastily.

The tavern bustled with patrons, and every eye seemingly fixed on him. The longer he lingered, the greater the risk of drawing unwanted attention. He had to stay vigilant until his plan was in motion.

After confirming Hank had left, Dustin stashed away the two vials of enhanced serum. He then leaped out of the back window and disappeared from view.

Ten minutes later, he silently appeared in a secluded courtyard. It was small but tastefully adorned, which showcased the owner's refined style.

Dustin approached the bedroom door and knocked.

Moments later, the door swung open to reveal a young woman. She wasn't conventionally beautiful, but there was something quietly captivating about her.

Her most striking feature was her bright, shining eyes, which sparkled like stars. The woman was Grace Linsor, who had disguised herself using Face-Changing Art.

"You're here. Please cin." She smiled and gestured with one hand.

Only a select few knew where she lived. When Dustin stepped into the courtyard, she sensed his familiar presence, so his visit was entirely expected.

He walked in and sat down on the couch.

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"Can I get you something to drink?” she asked casually.

"Water," he replied, not bothering with formalities..

"Sure." Grace grabbed a bottle of water and set it down in front of him. Then, she asked, "Is there a pressing matter that brought you here at this hour?" "Take a guess." Dustin uncapped the bottle and took a sip of water, deliberately creating suspense.

"Guess?" She smiled. "It's probably related to the Hall of Gods, right? They've sent someone to recruit you?"

"Oh? How did you know?" He raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. He yosed. Lanything, yet she had hadn't said figured it out with uncanny accuracy. Her perceptiveness was remarkable.

"Your performance in the battle ring today was incredible. If I were in their shoes, K'd be eager to recruit you. It makes perfect sense." Grace's smile was unwavering. "You're as sharp as ever. Now, care to guess what's inside this box?" Dustin placed the box Hank had given him on the table.

She studied the box carefully and said, "If the Hall of Gods wants to recruit you, offering you something as common as gold or jewels won't cut it.

"Given their style, whatever they send now has to be something that directly enhances your strength and helps you win the tournament.

"It's likely something unique to them and something outsiders can't get their hands on. If I'm not mistaken, that box probably contains an enhanced serum or something similar." Dustin was taken aback.

No way could she have guessed that. Was she psychic or something?

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2469

Dustin carefully examined the box and ensured there were no unusual markings before turning to Grace. He asked blankly, "Did you actually guess, or can you see what is inside?" "Of course, I guessed it. I don't have X-ray vision, so how could I see it?" She rolled her eyes.

"Amazing. I'm impressed." He gave her a thumbs-up. Just from a guess, she was able to piece everything together. He couldn't help but feel a bit outmatched by her sharp wit.

"So, is it really the enhanced serum in there?" Grace raised an eyebrow. She was surprised that her casual guess was accurate.

"See for yourself." Dustin didn't bother explaining further. He opened the box to show her the two red and blue vials inside.

"Oh? This is an S-class serum from the Hall of Gods. They certainly hold you in high regard." Grace leaned in for a closer look, and she was genuinely surprised.

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The Hall of Gods' enhanced serums were ranked in five tiers-D, C, B, A, and the highest, S. Each level brought a tenfold increase in value and potency. Only gods and their key personnel at the god level or above had access to the S-class serum.

Since the Hall of Gods had given him two vials of S-level serum, it showed how much they valued him.

"They may value me, but it sure comes with its costs. I mean, they just forcedto drink a vial of poison.” Dustin shrugged.

"Poison?" Grace frowned, "What kind? Is there a cure?" "I've already digested it, and there's nothing left. Don't forget that my body is immune to all poisons." He smiled faintly.

Aside from the ten deadliest poisons, most wouldn't affect him. His body could quickly break them down, and anything more potent could be flushed out with his mystical, pure energy.

"I'm glad you're fine." Grace sighed in relief, but her expression quickly turned serious. “I know what you're thinking, but I have to remind you that your safety comes first. Don't take unnecessary risks.” Despite Dustin's considerable strength, the Hall of Gods was hto many powerful elites. If his identity were exposed and someone schemed against him, he could be in danger.

"Don't worry. I have a plan. I won't do anything reckless," he said with a nod.

"As long as you know what you're doing." She dropped the subject and asked, "What do you plan to do with these two vials of enhanced serum?" "Of course, I'm giving them to you for research," Dustin said earnestly. "The enhanced serums from the Hall of Gods are among the best in the world. If we can unlock their secrets, it would be a huge benefit to our nation.” Dragonmarsh had a long way to go in genetic research compared to the Streuquan countries. He hoped this opportunity would help them advance in that field.

"These two vials are extremely valuable. Are you really willing to part with them?" Grace asked seriously. "If you drink them, you could easily becthe champion in the Combat Tournament." Dustin and Glenn were tied for first on the Legendary List, and no one knew who was stronger. If Dustin used the serums, his chances of winning would increase tically.

She naturally wanted him to win for the greater good, mixed with spersonal reasons.

"Drinking the enhanced serum might boost my strength slightly, but it won't make much difference for me," Dustin said calmly.

He continued, “Besides, it could lead to addiction if I drink something like that. I'm not going to let a couple of vials kill my fighting spirit." A martial artist's cultivation was a slow and steady journey, with each ounce of power earned through diligent effort. The path to strength required both physical refinement and mental fortitude. Both elements relied on each other, and neither could be ignored.

Follow on mediaurdu.blogspot.com

In contrast, the enhanced serums developed in Streuqua offered rapid boosts in strength, but they also cwith severe drawbacks.

First, gaining power too quickly created a reliance on the serum and caused them to lose their drive to train hard.

Second, the sudden influx of power was difficult to control. The user might not notice any issues whem my facing an average martial artist. ཞ] However, against a true expert, the inability to manage that newfound strength could expose serious weaknesses and put them in real danger.

For Dustin, the enhanced serum was unnecessary and something he had no interest in. Could someone ben called strong if they relied on serum? If that were the case, then Jeremiah wouldn't have been blown to bits by him. "Since you've made your decision, I won't say more. Thank you on behalf of Dragonmarsh. If we achieve a significant breakthrough in genetics, you'll be the one we credit as the hero," Grace said earnestly.

Whether it was the Predator they had captured with beast-like abilities or the enhanced serum from the Hall of Gods, both were invaluable assets for Dragonmarsh's research team.

If the research was done right, it could save them decades of setbacks. That was why Dustin's contribution was essential.

"Don't make it sound so formal. Think of it as a small gift from me. Just don't leaveout when the good stuff comes your way." He smiled.

Dustin didn't have grand ideas of sacrificing himself for his country, but he felt it was essential to m om contribute within his means. Born and raised in Dragonmarsh, he couldn't stand by while outside forces invaded his homeland. If he did, he would lose all respect for himself.

AN UNDERSTATED DOMINANCE (DUSTIN RHYS) 

Chapter 2470

"You've done so much for me. How could I ever forget your kindness?" Grace smiled and asked, "By the way, with the Hall of Gods going all out to recruit you, they must have stasks lined up for you, right? They don't invest like that without expecting a return." "You're right." Dustin nodded. He said candidly, "They wanton their side partly because of my potential but also because they need my help with their plan to invade Sacred Wyrm Summit." "As expected, they're as ambitious as ever." She narrowed her eyes and asked, "Did they tell you any specific details of the plan?" "No." He shook his head. "Mr. Styles said that aside from the God King, no one knows the details, not even him. Everyone just follows orders." "That definitely fits their style." Grace nodded.

She wasn't surprised since the Hall of Gods was always extremely cautious regarding major operations. Even those at the god level, who had served for many years, weren't privy to the entire plan.

Their level of confidentiality made it difficult for Dragonmarsh's insiders within the Hall of Gods to gather valuable intelligence.

"Now it's just a waiting game. But you need to be ready. I'll let you know when I get any news," Dustin said. "Great. I'll be waiting for your update." Grace nodded.

He didn't say much else. After exchanging a few pleasantries, he quietly returned to the tavern where he was staying.

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In a lavish lakeside villa, Fenley and Alloy were engaged in conversation.

"Fenley, are you sure about this? The Advancil pill will help you break through to the ultimate grandmaster level, but it'll have lasting effects on your future growth. You really need to think this through.” Alloy placed a small box containing the tablet on the table. His expression turned serious as he warned him. "Godfather, I don't have any other choice. I have to take this risk," Fenley said with a fierce determination in his eyes.

He added, "Today's match maderealize that I still have a lot to improve. If I can't break through to the ultimate grandmaster level, I won't stand a chance in tomorrow's tournament finals." After witnessing Glenn's incredible strength and feeling the pressure from dark horses like Dustin, Fenley finally realized a harsh truth-the tournament was brutal. If he didn't give it everything he had, victory would slip through his fingers.

With that in mind, Fenley decided to take the leap and break through to the next level. It was the only way he could go head-to-head with Glenn.

"Since you've made your choice, I won't try to dissuade you. Focus on your breakthrough. Tonight, I'll stand guard for you." Alloy nodded.

He realized that if Fenley couldn't make the breakthrough, winning the tournament the next day would be out of reach. Moreover, securing a spot in the top three was far from certain.

"Thank you, Godfather. I won't let you down." Fenley nodded before swallowing the Advancil. He began to absorb its power in preparation for his breakthrough to the ultimate grandmaster level.

Alloy quietly sat beside him and stayed vigilant. After all, Fenley was the future hope of the Celestial Alliance, and his breakthrough had to go off without a hitch.

Apart from them, similar scenarios were unfolding in other guilds. Scontestants were taking enhancement tablets, while others were refining their guild's divine artifacts and kept hidden aces up their sleeves.

Everyone was preparing for tomorrow's match and knew failure wasn't an option.

The night passed without incident, and by the following morning, Sacred Wyrm Summit was already bustling with people. Representatives from all major guilds and factions had gathered. Even shigh-profile experts who typically avoid the spotlight made rare appearances.

This was the most prestigious tournament the martial world had seen in a century, with nearly all the younger martial artists gathered under one roof.

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Today, they would crown the champion. The victor would undoubtedly be celebrated as the strongest prodigy in the martial world. This title would symbolize unmatched talent, bring great honor, and ensure their legacy for future generations. Even before the tournament began, the crowd was already buzzing with excitement.

The eight finalists in the tournament were Glenn from the Sword Union, Fenley from the Celestial Alliance, Abigail from the Mystic Arts Order, Dalen from the Shadow Citadel, Caleb from Sacred Wrym Summit, Emeret from the Sword Union, Zane from the Embraco Order, and Dustin, an independent contestant with no affiliations.

Among these contestants, Glenn, Fenley, and Abigail stood out as the top contenders for the for the tournament finals. Theinguilds had deep roots in the martial world, and all three were top- ranking names on the Legendary List. So, it made them the favorites to take hthe championship title. The other five were also exceptional talents. Each had a legitimate shot at the tournament finals, though they paled slightly compared to Glenn and the other favorites.

In the battle ring, anything could happen in the blink of an eye. Until the final moments, the outcremained uncertain.

There were countless stories of underdogs defeating stronger opponents and even martial artists who seemed destined for victory lost for various reasons. This unpredictability added a thrilling edge to the matches.

About an hour later, the contestants made their entrance. The atmosphere swelled with thunderous applause and cheers.