"How could that be? I'm very strong," Diana said proudly.
"How about this? Let's make a bet," Hao Shuai proposed. "We'll fight. I'm not asking you to beat me. If you can last ten moves against me, I'll leave the island with you right away to find Ares. If you can't—"
"Then I'll listen to your advice and stay on the island for now," Diana replied.
Hao Shuai ignored Diana's irritation at being underestimated and turned to Queen Hippolyta. "Your Majesty, what do you think of that suggestion?"
"Agreed." After a moment's thought, Queen Hippolyta accepted.
The Queen knew what her daughter was like. If she flat-out forbade Diana from going, Diana would probably sneak away in the middle of the night. Better to let her find out for herself that she had no chance.
Though she had never seen Hao Shuai fight, his presence just now had given her great confidence in his strength.
Paradise Island's arena
Though it was called an arena, it was really just an open field. Green grass covered the ground, and mountains surrounded it, forming a sort of basin. Weapons commonly used by the Amazon Warriors were laid out around the area. They trained and sparred here every day.
Now, surrounded by the Amazons, Hao Shuai had arrived.
Looking at all the people standing on the rocks around them—more accurately, all the women—Hao Shuai was speechless. Just how bored were the Amazons? In no time at all, so many had shown up to watch the excitement and gawk.
And with all of you watching, what would happen to Diana's pride if she lost? Weren't you worried she'd settle the score with you afterward and make your lives miserable?
What Hao Shuai didn't know was that the Queen had sent people to summon them