An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Under the night sky of Sacred Wrym Summit, Abigail, well-heeled and in high spirits, had booked the second floor of Heighten Tavern for a celebratory feast.

The attendees were Dustin and his companions.

After all, making a fortune through unscrupulous means wasn't that honorable. So, it was crucial to keep a low profile.

"Sir, I'm in a great mood today. We're not leaving until we're all plastered!" Abigail poured the wine and clinked glasses with Dustin before downing it in one gulp.

He smiled in response and took a sip.

"Come on, everyone. Dig in and enjoy! Don't be shy about it." She warmly encouraged Crystal and the others after downing her drink.

Dalen smiled and asked, "Ms. Robinson, that smile of yours tells a story. I bet today was a profitable day, right?"

"Just a small haul and nothing too extravagant," she replied modestly.

"Ms. Robinson, it seems luck is always on your side. You always manage to turn the tide at the critical moment," Crystal remarked. Her tone seemed to suggest something.

"Luck has nothing to do with it. It's all about my ability to turn the tide with my smarts." Abigail tapped her temple with her finger.

She continued, "I've strategically positioned several elites among the Group C contestants. Whenever they take the stage, I have complete control over the outcome. I determine the winners and losers, which gives me an unbeatable edge."

Crystal was taken aback upon hearing that. She had noticed a few clues throughout the day but wasn't sure about her assumptions.

However, she never anticipated Abigail's blunt admission. It even led her to question if she had misheard.

Ruby exchanged incredulous glances

losing in the bet depended solely on intuition

you telling us you manipulated today's

manipulate the outcome. Even so, it's enough for me to gain the upper hand," Abigail

deceiving us?" Ruby

all, she was also one of the

said, "Deceiving? I don't see it that way. I'm just using my smarts to make some money. What's

those gamblers weren't so greedy,

haul of celestial stones. You would've

"You—"

but Crystal interjected, "Ms. Robinson is right. Being too greedy never ends

know when to stop, you won't lose everything. Today, Ms. Robinson has taught you both

it's Crystal who'd understand," Abigail remarked with

upfront because you're Sir's friends. Otherwise,

Ruby exchanged a glance of resignation. Despite their annoyance, they knew they had

to detect the deception and yielding to greed. Perhaps the result could have been different if

asked, "Oh, by the way, are you Group B contestants?" "Yes. Why?"

just so happens I could use your help," she

placed them on the table. "I'll be running

pitch in, I'll reward you generously. These celestial stones are the down payment. Once everything's

"Um..."