As the gates of the Phoenix Cry Empire loomed before them, Xue Mor led her group through the grand entrance, her Sunfire Courser kicking up embers beneath its paws. The towering spires of the imperial palace shone like molten gold under the sun, reflecting the power of the Phoenix Cry bloodline.
The moment they passed through the gates, they were met with an imperial summons.
Her father was waiting.
—
The Emperor's Surprise
Inside the great hall, Huo Feng, the Phoenix Cry Emperor, stood at the center of his throne room, his burning gaze locked onto his daughter and the two warriors beside her. His red hair, cascading past his shoulders, flickered under the golden lanterns, and his powerful presence filled the chamber.
He had expected his daughter to return with a response from the two clans. Not a complete alliance.
He observed Raikai and Shinryu, taking in their presence. Both stood tall and unwavering, their very existence exuding strength. A dragon and a tiger standing beside his daughter.
"You have done what no one else believed possible." His voice, calm yet powerful, resonated through the chamber. "The Phoenix Cry Empire acknowledges this alliance. Today, we welcome the Ancient White Tiger Clan and the Azure Dragon Clan as partners in strength."
Xue Mor bowed her head humbly, knowing this moment was a turning point in history.
Her father continued, "This achievement belongs to my daughter, Xue Mor. She has accomplished what was thought impossible."
A murmur rippled through the hall. Some were impressed. Others, resentful.
—
The Arrogance of the Phoenix Cry Prodigies
As Raikai and Shinryu were introduced to the young prodigies of Phoenix Cry, the contrast in demeanor became immediately clear.
Unlike Xue Mor, who carried herself with reserved confidence, her fellow clan members were filled with arrogance.
Their gazes were haughty, their smirks filled with challenge. They saw the two outsiders as inferior, despite their prestigious lineages.
"A White Tiger and an Azure Dragon?" one of the Phoenix Cry elites sneered. "I expected more."
Another scoffed, arms crossed. "I wonder if they can even compare to us."
It didn't take long before challenges were issued.
Raikai cracked his neck, his muscles tensing with anticipation. "You lot love to talk. Let's see if you can back it up."
Shinryu simply smirked, his silver hair glinting under the hall's light. "I was wondering when someone would finally say something interesting."
But before anything could happen—
—
The Emperor's Declaration
Huo Feng raised a hand, silencing the room. His sharp golden eyes flickered between the warriors before he made his decision.
"Since our honored guests are eager to prove themselves, and my own Phoenix Cry prodigies wish to test their strength, I will grant you a stage."
The hall fell silent.
The Emperor's voice rang with authority. "A team battle. Raikai, Shinryu, and Xue Mor… against the eight strongest of the Phoenix Cry younger generation."
A ripple of shock and excitement spread across the room.
Xue Mor stepped forward. "I accept."
Raikai grinned, his serpent-like pupils flashing. "Eight versus three? Sounds fun."
Shinryu, ever calm, nodded. "Let's get this over with."
The Phoenix Cry prodigies looked offended.
How dare these outsiders not only accept but act as if they could win?
With the match set, the imperial battle stage was prepared. The Phoenix Cry Empire would soon witness the strength of the White Tiger, the Azure Dragon, and the Frost Phoenix standing as one.