A week flashed by in an instant, yet to Zhuan Ming's frustration, the skies remained stubbornly clear. Still, his cultivation progressed steadily—his soul's development had now reached 5% completion, and lately, his speed had begun to accelerate. The headaches that once plagued him when using spiritual energy had lessened, further convincing him that the issue was tied to his soul—though the exact cause remained elusive.
While Zhuan Ming advanced, Li Qingyue was far from idle. Following his advice, she had begun practicing with supplementary Rule Path abilities, learning to combine them seamlessly with her Sword Path artifact. Unfortunately, no offensive Rule Path artifacts were available for purchase, limiting her combat options.
Her condition had stabilized—for now. But this was only if she didn't cultivate her soul, the energies within her might spiral into chaos again, risking depletion or even self-corruption. For the time being, mastery of her current skills took priority over advancement.
The Azura Sword Sect had a lively atmosphere everybody was awaiting the guests, this year around the competition was hosted by them, the whole village was cleaner than usual, even the otter part of the sect that usually looked like the slums was rather clean, the inner and outer disciples were ordered to wash their clothes and be on their best behaviour. Trought the towering main gates, the visiting sects made their entrance with all the pomp and ceremony befitting such an occasion. They made sure to show off since the battle was not just between disciples but also between sects.
First was the Blazing Steel Sect, they were riding a Steel Armour Fire turtle it was so big that it barely fit trough the main gates, on the turtles armour was a tent around the tent were many disciples to show off some disciples started shooting fire in the sky that transformed in to flowing fire birds to showcase their fire control.
After them came the Iron Fist Mountain Sect, they were on a Strong Armor Turtle, it was slightly smaller then the Steel Armour Fire turtle but it was faster, the there were many tents on the turtles back to protect themselves from the heat of the sun since they were not as resistant and accustoms to it as the Blazing Steel Sects dispels. Seeing the other disciples show off they weren't about to fall short so they began throwing punches in to the air making a loud "shoosh" sound.
The Azura Sky Sect disciples were watching this from the side scoping their competition while also being impressed and amazed by the turtles. The 2 sects kept moving till they reached the inner sect gates were the turtles couldn't fit.
The elders exchanged courteous bows as the visiting sects disembarked from their large turtles.
Elder Zhao of the Blazing Steel Sect smoothed his crimson sleeves, his voice warm but measured. "Elder Feng, your Azure Sky Sect grounds look particularly well-maintained this season. The gardens near the entrance are quite impressive."
Elder Feng returned the bow with equal grace. "You honor us with your kind words, Elder Zhao. We've made some modest improvements since your last visit. Though I must say, your Steel Armor Fire Turtle seems even more magnificent than I remembered - your sect's beast taming skills continue to impress."
From the Iron Fist Mountain Sect, Elder Mei offered a respectful nod, her tone even but firm. "The journey was pleasant. Your mountains provide excellent training terrain - my disciples were commenting on the challenging elevation."
"Indeed," Elder Feng acknowledged. "We're fortunate to have such natural advantages. Though I imagine your Iron Fist disciples would find our peaks less daunting than most."
Elder Zhao gestured to the arena grounds visible in the distance. "We're all eager to see how this year's disciples perform. My juniors have been working hard to refine their control - perhaps they might even give your sword masters some worthy competition."
Elder Mei added diplomatically, "Every sect brings unique strengths. These exchanges benefit all our students." Though her stance remained perfectly straight, the subtle flexing of her fingers betrayed her anticipation.
"Quite true," Elder Feng agreed. "Shall we proceed to the reception hall? We've prepared some local delicacies that might be to your liking - though I understand if your palates prefer your regional specialties."
Elder Zhao chuckled politely. "Your hospitality is appreciated. Though I suspect the real feast will be watching our young talents test themselves against worthy opponents."
As they walked toward the main compound, their conversation remained cordial yet carried quiet confidence. Beneath the surface, each elder privately looked down on the others, maintaining appearances of alliance while secretly hoping for their rivals' defeat. Their ambitions and pride far exceeded what the disciples could comprehend—the juniors focused only on the rewards for winning, unaware of what was at play.