Chapter 31: The Arena Measured More Than Skill
The arena floor was still.
The dust had only just settled from the final clash, and Lin Mu stood in its center, untouched.
Across from him, Zhao Wei was on one knee, panting, robe torn across his shoulder. His chest heaved with the effort of keeping upright, his hand braced on the ground. He had fought hard—but it hadn't been enough. Not against Lin Mu.
A ripple of polite applause passed through the crowd.
Lin Mu offered a respectful nod, but didn't smile. His face remained composed, calm, humble.
Zhao Wei pushed himself to his feet, broad frame towering over Lin Mu, even as he wiped blood from the corner of his mouth. He was massive—his chest thick with muscle, his arms like carved stone. His robe clung to his body with sweat, revealing thick veins running down from his shoulders into his forearms.
The crowd watched silently as the two bowed.
"Your talent is unmatched, Lin Mu," Zhao Wei said, voice low and steady. "Truly."
Lin Mu nodded again. "You held your ground. With more control, you'll be difficult for most."
But he wasn't difficult for *him*. Not even close.
Lin Mu turned to leave.