Lu Changfeng stared coldly at Zhao Feng, radiating the determination of a man certain of victory.
The courtyard erupted into a buzz of discussion when they heard him challenge Zhao Feng.
"Number one challenging number nine on the Dragon Rankings? That's hardly worth it."
"If Lu Changfeng loses, he'll have to swap ranks with Zhao Feng."
"Lu Changfeng can't possibly lose. His combat strength is on par with the Innate Realm."
"Exactly. Everyone saw those feats of his with their own eyes."
"Speaking of which, what earned Zhao Feng ninth place on the Dragon Rankings? We've barely seen him fight."
As they discussed this, everyone turned their eyes toward Zhao Feng and Shen Ci.
Zhao Feng knew that everyone on the Dragon Rankings had fought and sparred at Exchange Gatherings or other public occasions.
Since entering the Astral Force stage, however, he had fought other Astral Force experts almost exclusively in life-and-death battles on the battlefield, creating a gap in available information.
The Wind and Cloud Tower could investigate that missing information, but ordinary people would never pay attention to it.
In truth, even the Wind and Cloud Tower could not uncover the full strength of every individual.
Ignoring Lu Changfeng, Zhao Feng leisurely dipped the last piece of spirit beast meat into the sauce and put it into his mouth.
"I have more here." Su Qingwan giggled and passed him her untouched plate of spirit beast meat.
Murong Fu, who had been looking forward to the spectacle, immediately darkened again.
"I'll eat it when I get back."
Zhao Feng rose to his full height and walked into the center of the courtyard. His steps were unhurried, his boots striking the flagstones with steady, measured sounds.
Monk Liaoran, Lin Lie, Situ Xun, Qin Guanyue, Xie Yungui, and everyone else followed