32: The mountain under the sky.

In the span of two months, the intense rumors and speculations surrounding the destruction of the Mei family gradually faded. The world moved on to new topics of intrigue and gossip, leaving behind the horrific events of the "Ruined Night." This shift brought a sense of relief to Hi Ho, who had been constantly on edge, wary of anyone connecting them to the massacre.

One sunny afternoon, as they rested in a quaint village near the border of a large city, Rai Kan approached Hi Ho with an idea that rekindled his old worry.

**Rai Kan**:"Hi Ho, I've been thinking. There's a tournament coming up in the city of Vim Bo. It's called the Mountain Under the Sky. I want to participate."

Hi Ho,furrowed his brow, his relief dissolving into concern. "Vim Bo? That's practically next to Hon Gaban! And this tournament... It attracts the best fighters from the most powerful and prestigious sects. Are you sure about this?"

Rai Kan, spoke with determination. "Yes, I am. This is an opportunity to test my skills against the strongest of our generation. I can't pass it up."

**Hi Ho,sighed realizing he couldn't easily dissuade Rai Kan once his mind was set.* "You know this isn't just any tournament, right? The fighters you'll be facing are some of the most skilled and disciplined warriors. It won't be easy."

**Rai Kan**: "I know, and that's why I want to do it. I want to see where I stand among the best."

After a prolonged discussion, Hi Ho finally relented but with a significant caveat.

Hi Ho, spoke with a stern expression."Alright, Rai Kan, you can participate. But you have to swear to me that you won't hurt your opponents too much."

**Rai Kan**: *Confused.* "Why?"

Hi Ho,with an expression that clearly said 'are you kidding me?'* "You have a bit of a reputation, you know. A very good and massive streak of tearing people apart like they're made of paper. I'm pretty sure that the participants—especially the female ones—won't appreciate having their faces turned into something unrecognizably bloody."

Rai Kan, now genuinely puzzled."Why emphasize the female ones?"

Hi Ho,sighed deeply, realizing Rai Kan's innocence in certain social nuances."Because, Rai Kan, not everyone is as keen on turning every battle into a life-or-death struggle. Especially in a tournament setting, where the purpose is to test skills, not to inflict grievous injuries."

Three months later, after rigorous preparation and planning, Hi Ho and Rai Kan departed for the city of Vim Bo. The journey was long but uneventful, allowing them time to discuss strategies and what to expect from the tournament.

Upon arriving in Vim Bo, they were immediately met with the usual skepticism regarding Rai Kan's age. His ferocious appearance, with a build that could intimidate even the hardiest of warriors, consistently caused disbelief whenever he claimed to be just eighteen.

At the city gates, a guard stopped them.

Guard,eyed Rai Kan suspiciously."State your business and your age."

**Rai Kan**: *Firmly.* "I'm here to participate in the Mountain Under the Sky tournament. I'm eighteen."

Guard, raised an eyebrow. "Eighteen? You look like you eat bears for breakfast."

Rai kan:"Well,I did that sometime ago."

Guard:"Pardon?"

Hi Ho, who had grown accustomed to this routine, handed over an official document, and after much scrutiny and several checks with an age crystal, they were finally allowed to pass.

**Hi Ho**: This never gets old, does it?"

**Rai Kan**:"I guess my looks are deceiving."

While Hi Ho went to book an inn, Rai Kan headed towards the tournament registration area. The officials there were equally stunned by his claim of being eighteen, and it took multiple verifications with the age crystal before they reluctantly accepted his registration.

Tournament Official, "I've never seen an eighteen-year-old like this before. Are we sure this crystal is working correctly?"

His colleague, checked the crystal again."It's accurate. He really is eighteen."

**Rai Kan**: *Patiently waiting.* "Can I proceed now?"

**Tournament Official**: *Nodding.* "Yes, you're registered. Welcome to the Mountain Under the Sky tournament. Best of luck."

After completing his registration, Rai Kan waited for Hi Ho to return. He observed the bustling activity around him, noting the variety of fighters who had come to participate. There were young warriors from all corners of the region, each representing their sects and schools with pride. Their confident stances and focused expressions indicated they were not to be underestimated.

**Hi Ho**: *Arriving and looking around at the gathering of fighters.* "Looks like you're in good company. These kids are the cream of the crop."

**Rai Kan**: "That's what makes it exciting. Let's head to the inn and rest. Tomorrow will be a long day."

They walked through the lively streets of Vim Bo, heading towards the inn Hi Ho had booked. The city was vibrant with activity, as people from all walks of life prepared for the grand tournament. Merchants sold their wares, performers entertained the crowds, and fighters engaged in last-minute training sessions in the open squares.

**Hi Ho**: "I've arranged for a decent room. We should be able to get a good night's sleep."

**Rai Kan**: *Nodding.* "Good. We'll need it."

The inn was a modest establishment but comfortable. After settling in, they discussed their plans for the tournament.

**Hi Ho**: *Looking serious.* "Remember, Rai Kan, you promised not to hurt your opponents too much. This is about testing your skills, not proving your dominance."

**Rai Kan**:"I understand. I'll keep my strength in check."

**Hi Ho**: *Smiling slightly.* "Good. Now let's get some rest. Tomorrow marks the beginning of a new challenge."

As night fell, the city of Vim Bo quieted down, the anticipation of the upcoming tournament hanging in the air. Rai Kan and Hi Ho lay in their beds, each lost in their thoughts.

**Rai Kan**: *Staring at the ceiling.* "This tournament will be different, won't it?"

**Hi Ho**: *From his bed.* "Yes, it will. But remember, it's not just about winning. It's about learning and growing stronger."

With those words in mind, they drifted off to sleep, ready to face whatever challenges the next day would bring. The Mountain Under the Sky tournament promised to be an event that would test Rai Kan's skills, discipline, and resolve. And in the world of Murim, such trials were what shaped true warriors.