An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Dr. Rhys, good luck.”

As Dustin stepped into the battle ring, Alicia and Aurora cheered behind him. Their enthusiasm quickly drew more spectators to join in. Soon, the venue erupted in thunderous applause, with cheers echoing from every direction.

In his earlier match against Bill, Dustin demonstrated his immense strength and brought honor to his nation. After winning that match, his popularity had soared. But in this match, he was once again facing a foreign opponent.

Regardless of the spectators’ personal opinions, they would back him unconditionally. When faced with an outsider, Dragonmarsh’s people often displayed remarkable unity. Even though internal conflicts were frequent, they united as one the moment an external threat appeared.

After Dustin entered the ring, Jeremiah, contestant number nine, stepped forward. In contrast to the deceased Bill and George, Jeremiah didn’t act arrogantly. Aside from the time he showcased his strength by defeating Truce, he had kept a low profile.

However, Dustin understood that this composed priest was only putting on an act. Among the three contestants sent by the Hall of Gods, Jeremiah was the strongest and more formidable than the other two combined.

“I can tell you’re a dangerous opponent. I bet defeating you won’t be easy today.” Jeremiah’s gaze fixed intently on Dustin. His expression was tense, yet he showed no signs of underestimating Dustin.

Though he couldn’t fully gauge Dustin’s strength, the threat he posed felt comparable to Fenley and the top- ranked experts on the Legendary List. Jeremiah sensed that Dustin might be even stronger. He was determined to give this fight everything he had.

“Defeat me?” Dustin replied with a faint smile. “If you manage to walk away alive, I’ll count that as a win for you.”

of Gods, especially those who posed a serious threat. He would handle

You seem

said, grinning. “Are you so sure you

out,” Dustin

Let me test

to transform. A dense layer of black scales quickly covered him like armor and protected his

used by George earlier. However, Jeremiah’s genetic modifications were even more

defense, reflexes, recovery, and senses. It wasn’t an exaggeration to say he had no

your weapon.” Jeremiah

cut into the battle ring floor and left deep grooves as if slicing through

it when you’re dead.” Dustin

nature, he was still

Sensing the charged atmosphere, Oron quickly announced the start of the match

see what you’ve got!” Jeremiah shot forward like an arrow

razor-sharp. He could detect and exploit any