Kunlun Mountain Plaza, atop the arena.
Watching Duo Bao put away the whip, still looking unsatisfied, Laozi couldn't take it anymore.
His face darkened. He swept his whisk and announced in a stern voice,
"This battle goes to Duo Bao."
"Additionally, to ensure fairness and entertainment in these discussions and sparring matches,"
"the use of those... strange magic treasures Zhao Gongming made is forbidden in the upcoming matches!"
His words caused an uproar.
But unexpectedly, no one seemed disappointed. Instead, they turned to Zhao Gongming with even greater eagerness.
Sure, those treasures' side effects were humiliating and outrageous.
But... who wouldn't want a magic treasure personally crafted by Zhao Gongming?
After all, its ability to ignore defenses and force its target into a stun was right there for all to see!
If you could win, what did a little embarrassment matter?
Duo Bao regretfully put away the Lightning Five Consecutive Whips, but winning one match had at least let him blow off some steam.
The matches continued, but many people's minds were no longer on the competition.
Over in the Chan Sect's area, Guang Chengzi, sporting an explosive hairstyle, pulled Yu Ding Zhenren and Taiyi Zhenren along.
They sidled over to Zhao Gongming, wearing ingratiating smiles.
"Junior Brother Zhao, about that thing..."
"The magic treasure you mentioned earlier... the one that can counter the Lightning Five Consecutive Whips..."
Zhao Gongming replied with a beaming smile.
"Consider it done!"
"Don't worry, Senior Brothers. Once the Kunlun Grand Ceremony is over, I'll fire up the forge as soon as you have the materials!"
"As for the materials... you can all give it your best in the matches. There'll be rewards for winning streaks!"
"You can ask your Masters, Martial Uncles, and the others for top-grade natural treasures!"
"That's what you call shearing