“You rascal, you’ve been back for a while but never showed yourself. How could I have drawn you out if not through some clever means?” Rufus grumbled.
“Alright, enough of the small talk. We’ll settle the matter of your fake death later. Let’s first address the current issue.” Dustin’s sharp gaze shifted toward Julius.
Rufus’ assassination attempt was the work of the Dragon Guard remnants. After the attempt, Julius swiftly rebelled and sought to seize power. For Dustin, this hinted at a likely connection between Julius and the Dragon Guard.
Whether it was planning the rebellion or colluding with the remnants of the Dragon Guard, both were grave crimes in his eyes.
“Logan Rhys! “After the initial shock, Julius’ expression darkened.
It dawned on him that he had been manipulated. Rufus was undoubtedly aware of Dustin’s presence among them, hence his quick agreement. It was also his way of acknowledging Logan’s strength.
He had to admit that although he hadn’t seen Logan in ten years, Logan hadn’t faded into obscurity.
On the contrary, he had become even more outstanding. He could tell he was extraordinary from how he defeated Elijah earlier.
With skills nearing that of an ultimate grandmaster, Elijah ranked high in West Lucozia. Logan defeating Elijah indicated that his cultivation had reached the level of an ultimate grandmaster.
For Dustin to achieve such mastery at just over 20 years old showcased his terrifying talent.
If Julius didn’t destroy Logan today and allowed him to continue growing unchecked, even if Julius became the Prince of West Lucozia, he would live in constant anxiety.
After all, should an ultimate grandmaster like Logan attempt to assassinate him and fail, escaping would be a trivial matter for them.
“Uncle Julius, it’s been a long time. I trust you’ve been well,” Dustin said with a wry smile.
“Indeed. Ten years have passed in the blink of an eye. I almost couldn’t recognize you,” Julius responded with narrowed eyes, secretly on guard.
“Uncle Julius, let’s stop this. If you repent, considering your seniority, I can plead your case with Rufus on your behalf and spare you from a death sentence,” Dustin said calmly.
“At this point, do you think I can turn back?” Julius slowly unsheathed his sword, his expression unusually cold. It was impossible for him to give up now when he was just a step away from the throne.
Following the rules established earlier, defeating Logan would pave his way to power smoothly. He wouldn’t risk missing such a rare opportunity.
“As long as you’re willing to let go of your obsession, there’s still a chance of redemption,” Dustin remarked.
“It’s not an obsession. It is my lifelong ambition. I’m willing to sacrifice even my life for it!” Julius declared with a determined gaze.
“Is living not worth it? Why must you seek death?” Dustin shook his head.
From the moment Rufus came back alive, Julius had already lost.
Even though the Marshal’s military insignia could command the Black Dragon Army, it couldn’t surpass the authority of the Prince of West Lucozia.
With just a word from Rufus, all of Julius’ previous support would turn against him.
“The final victor remains uncertain until our battle is fought!” Julius declared, raising his sword and aiming it directly at Dustin.
“Logan, I acknowledge your skills, but I have been invincible on the battlefield for many years. I have never experienced defeat.
“I’m afraid you’re still not qualified to vie for the throne against me!”
“Uncle Julius, you might be formidable in leading troops on the battlefield. But in a martial arts duel, you may not necessarily be my equal,” Dustin earnestly responded.
