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

Penelope, please take a seat.” Kaden gestured

that, the leaders of the three major guilds

had been busy, immediately went to greet

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

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

heard you’ve been quite busy at Sacred Wrym Summit lately. You must have raked

bit,”

is great, but don’t let that distract you from today’s matches. We need to make sure the

I’m confident I’ll be in the

didn’t face Dustin in the early rounds, she knew

be looking forward to it.” Penelope

bloodline and was now a rare Dark Phoenix. Combined with the Mystic Arts

top-three finish and had high

time. The sooner we get this over with, the sooner we can wrap up,” Cyrus said

pumped up, let’s start the match,” Kaden said with a smile. After

“Today, 32 contestants will compete for a spot in the top 8. To keep

he finished, the crowd erupted

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

any of these contestants would be a prized asset in