Chapter 225: Sudden Quarter Finals? - Cang Yue Vs Retsu

"Little Yue, you all right?" Yun Che asked as they prepared to leave for the day. With the Quarter Finals match announced, people were excited to see the matches for tomorrow.

"Yeah, just a little... nervous," Cang Yue admitted softly.

"Against Ret-chan? You don't mind facing other opponents, but you're nervous about her?" Mio teased with a playful smirk.

"I…" Cang Yue hesitated, unable to deny it. Retsu was indeed on a completely different level.

"Don't worry, Little Yue," Retsu said with a gentle smile. "Onee-san won't go hard on you."

Cang Yue stood quietly, her head slightly bowed, her thoughts swirling like a storm. She might regret what was coming next, but deep down, she knew she had to see it through. The knot of anxiety in her heart wouldn't loosen until she faced this head-on.

Even if Yun Che and the others scolded her later—and she was certain they would—she was prepared to shoulder the consequences. For her, clearing the weight of uncertainty was worth enduring whatever reprimand awaited her.

She inhaled deeply, summoning her courage. "I know I'll probably regret this later… but I can't keep this to myself anymore," she murmured softly, her voice barely audible over the crowd. Her decision had been made, and she would see it through to the end.

Cang Yue sighed, her expression tense. "Retsu-chan… please forgive me for doing this."

"Eh?" Yun Che and the others turned to her in confusion, but before anyone could press further, Ling Wugou's voice echoed through the arena.

"With this, we will conclude… Hold it…!" he paused before continuing, "As requested by Princess Cang Yue, we will hold the second match of the Quarterfinals—Round of Eight—today. The fight between two members of the Blue Wind Imperial Family, Unohana Retsu and Princess Cang Yue, will commence shortly!"

The arena erupted in shock and murmurs. The unexpected announcement left everyone wondering why the princess had requested an early match. Some speculated she needed more time to prepare against the dazzlingly powerful Unohana Retsu.

"Little Yue…" Little Fairy and Chu Yueli murmured in unison as they watched Cang Yue stride toward the arena with a determined expression. The announcement of the match being moved forward had caught everyone off guard, but the gravity of her choice quickly sank in.

Cang Yue's opponent was none other than her fellow Imperial Family member, Unohana Retsu—the woman who had effortlessly overwhelmed Shui Wushuang, a fellow Frozen Cloud Asgard disciple. Shui Wushuang's defeat had been so decisive that it left a lasting impression on everyone who had witnessed it.

Little Fairy and Chu Yueli exchanged worried glances. Little Fairy wanted to approach Cang Yue, to question her decision or perhaps even dissuade her. But they knew her all too well—Cang Yue's resolve was unshakable. The princess of Blue Wind Empire had a fiery determination that refused to back down from any challenge, no matter how daunting.

"She must have her reasons," Chu Yueli said softly, her eyes following Cang Yue's confident steps.

"Indeed. Giving up or conceding without a fight… that's not in her will," Little Fairy replied, though her voice betrayed a hint of unease.

"Please, Little Yue… just don't get hurt…" she murmured under her breath, though she knew that her sister disciple wouldn't be deterred.

Some in the crowd began to speculate that Princess Cang Yue had arranged to hold her match now, thinking it was a strategic move. They whispered among themselves, suggesting that perhaps she believed Retsu had expended a significant amount of energy during her clash with Shui Wushuang earlier.

But Yun Che stood silently, arms crossed, a faint smirk on his lips. He knew better. Retsu's earlier battle had barely taxed her reserves—if anything, she seemed as composed and unfazed as ever. No, this wasn't a calculated move from Cang Yue to exploit a supposed weakness. There had to be a deeper reason behind her decision to push the match forward.

Even Xue Ling and Lin Yueru were surprised, including Mai, Mei and Yuanba himself. Cang Yue arranged for her battle against Unohana Retsu early?

Yun Che turned to her, eyes filled with concern. Even Retsu looked surprised. "Little Yue…"

"I know," Cang Yue interrupted, her voice resolute. "I'm sorry, but I can't wait since I already know how this match will end. I'm no match for Retsu-chan. Against her waterbending alone, I can't hold a candle, let alone her full power. I couldn't even touch the smallest fraction of her strength." She took a deep breath, her determination unshaken. "But I can't simply sleep tonight knowing this. I want to settle it now."

She clenched her fists, her voice unwavering. "I'll bet everything I have on a single strike. Even if it's a losing battle, I need to see where I stand before you two."

Yun Che opened his mouth as if to object, but then closed it, seeing the fire in her eyes. He turned to Retsu and gave a small nod, silently granting his approval.

"Little Yue," Retsu said, her smile warm yet tinged with a quiet intensity. "Very well. Onee-san won't go easy on you."

Cang Yue nodded, her resolve firm. The arrangement was set.

After a short pause, the tournament announcer's voice rang across the arena, "After hearing the consent of both parties, we will proceed with the Quarter Finals battle between two members of the Blue Wind Imperial Family—Unohana Retsu and Princess Cang Yue."

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Quarter Finals – Round of Eight - Second Match

Blue Wind Imperial Family – Cang Yue ------versus------ Blue Wind Imperial Family – Unohana Retsu

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The crowd buzzed with anticipation, their curiosity and excitement at an all-time high. Ling Wugou continued, "Both contestants, please proceed to the stage."

Normally, such requests would be ignored if one of the contestants didn't consent but since both of them agreed, the fight will proceed.

The arena grew silent as two figures gracefully glided toward the stage. Cang Yue walked with a determined expression, her Wadou Ichimonji sword in hand, while Retsu held her signature parasol, spinning it lightly in her hand as if this was just another casual stroll. The sight of the parasol caused ripples of murmurs among the spectators—she wasn't planning to use waterbending?

"Sister Yue…" Chu Yueli murmured under her breath, unable to mask her concern. Standing beside her, Little Fairy sighed softly, her usual calm gaze filled with a trace of worry. "She must have a reason for doing this," she said quietly. Despite their apprehension, they knew Cang Yue's resolve wouldn't be easily swayed.

As the two warriors stood opposite each other, the tension in the air was palpable. Cang Yue's gaze was firm, yet a flicker of nervousness betrayed her inner emotions. Retsu, on the other hand, smiled warmly, spinning her parasol one last time before planting it gently on the stage floor. She tilted her head slightly and spoke softly, her tone laced with both playfulness and respect, "Come, Little Yue. Let's make this a battle worth remembering."

The crowd erupted in cheers, and the stage was set for a match that would leave an indelible mark on the Blue Wind Tournament.

"Yuyun, unlock my true cultivation," Cang Yue requested, her voice calm but resolute.

"Yue'er, you realize this means everyone will finally see just how strong you are," Yuyun cautioned, her tone tinged with concern.

"I don't care," Cang Yue replied, her eyes filled with determination. "I want to face Retsu-chan with everything I have."

"If you're certain," Yuyun relented, her voice steady as she performed the necessary actions to release the seals on Cang Yue's cultivation.

The moment the restraints were lifted, a tremendous burst of energy erupted from Cang Yue, surging into the air like an unrelenting tide. The sheer force of her power rippled through the arena, silencing the crowd and tournament officials alike.

"Grand… Grand Perfection Earth Profound Realm?!" Ling Wugou's voice rang out, filled with astonishment, reverberating across the now-silent arena. Gasps of disbelief erupted from the audience as his words sank in.

All eyes locked onto Cang Yue, who stood calmly with Wadou Ichimonji in hand, her presence radiating an overwhelming sense of confidence and power. Her aura, unmistakable and unyielding, pulsed through the arena, leaving no doubt about the truth of her cultivation level.

"Impossible! She's only 19!" someone in the crowd exclaimed, unable to reconcile her age with the sheer strength she exuded.

"First, Nezuko with her Grand Perfection Sky Profound Realm... and now this?! How could someone her age reach such a level of mastery?" another voice added, the sheer disbelief spreading like wildfire through the stands.

Even the sect masters and elders in the audience, who prided themselves on their calm demeanor, were visibly shaken. Grand Perfection Earth Profound Realm—it was an achievement that seasoned cultivators often couldn't attain even after decades of rigorous training. Yet here was Cang Yue, a mere 19-year-old, standing at this pinnacle of strength with serene composure.

The disbelief only deepened as whispers filled the arena. "She's surpassed Ling Yun entirely," a disciple muttered, comparing her to the prodigy from Heavenly Sword Villa, who was previously hailed as a once-in-a-century genius.

"Big bro... Princess Sis is really stronger than any of us." Ling Jie's voice trembled with awe, his mouth hanging open as he stared at the stage. The sight of Cang Yue standing there, radiating the aura of the Grand Perfection Earth Profound Realm, had shaken him to his core.

Ling Yun, standing beside his younger brother, was equally stunned, his usually calm and confident expression replaced by disbelief. He tried to process what he had just witnessed, but the truth was undeniable. First, it was Nezuko, who had not only caught up to him but surpassed him entirely with her Grand Perfection Sky Profound Realm. And now, Cang Yue—the Princess he had once thought of as someone far below his level—had shattered his expectations.

"How… how is this even possible?" Ling Yun muttered under his breath, his fists clenching unconsciously. The thought that two individuals younger than him had reached levels he could only dream of gnawed at his pride.

Ling Jie, still in shock, couldn't help but laugh nervously. "First Nezuko, now Princess Sis… What is happening here?!"

Ling Yun's lips pressed into a thin line, his gaze fixed on the arena. He wasn't one to be easily discouraged, but the gap in strength was becoming painfully evident. Still, there was a flicker of determination in his eyes.

Ling Jie turned to his brother, his voice quieter now. "Big bro… do you think you could face her now?"

Ling Yun didn't answer immediately. His pride wanted to say yes, but deep down, he knew the truth. "Not yet," he finally admitted, his voice heavy with humility.

The two brothers continued to watch in silence, knowing they were witnessing the rise of a new generation of prodigies—one that would leave even the strongest of their time struggling to keep up.

Little Fairy and Chu Yueli exchanged glances as they knew well of her full power. 

Gong Yuxian's brows furrowed as she sat in silence, contemplating the unfolding spectacle. "A 19-year-old at the Peak Earth Profound Realm... And Nezuko, a mere five-year-old, already at the Peak Sky Profound Realm," she murmured, her voice tinged with a mix of amazement and apprehension. 

The revelation of the younger generation's extraordinary talents left the older cultivators restless. Xia Qingyue's hidden profound strength, Nezuko's unparalleled growth, and now Princess Cang Yue's astonishing abilities painted a clear picture: a new era of cultivation was on the horizon. 

"Is the younger generation beginning to surpass us?" Gong Yuxian wondered aloud, her gaze distant. The gap between the old and new cultivators was becoming painfully evident. Figures like Nezuko, Xia Qingyue, and now Cang Yue had already left their marks as prodigies, their strength dwarfing the achievements of many seasoned masters. 

Even Xue Ling, another young powerhouse, had cemented herself as a throne-level figure in the empire. With the emergence of these talents, it was clear that the old guard's dominance was being threatened. 

"If this trend continues," Gong Yuxian continued, a trace of unease in her voice, "the old generation may soon be left in the dust. The rise of these prodigies heralds a future where age no longer equates to superiority." 

Around her, murmurs of agreement and disbelief rippled through the older cultivators. They couldn't deny the truth: the younger generation wasn't just catching up—they were racing ahead, leaving a legacy that might forever change the balance of power in the empire. 

"The Princess is at Half-Step Sky Profound Realm?! Since when?!" a shocked spectator exclaimed.

Cang Wanhe, seated in the royal box, sighed deeply. Only he, Xue Ling, and Yun Che's closest companions had known the truth about Cang Yue's cultivation. With this revelation, his daughter had cemented herself as one of the most exceptional geniuses in the empire.

Lin Yueru, meanwhile, stared in disbelief, her lips trembling as she whispered to herself, "She was holding back against me… all this time?"

Ling Wugou's expression betrayed his growing unease. First, Heaven's Child Nezuko demonstrated an insurmountable gap. Now, the Imperial Princess revealed power beyond what anyone had imagined.

The arena was abuzz with murmurs, yet one sentiment was shared by all: the Princess was no longer a hidden talent—she was a force to be reckoned with.

Yun Che and his party watched in silence from the seating zone, understanding Cang Yue's determination and knowing full well what the outcome would be. 

"Little Yue…" Yun Che murmured under his breath, concern flickering in his eyes. 

Retsu stood calm and composed, her parasol transforming into a halberd in a fluid motion. She raised it confidently, her voice soft yet firm. "Give me everything you've got, Little Yue." 

Cang Yue gripped her sword tightly. She wasn't naïve. She knew that Retsu's battle intellect, her vast array of techniques, and her sheer power far surpassed her own. To face Retsu with conventional techniques would be futile. Even her waterbending, which Retsu recently refined, would be enough to deal with her. 

Retsu was, without a doubt, a bad matchup. 

But Cang Yue wasn't about to back down. "Retsu-chan," she began, her voice steady despite the enormity of the challenge before her, "even if I go all out, I know I can't defeat you. But I can still give you everything I've got." 

She poured every ounce of her profound energy into her blade, Wadou Ichimonji. Her aura flared, the energy surrounding her sword bursting outward in a dazzling, fiery display. The sheer force of her energy stunned the audience into silence. A full-powered strike from a Half-Step Sky Profound Realm warrior—it was breathtaking and awe-inspiring. 

Retsu remained serene, her halberd steady in her grip. Her energy began to swirl and condense around the weapon, forming an equally dazzling aura, but her expression showed no fear or hesitation. 

"Yue'er…" Xue Ling whispered, her worry evident. Beside her, Cang Wanhe watched with a mixture of pride and unease, while Lin Yueru clasped her hands tightly, silently praying for her friend's safety. 

Despite the odds, Cang Yue's resolve burned bright. "Let's do this, Retsu-chan!" Her eyes glowed faintly red as her Haoshoku no Haki began to manifest, the sheer pressure of her will radiating across the arena, making even the strongest cultivators in the audience uneasy. 

Retsu smiled, her calm unwavering. "Come, Little Yue," she said softly, yet her voice carried across the arena, filled with respect for Cang Yue's bravery. 

The arena erupted into chaos as Retsu and Cang Yue charged forward, their weapons glowing with immense energy. Retsu's halberd radiated a fierce white aura, while Cang Yue's Wadou Ichimonji surged with a vibrant pinkish light, the contrast forming a breathtaking spectacle. 

The clash was immediate and devastating. The sheer force of their energies colliding sent shockwaves through the arena, disintegrating the ground beneath them and cracking the air with bolts of lightning. The tips of their weapons never touched, yet the concentrated emission force coating them created an invisible wall of destructive power that reverberated across the battlefield. 

The audience shielded their eyes from the blinding light and covered their ears against the deafening roar. Those of lower cultivation collapsed under the intense pressure of Cang Yue's Haoshoku no Haki, while even some seasoned cultivators struggled to remain conscious. 

The clash reached its apex as the overwhelming energy shattered the protective barrier around the arena. The shockwave rippled through the crowd, forcing many to avert their gaze and brace themselves against the raw power emanating from the two warriors. 

From above, the clash painted an awe-inspiring scene. Two monumental forces of energy—Retsu's radiant white and Cang Yue's vibrant pink—intertwined and fought for dominance, their meeting point glowing so brightly it rivaled the sun. The sheer intensity of their power created a rippling dome of light and energy that spread across the entire arena, forming cracks in the air itself. 

Even as the energy began to dissipate, its lingering effects were palpable. The air shimmered with residual force, as though the clash had permanently altered the space around them. Wisps of white and pink energy floated like ethereal flames, fading slowly but leaving a tangible tension in the atmosphere. 

The ground bore the marks of their duel—deep gouges, shattered stones, and a profound stillness that seemed to honor the combatants' efforts. Despite the destruction, the focal point of it all—the two warriors—stood unharmed, their contrasting energies still faintly glowing around them, as if refusing to let go of the moment. 

When the energy finally dissipated, the arena was left in ruins. The ground was scorched, and cracks ran deep into the earth. Yet, amidst the destruction, Retsu and Cang Yue stood tall, their weapons still pointed at each other in attacking positions. 

The most remarkable sight, however, was the untouched elegance of Retsu. Her Uchikatsugi hat remained perfectly in place, her battle kimono pristine, a testament to her unmatched composure and control. Cang Yue, though visibly exhausted, stood with equal grace, her determination shining through despite her drained state. 

Retsu was the first to lower her weapon, spinning her halberd gracefully to her side. She offered a small, approving nod to Cang Yue. 

Cang Yue, her legs trembling, began walking toward Retsu weakly, her sword lowered. Each step she took was a testament to her resolve, her willpower driving her forward despite the clear disparity in their strength. 

The crowd fell silent, captivated by the display of honor and resilience from both warriors. 

Clang!

Cang Yue's Wadou Ichimonji fell to the shattered arena floor, its metallic chime echoing as she collapsed against Retsu's bosom. Her breathing was labored, and her body trembled from exhaustion. 

"Like I said…" Cang Yue murmured weakly, her voice barely audible. Every ounce of her strength had been poured into her last attack, leaving her utterly spent. "It's… impossible…" 

"Shhh… There, there…" Retsu whispered softly, her voice like a soothing balm. She sheathed her parasol halberd with a practiced motion and gently embraced Cang Yue, supporting her as she knelt down on the fractured ground. 

Ling Wugou, sensing the conclusion of the battle, raised his hand. "The match between the contenders of the Blue Wind Imperial Family has ended! Unohana Retsu will advance to the Semi Final – Round of Four, taking place the day after tomorrow!" 

The arena was enveloped in stunned silence. The aftermath of their clash was etched into the ruined battlefield, a testament to the ferocity and precision of their duel. Both women had unleashed devastating techniques, yet the disparity in their strength was clear. 

The revelation of Cang Yue's true cultivation level, Peak of the Earth Profound Realm, sent ripples of disbelief through the crowd. It was an achievement that placed her leagues above Ling Yun, the Empire's so-called genius. 

"Even someone at Grand Perfection Earth Profound Realm couldn't defeat her?" a spectator muttered, their voice tinged with awe and unease. 

"If Princess Cang Yue's full power couldn't faze her…" another began, their tone hushed, "…what is Unohana Retsu's true cultivation?" 

The question lingered in the air, unanswered. Retsu's calm, composed demeanor as she cradled her sworn sister belied the depth of her power—a strength that remained an enigma to all who bore witness.

"What is her true power? Could it be matching Qingyue's? It must be..." Gong Yuxian muttered to herself, her voice tinged with a mix of admiration and curiosity. She had to admit, Cang Yue's genius was unparalleled. To have hidden her cultivation behind the facade of a mere True Profound Realm practitioner was no small feat. However, her thoughts lingered more on Unohana Retsu—the enigmatic woman whose true power remained shrouded in mystery. 

Xia Qingyue widened her eyes in disbelief. Even a full-power attack from a Half Step Sky Profound Realm practitioner like Cang Yue couldn't so much as faze Unohana Retsu. The elegance, composure, and overwhelming power that Retsu displayed made it clear why she was unmatched.

Now, with her victory, Retsu advanced to the Semi-Finals effortlessly. The thought of potentially facing her in the finals sent a ripple of unease through Xia Qingyue. If Retsu could overpower someone of Cang Yue's caliber without even revealing the full extent of her abilities, what would it take to stand against her?

"If I won against Xiao Kuanglei tomorrow…" Xia Qingyue murmured to herself, her fingers tightening around her dress. She understood that if the time came to face Retsu, there would be no room for hesitation or half-measures. She might have to reveal her true cultivation and resort to her full power—something she had hoped to avoid for as long as possible.

The Semi-Finals were drawing near, and the shadow of Retsu's dominance loomed over all the remaining contestants. Xia Qingyue knew that if she wanted to stand a chance, she would need more than just her techniques; she would need her full power and possibly, the hidden arts.

Moreover, she will face her as his wife.

"What is the goddess's true power?" Ling Yun growled under his breath, frustration evident in his clenched fists. His cultivation, already overshadowed by Princess Cang Yue's revealed might, left him seething with the realization that Retsu's strength was even farther beyond his grasp. He could no longer entertain any thought of provoking her—not when the gap between them was this vast. 

Around the arena, the participants who had faced defeat at the hands of Cang Yue and Retsu felt a wave of cold sweat run down their spines. The memories of their battles resurfaced, now painted with the realization that neither woman had exerted their full power. 

"They didn't even go all out…" one participant murmured, swallowing hard. 

"All this time, they held back against us…" another added, his voice laced with disbelief. 

The revelation struck a nerve among the crowd. Many remembered the mockery and doubt thrown at Cang Yue and Retsu at the tournament's start, dismissing them as unworthy contenders. Now, the truth of their hidden strength turned the jeers into hushed awe. 

Hiding one's cultivation wasn't against the tournament rules, which required only that participants be between the ages of 16 and 20. The crowd's initial laughter had faded into silence, replaced by the weighty understanding of the immense talent these women possessed. 

"Did I do well?" Cang Yue asked softly, her voice faint as she rested in Retsu's gentle embrace. 

"Yes, you did well, Little Yue," Retsu replied with a tender smile. "You've already surpassed the geniuses of this empire. That alone shows how far you've come." 

Yun Che descended onto the arena his expression proud and reassuring. 

"But... I can't even stand next to you two," Cang Yue murmured, her sadness evident. 

"Silly girl…" Yun Che said with a warm chuckle. "You've been standing with us from the moment you chose to fight by our side." 

"I have?" Cang Yue's eyes widened in surprise. 

"Of course," Yun Che assured her. "Even if your levels seem lower, you're already one of us—our family, our beloved flock. You've been by our side long before you gained this strength." 

Moved by his words, Cang Yue accepted the Ancient Potion Yun Che handed her. As the restorative elixir coursed through her, her energy returned, and she slowly rose to her feet. Around the arena, the crowd erupted into applause, their cheers echoing in celebration of her spirit. 

From the stands, Du Ming and his sect mates erupted into cheers, their voices rising above the cacophony of the crowd like an unwavering fan club. 

Even Little Fairy, usually reserved and composed, found herself clapping her hands in pride for her sworn sister. Her gaze softened as she watched Cang Yue stand tall in the arena, her head held high despite her loss. 

A small tear escaped Little Fairy's eye as she reflected on how far Cang Yue had come. She remembered the meek and hesitant princess she had tied up in the New Moon Profound Palace, a girl full of doubts yet brimming with untapped potential. That same girl now stood as one of the Blue Wind Empire's most remarkable figures, her name etched into the Empire's history.

Here she was, on the summit of the empire, surrounded by the cheers and admiration of thousands. She had given her all, and though the result was not a victory in the traditional sense, it was a triumph of heart and determination. Little Fairy couldn't help but feel immense pride for her sister-in-arms, who had transformed from a timid princess into a shining beacon of strength and resilience.

Yun Che smiled warmly at her. "Did you hear that? You didn't lose. You've won the hearts of your people and us. They're cheering for you because you fought for your family. You may have lost today, but we'll carry on for you." 

He gently grasped her wrist and raised her hand high, signaling her triumph in spirit. The crowd erupted into even wilder cheers, their admiration for the princess who had hidden her strength now overflowing. 

The sight of Cang Yue standing proud despite her loss moved many, including her father, Cang Wanhe, and Qin Wushang. Both shed tears of pride, witnessing her grace and dignity in defeat. 

Cang Yue lost her match, but losing to her sister-in-arms, Unohana Retsu, felt less like a defeat and more like an honor. Standing across from someone so far beyond her current abilities, she understood that this was her limit for now. Yet, she found solace in knowing she had faced Retsu herself—a battle that would forever be etched in her memory. 

Had she been paired against Ling Jie, Ling Yun, or even Xia Yuanba, she might not have needed to unlock her full strength. But here, against Retsu, there was no room for reservation. She had pushed herself to the brink, pouring everything she had into the fight. The outcome didn't matter as much as the journey she had taken to reach this point. 

Cang Yue had already surpassed the geniuses of the empire, carving out her place among them. Making it to the Quarter Finals, the top eight, was a remarkable achievement that brought honor not just to herself but to her family. It was an accomplishment that would be remembered in the history of the Blue Wind Imperial Family. 

She walked off the stage, her heart lighter despite the outcome. She had made her father proud, her big sister proud, and most importantly, she had proven something to herself. Though the battle ended here, Cang Yue felt as though she had won.

It was a loss in the arena, but to her people, it was a victory of spirit and determination—a loss that felt more like a win.

"Yun Che, Retsu… Thank you," Cang Yue said, tears welling in her eyes. "Please… keep your promise. Win this… for us!" 

She turned to Retsu, her lips curling into a small grin. "It's a shame I couldn't even knock your hat off, Retsu." 

"Ufuu… You made it tilt a little," Retsu mused playfully. 

"That's progress!" Cang Yue grinned wider, her confidence returning. "I might have lost to you two, but I don't mind. Losing to family means learning my limits and how to overcome them. But I won't lose to anyone else!" 

Yun Che chuckled. "Tomorrow, you'll face the loser of the first match and the winner of the third and fourth losing opponents to determine the fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth place. I think I already have an idea who's going to win the first match tomorrow, but I know one thing for sure—you'll aim for fifth place." 

Cang Yue nodded firmly, her determination reigniting to fight for the fifth place. It means she has to fight whoever lost the first match tomorrow. Then, the winner of the losing opponents from the third and fourth match. "Whoever it is… I won't lose ever again!" 

"Big sis, I guess I lost," Cang Yue said softly, her voice tinged with sadness as she made her way back to the Imperial Family seating zone. 

Before she could sit, Xue Ling pulled her into a comforting hug. "You did incredibly well," Xue Ling said gently. "You've already stepped into the top eight on your own. Don't underestimate yourself. You've earned this." 

Cang Yue, who once timidly envied the unreachable geniuses, now stood among them—beside Yun Che and Retsu. And one day, Xue Ling knew, she would surpass even them. 

"You still have a chance, Yue'er," Xue Ling encouraged. "Whoever loses tomorrow will be your opponent to claim the fifth place. If you can't enter the top four, then claim the top five. Show them your strength." 

Cang Yue nodded firmly. "I will," she replied, determination flickering in her eyes. 

"Yue'er, why didn't you tell me you were this strong?" Lin Yueru asked, still in disbelief. 

"Surprises, Rue'er," Cang Yue said with a small grin, the light teasing masking the pain of her earlier loss. 

Though Cang Yue had lost this match, it was a loss she could accept with grace. But that didn't mean she would give up on claiming fifth place. Whatever came next, she would be ready. 

"One more thing…" Yun Che's voice turned cold, his expression darkening. The sudden shift in his demeanor made everyone, except for Mio, Nemu, and Retsu, instinctively take a step back. Even Lin Yueru, who was usually quick to speak, held her tongue.

"Y-Yes…?" Cang Yue stammered, her face paling.

Flick! 

"Oww…" Cang Yue winced, rubbing her forehead where Yun Che had flicked her.

His voice carried a mix of annoyance and concern as he scolded her. "Before doing something like this, make sure to discuss or inform us. Acting on your own, without consulting anyone—again," he stressed, reminding her of her impulsive actions during the rebellion, "is reckless. Will it kill you to ask Retsu's consent before pulling something like this? Do you want me to scold you every time?"

"I-I'm sowwy… I won't do it again…" Cang Yue mumbled, bowing her head like a chastised child. She realized how badly she'd messed up by not telling them beforehand.

"Ufufu… arranging something behind Onee-san's back, hmm?" Retsu's soft laugh carried a teasing yet dangerous undertone. "Shall I give you a hard spanking as punishment?" she added with a playful glint in her eyes.

"No! Please don't! I'm sorry! I won't do it again! Please don't punish me!" Cang Yue pleaded, bowing repeatedly, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

"Fine…" Yun Che sighed, shaking his head. "We'll let you off this time."

"This time," Retsu echoed with a mischievous smile, emphasizing her words in a way that sent a playful shiver down Cang Yue's spine.

"I-I've learned my lesson!" Cang Yue promised, bowing again and again.

Xue Ling let out a sigh, exasperated yet fond. This girl certainly had a knack for acting without thinking. Even Lin Yueru couldn't hold back a light scolding, though her tone was more teasing than harsh.

In the end, the third day of the final rounds came to a close, and Retsu was granted a much-deserved day off as a result of the rearranged match—a small silver lining to the chaos.

As for Yun Che, his expression grew thoughtful. He quietly decided to take Retsu and Mio with him to deal with the Wu Clan later for their brazen actions against them. But for now, peace settled over the group, if only briefly.