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.

ensuring their gambling activities could continue uninterrupted

progressed to morning, the

anticipation as crowds filled every available

sum to secure a prime spot. She had set up

everything from match outcomes to timing and fighting styles, the variety offered was

for crates of celestial stones to be delivered

day, Abigail appeared resolute to

thousands of spectators, including elite members from various major sects, gathering at

lead to untold wealth. She

to the gambling activities as long as they didn't

provided Abigail with the perfect environment to make a profit. Thus, her

herself with her schemes in the tournament venue,

Summit, he ventured alone

decision was influenced by a letter he found slipped under his door that morning. The letter's content was simple. It was a

dismissed such a request without much

bore a peculiar mark—a distinct emblem

the years, the Hall of Gods had been relentless in their efforts to sow discord and

attempt to assassinate Rufus in Swinton, where

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

him out before he had revealed

letter, he