An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Ms. Aurora, don’t make fun of me. The Celestial Alliance is full of experts- there’s no way someone like me could take on a disciple,” Dustin declined with a smile. “Of course, we’re friends. If you ever want to talk about martial arts, just reach out.”

“Alright then, if I ever need advice, you’d better not turn me down,” Aurora said with a playful wink.

She was just asking to see how he would respond. After all, she wasn’t serious about wanting to become his disciple. It was more of a way to get closer to him, and now that she had an excuse to ask for his guidance, she was satisfied.

Once everyone was seated, the conversation flowed easily. They drank and talked about anything and everything.

The two Marshall sisters exchanged flirtatious glances across the table, a gesture that even the most oblivious observer couldn’t miss.

However, Dustin kept a polite smile on his face. He either ignored their advances or skillfully deflected them.

He knew exactly what they were after. With his recent victory and growing fame, the Celestial Alliance would likely try to recruit him.

Becoming the Celestial Alliance’s honorary consultant was still an outsider position. There was no strong bond between him and the guild. However, if he became an elder-or married one of the Marshall sisters- his status would change completely.

But Dustin wasn’t interested in any of that. He’d only agreed to the honorary position because of Grace. Joining the Celestial Alliance, however, was out of

the question. He wasn’t about to become just another pawn in someone else’s game.

After the feast, everyone finally left.

Dustin watched them go before returning to his room. He placed the jade box with the Dracan essence on the table.

that it was almost impossible to notice. When the figure stopped, it revealed a woman in blue with delicate features. It was

cups of tea and pushed one toward her.

gaze fell on the jade box.

a guess?” Dustin was thinking of testing

so mysterious. Could it be the Dracan essence?” Grace

sharp. I can never get anything past you.” Dustin was

the enhanced serum from the Hall of Gods before. But now, she had immediately

both know that Sacred Wyrm Summit’s Forbidden Ground has many

the Dracan

Grace smiled faintly.

probably figured out your identity and intentions. By offering you the Dracan essence as part of the championship

ahead and open it. “Dustin raised his chin slightly

didn’t hesitate and quickly opened the jade box. But when she saw what was

I seeing this right? Three Dracan essences?” Her eyes

Dracan essence, but she never

Summit, anyway?

Surprised? Didn’t see that coming?” Dustin said with a smirk. “I had the same reaction

Grace’s eyes

she almost couldn’t process it. With four out of the five Dracan Essences in her hands, she only needed one more to restore the nation’s glory. The progress had been so fast, and it was almost

Dracan essence. The future looks promising.” Dustin stretched, letting out a contented sigh. With the mission nearly complete, he felt