An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

"You've done so much for me. How could I ever forget your kindness?" Grace smiled and asked, "By the way, with the Hall of Gods going all out to recruit you, they must have stasks lined up for you, right? They don't invest like that without expecting a return." "You're right." Dustin nodded. He said candidly, "They wanton their side partly because of my potential but also because they need my help with their plan to invade Sacred Wyrm Summit." "As expected, they're as ambitious as ever." She narrowed her eyes and asked, "Did they tell you any specific details of the plan?" "No." He shook his head. "Mr. Styles said that aside from the God King, no one knows the details, not even him. Everyone just follows orders." "That definitely fits their style." Grace nodded.

She wasn't surprised since the Hall of Gods was always extremely cautious regarding major operations. Even those at the god level, who had served for many years, weren't privy to the entire plan.

Their level of confidentiality made it difficult for Dragonmarsh's insiders within the Hall of Gods to gather valuable intelligence.

"Now it's just a waiting game. But you need to be ready. I'll let you know when I get any news," Dustin said. "Great. I'll be waiting for your update." Grace nodded.

He didn't say much else. After exchanging a few pleasantries, he quietly returned to the tavern where he was staying.

In a lavish lakeside villa, Fenley and Alloy were engaged in conversation.

"Fenley, are you sure about this? The Advancil pill will help you break through to the ultimate grandmaster level, but it'll have lasting effects on your future growth. You really need to think this through.” Alloy placed a small box containing the tablet on the table. His expression turned serious as he warned him. "Godfather, I don't have any other choice. I have to take this risk," Fenley said with a fierce determination in his eyes.

He added, "Today's match maderealize that I still have a lot to improve. If I can't break through to the ultimate grandmaster level, I won't stand a chance in tomorrow's tournament finals." After witnessing Glenn's incredible strength and feeling the pressure from dark horses like Dustin, Fenley finally realized a harsh truth-the tournament was brutal. If he didn't give it everything he had, victory would slip through his fingers.

With that in mind, Fenley decided to take the leap and break through to the next level. It was the only way he could go head-to-head with Glenn.

"Since you've made your choice, I won't try to dissuade you. Focus on your breakthrough. Tonight, I'll stand guard for you." Alloy nodded.

He realized that if Fenley couldn't make the breakthrough, winning the tournament the next day would be out of reach. Moreover, securing a spot in the top three was far from certain.

"Thank you, Godfather. I won't let you down." Fenley nodded before swallowing the Advancil. He began to absorb its power in preparation for his breakthrough to the ultimate grandmaster level.

Alloy quietly sat beside him and stayed vigilant. After all, Fenley was the future hope of the Celestial Alliance, and his breakthrough had to go off without a hitch.

Apart from them, similar scenarios were unfolding in other guilds. Scontestants were taking enhancement tablets, while others were refining their guild's divine artifacts and kept hidden aces up their sleeves.

Everyone was preparing for tomorrow's match and knew failure wasn't an option.

The night passed without incident, and by the following morning, Sacred Wyrm Summit was already bustling with people. Representatives from all major guilds and factions had gathered. Even shigh-profile experts who typically avoid the spotlight made rare appearances.

This was the most prestigious tournament the martial world had seen in a century, with nearly all the younger martial artists gathered under one roof.

Today, they would crown the champion. The victor would undoubtedly be celebrated as the strongest prodigy in the martial world. This title would symbolize unmatched talent, bring great honor, and ensure their legacy for future generations. Even before the tournament began, the crowd was already buzzing with excitement.

The eight finalists in the tournament were Glenn from the Sword Union, Fenley from the Celestial Alliance, Abigail from the Mystic Arts Order, Dalen from the Shadow Citadel, Caleb from Sacred Wrym Summit, Emeret from the Sword Union, Zane from the Embraco Order, and Dustin, an independent contestant with no affiliations.

Among these contestants, Glenn, Fenley, and Abigail stood out as the top contenders for the for the tournament finals. Theinguilds had deep roots in the martial world, and all three were top- ranking names on the Legendary List. So, it made them the favorites to take hthe championship title. The other five were also exceptional talents. Each had a legitimate shot at the tournament finals, though they paled slightly compared to Glenn and the other favorites.

In the battle ring, anything could happen in the blink of an eye. Until the final moments, the outcremained uncertain.

There were countless stories of underdogs defeating stronger opponents and even martial artists who seemed destined for victory lost for various reasons. This unpredictability added a thrilling edge to the matches.

About an hour later, the contestants made their entrance. The atmosphere swelled with thunderous applause and cheers.