An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2535

Bryce had always known Dustin was strong—but this was far beyond what he’d expected. Although Bryce had gained the upper hand early in the fight, he still believed his skills were on par with Dustin’s.

From what he’d observed, Dustin relied on martial arts techniques and evasive, hit-and-run tactics. He seemed unwilling to face Bryce directly.

Bryce had assumed that if he could find an opening, he could exploit Dustin’s weaknesses and claim victory. But once Dustin stopped holding back, Bryce realized just how mistaken he’d been.

Dustin hadn’t simply been using hit-and-run tactics—he had been restraining himself the entire time, sparing Bryce from a humiliating defeat.

The moment Dustin unleashed his full strength, Bryce didn’t stand a chance. Even without special techniques, Dustin’s raw power, speed, and reflexes completely overwhelmed him.

The disparity in their abilities was staggering—no amount of skill could bridge the gap.

And Bryce wasn’t the only one left stunned. Everyone, except Nathaniel who had anticipated this outcome, was in shock.

No one had expected that once Dustin went all out, a single strike would be enough to bring Bryce down.

After all, Bryce was a seasoned grandmaster—a revered figure among his peers.

Yes, his earlier aggressive offense had drained some of his energy, but that meant little when Dustin landed his decisive blow.

It was clear to everyone—they had underestimated the seemingly modest Dustin.

“Mr. Rhys, your strength is exceptional. I concede,” Bryce said.

He stood and saluted Dustin, the contempt in his eyes replaced with sincere respect.

In the military, strength earned admiration. A young, powerful fighter like Dustin was someone everyone aspired to be.

“I appreciate the match, General Gantz,” Dustin replied with a salute. There was no arrogance in his voice.

To him, this had merely been a training session—an exercise to help Nathaniel sharpen his soldiers. The outcome had never been uncertain.

“So, what do you think? Has everyone finally realized there’s always someone better?” Nathaniel asked, sweeping his gaze over the group, his words carrying a subtle warning.

He continued, “You’ve all trained hard, but too many of you have grown arrogant, too proud of your abilities. I brought Mr. Rhys here to remind you—stay humble, be patient, and always strive to improve.”

“Yes, Your Highness,” the soldiers answered in unison, clearly inspired by Dustin’s youth and strength.
“If anyone still has doubts, feel free to challenge Mr. Rhys and test your skills,” Nathaniel said with a grin.

The moment he spoke, everyone glanced uneasily at one another. If even Bryce had been defeated so effortlessly, what chance did the rest of them stand?

The difference in strength was too great. Challenging Dustin now seemed less like training and more like volunteering for a beating.

“I’ll do it!”

Just then, Lycas stood up, eager for a chance to prove himself. As the team’s commanding officer, his strength was unquestionable—far beyond even Bryce’s.

With Bryce defeated, Lycas felt it was his duty—whether to learn or to uphold his team’s pride—to step forward.

“It’s rare to encounter someone of your level, Mr. Rhys. It would be an honor to learn from you,” Lycas said, saluting as he approached.

Not only was he physically larger and stronger than Bryce, but his cultivation was on another level. He believed that if he gave it his all, he had a fifty-percent chance of victory.

“Logan, looks like I’ll have to trouble you again,” Nathaniel said, flashing a knowing smile.

“No trouble at all,” Dustin replied calmly. “If General Derin is eager for a match, I’m happy to oblige.”

“Since we’ve already had hand-to-hand combat, how about using weapons this time?” Lycas suggested with a grin.

Though proficient in close combat, he was even more skilled with weapons—and was eager to play to his strengths.

“Sure,” Dustin said with a nod.

“Bring me my blade!” Lycas commanded.

Moments later, two elite soldiers approached, carrying a massive broadsword.

Lycas grasped the hilt, spun the sword through the air several times, then slammed its pommel into the ground.

A deep rumble echoed as the ground vibrated faintly from the force.

“Mr. Rhys, the training ground offers a wide range of weapons. Choose whichever you prefer,” Lycas announced.

“I prefer the sword,” Dustin replied.

With a simple gesture, he raised his hand and made a grabbing motion. A longsword from the nearby rack flew into his hand and settled perfectly in his grip. The blade hummed softly as it vibrated.

The weapons in Nathaniel’s mansion were no ordinary arms. Even this longsword, forged from darksteel, could slice through a hair with ease—proof of its exceptional craftsmanship and legacy.

“Mr. Rhys, I look forward to our duel,” Lycas said, taking his stance with the broadsword in one hand.

“Likewise,” Dustin answered. He reversed his grip on the sword and nodded in acknowledgment.

All eyes were fixed on them, the tension in the air thick with anticipation.

On one side stood their commanding general. On the other, a martial arts master invited by Nathaniel. In this contest of blades, it was anyone’s guess who would prevail.