An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“That’s true. With your lofty ambitions, why would you care about a few underperforming disciples?” Alloy said sarcastically.

He added, “Yet, those very disciples have shown impressive growth since joining the Celestial Alliance. Perhaps… they’re simply struggling to adjust to the Sword Union’s treatment?”

“Mr. Marshall, you talk a big game, but it doesn’t amount to much when it comes to real skill,” Cyrus said coldly.

He continued, “Since this is a Combat Tournament, why don’t we take it to the stage? Are you up for showing these young ones what true skill really looks like?”

“If you’re so eager, I’d be happy to oblige,” Alloy replied with an indifferent smile. “I’d also like to see if your swordsmanship lives up to the rumors.”

One was ranked second on the Champ- Tier List, and the other was third. Their strength differences weren’t big. If they faced off, it was anyone’s guess who would win.

“Please calm down.” Seeing the situation heating up, Kaden, sitting between them, quickly intervened with a smile to mediate.

He added, “Today’s tournament is meant for the younger generation. As guild leaders, it wouldn’t be right for us to steal their spotlight. Let’s take a moment to think this through and avoid any rash decisions.”

“You’re right,” Alloy nodded. “Let’s put our old rivalries aside for today. If Mr. Hadley is eager for a challenge, let our disciples settle it.”

“Fine,” Cyrus said coldly. “But if we’re going to compete, let’s raise the stakes.

“Oh? What did you have in mind?” Alloy raised an eyebrow.

simple,” Cyrus said. “If we win, all the swords in your armory will become

win, you’ll need to hand over the Phantom Sword

most guarded secret, known only to a

their

got some nerve trying to lay claim to our Phantom Sword

wrong? Scared you’ll lose, Mr.

“If you’re too chicken to place a bet, just admit it. We wouldn’t want anyone thinking the Celestial Alliance is just throwing its weight

try to provoke me,” Cyrus retorted coldly. “I’m willing to make a deal, but I won’t agree to anything that puts me at a

to goad him, but he didn’t care. He was confident he would win. After all, his top disciple, Glenn, was even better than he had

such a young age, Glenn had already achieved the rank of ultimate grandmaster. Cyrus figured dealing with someone like Fenley was child’s play

“Deal!” Alloy said firmly.

that trading a few prized swords and the Four Elements of God’s Technique

Cyrus glanced at Glenn, who merely nodded

if it brought glory to

major guilds competed secretly, a

crowd turned to see a group of mysterious figures in white robes and masks. They walked slowly

and masked figures exuded an imposing presence. Each one was a

leader of the Mystic Arts Order! Everyone,

with the Mystic Arts Order’s emblem sent a wave of terror through the crowd. People scrambled to clear the area and avoided it like