An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Hmph! You got lucky this time.” Kendricks glared at Azalea, then sheathed his Demonblade and left the battle ring.

Even though he won, there was no thrill in it. He didn’t feel proud about winning against a vulnerable woman when she had managed to injure him.

Since his rise to fame, he had never felt so embarrassed. The Divine Talismans had played a part, but he couldn’t deny being outmatched and humiliated.

The missed chance to retaliate only deepened his frustration. Kendricks vowed he wouldn’t show the Mystic Arts Order disciples mercy if he faced them again.

“Contestant number five is the winner in this match,” Oron announced.

The spectators reacted with warm applause.

Azalea’s stunning performance and Kendricks’s formidable strength were worthy of praise. Most previous matches had been brutal, where a single misstep could cost a contestant their life.

It was rare to see someone as wise as her, who knew when she was outmatched and chose to surrender immediately. Her quick thinking had saved her life.

“Grand Sorceress, I’m sorry for disappointing you by not winning the match.” After returning to her seat, Azalea acknowledged her mistake.

“What’s important is that you’re safe. Winning or losing doesn’t matter,” Abigail replied with a smile.

She continued, “Kendricks is ranked eighth on the Legendary List, so it’s natural that you couldn’t defeat him.

“I was actually worried you might impulsively push through to the end, which would have been unwise. Besides, you performed admirably and injured him, so it’s not a total loss.”

hoped Azalea would make it to the top eight, it wouldn’t have been a huge concern if she hadn’t. After

to begin. Please welcome contestant number six and contestant number 11 to the

“Finally, it’s my turn!”

into the air.

in astonishment at such a

the hell was that? Was that Spectral

idea. It happened so fast I

technique that lets the user shorten the distance between steps

spectators buzzed with

talents and extraordinary techniques. The outcome of each match remained uncertain until the

the center of the battle ring. His hair flowed despite the still air, and his robes fluttered, which gave

to keep you waiting.” A

almost otherworldly beauty, leaped into the air. He crossed 300 feet in a few light steps

Shade, a disciple of the Shadow Citadel.” With a folding fan

looks elicited gasps of admiration from many female spectators. Although he might not have been the strongest contestant, his charm certainly made

had never seen a man with such breathtaking beauty. If he were a

you.” The man in green gave Dalen a once- over with noticeable disdain. Though his looks were nothing to scoff at, he felt utterly overshadowed next

know your name?”

unaffiliated with any guide. My name is Leigh. Jude Leigh,” the man in green

Legendary List. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Dalen quickly realized his

earlier but had finished the match quickly without revealing his identity. Dalen thought