Chapter 194: The Awakening Empress

Cang Yue sighed for the tenth time that day, weighed down by a sense of frustration. She had been eagerly anticipating her day off from the tournament, planning to refine her Rokushiki Arts and prepare for the second round tomorrow. It was supposed to be a productive day, especially with Yoruko borrowed once again to accompany her sworn elder sister, Xue Ling, on a playful date with the little one. Cang Yue had agreed to this after losing a game of rock, paper, and scissors, which also granted Mio a day out with Yun Che.

While Retsu and Nemu spent their time improving their Haki and Kido, Cang Yue had been left alone to focus on her own training. Despite being offered the chance to spectate the third day of the tournament, she had no interest in sitting idle. Her mind was set on mastering another variation of the Rokushiki Arts, determined to bolster her skills for the challenges ahead.

But those plans were interrupted when a company of men arrived, leading a group of important individuals. Cang Yue instantly recognized them as distant members of the Cang Family, who ruled a remote kingdom which is part of the Blue Wind Empire. Their unexpected appearance threw a wrench into her carefully laid plans, forcing her to set aside her training.

Her father had requested her presence to accompany him in hosting their guests. Family, after all, came first, and with Yun Che absent, there was no graceful way for her to excuse herself from the obligation. Yet her heart was still set on the training she had hoped for. The distraction only intensified her frustration as the distant relatives made small talk, oblivious to how they had disrupted her day.

Despite the importance of her family's visitors, Cang Yue couldn't help but feel that this diversion had come at the worst possible time. As the afternoon wore on, she tried to hide her impatience, knowing that tomorrow's tournament would demand her full focus and skill. All she could do now was wait, hoping that this familial interruption would end soon, so she could at least squeeze in some much-needed practice.

A company of men escorting a luxurious carriage entered the palace courtyard, led by a middle-aged man dressed in an opulent gold robe, accompanied by an entourage of at least a dozen Earth Profound Realm cultivators. The man exuded the aura of a king, his presence commanding as he stepped out of the carriage, escorted by a younger man dressed in similar fashion. The guards remained outside, while the two men made their way into the throne room.

"Brother Wanhe… it's good to see you again!" the older man exclaimed warmly, his voice echoing with familiarity as he approached the Emperor. Cang Yue knew him well as his name was Cang Lingwu, a distant relative of the royal Cang Family. He appeared to be in his middle years, exuding an air of authority and wealth. His robes were even more lavish than those of the Emperor himself, who preferred to present himself with humility rather than grandeur.

Emperor Cang Wanhe nodded in acknowledgment. "Brother Lingwu."

Following behind Cang Lingwu was a younger man dressed in the same luxurious fashion, his posture confident. "You've met my son, Xingwu. Wu'er, greet your uncle."

The younger man, Cang Xingwu, bowed briefly before his gaze shifted to Cang Yue, his eyes glinting with a familiar disdain. "Xingwu greets the Emperor."

Cang Yue remained poised, her expression unchanged as she recognized her cousin. Cang Xingwu was one of those cousins who had always belittled her for being a woman in the Cang Family, and had been a close ally of her now-disgraced brothers. Though his outward manner seemed respectful, the hatred in his eyes was unmistakable as he glanced at her. Once, she had gone to great lengths to earn his approval and the favor of her other male relatives, but she no longer cared. She had long since tired of their contempt.

Cang Yue kept this family tension hidden from Yun Che and the others, unsure if she was ready to share it. Cang Xingwu's disdain toward her had festered for years. Born into a family renowned for producing male heirs, Cang Yue had been viewed as an anomaly. Her birth had stirred old superstitions, with some even accusing her late mother of infidelity for having a daughter instead of the expected male child. Many in the Cang Family considered her a curse, though her father, Cang Wanhe, had always insisted that Cang Yue was the one to break the family's supposed "curse" of only male heirs.

"You've met my only daughter, Cang Yue," Emperor Cang Wanhe introduced, his voice carrying warmth and pride.

The middle-aged man in gold robes, Cang Lingwu, gave a slow nod, studying Cang Yue. It had been years since he'd last seen her, and now she stood before him as a young woman of striking beauty. "This must be the beautiful Princess Cang Yue," he said, though there was a subtle condescension in his tone.

"Cang Yue greets her distant uncle, Cang Lingwu," Cang Yue bowed politely, though inwardly she sighed.

"It's King Lingwu, dear niece," he corrected her with a hint of arrogance. His kingdom, though small and remote compared to the Blue Wind Empire, clearly fueled his pride. Cang Yue, the grand princess of the entire Blue Wind Empire, suddenly felt as though she were being placed below him.

Suppressing her irritation, she offered a calm, "Ah, apologies."

"No matter," Cang Lingwu waved off the slip dismissively, turning his attention back to Cang Wanhe. "Today is a joyous celebration."

The attendants then led the group to the dining hall, where the royal family had often gathered for special occasions. Cang Yue remembered this hall vividly; it had once been filled with the laughter of her brothers and their families. Back then, she would sit quietly, often overlooked. Now, with her brothers imprisoned for their betrayal, their wives and children had been sent back to their clans. They avoided any consequences of their husbands' actions, but Cang Yue couldn't help but pity the children, stripped of their royal privileges and thrust into remote obscurity.

Seated in the grand dining hall, it was now just her and her father as the last remaining members of the Blue Wind royal family.

Cang Wanhe broke the silence. "What brings you here, cousin?" His question was pointed. It was rare for such a distant relative to visit the imperial palace without a purpose.

Cang Lingwu paused, his eyes glinting with calculated interest. "There are important matters to discuss, Brother Wanhe. Matters of family, legacy, and… alliances." He glanced meaningfully toward Cang Yue, a subtle indication of where this conversation might be headed.

Cang Yue, sensing where this might lead, steeled herself for the conversation to come.

Cang Lingwu began, his voice smooth and seemingly concerned. "The rebellion is indeed tragic. We've come to visit the main family, having heard that your injuries worsened during the uprising."

Cang Wanhe took a measured sip of his drink, his gaze steady. "Indeed, it has been challenging. However, this one has made a full recovery." His tone invited his cousin to continue, aware of where the conversation was likely heading.

"Then, every cloud has a silver lining," Cang Lingwu said with a thin smile. "To think you've recovered and reassumed your seat of power. It brings me great relief, brother." He paused for effect, his next words dripping with calculated intent. "But I've also heard troubling news… You've imprisoned all of your sons?"

Cang Wanhe's expression remained impassive, though his eyes narrowed slightly. "They are traitors to the main family. I had my reasons for doing so."

Lingwu's eyes gleamed, his true motives becoming clear. "Well then, should the time come… who have you chosen as your successor?"

There it was—the heart of the matter. The real reason for this unexpected visit. Cang Wanhe recognized the hunger in his cousin's voice, but his face betrayed nothing. "This one has already made his decision. My daughter, Cang Yue, will be crowned as princess and true heir to the throne."

The room seemed to tighten as Cang Lingwu's pleasant façade shattered. He stood abruptly, his face flushing with disbelief and anger. "Brother! This cannot be!" His voice rose, indignant. "You know as well as I that generations of emperors have ruled this Empire! We are blessed with male heirs—only male heirs. There has never been an Empress! How do you expect the family, the nobility, and even the people to accept a woman as the ruler of this empire?"

Cang Yue sighed internally, her patience thinning. The thirst for power radiated off these men like heat from a flame, their disregard for her apparent. Her father remained calm, a rock in the storm of Lingwu's outburst.

"My daughter," Cang Wanhe said with deliberate calm, "shall be the first Empress to rule the Empire." His gaze was sharp, piercing through the veneer of familial respect. "This Empire was founded by the Moon Empress. It is only fitting that it should be returned to the rule of a worthy Empress."

Cang Lingwu's sneer was unmistakable now. "Then surely… surely she will need guidance," he said, his tone oozing arrogance. "While she learns the proper way to rule, why not let me recommend my son as the rightful heir to the throne? We are cousins, after all." His casual dismissal of Cang Yue's legitimacy, his presumption of superiority, was palpable. The way he offered his son as if it were a simple matter of replacing a faulty heir infuriated Cang Yue.

But before her temper could rise, Cang Wanhe delivered his final blow. His voice was steely, unwavering. "There is no need. My decision is final. Cang Yue will be the Empress and the sole heir to the throne of the Blue Wind Empire."

The tension was a living thing in the room, suffocating and sharp. Cang Lingwu's expression darkened, his ambition laid bare. The offer of his son was not a suggestion but a threat—a challenge to the royal authority Cang Yue now represented.

Cang Lingwu's voice dripped with stubbornness. "Brother, we must follow the traditions of the family. The rule of the Empire has always been dictated by men. Never before has an Empress ruled." He blatantly disregarded Cang Yue, his eyes gleaming with ambition. Both father and daughter could see through this tactic—it was nothing more than an attempt to slide his son into the line of succession. Now that the crown princes were imprisoned, he hoped to use tradition as a weapon to push Cang Yue out of the ruling line.

Cang Yue sighed softly before stepping forward, addressing the situation with no pretense of politeness. "What makes you think my father will agree, just because you bring up tradition, Uncle? Let me remind you, dear uncle, that the Empire can only be ruled by the main line of the Cang Family, regardless of gender. With my brothers imprisoned, that leaves me as the sole heir to the throne."

In her mind, Cang Yue thought of Huan Xuyi, the first Empress, and her ancestor, Cang Xue. Their legacy lived in her, and while she never craved the throne, she respected the duty laid before her. It was not tradition but her bond with the Moon Empress and the respect for her ancestor that compelled her to assume the mantle of Empress one day.

"This…" Cang Lingwu's face twisted in indignation. "It looks like the niece has forgotten how to respect her elders. Brother, how could you raise such insolence! This is not the behavior expected of a future ruler!" His voice grew louder as he pointed accusingly at her father.

Cang Yue maintained her composure, though a cold fire burned within her. Before she could respond, Cang Wanhe's firm voice broke through the tension. "Lingwu," he warned, his tone sharp, "my daughter is the legitimate heir, born of me and my late third wife. Insulting her means insulting me. I will not tolerate insults directed at her. If you persist, you will see yourself escorted out. I am the Emperor, and who are you to question my daughter's capabilities?"

Cang Lingwu's son, Xingwu, stood then, puffing up his chest. "Uncle, please reconsider. I am willing to learn to be the Emperor! Why forsake the ancient traditions just for your daughter?" His words, laced with arrogance, aimed to rile both father and daughter.

Cang Yue started to rise from her seat, her patience fraying. "Just because you're a distant member of the Cang Family doesn't mean you can disrespect the Emperor—"

But her father raised his hand, halting her. Cang Yue, though annoyed, took a deep breath and regained her calm.

Cang Wanhe's voice carried a gravity that silenced the room. "This may be the time to change the ways of our ancestors. Traditions are guidelines, not laws. They are not immutable."

Cang Lingwu's face turned red with fury, his disbelief palpable. "You… You can't seriously mean to break with tradition for your daughter?"

Cang Xingwu, emboldened by his father's dismay, slammed his fist on the table. "Uncle! I will not accept this!"

Cang Yue sighed, seeing how deeply these men clung to their outdated customs, so much so that they openly defied the Emperor. It was as if they were brainwashed by the idea that tradition was the only path forward.

Cang Wanhe's authority filled the room like a thunderclap. "Who are you to dictate our decisions?" His eyes glared at Xingwu, and his aura pressed down on them like a weight. "You are merely a prince of a remote kingdom against the might of an empire." The weight of his authority caused them to sit back down, though their defiance simmered beneath the surface.

Xingwu wasn't done yet. His eyes flickered with a dark gleam as he spoke. "Uncle… by the traditions of the Cang Family, remote families have the right to challenge any member of the main line. Isn't that so? Past family members settled such disputes through small challenges to decide who reigns supreme."

Cang Wanhe's expression remained steady, though his eyes narrowed slightly, uncertain of where this was leading. "Indeed…" he said cautiously.

Xingwu smirked, his lips curling upward in triumph. "Then, Princess Cang Yue, I demand a challenge—a duel! If you lose, you will step aside, and we shall assume the right as the ruling family!" He pointed directly at Cang Yue, his arrogance unchecked.

The room fell into a tense silence as Cang Yue met her cousin's gaze, the fire in her eyes matching the cold determination she felt within. They cannot challenge the ruling emperor but they can challenge the heir to relinquish the rights.

Cang Wanhe began to speak, his voice heavy with disapproval, "This… You're abusing your—"

But before he could finish, Cang Yue gently placed a hand on his arm, shaking her head. "Father..." she said softly, her tone filled with quiet resolve.

Cang Wanhe studied her face for a moment before nodding, his trust in his daughter unwavering. "Yue'er?"

"I'll accept the challenge," Cang Yue announced, her voice carrying across the room. Her eyes locked onto Cang Xingwu's with unflinching determination. "If this one wants a duel, I shall honor it. However, if I win, you will accept our conditions—without any repercussions. Is that clear?"

Cang Xingwu's smirk grew wider, his arrogance practically oozing from him. "I accept. Though, should I offer you a handicap?" His tone was dripping with condescension. "You're only at the Peak of True Profound Realm, after all. Wouldn't that be fair, considering I'm at the fifth level of Earth Profound Realm?"

Cang Yue remained composed, her confidence unshaken. "Use your full strength. You'll soon learn the difference between Heaven and Earth." She closed her eyes, her calm demeanor making the tension in the room all the more palpable.

Seeing this newfound confidence in her, Cang Xingwu decided to strike at a more personal wound. He stepped closer, his voice low and venomous. "Hmph, as expected from a female with commoner's blood. Perhaps it's you and your mother who cursed our family."

Cang Yue's eyes flickered with anger, her composure wavering for just a moment. "My mother is not a curse…" Her voice was strained with fury, but she held herself together. Insults to her were tolerable, but her late mother's honor was sacred.

Cang Xingwu smirked, sensing the crack in her armor, and pressed further. "Be that as it may, she was nothing more than a lowborn woman, taken in out of pity—"

SLAP!

The sound echoed through the room like a crack of thunder, causing Cang Xingwu to stumble, falling to the side. He clutched his face, bewildered by the force of her strike. Despite his cultivation, the pain radiating from his cheek left him stunned.

Cang Yue stood over him, her eyes ablaze with fury. "You dare insult my mother?! Who do you think you are?" Her voice was cold, dangerous, and for a moment, the urge to summon her sword and strike him down flickered within her. But she took a deep breath, forcing herself to calm down.

Cang Xingwu slowly rose to his feet, still rubbing his stinging cheek, utterly confused as to why her slap had been so powerful. He glared at her, but his arrogance remained. "You've already accepted the challenge. I won't hold back. A week from now, we will see who—"

"No," Cang Yue interrupted sharply. "Let's do it now. In the courtyard. Let the entire palace watch. Isn't that what you want? For everyone to see your so-called victory?"

Her words, though calm, carried the weight of her fury. She turned her back on him, signaling that the conversation was over.

Cang Xingwu's smirk returned. He believed he had succeeded in provoking her. He had come prepared for this, and now that the princess had accepted in anger, he thought the match was already his. "Understood," he said, following her out.

The tension in the room thickened, the air crackling with anticipation. The entire palace would witness this challenge.

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Retsu and Nemu settled atop the palace roof, their eyes focused on the scene unfolding below in the courtyard. They had returned early, intending to prepare lunch, but their plans quickly shifted as they noticed the gathering of unfamiliar faces surrounding Cang Yue.

From their vantage point, they could see the courtyard buzzing with tension. Cang Yue stood in the center, calm but resolute, while her father, Cang Wanhe, observed from his throne, overlooking the entire spectacle.

"Nee-sama? Does Yue-sama have guests today?" Nemu asked, her voice curious as she took in the unusually crowded courtyard.

"I don't know, Nemu," Retsu replied, her tone thoughtful. "Little Yue never mentioned any guests, let alone a duel." Her sharp gaze swept over the scene. With Yun Che and Mio away, as well as Xue Ling and Yoruko, the presence of new faces was more intriguing than ever.

"Should we help her out?" Nemu suggested, glancing at Retsu for direction.

Retsu continued watching, her brow furrowing slightly. "How did Little Yue get herself into this situation?" she thought, though her expression remained calm. "No," she finally said, her voice steady. "Let's observe from here. Little Yue wouldn't accept a duel without a good reason. I trust she has her reasons, and I believe she can resolve this without us stepping in. We'll watch over her, okay?"

Nemu nodded in agreement. "Hai…"

With that, Retsu conjured a protective kekkai barrier around them and another kekkai as a cushion, allowing them to sit comfortably and remain hidden from sight as they observed. Both sisters remained poised, their instincts sharp, yet their faith in Cang Yue unwavering. Despite the brewing storm in the courtyard, Retsu's calm demeanor sent a silent message to Nemu: Cang Yue was stronger than she appeared, and if anyone doubted her, they would soon learn the truth.

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The atmosphere in the courtyard was tense as Cang Yue stood confidently beside her cousin, Cang Xingwu. Overhead, Cang Wanhe sat calmly alongside Cang Lingwu, whose discomfort grew with each passing moment. The emperor's relaxed expression conveyed not worry for his daughter but rather an unsettling sense of pity—though not for Cang Yue, but for her opponent.

The spectators were divided. One side, fervently supporting Cang Xingwu, chanted his name and expressed their confidence in his strength. The other side, silent but observant, supported Cang Yue. Though they didn't cheer loudly, their faces held a quiet certainty, as if they already knew the outcome.

In the center of the courtyard, an official stepped forward to mediate the duel. Cang Xingwu, wearing his gold garments, smirked as he addressed Cang Yue.

"Princess, may I remind you that your long princess garments might get in the way?" His words were laced with mockery, his confidence bolstered by the preparation he'd made for this duel.

Cang Yue, however, was unfazed. "The garments won't get in my way. I am very well prepared, cousin. Now, are you going to spout nonsense all day, or are we going to fight?" Her voice carried a bored indifference, making it clear that his taunts had little effect on her.

Cang Xingwu, annoyed by her composure, snapped back, "You… don't think I will show mercy or give you a handicap, even if you're the heir to the throne!"

"Wasn't expecting any…" Cang Yue replied, sighing as if the whole situation was beneath her.

Cang Xingwu grinned. "Very well… I was already picturing how you'd beg for mercy when I'm done with you. This makes the wait is worth it." His supporters erupted in cheers, while Cang Yue's side remained quiet. Yet, their confidence in her radiated, unnerving Cang Xingwu slightly. Even more unsettling was her father's silence. Cang Wanhe hadn't uttered a word in support of his daughter, and it bothered Xingwu that the emperor seemed so... at ease.

The official raised his hand. "We are here to witness the traditional duel between two heirs of the Cang Family, Princess Cang Yue and Lord Cang Xingwu. As is customary, Princess Cang Yue, having accepted the challenge, will choose the weapons."

Xingwu smirked, arrogance dripping from his voice. "You can choose any weapon, princess. Consider it my handicap to you."

Cang Yue didn't hesitate. With a swift motion, she summoned her Moon World like a spatial ring, and from it, she pulled out two long, straight bamboo poles—simple training weapons used to practice the art of the Samurai. The crowd gasped in confusion, wondering why she would select such humble weapons for a serious duel. She tossed one bamboo pole toward Xingwu, who caught it with a look of incredulity.

"What is this? Bamboo poles? Are you serious?" Xingwu sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "You choose these weapons against me? What is this, princess?"

Cang Yue didn't bother to explain. She simply twirled the bamboo in her hand, her movements fluid, graceful, and precise. "It is your weapon. You said to choose any weapon, cousin. Now, let's see if you can handle it."

Cang Xingwu's face twisted with anger as Cang Yue calmly twirled her bamboo pole. His frustration boiled over at her composed demeanor. "Are you insulting me or joking with me, princess? Draw real blades and settle this like proper Cang Family members!"

Cang Yue remained unfazed, her expression as calm as ever. "I chose the weapons and gave you one. Besides, you don't have the right to make me draw my blade. Don't worry," she added, a hint of amusement in her voice, "these bamboo poles hurt less."

Cang Xingwu's temper flared as he gripped the bamboo pole tightly, raising it in challenge. "You want to talk about rights?" he barked, his voice echoing across the courtyard. "Fine, let's settle this! Come on!"

But Cang Yue didn't move. Her posture was serene, her bamboo pole held lightly in front of her. She stood like a statue, unmoving, as her cousin's anger mounted.

"Come on, princess! I don't have all day!" Cang Xingwu sneered, his frustration evident. "I'm sure you have servants who can soothe my tiredness after I'm done with you."

Cang Yue sighed, her patience wearing thin. With a flick of her wrist, she began to twirl the bamboo pole gracefully. "I told you," she said softly, "I'm not here to talk. If you've come with nothing but aggression, you show no dignity."

"You!" Cang Xingwu roared, taking the insult personally. Fueled by rage, he rushed toward her with all his strength, swinging the bamboo pole in a wild arc.

He didn't get far.

Before his bamboo even came close, Cang Yue struck. Her movements were impossibly fast—too fast for most to follow. She landed a swift blow to his face, followed by another to his body, and finally, a powerful strike to his chin. The impact sent him flying backward, crashing face-first into the ground.

The courtyard fell silent, everyone watching in disbelief. Cang Lingwu's eyes widened in shock, unable to comprehend what had just happened. Cang Xingwu had been overpowered so effortlessly—by a mere bamboo pole.

Cang Yue's movements were a display of pure elegance. She hadn't needed to exert much effort, and her long princess dress flowed gracefully with each motion, never hindering her. She moved only when necessary, with perfect control and precision.

Whispers began to spread through the crowd. Cang Xingwu had boasted about giving her a handicap, but it was clear now that she was the one offering him mercy. Those on Cang Yue's side knew this all too well—they had seen her defeat Cang Lin before, and they had no doubts now.

In the stunned silence, Cang Yue remained poised, her bamboo pole still twirling lightly in her hand. The duel, for her, had never been in question.

Cang Lingwu's face turned red with fury as he watched the duel spiral out of control. "How? She's only at the Peak of True Profound Realm!" he roared, frustration clear in his voice.

Cang Wanhe remained calm, glancing at his cousin with a knowing look. "We never underestimated her. You are the one who did."

"You..." Cang Lingwu gritted his teeth, realizing that his overconfidence had been his undoing. His son, who should have easily overpowered Cang Yue, was now on the defensive, his every move countered effortlessly.

Cang Xingwu, still reeling from the previous strike, turned toward Cang Yue, but her bamboo pole was already at his chin, signaling his defeat. "Do you wish to continue?" she asked, her voice calm but authoritative.

Anger flared in Cang Xingwu's eyes as he smacked her shoot away and stood up, refusing to back down. "What is that strength?!" he demanded, clearly confused by her overwhelming skill.

"I have no obligation to answer," Cang Yue replied, composed as ever. "Now, continue."

With renewed rage, Cang Xingwu launched a flurry of wild swings, but Cang Yue merely blocked them with minimal effort. She moved gracefully, each strike of his met with a perfectly timed block or dodge. The crowd began to murmur, realizing how foolish Cang Xingwu's attacks looked. Every move he made seemed slow and predictable to Cang Yue, who was barely exerting herself.

In one smooth motion, Cang Yue tapped his leg and smacked his chest, then struck his chin, sending him stumbling backward. Cang Xingwu's eyes widened in disbelief—none of his attacks had any effect on her, and his profound strength was completely neutralized.

"Wu'er! Fight properly!" Cang Lingwu shouted, desperation creeping into his voice.

"You... I'll teach you a lesson!" Cang Xingwu barked, swinging at her with reckless abandon. But Cang Yue simply blocked every strike, her movements almost casual. At one point, she delivered a quick strike to his head, just hard enough to make him wince in pain. To her, his clumsy attacks were almost laughable. She giggled softly, finding humor in his futile efforts.

"You dare laugh at me?" Cang Xingwu fumed, spinning his bamboo pole wildly in an attempt to regain control. But Cang Yue swiftly interrupted his spin by inserting her own bamboo pole into it, halting the motion entirely before tapping his head again. It was clear to everyone watching—if this were a match judged by points, Cang Yue had already won several times over.

"Damn you!!" Cang Xingwu yelled in frustration. In a desperate attempt, he leaped into the air, intending to use gravity to amplify his attack. He brought his bamboo pole down with all his might, but Cang Yue met it with the tip of her own bamboo pole, effortlessly blocking the strike. With a swift flick, she tapped his foot, causing him to lose balance and crash to the ground. His weapon flew out of his hands, leaving him disarmed and defeated.

"You've already lost," Cang Yue sighed, her voice carrying a tinge of disappointment. The duel, from the start, had been pointless and far too predictable. She had given him a chance, but his arrogance blinded him to reality.

As Cang Xingwu lay on the ground, the courtyard was silent. The guests, who had once cheered for him, were now silent, stunned by Cang Yue's dominance. Cang Lingwu, too, was speechless, his plan in ruins. Cang Yue stood victorious, barely breaking a sweat, and the true weight of her strength was now impossible to ignore.

"Princess Cang Yue wins!" the attendant announced, but Cang Xingwu, still on the ground, could only stare in disbelief. His Earth Profound Realm strength had been rendered utterly useless against her. Weaponless and defeated, he was left humiliated before the entire court.

"This cannot be... unacceptable... unacceptable..." Cang Lingwu muttered angrily, his pride shattered. His son had been thoroughly humiliated by the female heir he had so confidently dismissed.

Cang Yue, with grace and composure, bowed slightly. "This is tiring. You may show yourself out now. I have training to attend to," she said with a calm smile as she turned her back on him.

"Unacceptable!" Cang Xingwu shouted, summoning his sword in a fit of desperation. He no longer cared for the rules or the duel's outcome.

"Lord Xingwu, the match has ended. You have lost," the attendant tried to reason, but Cang Yue raised her hand to silence him. Her voice remained calm. "Cang Xingwu, the outcome is clear. I won, and you lost."

But Cang Xingwu was far from done. His pride wounded, he taunted her, trying to provoke another fight. "You want to be the heir to the throne, don't you?! Then fight the way of the Cang Family!"

Cang Yue didn't flinch, her confidence unwavering. "I never sought the throne for myself. I intend to rule to honor my ancestors, not because I desire power," she replied firmly. Her father, Emperor Cang Wanhe, watched without interference, trusting in his daughter's abilities.

"Then, draw your sword!" Cang Xingwu shouted, desperately trying to force a serious fight. But Cang Yue only smiled, her calm demeanor infuriating him further.

"I already did," she said simply, twirling the bamboo pole in her hand as if it were the only weapon she needed.

"Courting death!" Cang Xingwu roared, lunging at her with his sword. But to his shock, Cang Yue easily intercepted his strike. The blade clanged against the bamboo pole, which remained intact, as though protected by a profound energy he couldn't comprehend. She avoided the sharp edge and clashed on the side of the sword without needing to use Profound Energy or Haki.

"You cheat! You never told me you were this strong!" Cang Xingwu screamed, unable to believe that his full strength was nothing more than child's play to her.

"Cang Xingwu," Cang Yue sighed, almost pitying him. "You're actually terrible with swords. Your form is sloppy, and your strikes lack any real technique. Did you learn how to swing a sword without understanding how to use one?"

Her words cut deeper than any blade, and in frustration, Cang Xingwu unleashed his profound technique. "Take this! Triple Strike Attack!"

With perfect poise, Cang Yue readied herself. She dodged his attacks effortlessly, her movements so fluid it seemed as though she was dancing. After the third strike, she disarmed him with a single precise motion, smacking his sword hand and sending the blade flying across the courtyard. It was a disarming technique she had learned from Retsu during their training with blunt weapons. Retsu, watching from above, smiled in quiet satisfaction, proud of Cang Yue's growth.

"Let's call it a day, cousin. You've already lost face twice. Don't make it a third," Cang Yue said softly, bowing respectfully as she rested the bamboo pole on her shoulder.

Cang Xingwu, seething and defeated, could only grit his teeth as he stood weaponless, realizing he had been outclassed in every possible way.

Cang Xingwu stood tall, a fireball the size of a head forming in his hand, crackling with violent energy. Cang Yue's eyes widened, surprised that he would go this far.

"I didn't lose yet!" he shouted defiantly.

"We already called it an even," Cang Yue responded calmly, though her patience was wearing thin. It seemed she might have to use more than just her bamboo pole after all.

"There is no such thing!" he bellowed, his voice full of rage as he charged the fireball further.

"Lord Cang, the battle is already over. Any further and we will be forced to take action," the attendant warned, as the imperial protectors moved to stand by Cang Yue.

Cang Yue raised her hand. "Very well, if you insist," she said, coating her bamboo pole with haki, a thin black sheen running across it.

The attendant paused, understanding her intent. "Stand guard," she instructed. "This will be my fight. Do not worry, I'll be careful."

"Taste my fire art, Flames of Destruction!" Cang Xingwu roared, hurling the massive fireball towards Cang Yue. Fire trails and smaller fireballs erupted from it as it flew.

Cang Yue moved gracefully, dodging each fireball with ease, her haki allowing her to anticipate their paths. She even swatted a few of them aside with her bamboo pole, the flames fizzing out upon contact.

"You dodge it well. Try this!" Cang Xingwu's voice boomed once more. His hands moved rapidly, forming a fiery beast—a massive lion made entirely of flames.

Cang Yue's eyes narrowed at the sight of the blazing creature. "Heavenly Flame Lion!" Cang Xingwu bellowed, sending the beast charging toward her.

Cang Yue dodged, but the lion did not stop, tearing toward the palace wall in a burning fury.

"Kyaa!" The scream cut through the chaos, and Cang Yue's heart froze. It was Mei Mei. Cang Yue's personal maid. Who is standing in the line of fire.

"Mei Mei!" Cang Yue's voice was laced with panic as the flaming lion smashed into the palace wall where her maid stood. The air exploded with heat and fire, debris flying as the inferno spread.

But then, miraculously, as the flames cleared, Mei Mei lay on the ground, unharmed but unconscious. The guards rushed to her aid, but none of them realized that Retsu had discreetly summoned a protective barrier at the last second, saving Mei Mei from certain death. Cang Yue didn't notice either — her focus was entirely on the threat before her.

As Cang Yue saw Mei Mei fall unconscious, something deep within her snapped. Her best friend, her loyal attendant who had stood by her side other than Xue Ling, had been in danger, and that was more than Cang Yue could bear. The courtyard seemed to grow still, and in an instant, the atmosphere shifted dramatically.

Mei Mei wasn't just a servant. She was a friend, who stood by her through thick and thin. To see her in danger, to see her hurt… it was more than Cang Yue could tolerate.

The once-clear skies overhead darkened rapidly as thick, ominous clouds gathered. A powerful, foreboding pressure began to emanate from Cang Yue, sending a wave of shock throughout the entire courtyard. Everyone could feel the raw intensity of her rage, and it was unlike anything they had ever experienced. Even Cang Xingwu, still standing arrogantly with his fire arts ready, paused as a cold chill ran down his spine. He felt something terrible brewing in the air.

Cang Wanhe stood up as if he had never seen such moment before. As the heavens are responding to her will.

"W-What is this?!" Cang Xingwu stammered, the fire lion he had conjured flickering and weakening in the face of this overwhelming force. His body trembled as the weight of Cang Yue's Haoshoku Haki bore down on him like an immovable mountain.

The air grew heavy. The once-clear sky darkened as storm clouds began to swirl above the courtyard. Cang Xingwu's grin faltered as the oppressive atmosphere thickened, his instincts screaming at him that something had changed.

Cang Yue's rage had awakened.

Unaware of the exact nature of her own power, her Haoshoku Haki, Cang Yue's anger unleashed itself upon the courtyard. The sheer pressure radiating from her presence was palpable, as though the very heavens were responding to her fury. Imperial guards, attendants, and even the spectators began to feel the weight of it. Some dropped to their knees, others fainted, unable to withstand the overwhelming force.

Cang Xingwu staggered, wide-eyed, unable to comprehend what was happening. His fire arts, which moments ago seemed unstoppable, now felt insignificant in the face of Cang Yue's unleashed power.

"You dare…" Cang Yue's voice was calm but started sounding as if someone else was talking. It crackled with an intensity that made even the bravest shudder. Her eyes locked onto Cang Xingwu, and for the first time, true fear flickered in his eyes.

"Y-You can't… I didn't lose yet!" Cang Xingwu stammered, his bravado crumbling. He raised his hand, summoning another fireball, but it was useless. His body trembled, the fire in his palm flickering weakly as if it, too, feared Cang Yue's wrath.

The sky above rumbled, the dark clouds swirling faster. Thunder cracked, echoing through the courtyard.

Taking this chance, Cang Xingwu saw an opportunity.

"Taste my flames!" Cang Xingwu shouted desperately, hurling another flaming lion with all his might. It blazed toward Cang Yue, splitting into fiery trails and smaller fireballs, but the fireballs dispersed into smaller sparks before they even reached her body.

Cang Yue raised her bamboo pole high, her eyes burning with a cold, unstoppable fury. In one swift, fluid motion, she slammed it into the ground, releasing a shockwave of pure energy. The force exploded outward, disintegrating the ground beneath her and carving a deep trench into the earth, as if a massive blade had cleaved through it.

Cang Xingwu, who had been standing arrogantly just moments before, was now thrown back by the sheer impact. He stumbled, falling hard onto the ground, his eyes wide with disbelief and fear as he struggled to comprehend the power he was witnessing. The force had been so overwhelming that the bamboo pole itself disintegrated in Cang Yue's hands, unable to withstand the torrent of energy coursing through her.

Retsu and Nemu stood up as their flock sister began to change into something or someone else.

Cang Xingwu's eyes widened in disbelief. "How… how is this possible?!"

Something snapped.

The skies darkened in an instant, swirling with ominous clouds. Cang Yue's calm exterior shattered, replaced by a seething anger that roiled beneath the surface. Her Haoshoku Haki burst out uncontrollably, filling the air with overwhelming pressure.

Everything changed in that moment.