Chapter 22: Storms on the Horizon
"When a dragon rises, the world trembles."
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The First Move—A Gathering of Enemies
The cultivation world was in turmoil.
From the Great Immortal Sects to the Martial Dynasties, every powerful force was now focused on one name—Xiao Tian.
It didn't take long for the first response to arrive.
In a hidden chamber within the Thousand Ghost Sect, a group of shadowy figures sat in silence.
At the center was Ghost Lord Xuan Ye, his skeletal mask glowing with eerie purple light.
A hooded assassin spoke. "Sect Master, the Martial Emperor has put a bounty on Xiao Tian's head. If we move fast—"
"No." Xuan Ye's voice was cold. "If even the heavens failed to kill him, do you think a few assassins can?"
He leaned forward, his tone sharp. "We won't attack… yet. But we will test him."
The shadows in the room shuddered—a sign that something dark was about to be unleashed.
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The Battle Invitation—A Trap is Set
Two days later, a messenger arrived at the Heavenly Cloud Sect.
A young man in crimson robes knelt before the sect gates, his voice loud and clear.
"By the command of the Scarlet Moon Sect, we challenge your Sect Master, Xiao Tian, to a battle!"
The moment the words left his mouth, the surrounding disciples burst into anger.
"The Scarlet Moon Sect? Those cowards wouldn't dare challenge us before!"
"They're testing our Sect Master's strength!"
Inside the main hall, Xiao Tian read the battle invitation and chuckled.
"A challenge?" His golden eyes flashed. "They want to see if I'm truly as powerful as the rumors say."
Tianxu, the mysterious celestial, stroked his beard. "And if you refuse, they will say you are afraid."
Lin Qingxue clenched her sword. "Sect Master, let me take care of this."
Xiao Tian shook his head. "No need."
He stood up, his aura causing the very air to tremble.
"I will go myself."
The disciples roared in excitement.
The world had begun to move against him—
And he was more than ready.