An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Dustin, I understand your concerns,” Hank said with a smile.

“But I can promise you, as long as you stay loyal and don’t betray the Hall of Gods, you won’t be in danger. We highly value talent like yours. Honestly, the poison is just a safeguard to keep our secrets safe. I’m sure you understand.”

Without taking the poison, there was no way to exert control, which meant trust would always be in question. This wasn’t much of an issue with disposable operatives, but loyalty had to be guaranteed when the Hall of Gods counted on someone for critical positions.

“Mr. Styles, I understand what you’re saying, and the Hall of Gods sounds intriguing. But we’ve just met, and it’s hard for me to put my complete trust in you right now.” Dustin shook his head again.

He thought, “Do they really think they can make demands without offering anything in return? Do they take me for a fool?”

“Trust can be built. Just take a look at this…” Hank reached into his coat and pulled out a small, ornate box. He slid it across the table toward Dustin.

“What’s this?” Dustin opened the box and saw two vials. One was red, and the other was blue. At first glance, they didn’t seem extraordinary. However, upon closer inspection, he could feel a powerful and unique energy within them.

“To be honest, these are enhanced serums specially crafted by the Hall of Gods. They’re incredibly rare. Only those at the god level or higher have the privilege of using them,” Hank explained.

He gestured to the vials and continued, “The red serum primarily boosts physical attributes like speed, strength, defense, and reflexes. The blue serum significantly enhances internal energy. In Dragonmarsh terms, it’s like spiritual essence, which is something you can absorb directly.”

“Oh? Is it really that impressive?”

raised an

Dragonmarsh,

in their abilities, faced shorter lifespans, and had to take the

drawn to this path. It was a tempting shortcut to strength that didn’t require much effort or natural

match, right? George and

compare to a genius like you, I’m sure you noticed how much stronger they got. The downside is that their natural abilities are limited, so they can only tap into about half of what

be the champion of this Combat Tournament. What do you say? Are you happy with this gift?” He smiled

on growth and self-improvement. Strength was the ultimate goal for those who sought power, and no martial artist could resist the allure of becoming even

seem great, but… are there any side effects?” Dustin studied the two vials with

the opportunity. “Don’t worry. These two vials contain our most advanced formulas. They’re expensive to make, and I promise you, they

serum requires long-term use, or the effects wear off. Is

earlier formulas, these serums are nearly perfect. With just one dose a year, you can

worry about a thing. Once you join the Hall of Gods,

nodded thoughtfully, yet his

would fall under the Hall of Gods’ control. If anyone dared to defy their orders, their

used these addictive substances to keep powerful martial artists under their thumb.

to join the Hall of Gods and achieve something extraordinary together?” Hank offered