The answer to the question is b. I hope this helped you! :)
I believe the correct answer is practices.
The entire paragraph is describing a practice which is quite common for this culture group. The practice is that of a competition where the emperor is present. There are no particular attitudes, values, or goals presented in the excerpt.
Explanation:
There are many words to describe the condition asked in the question. Some of the words used to describe "to pay close attention to details and ask questions." are meticulous, punctilious, and scrupulous. Thoroughness. is also used for detailed study.
Abba abba but I could be wrong