If the opponent were also a Golden Core Immortal Sprout, then a loss would simply be a loss, and even death would not be something to fear. At the very least, one could leave behind a sharp, witty epitaph. But if the opponent were merely a Foundation Establishment cultivator... what would that be? Writing on one’s tombstone: "Here lies a once-talented Immortal Sprout, perished at the hands of a Foundation Establishment cultivator"? Forget bringing honor to one’s sect or ancestors; one might not even be allowed into the family grave.
In short, they valued their reputations more than their very lives. Even if they won today, what kind of glory would it be for a group of Immortal Sprouts to gang up on a Foundation Establishment cultivator? It would likely turn the very title of "Immortal Sprout" into a laughingstock.
"My lords, we are not Immortal Sprouts; we have no reputation to lose. Shall we go?" The palace guards behind Zhao Kaihe and the others began to speak up one after another. They were unwilling to let Fang Chen and his companion leave just like that—where would the palace’s dignity be?
Chapter 208