This could only mean that many people trained here, and that they were not weak in skill—perhaps they were exceptionally built and strong as well. Only then could the ground repeatedly struck by weapons become so hard, and only then could footprints be casually left on such hardened ground.
With that thought, Qin Baoshu warily looked around at all the martial artists who seemed unconcerned by this. Gradually, a sense of incomprehension rose within him.
Qin Baoshu had no expectations for the duel between Qu Jiang and the other man before him, because the outcome had long been decided. Qu Jiang looked haggard, but his capabilities went far beyond that. Therefore, if Qu Jiang had not been certain of himself, he likely would never have initiated such a high-stakes duel.
At that moment, Qu Jiang held an Azure Iron Plum Blossom Fan in his hand and looked into his opponent's eyes. His gaze was calm and unruffled, and he appeared utterly composed.
In contrast, Zhao Shuli held a long, wrought-iron saber, a faint ferocity clearly visible in his eyes. Yet the man himself seemed somewhat reserved.
"I'll tell you one last time. If you beg me now, I can spare you! Otherwise, don't blame me for showing no mercy!" Zhao Shuli said coldly, gripping his wrought-iron saber.
Qu Jiang's wrist trembled slightly, and the Azure Iron Plum Blossom Fan in his hand quivered faintly. His stance had already made his answer clear.
At the sight of this, a sharp gleam flashed through Zhao Shuli's eyes. His toes shifted lightly, and he was the first to lunge at Qu Jiang!
"Cough, cough, cough—" Just as Zhao Shuli's fierce assault bore down on him, Qu Jiang suddenly began coughing violently. He looked to be in terrible condition, leaving the spectators beside them