The pale light of dawn broke over the basalt battlements of Rust Hall, casting long, sharp shadows across the gravel pit arena that occupied the center of the service courtyard.
Scores of soot-stained laborers and junior overseers crowded around the ring, eager to watch the opening match of the preliminary sparring tournament.
Master Chai stood at the edge of the pit holding a heavy leather referee tally, his scarred face twisted into a cynical grin as he struck his iron link against a bronze gong to signal the start of the session.
"First bracket," Master Chai barked across the yard. "Ye Mo of the coal crew versus Lu Peng of the casting squad. Step into the circle and let us see if the new blood can stand for ten breaths."
Ye Chen walked out from the shadow of the portico, wearing his
