An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

"Abigail? Are you for real?" Dustin raised his eyebrows in disbelief.

Since discovering her hidden abilities, she had become bolder than usual. He thought he was ready for anything, but her boldness surprised him.

On the day of the Combat Tournament, she suggested poisoning all the skilled disciples from different sects.

Dustin felt uneasy about taking such a risky step. He came to understand that Abigail's way of thinking was beyond conventional norms.

She exclaimed proudly, "Of course, I'm serious! With us poisoning those formidable opponents, winning the championship will be a breeze, don't you think? I feel like a genius for coming up with this brilliant plan!"

Dustin fell silent while Dalen and the others tensed up. They felt like they were treading on thin ice.

Abigail was loud and caught all the nearby martial artists' attention.

Everyone cast wary glances in their direction, and some even started to reach for their weapons.

If Abigail continued to speak boldly, Dustin and the others would soon be considered enemies in the martial world.

It became evident why disciples of the Mystic Arts Order were so despised. Their frequent tactic of using poison made it difficult for them to be accepted.

"Abigail, abandon this idea. The tournament should be about fairness and skill, not underhanded tactics," Dustin stated earnestly.

He intentionally raised his voice to help ease the tension among the martial artists nearby.

"Sir, are you doubting my plan?" She tilted her head to look at him.

but I'm concerned about

heard you. If things go wrong, we'll all be

anyone challenges us, we'll poison them!"

those who looked back at her seemed shaken, as if

gentler approach might be better for you, especially if you're thinking about settling down." Dustin redirected the

Men are the worst! She quickly changed the topic and smiled. "Except for

little rascal!" Dustin shook his

and Miles exchanged looks and grinned wryly. After all, Abigail's

venomous curses are legendary. Can you show it to me?"

of venomous curses. Which one

realized who she was, but Ruby appeared

but I want something unique," Ruby replied

an eyebrow and smiled. "Alright, I'll show it to you. But I

as for the other volunteers..." Ruby glanced at

was caught off guard and wondered

a chance to try something new. Help satisfy my curiosity,"

it... safe?" His eyes darted

Order's curses could be. What

to gamble with his

die," Abigail reassured, though her

out now, are you?" Ruby quickly resorted to psychological coercion when

just helping out, right? Let's do this. Let's go. If

man, he couldn't afford to