An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Dustin and Grace were just watching the scene unfold when, suddenly, the ponytailed girl turned her focus on them. It took them a moment to shake off the surprise.

“Exactly! Just look at their dishes. Each is a culinary masterpiece. Compare that to what we’ve got on our table-it’s just garbage!”

“I don’t care! Swap our food right now, or we’ll cause a scene!” the group shouted. In the middle of their protest, they angrily tossed the food from their table onto the floor, making a mess.

“I’m afraid our small establishment has a few constraints when it comes to swapping these exquisite dishes,” the waiter explained, wearing a regretful and apologetic expression.

“You can’t swap them? Are you suggesting that we can’t afford it?” Bran frowned.

“Damn! Are you seriously discriminating against us? Do you even know who we are?” the ponytailed girl shouted.1

“We are disciples of the renowned Frostwing Sect. If you piss us off, we might just have to give your inn a bit of a makeover, you know?” she threatened.

“I’m sorry. It looks like there’s a bit of a misunderstanding,” the nervous waiter clarified.1

He continued, “The other guests’ personal chefs prepared those dishes. We provide only the kitchen facilities.”

“What? Personal chefs? Seriously? Who in the world hires a chef while traveling?” The ponytailed girl seemed skeptical.

She knew that those who explored the Deadlands were typically treasure- hunting adventurers. However, bringing a personal chef on such a journey was unheard of.

“It’s true. I witnessed it myself. I wouldn’t lie to you,” the waiter earnestly insisted. Upon hearing this, the Frostwing Sect disciples exchanged glances. They eventually directed their attention toward Dustin and Grace.

dishes prepared by your chef?” The ponytailed girl approached, inspecting their table with a

our chef because

The ponytailed girl scrutinized the dishes on the

Bites, and even Clam Chowder. There’s a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Do you think you guys

of the filet. In an instant, her eyes sparkled, and a look

“This is so tasty!”

noticing Dustin and Grace’s reactions. “Hey Bran,

and Dustin’s feelings, the ponytailed girl rallied her fellow sect

couldn’t resist the temptation. Their delight was immeasurable after traveling a significant

so you guys might want to scout out a different table for your meal,” Bran declared. He casually tossed

eyebrow, shooting them a disdainful look. “Got an issue here? Just barging in without an invite and now

a friendly drink or meal could have been in the cards, and

arrogance and lack of respect just made Dustin see them

your problem? Not satisfied? Okay, let me throw in some more.” Bran flaunted his arrogance,

Dustin casually waved his hand, sending

“Wow, he’s pretty bold!”

“This is unacceptable!”

“Unbelievable!”

sparking some

martial world, they were used to being treated with respect wherever they went. But Dustin showed no consideration

you?” the ponytailed girl snapped, slamming the table

Frostwing Sect, one of the big three sects in the Southwest. Check the whole martial world,

said impassively, and he

claiming this table today. If you’re smart, grab those gold bars and scoot,