Ding Xin spoke to Jiang Ping An without preamble:
"Originally, the clan had arranged for me to take part in the battles against other clans."
"But not long ago, the clan revoked my qualification, saying there was someone more suitable."
"But to be honest, I don't trust outsiders."
Seeing that Ding Xin seemed unconvinced, Cheng Yi's expression immediately turned unpleasant.
It had not been easy to invite Jiang Ping An here.
If Jiang Ping An became unhappy and harbored resentment, he might not give his all when facing the other clans.
If that happened, their results would look terrible.
Cheng Yi said sternly, "Daoist Jiang has passed the assessments continuously for two thousand years on the Fourth Floor of the Dao Beginning Heavenly Mansion. That alone is enough to prove Daoist Jiang's talent is far beyond anything you can compare to."
A uniquely shaped wooden sword appeared in Ding Xin's hand, and fighting spirit surfaced on his green face.
"Hearing is illusory; seeing is believing. I want to have a match with Daoist Jiang!"
For the sake of the clan's interests, he would never allow some outsider to casually take his place.
He had to witness this outsider's strength with his own eyes before he could rest easy.
Cheng Yi was somewhat angered, his tone growing heavier.
"Ding Xin, stop messing around. Leave at once..."
"We can compete."
Jiang Ping An's calm voice rang out, cutting Cheng Yi off.
Cheng Yi's face was full of apology. "My apologies, Daoist Jiang. I've caused you trouble."
Jiang Ping An lightly shook his head. "It's understandable."
His gaze fell upon Ding Xin, his tone unchanged. "How do you want to compete?"
Ding Xin laid out his condition for the duel:
"To save time, we'll make it a quick battle. The two of us