Li, Tao, and Anuar observed from their less privileged position, their initial envy transforming into something more complex… a vicarious pride and dawning realization of just how far their friend had climbed.
"Brother," Li murmured, watching another defeated noble being helped away by his embarrassed family, "we're never going to have these kinds of problems."
"Speak for yourself," Tao responded, though his voice carried more hope than conviction. "As soon as I get into Gold Rank thanks to Ren's cultivation methods, surely... Ah, look, here comes another noble..."
This one was different. Younger, probably fourteen like Ren, but clearly more "brave" than most… or perhaps just more foolish. His face was set with boldness that bordered on recklessness.
