The Emperor’s Feast

The Phoenix Cry Palace shimmered under the warm glow of lanterns, their golden light casting flickering shadows over the vast banquet hall. Tables overflowed with exotic delicacies, fragrant wines, and spirit-infused meats meant to replenish the warriors after their grueling battle.

At the head of the hall, Huo Feng, the Phoenix Cry Emperor, raised his cup, his booming voice filling the chamber.

"Tonight, we celebrate not just victory but a new era! My daughter, Xue Mor, has accomplished the impossible—uniting three mighty bloodlines!" His sharp gaze swept across the room, stopping on the three young warriors. "And in doing so, she has proven that our younger generation has truly risen!"

A thunderous cheer erupted as nobles and warriors alike lifted their goblets in respect.

The Eight Prodigies Approach

As the feast continued, Huo Jian, Yan Xifeng, and the other Phoenix Cry prodigies cautiously approached the trio. Despite their earlier defeat, there was no resentment in their eyes—only admiration.

Huo Jian, his molten gauntlets resting at his side, gave a respectful nod.

"I won't deny it… You three were stronger. But that just means we need to grow stronger, too."

Raikai smirked, crossing his arms.

"Good. There's no point in fighting weaklings."

A brief silence fell between them before Yan Xifeng spoke up, glancing at Shinryu.

"That ability of yours—your Gravity Field—it's terrifying."

Shinryu took a sip of his wine, eyes calm.

"It should be. It forces absolute control over the battlefield."

Zhao Hui leaned forward, intrigued.

"So… does that mean no one can compete with you?"

A small chuckle escaped Shinryu's lips as he shook his head.

"Not entirely. The closest person who can withstand my Gravity Field…"

His golden eyes shifted toward Raikai.

"Would be him."

The Weight of Gravity vs. The Strength of the Dragon

The Phoenix prodigies turned toward Raikai, surprised.

Huo Ren raised an eyebrow.

"Because of his raw power?"

Shinryu nodded.

"Exactly. Gravity affects everything, but the Azure Dragon Clan thrives under pressure. Raikai's body is naturally built to resist force. He can move even when others collapse."

Raikai scoffed, downing his drink.

"If your Gravity Field is absolute control, then my strength is absolute defiance."

The Phoenix Cry warriors exchanged glances, suddenly understanding why the battle had felt so one-sided.

Yan Feiyan smirked.

"Then… in a one-on-one battle, who wins?"

Shinryu didn't hesitate.

"Me."

The room went quiet for a second before Xue Mor burst into laughter.

"Oh? But I remember winning against you in a duel, Shinryu."

The prodigies turned toward her, eyes widening.

Huo Liang blinked.

"Wait… Xue Mor beat you?!"

Shinryu sighed, placing a hand on his temple.

"She's not wrong."

Xue Mor grinned mischievously, twirling a cup of wine in her hands.

"Of course, what he won't tell you is that he held back his Gravity Field during our fight."

The Phoenix prodigies laughed, while Shinryu gave Xue Mor a side glance.

"If I hadn't, you wouldn't be laughing now."

"Maybe." She smirked, taking a sip. "But a victory is a victory."

Raikai chuckled.

"Next time, don't hold back. I want to see the full power of that ability."

Shinryu smirked.

"You'll regret asking that."

As the night carried on, the rivalry between the three became clear, but so did their bond.

Though they had come from different clans, their paths had now intertwined—destined for something far greater.