An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori (official version)

"That's true. With your lofty ambitions, why would you care about a few underperforming disciples?" Alloy said sarcastically.

He added, "Yet, those very disciples have shown impressive growth since joining the Celestial Alliance. Perhaps... they're simply struggling to adjust to the Sword Union's treatment?" "Mr. Marshall, you talk a big game, but it doesn't amount to much when it comes to real skill," Cyrus said coldly. He continued, "Since this is a Combat Tournament, why don't we take it to the stage? Are you up for showing these young ones what true skill really looks like?" "If you're so eager, I'd be happy to oblige," Alloy replied with an indifferent smile. "I'd also like to see if your swordsmanship lives up to the rumors." One was ranked second on the Champ- Tier List, and the other was third. Their strength differences weren't big. If they faced off, it was anyone's guess who would win.

"Please calm down." Seeing the situation heating up, Kaden, sitting between them, quickly intervened with a smile to mediate.

He added, "Today's tournament is meant for the younger generation. As guild leaders, it wouldn't be right for us to steal their spotlight. Let's take a moment to think this through and avoid any rash decisions." "You're right," Alloy nodded. “Let's put our old rivalries aside for today. If Mr. Hadley is eager for a challenge, let our disciples settle it." "Fine," Cyrus said coldly. "But if we're going to compete, let's raise the stakes.

"Oh? What did you have in mind?" Alloy raised an eyebrow.

"It's simple," Cyrus said. "If we win, all the swords in your armory will becours." "Deal," Alloy replied with a smirk. "But if we win, you'll need to hand over the Phantom Sword Technique." The Phantom Sword Technique was the Sword Union's most guarded secret, known only to a select few top disciples. It was the foundation of their guild.

If the Celestial Alliance could acquire it, they could use their vast resources to train a new generation of elite swordmasters.

"Hmph! You've got snerve trying to lay claim to our Phantom Sword Technique!" Cyrus's eyes narrowed. "What's wrong? Scared you'll lose, Mr. Hadley?" Alloy grinned.

He continued, "If you're too chicken to place a bet, just admit it. We wouldn't want anyone thinking the Celestial Alliance is just throwing its weight around." "Don't try to provoke me," Cyrus retorted coldly. "I'm willing to make a deal, but I won't agree to anything that putsat a disadvantage. If you want my Phantom Sword Technique, you'll need to trade it for your Four Elements of God's Technique." He knew Alloy was trying to goad him, but he didn't care. He was confident he would win. After all, his top disciple, Glenn, was even better than he had been in his prime.

At such a young age, Glenn had already achieved the rank of ultimate grandmaster. Cyrus figured dealing with someone like Fenley was child's play for Glenn.

"Deal!" Alloy said firmly.

He felt that trading a few prized swords and the Four Elements of God's Technique for the Phantom Sword Technique was a bargain too good to pass up.

"Okay, it's settled then!" Cyrus glanced at Glenn, who merely nodded without speaking.

Though Glenn found the bet trivial, he was willing to participate if it brought glory to the Sword Union. It was a convenient opportunity to dampen the Celestial Alliance's pride.

As these two major guilds competed secretly, a commotion arose from the southwest direction.

The crowd turned to see a group of mysterious figures in white robes and masks. They walked slowly while carrying a black sedan chair.

These robed and masked figures exuded an imposing presence. Each one was a Grandmaster, walking as if gliding above the ground.

"It's the leader of the Mystic Arts Order! Everyone, clear the way!" The sight of the sedan chair marked with the Mystic Arts Order's emblem sent a wave of terror through the crowd. People scrambled to clear the area and avoided it like a plague.

Among the three major guilds, the Celestial Alliance wielded the most ΟΠ influence, the Swar Union boasted the greatest combat prowess, and the Mystic Arts Order was the most mysterious and feared. The Mystic Arts Order was notorious for its ambiguous nature and often straddled the line between good and evil.

While it might be acceptable to ally with them, offending them could mean death-or worse, the complete annihilation of one's entire family. Swere subjected to endless torment by poisonous insects, and their suffering was so extrthat it was worse than death. The Mystic Arts Order's fearsreputation for cruelty had instilled a deep, abiding terror. So, when their leader appeared, the entire area fell into an uneasy silence.

The once-crowded path had becdeserted. Everyone scattered in every m direction, desperate to avoid crossing paths with them. They knew the Mystic Arts Order's methods were cloaked in mystery and dread. Their reputation for killing without a trace was infamous. The thought of falling victim to their poisons was enough to make anyone wary.

"It's surprising to see the old witch, who's been in seclusion for years, make an appearance," Cyrus said, narrowing his eyes.

"Mr. Hadley, I'd advise you to lower your voice," Alloy said with a sly smile. "If Madam Penelope hears you calling her an old witch, you might find yourself in serious trouble." Though his tone sounded like a friendly warning, he deliberately raised his voice as if he wanted Penelope to hear every word.