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.

Cyrus, who remained impassive and made no move

gestured politely while guiding her

of the

Abigail, who had been busy, immediately

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

didn’t want to attract too much attention since so many high-profile figures were in attendance. After all, being too

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

just a bit,” Abigail

let that distract you from today’s matches. We need

and I’m confident I’ll be in the top three,”

early rounds, she knew the other minor

to it.” Penelope nodded with a

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

a top-three finish and had high hopes for her

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

pumped up, let’s start the match,” Kaden said with a smile. After seeing Alloy and Penelope nod in agreement,

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

the crowd

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

of these contestants would be a prized asset in