The Colosseum of the Azure Celestial Sect shimmered under the celestial light of Azure Blue. Its vast expanse, stretching like a star-kissed arena, pulsed faintly as though aware of the anticipation brewing within. Every participant, from the major sects to the hidden families, had taken their seats, murmuring with barely contained excitement.
Above the arena, Lucien's clone stood on a raised platform, his abyssal eyes scanning the crowd with an unreadable expression that carried the weight of eternity itself. Every presence in the Colosseum, from the towering patriarchs to the young prodigies, felt the subtle pressure of his authority.
"Welcome," he began, voice smooth yet commanding, carrying effortlessly to the farthest corners of the arena. "Today marks the beginning of the Azure Games, a gathering not only of skill and power but of strategy, wit, and growth. You are here to push your limits and inspire those who watch, and there will be no death—only lessons and challenges. Disobey, and the consequences will be yours alone."
A hush fell over the Colosseum. Even the elders whispered among themselves, sensing the invisible force radiating from him.
Lucien's clone's eyes glimmered as he raised his hand, gesturing toward a group appearing from a sudden ripple in space. Six figures stepped forward, not from any sect of Azure Blue, but from another universe entirely—the Nax Academy.
"These," Lucien's clone said, voice tinged with pride, "are special guests and participants in the Azure Games. They are not from this universe, yet their skills and growth are unparalleled. I present to you the peak disciples of Nax Academy."
One by one, they were introduced:
Hoshigami — a female disciple of Lucien's real body, her presence calm but fierce, partially awakened to the metaphysical plane. She radiated an aura of resilience and latent power. Hayato — a tactical male, quick-thinking, master of close combat and elemental manipulation. His gaze scanned the arena, calculating angles and potential threats. Rei — bold and aggressive, his energy practically crackled around him, specializing in destructive energy techniques and offensive strategies. Shunji — calm and precise, a master of mystical arts, defensive maneuvers, and battlefield control. He exuded quiet confidence. Akemi — versatile and fast, expert in illusions and space manipulation. She moved with the grace of flowing water, her eyes taking in every detail. Kojiro — analytical to the core, he combined martial prowess with metaphysical arts, focusing on ranged techniques with pinpoint accuracy.
The six disciples made their way to their specially prepared seats at the center of the Colosseum, a prime vantage point for observing the games and participating when called. Aelira bounced into the seats beside them, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Big brothers! Big sisters!" she exclaimed, wrapping herself around Hoshigami's arm and waving at the others with glee. "I get to sit with you!"
Hoshigami smiled, gently patting her head. "Sit tight, little one. You'll see some amazing things today."
The rest of the peak disciples exchanged brief, knowing glances, each acknowledging the unusual nature of their presence here. Though strangers in this universe, their aura made it clear—they were not to be underestimated.
Lucien's clone folded his hands behind his back and surveyed the audience once more, eyes glinting with anticipation. "The Azure Games are not merely a test of strength," he said. "They are a spectacle of mastery, a convergence of worlds, and a glimpse into the future of cultivation itself. Every strike, every technique, and every decision will be witnessed by all."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. The Colosseum seemed to vibrate with latent energy, responding to his authority and the anticipation of the gathered cultivators.
Finally, with a faint, almost playful smirk, he raised his hand. "Let the games begin. The first round shall commence!"
A surge of light erupted from the arena, illuminating every seat, every participant, every observer from near and far. Energy rippled across the platform, the very atmosphere charged with the thrill of imminent competition.
Aelira clutched Hoshigami's arm, eyes wide. "I can't wait! This is going to be amazing!"
Hoshigami chuckled softly. "Be ready to learn, little one. The first round is just the beginning."
From above, Lucien's clone watched, a faint grin playing on his lips. The stage was set. The Azure Games had officially begun, and the world, the nearby planets, and the cosmos beyond would bear witness to legends in the making.
And with that, the Colosseum's central platform shimmered, signaling the arrival of the first challengers.