The tension in the Grand Arena could be sliced with a blade.
The banners of the Celestial Sect fluttered gently in the spring wind, but their disciples stood still, their faces grim. Across from them, the Heaven Fire Pavilion disciples basked in their aggressive energy, confident and loud. And above them all, seated on floating thrones of qi-forged crystal, were the elders, sect leaders, and special envoys from distant lands, watching the gathering storm with measured interest.
What had begun as a disagreement over marriage had escalated into a confrontation that threatened to destabilize the balance of power between several sects.
Six months ago, the Heaven Fire Pavilion had proposed a political marriage between Yuan Qian, one of Celestial Sect's brightest disciples, and Wai Jun, the spoiled son of their sect leader Huo Liang. When Celestial Sect refused, citing Yuan Qian's personal freedom and the incompatibility of talents, threats began to surface — hidden first, then open. And now, the flames of war hovered just beneath the surface.
To avoid bloodshed, Sect Leader Yuan Xian had issued a challenge: ten battles, sect against sect. If Heaven Fire Pavilion won the majority, the marriage would happen. If Celestial Sect triumphed, the matter would be dropped permanently.
It was an extreme gamble. But Yuan Xian had confidence in his disciples — especially Lin Hai, whose rapid rise had startled even the elders. From second stage to ninth in the Qi Gathering Realm in just six months. It defied reason.
"Match standings so far: Celestial Sect – three victories. Pavilion – one victory," a voice echoed from the sky.
The momentum was leaning in Celestial Sect's favor — but the Pavilion still had their strongest warriors in reserve.
On the platform, Lin Hai stood with his hands behind his back, his expression calm, his mind razor-focused. Around him, fellow disciples whispered about his growth.
"He's monstrous," one said.
"Scary, more like," another murmured. "What kind of cultivation path does he follow?"
Nearby, Yuan Qian stood with her gaze locked on the arena. Her face was composed, her poise unshaken. She had known Lin Hai for less than a year, but she respected him — not for his power alone, but for his clarity, his resolve, and his refusal to bow to anyone unjustly.
"Lin Hai," she said quietly, "when you fight… don't hold back. Not for me, not for the sect. Fight because you believe we should be free."
He glanced at her. "I will. No one should be bought like cattle. Not even in the name of peace."
Their words were simple. Respectful. No emotional threads lingered — just a shared understanding of duty.
A sudden gust of wind drew every eye to the sky. A massive serpent-shaped spirit beast descended from the clouds, a platform resting on its back. Its scales shimmered like liquid glass, and its eyes glowed with cosmic qi.
"The Sky Serpent Palace envoy has arrived!" the announcer shouted.
On the beast's back stood a lone figure — Envoy Yan Ji, robed in silver, face concealed behind a translucent mask. A high-tier sect watching a mid-tier battle was no small matter. This battle had grown far beyond a mere marriage.
A second arrival followed — a smaller platform carried by wind talismans. From it stepped Elder Mei of the Silver Flame Sect, the judge selected to oversee the battles.
"The balance must be preserved," she declared. "Let no foul play or interference occur, or consequences will be swift."
Across the arena, Huo Liang, sect master of Heaven Fire Pavilion, rose from his seat. His eyes bore into Yuan Xian with venomous focus.
"You've stretched this far enough, Yuan Xian. Give us the girl and end this mockery of diplomacy."
Yuan Xian remained seated, his posture unbothered. "This 'mockery' is the only reason your sect isn't already at war with three others. We are abiding by the terms you accepted. Or has your pride grown too fragile to wait?"
Wai Jun, dressed in embroidered red silk, stepped forward and laughed. "Yuan Qian, it's only a matter of time now. Once my brother Jun Lao wins his match, you'll finally belong to us."
Yuan Qian didn't even look at him. "You can't win my will through combat. That's not how strength works."
"You dare—!"
"You don't deserve her name in your mouth," Lin Hai interjected flatly.
Wai Jun turned to him, furious. "You again? Do you think your speed in cultivation makes you some kind of heaven-chosen? Wait until you face real power. The Duke Stage disciples will crush you."
Lin Hai took a step closer. "I welcome the challenge."
Just as the tension was about to erupt, Elder Mei raised her hand. "Enough. Your words are not swords. Let the matches decide."
Yan Ji of the Sky Serpent Palace finally spoke, his voice echoing with restrained power. "We are not here to argue over words. We watch to see which sect can uphold their honor and carry forward the weight of destiny. Let the weak perish. Let the worthy rise."
With that, the crowd erupted into chants and speculation.
Lin Hai closed his eyes for a moment. He had no interest in political marriages, sect wars, or glory. But he did care about one thing: freedom. Freedom to walk his path. Freedom to let others walk theirs.
As the next match was called, a figure entered the arena. A Duke Stage disciple from Heaven Fire Pavilion, cloaked in fiery aura.
The announcer's voice rang clear:
"Match five — Lin Hai of Celestial Sect versus Yun Tian of Heaven Fire Pavilion. Begin!"
And just like that, the air cracked with tension.
The war of fists, wills, and spirit was about to escalate.