Chapter 36: The Aftermath

The competition had been grueling and challenging, testing the limits of all the cultivators who had participated. But in the end, Ethan and Lin Na had emerged victorious, earning the respect and admiration of their fellow cultivators.

As they returned to their home in the immortal realm, they were greeted by cheers and applause from the other cultivators, who congratulated them on their victory.

Ethan and Lin Na smiled and waved, feeling grateful for the support of their fellow cultivators. But even as they celebrated their victory, they knew that there was still much work to be done.

Over the next few weeks, they focused on rest and recovery, allowing their bodies to heal from the strains of the competition. They also spent time reflecting on the lessons they had learned, and the areas where they needed to improve.

Despite their victory, they knew that there were still challenges ahead, and that they needed to continue pushing themselves to become even stronger and more skilled.

One day, as they were meditating in their home, they received a message from Master Wu, inviting them to a meeting with the Immortal Council.

Curious, they made their way to the council's headquarters, where they were met by Master Wu and several other council members.

"Congratulations on your victory in the competition," Master Wu said with a smile. "You both performed admirably and proved yourselves to be among the strongest cultivators in the realm."

Ethan and Lin Na bowed their heads in gratitude, feeling honored by the council's praise.

"However," Master Wu continued, his tone becoming serious. "We have received reports of a new threat to the immortal realm."

Ethan and Lin Na looked at each other, feeling a sense of concern. They knew that the realm was always under threat from various forces, and that they needed to be prepared to defend it at all times.

"We believe that this threat is different from anything we have faced before," Master Wu said. "And we need strong and skilled cultivators like yourselves to help us combat it."

Ethan and Lin Na nodded their heads, feeling a sense of duty and responsibility to protect the realm.

"We will provide you with all the resources and support you need," Master Wu said. "But we must act quickly, before the threat grows too strong."

Ethan and Lin Na thanked the council members, feeling a renewed sense of purpose and determination. They knew that the new threat would be a challenge, but they were ready to face it head-on, no matter what it took.

Together, they set out to prepare for the new challenge, knowing that they would need to be at the top of their game to protect the immortal realm from harm