A distinct uproar instantly swept through the crowd-this had to be a first in this Martial Competition!
And for the first time, Pei Ye did not return the salute.
Chapter 244: Morning Mushroom (Part One)
Pei Ye gazed expressionlessly at the man opposite him, gripped his sword hilt, and actually drew his sword before the Cauldron Chime.
It was a stark departure from his earlier gentle bearing.
Shang Huaitong straightened and smiled faintly at Pei Ye's actions.
After obtaining the Nether Growth Chapter, much of the deeply buried viciousness in the man seemed to have vanished. Now, holding his sword lightly across his hands, he smiled and spoke in a clear, gentle voice. "Why bother?"
"The arena isn't a place to decide life and death. If that's what you want, we can arrange a time and place for a fight." Shang Huaitong lowered his head and calmly drew his sword. This, too, was a rare fine blade from the Seven Flood Dragons' collection, bearing the East Sea Sword Forge's Sword Appraisal Inscription of [Ding Superior]. As the blade emerged, it was as though mirrored light spilled from the sheath. "But here, an arena match is only an arena match. Sparring and testing our swords is a wonderful thing. Why mix anything else into it?"
"Pei Ye." The man twirled his sword and looked earnestly at the boy. "I know there's enmity between us, but when it comes to the sword, we share the same talent and devotion. I've practiced for eleven years, and among all the swords of Bowang, not one was worth my attention-until I saw you wield yours three times. Each time, my hand itched on my sword, my spirit soared, and my energy rose. Pei Ye, understanding the sword requires stillness; proving it requires a contest. Isn't