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.”

her, Azalea’s safety was more important than winning. While she hoped Azalea would make it to the top eight, it wouldn’t have been a huge

six and contestant

“Finally, it’s my turn!”

green flashed into the air. After hovering for

at such

was that? Was that Spectral Sprint

idea. It happened so fast I couldn’t

the distance between steps and allows them to flicker

spectators buzzed with

talents and extraordinary techniques. The outcome of

center of the battle ring. His hair flowed despite the still air, and

to keep you waiting.” A booming

with an almost otherworldly beauty, leaped into the air. He crossed 300 feet in a few light steps and landed on

With a folding fan in hand, he courteously saluted

gasps of admiration from many female spectators. Although he

on the Beauty Ranking, couldn’t help but be amazed. She had never seen a man with such breathtaking beauty. If he were

The man in green gave Dalen a once- over with noticeable disdain. Though his looks

I know your name?” Dalen

guide. My name is Leigh. Jude

you’re Jude Leigh, ranked tenth on the Legendary List. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Dalen quickly realized

Jude had fought earlier but had finished the match quickly without revealing his identity. Dalen thought he was probably trying to keep a