Up in the VIP pavilion, Elder Qin Changxu slowly unclasped his hands. He looked at the giant ice lotus.
He noted the structural integrity, the flawless Qi control, and the absolute dominance of the technique.
"Ahem," Elder Qin coughed delicately into his fist, turning to the stunned Sect Leader. "As I was saying. My disciple is highly motivated. His application of the Dao is... uniquely tailored."
The Alchemy Peak Master rolled her eyes so hard she nearly pulled a muscle. "He is highly motivated by dinner, Changxu. Stop pretending you planned this. Your disciple has been domesticated."
Down in the plaza, Xie Wangchen didn't walk to the victor's waiting area. He didn't acknowledge the cheering girls screaming his name from the stands.
He walked down the stairs of Ring Four and marched in a straight, unwavering line directly toward Ring One's sidelines.
