An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

The saber hit the ground before its owner even appeared. Its edge gleamed with a fierce, intimidating light.

“This saber looks so familiar. I think I’ve seen it before.”

“If I’m not mistaken, that’s the Inferno Saber of the Bloodfire Legion leader.”

“The leader of the Bloodfire Legion? Even someone like him is competing in the tournament? Isn’t he too old for this?”

“From what I know, the Bloodfire Legion leader has passed the Inferno Saber to his most prized disciple, Kendricks Lang, who is ranked eighth on the Legendary List.”

Amid the murmurs, a dark figure suddenly shot into the air. He landed on the battle ring just as the golden saber crashed down with a thunderous boom.

The figure was a man dressed in black with a cold and formidable presence. He appeared to be in his 30s, tall and upright, with a piercing gaze. A black, broken sword was slung across his back, which added to his unapproachable demeanor.

He was Kendricks Lang, ranked eighth on the Legendary List. Though many had never seen him in person, he was widely recognized. His extraordinary skills and blade mastery had earned him a stellar reputation, and he had remained undefeated since his rise to fame.

“Such bad luck. I can’t believe I have to face this guy,” Azalea murmured as she looked at her numbered ball. With a resigned sigh, she rose from her seat and walked toward the battle ring.

Despite the treasures Abigail had given her, Azalea still felt uncertain. While those items might be effective against ordinary grandmasters, their usefulness against great legends like Kendricks was questionable.

her opponent, she wouldn’t give up easily. She was determined to perform at her best. Her goals were to avoid disappointing Abigail and to uphold the honor

at Azalea approaching the battle ring. “How

List, not an unknown

Mystic Arts Order,” Azalea introduced as she stepped onto the ring. With a gentle smile and a polite nod, her elegance

the stand perked up, and their

in their own right, but Azalea was particularly striking. There

a woman. Just surrender,”

were insignificant compared to his saber. He would rather spend his time

let me live it down. Please go easy on me.” Azalea cast him a delicate, almost pitiful look. She was trying

don’t expect me to hold back.” While he wasn’t eager

me, I’ll just have to endure it.” She shook her head, and her downcast eyes made

spellbound. Their hearts softened at Azalea’s

such a fragile beauty? After all, letting her win would be the perfect way

fifth match starts now,” Oron announced once

asked politely. Her calm demeanor didn’t signal she was hurrying

won’t hold back.” Kendricks didn’t hesitate. With a swift motion, he reached out, and the golden saber embedded in