An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2509

Chapter 2509
Mulder’s body trembled, and he suddenly coughed up a mouthful of blood. His energy drained, and his entire being seemed to collapse.

Dustin’s flick hadn’t just shattered his sword—it had also injured his internal organs. Now that the enhanced serum’s effects were wearing off, Mulder was back to his original state, completely spent.

His once-powerful frame deflated like a punctured balloon, making him look as if he had aged ten years in an instant.

Mulder could no longer fight. Even standing was a challenge.

“He’s finished,” Dustin said coolly, turning his gaze to Warrick. “Now it’s your turn.”

“Hmm?” Warrick frowned, his expression growing serious.

Dustin’s earlier display of strength sent a wave of unease through him. If they fought head-on, there was no telling who would come out on top.

But Warrick was just one step away from escaping West Lucozia, bound for Artea and a life of luxury. He had no intention of risking his life in battle unless absolutely necessary.

Desperation could drive a man to fight with everything he had, but when survival seemed possible, hesitation crept in.

“Young man, there’s no bad blood between us. We don’t have to fight—neither of us gains anything from it. Let’s talk this through. It’ll be better for both of us.” Warrick narrowed his eyes.

“Oh?” Dustin smirked. “And what exactly do you want to talk about?”

“Let’s be honest—you’re doing this for money. And I happen to have more than I know what to do with,” Warrick said, his tone turning persuasive.

He continued, “If you walk away now, I’ll tell you where my treasure is hidden. There’s enough gold and jewels there to last you a lifetime.”

Dustin raised an eyebrow. “Sounds tempting, but how do I know you’re not lying?”

“I’m a man of my word. My reputation in West Lucozia speaks for itself. Why would I need to lie?” Warrick said earnestly.

“Besides,” he added, “I’m leaving West Lucozia for good. I have no use for all that gold and silver. Might as well give it to you as a favor. What do you say?”

“Let me think about it…” Dustin stroked his chin, pretending to ponder.

Seeing this, Warrick felt a spark of hope and continued persuading. “Opportunities like this don’t come often. This is your chance at instant wealth. With that treasure, you could live a life of luxury anywhere. There’d be no need to risk your life working for others anymore.”

“You make a good point,” Dustin nodded. “So, where’s the treasure?”

“We have a deal?” Warrick’s eyes lit up.

“Of course. Only a fool would turn down an offer like that,” Dustin replied without hesitation.

“Good! You really are a smart one!”

Warrick finally smiled, then pulled a parchment from his coat and tossed it toward Dustin. “This is a treasure map I drew myself. With it, you’ll have no trouble finding the stash.”

Dustin unfolded the parchment. Sure enough, it was a treasure map, marked in detail. The treasure’s location was hidden deep within Vastreach Peak in West Lucozia.

“Smart choice hiding it in the mountains.” Dustin tucked the parchment away. Those riches had been stolen from the people. Now, they were his to reclaim.

“No choice—just playing it safe,” Warrick chuckled.

A man in his position knew better than to keep all his wealth in one place. While he had valuables stored at home, most of his fortune was buried in Vastreach Peak.

That stash was his backup plan, his way to make a comeback. Once things settled down, he had planned to retrieve it little by little.

But now, for the sake of survival, he had no choice but to give it up. Compared to his life, money was just money. As long as he lived, he could always make more.

“Alright. Since you’ve been so generous, I’ll give you a chance… to surrender,” Dustin said with a smile.

“Huh?” Warrick frowned. “Young man, didn’t you agree earlier? I give you the map, and you let us leave. Are you going back on your word?”

“Agree? When did I say that?” Dustin spread his hands innocently. “I don’t seem to recall.”

“Punk! Don’t push me!” Warrick’s face darkened. “I gave you the treasure map not out of fear, but because I didn’t want unnecessary trouble. If you keep pushing, don’t expect me to hold back.”

He had already shown enough sincerity, but he hadn’t expected Dustin to be so ungrateful. If forced into a corner, he wouldn’t mind going down with him.