The Martial Exchange Arena was hidden beneath the city.
Not secret—just tucked away.
A broad underground ring carved into stone, reinforced with thick pillars and layered formations meant to withstand ordinary cultivators beating each other senseless. The air was thick with sweat, dust, and anticipation. Torches lined the walls. Spectators packed the upper balconies, leaning forward with eager eyes.
This place wasn't about honor.
It was about release.
At the registration desk, two figures stood shoulder to shoulder.
Wang Tian rolled his neck once, then cracked his knuckles loudly.
"So," he said, glancing sideways, "how many rounds before I embarrass you?"
Luo Chen didn't look at him.
He calmly signed his name, handed over the registration token, and replied without emotion.
"Depends. How long can you stay conscious?"
Wang Tian scoffed. "Big words from someone who's never beaten me."
Luo Chen finally turned his head.
Their eyes met.
