An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

"I..."

Abigail's words left Ruby speechless, and she blushed. Ruby suddenly realized she was too naive.

Grudges and alliances often defied reason in the martial world—either kill or be killed.

If Luke intended to kill Abigail, then it was only natural for her to defend herself by retaliating against him. Her actions were justified.

Furthermore, as Abigail pointed out, those who acted solely for profit were hardly virtuous. Therefore, it was not worthwhile to advocate for justice on their behalf.

"Ruby, judging by your demeanor, you're likely new to the martial world," Abigail began. "Holding onto your good intentions is commendable, but you must choose your allies wisely. Blindly playing the role of a saint will only bring harm to yourself and others."

She offered a knowing smile. "Let's let bygones be bygones. There's no need to let tension brew between us over strangers' affairs. Come, let's continue with our drinks."

Then, she lifted her glass and nodded toward Ruby.

Ruby hesitated briefly before raising her glass and downing its contents.

As the tension dissipated after the brief commotion, the atmosphere in the tavern returned to its former merriment as if nothing had happened. Laughter and chatter resumed, accompanied by the clinking of glasses.

Meanwhile, members of the Mystic Arts Order swiftly cleaned up the aftermath outside the tavern.

With the streets littered with bodies and blood, they worked diligently to erase any traces of the night's violence. Even if their actions were in self-defense, they had to ensure no lingering consequences.

and ensuring their gambling activities could continue uninterrupted was

swiftly progressed to morning, the

crowds filled every available space. They were eagerly awaiting the start of

spot. She had set up ten gambling tables to accommodate

an extensive range of wagers available, covering everything from match outcomes to timing and fighting styles, the variety offered was

she had arranged for crates of celestial stones to be delivered overnight from the Mystic

on the previous day, Abigail appeared resolute to leave

members from various major sects, gathering at

untold

eye to the gambling activities as long as they didn't disrupt

perfect environment to make a

herself with her schemes in

Wrym Summit, he ventured

door that morning. The letter's content was

a request without much thought.

a peculiar mark—a distinct emblem of the Hall

the Hall of Gods had been relentless in their efforts to sow discord and assassinate key figures

to assassinate Rufus in Swinton, where

of Gods persisted in their clandestine machinations.

pondered why the Hall of Gods members sought him out before he had revealed his identity. To uncover the mystery, he reluctantly agreed to the

the instructions in the letter, he