Amidst a chorus of discussion, Shangguan Yangyao slowly ascended the steps. The Haoyang Robe he wore, made of special material, trailed on the ground, untouched by a single speck of dust.
Standing opposite him on the arena was a Turkic youth. He had a grim expression and a sturdy build, wielding a broad-bladed saber. A necklace of Wolf Tooth beast bones adorned his neck, an exaggeratedly long bow was slung across his back, and a quiver was tied at his waist.
The Turkic youth thumped his chest with his fist and said coldly, "Ashide Fuxiao."
"Shangguan Yangyao."
The disciple of the Holy Rite Council offered a gentle smile. His right hand formed a fist, grasping his left thumb. With both hands positioned before his left shoulder, he traced a diagonal slash downwards, performing a Taihao Mountain salute. This simple motion once again stirred a wave of chatter from the crowd below.
