Lu Chen stood silently in the center of the arena, the echo of Wing Shi's confession still lingering in the air like a spark in dry grass.
So this is the influence of the imperial bloodline… he thought, glancing toward the nobles seated high in the pavilion. One public appearance, and already families are lining up to win my favor. Even willing to offer their daughters without battle…
A faint smile tugged at his lips. His gaze drifted back to Wing Shi, who stood before him, her face flushed but determined, eyes shimmering like morning dew. Her beauty was undeniable—gentle brows, flawless jade-like skin, a proud yet elegant figure. Every curve was a testament to noble upbringing and cultivation.
He stepped forward, his voice deep and composed. "Wing Shi, since you admire me, since you are willing to give up your victory and offer your heart… are you willing to become my royal concubine?"
The arena gasped.
Wing Shi's face bloomed with joy. "Yes, Young Master Lu Chen. I am willing."
Without hesitation, Lu Chen summoned a shimmer of light. A storage ring flickered on his finger as he drew out a gleaming sixth-level weapon—a slender blade carved with dragon etchings—and a luminous sixth-level elixir glowing with spiritual energy.
He placed both in her hands. "These are my gifts to you. A token of your loyalty… and your new identity."
The crowd exploded with noise.
"He's giving away sixth-level weapons and elixirs like cabbage and grass!"
"This is the power of the imperial family… terrifying!"
"The Wing family's fortune just changed today!"
Girls in the crowd screamed with excitement, some even rising to their feet.
"Young Master Lu Chen! I love you too!"
"Take me as your concubine, please!"
Wing Shi clutched the gifts tightly, her hands trembling. Her voice was soft, almost breathless. "Thank you, Young Master. I will never forget your grace."
Lu Chen nodded. "From this moment, you are my royal concubine. You carry my name now—walk proudly."
In the Wing family seats, Patriarch Wing Lin sat stunned. His eyes locked on the sixth-level treasures his daughter now held.
This… this is not just wealth. This is a foothold into the imperial circle…
He turned to the other patriarchs—Wang, Xi, and Xu. Their expressions were sour, clearly realizing that the Wing family's status had just soared beyond theirs in one move.
A single gesture from Lu Chen had shifted the balance of power.