Zhang Yu nodded. "Sparring and exchanging pointers between fellow cultivators is only natural. But if you had the intention, Daoist friend, you could have sent me a challenge letter. If I had the time, I would naturally have accepted.
"If you fear your methods being exposed and do not wish for fellow cultivators to observe, we could also choose some uninhabited place to spar in private. But for you to come knocking like this—regardless of which of us is harmed—it would be difficult to give all our fellow cultivators an account. Do you not agree?"
Before cultivators arranged a battle, they would first send a formal challenge letter. Besides being a matter of etiquette, its chief purpose was to provide proof for both sides: proof that this was a contest of mystical arts rather than a private grudge, thus preventing misunderstandings.
Openly issuing a challenge before a crowd, as Wang Chongjin had done, was also one way, though few people favored it.
But to issue no challenge letter and invite battle without any witnesses present was especially improper.
Daoist Chu said, "Rest assured, Zhang Xuanzheng. Before I left, I had already informed my fellow disciples. There will certainly be no impropriety. And there is another reason for doing this."
His lips moved several times as he transmitted a few words directly to Zhang Yu.
Zhang Yu's gaze shifted slightly upon hearing them.
Daoist Chu then took a letter from his sleeve and solemnly said, "The challenge letter is here. Please accept it, Daoist friend."
Zhang Yu lowered his gaze. The challenge letter flew over, and he caught it in his hand.
Seeing him accept the letter, Daoist Chu gave a solemn bow. "Zhang Xuanzheng, I await your instruction."
Zhang Yu glanced at the challenge letter and tucked it into his