An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

"I..."

Abigail's words left Ruby speechless, and she blushed. Ruby suddenly realized she was too naive.

Grudges and alliances often defied reason in the martial world—either kill or be killed.

If Luke intended to kill Abigail, then it was only natural for her to defend herself by retaliating against him. Her actions were justified.

Furthermore, as Abigail pointed out, those who acted solely for profit were hardly virtuous. Therefore, it was not worthwhile to advocate for justice on their behalf.

"Ruby, judging by your demeanor, you're likely new to the martial world," Abigail began. "Holding onto your good intentions is commendable, but you must choose your allies wisely. Blindly playing the role of a saint will only bring harm to yourself and others."

She offered a knowing smile. "Let's let bygones be bygones. There's no need to let tension brew between us over strangers' affairs. Come, let's continue with our drinks."

Then, she lifted her glass and nodded toward Ruby.

Ruby hesitated briefly before raising her glass and downing its contents.

As the tension dissipated after the brief commotion, the atmosphere in the tavern returned to its former merriment as if nothing had happened. Laughter and chatter resumed, accompanied by the clinking of glasses.

Meanwhile, members of the Mystic Arts Order swiftly cleaned up the aftermath outside the tavern.

With the streets littered with bodies and blood, they worked diligently to erase any traces of the night's violence. Even if their actions were in self-defense, they had to ensure no lingering consequences.

preserving their reputation and ensuring their gambling activities could continue

progressed to morning, the

filled every available space. They were eagerly

invested a significant sum to secure a prime spot. She had set up ten gambling tables to accommodate

range of wagers available, covering everything from match outcomes to

stones to be delivered overnight from the

contrast to the trivial disputes on the previous day, Abigail appeared resolute to leave a lasting impression this

of thousands of spectators, including elite members from various major sects, gathering at the Sacred Wrym Summit, there was

these potential gamblers would lead to untold wealth. She naturally had taken precautions just in

eye to the gambling activities

environment to make a profit. Thus, her new round

her schemes in

Summit, he ventured alone to a

that morning. The letter's content was simple. It was a

have dismissed such a request without much thought. However, this time was

mark—a distinct emblem of the Hall of

in their efforts to sow discord and assassinate key figures within the palace. Their reason

to assassinate Rufus in Swinton, where they had even deployed the

that occasion, the Hall of Gods persisted in their clandestine machinations. But their sudden appearance near Sacred Wrym Summit hinted at hidden

why the Hall of Gods members sought him out before he had revealed

letter,