"Why were you two fighting so early in the morning?" Mark continued calmly. "That level of intensity wasn't just casual sparring. You were calling him things like 'shameless hypocrite.' That doesn't sound friendly. Did you two fight about something? Did he act rudely or inappropriately around you? If it is, then tell me. You don't have to worry that he is some imperial prince."
Shang Jiao's face flushed again.
She turned her head to the side, clearly avoiding his gaze. For a few seconds, she said nothing. Then she spoke in a quieter voice.
"It really isn't anything important."
Mark raised an eyebrow but waited.
She hesitated, then continued, her words coming out a little faster. "He commented on my fighting style. Said I relied too much on my staff. Said my growth would stagnate. It annoyed me."
"That alone wouldn't push you this far," Mark replied.
Shang Jiao bit her lip.
