Book 2 Chapter 17: Shadows of Radiant Sky

The streets of Radiant Sky City pulsed with life as Jiang Chen and Lei Qian stepped out from the arena. Though the city appeared vibrant, with bustling markets and towering crystalline spires, Jiang Chen couldn't shake the feeling of unseen eyes watching their every move.

"We need to tread carefully here," Jiang Chen said, his voice low.

Lei Qian nodded. "This place is a melting pot of ambition. Everyone here is striving for power, and that makes them dangerous."

Their goal was clear: secure a foothold in the city, gather intelligence about the Ascended Plane, and prepare for the next phase of their journey. But Radiant Sky City was no ordinary place, and even the smallest misstep could prove fatal.

The Crimson Pavilion

After wandering through the bustling streets, they found themselves outside the Crimson Pavilion, a sprawling inn and gathering place for travelers and mercenaries. Its exterior was adorned with banners depicting fierce beasts, and the sounds of laughter and clashing weapons spilled out from within.

"This is as good a place as any to start," Jiang Chen said, pushing open the heavy wooden doors.

Inside, the atmosphere was thick with tension and camaraderie. Warriors from across the realms drank, argued, and sparred in open courtyards. The air buzzed with conversations about treasures, rivalries, and opportunities.

As they approached the counter, a sharp-eyed woman with silver hair greeted them. Her aura was calm but commanding, and Jiang Chen could tell she wasn't someone to be trifled with.

"Newcomers, are you?" she asked, her voice smooth. "I'm Yara, the proprietor of this establishment. What brings you to the Crimson Pavilion?"

"Information and allies," Jiang Chen replied. "We're looking to understand the city and the challenges ahead."

Yara's lips curved into a faint smile. "Smart. Radiant Sky City isn't kind to the naive. But information comes at a price. Are you willing to pay?"

Jiang Chen slid a small pouch of spiritual stones onto the counter. Yara's eyes flicked to the payment before she nodded.

"Fair enough," she said. "There's a tournament in three days—the Celestial Contest. It's open to anyone who thinks they have the strength to compete. The winner gains not only recognition but also access to the Sky Vault, a treasure trove said to contain artifacts from the ancient era."

Lei Qian's eyes gleamed. "That sounds like exactly what we need."

Yara chuckled. "It won't be easy. The city's best fighters will be there, and the contest is as much about cunning as it is about power."

Jiang Chen nodded. "Where do we sign up?"

Yara gestured to a board near the entrance. "Add your names there. But be warned—entering means you'll be watched. Rivals won't wait until the contest to try and eliminate the competition."

The First Encounter

After registering, Jiang Chen and Lei Qian left the pavilion, heading toward the market district to prepare. But their progress was halted as a group of warriors blocked their path. The leader, a tall man with a jagged scar across his face, smirked as he approached.

"New blood, eh? The contest isn't for weaklings," he sneered. "Why don't you save yourselves the humiliation and step aside?"

Jiang Chen's eyes narrowed. "We don't have time for petty posturing. Move."

The scarred man's smirk faded, replaced by a scowl. "You've got a sharp tongue. Let's see if your skills match."

Without warning, he lunged, his blade aimed directly at Jiang Chen. The attack was swift, but Jiang Chen was faster. Drawing his own weapon, he deflected the strike and countered with a precise blow that forced the man back.

"You'll regret that," the man growled, motioning for his companions to join the fray.

Lei Qian stepped forward, his spear spinning in a graceful arc. "If you're looking for a fight, we'll oblige."

The battle was intense, but it was clear that Jiang Chen and Lei Qian were on a different level. Their coordination and skill overwhelmed the attackers, who were forced to retreat after suffering several injuries.

"This isn't over," the scarred man spat before disappearing into the crowd.

Preparation and Reflection

Back at their temporary lodging, Jiang Chen and Lei Qian discussed their next steps.

"The contest is more than just a competition," Jiang Chen said. "It's a stage for alliances and rivalries. We'll need to be vigilant."

Lei Qian nodded. "And we need to make a statement. If we're going to survive in this city, we have to show that we're not to be underestimated."

Jiang Chen leaned back, his gaze thoughtful. "The Ascended Plane isn't just about strength. It's about navigating the complexities of power and influence. We'll need more than just our skills to succeed here."

As the moon rose over Radiant Sky City, the two prepared for the challenges ahead, knowing that the Celestial Contest would be their first true test in this dangerous new realm.