An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

On the battle ring, Fenley and Dalen stared at each other from a distance.

Both were geniuses who stood out among thousands, but Fenley had the edge in reputation and prestige. However, Dalen had more fans, and the reason was simple-he was handsome.

As soon as he entered the ring, cheers erupted from the crowd. Most voices belonged to young women who had formed an energetic cheer squad. They encouraged and chanted his name like fans meeting their favorite celebrity.

But it wasn’t just the women that were drawn to him. Dalen’s looks held a certain charm for another group as well. Some bold men, ignoring the awkward glances around them, openly declared their affection. Their behavior was bordering on wild obsession.

“Dalen! I love you more than a dog loves a good belly rub.”

“Dalen! I’d do anything for you.”

“Dalen! Do you know the difference between you and the stars? The stars are up there, but you’re in my heart.”

The fanatical outbursts came from men holding banners and shouting cheesy lines. Their voices were even louder than the women’s cheer squad. 1

It was quite a sight, and the surrounding spectators were unsure how to respond. While it took real courage for men to express their love for one another, it was something most people needed time to adjust to.

“Looks like Mr. Shade is quite the popular guy. He even got men swooning over him.”

“Sometimes, being good-looking can be a bit of a hassle.”

Crystal and Ruby shared a knowing glance and could barely hold back their laughter. Beneath their amusement lay an unexpected thrill at his striking looks. If he happened to be into men, the sisters realized it would undoubtedly turn things up a notch.

the cheers and shouts around him. He had been through it countless times and

grew thick with anticipation, Oron wasted no time and announced the

Dalen Shade from the Shadow Citadel.”

the Celestial Alliance.” Fenley returned the

than to underestimate his opponent. He knew that

while, Mr. Hudson. I’ve been looking forward to learning from you today,” Dalen said, slowly pulling out

during his previous match with Jude. But now he wasn’t going

with his hands clasped behind his

arrow released from a bow. As he closed in, he flicked his wrist. Three poisoned needles shot from the fan, and

“Child’s play!”

a heavy stomp, the ground beneath him cracked

a raging storm. It deflected the poisonous needles before continuing toward

energy wave distorted the atmosphere with sheer

displayed after breaking through to the ultimate grandmaster level. Just

“Huh?”

as he realized he couldn’t withstand Fenley’s attack. With a quick push from the ground, he launched himself into the air like a hawk taking flight. He narrowly avoided the powerful wave of

“What a

ethereal divine spirit materialized behind him. He raised his hand, and the spirit mirrored the motion as it slammed down on Dalen, who was still in the

spirit’s palm shadow came crashing down with the weight of a mountain, accompanied by a thunderous roar as if it aimed to