An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2368

An Understated Dominance Chapter 2368 – Dustin looked at the poison on the table, hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “Mr. Houle, since you think so highly of me, I can’t disappoint you.”

He picked up the bottle, opened the cap, and drank the poison in one gulp, leaving nothing behind. To make sure Tyson saw clearly, Dustin turned the bottle upside down to show it was empty.

Since his body was immune to all poisons, he didn’t worry about the effects.

“Hahaha… Mr. Rhys, you’re truly bold!” Tyson laughed, impressed.

By drinking the poison, Dustin proved his sincerity in joining the Pantheon. This was how trust was earned—words alone weren’t enough. The Pantheon valued talent, but loyalty was its highest priority. Only those who proved their loyalty were truly trusted and trained.

Even Tyson had taken poison before starting certain missions, to show his loyalty.

“Mr. Houle, I’ve shown my sincerity. What’s next?” Dustin asked.

He had a general idea of the Pantheon’s plans, but he needed to know the specifics so he could prepare. Otherwise, all of this would have been for nothing.

“There’s nothing more for you to do right now,” Tyson replied with a smile. “Just focus on getting stronger and preparing for tomorrow’s competition. With your talent, and with the Pantheon’s strengthening potion, I’m confident you have a great shot at winning the championship. Once you win, I’ll tell you the full plan. Then you’ll understand how powerful the Pantheon really is!”

“Mr. Houle, do you still not trust me?” Dustin frowned, slightly annoyed.

Tyson sighed. “Mr. Rhys, don’t misunderstand. It’s not that I don’t trust you. Even I don’t know the full plan. This mission is personally overseen by Lord God King. He only shares the details right before the action begins. This is to prevent any leaks and to allow flexibility if things change.”

“Oh? It’s that secretive? Not even you know the plan?” Dustin asked, surprised.

“That’s how it’s always been,” Tyson said with a bitter smile.

It might sound extreme, but it was true. Regular members had some freedom, but those in key positions or being trained for leadership were closely watched. They had all the resources they needed, but their personal freedom was restricted.

“Alright, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. If that’s how the Pantheon operates, I won’t push for details. If you need anything, Mr. Houle, you know where to find me.”

Dustin decided not to press further, as it might raise suspicion.

“Good, I’ll take my leave now. I look forward to seeing you perform tomorrow.” Tyson stood, clasped his hands in a respectful gesture, and quickly left.

The restaurant was crowded, and the longer they stayed, the more likely they were to attract unwanted attention. They needed to be cautious until the plan was complete.

Once Tyson was gone, Dustin pocketed the two vials of strengthening potion, then slipped out through the back window, disappearing without a trace.

Ten minutes later, Dustin arrived at a quiet courtyard.

It wasn’t large, but it was elegantly decorated, showing that the owner had refined taste.

Dustin walked to the bedroom door and knocked.

Soon, the door opened to reveal a beautiful woman. Though she wasn’t breathtaking, she had a certain charm. Most striking were her eyes, which sparkled like stars.

It was Grace, in disguise!

“You’re here? Come in,” Grace smiled, gesturing for him to enter.

Few people knew Grace lived here, so she wasn’t surprised when Dustin showed up. She had sensed his presence the moment he arrived.

Dustin walked in and sat on the sofa.

“What would you like to drink?” Grace asked casually.

“Water,” Dustin replied.

Grace grabbed a bottle of water and handed it to him. “Why are you visiting so late? Is something up?”

“Guess,” Dustin said with a grin, keeping the secret for now.

“Guess?” Grace chuckled. “Does it have something to do with the Pantheon? Did they send someone to recruit you?”

“Oh? How did you know?” Dustin raised an eyebrow, surprised.

He hadn’t said a word, yet Grace had guessed it. She really was sharp.

“You were impressive in the ring today. If I were them, I’d want to recruit you too. It’s not surprising,” Grace said with a smile.

“You’re smart. Now, guess what’s in this box?” Dustin placed the box, which Tyson had given him, on the table.

Grace studied it carefully and started to analyze. “If the Pantheon wants to recruit you, they wouldn’t offer something ordinary like gold or jewels. Given the situation, they’d offer something to boost your strength and help you win the championship. And it would be something unique to the Pantheon, something outsiders can’t get. So, I’d guess the box contains strengthening potions, right?”

Dustin was stunned.

How did she figure that out?

It was almost as if she had opened the box herself!