"Alright … he's here. Good luck," Lana said with a mischievous smile. She subtly jutted her chin in a certain direction.Dustin followed her gaze and saw a young man dressed in a classy suit making his way to the second floor. With his long hair and a folding fan in hand, he exuded an old-school charm. It reminded Dustin of classic movie stars.Surrounded by a group of bodyguards and attendants, it was clear that this guy was the center of attention. Anyone attempting to get closer was swiftly blocked. There was no doubt that these bodyguards meant business."How about it? He looks pretty good, right? If you're into that sort of thing, you won't be at a loss, either." Lana chuckled, covering her mouth.The excitement in her eyes couldn't be concealed. The prospect of a showdown between two men really thrilled her. She was eager to find an opportunity to sneak a film and enjoy it to the fullest.Dustin couldn't help but roll his eyes at Lana's playful antics. "Could you please
"Whatever it is, you have to follow the rules!" the bodyguard sternly refused."Well, I'll just speak directly with Mr. Dawson," Dustin said."Sorry, guys," he added apologetically. Then, with a swift motion of his hand, a row of silver needles shot out, precisely hitting the necks of several guards. The bodyguards instantly froze, unable to move or even make a sound. Only their eyes were darting around in surprise."This is an unavoidable action. Please forgive me," Dustin said with a nod. With that, he continued into the room.As he entered the room, a sharp gaze immediately swept over him. It was accompanied by a chilling air that sent shivers down his spine. In the next moment, a black steel blade with a fierce blade aura swung viciously at Dustin's neck.Dustin raised his eyebrows and instinctively stepped back. He narrowly avoided the blade as it grazed his throat, sending a shiver down his spine.The room's door, upon being struck by the blade, shattered into pieces. I
"Exceptional quality?"Bo raised an eyebrow, giving Dustin a knowing look that sent shivers down his spine. Was this guy really eyeing him up?Dustin took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. "Mr. Dawson, I've heard that the Dawson family has made significant advancements in the field of medicine."He added, "Well, I happen to have a miraculous topical medicine called Dew Balm. It not only stops bleeding and aids in wound healing but can also remove scars. "Once it hits the market, it's sure to bring in a fortune for the Dawson family.""Topical medicine?" Mr. Dawson said, raising his teacup to take a sip with a hint of disinterest. "We have countless medicines like that in the Dawson family, such as Dawson's Healing Balm. It was specially designed for healing wounds and removing scars, and it far surpasses any other similar product available.""Dawson's Healing Balm, naturally, I've heard of it," Dustin smiled. "But compared to my Dew Balm, it falls quite short.""Oh? Qu
Looking at the wound, it was clear that the cut was deep. If it were an ordinary person, they probably couldn't help but scream. However, Elara remained expressionless throughout. She didn't even furrow her brow. It was as if the blade didn't touch her.This woman was undoubtedly a fierce warrior!"Give me the medicine!" Elara stepped onto a chair. She tore off half of her pants, revealing a well-toned thigh that combined strength and beauty. She scooped out some ointment from a jar and casually applied it to the wound.Then, something magical happened. In just half an hour, the bleeding from the wound had stopped. The cold and numbing sensation made Elara, who had been emotionless, finally show a trace of surprise. As a grandmaster martial artist, she could naturally feel the subtle changes in her body.She had to admit that this ointment was truly extraordinary. After about half an hour, Elara wiped the remaining ointment away with a towel. The previous wound had mostly h
"Dustin, why are you so nervous? I'm not going to eat you." Bo chuckled and gave Dustin's sturdy shoulder a little squeeze. He complimented, "You look slender, but you're quite robust to the touch. It must be one of those cases where clothes make you appear slimmer, but underneath, there's strength. Impressive, really impressive."Dustin shivered with discomfort and hastily pushed Bo's hand away. "I appreciate the compliment, but let's stick to business. I can't accommodate any other requests.""Come on, Dustin! I'm only looking out for your best interests here. With the Dawson family behind you, you'll practically own Oakvale. All you need to do is make a slight sacrifice. It's not a big deal. Remember, most people don't even get this chance."Dustin was bewildered and replied, "Thanks for the offer, but I can't accept that kind of 'chance.'""Man, you just don't realize how lucky you are. If it weren't for your good looks and talent, do you think I'd cut you any slack?" Bo shoo
"Hey, Dustin," Bo Dawson said with enthusiasm, "Have you ever considered becoming my brother-in-law? "If you married into the Dawson family, you'd have our unwavering support. Rain or shine, we'd have your back."He leaned in a bit closer and added, "What's more, my thirteen sisters are not only beautiful but also accomplished in various arts and skills. You wouldn't be at a loss for good company."Bo was playing the role of a matchmaker with all his might.Dustin tactfully declined, saying, "Mr. Dawson, I'm just an ordinary guy. I don't think I could ever reach the heights of the Dawson family."Bo waved off his concerns, saying, "Nonsense! I don't care about any of that. If you catch my eye, you could still be my brother-in-law. My sisters won't refuse."With an enthusiastic grin, Bo pulled out his phone, displaying photos of his sisters. He began to introduce them one by one. "Come on, have a look. These are pictures of my sisters. You can pick anyone you like, no reservati
After reaching an agreement with Bo, Dustin immediately called Lana from the next room. The three of them had a detailed discussion and signed the relevant contracts. With that, the tripartite alliance was officially established.Over the next two days, Dustin juggled between teaching the pharmacists to make Dew Balm and working on the reconstruction of Harmony Healers. He was busy and in high spirits, running from one end to the other. Fortunately, Lana's assistance helped streamline the process. Then, things quickly fell into place.On the side of the Welch and Swanson families, progress was even quicker. The production of Dew Balm had already entered the sales phase. They even rebranded it as "Rejuvenaid". The name signified a miraculous recovery. Although Rejuvenaid didn't meet the drug content standards, the power of their wealth made these concerns practically irrelevant. After a massive promotional campaign, the Welch and Swanson families' Rejuvenaid had gained signifi
"Show them in," Greta replied."Of course."The phone call ended, and a few moments later, the door to the office swung open. Ezra and Eleanor walked in together, both sporting smiles on their faces."Ms. Dawson, we hope we're not disturbing you by coming unannounced," Ezra said with an air of politeness.Eleanor, on the other hand, went straight for the couch and took a seat. She exuded a leader's presence."Mr. Swanson, Ms. Welch, what brings you here today? Do you have any business with me?" Greta maintained her calm demeanor."Business? Yes," Ezra responded with a not-so-subtle smile. "We wanted to discuss a business opportunity with you.""What kind of opportunity?" Greta asked, acting as if she was oblivious to their intent."Ms. Dawson, have you heard about our recent product, Rejuvenaid?" Ezra asked."I've heard of it, yes. What's the matter?" Greta's expression remained composed."Great, that makes things easier." Ezra smiled. Then, he said, "Rejuvenaid, our la
"Mr. Rhys, you're so generous," Felicia said. "I don't know how to repay you."She lightly ran her fingers over the smooth surface of the ornate box. Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she looked up at Dustin gratefully."It was nothing, Ms. Thorns. Don't mention it," he replied with an indifferent smile. "Besides, this Dracan essence was always destined for Prince Nathaniel. I'm merely delivering it."Felicia smiled earnestly. "What do you want in return? If it's within my power, I'll gladly help."Dustin replied, "I'm not asking for anything. I only hope that if I ever find myself in trouble, Prince Nathaniel will be willing to help me.""I get it now." Felicia nodded.Dustin wasn't asking for treasure, but rather seeking a favor from Nathaniel. With Nathaniel's current status, his favor was more valuable than any treasure.If he ascended the throne and became king, the value of that favor would increase exponentially. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that, even if D
When Dustin heard Felicia's word, his hand briefly hesitated before he placed the chess piece. He smiled and said, "I thought you came to learn chess, but I didn't expect you to be here as a messenger."Felicia gave a light, teasing laugh. "With a mind like yours, how could you not know why I'm here?"She added candidly, "Prince Nathaniel saved my life and welcomed me as an honored guest. It's only right that I repay the favor by helping solve his troubles. I hope that it doesn't bother you.""You're frank and gracious, Ms. Thorns. Why would I take offense?" Dustin replied with a faint smile.He had expected her to start with pleasantries or try to butter him up. So, her bluntness actually caught him off guard."To be honest, Prince Nathaniel has never taken this kind of interest in anyone before," Felicia said as she placed another chess piece on the board. She smiled and continued, "I can tell he truly wants you on his side. And as someone close to him, I'd like to help make
Nathaniel's mansion was huge. It was more like a maze than a home. Even with a detailed layout, Dustin had to stay sharp as he moved through the grounds. After all, blueprints never quite captured the twists and turns of the actual place.Led by a maid, he followed a winding path through the corridors for nearly ten minutes before finally arriving at a guesthouse with a garden.The place was spacious and quiet, filled with birdsong and blooming flowers. It was a secluded spot that was ideal for privacy."Mr. Rhys, you can stay here. If you need anything, just let me know," the maid said. Her gaze was warm with a hint of admiration. She had watched Dustin's performance in the training ground earlier and knew he was an important guest brought in by Nathaniel. If she could catch his attention, it could completely turn her life around.He waved her off and said, "Okay. You can go now. I don't need anyone to attend to me." "Uh… but…" The maid hesitated."Don't worry. I'll explain
The crowd murmured among themselves as they looked at the broken broadsword and the stunned expression on Lycas' face."That strike was insanely fast and dead-on too," someone commented."I never expected General Derin's secret move to be defeated like that. It's unbelievable," another said."I thought General Derin could turn things around for us, but he still lost," a third added.Everyone knew how strong Lycas was. As a fully developed grandmaster with a broadsword, he was supposed to be unstoppable. However, at the critical moment, Dustin's strike shattered his broadsword.Lycas' loss was sudden and almost unbelievable. Some blamed bad luck and thought he could have won if things had gone differently. But those who truly understood what happened knew better.Even with Dustin's movement restricted and Lycas unleashing his strongest technique, he still pierced through the opening with near-impossible timing. That strike wasn't just lucky but masterful. It was a brutal display
Lycas gripped his broadsword with both hands and roared. The sound cracked through the air like a thunderclap.He sidestepped sharply and charged straight at Dustin like a raging bull.The heavy broadsword moved like it weighed nothing in his hands. He swung it with brutal speed. Each arc cut through the air with a sharp, whistling howl, as if it could slice through anything in its path.The broadsword came crashing down on Dustin with bone-crushing force, like a mountain falling from the sky.Lycas threw his full weight into the swing. As the sword descended, the force of the strike stirred up dust from the ground. It sent plumes of dirt in every direction.He knew Dustin was no ordinary opponent. If he wanted a chance to win, he had to make the first move and seize the initiative."Nice form," Dustin said.As Lycas launched a powerful, aggressive attack, Dustin remained calm and unruffled. With effortless grace, he sidestepped without the slightest rush. The broadsword whizz
Bryce knew Dustin was strong, but this was beyond anything he anticipated. Though he had gained the upper hand early on, Bryce still believed his skills matched Dustin's.From his observation, Dustin relied on martial arts techniques and hit-and-run tactics. Plus, he didn't dare to confront Bryce head-on.He had assumed that as long as he found an opening, he could exploit Dustin's weaknesses and defeat him. But when Dustin finally stopped holding back, Bryce realized how wrong he'd been.It turned out Dustin wasn't just playing hit-and-run tactics. Instead, he'd held back the entire time to spare Bryce from an embarrassing defeat.The moment Dustin stopped holding back, Bryce didn't stand a chance. Even without special techniques, Dustin's raw power, speed, and reflexes were enough to crush him.The difference in their abilities was staggering, so much so that no amount of skill could close the gap.And it wasn't just Bryce who was shocked. Except for Nathaniel, who had already
Bryce's request for a fight heated up the atmosphere.Soldiers around the training ground started murmuring among themselves."Lieutenant General Gantz is a legend in our ranks. His combat skills are no joke—he's taken down countless enemies on the battlefield. I haven't seen him in action in years," one young soldier said with awe."Yeah," a veteran agreed. "Lieutenant General Gantz has been through countless battles, and his strength is unmatched. If he steps in, Mr. Rhys might be in for a rough time."After the fight earlier, the soldiers knew firsthand that Dustin was no slouch. Otherwise, he wouldn't have easily defeated the five elite soldiers.But in their minds, no matter how skilled Dustin was, he stood no chance against Bryce.Bryce was a grandmaster not just in rank but in skill, physical strength, and battlefield experience. He was stronger than any expert from the martial world.Nathaniel had once recruited several grandmaster martial artists to spar with them, but
"Your Highness, the soldiers under me are trained solely in killing techniques. If they hurt your guest, things could get ugly," Lycas said.He didn't say it outright, but the message was clear. If Dustin wasn't strong enough, he'd better stay out of the way, or he was just asking for trouble.Bryce didn't say anything, but the look he gave Dustin was full of contempt. How could a pampered young man like Dustin measure up to soldiers who've been through the grind? He figured Dustin was probably some heir from a prominent family who knew Nathaniel and was trying to assert his relevance."You guys are blind to greatness when it's standing right in front of you." Nathaniel chuckled and shook his head. He added, "If any of you manage to land a hit on Mr. Rhys, I'll pay out a thousand gold. But honestly, I doubt any of you have what it takes."At the mention of rewards, the soldiers perked up. Their eyes lit up with excitement. They were practically itching to charge at Dustin and g
During the meal, Nathaniel arranged for two women to accompany Dustin.Throughout history, even the greatest heroes couldn't resist the allure of beautiful women. Sometimes, a woman of extraordinary beauty could be far more enticing than rare treasures or high status.Dustin remained composed. He neither showed any enthusiasm nor did he deliberately reject it.As for the women seated on either side of him, he treated them with polite respect. He enjoyed a drink and the easy conversation with them, but nothing beyond that.However, Nathaniel saw it differently. To him, it seemed that Dustin was unimpressed by the women at his side.Considering Dustin's background, it made sense. A woman of ordinary beauty would never catch his attention. Nathaniel realized he would need to pull out all the stops. Perhaps, it was time to bring out his most prized companion and see how Dustin responded.After the meal, he led Dustin to his mansion's training ground.The midday sun blazed overhead