Chapter 198: The Second Round (I)

As the second round of the tournament commenced, the elders of Heavenly Sword Villa were astonished by the overwhelming turnout. The number of guests had far exceeded their expectations, and they quickly expanded the seating area to accommodate over 10,000 spectators—an impressive increase from the first round.

Following Cang Yue's defeat of Ling Feiyu and Yun Che's victory over Xiao Zhen, both the Xiao Sect and Heavenly Sword Villa were forced to compensate for their losses and rely on their remaining elites. Ling Yun and Ling Jie remained strong, the same goes for Xiao Kuangfeng and Xiao Kuanyu from the Xiao Sect. Meanwhile, the Burning Heaven Clan and Frozen Cloud Asgard were still holding strong, with no disciples lost. Now, all participants cast wary eyes toward Yun Che, Retsu, and Cang Yue as the dazzling newcomers.

The Heavenly Sword Villa and Xiao Sect found themselves drowning in scorn and humiliation following the crushing defeat of Ling Feiyu in the first round. Losing in the prestigious tournament was one thing, but to be eliminated so early—before even reaching the round of 32—was a disgrace they hadn't anticipated. The blow was especially hard to swallow given that the loss came at the hands of newcomers like Cang Yue and Yun Che. For sects as revered as Heavenly Sword Villa and the Xiao Sect, the sting of such an upset reverberated not only among its disciples but also through the murmurs of the public, whose derision now hung over them like a storm cloud. Their reputation, painstakingly built over generations, now bore an ugly blemish.

The Wu Clan had no choice but to swallow their pride, their plan for chaos completely foiled by Nezuko, who had shockingly revealed her cultivation level at the Peak Sky Profound Realm. Many of the guests had gathered to catch a glimpse of the legendary Heaven's Child and the new powerhouse of the Imperial Family, Xue Ling. Yet, the Wu Clan wasn't without secrets—they still had tricks prepared. One of their disciples was now classified as "missing," although, in reality, he had been overtaken by his panther form, his humanity swallowed whole. Currently detained by Heavenly Sword Villa, there would be no link traced back to them.

In a gesture of respect for the emperor, Yun Che accompanied Cang Yue alongside their small family as she rode above her father's Imperial Flying Ark on their way to the tournament. The emperor himself had decided to personally escort his daughter as The Imperial Family has made it to the second round. Meanwhile, Yoruko had to take control of Nezuko's faux body once more, fulfilling a request for her presence from Chu Yueli—much to Xue Ling's frustration, as the former had managed to make the request first. Xue Ling was left to silently accept her rival's foresight.

"Are you two ready for the day?" Yun Che asked Cang Yue and Retsu as they awaited their arrival at the Sword Discourse Arena for the second day of the tournament.

"Oh, yes… Yuu-kun. I've been waiting for this since yesterday," Retsu replied, twirling gracefully to reveal her new attire. She had traded her pink kimono from the previous first day for an elegant new one. The kimono was a soft, grayish-white with intricate deep blue designs and darker accents, giving her a refined, timeless look. The wide sleeves flowed as she moved, enhancing the graceful elegance of her movements. Her black hair was styled in a neat long braid cascading down her back, adorned with a delicate arrangement of white and light purple flowers on the left side, matching those tied around her waist.

Retsu's weaponized parasol had been modified by the system to complement her kimono, now shaded in dark navy blue and white. She forewent a full veil but wore an elegant veiled Uchikatsugi, a headdress that gave an ethereal touch to her look. The veil was enhanced with the system's beauty suppression mode, allowing her to see the world clearly while keeping onlookers from seeing her face, preserving her mystique.

Mio and Nemu stood close by, embodying their distinct styles with elegance. Mio wore her signature spiderweb-themed kimono, the dark, intricate patterns lending her a haunting allure, while Nemu remained dressed in her traditional Miko priestess outfit, radiating a calm, spiritual presence. Like Retsu, both had adorned themselves with modified Uchikatsugi headdresses.

However, through Yun Che's and his companions' eyes, the effect was quite different. The beauty suppression mode activated by the system made the veils appear almost invisible to them, as if they wore unadorned headdresses. Yun Che couldn't help but be impressed by how thoroughly the beauty suppression mode concealed their elegance from prying eyes, preserving their mystique while allowing him and their family to see their true forms.

Cang Yue wore her unique battle kimono, inspired by the Moon Empress's Isu dress with slightly altered color. Together, she and her companions created an ethereal, almost celestial presence at the bow of the ship, gazing out over the dense forest below. Their aura was so commanding that even the guards and attendants kept a respectful distance. Nemu jotted down notes on her notepad, while Mio quietly munched on rice crackers she had brought along for snacks.

Yun Che glanced at Cang Yue, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "Did you get enough energy last night?" he asked, knowing she hadn't slept with them, choosing instead to rest by the window to absorb moonlight.

"A solid ten percent, thanks to the full moon," Cang Yue replied with a sigh. "But I'd rather not use it if I don't have to. I didn't make any progress with my Rokushiki, either, thanks to yesterday's interference." The events of the previous day were still fresh in her mind, leaving her somewhat frustrated.

"Well, let's hope our opponents don't cause enough trouble to make you use your powers, Little Yue," Retsu said, fanning herself delicately. Nemu nodded in agreement, sharing in her sister's sentiment.

Mio grinned mischievously. "You could ask Shin Yue for help."

"No! She's far too wild," Cang Yue protested, shaking her head. "She'd probably end up destroying the entire arena just for fun." Shin Yue was her last resort—Yuyun had restricted Shin Yue's energy usage, though the restriction could be lifted if Cang Yue faced true danger. Still, Cang Yue dreaded asking for that kind of help.

"Agreed," Yun Che said, nodding thoughtfully. Shin Yue was indeed a wild card, prone to wreaking total destruction in a fight. In his mind, if Yachiru was known for toying with her opponents, Shin Yue preferred pure, unrestrained mayhem.

"Oi Teme! Why didn't you wake me up yesterday?" Kon's voice suddenly shouted from Yun Che's shoulder, clearly disgruntled. He had missed out on all of the previous day's excitement—Yun Che's date, Cang Yue's awakening, everything.

"Says the one snoring in the hot spring," Yun Che replied, sighing as he remembered Kon floating and snoring away, completely oblivious in the steaming pools of Yun Che's inner world. Rather than wake him, Yun Che had simply let him rest.

"That bird and dragon turned me into a chew toy," Kon huffed. "It was exhausting trying to get away from them." In his inner world, Kon had been relentlessly chased by Mizu and Kaze, not to mention Ryuu the dragon and Tori the phoenix, who had the unfortunate habit of playfully nibbling on him.

"Not my problem they see you as one," Yun Che shrugged, entirely unfazed as Kon jabbed him in the face with his plushy arm.

Nearby, Yoruko—inhabiting Nezuko's body—was laughing softly as Xue Ling clung to her like she was her personal teddy bear.

"Yue'er… can I keep Nezuko with me today?" Xue Ling asked, cradling Nezuko, who wore her formal Grand Imperial Protector's dress. She had wanted to join the others in a kimono, but duty had called.

"No can do, sis. Sister Yueli requested her yesterday," Cang Yue replied, a hint of exasperation in her tone. Chu Yueli had been unusually persistent, her calls coming repeatedly through the Profound Communicator—a sleek, rune-inscribed device Yun Che had designed, akin to a mystical cell phone. Cang Yue had distributed them sparingly, and Chu Yueli had been quick to make use of hers.

The moment Chu Yueli's voice echoed through the communicator on its maiden use, her first request was immediate and direct: Nezuko. Likely, it was a result of the events from the day before.

Xue Ling narrowed her eyes. "And if I don't want to let Nezuko go?"

Nezuko giggled, but Cang Yue stepped in diplomatically. "Come on, Sis, let Nezuko spend a bit of time with her. It's only fair—you had her all to yourself yesterday."

Xue Ling sighed, eventually relenting. "Fine… but if anything happens, I'm taking her back immediately."

"My, it seems I'll have to use Nezuko's form in secret if Sis and Sister Yueli keep acting like this," Cang Yue sighed, watching as Xue Ling's attachment to Nezuko grew after spending just one day with her.

Yun Che couldn't help but sweatdrop at the scene. Xue Ling fully accepted him as Cang Yue's fiancé, yet she never looked at him with the same warmth she held for his alternate self, Mihawk. Her feelings for Mihawk ran deep, and Yun Che was unsure how she'd react if he ever revealed the truth. For now, he decided to let her be, musing over how he might gently guide her feelings away from Mihawk someday.

Just then, Cang Wanhe approached, unaccompanied by escorts. "Yue'er," he called softly.

"Father," Cang Yue responded, bowing respectfully. Yun Che and the others turned their attention toward him as Xue Ling also bowed, still holding Nezuko close.

"I hope you'll be careful out there," Cang Wanhe said, his tone laced with concern.

Cang Yue gave him a reassuring smile. "I will, Father. Though I must admit, I'm a bit nervous. Making it to the second round on my own, with my own power… if it weren't for Che'er, I'd still be the timid princess, watching from the sidelines. I'd likely be running from Fen Juecheng, or worse, stuck as some political pawn." She blushed, realizing how much her life had changed since recruiting Yun Che and his friends at the New Moon Profound Palace. She hadn't anticipated it leading her to this moment.

"Che'er?" Yun Che raised an eyebrow, surprised by the endearment.

"Well… you are my consort, aren't you?" Cang Yue said, blushing deeper. "Calling you by your full name feels so formal. Besides, I have complete confidence in your strength. I'm not sure if I'll make it to the finals, but I'm determined to secure a top place."

"Don't worry, I'll make sure to win this for you," Yun Che said with a reassuring smile toward Cang Yue. He had promised to win, and he intended to keep that promise.

"Oh, look at you two, acting as if I'm invisible," Retsu pouted, feigning offense.

"Sorry, Retsu, I mean we will win this for Little Yue." Yun Che chuckled.

"Ufufu… being one big family together—it's so exciting!" Mio said, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. Nemu nodded in agreement, a gentle smile on her face. Hearing this, Cang Yue's expression bright with happiness.

Cang Wanhe sighed wistfully. "I only wish your stepmothers could have been as kind as this. If they had been, perhaps Ying'er would still be with us…" He paused, reflecting on how far his daughter had come. Cang Yue had not only grown stronger with Yun Che's guidance but had also reached the second round of the tournament—a feat the Imperial Family had only dreamt of for centuries. He remembered her promise on his sickbed: to bring honor back to their family by finding those who could help restore its legacy. And here she was, with a family of powerful allies at her side.

"Father…" Cang Yue stepped forward and hugged him, feeling the weight of his words.

Cang Wanhe then turned to Yun Che with a hopeful expression. "Yun Che, I trust you to take care of Yue'er, just as you do with your other fiancées."

Yun Che nodded solemnly. "Don't worry, old man. I didn't train her to leave her on her own. She deserves happiness, just like the others."

Xue Ling, listening closely, also nodded with determination. She, too, silently vowed to protect Cang Yue, for as long as she lived.

"And Kon-sama will protect her, too!" Kon suddenly declared, his voice full of pride. Both Cang Wanhe and Cang Yue laughed, remembering how Kon had bravely defended her during the rebellion.

"Maybe your full lion form will come in handy," Yun Che teased with a smirk.

"Korra!" Kon swung a plushy paw at Yun Che's face, but Yun Che only grinned, knowing that Kon would be an invaluable protector for Cang Yue. In fact, with allies like Kon and even Jasmine—who had developed a soft spot for Cang Yue due to her being Xuyi's successor—Cang Yue was safer than she knew. Yun Che felt confident that, with all of them watching over her, she had a bright future ahead.

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"Mama!" Nezuko called out joyfully, running up to Chu Yueli as Yun Che's group passed by the Asgardian Fairies on their way to the arena. Having just disembarked, they caught the attention of Xia Qingyue, whose gaze lingered on Yun Che a little longer than he expected. He couldn't help but feel that she was watching his every move.

"Rascal, please restrain yourself if possible," Little Fairy cautioned him telepathically.

"No promises, but we'll keep our strength in check," Yun Che replied, sharing a knowing nod with Retsu.

"So that's Yun Che," Gong Yuxian murmured, observing Cang Yue standing beside Xue Ling, though her focus was on Yun Che and the women with him. What puzzled her was the strange absence of cultivation auras from him and his companions. Even the emperor and his escorts radiated profound energy, and Princess Cang Yue's presence was unmistakable. Yet, these people appeared as ordinary humans, without a trace of spiritual aura yet possessed immense strength—a mystery she intended to keep a close eye on.

Cang Yue bit back a laugh as she felt Xue Ling's internal frustration spike when Nezuko raced over to Chu Yueli. Chu Yueli, hidden behind her veil, smirked in satisfaction as she bent down to hug Nezuko, who joyfully ran back to give Xue Ling one last hug before returning to Chu Yueli's side. Yun Che could only sigh at Yoruko's playful nature; while her as Nezuko took her duties seriously, her bubbly spirit always drove her to explore and connect with those she liked.

Yun Che couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of Yoruko, who had taken her role as Nezuko far too seriously. While she had been told to just play along, she had fully immersed herself in character, going so far as to embody every mannerism and gesture of the innocent child. The way she carried herself, the way her eyes narrowed in determination, even the occasional flare of her energy—all of it was Nezuko to the core. 

Cang Yue, standing beside him, sighed in resignation. It was clear that she'd need to create her own persona now should she assumed as Nezuko again in the future, something that could match the intensity of Yoruko's commitment. She had been trying to keep things lighthearted, but it seemed like Yoruko taking her role a bit too seriously. 

Meanwhile, Xue Ling silently vowed to make sure Nezuko would be with her the entire next day, even if it meant guarding the little one fiercely.

After exchanging glances and brief greetings, the Frozen Cloud Asgard party moved to their designated seating area, with Nezuko happily trotting after them. Gong Yuxian observed the little one with an approving smile, already contemplating how Nezuko's presence could benefit the Asgard based on Cang Yue's proposition. Knowing that Nezuko's 'mother' was a fellow Asgardian member gave Gong Yuxian leverage to suggest that Nezuko stay within the sect. Her father, however, was a different matter—while Gong Yuxian doubted he'd leave his daughter unattended, she also wondered if he'd see reason in letting Nezuko flourish under Asgardian care if he himself pushed her into this height without their help.

For now, she would respect that Nezuko was under Princess Cang Yue's watch, though Chu Yueli's proximity offered her an advantage. The thought of officially welcoming Nezuko as an Asgard disciple intrigued her, and if Chu Yueli could secure a favorable arrangement, it might become a reality. Yet, Gong Yuxian was aware of the nuances. Dracule Mihawk, Nezuko's father, wasn't just a powerful cultivator; he was the one who'd cultivated Nezuko to her current strength. Perhaps he would be open to offering insights to the Asgardian disciples in exchange for Nezuko's formal membership.

A sly smile played on Gong Yuxian's lips. If her plan succeeded, Dracule Mihawk's guidance could fortify Frozen Cloud Asgard's defenses, helping them avoid the feared thousand-year calamity. She had seen Nezuko's astounding potential firsthand the day before, having trailed her daughters discreetly. Even at her highest speed, Gong Yuxian struggled to keep up with the Chu sisters, who flew effortlessly in their pursuit. But what struck her most was watching Nezuko face off against Sky Profound Realm assassins with remarkable skill, taking down dozens armed with nothing more than a single knife. Nezuko's ability to mimic her opponents' arts in the midst of battle was astonishing—each move she observed became part of her own arsenal. With such adaptability, the longer the fight, the more formidable Nezuko became.

Gong Yuxian's thoughts drifted to what Nezuko might accomplish with the Frozen Cloud Arts. If she mastered those techniques like how she mimic those arts, her comprehension could eventually surpass Xia Qingyue's. Having both Chu Yueli and Nezuko in the Asgard could ensure unprecedented protection for the sect. And Mihawk's wisdom, if shared, might inspire a generation of small geniuses within Frozen Cloud Asgard, each potentially as talented as Nezuko or Xia Qingyue.

Now, the only challenge was securing an arrangement with the great swordsman himself.

Chu Yueli, meanwhile, had far simpler intentions. She was simply thrilled to spend the day with Nezuko, savoring every moment with the little one she had come to adore. Unlike her mother.

As she held Nezuko's hand, she couldn't help but smile, completely oblivious to Gong Yuxian's deeper plans for Frozen Cloud Asgard's future. Today, her focus was entirely on making Nezuko feel safe and cherished.

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"I guess there are perks to being escorted," Yun Che mused, noticing how the usual crowd of martial enthusiasts waiting outside kept a respectful distance today, intimidated by the presence of the Imperial Family and Xue Ling.

"Right? I was actually gearing up to knock a few of them out if they got too close. It's annoying," Mio grumbled, crossing her arms. Retsu ended up calming the poor spider girl for her willingness to protect them.

"Wow… there's even more people here than yesterday," Kon noted, gazing around in wonder at the bustling crowd.

"Yeah, it's a little sad, though, for the ones who ended up in the losing group yesterday. I heard hardly anyone showed up to watch them, just a few of the defeated sects," Yun Che commented thoughtfully. Beside him, Cang Yue sighed, feeling a surge of pride mixed with relief.

She thought back to the years the Imperial Family spent at the bottom of the ranks, often looked down upon or outright mocked. But this time, they had made it to the second round with real strength and skill. Cang Yue could finally stand among the people without shame or apprehension; she could hold her head high, knowing the Imperial Family's days of humiliation were behind them. Their performance was undeniable proof that they deserved respect, and no one dared to scoff anymore.

After all, in the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament, a sect's placement defined its standing for the next three years. For those who had long dominated the tournament, securing a high rank was essential for maintaining their influence and prestige. But for a previously overlooked or underestimated Imperial Family, a sudden rise in the rankings was transformational—often catapulting them to fame and granting them long-sought legitimacy. And now, the Blue Wind Imperial Family had fought its way into the top 1,000, a position that once seemed beyond reach.

"You alright?" Yun Che nudged her gently, pulling her from her thoughts.

"Yes… just a bit nervous," she admitted, managing a small smile.

"Don't be. We've got this." Yun Che gave her a reassuring thumbs-up, his confidence infectious.

Just like before, they were assigned new numbers for the second round, ranging from 1 to 1,000. With their numbers in hand, they made their way to their new seating area, ready to take on the next stage of the tournament.

The Imperial Family's high seating zone offered a perfect view of the arena, where the next round's intensity was palpable. Just below them was the contestant seating, teeming with anticipation and quiet resolve. It wasn't long before Yun Che noticed the seats of the four great sects positioned close by, with Frozen Cloud Asgard's section within clear sight as well. Nearby, he even spotted Yuanba's Blue Wind Profound Palace, and, to his surprise, Yuanba was headed their way—with company.

"Mai-san? Mei-chan?" Retsu's eyes widened, recognizing the two sisters trailing behind him. She hadn't expected to see them here.

"Big brother!" Mei exclaimed, running to Yun Che, who patted her head with a warm smile.

"It's a pleasant surprise to see you both here," Cang Yue added, noticing how the sisters had dressed up for the occasion.

"Yuanba insisted we come along," Mai explained, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "He said we could learn a lot about martial arts by watching the tournament. He even flew us here himself!"

"Oh, he did, did he?" Yun Che's grin widened. "So, Nemu gives you wings, and the first thing you do is use them to pick up a date. Not bad, Yuanba."

"B-Brother-in-law, it's not like that!" Yuanba stammered, his face flushing.

"Sure, sure…" Yun Che chuckled, clearly unconvinced, though he couldn't help but admire Yuanba's clever move.

Mai hesitated, looking around at the elegance and prestige surrounding her. Though she'd had her moments of renown back home, here, among the elite of the martial world, she felt small. Yet Cang Yue's smile was welcoming, warm enough to dispel her reservations.

"You can sit with us," Cang Yue insisted, gesturing to the soft seating pillows arranged on the tatami.

"Eh, we're just… peasants," Mai murmured, glancing over at the Emperor and Grand Imperial Protector Xue Ling. It was daunting to imagine herself sitting in the Imperial Family's midst.

Cang Yue chuckled. "Peasants, maybe, but also friends! Come now, don't make me beg you to join us."

Mai blushed, finally giving in. "No, no… having the princess beg—okay, we'll sit here."

As Mai and Mei settled onto the plush tatami, Yun Che subtly expanded it to give them extra room. Retsu poured them cups of Japanese tea, its delicate aroma wafting up and captivating the sisters immediately. Mai's eyes lit up as she took a sip, savoring the smooth, unfamiliar flavor.

"This tea… it's incredible!" Mai said, wide-eyed. Even Mei was swept away, cradling her cup with a look of pure bliss.

The air around them suddenly felt heavy with the weight of formality as Cang Wanhe, the Emperor of the Blue Wind Empire, and Xue Ling, the Grand Imperial Protector, approached their seating area. Mai and Mei instantly froze, the sight of the Emperor and the Grand Imperial Protector catching them completely off guard. They stammered, bowing deeply in reverence as they hurriedly stood, not quite knowing how to behave in the presence of such esteemed figures.

"Emperor... Cang... Wanhe. Grand Imperial Protector, Xue Ling," Mai stammered, her face flushed with nervousness, as she awkwardly bowed alongside Mei.

Cang Yue, standing next to them, gently urged the two girls to rise, though their heads remained bowed, unable to hide their awe and respect. The moment was almost comical to Yun Che and the others, who exchanged knowing looks and suppressed their laughter. It was not every day that peasants found themselves face-to-face with the Emperor of the Blue Wind Empire, let alone his daughter and the Grand Imperial Protector.

All in the same room.

Even Yuanba, despite his usual bravado, lowered his head in respect. "Please, don't be so formal. Friends of Yue'er are our friends too. You must be Mai and Mei, the sisters who have earned her respect," he said kindly, his voice warm and reassuring.

Mai, still in shock, managed a shaky smile. "Y-yes, we're her friends… We… we are so grateful for her kindness, and… we… thank you for coming to talk to us…" she trailed off, overwhelmed by the attention.

Cang Wanhe chuckled softly and placed a hand on his daughter's shoulder. "Please, rise. There's no need for such formality. Yue'er has always been wise in choosing her friends. You two are our honored guests today. One day, we hope to visit your noodle shop and taste your famous noodles. Even Xue Ling here agrees they are the best she's ever had."

Xue Ling, who had been standing quietly by the Emperor's side, nodded with a smile. She had visited the noodle shop alongside Nezuko in disguise as Kie the day before and had thoroughly enjoyed the meal. It was clear she understood why Nezuko, who had once been a little orphan, felt such affection for the two sisters.

"Yes, please do. We'll prepare the best meals fit for an emperor," Mai replied, her voice trembling slightly. She was already thinking ahead, wondering how she might upgrade her shop to accommodate even more customers, especially with the Emperor himself planning to visit. It was an opportunity beyond her wildest dreams.

"A normal one will do," Cang Wanhe said with a smile, gesturing for Mai to sit. He then turned his attention to his daughter. "Now, are the three of you ready for your matches?"

"Absolutely, Father. I'll give it my all," Cang Yue responded, raising her fist confidently, her eyes blazing with determination. It was clear she was pumped up for the tournament.

Cang Wanhe's expression softened, but a hint of concern lingered. "Despite everything that happened yesterday, it's still hard to believe you're here. I just hope... your other self isn't planning to show up today." His tone turned more cautious, the worry in his voice unmistakable. He had seen what Shin Yue—his daughter's rebellious alter ego—was capable of, and it made him uneasy.

"I'll be fine," Cang Yue reassured him, a gentle smile on her face. "Shin Yue won't appear. As long as I keep calm, she's not coming out." There was confidence in her voice, though the shadow of her other self lingered in her eyes for just a moment.

Mai's brow furrowed with confusion. "Other self?" She glanced at Retsu, who was watching the exchange with a knowing grin.

"It's a long story," Retsu said with a mischievous smirk.

As the announcer's voice echoed across the arena, excitement buzzed through the audience. This second round was no ordinary matchup—the stakes were higher, and every participant's resolve would be tested. The main venue was packed with spectators eager to witness the spectacle, while those eliminated in the first round were relegated to the quieter, less glamorous secondary venue, competing for lower rankings.

Yun Che looked over the thirty small arenas with a contemplative gaze. With three hundred fighters, each contestant would have to face a grueling fifteen matches—a far cry from the ten they fought in the first round. This round wasn't divided into groups, which opened the possibility of facing anyone, even elite members from the Four Major Sects.

"Fifteen matches… that's quite a load," Retsu sighed, though a spark of excitement danced in her eyes. She looked forward to testing more of her skills in this round.

Yun Che nodded. "Keep in mind, we're more likely to encounter those high-ranked sect members this time since it's an open pool. Not everyone will want to face them."

Cang Yue smirked, recalling their first-round battles. "Didn't we face them anyway? You took on Xiao Zhen from the Xiao Clan, I faced Ling Feiyu from Heavenly Sword Villa, and Retsu had her match against the Wu Clan."

"True," Yun Che admitted with a chuckle. "It's not like we avoided anyone. In fact, they might be the ones avoiding us this time around."

Nemu tilted her head, asking, "So, Yuu-sama, is the unfairness affecting us or them?"

Her words made everyone sweatdrop. Nemu was right: the setup of this round could be fair or unfair depending on how one looked at it, especially given how they'd performed the previous two days. With Yun Che breaking barriers with a single kick, Retsu shattering an entire arena with her parasol, and Cang Yue launching her opponent sky-high, the crowd had seen feats that even seasoned warriors would think twice about challenging.

Mai and Mei's eyes sparkled as they glanced around the arena, soaking up the excitement. With their VIP seating, they had a clear view of all the action—something that made them the target of envious looks from many in the crowd. This kind of treatment was rare, even for prominent sect members, and it didn't go unnoticed.

Yun Che's gaze drifted across the other sect seating zones, landing on the Heavenly Sword Villa. There, Ling Jie waved at him enthusiastically, while Ling Yun's gaze was fixed on Retsu, Mio, and Nemu, his expression torn between fascination and admiration. When it comes to him, he held a cold contempt, which Yun Che ignored. Xuanyuan Yufeng, seated nearby, looked on stoically, her attention barely on her husband's attempts at conversation. She seemed disconnected, only turning to speak to her personal attendant.

The Heavenly Spear Thunderfire Fortress, once a formidable contender in the tournament, had suffered a major blow to its reputation. Following the defeat of its leader's two sons by Nemu two days prior, the fortress leader made the controversial decision to withdraw entirely from the competition. His two sons, who were supposed to enter the second round, forfeited their matches. Their vacant spots were promptly filled by rankers from positions 1001 and 1002, sparking murmurs and speculation throughout the event.

The backlash was swift and brutal. Once a proud and respected powerhouse, the Thunderfire Fortress became the subject of widespread ridicule. Whispers of weakness and incompetence spread among rival factions, with some openly mocking their retreat. The leader himself, once held in high regard, became a pariah among his peers, his reputation tarnished. 

While the fortress licked its wounds, Yun Che remained vigilant. He fully expected retaliation from Mu Tianbei—if not here, then later during the Heavenly Basin Secret Realm. The fortress leader, shamed and vengeful, was unlikely to let the insult go unanswered. If this follows the original story, Yun Che knew he wouldn't act openly in the tournament, not with the fortress already under public scrutiny, but the secret realm was another matter entirely. There, amidst the dangers and isolation, vengeance could be sought without the prying eyes of the world. He would team up with the Fen Brothers to deal with him. He smirked as he planned to handle him thoroughly later.

Speaking of the Fen Brothers...….

In the Burning Heaven Clan area, the Fen brothers glared daggers at him. Yun Che chuckled, recalling how he'd thwarted their attempts to humiliate him in the first round. Their resentment was clear, and he could almost sense their simmering anger, which he found mildly amusing.

His gaze then shifted to the Frozen Cloud Asgard section, where Xia Qingyue observed him intently, her expression unreadable. Little Fairy sent him a look of encouragement, and he responded with a small nod. Nearby, Chu Yueli held Nezuko close before gently passing her to Gong Yuxian's lap. Yun Che's brow raised in surprise—when had Nezuko bonded so closely with the Asgard Mistress herself? This unexpected alliance intrigued him. It was clear that, even among the esteemed sects, connections and silent alliances were forming in ways he hadn't fully anticipated.

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Blue Wind Imperial Family's Yun Che —— versus —— Thunderbolt Lightning Pavilion's Lei Zhentian!"

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"Wooo, it's started already?" Yun Che got up, stretching his arms above his head.

"Big brother! Do your best!" Mei called out with a bright smile.

"Brother-in-law! All the best. Sort of…" Yuanba said with a chuckle, unsure if he was wishing Yun Che luck or his opponents sympathy.

"Just don't go overboard like last time," Retsu gently reminded him as she poured tea for Nemu and Mio, who were preoccupied with rice crackers.

"Good luck, Che'er," Cang Yue added shyly, still adjusting to using endearments for him in public.

Seeing her bashful expression, Yun Che couldn't resist a little teasing. "Shouldn't you give me a good luck charm?"

Cang Yue blinked, taken aback. "Ah? What kind of charm do you want?"

"A kiss?" Yun Che turned his face slightly, grinning.

Cang Yue's eyes widened. "Ah? Right here?" Glancing around, her cheeks flushed a delicate pink. She quickly leaned forward, placed a light kiss on his cheek, then lowered her head, her heart pounding.

"Lucky bastard!" Kon shouted, breaking the silence.

"Oooh, Yue'er's gotten bolder," Mio teased, with Nemu chiming in, her fingers forming a playful gesture.

"Ufufuu… looks like she's trying to steal him from us, Mio-chan," Retsu added with a smirk.

"I… I have no such intentions!" Cang Yue stammered, flustered by their laughter.

"That's what they all say." Yun Che chuckled, and Cang Yue pouted, directing her embarrassment toward Kon with a series of flustered punches, which he accepted with a wide grin.

"There's no way we lose," Retsu declared, before she and Mio each gave Yun Che a quick kiss for luck, with Nemu following suit. Mai blushed, covering Mei's eyes, while Yuanba glanced away, secretly hoping Mai might one day offer him a charm of her own.

Yun Che grinned, raising his hands to halt the affectionate ambush. "Alright, alright—save some of this enthusiasm for when we're home!" He chuckled, catching sight of Ling Yun's narrowed plus vengeful eyes as Retsu, Mio, and Nemu planted a few final kisses on his cheek, utterly unbothered by the public display.

Suddenly, a loud cheer erupted from below. "Brothers, today we support our master Yun!" Du Ming led a rowdy group of Yun Che's followers, their voices booming as they cheered him on.

"Yes, handsome!" his brothers chanted in unison, their enthusiasm drawing bemused stares from nearby spectators.

Yun Che sweatdropped, rubbing the back of his neck as he watched the scene. "These guys… Can't they go embarrass themselves somewhere else?" he muttered, half-exasperated, half-amused.

The battles at the thirty Sword Discourse Arenas proceeded at the same time. Yun Che's first opponent was already standing in front of him. With an incomparably stout body, he was only twenty years old but looked like a buff forty-year-old man. The weapons in his hands were two large round hammers.

"Hmm, quite impressive. Handling those hammers."

The Yun Che who had exploded into the second round of group stages with an undefeated record naturally drew more attention. The same attention drew on Retsu and Cang Yue. Not only they have an undefeated streak. They also immensely powerful. Looking at his next opponent, everybody's heart had exactly the same idea: what kind of show he'll put up this time.

Lei Zhentian eyed Yun Che with a disdainful sneer, barely masking his irritation at facing him first. In his grip, the colossal Twin Thunderbolt Hammers glinted ominously, each one potent enough to crush a boulder to dust, their weight alone more than most cultivators could handle. As the Young Pavilion Master of Thunderbolt Lightning Pavilion, standing at the sixth level of the Spirit Profound Realm, Lei Zhentian wasn't used to being underestimated—especially not by someone like Yun Che, a mere True Profound Realm cultivator.

"Yun Che…" he growled, contempt dripping from his words as he pointed one massive hammer at him, his tone dark. Yun Che's reputation from yesterday had hardly made a dent in his confidence.

Yun Che only grinned, unfazed, raising his fingers in his signature two-finger salute. "Wassup?" he replied coolly.

"Just because you defeated one of the Xiao Sect's top elites doesn't mean you're anything special. I didn't expect my first opponent today to be a cocky brat. Looks like this 'dark horse' is about to become a dead horse. Draw your weapon!"

"Dude, I don't need a weapon. But good luck, mate." Yun Che grinned, hands casually stuffed in his coat pockets as if he had all the time in the world.

The comment, spoken with such ease, was like pouring oil on Lei Zhentian's already simmering anger. He charged forward, face twisted in fury. He was used to being feared, not mocked. Facing off against someone he considered weak—only a True Profound Realm cultivator—yet one who had somehow toppled a peak Spirit Profound opponent, made him bristle with rage. Swinging his twin hammers, he launched a furious assault, each blow heavy enough to create shockwaves in the air, crashing down with deadly intent.

The hammers, each weighing four hundred kilos, spun in his hands like feathers, filling the arena with a deafening roar as they tore through the air. But Yun Che barely blinked. Instead of bracing for impact, he simply sidestepped with fluidity, evading each attack with casual grace, anticipating the direction of every swing.

Lei Zhentian's furious strikes came in rapid succession—six in total—yet not a single one landed. Yun Che slipped around each blow as if dancing, never breaking his relaxed composure. Dodging rather than blocking wasn't just practical; it was effortless. To Yun Che, Lei Zhentian's powerhouse attacks might as well have been slow-motion swings.

In the stands, whispers of amazement rippled through the crowd.

"Stop dodging, damn it!" Lei Zhentian growled, his frustration mounting with every missed strike.

Yun Che shrugged, sidestepping another furious swing. "No one says I have to take them on," he replied coolly, his movements quick and effortless, drawing gasps from the crowd as they marveled at his incredible reaction speed.

"All right, that's enough fun." Yun Che finally decided, raising his arms and crossing them in front of him. With barely a flinch, he caught both hammers mid-swing, halting Lei Zhentian's immense force cold. Lei Zhentian's eyes widened in shock. The Twin Thunderbolt Hammers, weighing a combined eight hundred kilos and fueled by his powerful spirit energy, had been stopped bare-handed.

Before Lei Zhentian could react, Yun Che gave the right hammer a dismissive backhand slap, knocking it aside. He then clenched his fist, delivering a swift punch to Lei Zhentian's face, sending him reeling back into the arena's barrier, his grip loosening on one hammer as it clattered to the ground. It wasn't a knockout blow, but the impact left the crowd breathless.

Without missing a beat, Yun Che picked up the fallen hammer, giving it a casual swing or two. "Feels like a small branch," he mused, comparing its weight to the legendary weapon Yoru in his mind.

"Y-You!" Lei Zhentian, clutching his bruised face, staggered to his feet. "Give me my hammer back!"

"Sure," Yun Che replied with a grin, tossing the hammer back. As Lei Zhentian regained his footing and launched another assault, some onlookers gasped, murmuring in disapproval at Yun Che's move.

But Yun Che just smirked. He knew exactly what he was doing, and this fight wasn't over yet.

In mere moments, Lei Zhentian unleashed a relentless flurry of hammer strikes, each blow striking with vicious force. Yet, despite the speed and power behind every swing, not a single strike landed on Yun Che; he evaded each with fluid precision, his clothes remaining untouched. Lei Zhentian's frustration grew with each miss, his disbelief plain on his face. Finally, he bellowed, unleashing the full might of his sect's secret technique.

"You dare underestimate me?! Rumbling Thunderbolt!" he roared, smashing his hammers together. Instantly, a surge of profound lightning energy erupted from the collision, creating a massive, crackling bolt of lightning that shot directly toward Yun Che. The bolt hit the ground with a deafening crack, leaving a smoking black crater where it struck.

The crowd gasped, some whispering doubts as they watched the display of raw power. Was Yun Che truly strong enough to handle this level of force? Yet, he had anticipated the strike and was already three body lengths away, watching with a smirk as the lightning fizzled out on the scorched arena floor.

"Whoa… now that's one big lightning bolt," Yun Che chuckled, his hands still casually resting in his pockets. As he spoke, flames ignited along his right leg, swirling into a fierce inferno as he activated his Diable Jambe. The crowd erupted in excitement, recognizing the same blazing technique he'd used to defeat Xiao Zhen.

Yun Che grinned confidently, locking eyes with Lei Zhentian. "Now… it's my turn, right?"

Lei Zhentian stood frozen, his grip tightening on the Twin Thunderbolt Hammers, but his body refused to move. The overwhelming presence of Yun Che's blazing leg technique loomed before him, like a mountain that stretched beyond the horizon. In that moment, a seed of doubt sprouted in his mind: "There's no way I can win." The thought took root, and sweat poured down his back as he struggled to quell his growing fear.

But even then, he couldn't bring himself to advance.

Yun Che's eyes flashed with intent, and in the blink of an eye, he surged forward, his leg engulfed in a roaring flame. "Diable Jamble..." The words were barely out of his mouth before the fiery power of his kick was upon Lei Zhentian.

The moment their forces collided, Lei Zhentian's confidence shattered. The force of Yun Che's flaming leg far surpassed anything he had anticipated. The numbing shockwave from the clash ran up through his arms, rattling his grip on the hammers. His heart skipped a beat.

Before he could recover, Yun Che was already on him, his movements swift and precise. "Joue Shoot!" The shout rang out as he executed the technique in its flaming version, the force of his kick knocking Lei Zhentian's hammers aside with ease. The overwhelming heat and energy from the strike sent Lei Zhentian flying, his body crashing into the barrier with a resounding impact.

This time, Yun Che held back just enough to ensure the barrier didn't shatter under the force, avoiding disqualification while still sending a clear message: he was in complete control of the fight. As Lei Zhentian lay stunned, his twin hammers barely within reach, the crowd erupted into applause, their astonishment at the sheer power and precision of Yun Che's attack reverberating throughout the arena.

Lei Zhentian was sent flying through the air, his body battered by the sheer force of Yun Che's flaming kick. It was as if a flaming hurricane had swept him off his feet, and the only thing that slowed his momentum was the brutal impact of his own Twin Thunderbolt Hammers smashing into his face. Had Yun Che not directed the hammers toward him, the full force of the flames would have consumed him entirely.

As he struggled to regain his composure, Yun Che stood confidently across from him, his flaming leg lightly tapping the ground with a casual air. His arms were crossed, a smirk of complete dominance on his face. "Do you still want to fight?" he asked, his voice cool, calm, and teasing, as if he were giving Lei Zhentian one final chance to reconsider.

Lei Zhentian's heart pounded in his chest. He had believed he could still put up a fight, maybe land a few more strikes, but the moment Yun Che unleashed his flaming legs, it was clear that he was outmatched. He couldn't help but wonder if even his best techniques would have been futile against such overwhelming power.

The reality began to settle in—facing Yun Che wasn't just a challenge; it was a disaster waiting to happen. A fool's dream to think he could have won.

He slowly straightened himself, each movement heavy with the weight of his defeat. His once-proud spirit had been broken, and he couldn't bring himself to continue the fight. With a deep sigh, Lei Zhentian bowed his head, a rare humility in his eyes. "As expected from the man who defeated Xiao Zhen of the Xiao Sect," he said softly, his voice tinged with respect. "I admit defeat… I'm well convinced of my loss."

The announcer's voice rang out over the arena, loud and clear: "Lei Zhentian admits defeat, Blue Wind Imperial Family's Yun Che wins!!"

The crowd's applause continued to rumble through the arena, their admiration for Yun Che's strength and confidence growing with every passing second. His victory was not just a win—it was a statement. His effortless control of the battle, his precision in executing his techniques, and his calm demeanor even after such a fierce clash left no doubt in anyone's mind: Yun Che was no ordinary participant. He was a force to be reckoned with.

Yun Che flashed a quick grin before turning away, his steps light as he made his way off the stage. The original Yun Che would have revealed his Heavy Sword at this point, a symbol of his power and prowess. But in this version, Yun Che didn't need to bring out such an item since he doesn't have one. His Diable Jamble alone had already showcased his overwhelming strength, and that was more than enough to leave a lasting impression.

"See that, brothers?! This is why our master Yun is the best!" Du Ming shouted, his voice filled with pride.

"Yes, master Yun is the most handsome!" His brothers echoed, their cheers growing louder and more enthusiastic by the second.

Yun Che groaned, his face flushing with embarrassment as he threw his hands up in mock frustration. "Shut up and go away already! You're all embarrassing me!" He gestured for them to leave, but his words only spurred them on. The crowd around them exchanged odd looks, bewildered by the loud and over-the-top display.

With a sigh, Yun Che shook his head, trying to ignore the constant cheering. "I swear, these guys never know when to quit," he muttered to himself as he continued on, his path now filled with the echoes of his so-called "supporters" trailing behind him.