“Exactly! Cinna took one misstep, and this is where it led him. His choices ultimately sealed his fate. Unlike someone in this room who still has a shot at redemption,” Austin remarked, casting a meaningful glance in Julius’ direction.
Rufus actively discouraged killing their own kin, and Julius was Austin’s uncle. Without these circumstances, the consequences of Julius’ rebellion would have been severe, even without significant losses.
Not even Julius’ death would have sufficed to alleviate the gravity of his actions.
Julius cleared his throat, sensing the intensity of Austin’s stare. Then, he quickly changed the subject. “Logan, these three treasuries are incredibly valuable with high stakes. So, how do you plan to deal with it?”
“Of course, we’re bringing everything back to West Lucozia. Did you think we’d just leave it for anyone to grab?” Austin said, rolling his eyes.
“We shouldn’t hog all three treasuries, “Dustin said, shaking his head.
He continued, “Taking down the Dragon Guard wasn’t just our doing. We had some outside help this time, and the benefits should be shared among everyone.”
“Shared? Logan, seriously?” Julius exclaimed, a mix of surprise and excitement in his voice.
He added, “You’ve heard what Cinna said earlier, right? The Dragon Guard’s vaults hold decades’ worth of treasures, enough to sustain a nation. This is an incredible opportunity, and you’re considering sharing it? Just what are you thinking?”
This time, wiping out the Dragon Guard was a remarkable accomplishment for Julius. It might even score him some extra commendations.
The more treasures West Lucozia acquired, the more perks he’d get. Of course, he wasn’t about to let go of that opportunity.
“While the treasures are enticing, upholding our principle is more important,” Dustin said calmly. “They came all the way to assist us. If we hoard the treasures, won’t we seem ungrateful?”
“Yeah, I understand, but do we have to share everything with them? Maybe just throw them a few token benefits,” Julius proposed.
“I’ve made up my mind. If you have any concerns, Uncle Julius, you can pass them on to Rufus and see how he deals with it,” Dustin stated impassively.
“You-” Julius’s face stiffened. He had never encountered someone so naive as to part with hard-earned riches.
“Uncle Julius, we shouldn’t judge others by our own standards. Logan’s way of thinking is unique. It’s not comparable to the usual mindset,” Austin said, fully backing Dustin’s decision despite having some reservations.
“Let’s go.” Dustin, not wanting to delve into the conversation any longer, simply closed the wooden box and gestured for Austin and the rest to follow him.
To him, gold, silver, and jewels held no value-they were merely material possessions. He believed the path ahead would only become more challenging if even friendships could be betrayed.
Back outside, Dustin took out two treasure maps, handing one to Adam and another to Grace.
“What’s the meaning of this, buddy?” Adam looked puzzled, examining the treasure map.
“The Dragon Guard has three treasuries, and each treasure corresponds to one treasure map. Since there are three of us, we each get our hands on one of those treasuries,” Dustin explained.
“Seriously? You’re just handing out treasures like it’s no big deal?” Adam’s eyes widened in disbelief.
“Without your help in taking down the Dragon Guard, things wouldn’t have gone as smoothly as they did,” Dustin said.
“Well, okay. I’ll gladly accept your generous offer.” Adam didn’t hesitate and tucked the treasure map away.
Grace glanced at the treasure map before handing it back to Dustin. “I don’t need this thing. You can keep it.”
Dustin replied, “Don’t get me wrong here. I’m not handing this over to you.”
He smiled and added, “I’m planning to present it to the royal family as a gesture of goodwill, hoping to receive their continual support.”
He was adamant about offering the treasure map to Grace.
Grace hesitated. “This-”
“Your Royal Highness, it’s a gesture of goodwill from Dustin. Don’t be shy,” Adam reassured.
He added, “We’re looking forward to working together in the future, so there will be plenty of chances for collaboration.”
“Okay, I express gratitude on behalf of my father.” Grace nodded and accepted the treasure map.