Tournament [3]

A chime rang again, and the host stepped forward, her voice ringing with spirited grace.

"For the next match, Wu Yan of the Wu Clan!"

Cheers rose from the Wu Clan's section as a tall girl in storm-blue robes stepped confidently onto the stage.

Her hair was tied in a high ponytail, her eyes sharp and proud.

She moved with purpose, every step brimming with self-assured energy.

"A direct disciple of the Wu Clan," murmured someone in the crowd.

"Early Qi Transformation, right?"

"Of course. Wouldn't be up there otherwise."

The host's hand swept to the other side. "Her opponent—Du Xiao! Rogue cultivator."

From the other waiting area, a girl stepped forward.

She was younger-looking, likely no more than seventeen, her face calm and unreadable.

Her clothes were plain but well-fitted, a brown tunic over a white undershirt.

On her back was a simple steel sword, unadorned and slightly weathered.