The martial arts arena outside Bian City's royal palace.
Bored and listless feudal nobles spent their days devising every possible way to seek sensory thrills. The annual Martial Arts Competition easily sent their hormones racing with excitement; whether they wagered on victory or defeat or simply watched the spectacle, they could find amusement in it.
The area around the arena platform was packed with people, and even the female relatives of each household had designated seating.
Besides displaying the abilities of the younger generation, such a large-scale event was also a massive social gathering. There were those seeking connections, those cultivating relationships, and even those matchmaking. The young masters were now as graceful as jade trees in the wind, refined and courteous, as though the ones who had drowned themselves in wine and debauchery at brothels last night had been someone else. The young ladies of every household hid their faces behind fragrant fans as they secretly peeked at the young masters. The lives of the powerful and wealthy were indeed rich and colorful.
Of course, if nobles had conflicts that could not be reconciled, they could settle them in the arena. Or rival lovers could determine who got the beauty through a great battle.
"It really is corrupt and rotten..."
In a certain corner, Bai Yujun had no choice but to slow her breathing. The smells were far too mixed and abundant for her to enjoy.
Ren Zhuo was trembling. Perfectly normal. Every thug was nervous, excited, and unaccustomed to it the first time he fought. He would get used to it—once a stranger, twice a friend.
"Sir, I'm a little nervous. I'm afraid I'll make a mistake..."
"It's fine. Eat this medicine, and I guarantee you won't fear anyone."
A leaf resembling a blade of green grass was