The chasm between major realms was absolutely impossible to cross.
But that was only under normal circumstances.
Whether it was Karma or sword intent, both had already transcended the limits of convention.
Shen Cang took all of this in.
That detached posture, the careless glance the menial youth had cast over the viewing platform, and the hundreds of pairs of eyes behind him fixed on his back—
Everything told him the same fact:
There was no avoiding today's battle.
In the brief time it took for an incense stick to burn, both Bright Azure Sect's reputation and Shen Cang's own dignity had already vanished without a trace.
His most prized disciple, along with the sect protector who wielded its authority over punishment, had both been utterly crushed by the youth standing on the arena in menial robes.
If nothing unexpected happened, the next person to be crushed would be himself.
Shen Cang's expression was grave. He slowly descended from the viewing platform, walking down the stone steps one at a time. His steps were steady, and his robes did not stir in the wind.
The Sect Master of Bright Azure Sect came to a stop atop the arena.
Less than fifty feet separated him from Chen Yan. For a Spirit 통 Realm cultivator, that distance could be crossed in less than the blink of an eye.
Yet Shen Cang did not move. His hands merely hung at his sides.
Then Shen Cang first cupped his hands toward Chen Yan in salute before slowly raising them and assuming Bright Azure Sect's most basic opening stance—
Green Pine Welcomes Guests.
Every disciple of Bright Azure Sect had practiced this opening stance.
It was the most rudimentary move, one with no killing power at all, usually used only as etiquette before sparring between