An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

As Dustin and the others chatted, a commotion suddenly erupted nearby.

The bustling crowd swiftly scattered. They immediately cleared a wide path as if something dreadful was approaching.

Then, a stunningly beautiful woman, accompanied by several mysterious figures in white robes, entered the tournament arena.

Her white hair and eyes gave her an otherworldly appearance, and her demeanor exuded a chilling authority.

Within a 30-foot radius, no one dared to approach her willingly. Their faces betrayed a mix of reverence and fear, as if they were avoiding a venomous serpent.

Yet, when Dustin saw the white-haired woman, he couldn't help but pause momentarily. He was surprised as he hadn't expected to encounter a familiar face.

"Hmm, that's strange. That woman looks pretty, but why's everyone acting so scared around her?" Ruby scratched her head in confusion.

"Yes, she's beautiful. But take a closer look at the emblem on her clothes. She's from the Mystic Arts Order," Dalen pointed out.

"What? The Mystic Arts Order?" Ruby's eyes widened as she instinctively took a step back. Though she hadn't crossed paths with them, she had heard the rumors.

As one of the three major sects, their stance differed entirely from the Sword Union and the Celestial Alliance.

Many regarded them as a cult.

After all, the Mystic Arts Order practiced techniques that involved constant association with poisonous creatures.

Their disciples were also known for their ambiguous conduct. They had a reputation for flouting the rules of the martial world. A spat with them could mean disaster for a whole family.

With rumors swirling, just hearing "Mystic Arts Order" was enough to make people keep their distance. Over time, they beca nthat struck fear into even the bravest souls.

"Who would've thought the Combat Tournament would attract Mystic Arts Order disciples, too? Now, the pressure's on." Miles scratched his chin, deep in thought.

Aside from the big names on the Legendary List, many top contenders were vying for rankings in the tournament.

The pressure was already high with the Celestial Alliance in the tournament. And now, with the Mystic Arts Order participating, it beceven tougher for Sword Union disciples like Miles to stand out.

"Miles, you've got it wrong. That woman isn't just any disciple of the Mystic Arts Order," Dalen said with a smirk.

"Wait, do you know her?" Miles was surprised.

"If I'm not mistaken, she's Abigail, the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order. Ranked second on the Legendary List," Dalen revealed.

"What? The Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order? Ranked second on the Legendary List?" Miles' eyes widened in disbelief.

Crystal and Ruby shared his astonishment.

They never would've guessed that Abigail, who seemed so gentle and unassuming, held such a prestigious position.

The authority that cwith being the Grand Sorceress and ranking second on the Legendary List was enough to command respect and awe from everyone.

"Ah, so that's Abigail. She looks even better than the rumors." Ruby's surprise quickly turned into admiration.

Ruby had only two female idols on the Legendary List—Abigail and Scarlet, the Goddess of War from Dragonmarsh. So, it was no surprise that seeing one of them in person left her beyond excited.

She might have approached Abigail for a chat if they were in a less crowded place.

But amidst the crowd's watchful eyes and as a disciple of the Sword Union, Ruby knew striking up a casual conversation wasn't an option.

It would raise unnecessary suspicions and potentially cause trouble for both parties.

"Whoa, | didn't expect the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order to be so young. Thought she'd be older," Miles blurted out excitedly.

For him, catching even a glimpse of the second-ranked legend on the Legendary List was already a great honor.

"Wait... she seems to be heading our way," Crystal observed. Her gaze sharpened as she quickly noticed something off.

Abigail, who had been strolling alone, suddenly spotted something intriguing. A mischievous smirk played on her lips as she abruptly changed course.

She marched purposefully toward them with a hint of excitement in her stride.

"Hmm, she really is coming over. What does she want with us?" Ruby glanced around but didn't spot anyone else nearby.

Abigail was definitely making a beeline for them.

"Maybe she's into my charm?" Miles ran a hand through his hair, adjusting his clothes with a hopeful expression.

"Con, Miles, let's be real. If anyone's catching her eye, it's Dalen, not you," Ruby countered, bringing down his excitement a notch.

She couldn't deny Miles had scharm, but compared to Dalen, he didn't stand a chance.

"Everyone, be careful! People from the Mystic Arts Order are not to be trifled with!" Crystal frowned slightly and instinctively gripped her sword's hilt.

Abigail was the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order. She ranked second on the Legendary List and carried immense weight with her reputation.

That added pressure on Crystal, making her extra cautious in her actions.

Amid everyone's astonishment, confusion, and curiosity, Abigail dashed forward. Her face lit up with excitement and surprise, and she flung herself into Dustin's embrace.

"Sir, we meet again!" Abigail's sweet smile melted her icy exterior, replacing it with warmth and liveliness. But this unexpected display left everyone gaping in disbelief.

"Huh?" Miles stood frozen with a bewildered smile.

Ruby blinked and rubbed her eyes in disbelief.

Crystal, caught off guard, froze with her sword halfway drawn.

Even Dalen, usually so perceptive, looked astonished.

None of them had expected Abigail, the Grand Sorceress of the Mystic Arts Order, to throw herself affectionately into Dustin's arms with such carefree abandon.

Questions raced through Dalen's mind as he pondered about Dustin's identity and how he could be so familiar with Abigail.