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

the night swiftly progressed to morning, the atmosphere at Sacred Wrym

early hour, the venue buzzed with anticipation as crowds filled

profits, Abigail invested a significant sum to secure a prime spot. She had set up ten gambling tables to accommodate

match outcomes to timing and fighting styles, the

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

day, Abigail appeared resolute to

spectators, including elite members from various major sects, gathering at

untold wealth. She

Summit had turned a blind eye to the

the perfect environment to make a profit. Thus,

Abigail busied herself with her schemes in

than joining the crowd at Sacred Wrym Summit,

under his door that morning. The letter's

request without much

emblem of the Hall of

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

in Swinton, where they had even deployed the Four

of Gods persisted in their clandestine machinations. But their sudden appearance near Sacred Wrym

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

in the letter, he arrived at a private