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.

concerned about the risks

all be in hot water. Let's stick to fair play and rely on our

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

back at her seemed shaken, as if they had encountered a

the violence. A gentler approach might be better for you, especially if you're thinking about

worst! She quickly changed the topic and smiled. "Except for you, that is. You're the exception, the cream of the

little rascal!" Dustin shook his head and smiled

looks and grinned wryly. After all,

venomous curses are legendary. Can

quite the collection of venomous curses.

avoid her once they realized who she was, but

fine, but I want something unique," Ruby replied

raised an eyebrow and smiled. "Alright, I'll show it to you. But I need a pair of male and

in! And as for the other volunteers..." Ruby

He was caught off guard and wondered how he had

something new. Help satisfy

safe?" His eyes darted

knew how dangerous the Mystic Arts Order's curses could be. What if he ended up being

willing to gamble with his

worry, you won't die," Abigail reassured, though her tone

wisdom. You're not about to chicken out now, are you?" Ruby quickly resorted to

said anything about chickening out? It's just helping out, right? Let's do this. Let's go.

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