An Understated Dominance
Chapter 2008 by Marina Vittori

Jackson believed that receiving something for free was a generous offer in itself, and anticipating more seemed ungrateful.

“Let’s hope things stay that way,” Grace responded indifferently.

Sophia’s insatiable greed irked Grace. She understood that some people are never satisfied-the more you give, the more they want.

“Let’s forget about it. If she doesn’t want to, I won’t insist,” Sophia stated, giving a pointed look at Grace.

Shifting her focus to Dustin, who was overseeing the soul elixir, she continued, “As per our previous agreement, I’m entitled to half of the treasures here, including these soul elixirs. I expect my share.”

“Hey, isn’t that a bit much?” Garrett and his friends expressed their displeasure, countering, “You’ve just been tagging along, not contributing or taking any risks. Now you want half? On what grounds?”

“Yeah!” Silva interjected. “If Ms. Linsor takes half, count us in. Speaking of which, do you even have the right to make a claim?”

“Let’s not forget, would you have stumbled upon the treasure without my intel? We had a deal in place before. Are you really going to go back on our agreement?” Sophia narrowed her eyes.

“Plans can change,” Garrett insisted.

He argued, “Even without the information you provided, we might have discovered this through our visions. Frankly, your existence holds no value for us, let alone deserving a share.”

He was firm in his stance despite the sacrifices they made to explore the lake’s hidden treasure. They had endured losses and sacrifices, unwilling to let someone without significant contributions take away most of the spoils.

“Jackson, what do you think about these people burning bridges?” Sophia asked astutely, seeking opinions rather than speaking up herself.

“Well…” Jackson hesitated.

A disciple from the Embersteel Order chimed in, “I agree with Captain Wilder’s point. It’s not fair to keep half the loot to yourself. We should divide it equally among all of us.”

“He’s right! No one should be so greedy. With so much treasure, everyone deserves a fair share. Taking half for yourself? I won’t stand for it!” Another Embersteel Order disciple voiced strong support for equal distribution.

They sided with the Black Scorpion Squad, which wasn’t solely a matter of safeguarding personal interests but also a reflection of Sophia’s character. They had rescued her previously, but she returned it with betrayal.

Out of respect for Jackson, they didn’t make a big fuss, but that didn’t mean they were letting it slide.

Sophia’s frustration morphed into anger as she voiced her discontent. “I can’t believe you guys are actually taking sides with outsiders. We, the Harmony Sect, have always been on good terms with the Embersteel Order. This is outrageous!”

A few disciples from the Embersteel Order sneered. “On good terms? Hmph! If that’s the case, why did you burn bridges before?”

Sophia, momentarily speechless, grasped Jackson’s arm and pleaded, ” Jackson, look at them. They completely disregard me. As their senior, you should educate them properly.”

Jackson intervened, saying, “That’s enough. The previous incident was just an accident and shouldn’t be brought up again.”

He continued, “As for how to divide the treasure, I think we should listen to Ms. Linsor’s opinion. She should make the decision.”

As Jackson spoke, all eyes shifted toward Grace.

“Me?” Grace hesitated, glancing around. She was about to speak when an abrupt, chilling laughter resounded from the tomb’s entrance.

“Save your breath. None of you will be leaving with any treasures from here!”