King Tian Long sat upon his majestic golden throne, his robes draped regally, a faint smile tugging at his lips. Beside him, Li Dong finally arrived, his footsteps calm and unhurried, before lowering himself onto his seat. Tian Long turned his head slightly, smirking as he said in a teasing tone,
"You're late, bro."
Li Dong crossed his arms, closing his eyes with indifference. "Just be happy that I decided to come."
Tian Long laughed heartily, his deep voice echoing across the royal viewing platform. "Oh yeah. I am grateful."
The scene shifted to the Sanatan Flame Sect's VIP room, high above the roaring arena. Shaurya lounged lazily on his throne-like seat, Lin Shu sitting gracefully beside him. Around him, the sect elders sat in solemn silence, while down below in the stands, their disciples filled the crowd, eagerly awaiting their sect's turn.
