An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“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.

through the window. It was so quiet that it was almost impossible to notice. When the figure stopped, it revealed

cups of tea and pushed one toward her. He had already hinted at their private

her gaze fell on the

guess?” Dustin was thinking

it be the Dracan essence?”

I can never get anything

before. But now, she had immediately identified

Sacred Wyrm Summit’s Forbidden Ground has many rare treasures. It was only

Dracan essence

Grace smiled faintly.

out your identity and intentions. By offering

open it. “Dustin raised his chin

opened the jade box. But when she saw what was inside, her expression

right? Three Dracan

but she never imagined there would be three. It was almost

Sacred Wyrm Summit, anyway?

do you think? Surprised? Didn’t see that coming?” Dustin said with a smirk. “I had the same reaction when I first saw all

this is unbelievable!” Grace’s eyes

Essences in her hands, she only needed one more to restore the nation’s glory. The progress had been so fast,

out a contented sigh.

hadn’t won the championship, who