An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“Hmph! You got lucky this time.” Kendricks glared at Azalea, then sheathed his Demonblade and left the battle ring.

Even though he won, there was no thrill in it. He didn’t feel proud about winning against a vulnerable woman when she had managed to injure him.

Since his rise to fame, he had never felt so embarrassed. The Divine Talismans had played a part, but he couldn’t deny being outmatched and humiliated.

The missed chance to retaliate only deepened his frustration. Kendricks vowed he wouldn’t show the Mystic Arts Order disciples mercy if he faced them again.

“Contestant number five is the winner in this match,” Oron announced.

The spectators reacted with warm applause.

Azalea’s stunning performance and Kendricks’s formidable strength were worthy of praise. Most previous matches had been brutal, where a single misstep could cost a contestant their life.

It was rare to see someone as wise as her, who knew when she was outmatched and chose to surrender immediately. Her quick thinking had saved her life.

“Grand Sorceress, I’m sorry for disappointing you by not winning the match.” After returning to her seat, Azalea acknowledged her mistake.

“What’s important is that you’re safe. Winning or losing doesn’t matter,” Abigail replied with a smile.

She continued, “Kendricks is ranked eighth on the Legendary List, so it’s natural that you couldn’t defeat him.

“I was actually worried you might impulsively push through to the end, which would have been unwise. Besides, you performed admirably and injured him, so it’s not a total loss.”

her, Azalea’s safety was more important than winning. While she hoped Azalea would make it to the top eight, it wouldn’t have been a huge concern if she hadn’t. After all, winning and losing were simply parts of the competition and couldn’t

sixth match is about to begin. Please welcome contestant number six and contestant number

“Finally, it’s my turn!”

filled the venue, and a figure in green flashed into the air. After

at such a bizarre

was that? Was that

It happened so

a technique that lets the user shorten the distance between steps and allows

spectators buzzed

extraordinary techniques. The outcome of each match

robe stood at the center of the battle ring. His hair flowed despite the still air, and his robes fluttered,

keep you waiting.”

almost otherworldly beauty, leaped into the air. He crossed 300

of the Shadow Citadel.” With a

spectators. Although he might not have been the strongest contestant, his charm certainly made

She had never

in green gave Dalen a once- over with noticeable disdain. Though his looks were nothing to scoff at, he

I know your

guide. My name is Leigh. Jude Leigh,” the man in

List. It’s a pleasure to