An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

"Speaking of which, those disciples from the Esoteric Sword Sect are really worth paying attention to," Miles mused.

He rubbed his chin and looked at the three figures in black robes. "Their sword mastery technique is both mysterious and powerful.

"Beheading enemies from miles away is child's play for them. And challenging opponents above their level? That's just routine.

"If only I could learn their technique, I reckon I could make a name for myself in the martial world."

Crystal chimed in, "The sword mastery technique is their best-kept secret. It was never shared outside their sect. Our elder once tried to exchange it with three of our top secrets, but they refused."

She sighed and shook her head.

The Sword Union was unwaveringly dedicated to anything sword-related.

Whether it was renowned blades, ancient sword manuals, intricate techniques, or swordsmanship principles, they would spare no expense in obtaining them.

"I happen to know a thing or two about sword mastery techniques," Dustin suddenly interjected.

"Huh?" Miles blinked in surprise, his face showing disbelief. "Dustin, are you serious? You're skilled in sword mastery techniques?"

"I'm not skilled, just familiar with the basics." Dustin smiled faintly.

Growing up surrounded by the vast collection of ancient books in West Lucozia Castle's library, he had developed a deep love for reading.

With an uncanny ability to remember every word he read, each page became imprinted in his mind.

His childhood dedication to swordplay further fueled his passion for knowledge, leading him to delve into the depths of swordsmanship.

Therefore, it was only natural that he had acquired some understanding of sword mastery techniques along the way.

is a legendary secret skill. Even having

you have the time, could you share some of your insights with us?

reward you generously if you could pass on some of those secrets to the

golden opportunity for recognition. They were certain that mastering those sword techniques would bring significant rewards

smiled warmly. "No need for rewards. If you're interested, I'll share

sipped his drink before continuing, "Actually, there's more than one approach to

you

and Crystal exchanged

the contrary, Dalen appeared lost in thought as he unfolded his

is about cultivating your

must feed your essence to it daily and keep refining it. This will purify the impurities in

process, no shortcuts. It

least ten years of diligent work to cultivate the sword core into a spirit sword

there's no room for slacking, laziness, or mistakes. Otherwise, all previous efforts

can the wielder truly

hard work is just the foundation for learning the technique. There's still a

his explanation, Dustin casually took another sip

Ten years just for the foundation? That sounds incredibly tough." Ruby sighed, feeling

that, any interest she

ten years was too daunting.

impossible to learn without natural talent and perseverance."

and had even given them a shot for a while. But life got in the way, and he

effects in combat, it didn't qualify as mastering

it. I'm not cut out for this. I'll just stick to being lazy." Ruby stretched out her arms in

in the martial world. Turns out the learning curve is sky-high. At our