The crowd grew ever larger, and the wide streets around the market square were nearly packed solid.
People jostled shoulder to shoulder, craning their necks in anticipation as they chattered excitedly.
"Haha, the day has finally come."
"You can say that again! I've been so anxious waiting for today, I've barely been able to eat or sleep!"
"I'm the same. I won't lie to you all—for a glimpse of Master Chen's glory, I've been bathing and changing my clothes daily, praying devoutly for him. I haven't even had time to dote on my new concubine."
"Heh! Huang the Fourth, I think you're just worried your silver is going down the drain and you'll have to hand over that concubine to pay your debts!"
"Niu the Third, what nonsense are you spouting? You're completely off the mark! I bet on Master Chen, and it's a guaranteed win!
You're the one who bet so many silver taels on the disciples from the Four Major Sects. Forget a concubine—your legally wedded wife will probably have to remarry."
