The day had finally arrived.
The Black Moon Sect's delegation set out toward the Imperial Capital, where the grand tournament between the empire's sects would take place. Ron, now an Elite Disciple, traveled alongside the sect's strongest participants, including Liu Tian.
The journey was long, spanning several days on flying beasts. As they soared above forests, mountains, and vast rivers, the disciples took this time to discuss their potential opponents.
"I heard the Skyblade Sect's top disciple has already reached the Nascent Soul Realm," one disciple muttered.
"The Crimson Thunder Sect is also bringing a monstrous genius—they say he can fight Grandmaster Realm cultivators!" another added.
Ron remained silent, sitting cross-legged atop his flying beast. Compared to these so-called geniuses, he was in a league of his own.
---
The Imperial City's Might
After days of travel, they finally arrived at the Imperial Capital.
The moment Ron stepped into the grand city, he attracted attention.
Women from noble families whispered and blushed as they passed by. Some even stopped to take another look at his golden eyes and flawless face.
"Who is he? A prince from another kingdom?"
"I don't know, but… he's too handsome! He doesn't look like a normal human…"
Even female cultivators from other sects stole glances at him, unable to resist his charm.
Liu Tian smirked, whispering, "Ron, you're turning heads again."
Ron simply shrugged. "It's not my fault they're too weak to resist."
His indifferent and confident attitude only made him even more irresistible to those watching.
---
A Grand Gathering
The tournament grounds were located inside the Imperial Palace's Martial Arena, an enormous coliseum that could fit tens of thousands of spectators.
Ron and the Black Moon Sect disciples were guided to their designated seating area. From here, he could see representatives from every major sect in the empire.
In the center of it all sat the Imperial Family.
At the highest throne was the Emperor, a man with an imposing presence. But beside him sat a woman who immediately caught Ron's attention.
The Imperial Princess.
She had an elegant aura, her beauty only second to the divine fairies of legends. But what interested Ron wasn't her appearance—it was the way she was staring at him.
For a brief moment, their eyes met.
The Princess's lips curved into a small, intrigued smile.
Ron narrowed his eyes. "Interesting…"
As the tournament's announcement was made, the sects prepared for battle.
What they didn't know was that this tournament wasn't just about choosing the strongest warrior.
The Emperor and Princess were looking for something more.
[To be continued…]
Ron's Progress:
• Cultivation: Qi Refining stage 4
• Swordmanship: Sword user Peak
Scales Unlocked: 2 scales
Techniques
• Heaven crushing slash
• Phantom Moon Slash