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.

She was determined to perform at her best. Her goals were to

he looked at Azalea approaching the battle ring.

had anticipated facing a formidable opponent from the Legendary List, not an unknown woman. To him, defeating her didn’t seem

the

spectators in the stand perked up,

the tournament were captivating in their own right, but Azalea was particularly striking.

don’t want to fight a woman. Just surrender,” Kendricks said flatly. His gaze was cold and

women were insignificant compared to his saber. He would rather spend his time perfecting his sword technique

such a gentleman. But since I’m already here, I can’t just surrender. My mentor would never let me live it down. Please go easy on me.” Azalea cast him a delicate, almost

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

misunderstood. If you’re set on fighting me, I’ll just have to endure it.” She shook her head, and her downcast eyes made her look

but the male spectators were spellbound. Their hearts softened at Azalea’s seemingly vulnerable

without hesitation if they were in Kendricks’ shoes. Who could bring themselves to harm such a fragile beauty? After all, letting her win would be the perfect

now,” Oron announced once both contestants were

begin?” Azalea asked politely. Her calm demeanor didn’t signal she was hurrying

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