The speaker was none other than Donghuang Yu.
Donghuang Yu was a descendant of the Winged Tribe, the most powerful branch of humanity in ancient times. His handsome features were accentuated by a pair of white wing markings on his forehead, making him stand out in any crowd.
In the capital, he was infamous for his arrogance. Aside from the Five Young Lords, few martial artists could catch his eye. He had once declared: "Only those who can match my movement techniques are worthy of conversation."
Beigong Qingtian's eyes gleamed with hidden delight. He exchanged a glance with the seemingly distressed Beigong Xue.
The pitiful-looking princess peeked at Donghuang Yu with 'grateful' eyes, though inwardly she was thoroughly amused.
Donghuang Yu, receiving this rare glance of appreciation, felt his heart soar. Beigong Xue had never shown them even a hint of warmth before! This was an excellent sign.
The other three young lords clenched their fists in frustration—Donghuang Yu had beaten them to the punch.
Ye Fan turned to Donghuang Yu with a cold smirk. This banquet reeks of schemes. Child's play.
But to prevent the princess from pulling such stunts daily, he might as well put these fools in their place tonight.
"Donghuang Yu speaks truth. The position of Her Highness's master isn't for just anyone." Ye Fan's voice carried across the hall. "At least, before I emerged, none of you here were qualified."
Arrogance.
His words ignited fury in every guest. Even Beigong Qingtian was stunned—this wasn't part of the script! Was Ye Fan so drunk on newfound power that he'd provoke everyone?
Beigong Xue widened her beautiful eyes at Ye Fan, secretly thrilled. Oh, you're digging your own grave! After tonight's humiliation, I'll personally report your disgrace to Father tomorrow!
Hmph! As if someone like you could teach this peerlessly beautiful princess!
"How bold!" Donghuang Yu sneered. "Let's see if your skills match your mouth."
"Ah, Brother Ye has always been... straightforward." Beigong Qingtian interjected with false concern. "I assure you, he doesn't mean to insult anyone. It's not because he's a prince that he speaks so... candidly."
His words fanned the flames.
Ye Fan nearly facepalmed. This third prince really knows how to stir the pot...
"You wish to challenge me?" Ye Fan smiled faintly.
His cultivation progress had been slower than expected. In his past life, he'd been a renowned alchemist—if he could secure funds for rare herbs now, not only could he accelerate his own growth, but also Ye Can and Ye Gui's.
Plus, establishing an intelligence network required resources. Why not profit from these fools tonight?
"Indeed. Unless you're too cowardly?" Donghuang Yu provoked.
"This teaching position is quite valuable." Ye Fan tapped his chin. "If I lose, I resign. If I win... what do I gain? Such a lopsided challenge isn't worth my time."
"Spineless! If you dare not compete, resign voluntarily instead of embarrassing yourself here!"
"I'll resign when hell freezes over." Ye Fan's grin turned razor-sharp. "Want a match? Bring stakes worthy of the princess's tutelage. Or are you here to beg for scraps?"
Donghuang Yu's face darkened. "You insect! Fine—this is the Heavenly Mansion's Pardon Token! It grants one exemption from their strict admission criteria!"
The crowd gasped.
Ye Fan's eyes flashed with recognition. The Heavenly Mansion—one of the Four Great Academies of the Eastern Spirit Realm, towering above mere kingdoms.
Their annual recruitment was nearing. More importantly—within their vaults flowed the Eternal Fallen Heavenly River Water, a treasure his past life's nemesis Ning Hongchen had claimed.
That bastard who stole my artifact and left me for dead... This time, the river's power will be mine.
"Very well." Ye Fan nodded. "If I lose, I'll resign tomorrow. If you lose, the token is mine."
"Splendid!" Beigong Qingtian clapped. "What fortune to witness such a duel! As host, I'll officiate."
"With Your Highness judging, I've no objections." Donghuang Yu hesitated. "But the challenge type... Since it's for instructing Her Highness, all skills must be tested. May I set the terms?"
The token's value had sobered his earlier bravado.
"By all means." Ye Fan waved dismissively.
"Then we'll compete in movement techniques!" Donghuang Yu pointed outside. "His Highness's Martial Pause Lake has training stakes and lotus pads. We'll disrupt each other's footing—whoever touches water loses."
"Marvelous choice!" Beigong Qingtian beamed. "That lake was designed for practicing Three-Inch Steps! Its gravity vortex formation makes movement feel like dragging iron chains. Few youths can cross it without wetting their feet."
The guests exchanged knowing looks. Everyone knew the Donghuang Clan's Treading Snow Without Trace technique made users light as feathers.
Beigong Qingtian's "few youths" was clearly flattery—Donghuang Yu was the only one who could manage it.
As for Ye Fan? A has-been talent turned rabid dog after his Dantian's destruction.
Ding Chunqiu and the others smirked, anticipating his humiliation.
The duelists leaped onto wooden stakes in the lake's center, facing off across the shimmering water.
"Ye Fan." Donghuang Yu's voice dripped scorn. "A traitor who sold his clan for a title. A coward hiding behind borrowed power. That you stand before me today is laughable. Remember—this is the pinnacle of your wretched life."
Vital energy shimmered at his feet as he blurred into afterimages.
"Because today, you face an opponent far beyond your trash-tier existence!"