Published: February 26, 2025
“Oh?” Helian Mengde frowned slightly and asked, “What is it?”
Qi Kong took a deep breath and continued, “I wish to challenge the rules of this competition. I believe that true strength should not only be measured by martial prowess but also by the heart and intention behind it.”
A murmur spread throughout the spectators gathered in the Divine Pavilion. Some were intrigued, while others showed signs of disapproval.
Helian Mengde raised an eyebrow, clearly interested in Qi Kong's proposition. “Go on,” he prompted.
Qi Kong straightened his posture and declared, “I propose that the winner of this challenge be determined not just by strength in battle, but also by the ability to win the heart of the one being courted.”
Gasps filled the air as people processed his words. This was a bold move, challenging the very foundation of the challenge for marriage.
Tan Yun, who had been quietly observing the situation, felt a surge of admiration for Qi Kong's courage. It was clear that he valued more than just combat skills; he was advocating for sincerity and genuine connection.
Helian Mengde pondered for a moment before responding, “Interesting. You suggest that love and intention should play a role in this battle for hearts?”
“Yes,” Qi Kong affirmed, his voice resolute. “Winning someone's affection requires more than just strength; it requires understanding, empathy, and a willingness to connect on a deeper level.”
The atmosphere in the Divine Pavilion shifted as the audience began to discuss this new approach.
Helian Mengde stroked his chin thoughtfully, weighing the implications of this proposition. Finally, he nodded, “Very well. If the other participants agree, we shall incorporate this into the challenge. However, the outcome will still depend on the combat skills displayed during the battles.”
As whispers filled the space, Tan Yun felt a sense of hope. Perhaps this challenge could lead to a more meaningful connection between the competitors and the one they sought to win over.
“Who among the participants accepts this condition?” Helian Mengde asked, looking around the room.
One by one, the participants began to raise their hands, signaling their approval of Qi Kong's proposal. Tan Yun joined in, feeling a sense of unity in this new direction.
“Then let the challenge commence!” Helian Mengde proclaimed, his voice echoing through the Divine Pavilion as excitement filled the air.
With the stage set for a battle that would test more than just martial skills, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation.
Qi Kong replied, "Reporting to the Great Offering, I have a long-standing feud with Xiao Zhang. Today, I challenge him to a life-and-death battle!"
This statement was like a heavy bomb dropped into the crowd:
"Heavens, did I hear that correctly? Qi Kong has issued a life-and-death challenge to Xiao Zhang!"
"Yes! Do you think Xiao Zhang will accept?"
"Probably not."
"What do you mean probably? In my opinion, Xiao Zhang would definitely not agree!"
"…"
"Silence!" After Helian Mengde quieted the crowd, he looked at Qi Kong and asked, "What did you say? You want to initiate a life-and-death battle?"
"Yes, Great Offering." As soon as Qi Kong finished speaking, Qi Long suddenly stood up, looking down at Qi Kong, and sent a sound transmission, "Kong’er, you cannot! If you are not a match for Xiao Zhang, you will die!"
"Father, rest assured, I will definitely kill him." Qi Kong replied through sound transmission.
"I still disagree!" Qi Long's voice was stern as he conveyed, "Kong’er, you are the hope of our Qi family. I absolutely cannot allow anything to happen to you."
"Father, I'm sorry, but I have no choice this time." Qi Kong sent a message, "Back then, I sent someone to kill Xiao Zhang in the Heaven Devouring Divine Tomb. He used this matter to blackmail me into proposing a life-and-death duel. If I don’t propose, he will expose this matter, and I would face the same fate."
"Father, don’t worry. I’m confident that my strength is slightly better than Lu Chen’s, and I will definitely tear Xiao Zhang to pieces!"