An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Me?” Dustin froze momentarily, then quickly waved his hands to indicate his refusal. “Ancient Sage, you’ve got to be kidding. I’m not qualified to guard the Dracan force. You’d better find someone else.”

He knew taking on such a monumental responsibility was out of the question. Guarding the Dracan Force wasn’t like watching over someone’s garden. A single mistake could endanger not only Sacred Wyrm Summit but all of Dragonmarsh. The pressure was simply overwhelming.

“Don’t be so quick to refuse,” Arion said with a smile.

He continued, “Guarding the Dracan force has its perks. For one, it’s a spiritual entity. If you can connect with it, your cultivation will soar, and your lifespan will extend dramatically. With its power behind you, you’ll be

unbeatable. No one in the world could stand in your way.”

Arion wasn’t exaggerating. Being recognized by the Dracan force as its guardian granted access to its vast energy and created a resonance with the natural order. It was what people called the realm of terrestrial immortals.

If Alaric had fought Seth a year ago near the Dragon Guard, the outcome of that battle might have been entirely different.

“To be honest, I’m not cut out for responsibilities like that. I’ve always preferred a more carefree life. As for advancing my cultivation or extending my lifespan, I’m really not that interested,” Dustin declined.

With great power came great responsibility, and that was a burden he wasn’t willing to shoulder. He

freedom and didn’t want

wasn’t ready for that kind of sacrifice, nor was he the type to give up everything

won’t push you. But if you change your mind, come find me anytime.”

guardian for the Dracan force, but ultimately, it all came down

Arion wasn’t going to press the matter. Some things were just a matter of timing- everything would fall into place when the right moment

Dustin let out a quiet sigh of relief. He had been genuinely worried that his refusal might provoke Arion into taking back the

clearly, someone of Arion’s caliber, who had long transcended worldly concerns, wouldn’t stoop to threats or coercion-that

not busy, stay here tonight. I’ve got some things to take care of, so I’ll head out.” After a

Ancient Sage.” Dustin immediately lowered

Arion had left, Dustin finally relaxed. Despite Arion’s friendly demeanor and lack of overt superiority

even in his

from ordinary, no matter how

a heads- up, so he

and see if any other ploys

after leaving Sacred Wyrm Summit, he found Grace waiting for him.

Dalen, Miles, and the others were gathered. Though they all came from different guilds, they were united for one purpose –