An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

The news of winning celestial stones sent a wave of excitement through the crowd of martial artists. If they were only mildly interested before, now they were practically buzzing with anticipation.

After all, chances to win celestial stones were as rare as finding a four-leaf clover. Plus, the chance to double their earnings was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

There was no way they would let this opportunity slip through their fingers.

Furthermore, any lingering doubts disappeared when they saw Dustin and the others win the celestial stones. So, some of the more daring martial artists started to step forward when Abigail beckoned.

Despite the Mystic Arts Order's less-than-stellar reputation, the irresistible allure of celestial stones outweighed any reservations. They were ready to take the risk.

After all, they were at the Sacred Wrym Summit. Hence, they wondered if anyone from the Mystic Arts Order would be bold enough to stir up trouble over the payout.

"Can we place the bet?"

Two young men in their twenties who closely resembled each other were the first to step forward. They appeared to be brothers.

They weren't participants in the competition. Instead, they were spectators to enjoy the fight.

They couldn't resist trying it since encountering such an enticing betting opportunity.

"Sure." Abigail nodded with a smile. "Anyone interested can join the betting, but I'm curious about the items you will wager. By the way, I don't accept just any ordinary items."

The two men exchanged glances before reaching into their pockets. They each pulled out a fist-sized iron orb.

The iron orbs were completely black and appeared plain at first glance. However, those with keen eyes would notice something unique.

The surface of the orbs was riddled with countless tiny holes resembling pinpricks. These holes were densely packed and covered every inch of the iron orbs' surface.

they?"

crafted hidden weapons, the Phantom

appearance. Once you press the switch and toss them out, the 888 poisoned needles concealed inside this iron orb will erupt with formidable force

all!" the man on the right added, "The poisoned needles from these orbs can pierce through energy armor. So, any martial artist below the

Blooms?" Abigail raised an eyebrow and smiled. "Sounds like quite the

their expertise

one of their eight renowned hidden weapons. Its fame spread throughout the

can our Phantom Blooms fetch?" the two men

all. Once used, they're gone. How about one

Both men grinned

like these in

celestial stones were scarce, and the brothers desperately needed them. After all, refusing the

to win another round, those six stones would double to

one of

is the Alchem Sect's Divinix. Pop one of these tablets, and you'll see a major boost in strength in no time. How many celestial stones is

placed a bottle of tablets on the table

a solid item. How about

The

for ordinary martial artists to come by. However, it wasn't a

four celestial stones in exchange was

Sword from the Sacred Armory Order. Sharper and tougher than the average darksteel blade—it's a true

It turns you into a

our specialty, the Dusk Giltfish. It's mouth-wateringly delicious and replenishes your life force and vitality upon consumption—a

leading the way, many martial artists gathered around. They