198. Kunlun

The fragrance of the Spiritual Tea was invigorating, subconsciously intoxicating to one who partook of its essence.

Yet Lu Li and Xiao Cha, who drank it daily, were composed at the moment, showing no signs of impropriety.

Witnessing this, Xia Weiyun and Nan Jiping recalled the intelligence that described this young man as being from a wealthy overseas family—a claim that now seemed to hold truth.

Nan Jiping served more tea to the two guests, saying,

"My young friend, do you know that this public martial arts competition is a common ruse by the Chuyun people?

Aside from Jinmen, Hu State, Guang Sui... all the major trading ports host such events.

The aim is to defeat Shen Zhou Martial Artists in front of a large audience, promoting 'Bloodline Theory,' asserting the superiority of Chuyun blood, while disparaging our own lineage."

Lu Li nodded and said, "It's nothing more than a battle of perceptions."

"A battle of perceptions... You're right," sighed Nan Jiping.