The competition arena was shrouded in a terrible silence, like an invisible monster that had swallowed all muttered words, silently oppressive. The candlelight flowed like molten gold, filling the slates like fine wine, resplendent in its overflow.
Fang Hong bowed his head, his fine hair hanging from the young man's forehead, reflecting the interwoven light. He gently swept his hand over the golden shell, a soft click echoing as the dial spiraled back into place under the gilded leaves.
He did not glance at the Immortal Worm again, turned, swept his robe aside, and stepped down from the arena.
Tianlan screamed, ran over and hugged him loudly, "Heavens, Brother Ade, you did it! How did you manage that, it was incredible, just like that!"
This made Fang Hong terribly nervous, he quickly hushed her, making a shushing gesture and giving her a look.
