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.

their

night swiftly progressed to morning, the atmosphere

at this early hour, the venue buzzed with anticipation as crowds filled every available space. They

sum to secure a prime spot. She had

from match outcomes to

celestial stones to be delivered overnight

previous day, Abigail appeared resolute to leave a lasting impression this

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

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

eye to the gambling activities as long as they didn't disrupt the

environment to make a profit. Thus, her new round of harvesting

her schemes in

crowd at Sacred Wrym Summit, he ventured alone

by a letter he found slipped under his door that morning. The

have dismissed such a request without much thought.

letter bore a peculiar mark—a distinct emblem

efforts to sow discord and assassinate key figures within the

to assassinate Rufus in Swinton, where they

Hall of Gods persisted in their clandestine

he had revealed

in the letter, he arrived at a