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

gestured politely while guiding her to the viewing

the leaders of the three major guilds were

Abigail, who had been busy,

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

many high-profile figures were in attendance. After all, being too conspicuous could lead

Summit lately. You must have raked in quite a bit of money, right?” Penelope cracked a rare

much. It’s just a bit,” Abigail replied with

great, but don’t let that distract you from today’s matches. We need to make sure the Mystic Arts Order shines,” Penelope said,

I’ve trained hard, and I’m confident I’ll be in the

early rounds, she

forward to it.” Penelope nodded with a

was now a rare Dark Phoenix. Combined with the Mystic Arts Order’s

and had high hopes for her to

sooner we

match,” Kaden said with a smile. After seeing Alloy and Penelope

cue and walked to the center of the battle ring. “Today, 32 contestants will compete for a spot in the top 8. To keep things fair, we’ll draw lots right here. All contestants, please come up to the

soon as he finished, the

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

any of these contestants would be a