Xu Yi smiled coldly but did not answer.
Zhao Bei Xuan grew even angrier. "Spineless coward! Such a craven wretch is no fit candidate to travel to the Road Court for the imperial examination. If you take part, you'll bring everlasting shame upon Huaixi Prefecture. I'll report this to my uncle, and have him inform the Prefect and strip you of your place!"
Xu Yi replied coldly, "Jealous and intolerant of the capable—that's all you are. I'm certain that officials like your uncle and Steward Feng are no more than a drop in the ocean across all Huaixi Prefecture."
Steward Feng flew into a rage. "You little bastard! You dare insult an appointed official? What crime do you think you've committed?"
Xu Yi smiled. "What are you talking about, Steward Feng? When did I say anything insulting? I wonder, do you know your own business well, or are you simply determined to take offense?"
Steward Feng was left speechless, but couldn't find the slightest thing to pin on him.
"Rat! Are you going to fight or not?"
Zhao Bei Xuan bellowed in fury, a Shadow-Sound Pearl already clutched in his palm. If Xu Yi refused to fight, he would record the scene and send it to the Prefectural Office. Surely they would have to take action then.
Xu Yi narrowed his eyes. "If you're looking to die, I'll oblige. But I never fight without something to gain. If you want to fight, fine. First, we sign a life-and-death contract. Second, I want several Fire Spirit Stones as stakes."
Zhao Bei Xuan gaped. "Rat, what kind of excuse is that? If you really have the ability to kill me, my Sumeru Ring will be yours. Why make such an absurd demand?"
Xu Yi snorted. "I'm asking whether you dare or not.