“Gentlemen, please stop arguing for now and calm down!” Dustin quickly intervened when he sensed the situation getting out of control. Otherwise, if they continued bickering, they might start fighting physically.
“Dustin, it’s time to make a choice. Are you going with the Fallons or the Ballards?” Griffin asked.
“Young man, think about it carefully. Don’t make a decision you will regret.” Simon added, stroking his beard.
For a moment, all eyes were fixed on Dustin. It was a rare sight to witness two influential figures vying for an individual. While it was an immense honor, it also caused a tremendous dilemma.
The Fallons were a family with a strong military background. They were an ideal fit for Dustin, given his status as a grandmaster. In terms of his future, the Fallons were undoubtedly the better choice.
However, as one of the ancient houses, the Ballards were as strong as the Fallons. When combined with Natasha’s influence, their proposition became even more persuasive.
Most importantly, selecting one side would inevitably upset the other. Both opportunities carried their own risks.
“I genuinely appreciate both of your generous offers. But I reiterate my stance. I’m not interested in joining any affiliation, so I can only apologize, “Dustin declined once more.
“What?” The crowd exchanged glances, looking baffled. Dustin had been presented with the chance of a lifetime by both families!
However, he opted to decline them both. The crowd couldn’t help but think he was foolish.
“Dustin, this is a rare opportunity. Are you sure you are going to pass it up?” Griffin asked in shock.
“I’m sure.” Dustin nodded. “Young man, do you realize that many people try their hardest to join the ancient houses but are brushed aside?
“You have two promising paths in front of you right now. Are you not going to walk on either of them?” Simon was puzzled.
“I have my own path to follow,” Dustin replied.
“Impressive, you’ve got ambition.” Simon nodded as he smiled.
“Alright, I won’t force you if you’re not willing. If you get into trouble in the future, feel free to come to me.” Simon had looked down on Dustin initially, but his refusal had earned his respect.
Men should carve out their own paths. Relying on others could easily cloud someone’s ambitions and aspirations.
“Thank you, My Lord.” Dustin nodded to express his gratitude.
“Dustin, I respect your decision. Of course, you’re always welcome to visit me if you change your mind. My doors are always open.” Griffin smiled faintly.
“Thank you, Sir Fallon.” Dustin nodded again.
“My Lord, I have other matters to attend to. I’ll be taking my leave now.’ Griffin shook Simon’s hand before turning around to leave.
Although he didn’t succeed in recruiting Dustin, he took solace in the fact that Dustin didn’t join the Ballards either.
That meant that the Fallons still had a chance to win Dustin over. After all, building a friendly relationship with a talent like Dustin posed numerous advantages without drawbacks.
“Sweetheart, I won’t play the third wheel any longer, either. Enjoy your time with him.” Simon left after saying his goodbyes. With his granddaughter around, Dustin wouldn’t be going anywhere.
“Dear, let’s go and have something to eat.” Natasha smiled sweetly. With her arms still linked with Dustin, they walked out of Celestial Dojo.
Today’s duel had helped Dustin make a name for himself. He defeated many of the Fallon family’s top talents and won the approval of Natasha’s grandfather.
He truly managed to kill two birds with one stone!
