章節 210: Chapter 209: Blue Wind Imperial Family vs Burning Heaven Clan (II)

Cang Yue could hardly believe her ears. She had advanced to the Round of 32. The reality of her victory hit her like a wave, and her eyes filled with tears. She stood motionless for a moment, clutching Shusui tightly as the enormity of her achievement settled in.

"To think... I'm the first to advance," she murmured, her voice trembling. "And I defeated the Burning Heaven Clan's elite..."

Her breath hitched as she wiped at her tears. Her father, her family—they would no longer bear the shame of years past. This time, the Blue Wind Imperial Family had a champion. "I did it, Father… Big Sis," she whispered, her voice breaking. If not for Yun Che and Retsu, she thought, she would still be on the sidelines, watching helplessly as her family was humiliated yet again. They had given her strength, purpose, and a way forward.

The crowd erupted in disbelief. The once-overlooked Blue Wind Imperial Family had shattered expectations, with their princess carrying the torch into the Round of 32. Many whispered in amazement, their eyes fixed on the woman standing tall in the center of the arena.

Meanwhile, in the Burning Heaven Clan's section, the mood was a stark contrast. A suffocating silence hung in the air as Fen Yuange's unconscious body was dragged out of the arena. The sting of humiliation weighed heavily on their shoulders.

The silence deepened when Fen Duanhun, the clan master and father of Fen Juecheng, Fen Juebi, and Fen Juechen, descended from the skies. His landing in the seating zone was a storm in itself, his presence exuding fury. His gaze locked onto the defeated Fen Yuange being carried away, his expression unreadable but his aura sharp enough to cut steel.

The Burning Heaven Clan members bowed their heads, unwilling to meet his gaze. The clan's elite had fallen, and with it, their chances of entering the Round of 32. Their defeat was now the talk of the arena, but for Fen Duanhun, it was a wound to his pride that would not soon heal.

"What the hell happened?!" Fen Duanhun's aura erupted in fury, his power as a 9th Level Sky Profound Realm cultivator crashing down on the Burning Heaven Clan's elders. Even Fen Moli, one of the senior members, trembled under the weight of his anger.

"Clan Master, we were paired against the Blue Wind Imperial Family," Fen Moli managed to say, his voice shaky.

Fen Duanhun grabbed Fen Moli by his robes and yanked him forward, his eyes burning with rage. "Why did we lose against those weaklings?!"

"Clan Master, they were led by Yun Che, Unohana Retsu, and Princess Cang Yue herself," Fen Moli stammered, the names themselves carrying an almost tangible weight.

Fen Duanhun's eyes widened at the mention of Yun Che and his companions. His fury deepened, but there was a flicker of unease in his gaze. Those names haunted him—especially Yun Che, whose actions had disrupted his plans and tainted the pride of the Burning Heaven Clan. The memory of Yun Che's raid on the dragon cave resurfaced, a wound to their honor that had never healed.

"They must be cheating!" Fen Duanhun bellowed, his voice echoing in the hall. "There's no way the Imperial Family could defeat us! I demand an explanation!"

"You demand nothing," a calm, authoritative voice interrupted.

Fen Duanhun froze, his eyes snapping toward the source. Ling Wugou, the respected organizer of the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament, stepped into view, his presence commanding silence.

"There is no need for an explanation," Ling Wugou continued, his tone sharp and final. "The results were fair, and the victories earned. If your clan has grievances, address them through honorable means, not baseless accusations."

Fen Duanhun's fury surged as he fixed Ling Wugou with a glare that could have scorched stone. "Ling Wugou… How is it possible? One of the Four Great Sects—the Burning Heaven Clan—losing to the Imperial Family?! Explain!"

Ling Wugou remained composed, his tone calm yet unyielding. "The tournament ensures fairness, Clan Master Fen Duanhun. If the Burning Heaven Clan was defeated, it is a reflection of fate—and skill."

"You dare dismiss our loss as mere fate?!" Fen Duanhun's snarl reverberated through the hall. "We will not accept this humiliation!"

"Clan Master!" Fen Moli interjected, attempting to pacify his leader, but Fen Duanhun's aura flared violently, forcing the elder to recoil.

Before the tension could escalate further, a commanding voice rang out. "I recommend you stand down, Fen Duanhun."

All eyes turned to Ling Yuefeng, the master of the Heavenly Sword Villa, who stepped forward with a calm yet authoritative air.

"Ling Yuefeng!" Fen Duanhun barked, his frustration uncontained. "Our clan has suffered irreparable humiliation! We are one of the Four Great Sects—how could this happen?"

Ling Yuefeng's gaze was steady, his voice carrying both reasoning and rebuke. "Do you think your clan is the only one to face such a setback? Our Heavenly Sword Villa lost one of our elites before the second round. The Xiao Sect has already been eliminated from two matches. Only Frozen Cloud Asgard remains unscathed. Tell me, do you truly believe the Four Great Sects still hold the dominance we once boasted of?"

"What?" Fen Duanhun's expression twisted in disbelief. "The Xiao Sect has lost twice? The Heavenly Sword Villa has fallen as well?"

"The tides are changing," Ling Yuefeng replied, his tone grim. "It is not only your clan facing this reality. Look at the strength of your opponents—Yun Che, Unohana Retsu, and Princess Cang Yue herself. Did you forget who they are?"

Fen Duanhun stiffened, the names striking like a hammer to his pride. Yun Che, the very man who had raided the dragon cave, defied their forces, and perhaps walked away with untold treasures. Unohana Retsu, cloaked in mystery yet undeniably powerful. And Princess Cang Yue, wielding techniques of unparalleled might, no doubt learned from her enigmatic master—a figure whose shadow loomed over them all.

Fen Duanhun's teeth ground audibly as the truth settled over him like an unbearable weight. The balance of power was shifting, and the Burning Heaven Clan, despite its pride and status, was no longer invincible.

"I recommend you avoid provoking her protector as well," Ling Yuefeng said quietly, his words sharp as a blade before he leaped into the air, vanishing into the distance.

Fen Duanhun clenched his fists, his gaze drawn involuntarily to Xue Ling, who stood calmly observing him. Her mere presence exuded a terrifying aura of dominance.

"Fourth Level Emperor Profound Realm?!" Fen Duanhun's thoughts screamed in disbelief. That realm of power was one the Burning Heaven Clan as a whole could barely rival. Since when has the Blue Wind Imperial Family harbored such a superpower?

The weight of this realization crushed the remnants of his pride. He looked toward the figures of Yun Che, Unohana Retsu, and Princess Cang Yue. Not only were they individually formidable, but they were also shielded by a guardian of such overwhelming strength and undoubtedly backed by Cang Yue's master, whose reputation alone made sect leaders tremble.

The truth hit him like a landslide—threatening the Blue Wind Imperial Family was no longer an option. The power dynamics had shifted, and Fen Duanhun could only grit his teeth in bitter frustration. The once-mighty Burning Heaven Clan was now a shadow of its former glory, powerless to challenge a force that had outgrown them in every way.

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Cang Yue returned to her corner of the arena, a wide, triumphant smile lighting up her face as the audience erupted into cheers. The deafening applause was a testament to her achievement—she had become the first to advance to the Round of 32.

Xue Ling ran to her as she went to see her father, throwing her arms around her in a celebratory hug. "You did it, Yue'er."

"Onee-chan! Omedetou!" Before Cang Yue could respond, 'Nezuko' swooped in, hugging her tightly, her energy bubbling with excitement. Behind her, Little Fairy and Chu Yueli approached with smiles, their movements graceful as always.

"Well done, Sister Yue. You've proven yourself today," Little Fairy said softly, a rare glimmer of pride in her usually calm demeanor.

"You fought brilliantly," Chu Yueli added, her voice tinged with admiration.

Cang Yue wiped a few tears from her cheeks, her smile unwavering. "Thank you, Sister Yuechan, Sister Yueli. I never imagined I'd make it this far."

Little Fairy gently placed a hand on her head, her expression uncharacteristically warm. "You've come a long way. From the timid princess I tied up when I first met you at New Moon Profound Palace to this... Look at you now."

"Tied up?" Chu Yueli and Xue Ling wondered.

"Ehee... long story." Cang Yue grins.

Xue Ling chimed in, a grin spreading across her face as she ruffled Cang Yue's hair. "That's right. You really can do anything when you put your mind to it. I'm so proud of you."

After sharing a few more words of encouragement, the Chu sisters departed, leaving Cang Yue to savor her moment with those closest to her. She turned to her father, Cang Wanhe, who approached her with pride etched deeply into his features.

"I did it, Father," she said, her voice breaking as tears began to stream down her face. Years of humiliation and ridicule—the weight her father had borne after countless tournament losses—flashed through her mind. She had finally given him something to hold his head high about.

Her father pulled her into a tight embrace, his own tears flowing freely. "You did, Yue'er. You've given me the greatest gift an old man could ever ask for. You've fulfilled a dream I thought was long gone."

At his side, Qin Wushang nodded, his eyes glistening with pride. He remembered the days when Cang Yue was just a third-level True Profound Realm cultivator—barely noticed by anyone. Now, here she stood, a contender who had defied all odds.

"I couldn't have done it alone," Cang Yue murmured, smiling through her tears. Her thoughts turned to Yun Che and Retsu, the two people who had shaped her path the most. "I'll wait for them. Retsu-chan, Che'er... I couldn't have come this far without them."

Her resolve renewed, Cang Yue looked out over the crowd, the cheers and admiration washing over her like a tide. This was her moment—a moment she would carry with her forever.

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Second Battle = Blue Wind Imperial Family – Unohana Retsu -----versus----- Burning Heaven Clan, Fen Jin

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Fen Duanhun's nails dug into his palms as he clenched his fists. The reputation of the Burning Heaven Clan rested on Fen Jin, one of his elites. His opponent? The enigmatic Unohana Retsu—a woman whispered to wield overwhelming power, beauty that bewitched, and an arsenal of strange abilities. According to his son, she had single-handedly subdued hordes of Spirit Profound Realm warriors and even displayed techniques akin to Princess Cang Yue's. A threat that defied logic.

On the stage, Fen Jin prepared himself, his aura flaring as he assessed his opponent. Fen Yuange lost and he needed to top up his performance.

"Ufufu… Looks like it's my turn," Retsu said with a soft chuckle, adjusting her uchikatsugi hat. With an elegant motion, she grabbed her parasol and stepped forward, exuding an air of serene confidence.

"Finish this quickly, Retsu," Yun Che called out from the sidelines, smirking. "Then I'll take the stage and bust that guy's balls." His mischievous grin was aimed squarely at Fen Juebi, his own upcoming opponent. For someone about to face a challenger, Yun Che seemed infuriatingly relaxed.

Retsu glide gracefully onto the stage, calm and unhurried. With a practiced motion, she unfolded and activated her parasol, revealing its new hidden weapon: the modified halberd. The parasol's transformation was seamless, the intricate design giving way to a deadly weapon that gleamed under the light.

"I'll stick with this," Retsu murmured to herself, gripping the halberd's handle. Though she possessed an arsenal of weapons and techniques, she had chosen this one—familiarizing herself further with its feel and flow.

The arena was silent with anticipation, all eyes locked on the match between Unohana Retsu and Fen Jin. The latter couldn't ignore the unease creeping into his mind, especially after witnessing Fen Yuange's crushing defeat by Princess Cang Yue's overwhelming power. Determined not to repeat his ally's humiliation, Fen Jin tightened his grip on the Burning Heaven Sword. This time, he would go all out.

Retsu stood calmly, her uchikatsugi hat veiling her expression. She hadn't spoken a word, her serene demeanor contrasting sharply with Fen Jin's fiery determination.

"Both fighters ready?" the referee's voice echoed through the arena.

Neither contestant replied. Retsu's silence was unnerving, her unreadable aura like a still lake hiding untold depths. Fen Jin narrowed his eyes, not daring to underestimate her.

"Begin!"

"Thousand Scorching Suns!" Fen Jin roared, activating his Burning Heaven Clan's profound arts to catch her off guard. The audience swallow a deep breath as Fen Jin begins his attack with a powerful art instead of testing the waters. Behind him, countless fireballs ignited, swirling in a fiery swarm. He thrust his sword forward, sending the fireballs hurtling toward Retsu in a relentless barrage.

Retsu didn't flinch. With a fluid motion, she spun her halberd, the blade gleaming like moonlight. Each fireball met her weapon in a graceful arc, deflected or sliced apart with unnerving precision. Sparks rained down around her as she twirled and maneuvered effortlessly, her movements as much an art form as a battle strategy.

"Field Burning Slash!" Fen Jin roared, swinging his Burning Heaven Sword with all his might. A massive arc of fire erupted from the blade, surging toward Retsu like a molten tidal wave.

With a graceful spin, Retsu's halberd carved through the air, slicing apart the fiery arc as if it were nothing more than a fleeting shadow. The flames dissipated in a burst of embers, and before Fen Jin could regroup, Retsu surged forward with alarming speed.

Her halberd became a blur, the long weapon's range and versatility forcing Fen Jin into a frantic defensive stance. He parried and dodged, each of her strikes calculated and relentless. Her attack power became stronger and heavier in each strike.

"Damn it!" Fen Jin gritted his teeth, realizing her mastery of weaponry was far beyond his expectations. The seamless shift between her defensive counters and aggressive offense left him no room to breathe, let alone execute another technique.

Their weapons clashed with a cacophony of metal, sparks flying as Fen Jin struggled to match her rhythm. Retsu, however, remained eerily calm, her movements fluid and efficient. She pressed him harder, alternating between precise thrusts, sweeping arcs, and spinning flourishes with her halberd.

Yun Che leaned back with a smirk, arms crossed as he watched Retsu leave the arena. Her movements had been precise, elegant, and devastating—a performance that left no room for doubt about her abilities.

"Unbelievable," he murmured to himself, his tone laced with both admiration and intrigue. "She only picked up that halberd today, and now she's wielding it like she's used it for years."

Her mastery over the weapon was evolving before his eyes. From seamless transitions between hand-to-hand combat and halberd strikes to incorporating her unique style with the water lilies, Retsu had turned the weapon into an extension of herself. The precision of her strikes and her adaptability under pressure showcased a natural talent that few could rival.

Yun Che couldn't help but grin. "At this rate, it's only a matter of time before she starts executing high-level techniques with ease."

He tapped his chin thoughtfully. "If she can develop such a connection with a weapon in just a day, imagine what she could become with proper training...Might as well learn to become a battle mage." The thought sparked excitement in him. Retsu had the makings of a true weapon master, someone who could seamlessly integrate multiple styles and techniques into her combat.

The crowd watched in stunned silence, captivated by the unfolding duel. Fen Jin's fiery techniques had been his pride, yet against Retsu's serene ferocity, they seemed insignificant.

Fen Jin knew he had to turn the tide, but Retsu's mastery was overwhelming, leaving him questioning whether he had any chance at all.

He leaped back, the desperation in his movements apparent as he unleashed Field Burning Slash after Field Burning Slash in rapid succession. The fiery arcs filled the arena, their heat palpable even to the distant spectators. He didn't stop, his sword a blur as he conjured attack after attack, the sheer ferocity of his offensive igniting the crowd's excitement.

On the other side, Retsu stood calm and composed. Her halberd spun effortlessly, deflecting the burning slashes with precision and elegance. The air hummed with power as she countered Fen Jin's onslaught with her own unique flair. The familiar technique from her earlier battles returned, petals swirling as she infused her air slash strike with illusion kido. The cherry blossom-laden air slash collided with Fen Jin's fiery arcs, neutralizing them in brilliant explosions of fire and light.

Fen Jin's strategy became clear to Retsu. Overwhelm her. Push her back with relentless attacks. His plan, while bold, was flawed. "Ufufu…" Retsu chuckled softly, her voice carrying a chilling confidence.

With a graceful twirl of her halberd, her reiatsu flowing like a gentle current as she activated her new kido spell. The arena's atmosphere shifted. A soft drizzle began to fall, and the ground glistened as water materialized out of thin air. The air grew cooler, a serene beauty overtaking the battleground.

The arena had undergone a breathtaking transformation. The once solid, rugged ground was now a vast, square-shaped lake, its surface shimmering under an otherworldly light. Fen Jin, wide-eyed and bewildered, found himself standing atop the water as if it were solid ground. The audience erupted into gasps of disbelief, their eyes darting between each other in search of answers.

Even the elders, seasoned and unshaken by most spectacles, leaned forward in their seats. The phenomenon before them teetered on the edge of possibility. "An illusion?" one elder murmured, his voice tinged with doubt. If it was, then it was one so flawlessly executed it felt indistinguishable from reality.

"She turned the entire arena into a lake... how is this possible?" whispered another, his tone betraying a mix of awe and trepidation.

Fen Jin's breaths were shallow, his body instinctively on edge. The unnatural stillness of the water beneath him, the soft, rippling movements of the cherry blossoms and lilies drifting by—it was all too vivid, too tangible to dismiss as mere trickery. His mind raced as he tried to process the scene.

"What... what is this? Some kind of profound art? Or sorcery?" he muttered, gripping his sword tighter. His confidence, already shaken, began to crumble further.

Little Fairy widened her eyes, her thoughts racing. She recognized that Retsu was using Kido—a technique foreign to the profound ways of the Blue Wind Continent—but she had never imagined it could transform the entire arena into what appeared to be her domain. The feat resembled the might of an Emperor Profound Realm cultivator wielding a domain, yet what Retsu used was distinctly different. It wasn't a domain in the true sense; she had effectively terraformed the arena into a lake, a feat that still adhered to the boundaries of the tournament's barrier.

"Is this domain arts?" Chu Yueli asked, her voice uncertain as Nezuko cheered enthusiastically in the background.

"No," Little Fairy replied, her tone firm yet puzzled. "Domains alter the entire area indiscriminately. What she's done is transform the arena itself, but her techniques haven't breached the barrier. It's something else entirely."

Gong Yuxian, who had been listening silently, studied Retsu with growing intrigue. How did I overlook such talent? she thought. This girl wasn't just powerful—she was utterly unique. There had been no word, no whispers in the sects, of someone with her level of mastery and innovation. As if he existence was known now.

Xia Qingyue, standing nearby, mirrored her master's curiosity. Her mind churned with questions. Aunt Lingxi had mentioned that Retsu had come alongside Yun Che, that she had known him far longer than Qingyue herself. Were they training partners? Allies before I even knew him? Qingyue wondered, her calm exterior masking the storm within.

Her gaze shifted to Princess Cang Yue, the once-timid royal who had also risen to prominence alongside Yun Che. How had these two women flourished so quickly under his influence? she mused. If Retsu's and Cang Yue's strength was any indication, then the true depths of Yun Che's abilities, if he were to unleash them fully, might surpass anything she could imagine.

Who is this Unohana Retsu?

Across from him, Retsu stood poised and serene, the veiled hat hiding her eyes but not the tranquil confidence radiating from her. Her halberd rested lightly in her hand, its blade reflecting the faint glimmers of the water and blossoms around her. She took a slow step forward, the water rippling gently under her feet.

The crowd gasped as cherry blossoms and water lilies began to bloom across the shimmering surface. The petals floated gracefully, forming ripples as they touched the water. Slowly, the water lilies lifted into the air, creating a surreal dance of petals and blossoms that seemed otherworldly.

Fen Jin sneered. "Flower rain? This is your answer to my fire? Mere droplets won't extinguish my flames!" He unleashed another barrage of fiery slashes and fireballs, determined to shatter her calm façade.

But to his shock, the water lilies moved as if alive. They floated gracefully into the paths of his attacks, intercepting them with perfect timing. Each fireball was extinguished upon impact, the lilies dissolving into ripples of water before reforming effortlessly.

The arena was entranced. Retsu appeared otherworldly, gliding through the scene like a swan on a pristine lake, her movements fluid and enchanting. The cherry blossoms and lilies shielded her as though they were extensions of her will, countering every attack Fen Jin threw.

"This… this is impossible!" Fen Jin's frustration mounted as his strongest techniques proved useless. He slashed wildly, but it was as if he were fighting the very essence of nature itself.

The petals swirled, the lilies glowed faintly, and the battlefield itself seemed to bow to her command. Fen Jin stood frozen, realizing he was not just battling a warrior—he was facing a force of nature.

Fen Jin, drenched in sweat and pride hanging by a thread, unleashed a torrent of his clan's most devastating techniques. His "Burning Heaven Flame, Pyretic Hell" surged forth as crimson flames erupted violently around him, bathing the arena in an oppressive heat. He hurled streams of crimson fire at Retsu with reckless abandon, hoping to overwhelm her.

Fen Duanhun's eyes widened in disbelief. How was it possible for a Spirit Profound Realm cultivator like Fen Jin to wield the Burning Heaven Flame, Pyretic Hell? Such a technique demanded power at least near the Earth Profound Realm, if not the Sky Profound Realm, to sustain it effectively—it drained profound energy like an open tap. Yet Fen Jin had unleashed it relentlessly.

"So, that's how it is…" Yun Che mused aloud, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. His suspicions were right on target. He had already observed the erratic and unnatural behavior of Fen Yuange during Cang Yue's match and now saw the confirmation unfold before him.

"They're using underhanded tactics," Yun Che concluded, his tone laced with both irritation and amusement.

But the water lilies, as if imbued with a will of their own, rose effortlessly to block each incoming attack. They burst into shimmering droplets upon contact with the flames, neutralizing their destructive force entirely.

Retsu smirked, twirling her halberd like an elegant extension of herself. "Ufuu… you're persistent. " Her tone carried a teasing lilt, only further infuriating Fen Jin.

"Damn you! If that won't work, then try this!" Fen Jin bellowed, his desperation mounting. He began channeling his profound energy into a new form, crimson flames encasing his body and splitting into dozens of figures.

"Burning Phantom Illusion!" he roared.

Suddenly, the arena was swarmed with his duplicates, each moving with blinding speed, their forms indistinguishable from the original. The audience gasped in amazement and confusion as the clones surrounded Retsu, circling her like a pack of predators.

Retsu's expression remained calm beneath her veiled hat. With a soft hum, her Eagle Vision activated, instantly cutting through the illusion. To the untrained eye, the phantoms seemed identical, but to her, they were faint shadows of the real Fen Jin, lacking the subtle details of movement and energy unique to the original.

"A clever trick, but that's all it is." She spun her halberd with fluid precision, slashing through the advancing phantoms with thrusts so sharp they left streaks of shimmering water in their wake. Each clone dissipated like smoke under the force of her strikes, their assaults ineffective against her controlled defense.

The clones swarmed relentlessly, but they were little more than distractions—cannon fodder sent to buy Fen Jin time. Retsu, however, was a step ahead. She moved with a dancer's grace, each strike eliminating a clone in a flurry of blossoms and ripples.

"Is that it?" she called out, her voice carrying easily over the chaos.

Fen Jin growled in frustration, his original body hidden amidst the phantoms. "Arrogant witch! I'll end you!"

The crowd fell silent, watching as Retsu effortlessly dispersed the clones with a serene spin of her halberd. Her movements were unhurried, as if she were orchestrating a delicate performance rather than engaging in combat. The battlefield had become her stage, and Fen Jin her unwilling participant.

"Hmm... it's about time I ended this," she said softly, her voice carrying an unsettling calm that sent chills down Fen Jin's spine.

Kneeling gracefully amidst the illusory lake, she released a single water lily onto the shimmering surface. It floated gently, its soft glow captivating the audience. Even the raging Fen Jin momentarily hesitated, his eyes narrowing at the seemingly harmless flower.

"What are you playing at? Giving up?" Fen Jin sneered. The clones surged forward, a sea of flames and illusions converging on her. From a distance, he unleashed a barrage of crimson fire, intent on overwhelming her completely. "Consider it an honor to have lasted this long!"

Retsu chuckled lightly, her tone unwavering. "An honor indeed, but not for me." With a snap of her fingers, the single water lily burst into a mesmerizing wave of water. The ripple expanded outward in an instant, engulfing the arena.

The clones vanished as if consumed by the tide, their fiery energy extinguished by the cool embrace of the water. Fen Jin cried out as the rippling energy collided with him, the impact staggering. His crimson flames were doused, his body trembling under the shockwaves of the lilies' explosion.

Gasps erupted from the audience as Fen Jin stumbled to his knees, his sword shaking in his grasp. He struggled to maintain composure, but the exhaustion from his failed assault was evident. Retsu approached, gliding across the water as if it welcomed her steps, her halberd poised with precision.

"When you stepped onto the water, you had already lost," she said softly, her halberd's blade hovering just below his neck.

Fen Jin's aura grew erratic as the crimson flames from his body surged uncontrollably, a dangerous glow flickering in his eyes. "Unacceptable... unacceptable... We, the Burning Heaven Clan, lost?!" he growled, his voice trembling with a mix of fury and despair. The flames spiraled higher, and the audience gasped, captivated by the volatile spectacle.

Retsu, ever calm, narrowed her eyes and took a measured step back, her instincts immediately sensing the unstable burst of profound energy. She twirled her halberd into a ready position.

On the sidelines, Fen Juecheng and Fen Juebi exchanged knowing smirks. The forbidden substance they had provided Fen Jin had finally pushed his dantian into overdrive, forcing his power beyond its natural limits.

The arena grew silent as the flames condensed around Fen Jin, his crimson aura blazing like an inferno. "HUARRGGHHH!!!" He roared, the sound reverberating across the arena. His energy surged, and he launched himself toward Retsu with frenzied strikes, each blow carrying immense destructive force.

Retsu met his assault head-on, her halberd moving like a blur. She deflected and parried each strike with precision as she divert his destructive force to the waters of her technique, her serene composure a stark contrast to Fen Jin's wild aggression. Sparks flew with every clash, and the arena echoed with the sound of metal against metal.

With a feral scream, Fen Jin formed a massive orb of crimson flames, hurling it directly at her. Retsu reacted instantly, snapping her parasol into its shield form and planting it firmly before her. The flames crashed against the barrier, dissipating harmlessly.

Undeterred, Fen Jin dashed to her flank, hoping to strike from a blind spot. However, Retsu anticipated the move, raising the halberd's shaft just in time to block his blade. "Predictable," she murmured softly, her voice carrying a subtle edge of disdain.

Seizing the opening, Retsu charged her palm with energy and struck directly at Fen Jin's dantian. The impact sent him staggering back, his flames flickering violently as his control began to slip.

His body trembled under the strain of the unnatural power coursing through him. The flames around him became wild and unstable, threatening to consume him entirely.

The audience held their breath, sensing the conclusion was imminent.

In a final act of desperation, Fen Jin lunged forward, his sword gripped tightly in trembling hands. His cry of defiance echoed through the arena, but it was short-lived. With a graceful sweep of her halberd, Retsu deflected his strike effortlessly, sending sparks flying. Before he could recover, she raised her palm and delivered a precise strike, launching him into the air.

Under her veiled hat, Retsu smirked as water lilies began to materialize midair, their delicate petals latching onto Fen Jin's body. In a heartbeat, the lilies erupted into a chain of controlled explosions, each bursting with a brilliant, floral glow that lit up the arena. The force of the blasts sent shockwaves rippling through the air, and Fen Jin's sword shattered into pieces with a resounding crack.

Fen Duanhun's eyes widened in disbelief as he watched the Burning Heaven Sword obliterated, his horror mirrored in the gasps of the crowd. The explosions were so powerful that they shattered the reinforced barriers surrounding the arena, leaving the officials of the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament speechless.

"Who the hell is this woman?!" Fen Duanhun's mind screamed in disbelief, his thoughts a chaotic whirlwind. Beside him, Ling Wugou could only stare, his eyes unable to tear away from the spectacle.

"Huaarrggghhhh!" Fen Jin's agonized scream pierced the air as his body plummeted into the watery arena below. He landed with a splash, the once-pristine surface now rippling with the force of his fall. Twitching, broken, and barely clinging to consciousness, he still refused to yield.

With a final burst of defiance, he stumbled to his feet, his broken blade shaking in his hand. He lunged forward in a blind, desperate charge.

But Retsu was ready. With one swift motion, she parried his attack and, her free hand glowed faintly as she struck with precision, targeting the pressure points at his neck and dantian. A pulse of energy rippled through him, shutting down his resistance.

Fen Jin collapsed into the water, motionless save for the faint rise and fall of his chest.

The impact sent him crumpling, his face meeting the water's surface as he lost consciousness. The crowd erupted in cheers and astonished murmurs as Retsu stood over him, victorious. With a final snap of her fingers, the illusory lake and lilies vanished, leaving behind the familiar arena floor.

"Ufuu… the Burning Heaven Clan is not that amusing. If Yuu-kun doesn't like them, then I have no reason to." she murmured, stepping away with her halberd resting lightly on her shoulder, leaving Fen Jin defeated and the audience in awe.

The announcer's voice echoed through the arena.

"Blue Wind Imperial Family – Unohana Retsu wins! She will advance to the round of 32 tomorrow!"

The crowd erupted in cheers. Two decisive victories over the Burning Heaven Clan had sent shockwaves through the audience. Fen Jin and Fen Yuange's defeats at the hands of the Blue Wind Imperial Family were not just losses—they were public humiliations for one of the Four Great Sects.

In the stands, whispers and murmurs rippled like wildfire.

"The Burning Heaven Clan is losing their edge."

"Can you believe it? First two rounds, and they're already falling apart!"

Fen Duanhun sat rigid, his fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles turned white. Each murmur and scoff felt like a blade twisting deeper into his pride. He had never anticipated such a debacle, and the sting of public ridicule was unbearable.

His thoughts darkened further as his mind wandered to the Xiao Sect. Once one of the Four Great Sects, they had fallen into disgrace after losing both their Grand Elders to the swordsman Mihawk. Now, Xiao Kuanglei was their only notable representative after Xiao Zhen and Xiao Nan defeated by Yun Che and Retsu. The Xiao Sect's fate had been a cautionary tale, one Fen Duanhun never thought would apply to his Burning Heaven Clan. Yet here they were, teetering on the edge of a similar collapse.

"To think we've lost two matches before the round of 32," he muttered under his breath, his tone heavy with disbelief and bitterness. "If we fail again, we'll go down as the first of the Four Great Sects to be disgraced like this."

His gaze shifted to his son, Fen Juebi. The weight of the clan's legacy now rested squarely on his shoulders.

"Juebi," Fen Duanhun said, his voice low and commanding. "Whatever happens, you must defeat Yun Che. One of us has to make it to the round of 32. Do not fail me. Do not disgrace the clan further."

Fen Juebi's jaw tightened as he nodded. "I won't, Father. I have a plan. Even if it means carrying this burden alone, I will win."

His hand slipped into his robes, fingers brushing against a small vial of ominous red pills. The pills exuded a dark and unnatural aura, a forbidden power that had already been shared with Fen Yuange and Fen Jin—though their consumption hadn't been enough to secure victory. Fen Juebi's resolve hardened.

"I'll take more if I have to," he thought grimly. "I won't lose. I can't lose."

As the crowd buzzed with anticipation for the next round, the Burning Heaven Clan's future hung precariously in the balance. Fen Juebi's match against Yun Che would determine whether they could salvage their pride—or sink further into humiliation.

---------------------

The crowd buzzed with excitement and speculation, captivated by the unprecedented display. The ability to manipulate water and flowers to transform the entire arena had left many stunned. Then, what more she hides aside from being a parasol weapon master?

"Does she possess a domain technique? Is she secretly an Emperor Profound Realm cultivator" one murmured.

"If so, why is it only she can utilize it?" another speculated.

Retsu's mastery was now a topic of both awe and caution. Among the observers, Xia Qingyue silently evaluated her, her usually composed expression tinged with a hint of unease.

"This Unohana Retsu is no ordinary woman," Xia Qingyue thought. "I'll need to be fully prepared should we cross paths in the round of 32."

As Retsu exited the arena, she returned the halberd to its parasol form with a calm flick of her wrist. Her steps were steady, but her mind lingered on an odd sensation she had felt during the match. When she delivered the final blow to Fen Jin's neck, an unusual surge of profound energy had pulsed beneath his skin. She had struck precisely at the artery, ensuring a clean and effective knockout, yet the energy still puzzled her.

Cang Yue's elated voice snapped her out of her thoughts as the princess practically leapt into her arms.

"We did it, Retsu-chan! Now it's up to Che'er, and the Blue Wind Imperial Family will advance to the round of 32!"

The excitement in Cang Yue's voice was infectious. Her face was glowing with pride and joy, and she clung to Retsu with unrestrained enthusiasm.

At the viewing stands, Cang Wanhe beamed with pride. His imperial family had secured two victories, a monumental step in restoring their prestige. One more win and his family not only bested the Burning Heaven Clan, they also in the same rank as Frozen Cloud Asgard with all three members in the final round.

"Two in the round of 32," he murmured to himself. "Not just for this year, but this will echo for generations. When Yue'er's beauties completed their training, they'll be unstoppable and will become the Blue Wind Imperial Family's backbone."

Retsu chuckled softly, patting Cang Yue's back as she hugged her.

"Ufufu… Someone's excited."

Cang Yue grinned, barely able to contain her excitement. "Of course I am!"

Nemu approached with her signature calm demeanor, raising her thumb in approval. "Good work as always, Nee-sama."

Mio leaned in with a mischievous grin. "As expected from my Ret-chan. Using flowers to crush your enemies—Elegant!"

Retsu gave a modest smile, enjoying the warm camaraderie of her team. However, the unusual surge of profound energy from Fen Jin lingered in her mind like a distant storm cloud, a subtle reminder that even victory could hide mysteries yet to be unraveled.

"Great work, sweetie," Yun Che said warmly, patting Retsu's head with a grin. "But tell me—what kind of skills were you using out there? How did you manage to change the entire arena to suit your style?"

Retsu chuckled softly, her usual calm elegance shining through. "Ufuu… It's a combination of techniques. I used compressed air skills layered with illusion-based kido. The kido creates a visual mask, hiding the true nature of my attacks. For example, the lilies and sakura petals? Those are actually compressed air slashes, bombs, and projectiles disguised to fit the illusion."

"Air bombs?" Cang Yue widened her eyes in astonishment.

"Ufuu, something I learnt from Yuu-kun, with Nemu's simplify explanation. I was able to come up with it." Retsu smiled as she was curious on what did she learn and why it was so powerful.

Yun Che's eyes widened in admiration. "So, the water was part of the illusion too?"

Retsu nodded. "Exactly. The water was a simple illusion, meant to mislead opponents and enhance the atmosphere. The real attacks were all hidden in plain sight, concealed by the kido's effects."

Nemu's usually stoic face softened with a hint of pride. "That's clever thinking, Nee-sama."

Retsu turned to her with a teasing smirk. "It's Nee-chan!"

Nemu blinked, then corrected herself with an uncharacteristically playful tone. "Nee-sama is Nee-sama."

"Mouuu…" Retsu sighs.

-------------------

Fen Moli sat stiffly, his expression as heavy as a storm-laden sky. The humiliation of the Burning Heaven Clan weighed on his shoulders, a burden he could scarcely endure.

The image of Fen Jin's crushing defeat at the hands of Unohana Retsu replayed endlessly in his mind. His grandson—one of the core disciples of the clan—had not just lost but had been humiliated, forced to leave the stage in utter disgrace. Fen Moli could hardly believe the once-proud Burning Heaven Clan had suffered such a blow.

His jaw tightened. Being ranked at the bottom of the Four Major Sects was a bitter pill, but it was one they had long grown used to swallowing. Yet the thought of placing below that—outside the top four entirely—was unthinkable. It would tarnish the clan's name, undo centuries of pride, and bring shame so deep that even the ancestors would stir in their graves. Such a result hadn't occurred for hundreds of years, and Fen Moli let it happen under his watch.

Now, all hope rested on Fen Juebi. The disciple's strength and mastery of the Burning Heaven Clan's techniques were formidable, and Fen Moli clung to the belief that this battle would redeem their honor.

"Juebi must succeed," he muttered to himself, his hands clenched tightly in his lap. He turned his gaze toward the arena, where the battle raged. His nerves felt like taut strings, ready to snap at the slightest provocation.

For the Burning Heaven Clan, this was more than just a fight—it was a fight for their legacy.

-----

As the group settled down for lunch, Retsu leaned closer to Yun Che, her voice calm but edged with concern. "Yuu-kun… you were right. They're playing dirty."

Yun Che nodded knowingly, his expression darkening. "You felt it too, huh? They're using some kind of performance enhancer—essentially steroids. That's why they're able to fire off so many attacks without tiring. Fen Jin should've been exhausted with the amount of profound energy he was burning, but he wasn't. Same thing happened in Little Yue's match."

Retsu tilted her head, curious. "Steroids?"

Nemu took it upon herself to explain. "It means they're artificially boosting their energy reserves, Nee-sama. It prevents fatigue, letting them unleash attacks endlessly, but it comes at a cost. Likely long-term damage to their bodies."

"However," Yun Che began, his tone analytical, "they look truly desperate. Fen Yuange consumed just enough to sustain his strength, but even then, he couldn't defeat Little Yue. I assume Fen Jin, in his desperation, consumed far more, and now he's paying the price. His condition resembles the Wu Clan's feral state after overdosing on forbidden techniques, but this… it's worse. I can sense it—his profound veins are starting to deteriorate."

Retsu nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Yuu-kun, we've won two matches, but that Fen Juebi... he'll be desperate. He'll try anything to beat you." Her words lingered in the air, heavy with unspoken concern. "If that happens…" Retsu trailed off, her gaze steady and calm, yet hinting at a storm beneath.

Yun Che smirked, his confidence unwavering. "If that happens, he'll regret it."

Cang Yue's delicate brow furrowed in frustration. "Such underhanded methods! No wonder my opponent was relentless with his flame traps. Should we report this to the officials?"

Yun Che leaned back, smirking with quiet confidence. "No need. Let them cheat all they want. It doesn't matter to us—steroids or not, they're still going to lose."

Cang Yue blinked at his nonchalance, then smiled faintly. His unwavering confidence had a way of putting them all at ease. "You're right. We've beaten them at their best; we can do it again."

Retsu, ever composed, added with a playful smile, "Ufufu… Let them dig their graves deeper. It'll only make their defeat more satisfying."

Speaking of coincidence…

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Final Second Round Match – Blue Wind Imperial Family Yun Che ----versus----- Burning Heaven Clan – Fen Juebi

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The match that will decide the fate of the Burning Heaven Clan.