An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2525

Chapter 2525

The next morning, in a luxurious mansion—

Nathaniel was in his study, flipping through a book, when a spy hurried in and reported quietly, “Your Highness, a new dragon source aura has been discovered.”

“Oh?”

Nathaniel raised his eyebrows, closed the book, and asked, “Where is it?”

“According to our intel, Dustin Rhys has it.”

“Dustin Rhys?” Nathaniel narrowed his eyes slightly, surprised.

He had spent a great deal trying to win Dustin over in the past, but there had been no response.

Later, he heard that both Tristan and Matthias had attempted the same thing.

The only consolation was that Dustin hadn’t taken anyone’s side yet.It looked like he was still waiting for the best offer, which meant there was still a chance.

Now that Dustin possessed a Dracan essence, he was even more valuable—and worth pursuing.

Even setting aside the West Lucozia Palace, Dustin’s status as a martial arts grandmaster alone made him a powerful ally.

If they could recruit him, it would be like adding wings to a tiger.

“Where is Dustin now?” Nathaniel asked.

“Our investigation shows he’s staying at Jingtian Hotel,” the confidant replied.

“Go there immediately and make sure to invite him back,” Nathaniel ordered.

“Yes, Your Highness.”

Just as the confidant was about to leave, Nathaniel called out, “One more thing—make sure to ask him. Be respectful.”

“I understand.” The confidant bowed and left.

At noon, a luxury car pulled up to the mansion’s entrance.

Dustin stepped out and was led inside by Nathaniel’s personal guards.

The mansion was understated yet elegant, with tight security. On the surface, everything looked normal—but it was clearly full of secrets.

As Dustin walked in, he discreetly scanned his surroundings, memorizing every detail.

Grace had already provided him with the architectural layout of Nathaniel’s mansion, but he wanted to double-check in person.

So far, the layout matched the blueprints.

The only concern was the number of hidden guards Nathaniel had placed throughout the estate.

As Dustin stepped inside, he sensed more than a dozen eyes watching him.

It was clear—there was no moving freely in this mansion without a guide.

And with Nathaniel’s resources, there were surely experts stationed here. Any slip-up could blow his cover.

With these thoughts in mind, Dustin followed the guards, passed through a rock garden, and arrived at the reception room.

Nathaniel was already waiting at the door. The moment he saw Dustin, he walked out with a beaming smile.

“Brother Rhys! It’s been too long—I’ve missed you!”

“Hurry, hurry—please come in!”

Nathaniel greeted him warmly, took Dustin’s hand, and led him into the room. He had him sit right beside him and called out, “Someone bring tea!”

Soon, a few elegant maids entered with tea and refreshments.

“Brother Rhys, this tea is a rare treasure I’ve collected. Please try it.” Nathaniel gestured for him to drink.

Dustin nodded, lifted the teacup, took a sip, and commented, “It’s sweet at first, with a lingering aroma and long aftertaste. Excellent tea.”

“Hahaha! Brother Rhys, you have great taste!” Nathaniel laughed and gave him a thumbs-up. “I always serve this when I have honored guests. If you like it, I’ll send you some to take home.”

“Your Highness, I appreciate your generosity—I won’t refuse,” Dustin replied with a smile.

Now that he was here, he had to accept something—just enough to avoid raising suspicion.

“We’re all brothers here. No need to be so formal. If you ever need anything, just say the word—I’ve got your back,” Nathaniel said cheerfully.

“Thank you, Your Highness.” Dustin gave a polite bow, then cut to the chase. “But I doubt you called me here just for a chat. If there’s something you want to say, please go ahead.”

“Hahaha… Nothing escapes you,” Nathaniel chuckled, then got to the point. “Brother Rhys, I heard you have a Dracan essence. Is that true?”

“Oh? Where did Your Highness hear that?” Dustin replied casually, without giving a direct answer.

He knew better than to confirm it outright. Nathaniel was a cautious man. Being too direct would only make him more suspicious.

“To be honest, I’ve been searching for Dracan essences for some time now, and I’ve spent a lot of money doing it. I keep close tabs on any related news—nothing escapes my ears,” Nathaniel said with a smile.

“I see…” Dustin nodded thoughtfully.

In reality, he was amused. After spending so much money, Nathaniel was still outclassed by Grace’s intelligence network.

Clearly, his information channels had major gaps.

“Brother Rhys, I understand your caution. But don’t worry—I won’t let your efforts go unrewarded. If you’re willing to hand the Dracan essence over to me, I’ll make sure you’re well compensated.” Nathaniel’s tone was sincere, but his eyes glinted with calculation.

To him, Dustin’s hesitation was just a negotiation tactic—he was waiting for a better offer.

Nathaniel wasn’t worried. He had wealth, power, and beauty at his disposal.Whatever Dustin wanted—he could provide it.