The two faced each other on the massive stone platform, and the crowd hushed.
Xun Wei narrowed her eyes and shifted into a relaxed stance—sheathed weapon, no posture—just calm breathing. Lin Wu cracked his neck and grinned.
"I hope you can last more than a few seconds," Lin Wu taunted with a smug grin.
Xun Wei didn't respond.
High above the stage, seated atop the Matriarch's viewing platform, Shi Lan observed in composed silence, her hands resting gently on the armrests of her throne-like seat. Behind her, Supreme Elder Song stood with arms folded, eyes narrowed. Beside Shi Lan, Supreme Elder Yao Wu sat upright, her gaze sharp and unblinking as her direct disciple stepped forward onto the battlefield.
"I'm getting goosebumps," Yao Wu murmured.
Shi Lan let out a quiet chuckle. "My, my. I didn't expect you to be so invested in this tournament. Or is it simply because your own disciple is in the spotlight?"
