An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Aldric's gaze flickered from his blade, embedded in the sodden earth, to Dustin's calm form.

Suddenly, a wave of defeat washed over him. He had nurtured lofty ambitions of shining brightly, of making a mark at the Sacred Wrym Summit Combat Tournament. And now, it struck him hard that he had overestimated his abilities.

He understood that many others surpassed him in skill in this vast world. Despite his earnest endeavors, his modest talents and inflated ego proved futile.

The current outcome embodied this harsh truth. Despite pouring his heart into it, he couldn't land a single strike on Dustin, who effortlessly outmatched him.

This sobering realization left him struggling for composure, lost in the whirlpool of his emotions.

After a brief silence, Aldric relented, "Okay, you win. I admit defeat." He struggled to speak, the weight of his admission evident in his voice.

Dustin responded calmly, "Your skills are impressive. Among your peers, you're certainly exceptional."

Aldric had just showcased the prowess of a grandmaster martial artist, a remarkable achievement considering his age. It spoke volumes of his cultivation skill. Yet, it was clear that he and Dustin were not evenly matched.

outcome with grace. But remember that I'll return to challenge

He was determined to train harder and surpass Dustin as

but you can't deny his skills. The way he handled that blade gives me chills," Ruby confessed, still feeling

his prowess. In

undoubtedly has talent, but, unfortunately, he encountered Dustin. Despite his abilities,

he lost

Aldric was talented, then Dustin was on another level entirely. Whatever he tried, Dustin effortlessly countered. They

was hiding his true identity. With his talent, he

what's gotten into you? You just shared dinner, but now you're talking like Dustin's biggest fans," Ruby remarked with

acknowledged Dustin's strength, her previous clashes with

Crystal asserted. "We must acknowledge and honor the

someone as gifted as Dustin is like stumbling upon a gem. With his talent, he's sure to shine at the tournament. We're lucky to have crossed paths with him. We