An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“Hmph! Stop adding fuel to the fire!” Cyrus glared at Alloy. “The Celestial Alliance has had its fair share of run- ins with the Mystic Arts Order over the years. If we’re talking enemies, your guild is the real thorn in their side.”

“It’s nothing but minor skirmishes. I’m sure Madam Penelope sees the bigger picture and isn’t bothered by it,” Alloy said with a subtle grin.

Cyrus might outmatch Alloy in brute strength, but when it came to quick- witted retorts, Alloy was the clear victor.

“Mr. Hadley, Mr. Marshall, you two seem to be in high spirits.”

The black sedan came to a stop in front of them. An elderly woman with silver hair and a slightly hunched back emerged slowly while leaning on a serpent-headed cane.

This was Penelope Solace, the leader of the Mystic Arts Order. She had risen to fame long before Alloy and Cyrus, earning her place as a revered senior figure.

Despite her years of seclusion and rare public appearances, her reputation was as fearsome and commanding as Alloy and Cyrus’. Her name evoked both awe and trepidation.

“Madam Penelope.” As the host, Kaden stood first and gave a respectful nod to her.

“It seems the Ancient Sage has passed the mantle to you. Good,” she acknowledged with a neutral expression.

“Madam Penelope, it’s been a while. How have you been?” Alloy stood, nodded in greeting, and smiled warmly.

“Thank you for your concern, Mr. Marshall. I’m still in good health and plan to stick around for a few more years,” she replied calmly.

“That’s great,” Alloy said with a smile.

glanced at Cyrus, who remained impassive and made

Penelope, please take a seat.” Kaden gestured

that, the leaders of the three major guilds were

Abigail, who had been busy, immediately went to

ring was operating quietly in the corner. She kept a low profile because she was

too much attention since so many high-profile figures were in attendance.

quite busy at Sacred Wrym Summit lately. You must have raked in quite a bit of money,

bit,” Abigail replied with a

don’t let that distract you from today’s matches. We need

confident

didn’t face Dustin in the early rounds, she knew the other minor challengers were no match

to

Combined with the Mystic Arts Order’s legacy, her combat

to secure a top-three finish and had high hopes for her to

let’s not waste any more time. The sooner we get this over with, the

smile. After seeing Alloy and Penelope nod

cue and walked to the center of the battle ring. “Today, 32 contestants will compete for a spot in the top 8.

soon as he finished, the

stage. Most of the 32 finalists were grandmasters, with a few still halfway to becoming

of these contestants would be