The next morning, the entire Azure Sky Sect buzzed with tension.
Banners fluttered in the mountain wind, and the giant arena below was surrounded by thousands of cultivators from every sect across the region.
Li Ming stood beside his team—Lan Yue, Bai Guo, Wu Jian, and Xue Yan.
Their robes glimmered with Azure Sky's emblem, sharp and proud under the sun.
He clenched his fists. So this is it. The real tournament.
From across the arena, the Crimson Blade Sect marched in—five warriors clad in red armor, their leader radiating killing intent like fire itself.
Bai Guo muttered under his breath, "They look like they eat swords for breakfast."
Lan Yue's eyes never left their opponents. "Stay sharp. Remember the plan—Wu Jian and I take the front. Li Ming, support from the center. Xue Yan and Bai Guo, defense and formation."
Li Ming nodded, heart pounding. His cultivation energy hummed quietly inside him—eighth level of Foundation Building, sharp and focused.
