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.

about the risks involved,"

"Everyone heard you. If things go wrong, we'll all be in hot water. Let's stick to fair play and rely on our

If anyone challenges us, we'll poison them!" Abigail declared

those who looked back at her seemed shaken,

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

No way! Men are the worst! She quickly changed the topic and smiled. "Except for you, that is. You're

rascal!" Dustin shook his head

looks and grinned wryly. After all, Abigail's comment about men had

Arts Order's venomous curses are legendary. Can you show it to

of venomous curses. Which one are you interested in?"

her once they realized

fine, but I want something unique," Ruby replied

"Alright, I'll show it to you. But I need

as for the other volunteers..." Ruby glanced

off guard and wondered how he had

something new.

safe?" His eyes darted

Order's curses could be. What if he ended up

willing to

die," Abigail reassured, though

about to chicken out now, are you?" Ruby quickly resorted to psychological coercion when she noticed his

right? Let's do this. Let's go. If I waver, then I'm

bravery. As a man, he couldn't afford to back down in situations like