An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2406
“The younger generation is really stepping up,” Alloy said, narrowing his eyes in surprise and delight.
He knew Dustin was Seth’s student, but he never thought Dustin could beat Glenn. The result was completely unexpected.
Alloy lost his bet, but he wasn’t upset. At least the Sword Union didn’t win the title, giving the Celestial Alliance a chance to make their move.
Now, he had to think about how to recruit Dustin into his guild. Training resources and empty promises wouldn’t work, especially since the Sword Union and the Mystic Arts Order also wanted him.
Alloy knew he needed a different strategy. Then he remembered Dustin’s close relationship with his daughters. Maybe a little matchmaking could help him out.
“You’ve been holding back, and now you’re finally making a splash,” Penelope said with a grin. She was thrilled with Dustin’s performance.
Since Abigail was still single, Penelope thought that having Dustin marry her would benefit the Mystic Arts Order greatly.
Even though this didn’t fully fit with the guild’s traditions, she believed that rules could be changed, especially as times evolved.
“Those with real potential don’t stay in small places. When the time comes, they will rise,” Kaden sighed.
Before the match ended, no one had expected Dustin to win. This underdog had left everyone in shock.
When Glenn admitted defeat, Kaden stood up and announced, “The match is over. I’m proud to declare that this tournament’s champion is Dustin Rhys.”
The crowd erupted in cheers, and applause filled the venue.
Dustin and Glenn’s incredible performance captivated the audience. No one had ever seen such an intense and exciting battle.
The arena lay in ruins, the defensive formation shattered. Even though they were completely drained of energy, the fighters showcased an amazing display of swordsmanship. For the spectators, it was worth the risk to see such a thrilling match. This was a fight they would remember forever.
“Ha! He did it! Dustin won!” one person shouted.
“My big gamble paid off! I’m going to make a fortune!” another cheered.
“Ugh, what bad luck! I should have bet on Dustin instead of Glenn,” someone else sighed.
While some were ecstatic about their bets on Dustin, others who had wagered on Glenn looked disappointed. Despite the mixed feelings among a small group of gamblers, the overall mood remained lively. Dustin’s name echoed throughout the venue.
After the tournament, it was time to hand out the prizes. The top three contestants would receive rewards. First, they called up Abigail, who took third place, followed by Glenn in second. Both received rare treasures that would greatly benefit the Sword Union and the Mystic Arts Order.
However, Dustin, the champion, didn’t get his prize right away. Instead, Kaden personally guided him to the Sacred Wyrm Summit manor. The winner had been promised the Sage’s secret treasure, but no one knew exactly what it was.
Dustin suspected the secret treasure was tied to the Dracan essence, which was the main reason he entered the Combat Tournament. After leaving the venue, he followed Kaden through several doors until they reached the inner sanctum.
“After that intense match, you should rest for a bit. I have something important to handle. I’ll be back shortly,” Kaden said.
“Someone, bring tea for our guest!” he called out, leading Dustin to a chair and instructing someone to prepare the tea.
bringing tea and snacks before leaving.”
As dusk settled over Sacred Wyrm Summit, everything was calm and orderly, just as it always was. Dustin was already there and, since he wasn’t in a hurry, he decided to relax. He sipped his tea and waited quietly.
Finally, when night fell, Kaden returned. But this time, he had a tall, elderly man with him.
The man had a round face, a full head of white hair, and a sturdy build. His cheerful expression made him seem friendly, but Kaden showed great respect in his presence.
Dustin’s demeanor shifted when he saw the elderly man. He quickly stood up and bowed his head. “Greetings, Ancient Sage. I’m Dustin Rhys.”
The elderly man was none other than Arion Foyer, the legendary figure who had dominated the martial world for years.
“Don’t be so tense, kid. Take a seat,” Arion said with a chuckle, lightly patting Dustin’s shoulder. He didn’t carry the usual air of superiority that elders often had.
Dustin nodded and sat down as Arion had suggested. Although he had been looking forward to this moment, seeing Arion in person was a completely different experience.
At first glance, Arion might seem ordinary, but his presence was vast and powerful, like the ocean. The more powerful he was, the more overwhelming his energy felt to Dustin.
It wasn’t something Arion tried to project; it was just the feeling of being small and insignificant in the face of such strength. Even with his own skills, standing before Arion made Dustin feel like an ant.
“You take a seat too,” Arion said, gesturing for the still-tense Kaden to join him.
“Kid, congratulations on…
Winning the championship came with a special reward. Dustin could ask Sacred Wyrm Summit for one favor.
“As long as it doesn’t go against martial world ethics and we can do it, we’ll make it happen,” Arion said, settling into his chair with a warm smile.
Dustin’s eyes brightened at this opportunity. The prestige of Sacred Wyrm Summit was unmatched, and Arion’s offer meant a lot. This kind of personal favor could make others in the martial world very jealous; it was worth more than any treasure.
However, Dustin wasn’t sure what to ask for. After a moment of thought, he replied, “Ancient Sage, I haven’t decided yet. Can I save it for later?”
“Of course,” Arion chuckled. “But don’t wait too long. What if I drop dead one day and can’t keep my promise?”
“Ancient Sage, stop joking. You’ll live to be 100,” Dustin quickly responded.
“100?” Arion raised an eyebrow and laughed even harder. “You’re funny, kid.”
Dustin then noticed Kaden’s strange expression and realized his mistake.
Arion was nearly 200 years old.
Dustin’s words could be seen as either a blessing or a curse, and he quickly understood he had misspoken.