181 Chapter 180: Day Two (II)
Cang Yue wiped a bead of sweat from her brow, feeling increasingly overwhelmed by the escalating rumors surrounding Nezuko's relationship with Chu Yueli. Despite her best efforts, the gossip seemed to spiral out of control, leaving her feeling powerless to contain it. She could only hope that whoever Yun Che chose as Nezuko's replacement would be able to defend herself against the relentless scrutiny.
Speaking of the devil, Yun Che emerged from the Mirror Dimension portal conjured within their Blue Wind Imperial Family's seating area, accompanied by Retsu, Nemu, and Mio. Retsu looked elegant in her special pink kimono, while Nemu and Mio appeared in their usual attire: Mio in her usual traditional kimono and Nemu in her striking Miko priestess outfit.
"Wow, even more people than yesterday," Yun Che mused aloud, taking in the bustling scene of the arena. Indeed, the crowd seemed to have swelled since the previous day's matches.
"Ufuuu, looks like we made a sensation," Retsu remarked with a playful smirk, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Mouuu, you're finally here," Cang Yue sighed in relief as Yun Che and the others arrived.
"Sorry we're late. We didn't miss any name-calling, did we?" Yun Che joked, glancing around at the sea of faces filling the arena.
"No, not yet," Cang Yue replied with a wry smile, recalling the chaos of the previous day when everyone had been tardy, thanks in part to her.
"Korra, why do I have to carry the heavy load?!" Kon complained as he emerged from the portal, struggling under the weight of a stack of bentos.
"You're the gopher. Besides, I've stored plenty in my inventory," Yun Che teased, flashing a mischievous grin at Kon's grumbling.
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Blue Wind Imperial Family – Yun Che ----vs----- Cloud Mountain Sect – Meng Yu
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Blue Wind Imperial Family – Cang Yue ---vs----- Cloud Mountain Sect - Liu Fengwei
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Blue Wind Imperial Family – Unohana Retsu ---vs---- Cloud Mountain Sect - Yang Zhongtian
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"What in the world? All three of us scheduled for the first matches of the day? And against opponents from the Cloud Mountain Sect!" Yun Che exclaimed, his voice echoing through their seating zone. The surprise was evident not only on his face but also on the faces of everyone present. It was an unexpected turn of events to have all three top contenders from the Blue Wind Imperial Family facing off against representatives from the Cloud Mountain Sect simultaneously, despite being in different arenas.
"The Cloud Mountain Sect must have drawn the short end of the stick, or perhaps the long one. Three matches against them right off the bat," remarked a spectator, voicing what many were thinking.
"Even so, after witnessing the prowess of the Blue Wind Imperial Family yesterday, I doubt anyone would underestimate them," another added, acknowledging the formidable reputation they had earned.
"It feels almost like a setup," Retsu chimed in, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she rose from her seat and retrieved her Japanese parasol. There was a sense of anticipation in the air, as if she sensed the need for her weapon.
"We'll be cheering for you, Danna-sama!" Mio exclaimed eagerly, her excitement palpable.
"Go for it, Nee-sama!" Nemu added, her expression stoic yet supportive.
"It's Nee-chan!" Retsu corrected playfully, giving her little sister's head a gentle pat.
With a shrug and a grin, Yun Che led his team down the arena stairs, drawing the attention of the crowd. Famous disciples from various sects cast curious glances their way, especially focusing on Yun Che, Princess Cang Yue, and the enigmatic beauty Unohana Retsu. Among them, Xia Qingyue's gaze lingered on Yun Che, but she made sure to shoot a pointed glare in Retsu's direction as well.
Yun Che stepped into his designated arena, his presence commanding attention as he prepared to face his opponent, Meng Yu. However, what caught Yun Che off guard was Meng Yu's demeanor. Despite being about to engage in combat with a formidable opponent like Yun Che, Meng Yu appeared calm and undeterred, his confidence evident in his stance.
As the match began, Meng Yu wasted no time in launching a flurry of attacks, each one accompanied by a shouted name. Yun Che's agile movements allowed him to easily evade each strike, but the constant barrage of shouted techniques grated on his nerves.
"Spinning punch!" Meng Yu's fist lashed out, charged with profound energy, only to miss its target as Yun Che sidestepped effortlessly.
"Spinning Kick!" Meng Yu followed up with a swift kick, but once again, Yun Che dodged with ease.
"Uppercut punch!" Meng Yu continued his assault, aiming a punch from below, but Yun Che anticipated the move and evaded once more.
Yun Che couldn't help but feel annoyed by Meng Yu's theatrics. Was this guy really shouting out every technique's name? It seemed more like a tactic to distract Yun Che than anything else.
"Why aren't you fighting back?!" Meng Yu demanded, frustration evident in his voice as Yun Che continued to dodge his attacks.
"Dude, do you really shout out all of your techniques?" Yun Che retorted, his irritation palpable as he deftly avoided another flurry of strikes.
"We were taught to! Great warriors shout their attack names! Stop dodging and take my triple strikes!" Meng Yu insisted, launching into another series of attacks, each one accompanied by a shouted name.
"Rampaging kick!" Meng Yu shouted as he unleashed another strike, but Yun Che was ready this time. With a swift movement, he intercepted Meng Yu's attack and countered with a precise One-Inch Punch aimed at his opponent's chest.
"Why... why aren't you shouting your attacks?!" Meng Yu demanded, his frustration evident as he continued his relentless assault.
"I don't need to! A whisper is just enough, or I can say it inside my mind!" Yun Che responded, his tone tinged with exasperation.
"You need to shout them!" Meng Yu insisted, his belief in the necessity of shouting techniques unwavering.
Yun Che couldn't help but feel a sense of embarrassment at the thought of shouting out his attacks. The idea now seemed absurd to him, and he couldn't shake the feeling of cringe that washed over him.
"Oh, man... Now I feel cringe when I shout most of my attacks. I promised myself I would only whisper them. Just whisper. *Sigh," Yun Che lamented, realizing the folly of his previous actions. It seemed that the heavens were teaching him a valuable lesson: shouting techniques may seem fun, but in reality, they often make the user look foolish.
"Next time, when you're attacking, shout the name like a true warrior," Meng Yu advised, as if imparting wisdom.
Yun Che couldn't help but sweatdrop at the absurdity of the situation. "The hell did I get myself into?" he muttered under his breath, feeling a mixture of frustration and amusement.
With a resigned sigh, Yun Che decided to humor his opponent's request, albeit with a mischievous twist. "Fine... If you want me to shout... fine..."
Meng Yu eagerly prepared his ultimate move, ready to unleash it upon Yun Che. "Take this!! Ultimate super kick!!" he shouted, charging forward with determination.
Yun Che deftly dodged the attack, moving with fluid grace as he positioned himself behind his unsuspecting opponent. With a smirk playing on his lips, he clasped both his index and middle fingers together before shouting, just as Meng Yu had requested, "Konohagakure Hiden Taijutsu Ōgi!! (Leaf Village Secret Finger Jutsu) A Thousand Years of Death!!!"
In one swift motion, Yun Che thrust his fingers between Meng Yu's buttocks, delivering the comically named technique with precision. While not inherently harmful, the sheer shock and discomfort of the move caused Meng Yu to leap into the air, his expression a mix of surprise and embarrassment as he soared through the arena, much to the amusement of the crowd.
As Meng Yu soared through the air like a projectile, propelled by the unexpected and somewhat scandalous attack from Yun Che, the entire arena fell into stunned silence. The impact as he collided with the opposite barrier reverberated through the air, leaving a lingering sense of shock in its wake.
Meng Yu's unfortunate landing, with his bottom steaming from the unexpected assault, elicited sympathetic winces from the spectators. Many couldn't help but instinctively clench their own bottoms, imagining the intense pain of such an unorthodox technique.
"Arara…." Retsu, watching from her own arena, could only sweatdrop at the spectacle unfolding before her. She hadn't even begun her own fight, yet Yun Che had already concluded his with a sensation, albeit one tinged with a hint of vulgarity.
"Rascal, you're despicable!" Little Fairy's voice echoed in Yun Che's mind, her disbelief evident at the unorthodox and somewhat crude method he had employed. She vowed silently that if he ever dared to use such a technique against a woman, she would ensure he faced consequences he wouldn't soon forget. Perhaps a lesson involving broken fingers would be in order.
Chu Yueli, visibly taken aback by the crassness of Yun Che's move, couldn't help but express her disapproval. "How... how vulgar!" she exclaimed, her shock palpable.
Meanwhile, Nezuko found the entire situation uproariously funny, her laughter ringing out as she waved her feet in amusement. Chu Yueli senses the discomfort of her fellow female disciples against Nezuko's reaction, she even took it upon herself to close Nezuko's eyes, sparing her from witnessing the rather indecent display.
Xia Qingyue, renowned for her calm and composed demeanor, was unable to hide her astonishment at Yun Che's unorthodox fighting style. "Is this really how you fight?" she questioned, her disbelief evident in her voice.
Throughout the arena, other female disciples couldn't help but hold their bottoms protectively, the thought occurring to them: if Yun Che were to use such a technique on them, would they be able to hold him accountable for interfering with their prospects of marriage? Forcing him to marry them instead? The notion sent a ripple of unease through the crowd, adding yet another layer of intrigue to the already eventful tournament.
As Xia Yuanba instinctively protected his own bottom, he couldn't help but shoot a reproachful glance at his brother-in-law. The fact that Yun Che had resorted to such a crude tactic in the arena left him feeling a mix of amusement and disbelief.
Ling Yuefeng, too, couldn't hide his disdain at the vulgarity of Yun Che's move. However, his wife's intrigued gaze caught his attention. Despite the barbaric display, she seemed oddly fascinated by the young man who had caused such a stir. Ling Yuefeng couldn't help but wonder what it was about Yun Che that had captured her interest.
Meanwhile, Yun Che couldn't suppress a grin as he stepped down from the stage, his comrades still nursing their bottoms from the unexpected assault. While he knew he wouldn't use such a tactic again, he couldn't deny the satisfaction of causing a sensation in the arena. Perhaps he'd even consider making it an unblockable technique in the future, just for the novelty of it.
As Cang Yue prepared to begin her own match, she couldn't help but sigh at the spectacle Yun Che had created. Despite the crude nature of his move, she found herself stifling a giggle. After all, a little humor was much-needed amidst the tension of the tournament.
In Retsu's match, her opponent brandished his sword, a blatant attempt to goad her into action. However, Retsu had no intention of succumbing to his taunts. Despite her opponent's provocative gestures, she remained composed, refusing to be drawn into a hasty attack.
Instead, she reached for her parasol, a seemingly innocuous accessory that concealed a hidden surprise. With a sigh of exasperation, Retsu closed her parasol, catching her opponent off guard. Expecting an imminent strike, he braced himself for impact, but Retsu had a different plan in mind.
Her opponent smirked, confident that Retsu wouldn't actually employ her parasol as a weapon. To him, she seemed like an easy opponent to defeat. However, what he didn't anticipate was something entirely different.
With precision, she aimed the top of her parasol at her opponent, deftly activating a concealed trigger. A hushed sound emanated from the parasol's tip as she unleashed an air bullet, intended not to inflict harm, but to exert force. The impact was powerful, propelling her opponent forcefully into the arena's barrier.
As her opponent rebounded off the barrier and slid to the ground, the crowd erupted into a chorus of astonished gasps and excited murmurs. Retsu's unconventional tactic had caught everyone by surprise, demonstrating both her ingenuity and her resourcefulness in combat.
"Parry that, you filthy casual." Yun Che mused as he observed her battle from afar.
The air bullet, propelled from the top of Retsu's parasol, seamlessly merged with the surrounding air, amplifying its force as it streaked towards her opponent. Designed by Yun Che as a special gift, Retsu's modified parasol concealed a hidden weapon within its elegant exterior. Instead of a mere sunshade, it housed an air projectile gun, ingeniously disguised.
Crafted from specialized bullet casing, the projectile gun absorbed and compressed air along with the bullet. Upon release, the compressed air mingled with the surrounding atmosphere, enhancing the impact of the bullet and creating a powerful force that propelled her opponent with astonishing speed. While lethal force was an option with the parasol's default setting, Retsu opted for the non-lethal air push function, adhering to the tournament's rules against killing.
In the arena, the rules permitted the use of all weapons as long as they were not poisonous. This encompassed a wide range of armaments, including ranged weapons, as certain sects were known for their proficiency with bows and arrows.
Retsu wasn't amused by the antics of her opponent, who seemed to be showing off with his sword-waving skill, as if he could match her skill. With a determined expression, she raised her parasol and took her shot.
As her opponent crumpled under the impact, unconscious and defeated, Retsu swiftly reverted her parasol to its normal state. The crowd erupted into frenzied cheers and applause, awed by Retsu's strategic ingenuity and the unexpected spectacle she had delivered.
"Holy hell, was that an invisible attack?" exclaimed one spectator in disbelief, his eyes wide with astonishment.
"What did she just do?" another audience member questioned, trying to make sense of the sudden turn of events.
"When did she even attack?" murmured a third person, scanning the arena in confusion, unable to discern the precise moment of the assault.
Little Fairy's Haki pierced through the arena's atmosphere, revealing the concealed projectile launched from Retsu's parasol. It was a remarkable creation, crafted entirely from compressed air, designed to push her opponent towards the barrier before dissipating. Little Fairy's widened eyes betrayed her surprise at the ingenuity of such a weapon hidden within a seemingly innocuous parasol. In the hands of a cunning individual like Retsu, even the most mundane objects could become lethal tools.
"Onee-san, did you see anything from that fight?" Chu Yueli inquired, cradling Nezuko in her lap as the little girl cheered for Retsu in her own adorable way.
Little Fairy nodded thoughtfully before explaining, "Hnnnn, she uses an air projectile to push her opponent. Not harmful, just enough to knock him out."
Chu Yueli's surprise was evident at the revelation. "She can do that?" She couldn't help but marvel at the idea of manipulating air to attack an opponent. Just how powerful or cunning is this Retsu girl?
Meanwhile, Xia Qingyue maintained her composure despite the revelation. She understood the importance of remaining vigilant against such unexpected weaponry. Was Retsu's parasol merely a sunshade, or did it harbor something far more sinister? It was a question that lingered in Xia Qingyue's mind, urging her to stay prepared for any eventuality.
With a calm demeanor, Retsu reverted her parasol to its original state, concealing any evidence of its hidden functionality. The unexpected maneuver had secured her victory in the match, earning her admiration and respect from the spectators. With it, the Blue Wind Imperial Family had already secured two wins. Now, it was Cang Yue's turn.
As both opponents from the Cloud Mountain Sect lay defeated, Cang Yue prepared herself for her own match against Yang Zhongtian, perhaps the most composed of the trio. It struck her as either fate or sheer coincidence that all three adversaries hailed from the same sect.
"Hmph, both defeated in an instant. Weak," Yang Zhongtian remarked, drawing his swords with confidence. "So, I am facing you now, Princess Cang Yue."
Cang Yue observed her opponent, noting his strength at the Fifth Level of the Spirit Profound Realm. Clad in the same robes as his companions, he wielded two swords, suggesting a formidable skillset.
"Please forgive me, Princess Cang Yue. I am going to defeat you and bring honor to my sect," Yang Zhongtian declared, assuming a ready stance.
With the match underway, Yang Zhongtian wasted no time in launching his assault, aiming to overpower Cang Yue with a single strike. However, she was prepared, swiftly countering his attack with her own blade, Shisui. "Don't forget, I am also a swordswoman," she reminded him calmly.
With a grace born of focused determination, Cang Yue met each of Yang Zhongtian's sword strikes with precision and finesse. As his blades flashed through the air in a flurry of motion, she moved with fluid agility, her own sword, Shisui, becoming an extension of her will. With swift, calculated movements, she deflected his assaults, her keen eyes anticipating each incoming strike with unwavering resolve. Despite the intensity of his attacks, Cang Yue remained composed, her movements a testament to her honed skill and unwavering resolve.
Frustration flashed across Yang Zhongtian's face as he regrouped for another attack, brandishing both swords. Yet, despite his efforts, Cang Yue effortlessly evaded and parried his strikes, displaying a level of skill that surprised even herself. With a subtle exertion of strength, she deftly pushed him aside, her heart aching for her opponent's futile struggle.
"Please stop this, just concede," Cang Yue urged, her voice tinged with sympathy.
"I won't!" Yang Zhongtian retorted, his determination flaring as he lunged towards her. But in an instant, his expression turned to shock as he realized his target was merely an afterimage, and Cang Yue stood unscathed nearby.
Aware that her opponent had attempted a sneak attack, Cang Yue tensed, resolving to remain vigilant despite feeling the strain on her mental stamina.
The crowd erupted once more, impressed by Cang Yue's display of speed and agility. Little Fairy watched with widened eyes, contemplating the rapid growth Cang Yue had undergone in just two months. From a timid girl facing formidable adversaries to a confident warrior executing afterimage techniques, Cang Yue's transformation was nothing short of remarkable. It left Little Fairy wondering what lessons she could have learned had she stayed with them, and how much she could have grown alongside her companions.
"Amazing, look how Little Yue dodges the attacks. It's not the same as Haki," Retsu exclaimed, marveling at Cang Yue's evasive maneuvers, reminiscent of the Table Hopper Technique.
"How, did you teach her the Table Hopper Technique?" Jasmine's voice echoed within Yun Che's mind, prompting him to recall the evasion technique that executes auto evasion at the very last moment. Even Chu Yueli, who had learned the technique from her sister, was astonished, while Little Fairy assumed it was the Table Hopper Technique.
"Nope, believe it or not. That's Kami-e. So, she focuses on it. Quite smart," Yun Che explained from outside her arena, responding to Jasmine's shock.
"Kami-e?" Retsu inquired, intrigued by the unfamiliar term.
"Kami-e, or paper drawing, allows users to relax their body and make it take on the characteristics of a piece of paper; this grants the user extraordinary flexibility that allows them to avoid any attacks. It's one of the Rokushiki Arts that I transferred into her mind," Yun Che elaborated.
"As for that technique she used just now. That's Kami-e Zashin, or 'Paper Drawing: 'Remaining Body'. It's like creating an afterimage the moment she's being attacked. So, she moves so fast that her afterimage is being attacked instead. Similar to us leaving an afterimage when using advanced flash steps," Yun Che continued, detailing the intricacies of Cang Yue's technique.
"Sugoi…" Retsu exclaimed, impressed by Cang Yue's prowess. It seems that one of the Rokushiki that she learned for now was Kami-e.
"Remember, she can use Total Concentration Observation Haki just like us and merge it with her Busoshoku No Haki and now with Kami-e. She can create an afterimage of herself. Little Yue is indeed a genius," Yun Che concluded, acknowledging Cang Yue's exceptional abilities.
"She is indeed Xuyi's successor," Jasmine remarked, her pride evident as she envisioned Cang Yue surpassing Xuyi's own accomplishments. If that girl weren't bound to this world, her name would echoed in the Realm of The Gods.
Meanwhile, the crowd marveled at Cang Yue's astonishing speed and ability to leave behind afterimages as she continued to evade Yang Zhongtian's attacks. Utilizing her Observation Haki, she effortlessly dodged every attempt made by her opponent, showcasing her mastery over the Kami-e technique. However, she refrained from attacking or drawing her sword, as the Kami-e Zashin she had used earlier was still a skill in progress, requiring all her Haki to be activated before she could utilize it effectively.
As a safety precaution, Yuyun had programmed a template into her body's autopilot mode so that if Cang Yue were ever in danger, certain skills in her mind would automatically activate under specific conditions, allowing her to execute seemingly impossible techniques. However, she knew that relying on this feature could exhaust her mentally. When Yang Zhongtian attempted a sneak attack, her body instinctively activated Total Concentration Observation Haki and Busoshoku Haki, merging them with her cultivated Kami-e technique to evade the attack seamlessly before disengaging the skills. Cang Yue remained on high alert, knowing she couldn't afford to let her guard down.
"Two of my comrades are defeated. I have to beat you!!" Yang Zhongtian charged up his remaining profound strength, his determination evident in his expression.
"I am sorry… I have my own reasons to win as well," Cang Yue replied calmly, her grip tightening on Shisui as she prepared for the confrontation.
"Huarrggghhh!!!" With a burst of profound strength, Yang Zhongtian launched himself forward, directing his remaining power at Cang Yue.
"Ittoryu (One Sword Style)…." Cang Yue raised her sword skyward, her eyes closing briefly as she focused her energy.
"Cloud Art, Dual Slash Attack!!" Yang Zhongtian shouted as he thrust his swords toward her, but Cang Yue was already one step ahead.
"Kiri-Shigure (Cutting Timely Rain)," she murmured softly, her movement swift and precise as she gracefully sidestepped his attack and countered with a single fluid motion. With a burst of blood, Yang Zhongtian staggered back, dropping his swords as the realization of his defeat washed over him.
"Impossible…. I am sorry, elder. They're too strong for me," Yang Zhongtian gritted his teeth, his defeat evident as Cang Yue's blade sliced through him. Though she had no intention of causing him harm, the force of her attack spoke volumes of her skill. She had seen his strength and knew he stood little chance against the might of top sects.
"I am sorry…. Truly…" Cang Yue resheathed her sword, a sense of solemnity in her voice as she turned away from the battlefield. The encounter had taught her a valuable lesson: every opponent fought with their own motivations, even in moments of desperation. From Yang Zhongtian's barely controlled attacks to his final, desperate flurry, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for him. Despite the circumstances, it was an honor for her to face him.
"Fifth Level Spirit Profound Realm defeated just like that," murmured a disciple from a prominent sect, awe evident in his tone. Even a warrior of Yang Zhongtian's caliber couldn't withstand the might of Cang Yue and her companions.
"Princess Cang Yue is truly a force to be reckoned with, much like Yun Che and the formidable Unohana Retsu," his comrade replied, acknowledging the trio's prowess.
"Do you know how fast she is? Comparable to Yun Che himself," chimed in another spectator, marveling at Cang Yue's speed and agility.
The elder of the Cloud Mountain Sect watched on, a mixture of resignation and humility in his expression. It was clear they had underestimated their opponents, and now they bore the weight of defeat. Despite this setback, he harbored hope that their sect could rise from the ashes, perhaps even securing a respectable ranking among the lower three hundred.
As Cang Yue descended from the stage to join Yun Che and Retsu, she couldn't afford to dwell on the emotions stirred by her opponents' defeat. She had her own reasons to emerge victorious, and she would continue to fight with unwavering determination.
The Blue Wind Imperial Family had dealt a crushing blow to the Cloud Mountain Sect, their three top experts falling to the prowess of True Profound Realm fighters. The humiliation weighing heavily on their shoulders, the defeated experts made their way back to their seating zones, their spirits undoubtedly shattered. Meanwhile, Yun Che's gaze shifted towards Xia Qingyue's fighting stage, observing her match unfold much like Cang Yue's. However, it seemed Xia Qingyue's victories were swift and almost effortless, with three of her opponents conceding due to their status and reputation. Even Ling Yun's opponent had chosen to forfeit the fight, adding to the growing tally of concessions.
Ling Yun, his eyes filled with frustration and resentment, turned his attention to Retsu, hoping for some acknowledgment from her. Yet, she remained utterly indifferent, her focus elsewhere. Their encounter the night before had left Ling Yun feeling slighted, and now, the goddesses he once admired seemed beyond his reach. With a clenched jaw, his animosity shifted towards Yun Che, who smirked in response, sensing the waves of hostility directed his way. Ling Yun's newfound vendetta marked him as a potential threat, a fact that Yun Che didn't take lightly.
Xia Qingyue eyed Yun Che with the corner of her eyes. He seemed to observed her with focus. Him and his flock members. Retsu and Cang Yue. They would face each other in the future but she doesn't know which one of them she will face first.
With six victories already secured, the Blue Wind Imperial Family needed just six more to breeze through the day and skip the third day of the tournament—a plan Yun Che and the others had already mapped out. Back in their seating zone, Nemu sat calmly, her focus on designing Wind Glider blueprints for her fellow sisters. Yun Che had provided her with several designs to work with, and with her reading glasses perched on her nose, she exuded a serene yet captivating aura, reminiscent of a dedicated librarian lost in her craft.
"Nice one, Danna-sama. I made some tea for you," Mio chirped, her face beaming as she pulled Yun Che towards the kotatsu, presenting him with a dish from the array of bentos Kon had brought. "By the way, can you taste this one for me?"
"Thanks, Mio," Yun Che replied, accepting the beef stew she offered. With a curious gaze, he took a sip, only to be pleasantly surprised by its exquisite flavor. The tenderness of the meat and the harmonious blend of spices left him impressed. Glancing at Retsu, who watched him eat with a smile, he couldn't help but exclaim, "I like this. It's delicious!"
Relief washed over Mio's face, her eyes glistening with tears of joy. Yun Che found himself struck by her beauty in that moment, a genuine smile forming on his lips as he affectionately patted her head.
"Ara… That's Mio's cooking, Yuu-kun," Retsu interjected, her voice soft with pride. "She's been honing her skills and learning a lot. Today's bento was entirely her creation, prepared while you were tending to Nezuko this morning. Perhaps she'll even match us in the culinary arts one day, Yuu-kun."
Yun Che couldn't help but recall the countless times Mio had taken charge of the kitchen, her determination to improve evident despite the occasional culinary mishaps that left his stomach in turmoil. He admired her resilience and commitment, knowing that she pushed herself to excel in a field where she initially struggled. Despite their fierce rivalry as chefs, Retsu had patiently mentored Mio, guiding her through the intricacies of cooking and sharing valuable techniques. Yun Che had even contributed some of his own recipes to aid in her culinary journey.
"Danna-sama!!" Mio's sudden grateful embrace brought him back to the present, her excitement palpable as she hugged him tightly. Yun Che affectionately rubbed her head, his heart warmed by her genuine happiness.
"Hey now, well done, Mio," he reassured her in a soothing tone. "It was really delicious. All of us liked it. You passed. I might consider letting you be the head chef with Retsu."
Determined and spirited, Mio's eyes sparkled with newfound resolve as she addressed Retsu, her competitive spirit reignited. "Ret-chan, I won't lose again."
Retsu's smile widened at the challenge, acknowledging Mio's progress with genuine pride. "Ufuuu… our cooking cookoff is 59 to 0. You have a lot more to catch up, Mio-chan, but I can give today's cooking a win to you. So, it's 59 to 1."
"Muu, I won't lose next time," Mio declared, her happiness evident as she held her face in her hands, radiating with joy. With renewed determination, she retrieved the Divine Cooking Manual borrowed from Retsu, eager to delve deeper into the culinary arts.
"Brother in …. *Knocks," Yuanba enters their seating zone, prompting Yun Che to grab his head with his Iron Claw. "How many times! It's Aniki!" Yun Che reminds him firmly.
"I am sorry! I won my sixth round as well," Yuanba stammers, a proud grin spreading across his face.
"Good job, you little runt! Makes a good story for Mai later," Yun Che praises, teasing him about his crush on Mai. Yuanba blushes before taking his seat.
The rest of the group observes silently, contemplating Yuanba's potential as a suitable match for Mai. Despite his initial immaturity, they believe he has the capacity to mature and change for her sake.
"Danna-sama, I will prepare some apples for you," Mio announces, skillfully tossing the fruit into the air and slicing them with precision using her kitchen knife. Although others might find her knife-wielding skills intimidating, the group trusts her expertise.
Yuanba watches in awe as Mio deftly peels the apples at high speed. "Is.. isn't this dangerous?" he wonders nervously.
"Don't worry, she's very good with knives," Yun Che reassures him, his confidence in Mio's abilities unwavering. Once Mio finishes preparing the apples, Yuanba eyes the unfamiliar fruit in front of him with curiosity.
"Brother-in-law, this is…." Yuanba begins, puzzled.
"Apples?" Yun Che answers.
"What is an apple?" Yuanba asks, genuinely perplexed.
"Really? There are no common fruits in this world?" Yun Che responds incredulously, remembering the unique and unfamiliar fruits he encountered in the Xiao Clan territory. Though he acknowledges that the naming conventions in their wuxia universe may differ, he finds it surprising that common fruits like apples are unheard of.
"I know some like Whispering Lotusberry, Mystic Serpentfruit, Thundercloud Plum…." Yuanba begins to list out, his voice filled with enthusiasm.
"Okay-okay, I've heard enough," Yun Che interjects, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the wuxia-styled names.
"Yuu-sama, what do you think of this?" Nemu suddenly spoke up, displaying two hologram designs from her System interface. One resembled butterfly wings, while the other featured purple wings with an electro-based design. Yuanba was indeed surprised by the existence of holograms but knowing Nemu, he didn't ask any questions.
Impressed by the designs, Yun Che nods in approval. "Hoo, it's better, Nemu. Your designs are even better than mine. Did you improve them?"
"Yes, I will make them tonight. I even made Wings of Eternal Butterfly for Mio-neesama and Wings of the Stormrider for myself," Nemu explains, revealing her thoughtful gesture.
"What about us, Nemu-chan?" Retsu teases playfully, knowing Nemu's tendency to design for everyone.
Blushing slightly, Nemu smiles. "It's a secret. I will give them to you as a prize for winning the tournament," she says shyly, keeping the designs for Retsu, Yun Che, and Cang Yue under wraps.
"Sugoi, thank you so much, Nemu-chan," Retsu exclaims, embracing her sister tightly. Nemu's Kuudere nature only adds to her charm.
"Thank you, Nemu. I'll be sure to win and get my wings from you," Cang Yue adds, joining in the hug with Retsu.
"We'll win for sure," Yun Che declares confidently.
As for Yuanba, he expresses his preference to keep the Wings of First Flight original design, cherishing Nemu's original creation for giving him his first flight experience. Meanwhile, Nemu has special designs in mind for Yun Che, Cang Yue, and Retsu, which she plans to reveal after the tournament as a reward for their victories.
"What about me?" Kon suddenly interjects, his voice filled with curiosity.
"You have your own wings," Yun Che responds matter-of-factly, gesturing towards Kon's impressive white wings. As a Winged Golden Lion God, Kon possesses a unique and majestic set of wings.
"Korra, I wanted my own Wind Glider as well," Kon persists, expressing his desire for a Wind Glider like the others.
"Unless you find a way to change into a human. Might be," Yun Che muses, acknowledging the limitations of Kon's current form.
Transforming into his cub form, Kon reveals his magnificent white wings, which gleam in the light. "Take a look at this? They're just plain white wings," he remarks.
"Dude, you have beautiful, feathered wings. Real wings," Yun Che praises, admiring Kon's impressive features.
"Well, if you say so," Kon replies smugly, clearly pleased with the compliment.
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Blue Wind Imperial Family – Yun Che ----vs----- Blue Wind Profound Palace - Feng Bufan
--------------------------
"Thrown to the match as soon as it started," Cang Yue sighed, feeling a mix of amusement and exasperation.
"Oh, come on, man, I barely sat down," Yun Che grumbled playfully as he settled in to enjoy some tea with the others, only to be called upon so soon.
"Ufuuu, ganbarre, Yuu-kun!" Retsu cheered enthusiastically as she sipped her morning tea.
"Danna-sama, I'll give you a kiss if you win!" Mio chimed in mischievously, shooting a glance at Retsu, which the latter sighs.
"Fight, fight, Yuu-sama!" Nemu cutely cheered, waving her makeshift pom-poms again.
"You'll give me a kiss anyway," Yun Che teased Mio with a grin and pats Nemu's head.
"Second match of the day. Great job, mate!" Kon remarked, offering his support.
"Shut up... *sigh... Let's get this over with," Yun Che muttered as he prepared himself and slowly made his way down to the arena.
Meanwhile, Feng Bufan, Yun Che's opponent, watched him from behind. He remembered the fall of Prince Cang Lin's faction and how his own supporters within the palace had been dismantled. Feng Bufan had once dominated among the inner disciples in the palace due to his influence, but with Prince Cang Lin imprisoned, he had to lay low. Seeing Yun Che, a supporter of Princess Cang Yue, he saw him as an enemy. Despite winning five matches, Feng Bufan believed he could defeat Yun Che.
"Bufan, I advise you to concede. You can't match up to Yun Che," Qin Wushang cautioned, surprising Feng Bufan with his suggestion to forfeit.
"Palace Master, are you implying that you're throwing this match to him?" Feng Bufan challenged, his spirit on taking revenge against Cang Yue's champions.
"I speak from experience, Bufan. You can't win. Not against him," Qin Wushang insisted, recalling tales of Yun Che's strength and restraint.
"We'll see about that," Feng Bufan sneered, determined to prove Qin Wushang wrong as he strode toward the arena.
Both opponents stood on the arena as the first match of the second day. Despite a lot of arena fighting at the same time, Yun Che's match pretty much caught the attention of the Sword Discourse Arena for now.
Somehow, Xuanyuan Yufeng started to eyed him with interest. Ling Yuefeng noticed that her usual stare was soulless but seeing Yun Che somehow made her eyed him properly.
The tension in the arena was palpable as Yun Che and Feng Bufan stood facing each other, their animosity thick in the air.
"Both opponents ready?" the announcer called out, his voice echoing through the arena.
"Yun Che, I've been waiting for you," Feng Bufan sneered, his contempt evident in his tone.
"Hooo, well here I am," Yun Che replied coolly, his demeanor composed despite the provocation.
"Think you're funny, aren't you?" Feng Bufan gritted his teeth, his words laced with venom.
"Sort of," Yun Che retorted, his words cutting through the tension like a blade.
"You and that whore Cang Yue, tell me, did she whore herself to you to get you into being her champion?"
Then, Feng Bufan's words took a dark turn, hurling insults at Cang Yue without restraint. The air crackled with tension as Yun Che's anger simmered beneath his calm facade. Even Retsu, Mio, and Nemu wore expressions of fury, their loyalty to Cang Yue sparking within them like a flame.
Cang Yue's eyes widened in disbelief at the brazen insult, but she remained composed, knowing that her consort would handle the situation.
"She did, isn't she? Even probably whoring those people who stopped the rebellion. I lost palace influence because of her. Now, I am going to destroy her champion right in front of her. Proving that you can't protect a whore like her. Disciple of the swordsman? She probably even whored herself to him to be his disciple," Feng Bufan taunted, relishing in his provocation.
But Yun Che remained silent, his hands out of his pockets, a storm brewing beneath his calm exterior.
"There's no way you can beat a top inner disciple like me. You might beat those losers back in the palace, but you're still no match for me. I'll send you back to that whore beaten up. Face it, Yun Che! Your survival with me is Zero!!!" Feng Bufan boasted, his arrogance shining through.
And with that, the match began, but before the announcer could even finish his call, Yun Che was already in front of Feng Bufan, ready to prove him wrong with every strike.
"Collier…" Yun Che's voice cut through the air like a blade as he unleashed a devastating kick aimed at Feng Bufan's neck. The impact was thunderous, sending shockwaves through the arena as Feng Bufan was slammed into the ground, creating a visible crack beneath him.
The crowd gasped in disbelief at the sheer force of Yun Che's attack. But there was no room for mercy, not after Feng Bufan's insulting words towards Cang Yue. This was a moment for retribution, and Yun Che wasted no time in delivering it.
"Huarrggghhh…." Feng Bufan's agonized cry filled the arena as he struggled to rise, the pain from Yun Che's kick coursing through his body. The speed at which Yun Che had moved was dizzying, catching Feng Bufan completely off guard. Before he even had a chance to react, Yun Che's kick had already found its mark, sending him crashing to the ground with tremendous force.
"What the…." Ling Yun widened his eyes in astonishment, barely registering Yun Che's lightning-fast movement. Before he could blink, Yun Che was already in front of Feng Bufan.
"Did you see him move?!" Ling Jie exclaimed, mirroring the shock felt by everyone else in the arena.
"He's fast," Xia Qingyue exclaimed, her eyes widening as she struggled to keep up with Yun Che's lightning-quick movements. The other renowned disciples in the arena shared her astonishment.
A heavy silence descended upon the arena as Yun Che's fury simmered beneath his silence. Feng Bufan's insult towards Cang Yue had struck a raw nerve, igniting a flame of anger within Yun Che that fueled his every move.
With relentless determination, Feng Bufan struggled to rise, his body battered and bruised from Yun Che's earlier onslaught. But before he could regain his footing, Yun Che struck again with precision timing on his shoulder, his attack swift and unforgiving. "Epaule."
Executing a flawless one-handed handstand, Yun Che unleashed a devastating kick to Feng Bufan's ribs, sending him crashing to the ground once more. "Côtelette."
Using the momentum from the Côtelette, Yun Che spun gracefully, his movements fluid and precise, as he unleashed a swift kick to Feng Bufan's lower back. "Selle."
The crowd watched in stunned silence as Yun Che's ferocity seemed to intensify with each blow. His movements were fluid yet powerful, each strike a testament to his skill and strength. And as Feng Bufan lay sprawled on the ground, it became clear that Yun Che would stop at nothing to defend the honor of his beloved.
A piercing kick struck Feng Bufan's chest as Yun Che leaped into the air, his next strike delivered with bone-crushing force. "Poitrine."
With a sweeping motion, Yun Che's leg arced upward, delivering a final blow to his opponent's high stomach, sending Feng Bufan hurtling across the arena. "Gigot."
Yun Che displayed unparalleled skill and brutality, dispatching his burly opponent with a series of devastating kicks. Normally, such opponents would fall with a single strike, but today Yun Che seemed determined to make a statement. And he did it all without the use of his hands, relying solely on the strength and precision of his legs.
"Bastard!" Feng Bufan's enraged shout filled the arena as he struggled to stand once more, but Yun Che was already airborne, hurtling toward him with a vengeance.
"Mouton Shot" Yun Che's murmured as he soared into the air, channeling all his power into a flurry of kicks that struck with blinding speed. The force of his blows was so immense that they shattered the arena's barrier, sending Feng Bufan hurtling across the arena like a ragdoll before crashing into the next barrier with a resounding thud.
The crowd gasped in disbelief as they witnessed Yun Che's unprecedented display of strength, realizing that his attack had not only defeated his opponent but also shattered the very limits of the arena itself. It was a feat that had never been seen before, a testament to Yun Che's unrivaled power and skill. Little did they know if Yun Che really went overboard; he could shatter the entire barrier across his kick but that would expose his strength.
"Guess he doesn't need desserts after all," Yun Che murmured as he casually returned his hands to his pockets, a smirk playing on his lips reminiscing his fight with the Xiao Branch Sect representative back in New Moon Profound Palace.
For the first time in the tournament, a profound barrier shattered with a single kick, leaving the spectators in disbelief. The barriers were designed to prevent ring outs, typically as strong as brick walls, yet now they lay broken by Yun Che's unparalleled strength.
"Rascal, you went overboard!" Little Fairy's voice echoed in Yun Che's mind, her tone a mix of awe and admonishment.
"Amazing. Such power!" Chu Yueli exclaimed, her astonishment mirrored by Nezuko's enthusiastic applause. Xia Qingyue and her fellow disciples stood in stunned silence, unable to comprehend the sheer force behind Yun Che's kick. She was watching from nearby, felt a surge of shock. Yun Che had shattered a barrier using only his legs, a display of strength and skill that left her questioning what had transpired in the arena to provoke such a reaction from him.
Qin Wushang sighed, recalling his earlier warning to Feng Bufan. The consequences of insulting Cang Yue, Yun Che's fiancée, were now all too evident. Yun Che's return to his seat sparked discussions among the crowd, pondering how one man could possess such formidable combat prowess, relying solely on his legs.
"Yun Che…" Cang Yue greeted him warmly as he returned to their seating area.
"Sorry about that, got a bit carried away," Yun Che admitted sheepishly, scratching the back of his head.
"No need to apologize. Thank you for standing up for me," Cang Yue replied gratefully.
"You're my fiancée, Little Yue. I'll always have your back," Yun Che affirmed, gently patting her head. He had witnessed Cang Yue's journey firsthand—the highs and lows, the triumphs and struggles. He couldn't stand idly by when someone insulted her.
"A tad excessive, don't you think, Yuu-kun?" Retsu remarked with a hint of amusement.
"Maybe just a little," Yun Che conceded with a grin, glancing at the referee repairing the shattered barrier.
"I would've done the same. Little Yue is family now," Retsu declared firmly, voicing her unwavering support for Cang Yue. Before she could continue, an announcement interrupted their conversation.
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Blue Wind Imperial Family – Unohana Retsu ----vs------ Southern Jade Clan, Wu Jianlong
------------------------------------
"Ara… it's my turn again," Retsu remarked with a confident smile as she readied her parasol.
"Go get 'em, honey…" Yun Che whispered his 'call' to her causing a flutter of excitement in Retsu's chest. He had a way of igniting her spirit, and now she felt invigorated as she made her way to the arena.
As Retsu approached, the crowd's attention shifted to her. Unlike most of the women in the tournament who opted for practical fighting attire, Retsu's choice of clothing hinted at a deceptive elegance. Yet, beneath her poised exterior lay a formidable fighter, as many had learned in her previous matches.
"Wu Jianlong, of the Southern Jade Clan," her opponent introduced himself, drawing a sword and shield.
"Please forgive me, fairy," he added, his tone respectful but tinged with determination.
"A sword and shield? An interesting choice," Retsu remarked, observing Wu Jianlong's equipment. With a flick of her parasol, she signaled her readiness.
In response, Wu Jianlong adjusted his stance, anticipating Retsu's move. As she released the familiar air blast, he managed to brace himself, deflecting the attack with his shield. Retsu's smirk revealed a hint of approval at his quick reaction.
"Not bad for a Fifth Level Spirit Profound Realm," she mused aloud, acknowledging Wu Jianlong's skill even as she prepared to unleash more of her own.
Retsu hadn't expected the blast to defeat Wu Jianlong; it was merely a probing move, a test of his defenses. Sensing an opportunity, Wu Jianlong swiftly closed the distance, engaging Retsu in close-quarters combat. Knowing that her air attack would be ineffective at such range, Retsu anticipated his move and wielded her parasol like a weapon.
With a confident smirk, Wu Jianlong increased his speed, aiming to slice through the parasol with his sword. To his surprise, however, his strike was abruptly halted, his blade meeting unexpected resistance. Both he and the onlookers were stunned as the seemingly delicate parasol blocked his sword, its integrity unscathed.
"Ufuuu… Did you really think that air blast was the only trick up my sleeve?" Retsu teased, her voice carrying a hint of amusement as she effortlessly pushed Wu Jianlong back.
Wu Jianlong's eyes widened in realization. This was no ordinary parasol; it was as hard as steel, capable of absorbing and repelling his attacks. Undeterred, Retsu capitalized on his surprise, leaping forward and swinging her parasol like a club. Wu Jianlong hastily raised his shield to block, but to his astonishment, the parasol struck his shield squarely, sending him staggering backward several meters.
Despite wearing a kimono, typically restrictive in movement, Retsu's agility remained unhindered. Her timing and precision were impeccable, demonstrating her mastery over both her weapon and her attire.
The crowd watched in disbelief as Retsu wielded her parasol with unexpected prowess, using it alternately as a club and a shield. The question on everyone's mind lingered like an echo: what kind of parasol was that?
Wu Jianlong inspected his shield and discovered a dent, while Retsu's parasol remained unscathed despite the force of her blows. Its weight should have been impossible for her to handle with such ease, yet she wielded it effortlessly with one hand.
Undeterred by his initial failure, Wu Jianlong leaped forward, determined to breach Retsu's defenses. He attempted to exploit her openings with quick, probing attacks, only to find himself thwarted at every turn. Even when Retsu opened her parasol, she used it as a shield skillfully to deflect his strikes, anticipating his movements with uncanny precision.
Frustration etched across Wu Jianlong's face as his attempts to overpower Retsu proved futile. Despite his best efforts to exploit her weaknesses, she seemed to effortlessly block every attack, her parasol becoming an impenetrable barrier.
"You can keep defending while I keep attacking!" Wu Jianlong taunted, his frustration evident.
"Ufuu… I wasn't planning on defending," Retsu replied in her mind, contemplating her next move. With a resigned sigh, she closed her parasol, prompting Wu Jianlong to launch another assault. But this time, Retsu swung her parasol with increased force, sending him hurtling towards the barrier. His body collided with it, and he slumped to the ground, unconscious.
The arena fell into stunned silence, the audience grappling with the revelation of Retsu's remarkable strength and mastery over her unique weapon. With a sigh, Retsu hoped that her next opponent would provide a more satisfying challenge.
"Amazing, what kind of parasol is that?" Cang Yue marveled, turning to Yun Che for an explanation.
"She requested it to match her kimono," Yun Che began, a hint of pride in his voice. "It's a creation of mine, a myriad parasol. Originally, it was meant as a hidden air blast launcher, but I added a shield function to it as well. Surprisingly, Retsu has adapted to its capabilities remarkably well. The parasol is made with Mio's threads infused with Vibramantium. Soft to the touch and light as a feather, but when attacked with great force, the material instantly hardens like steel and absorbs vibrations. Due to its hardness, she can use it as a blunt weapon."
"Clever," Cang Yue remarked, impressed by Yun Che's ingenuity.
"Sigh," Yun Che sighed with a sheepish grin. "She asked for a normal parasol, and I went over mod as usual."
"Over mod?" Cang Yue inquired, intrigued by the term.
"It's when I tend to over-create or over-engineer things," Yun Che explained. "You ask for a simple bow and arrow, and I end up giving you a crossbow capable of shooting explosive bolts, something like that."
Cang Yue nodded in understanding, realizing Yun Che's penchant for innovation.
"Well, her opponent is lucky she hasn't used the last function yet," Yun Che remarked casually.
"There's another function?!" Cang Yue exclaimed, surprised.
"Kind of. It's a function that, if she were to use it, her opponent might need to sign their death warrant," Yun Che replied with a shrug, downplaying the gravity of the situation.
As Retsu descended from the stage, her gaze met Yun Che's and Cang Yue's, who seemed to be preparing for their own matches by standing nearby her stage. Her future opponents glanced at her, their eyes lingering on the parasol she now used as a sunshade. It was a seemingly innocuous accessory, yet they knew its true potential—a weapon capable of transforming into a formidable tool of combat. Some among them even contemplated conceding should they find themselves facing her in battle. After all, what defense could withstand such a versatile and powerful weapon?
Meanwhile, in the Burning Heaven Sect, Fen Juecheng's frustration was evident. His meticulously laid plans were unraveling faster than he could concoct new schemes. Each of his hired assailants had been swiftly dispatched as though they were nothing more than minor obstacles. Perhaps, he mused bitterly, the strength of Yun Che, Retsu, and Cang Yue far surpassed the initial intelligence he had gathered. Could it be that three True Profound Realm cultivators possessed such formidable prowess? The sight of Retsu effortlessly defeating her opponent with a single blow from her parasol only served to fuel his growing apprehension.
She defeated her opponent with a parasol. A freakin parasol!
"Yuu-kun! Ehee… this parasol is truly a remarkable weapon," Retsu exclaimed as she approached them, effortlessly wielding the seemingly innocuous Japanese parasol.
"You haven't used the last function yet?" Yun Che inquired, his admiration evident in his voice. Retsu, as always, seemed to possess an arsenal of surprises, even in this lifetime. Her graceful victories belied the raw power she wielded, especially evident in the brutal final swing of her parasol.
"Ufuuu, there hasn't been an opponent worthy enough to warrant it. Perhaps I'll indulge in it later, just for fun," Retsu replied, her grin concealed behind her veil.
Before long, Cang Yue's name was called, signaling her turn to take the stage. Thanks to their early arrival, they were spared the repetitive back-and-forth trips between their seating zone and the arena. As Cang Yue stepped into the spotlight, her opponent emerged wielding dual swords. Unfazed, Cang Yue drew her own blades, Shusui and Shisui.
Watching from the sidelines, Ma Tsu, the swordsmith of the Heavenly Sword Villa, widened his eyes in awe. The swords wielded by Princess Cang Yue were exquisite works of craftsmanship, each worth a fortune. If a single sword fetched nearly 20 million Purple Profound Coins, what value did her trio of blades hold? Crafted by the legendary swordsman who once dominated the Moon Empress's gathering, these swords were now in the hands of his disciple.
Engaging her opponent, Cang Yue deftly parried each sword strike, showing a newfound seriousness in her approach. Despite her skill, she respected her opponent's determination to win. In the end, she disarmed him with a swift strike, her respect evident even in victory.In the end pointing both of her swords at his neck.
With her second opponent of the day swiftly defeated, Cang Yue exhaled a sigh of relief, marveling at her flawless execution of the Nitoryu, the Two Sword Style. Despite her victory, she couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment. None of her opponents had yet proved worthy of her employing the Santoryu, the Three Sword Style, a technique she had been eager to showcase.
As the Blue Wind Imperial Family members notched up seven wins each, the arena buzzed with their collective dominance. Even formidable figures like Xia Qingyue, Shui Wushuang, and others effortlessly secured their victories, with some already boasting nine consecutive wins. It seemed as though victory came too easily for them, with opponents either surrendering or conceding defeat before facing their full strength.
However, amidst her triumphs, Cang Yue couldn't shake the unsettling feeling of being observed by a particular individual within her group. His unsettling gaze bore into her, hinting at a confrontation yet to come. Steeling herself for what lay ahead, she resheathed her sword and gracefully departed the arena, her eyes firmly set on the challenges that awaited her.
Amidst the admiration directed towards the Blue Wind Imperial Family, their opponents now trembled at the mere thought of facing them, with some even considering conceding defeat before the battle began. It was a stark contrast to the underestimation they had faced before, a testament to their newfound prowess on the battlefield. Yun Che, while victorious in his battles, found the line of opponents lacking in excitement, save for the satisfying defeat he delivered to Feng Bufan with a well-placed kick. He knew Bufan's animosity stemmed from his connection to Cang Yue, a fact that only fueled his disdain for the arrogant nobleman because of his insult towards Cang Yue. Yet, Qin Wushang saw through Bufan's intentions, understanding the depth of his resentment towards him, not the Blue Wind Profound Palace.
As Yun Che glanced towards the Heavenly Sword Villa's section, his attention was drawn to Xuanyuan Yufeng, who seemed to be observing him intently. Despite his efforts to erase her memories of their encounter the previous night, her gaze remained fixed on him, albeit with a calm expression that belied her curiosity. On the other hand, Little Fairy's continuous protests and glares hinted at her simmering frustration, while Nezuko, under Chu Yueli's care, appeared to be enjoying herself, fostering a bond that rumors exaggerated into wild tales of familial ties.
But Yun Che pushed aside these distractions, focusing instead on the battles that lay ahead, eager to secure twelve victory for each of his team and earn a well-deserved day off tomorrow.
------------------------------
In the ethereal realm of Yun Che's inner world, Jasmine and the other spirits watched the tournament battles unfold with rapt attention, as if they were viewing a thrilling movie. Each fight was meticulously compiled by the system for their enjoyment, and the snow sisters, Yoru, Mizu, and Kaze shared a delightful tea session, nestled together on a picnic sheet spread out for their comfort. Ryuu coiled around Jasmine's neck like a loyal guardian, while Tori snoozed peacefully beside her.
Meanwhile, Hoyuu and Old Zangetsu perched atop Yun Che's spirit tree, their presence adding a touch of levity to the scene. Hoyuu munched on popcorn with gusto, his eyes sparkling with amusement, while Old Zangetsu chuckled heartily at Yun Che's unconventional tactics, particularly when he unleashed the Thousand Years of Death attack on his unsuspecting opponent.
Despite her reservations about Yun Che's character, Jasmine couldn't help but be drawn into the excitement of the tournament. With a resigned sigh, she decided to set aside her concerns for now and immerse herself in the spectacle unfolding before them.
