As Lu Cheng's figure disappeared beyond the edge of the ruined arena, silence held for just a moment longer—then the crowd erupted once more, the air filled with shouts, chants, and the pounding of fists against wooden railings.
"Tian Lei! Tian Lei!"
The name rolled like thunder, shaking the sect grounds themselves.
Tian Lei stood in the middle of it all, his breathing ragged, his arms trembling. The jade dust settled around him, glittering faintly under the sun. He didn't raise his hands in victory, didn't boast, didn't smile. Instead, he bowed—just slightly—toward the path Lu Cheng had taken, honoring his opponent.
That single gesture quieted many voices. For a heartbeat, respect drowned out the frenzy of victory.
