An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

The next morning, Dustin drove to Swinton after making arrangements at Zephyr Lodge. Now that he finally got his hands on the Cherusia, he had all the herbs he needed. Everything was set.

He didn’t know how long Gregory could hold up with the Celestial Decay. He had to produce the Longevitum as soon as possible so as not to have to worry about him.

It took Dustin about half a day to reach Peaceful Medical Center. All was quiet and peaceful in the medical center. Gregory lay on an easy chair, drunk, as usual. He stank of alcohol.

Caitlyn busied herself around the place, wiping the chairs and tables, doing the laundry, and cooking. She kept the medical center clean and in order.

As for Maximus, the sword fanatic, he focused on training in the yard.

While he used to be known as Lightning Blade, he now focused on slowing down. Though it didn’t look much, his every move was restrained yet powerful.

new level of swordsmanship. It was obvious that he had improved a lot within the time that Dustin was away. While Maximus was focused on training, a silver needle suddenly flew at him. It

zeroed in on it as he turned around and struck the needle with his sword. He sliced off the tip of the needle. The needle was sent flying to

a large tree in the yard, pointing his sword at it. “You’ve improved so much in the few months I’ve been away.” Dustin slowly emerged from behind the tree, smiling. Deflecting his needle wasn’t something any other divine-level martial

before he broke out into a grin. ” You’re finally back!” Then, throwing his sword aside, he

they saw two grown

out! Look who’s back!” Maximus

Rhys!” Caitlyn came running, surprised to see him. “When did you return, Mr. Rhys? Why didn’t you inform us

been?” “We’ve been great. Every day has been peaceful, and we have all we need.” Caitlyn smiled.

months. And

Maximus had just reached the divine level, his true ability was on par with those martial artists who had long since reached the divine

Dustin asked. “Same old. He still drinks himself

chuckled as he made his way into the medical center. Gregory laid haphazardly on an easy chair, disheveled and reeking