Chapter 66

Dustin had no interest in wealth or riches, but he urgently needed rare herbs. The old drunkard's condition worsened daily; he might not survive the year. Dustin needed five types of rare herbs to treat him.

"I'm extremely fussy about herbs," Dustin said. "Your collection may not be useful to me."

"I can get you any herb you need!" Duane immediately assured him.

"Do you have Gozoraberry?" Dustin asked.

"Uh no," Duane shook his head.

"Flower of Crimson Gem?"

"I don't have that either."

"What about Cherusia?"

"Rhys, I've never even heard of these herbs!" Duane's expression soured.

"How about aged Panax root and ancient Heliotrope? I'm sure you've heard of those," Dustin's eyes narrowed.

"Yes, I have! I know those herbs!" Duane nodded. Those two herbs cost a king's ransom, but at least he'd heard of them.

"And do you have them?" Dustin asked.

"I'm not sure about the ancient Heliotrope, but I can get you the aged Panax root. It'll take a few days," Duane replied.

"Fine. Come back when you have it," Dustin said, waving his hand.

"Oh, come on, Rhys! My chest aches terribly! I can't stand it anymore! Please help me first! I promise I'll send the Panax root in a few days!" Duane lost his composure.

Dustin remained silent, turning to Natasha. He didn't trust Duane. What if he reneged after Dustin cured him?

"Natasha, please persuade him. You know I never break my word," Duane pleaded.

"Of course, Uncle Duane. I know you keep your promises. But I think we can do better than just the Panax root," Natasha countered.

"What else do you need? I'll try my best to get it," Duane quickly understood. Natasha was clearly trying to increase the price now that they held the advantage, but he was in no position to bargain.

"Uncle Duane, I heard you own several properties in Swinton. Hillview Hotel, especially, is doing exceptionally well. Why don't you give it to Dustin as a gift?" A subtle smile played on Natasha's lips.

"What?" Duane's lips twitched. Hillview Hotel was his cash cow! Selling it would easily fetch a billion dollars! This woman was demanding a fortune!

"Are you unwilling to part with it?" Natasha raised an eyebrow.

"Of course not! As long as Rhys saves me, a hotel means nothing to me!" Duane forced a smile. He had no choice but to comply.

"Dustin, seeing how Uncle Duane is being so nice, why don't you help him this time?" Natasha winked at Dustin.

"Alright, then," Dustin nodded. He produced a black pill and tossed it to Duane. "You'll be fine after eating this."

"What's this?" The pill looked suspiciously like a turd. Duane frowned. Had he lost nearly a billion dollars for this?

"If you don't believe me, you can choose not to eat it," Dustin said, offering no pressure.

"Of course I do!" Steeling himself, Duane swallowed the pill. He had to see if it worked.

The pill dissolved quickly, and a warm feeling spread through Duane's body. As the warmth spread, the chest pain dissipated. Within minutes, the agonizing pain vanished completely.

"It actually worked?" Duane was pleasantly surprised.

He patted himself down to ensure he was alright, then breathed a sigh of relief.