A booming voice suddenly echoed across the arena, magnified by spiritual transmission techniques.
It rolled through the air like thunder, silencing the last murmurs of conversation and laughter.
"Welcome, cultivators, nobles, and honored guests to the 137th Dragon and Phoenix Competition!"
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause.
The voice belonged to a tall, imposing man clad in silver-blue robes embroidered with the emblem of the Imperial Tournament Office—a roaring dragon curled around a blazing phoenix.
He floated midair atop a flying jade platform that hovered over the center of the arena, his presence commanding and authoritative.
"I am Yan Minglan, Referee and Overseer for this year's competition."
His cultivation was at the Spirit Severing Realm, which was appropriate for overseeing a competition between geniuses in the Soul Formation Realm.
If someone weaker presided over the matches, they might not be able to intervene when necessary.
