An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

On the battle ring, Fenley and Dalen stared at each other from a distance.

Both were geniuses who stood out among thousands, but Fenley had the edge in reputation and prestige. However, Dalen had more fans, and the reason was simple-he was handsome.

As soon as he entered the ring, cheers erupted from the crowd. Most voices belonged to young women who had formed an energetic cheer squad. They encouraged and chanted his name like fans meeting their favorite celebrity.

But it wasn’t just the women that were drawn to him. Dalen’s looks held a certain charm for another group as well. Some bold men, ignoring the awkward glances around them, openly declared their affection. Their behavior was bordering on wild obsession.

“Dalen! I love you more than a dog loves a good belly rub.”

“Dalen! I’d do anything for you.”

“Dalen! Do you know the difference between you and the stars? The stars are up there, but you’re in my heart.”

The fanatical outbursts came from men holding banners and shouting cheesy lines. Their voices were even louder than the women’s cheer squad. 1

It was quite a sight, and the surrounding spectators were unsure how to respond. While it took real courage for men to express their love for one another, it was something most people needed time to adjust to.

“Looks like Mr. Shade is quite the popular guy. He even got men swooning over him.”

“Sometimes, being good-looking can be a bit of a hassle.”

Crystal and Ruby shared a knowing glance and could barely hold back their laughter. Beneath their amusement lay an unexpected thrill at his striking looks. If he happened to be into men, the sisters realized it would undoubtedly turn things up a notch.

Dalen was unfazed by the cheers and shouts around him. He had been through it countless times and was accustomed

the tension in the air grew thick with anticipation, Oron wasted no time

from the Shadow Citadel.” Dalen nodded

Celestial Alliance.”

pushover. Even with complete confidence, he knew better than to underestimate his opponent. He knew that every opponent deserved his full effort. Even the slightest misstep could cost him everything in

to learning from you today,” Dalen said, slowly pulling out a folded fan

the weapon he had held back during his previous match with Jude. But now he wasn’t going to

move.” Fenley stood with his hands clasped behind his back, exuding

shot forward like an arrow released from a bow. As he closed in, he flicked his wrist. Three poisoned needles shot from the fan, and each one targeted Fenley’s vital

“Child’s play!”

didn’t dodge. With a heavy stomp, the ground

of internal energy burst forth like a raging storm. It deflected the poisonous needles before continuing toward

The energy wave distorted the atmosphere with sheer power, tearing

displayed after breaking through to the ultimate grandmaster level.

“Huh?”

as he realized he couldn’t withstand Fenley’s attack. With a quick push from the ground, he launched himself

sneered. “What a

spirit materialized behind him. He raised his hand, and the spirit mirrored the motion as it slammed down on Dalen, who was still

with the weight of a mountain, accompanied by a thunderous roar as if it

the Four Elements of God’s Technique had reached terrifying new heights since his breakthrough. His attacks were