Lahan's chest heaved violently, and his face had turned crimson from the strain. Xiong Tianba's expression remained unchanged-mainly because his skin was so dark that any slight change would have been impossible to see-but his breathing was much steadier than Lahan's.
The two walked into the hall together. Warriors had already reported the result of their contest.
First Prince Xue Daohong laughed heartily. "Good! Good! Good! A draw! Both are warriors of rare caliber. Attendants! Reward them with wine!"
Someone immediately brought two cups of fine wine. Lahan and Xiong Tianba accepted them, tipped back their heads, and drained their cups.
In truth, this outcome pleased everyone. After all, no one wanted a fight to the death to unfold before their eyes. Eldest Princess Xue Lingjun said, "Give these two warriors seats!"
Xiong Tianba turned cheerfully to Hu Xiaotian. "Uncle! Where are my hammers?"
Hu Xiaotian pointed at his feet.
Smiling, Xiong Tianba went to retrieve his great hammers, only to hear Lahan roar behind him, "Give me back the hammers!" He charged at Xiong Tianba, raised a fist the size of a vinegar bowl, and punched straight at his chest.
Seeing Lahan attack him, Xiong Tianba naturally refused to back down. He threw a punch to meet it and roared, "The hammers are mine!"
Their fists collided head-on, and everyone around them heard the sound of flesh and bone crashing together. Thud! The force was terrifying. Lahan was tall and long-armed, and most people thought he ought to have a considerable advantage in such a direct clash of strength. Yet that was not what happened. When their fists met, Lahan staggered back three steps. His body swayed, and a very strange expression crossed his face. He pressed his lips together, but in the end, he could not hold it