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.

who remained impassive and made no move to

take a seat.” Kaden gestured

of the three major guilds were now

seeing Penelope, Abigail, who had been busy, immediately went to

the corner. She kept a low profile because she was competing in

too much attention since so many high-profile figures were in attendance. After all, being too conspicuous could lead to losses she

Wrym Summit lately. You must have raked in

just a bit,” Abigail replied with

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

and I’m confident

early rounds, she knew the other minor challengers were no match

forward to it.” Penelope nodded with

Phoenix. Combined with the Mystic Arts Order’s legacy, her combat strength was far superior to

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

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

smile. After seeing Alloy and

the 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

as he finished, the crowd erupted

stage. Most of the 32 finalists were grandmasters, with a few still halfway to becoming grandmasters. Each had been through intense screening

of these contestants would be a prized asset in any