CHAPTER 18:Receiving reward!!

The courtyard of the Zi Xuan Sect was filled with an electric atmosphere. After days of intense competition, the Sect Leader had finally announced the results. Disciples and elders gathered around, awaiting his announcement of the top contenders.

The Sect Leader, dignified and wise, raised his hand, silencing the whispers and eager chatter. His voice carried strength and pride as he addressed the crowd.

"Today, we celebrate not only the strength of our sect but the remarkable talents of our disciples. After rigorous trials, I am proud to announce the champion of this test: Zhang Xin."

The crowd erupted in applause as Zhang Xin, a tall, composed young man with a steady gaze, stepped forward. The Sect Leader nodded approvingly and gestured toward an elder, who brought forth a strikingly beautiful sword with a glimmering hilt and intricate carvings.

"Zhang Xin," the Sect Leader announced, "you have shown remarkable skill, mastering the Light Skills and Ancient Stones Technique. Your Sharp Eyes Technique allows you to see through the weaknesses of your enemies. For your victory, I present you with the Blade of light. This weapon is not only an emblem of your achievement but also an enhancer of your skills, capable of channeling your inner energy and amplifying your sharp eyes."

Zhang Xin accepted the Blade of Heavenly Radiance with a deep bow, his expression respectful. He held the sword close, feeling its power resonate with his own, a bond forming between them.

The Sect Leader continued, now turning to the other disciples. "But Zhang Xin is not the only one who has proven worthy. I am proud to announce the top seven disciples of our sect, who will join Zhang Xin as teammates. Together, they shall represent the Zi Xuan Sect in the Royal Fighting Competition at the Jing Fu Empire Arena."

He turned to the crowd, calling forth each disciple in turn.

1. Zhang Xin – Blade of light

Zhang Xin's reward was more than a weapon; it was a true extension of his soul. The blade would enhance his light skills and support his keen perception, empowering him to detect even the slightest vulnerabilities in his enemies.

2. Lian Hua – Whispering Lotus Sword

"Lian Hua," the Sect Leader announced, "you possess a gentle spirit and a unique mastery of the Petal Sword technique, blending grace and deadliness." He presented her with the Whispering Lotus Sword, a light, elegant blade that channeled her energy through the movements of her petals, creating a mesmerizing dance of floral energy around her in battle. Lian Hua accepted it with a serene smile, her gaze radiating calm confidence.

3. Xiaobo – Emberfury Gauntlets

"Third is Xiaobo, whose Fire Techniques and ferocity in battle have earned him a reputation as a fierce warrior." The Sect Leader handed him the Emberfury Gauntlets, crafted to heighten his fire abilities, allowing him to release fiery blasts with every punch. Xiaobo grinned, flexing his hands in the gauntlets, feeling the raw power of flames at his fingertips.

4. Yuxin – Glacial Steps Boots

"Yuxin, agile and strategic, with mastery in Ice Techniques, is our fourth disciple," the Sect Leader continued. He presented her with the Glacial Steps Boots, enchanted to quicken her steps and make her movements silent, even able to leave behind trails of frost in her wake. Yuxin accepted them, her eyes sparkling with anticipation, as she imagined the added grace they would bring to her abilities.

5. Mei Lan – Ocean's Grace Staff

"Fifth is Mei Lan, known for her compassion and Healing Water Techniques, a vital support in any battle." She was given the Ocean's Grace Staff, a staff that amplified her water-based healing powers and provided a reservoir of spiritual energy to rejuvenate her allies. Mei Lan bowed deeply, clutching her staff with both hands, her face lit up with quiet joy.

6. Wei Luo – Earthforge Shield

"Sixth is Wei Luo, whose Earth Techniques and steadfast nature make him a reliable protector," the Sect Leader declared. He presented him with the Earthforge Shield, a massive, indestructible shield imbued with earth energy, capable of absorbing and redirecting powerful attacks. Wei Luo received it with a determined nod, feeling its immense weight and stability.

7. Chen Bo – Windslayer Fan

"Finally, Chen Bo, a brilliant swordsman with a knack for Wind Techniques and strategy," the Sect Leader said. He presented him with the Windslayer Fan, crafted with rare feathers, capable of channeling powerful gusts to manipulate the battlefield. Chen Bo bowed deeply, his mind already racing with the tactical possibilities of his new weapon.

As the top seven disciples accepted their rewards, the Sect Leader's expression grew serious yet proud.

"You seven have not only achieved victory but have also earned the honor of representing the Zi Xuan Sect in the Royal Fighting Competition. From this moment on, you are no longer just disciples; you are teammates, bound by a shared destiny and a duty to uphold our sect's honor. Train hard, rely on each other, and return victorious."

With a final congratulatory gesture, the Sect Leader motioned for the crowd to cheer once more, and applause filled the courtyard as the top seven disciples stood side by side, their faces radiating pride and determination.

As the excitement settled, Xiaobo, unable to contain his usual enthusiasm, turned to his new teammates. "Hey, how about we go outside and have some fun today? We've earned it!"

The team agreed, smiles breaking across their faces. After a long series of trials, a day to relax and enjoy themselves felt well-deserved.

The seven disciples made their way outside the sect grounds, laughing and talking as they strolled through the lively streets. The day was bright, and the air carried the scent of street food, drawing them to various vendors as they enjoyed a rare moment of freedom.

Unbeknownst to them, a figure lurked in the shadows, watching their every move. Clad in dark robes, the stranger's eyes glinted with a dangerous intent. Suddenly, Zhang Xin's senses tingled. His sharp eyes caught the stranger's subtle movements, hidden in the crowd, tracking their steps with a predatory gaze.

With a swift motion, Zhang Xin gestured to his teammates, signaling them to stay alert. He made his way toward the shadowed figure, who seemed to realize he'd been spotted and sprang into action.

The figure, cloaked in dark energy, lunged forward, unleashing a powerful wave of energy aimed at Zhang Xin. Zhang Xin reacted quickly, unsheathing the Blade of light and countering with a flash of light that dissipated the dark energy. His teammates fell into formation around him, ready for battle.

The mysterious figure sneered, unfazed by the display of strength. He launched another attack, aiming a dark blast toward the group, but Wei Luo stepped in, raising his Earthforge Shield to absorb the blow.

Xiaobo wasted no time. Activating his Emberfury Gauntlets, he charged forward, fists blazing with flames. He swung a fiery punch at their attacker, who dodged with shocking speed. Yuxin, sensing the opportunity, darted around, her Glacial Steps Boots leaving icy trails as she moved. She launched an ice spear, which caught the attacker's arm, slowing him down.

The figure snarled, clearly realizing he was up against a formidable team. He turned to make an escape, but Lian Hua, with her Whispering Lotus Sword in hand, stepped into his path, her calm presence commanding. She unleashed a flurry of petal-like energy, forcing the figure back.

"You're not going anywhere," Chen Bo said, his Windslayer Fan open and ready. With a flick of his wrist, he generated a gust of wind that pushed the attacker off balance.

Realizing he was cornered, the stranger's energy surged, revealing his full power. Dark shadows spiraled around him as he launched a desperate attack. Mei Lan stepped forward, raising her Ocean's Grace Staff, and conjured a protective water shield that blocked the dark energy.

With precision and unity, Zhang Xin and his team launched their final attack, each harnessing their powers in perfect harmony. Zhang Xin's blade sliced through the air, Lian Hua's petals surrounded the enemy, and Xiaobo's flames surged forward, encasing the figure in light, fire, and ice.

When the smoke cleared, the figure was defeated, lying unconscious at their feet. Zhang Xin studied the fallen attacker, his eyes narrowing. This was no ordinary rival; the dark energy the stranger wielded was unusual and dangerous.

"This was no coincidence," Zhang Xin murmured to his team. "We'll need to stay vigilant. Whoever sent him knows about us... and our mission."

The team exchanged determined glances, their bond solidified by the battle they had just fought. They were no longer just a group of top disciples—they were a true team, ready to face any threat that awaited them.