Chapter 31 – before the semifinal

Chapter 31 – before the semifinal

The final two quarterfinal matches played out beneath the golden glow of the arena's spirit lanterns, each clash stirring roars from the crowd. Flux sat quietly alone, his gaze steady and focused. He wasn't merely spectating—he was studying. Every technique, every movement, every flaw revealed in battle was another thread woven into his understanding.

By the time the dust settled, only four names remained.

Flux.

Selina.

Rai.

Xavier—who, notably, hadn't fought once across three rounds. He got all the black token from the draw.

An elder stepped onto the central platform, his long sleeves drifting like clouds, his voice amplified by a spiritual technique that echoed clearly across the stands.

"You four have reached the final climb," he began, his gaze sweeping across the remaining contestants. "Tomorrow will mark the last trial before the final."

The crowd quieted, as if caught in a spell of reverent anticipation.

"Rest well tonight. Reflect, cultivate, and prepare. Whether you reach the finals or not, you've earned the eyes and respect of many."

A beat of silence, then a faint smile from the elder. "Good luck."

Two matchups appeared on a glowing jade screen suspended in the air:

Flux vs. Selina.

Rai vs. Xavier.

With murmurs rising across the arena, the elder gestured. The defensive formation pillars lowered with a soft hum, signaling the end of the day's events.

Flux left through the eastern corridor. Afternoon light spilled between tall pavilions, casting long shadows across stone walkways. As he passed a plaza near the vendor district, a familiar voice rang out.

"Yo! Mr. Shady Guy!"

Ryo stood casually against a pillar, lazily tossing roasted seeds into his mouth. His robes were wrinkled, hair half-combed, and he looked like he'd just woken from a nap on a rooftop.

"Flux, that match earlier—man, you looked like a storm spirit possessed you. People were going crazy."

Flux gave a quiet exhale. "I just had a decent fight."

Ryo pushed off the pillar with a grin. "Decent? Please. You've got half the city convinced you're some mysterious rogue cultivator sent from the heavens to humble the arrogant. The rumors this time? Absolutely wild."

Flux raised an eyebrow. "Rumors again?"

"Oh, yeah. Hidden prince from a lost sect. Ancient sword spirit in disguise. A rogue demigod looking for reincarnated lovers. My favorite so far? That you were cursed never to speak more than five words per sentence."

Flux gave him a long look. "You didn't encourage any of that, right?"

Ryo smiled innocently. "Oh, I told them everything. How you never take off that weird hat combo. How you eat like a starving demon beast ."

Flux sighed, but a faint smile tugged at his lips.

They started walking together toward the heart of the city.

"So… who's your opponent tomorrow?" Ryo asked.

"Selina," Flux said.

"The same one who gave me a light concussion?" Ryo groaned.

"Still true."

"You really know how to reopen wounds, man."

They kept walking until the scent of grilled meat and spicy broth pulled them into a cozy restaurant nestled between two tea houses. They sat at a quiet corner table. As usual, Flux ordered enough for a family of five.

Ryo watched the plates arrive with a mixture of awe and resignation. "Seriously. You're like a handsome ghost who eats like a glutton demon."

Flux bit into a crisp dumpling. "Energy's important. Tomorrow's match won't be easy."

Ryo leaned forward. "You know, you confuse the hell out of people."

"How so?"

"You look like one of those cold sword cultivators with a tragic backstory and a dead fiancée. Then you insult your friends without blinking, stuff your face with dumplings, and act like you're not in the middle of a high-stakes tournament."

Flux poured tea with steady hands. "Should I act more tragic?"

"Please don't. This city's already on edge from all the brooding geniuses. One more and the heavens might weep."

Flux smirked. "Eat your food."

---

After the meal, they stepped into the cool evening. Lanterns had bloomed across the streets, casting warm glows across tiled walkways and tiled roofs.

"I'm heading back to the inn," Flux said.

Ryo looked disappointed. "Already? We could still hit the music pavilion—one of the dancers definitely asked if I was available."

Flux gave him a sidelong glance. "Someone invited you? 'That poor disciple who got smoked in round two'?"

Ryo clutched his chest. "Not again! My shame echoes into eternity!"

Flux turned. "Rest well, Ryo."

"Yeah, yeah," Ryo waved him off. "Good luck tomorrow, Main Character."

Flux paused mid-step. "You actually read books?"

"Huh? Of course I do!" Ryo puffed up proudly.

"Didn't think your brain had recovered yet."

"OHHHHH! That's it! I'm leaving!"

---

Back at the inn, Flux returned to his quiet second-floor room. He lit a single spirit candle, sat cross-legged by the window, and placed three spirit stones in a triangle before him.

The world fell still.

His breath slowed.

Spirit energy flowed inward like drifting stardust, gentle but steady.

Tomorrow, he would face Selina.

So tonight—he would be at his peak.

---

Morning broke with crisp wind and golden light spilling across rooftops. The streets buzzed with excitement as spectators rushed toward the arena and vendors hawked snacks and charms.

Flux stepped out, sword on his back, only to find Ryo waiting with a half-eaten meat bun.

"Yo. Heading to the waiting area?"

Flux nodded.

Ryo took a bite. "Man, I hope you lose. Just once. So I can finally get revenge."

Flux adjusted the sword strap. "Thanks. Don't worry—I'm not planning to fry my brain."

"BAH! Enough already!" Ryo groaned and turned toward the stands. "Good luck, weird swordsman. Don't hold back."

Flux gave a small nod in return.

Inside the tournament grounds, the waiting room was quiet. He stepped inside, chose a seat along the far wall, and closed his eyes.