Chapter 28: The Uninvited Challenger

The atmosphere in the grand arena was electric. The sect competition had reached its climax, with disciples from various sects showcasing their strongest techniques. The crowd erupted in cheers as a fierce duel unfolded between two talented core disciples, each executing dazzling martial arts techniques.

Jiang Cheng, seated in a place of honor, observed the battles with a sharp gaze. His sect's disciples had performed exceptionally well, proving the strength of his teachings. Some of his closest friends had also showcased their prowess, each carving a reputation for themselves.

However, just as the final round was about to begin, an ominous aura swept over the arena. A chilling wind howled through the open battlefield, silencing the excited murmurs of the audience.

Then, a voice rang out, sharp and arrogant.

"This so-called sect competition is a joke. None of you are worthy of being called true cultivators!"

A figure descended from the sky, his long robes fluttering as he landed at the center of the arena. He was a man with piercing eyes, his aura radiating the power of an elite rogue cultivator. Unlike the disciplined disciples of the sects, his presence was wild, unrestrained—like a predator that had been lurking in the darkness, now baring its fangs.

Gasps echoed through the arena as elders and sect masters rose from their seats, their expressions wary.

"Who dares interrupt this sacred event?" one of the senior elders thundered.

The man smirked. "Call me Luo Qingfeng. I have no sect, no master, and yet I surpass you all. You fools waste time with petty competitions while true strength is forged through real battles. I challenge the so-called strongest disciple here. If no one can defeat me, then all of your sects are nothing but a farce!"

Murmurs spread through the audience. Luo Qingfeng's arrogance was infuriating, but his confidence suggested he had the strength to back up his words. Some disciples clenched their fists in frustration, but none dared to step forward immediately.

Jiang Cheng's gaze darkened. He had seen people like this before—rogue cultivators who dismissed the value of sect teachings and only pursued raw power.

One of the sect leaders stepped forward. "This competition is an official event, not some battlefield for your personal amusement. Leave now, or—"

"Or what?" Luo Qingfeng sneered. In a flash, he struck out, sending a powerful shockwave toward the elder. Before the attack could land, another force clashed against it, neutralizing the impact.

All eyes turned to Jiang Cheng, who had blocked the attack with a flick of his sleeve. He stood up from his seat, his expression calm yet sharp like an unsheathed sword.

"You seek a challenge?" Jiang Cheng's voice was steady, but the power behind it sent a shiver through the crowd. "Then I will grant you one."

Luo Qingfeng's eyes glowed with excitement. "Finally, someone worth fighting."

The entire arena fell silent as Jiang Cheng stepped into the battlefield. This was no longer a mere competition; it was a battle of ideals. Sect teachings versus the raw, unrestrained power of a rogue cultivator.

The battle was about to begin.