An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Inside the meeting room of Zephyr Lodge, Dustin poured tea into two cups. He handed one to Cornelius. After taking a sip from the other cup, he broke the silence. “Did you deliver the challenge letter?’”

“Yes,” Cornelius said with a nod.

“Did the alliance respond?” Dustin asked. Cornelius replied, “As far as I know, Ronald is still in seclusion. But, the alliance members are furious after receiving the letter. I believe Ronald would read it.”

“Good, that’s exactly what I wanted.” Dustin smiled faintly. Ray’s death would undoubtedly create chaos within the martial arts alliance. So, Dustin took the opportunity to make another bold move. After all, a confrontation with Ronald was bound to happen.

“Sir Rhys, don’t you think it’s too reckless to challenge Ronald publicly?” Cornelius voiced his concern. He tactfully continued, “Ronald is one of the five ultimate grandmasters of Balerno. His strength is unmatched. Hardly anyone below the grandmaster level can even come close to him. He’s like an immovable mountain.”

There was no doubt that Ronald was the most powerful figure in Balerno. Dustin had amazing abilities and had defeated Augustus. Still, he fell short compared to Ronald.

or ten years, given his talent, Dustin could defeat

out for a while longer before making a move? “Are you doubting my ability

neutral. Then, he continued, “Sir Rhys, you’re in your twenties, while Ronald is in

He went on, “Ronald has the Celestial Pearl. If I give him more time, he’ll eventually break through the grandmaster level. Then it’ll be even harder to deal with

public challenge this time is still pretty risky.”

about it. I wouldn’t have challenged him if I wasn’t confident.. However it turns out, we’ll find out tomorrow,”

“But-”

Dustin raised his hand to stop him. ” That’s enough.

Cornelius nodded reluctantly. “Now go and get some rest. I need to prepare