Cease Hostilities, Fight to the Death

The calm voice rang through the council hall, and at once, the disciples' eyes lit up.

Quite a few immediately began whispering among themselves, buzzing like flies.

Fang Shu remained composed, without the slightest trace of timidity.

Qin Min narrowed her eyes, and a cold smile surfaced on her face as she prepared to agree at once.

But just then, Hall Master Du, standing in the main hall, suddenly barked, "Enough. All of you, settle down!"

The shout was like a clap of thunder, rolling through the hall and making even the eaves tremble lightly. Some disciples of low cultivation felt their blood and qi quiver within them, their faces turning pale.

Fang Shu and Qin Min were unaffected. They immediately turned their eyes toward Hall Master Du.

With her hands behind her back and a calm expression, she slowly explained, "I had you two display your cultivation to verify the truth and inspire your fellow disciples. I did not call you here to show off your ferocity and fight over who is stronger.

"With the Spring Examination approaching, sparring within the sect will neither add much experience nor avoid the risk of injury. No matter who wins or loses, the victor will expose their hidden cards, while the loser will have their spirit weakened. Neither outcome is wise for this sect."

After a pause, Hall Master Du fixed her gaze on the two of them.

"If there is fire in your hearts, save it for the Spring Examination. Even if the two of you meet there, this old woman will not say a single word. Each shall accept their own fate."

At her words, Fang Shu slowly suppressed the blazing anger in his heart.

He cupped his hands and said obediently, "Thank you, Master, for your guidance."

Beside him,