Rebirth in Against the Gods with The Ultimate System

As Ling Wugou concluded his announcement, a shimmering, transparent profound barrier rose around the entire fighting arena, encasing it in a protective shield. Within each of the thirty smaller arenas, another barrier emerged, ensuring that no outside interference could disrupt the matches and prevent any cheating from occurring.

Then, the attention of the spectators was drawn to the arrival of thirty well-prepared middle-aged men, who descended gracefully to the arena floor using the impressive 'Profound Floating Technique.' Nemu and Cang Yue could only watch in envy, their hearts yearning to master the ability to fly. Despite Nemu's proficiency in materializing air with her reiatsu, she could only jump atop it, while Cang Yue could merely dream of soaring through the skies. Both of them often joined Yun Che, Mio, Retsu, and even Kon during training sessions, hitching rides with them as they practiced their aerial maneuvers. They longed for the day when they too could take flight alongside their companions.

With the arrival of the middle-aged referees, each assigned to oversee a specific arena, the competing groups were called upon to prepare for their matches. Double-checking their assigned numbers, the members of each group began to make their way toward their respective arenas. Fortunately, Yun Che and Retsu found themselves in seats closest to their designated stages, while Cang Yue, much to her chagrin, had to traverse a greater distance to reach hers, prompting a playful pout from the princess as she had to descend toward her arena later.

"We've got the intel. Yun Che's up in arena 15, number 1505. That Fairy Unohana Retsu is holding down arena 12, number 1227, and Cang Yue's taking the stage in arena 7, rocking number 736. We've briefed their next few opponents. If they can't off Yun Che, then they'll make sure to knock him down hard enough that he won't last till the second round before he's half-dead... As for the ladies, we'll let them do as they please." Fen Juebi returned to his seat, his voice barely a whisper as he shared his strategy with Fen Juecheng.

"Hahaha… Yun Che… that treasure of yours won't save you or your ladies this time. I'm going to thoroughly humiliate you in this tournament." Fen Juecheng's gaze flicked toward the arenas where their opponents were stationed, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.

Yun Che remained seated, patiently awaiting his turn. His first match was scheduled for the fifth bout, so he and Retsu didn't immediately head to their respective arenas. Instead, he observed the ongoing battles from his kotatsu seat, taking in the strategies and techniques of the other contestants. Retsu, meanwhile, sipped her tea casually, engaged in a discussion with Mio about the perfect ingredients for chocolate chip cookies. These girls seemed to have little concern for the intensity of the tournament around them. Cang Yue, on the other hand, kept her eyes focused on the matches, joined by Kon and Nemu in her observations.

"So many skilled fighters out there... If there's another tournament next time, count me in," Kon's voice sounded from above, expressing his desire to join the fray.

"I'd like to participate too, Yuu-sama," Nemu chimed in, her own enthusiasm evident as she expressed her wish to take part in future tournaments as well.

"Nemu, sure, you can join," Yun Che replied, considering her request. "But as for you, Kon..."

"Omae... can't you build me a body? You built Nee-san a body of her own and even built an ultimate body for Libra. Why can't I have one?" Kon demanded, his tone hinting at a mix of frustration and longing.

"I could... but I don't want you ditching the bodies I make for you. Just stick to your lion form. It's more convenient," Yun Che reasoned, knowing Kon's tendency to abandon bodies for his light streak mode or to possess other forms. Plus, having him in a humanoid body might lead to trouble, given his penchant for mischief.

"Stingy..." Kon retorted, but Yun Che paid him no mind, focusing instead on observing the ongoing matches with a critical eye.

Amidst the diverse array of sect forces, wielding various weapons from swords to knives to axes, one disciple caught Yun Che's attention with a cheap imitation of Yoru, Mihawk's legendary sword. Watching the disciple struggle with the imitation, Yun Che couldn't help but wonder if he was trying to replicate Mihawk's power. However, he knew all too well that such power couldn't be imitated. Seeing that disciple being easily beaten made him shake his head.

"He's making a fool out of himself at this rate, but he does make an amusing cosplayer," Yun Che remarked with a wry smile, observing the scene with a mix of amusement and pity.

All sorts of weapons could be seen, and even more so, all sorts of profound attributes made the scene messy and confusing. The battles showcased a variety of heavy, light, and even gaudy profound skills, overwhelming onlookers with their diversity. It was amusing to see someone shout out the name of a spectacular technique, only to have it backfire on them in the end. These battles in the Spirit Profound Realm were considered displays of heroic prowess, with many participants eager to showcase their moves as if it were their final battle, only to end up defeated. Indeed, it was a clash of talented geniuses.

"Aniki, are you using that snake again for this tournament?" Yuanba curiously asked, breaking through the chaos of the arena with his question.

"Snake? You mean the giant snake?" Yun Che clarified, recalling Yuanba's reference to Zabimaru.

"Yes, if you could beat that beast tamer back then, these people should be easy for you," Yuanba remarked, his memory of Zabimaru's power still vivid. The mere thought of unleashing Bankai in the arena sparked curiosity about its potential consequences.

"Well, I have no plans of using that snake though. I have something else... It's a surprise," Yun Che grinned mischievously, hinting at a hidden trump card he intended to unveil. Instead of relying on Zabimaru this time, he had something different in mind—a pair of Zanpakuto.

"I see… Aniki, it's Onee-chan…" Yuanba's words caught the attention of everyone around them, drawing their gaze towards Xia Qingyue's group. As the matches progressed faster than expected, Xia Qingyue took center stage, instantly becoming the focus of the entire arena. Even disciples from other groups gathered to witness her match. In a world where disciples from the four great sects commanded instant attention, Xia Qingyue's presence was particularly captivating.

Standing at the center stage opposite a twenty-year-old disciple from the Illusory Sword Clan, Xia Qingyue's opponent likely cursed his luck at drawing such a formidable opponent from the Frozen Cloud Asgard. Despite the age difference—seventeen versus twenty—such distinctions held little weight in a world where cultivation levels determined true strength. With Xia Qingyue at the Eighth level of Spirit Profound Realm and her opponent merely at the Fourth level, the match seemed destined for a stark disparity.

However, the opponent refused to admit defeat, bowing respectfully and requesting guidance, driven by pride that wouldn't allow him to concede so easily. With determination blazing in his eyes, he unleashed his ultimate move. Yet, Xia Qingyue simply raised her hand, and in an instant, his limbs were ensnared in a frosty grip, frozen mid-execution of his technique. The arena fell silent as her mastery of the Frozen Cloud Arts was unveiled for the first time, casting an icy veil over her opponent.

"Whooo… she froze his ass." Yun Che commented out loud.

As the disciple submitted to defeat, Xia Qingyue released her wintry hold, the undeniable gap in their strengths evident to all. The battle had ended in a mere five seconds, leaving the defeated disciple to retreat from the arena, his pride wounded. Xia Qingyue's gaze briefly flickered towards Yun Che before she too departed, leaving him puzzled by the subtle exchange.

"She is impressive," Retsu remarked, admiration evident in her voice.

"Not bad," Mio added, fanning herself gracefully.

"She is calculative, Nee-sama," Nemu observed, her analytical nature shining through.

"As expected from the Frozen Cloud Asgard. Cultivating such talent is no small feat, considering their vast resources," Cang Yue commented.

"That babe is something. I'll give her that," Kon chimed in, lounging comfortably on Yun Che's shoulders, plush arms resting on his head. Surprisingly, Yun Che didn't seem bothered by the arrangement.

"You'll have to give more than that," Yun Che replied casually, taking a sip of Retsu's handmade tea.

"Onee-chan is strong though. Do you think you can beat her?" Yuanba inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"Well… I have plans," Yun Che grinned, his confidence unwavering.

At the sound of the referee's booming announcement, the attention of the spectators turned to Sword Discourse Arena Number 15.

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"Group 15, fifth match, Blue Wind Imperial Family's 'Yun Che' —— versus —— Southern Jade Cloud Faction's 'Fu Yanjie'!"

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Cang Yue's reaction was swift, her nerves tingling with anticipation as she realized that Yun Che's match marked the beginning of their team's journey in the tournament. Without wishing him luck, but rather informing him of his turn, she grabbed his hand firmly. "Yun Che, it's your turn."

"Aniki! Go beat up all your opponents and show those people who mock us who's boss!" Xia Yuanba exclaimed, his fists clenched in determination.

"Yuu-kun, don't go overboard," Retsu cheered, her encouragement gentle yet supportive.

"Danna-sama, beat the living hell out of them!" Mio grinned, her fans closing with a flourish as she pointed enthusiastically.

"Fight! Fight! Yuu-sama," Nemu declared stoically, her expression oddly serious as she waved what appeared to be makeshift pom-poms. Despite the unexpected sight, Yun Che couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm, finding her cheerleader act endearing even without the proper attire.

"So cute," Retsu and Mio chimed in unison, their hearts warmed by Nemu's unexpected display of support.

"I'll be back soon," Yun Che reassured them casually, giving Nemu's head a gentle pat before rising from his seat and making his way towards Sword Discourse Arena Number 15.

And just like that, arena 15 became the focal point of the entire venue, all eyes fixed on the upcoming match.

"Hurry, look! The first kid from the Blue Wind Imperial Family's up!" A disciple from the next group shouted, drawing the attention of the entire arena.

"Tsk tsk, that Fu Yanjie's truly lucky to be going against this guy in the first match. Why can't I be that fortunate?" A disciple from another group commented, the envy evident in his tone.

Ignoring the snickers and jests aimed at him, Yun Che strode confidently towards the arena, a cheeky smile playing on his lips. Using his keen observation skills enhanced by his Haki, he quickly assessed his opponent's level with a simple system scan.

Yun Che sized up his opponent, Fu Yanjie, who stood across the arena clad in a flowing blue robe and black lining, a menacing giant machete gripped tightly in his hand. With his bald head and a ponytail trailing behind him, Fu Yanjie exuded an aura of intimidation, his posture meant to instill fear in his adversary.

=============

[Fu Yanjie]

[Age: 21]

[Level: 52 – Second Level of Spirit Profound Realm]

[Description: Broad-shouldered and solidly built, Fu Yanjie cuts an imposing figure. A loyal member of the Southern Jade Cloud Faction.]

[PS: He's arrogant. Just beat his ass.]

=============

Second Level of Spirit Profound Realm. Not much of a challenge.

"Just beat his ass, huh?" Yun Che mused by the System's order.

But as he prepared to face Fu Yanjie, a flicker of recognition passed through Yun Che's mind at the mention of the name, and he read the system's extra information. "Fu Yanjie… Ahh, he's been hired to make trouble for me. Knowing Feng Juecheng's temperament, letting him go the other day will only lead to trouble." Yun Che mused internally, his demeanor calm and collected as he stepped onto the stage.

However, instead of cheers, the sound of laughter echoed throughout the arena, the mocking jeers of the surrounding disciples piercing the air. Watching from her zone, Little Fairy gritted her teeth in frustration, her eyes flashing with determination. She knew her rascal was strong, but witnessing him being ridiculed ignited a fire within her.

" I do hope you know what you're doing. Just don't go overboard, you rascal," she whispered internally, her voice laced with concern and unwavering support for Yun Che's upcoming match.

Chu Yueli felt odd in seeing his detected cultivation but deep down, something wrong as this man that was fighting in arena 15 was the one unleashing the terrible pressure back that suppressed even her. If he's the one from back then, laughing at him will be a grave mistake.

Moreover, she couldn't shake the feeling of she somehow knew him.

Seeing Fu Yanjie sneering at him didn't make him back down at all, he simply put up a bored expression and put his hands in his coat's pocket.

"Both opponents ready?" The referee's voice rang out, but Fu Yanjie's smirk spoke volumes. He remembered the hefty pay he'd been promised to pummel Yun Che into submission. "Kid, don't worry. This father will let you face defeat in the most honorable way," he boasted, his tone dripping with arrogance.

Yun Che, however, seemed utterly unimpressed. With a bored expression, he taunted, "Yeah… yeah… I don't get all day so hurry up and get it over with," his fingers seemingly itching for action.

"You'll regret this!" Fu Yanjie declared, his profound aura swelling with confidence.

"Match, start!!!" The referee's command marked the beginning of the confrontation.

As the referee's voice faded, Fu Yanjie swung his enormous blade with ferocious intensity, the wind howling around him. With a sneer, he aimed directly for Yun Che's shoulder, confident of a swift victory. "Yun Che, consider it your misfortune to have met me. Obediently lay flat onto the ground for me!"

BOOM!!!

The blade struck Yun Che's shoulder with immense force, engulfing him in a cloud of smoke. The crowd, expecting an easy victory for Fu Yanjie, began to sneer and mock. They believed Yun Che, with his seemingly low cultivation, was destined for defeat.

"Oi... oi Is it over already? I didn't even get to blink."

"How weak… The Blue Wind Imperial was only this level…" one spectator jeered.

"I am not willing to see that beauty and the princess being beaten up. I hope their opponents have mercy on them," another chimed in sarcastically.

"Look, big bro! He didn't even attempt to dodge it... or he can't dodge it. Hahahahaha," Fen Juebi laughed loudly, joining in the mockery.

"Fu Yanjie had it easy… hahahah… ha?" But as the smoke cleared, the arena fell silent in disbelief. Fu Yanjie's sword had landed squarely on Yun Che's shoulder, yet there was no blood, no scream of pain. Yun Che stood there, his hands still in his coat pockets, his expression utterly bored.

The spectators were stunned, their laughter abruptly cut short as they realized Yun Che's calm demeanor amidst the chaos.

The arena fell into an eerie silence as Yun Che's flock began to smirk triumphantly. Cang Wanhe and Xue Ling bore an expression of shock. Not only them, the rest of the arena as well. It was a moment of reckoning—who was the weakling now?

Only those who knew the extend of his strength were relaxed.

Though Fu Yanjie stood at the same height as Yun Che, his bulky frame exuded an intimidating presence. His recent sword strike had been executed with full force, aimed squarely at severing Yun Che's arm. Yet, to everyone's shock, Yun Che remained unscathed. His clothes weren't even torn.

"You…" Fu Yanjie's voice trembled with disbelief, his expression a mix of shock and confusion. His blade had failed to make even a scratch on Yun Che. The audience, who had previously laughed at Yun Che's misfortune, now watched in stunned silence as reality sunk in.

"Oi…. what the big idea?" Yun Che let out a sigh, his demeanor calm and collected as he effortlessly lifted Fu Yanjie's heavy blade with his bare hands, releasing it to his side with a resounding thud that sent shockwaves rippling through the arena.

"Hope their payment was worth it," Yun Che remarked, his gaze pointedly directed at Fen Juecheng and his brother, who sat gaping in astonishment. Whether they understood the modern gesture or not was irrelevant—the message was clear. The rest of the arena mirrored their shock, the mocking laughter replaced by gaping mouths and wide-eyed stares.

"Well, smile for the camera." With a casual air, Yun Che raised his hand and delivered a precise karate chop to Fu Yanjie's neck. The impact was swift and devastating, causing Fu Yanjie to lose consciousness instantly as he crumpled to the floor, his sword slipping from his grasp.

Even with his immense size and muscular physique, Fu Yanjie was no match for Yun Che's precise strike. With a nonchalant pat on Fu Yanjie's shoulder, Yun Che turned on his heel, whistling as he made his exit from the arena, leaving behind a stunned and speechless audience in his wake.

As Yun Che walked down from Arena 15, a tune hummed between his lips, his demeanor relaxed despite the tension lingering in the air. Meanwhile, Fu Yanjie lay sprawled on the ground, his face pressed into the arena floor, unmoving. The surrounding disciples exchanged bewildered glances, struggling to comprehend what they had just witnessed.

The referee, finally finding his voice, announced the outcome with a mix of astonishment and resignation. "Fu Yanjie down for ten breaths of time! Blue Wind Imperial Family's Yun Che wins!"

Yun Che strolled leisurely back to his seating zone, whistling a tune under his breath. His flock greeted him with enthusiastic cheers, but it wasn't until some time had passed that his two clan members ventured up to the arena to drag Fu Yanjie away, their faces flushed with embarrassment.

The spectators, who had anticipated a one-sided spectacle, found themselves utterly flabbergasted. It was a show indeed, but not the one they had expected—it was Yun Che's dazzling victory.

Cang Yue wore a smug smirk akin to a Cheshire cat as she watched Yun Che return victorious. Her pride in her companion swelled with each step he took.

As Yun Che made his way back, he caught sight of Fen Juecheng's gaze fixed upon him. With a mischievous grin, Yun Che raised a middle finger in the air, taunting the man who had orchestrated Fu Yanjie's failed attempt to humiliate him. Fen Juecheng's expression darkened with seething rage, his eyes blazing with murderous intent. Yet, Yun Che merely tucked his hands back into his coat pockets, unfazed by the looming threat.

In that moment, Yun Che knew one thing for certain—Fen Juecheng still had his uses, but he was no match for the cunning and resilience of the Blue Wind Imperial Family's most audacious member.

The rest of the arena remained in a state of disbelief, unable to reconcile the reality before them. Fu Yanjie, a representative of their sect, had been defeated by a True Profound Realm warrior—a fact that some struggled to accept. The humiliation of their sect's defeat hung heavy in the air, casting a pall over the once lively atmosphere.

"Big bro…" Fen Juebi's voice cut through the tension, a note of concern laced within it.

Fen Juecheng's jaw clenched tightly, his fury palpable as he struggled to contain his rage. "I thought he doesn't have any treasures. No matter. Give the order to cripple him and don't underestimate him," he seethed, his voice dripping with venomous intent.

Before any further thoughts could be exchanged, another announcement reverberated throughout the arena, drawing attention away from the brewing storm of vengeance.

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"Blue Wind Imperial Family - Unohana Retsu ----------versus----------- South Mountain Palace, Xing Fu."

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

As Yun Che arrived, his Haki picked up Retsu's name being called, and Retsu seemed to have heard it as well. She gently placed her tea down, stood up, and patted her sleeves in preparation.

"Ara… it's my turn," Retsu announced with a graceful stretch, leaving her parasol behind for the moment.

"Good work," she whispered, tiptoeing to plant a kiss on Yun Che's left cheek through her veil before proceeding to her designated arena.

Instantly, the arena fell silent once more, with Arena 12 once again becoming the center of attention. Yun Che's earlier performance had left a lasting impact, leaving some in disbelief, others in denial, and a few begrudgingly accepting the truth.

Retsu made her way to the arena, clad in her kimono and without her parasol. Her braids tied neatly to the front, she left behind an air of mystique as she walked, drawing the attention of every male around her. Veiled like Xia Qingyue, her true appearance remained a mystery, but the intensity of her gaze alone was enough to captivate onlookers.

On stage, Xing Fu from the South Mountain Palace awaited her arrival. Having witnessed Yun Che's formidable display, he dared not underestimate this veiled fairy. Despite initial assumptions of an easy opponent, rumors swirled of rewards for those who could cripple the Blue Wind Imperial Family, spurring him to approach the match cautiously. With his cultivation at the Third Level of Spirit Profound Realm, he deemed it more than sufficient to secure victory. But as Retsu stood before him, serene and weaponless, he couldn't shake off a creeping sense of unease.

"Both opponents ready?" the referee's voice broke the tension, and while Retsu remained composed, Xing Fu felt a knot of nervousness forming in his stomach. This woman exuded an aura of quiet strength that was impossible to ignore, and he knew better than to underestimate her.

"MATCH START!!!!" The referee's voice reverberated through the arena, signaling the commencement of the match. Anticipation hung thick in the air as the audience waited for Xing Fu to make his move against Retsu.

But to everyone's surprise, Xing Fu remained rooted to the spot, his hesitation palpable. Meanwhile, Retsu approached him with serene composure, her movements unhurried and deliberate. Some speculated whether she was deliberately goading him, while others wondered if she was testing his resolve.

Without warning, Xing Fu unleashed his profound art, closing the distance between them in a swift maneuver. His sword swung perilously close to Retsu, but she effortlessly sidestepped the attack with fluid grace, maintaining her leisurely pace.

With precision that seemed almost too deliberate, Retsu raised her right hand and delivered a soft yet lightning-fast karate chop to Xing Fu's neck. Time seemed to slow as Xing Fu's eyes widened in realization, he didn't even realize the approaching blow. But before he could react, darkness enveloped his vision, and he crumpled to the ground, unconscious, his spear slipping from his grasp.

Retsu turned away from her fallen opponent, her movements graceful and dignified. With a subtle nod of respect, she acknowledged Xing Fu's defeat before retracing her steps back to her starting position.

The arena fell silent once more, the spectators awestruck by the swift and efficient manner in which Retsu had dispatched her opponent. There were no flashy techniques or displays of power, just a simple dodge and a precise strike—a testament to her mastery of combat.

As Retsu descended the stairs, the eyes of the disciples followed her every move, filled with a newfound respect and admiration. She had defeated her opponent with elegance and efficiency, leaving no doubt as to her prowess.

"W..winner… Blue Wind Imperial Family, Unohana Retsu," the referee stuttered, his voice barely audible amidst the hushed murmurs of the crowd.

Retsu continued her descent, her aura radiating quiet confidence as she returned to her companions, her victory a testament to her skill and poise.

"What… what is going on? First, a second level. Now, a third level? Who are these people?!?" A bewildered spectator's voice pierced through the murmurs of confusion rippling through the audience.

"What's going on? Xing Fu was supposed to be at the Third level of Spirit Profound Realm, and he lost?" Another voice chimed in, echoing the sentiments of many others in the crowd.

The arena was abuzz with speculation and disbelief, with spectators grappling to make sense of the unprecedented turn of events. Some questioned the authenticity of the combatants' levels, while others pondered whether there was more to their victories than met the eye.

Retsu paid little heed to the surrounding chatter, her satisfaction evident in the subtle curve of her lips. To her, the reactions of the crowd were validation enough of her skill and strength. With a sense of quiet pride, she made her way back to her companions, her graceful stride commanding attention amidst the confusion.

However, her attention was soon drawn to Cang Yue and Yun Che, who were nearby the seventh arena. Cang Yue's nervousness was palpable, and Retsu wasted no time in joining them, offering her support. "Little Yue, is your turn up yet?"

"Not yet… but it's almost my turn as arena 7 is proceeding faster," Cang Yue explained, her voice tinged with anxiety.

"Good work, Retsu," Yun Che praised, his gesture drawing envious glances from onlookers. Retsu smiled beneath her veil, a silent expression of gratitude as she leaned closer to him and held his arm, feeling a surge of contentment at his touch. She cast a meaningful glance towards Xia Qingyue, a subtle challenge in her gaze. As for Xia Qingyue herself, her expression remains indifferent, and her aura was still calm but her sect members failed to realize that she was clenching her fist for a moment.

Meanwhile, Ling Yun, who had been observing Retsu, seethed with anger at the sight of her closeness with Yun Che. Determination flashed in his eyes as he vowed to win her affections, regardless of the obstacles in his path.

"Ufufufufu…" Retsu's soft chuckle cut through the tension, her focus shifting back to the unfolding matches with a sense of anticipation.

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"Blue Wind Imperial Family - Cang Yue ------------Versus---------------- Northern Region Clan, Sa Tan."

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

All eyes converged on arena seven, where Cang Yue was poised to make her debut in the tournament. A nervous energy radiated from her, evident in the slight tremor of her hands as she ascended the stage. On the opposite side stood her opponent, a burly disciple from the Northern Region, his expression adorned with a cocky grin.

There was something about his appearance that unsettled Cang Yue. He loomed over her, a towering figure with a muscular, hairy physique that exuded an aura of intimidation. His black, curly Afro, accompanied by a meticulously trimmed mustache and sideburns, added to his imposing presence. The distinct cleft in his chin only emphasized his rugged masculinity.

Clad in the robes of his Northern Region Clan, he stood with an air of confidence, a white cape billowing behind him. His hairy chest and arms were on full display, a testament to his physical prowess and dominance.

As Cang Yue sized up her opponent, a sense of unease settled in her stomach. Despite her apprehension, she squared her shoulders and met his gaze with determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead in the arena.

As Cang Yue entered the stage, her unusual choice of carrying three swords caught the attention of the spectators, sparking speculation among the onlookers.

"Is she carrying three swords? Why would she do that? Most cultivators only need one or two," remarked a nearby disciple, voicing the confusion shared by many.

"She's probably showing off, carrying three swords just in case she can't use or loses one," another speculated, nodding knowingly as if they had unraveled a secret.

Meanwhile, Cang Yue's opponent, with his peculiar afro hairstyle and eccentric mustache, stood opposite her, exuding an air of confidence despite his unorthodox appearance.

"Break a leg, Little Yue!" Yun Che's well-intentioned encouragement inadvertently caused a stir among the surrounding disciples, who interpreted the phrase literally and reacted with a mixture of shock and fear.

They never heard of English Idioms before.

"What?" Cang Yue's surprise mirrored that of the crowd. The idea of deliberately causing harm to her opponent went against her compassionate nature, and she recoiled at the thought.

"Yuu-kun meant good luck," Retsu interjected, providing clarification and dispelling the confusion among the spectators. However, her explanation only seemed to add to the perplexity, leaving the crowd scratching their heads in bewilderment.

As Cang Yue readied herself to face her opponent, a surge of determination coursed through her veins. While she might not be well-versed in the intricacies of tournament etiquette, she was resolved to give her all and uphold the honor of the Blue Wind Imperial Family.

"Sa Tan? That's a peculiar name," Yun Che remarked, a sense of familiarity tugging at his memory.

As Sa Tan unleashed his battle cry, accompanied by an exaggerated pose, Cang Yue couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in confusion. His antics were indeed peculiar, drawing puzzled looks from both her and the surrounding disciples.

"The Sa Tan battle cry!" one of his comrades exclaimed, confirming Yun Che's suspicions.

With a resigned sigh, Yun Che slapped his forehead, recognizing the antics of the familiar disciple. Despite the bizarre display, he couldn't help but feel a sense of reassurance. If this was the version of Sa Tan he remembered in his universe, then victory was practically assured.

As Sa Tan flaunted his Fourth Level Spirit Profound Realm, he addressed Cang Yue with an air of arrogance. "*Chuckle… So, you're my opponent. Despite your beauty, consider yourself lucky, for I, Sa Tan, shall have the honor of defeating you, Princess Cang Yue."

Cang Yue's expression remained composed as she corrected him, "Please, I am merely a cultivator on this stage. Just Cang Yue." Despite her royal lineage, she refused to be defined solely by her title, especially if it implied weakness.

"Princess or not, I will not show you any mercy," Sa Tan declared, offering her a mocking challenge. "Since your cultivation is inferior to mine, I'll even grant you a handicap. Come at me with all you've got!"

As the tension mounted in the arena, Cang Yue steadied herself, ready to face Sa Tan's arrogance head-on. With a determined glint in her eyes, she prepared to prove herself on the grand stage, regardless of her opponent's bravado.

"He gave Princess Cang Yue a shot. He's giving face to the princess," his comrades cheered, acting as his enthusiastic supporters. "Good luck, Princess Cang Yue! There's no way the princess could even budge him. His muscles are like iron, even seasoned cultivators struggle against him. His first opponent conceded after just ten breaths of time."

Cang Yue couldn't help but sweatdrop as she listened to their commentary. She wasn't sure how to gauge her strength, especially after Yuyun had boosted her to Peak Earth Profound Realm using the moon energy she recently gathered. Despite attempting to lower her strength to Peak True Profound Realm, she worried she might accidentally overdo it. "Is he serious? Ugh... Now I feel bad. I should just give him a light tap. Just... a light punch."

With determination, Cang Yue assumed her stance, her fist drawn back. "Just a light tap," she reminded herself as she prepared to strike.

Punch!

Her seemingly gentle punch connected with Sa Tan's face, and she watched in surprise as his features contorted comically, as though he had been struck with her full force. Momentum carried him forward, and he was sent flying upside down, crashing into the barrier in front of her with such force that it began to shake. Sa Tan's expression was one of utter disbelief as he lay sprawled on the stage, face-first.

"Araaa..." Retsu couldn't help but sweatdrop, surprised by the unexpected strength behind Cang Yue's punch.

"Ugh... it was supposed to be a light tap," Cang Yue muttered, realizing she may have used more strength than intended.

"Haaa... Little Yue, you weren't supposed to hit that hard," Yun Che sighed, shaking his head in disbelief.

"Winner – Blue Wind Imperial Family – Cang Yue." The referee's announcement echoed through the arena, marking Cang Yue's unexpected victory.

"Monsters," was the unanimous reaction that echoed through the arena after witnessing the remarkable display of prowess from the members of the Blue Wind Imperial Family. Spectators couldn't believe their eyes as Peak True Profound Realms triumphed over opponents of the second, third, and now fourth levels of the Spirit Profound Realm. Even Fen Juecheng, renowned for his arrogance, found himself doubting reality. It was only the first match of the tournament, and already the Blue Wind Imperial Family, deemed the weakest, had surpassed all expectations. Some spectators even pinched themselves, half-expecting to wake up from what seemed like a surreal dream. Yun Che couldn't help but wonder about the man who had boasted he could eat excrement in public if all members of the Imperial Family won their first round. What became of him now?

As Sa Tan slowly regained consciousness, he couldn't resist shouting, "Huargghhh… It was a good punch."

"Ehhhhh?" Cang Yue looked bewildered, realizing she might not have punched as lightly as she had intended.

"So, he was giving face to the Princess? What an admirable man. She had it easy," his comrades cheered.

"I'm pretty sure it wasn't that simple. He was just saving face," Yun Che remarked, earning a nod of agreement from Retsu.

Sa Tan bowed his head gracefully before stepping off the stage and returning to his seating zone, where he was showered with praise for conceding after Cang Yue's punch landed. However, once he reached the privacy of a secluded room and closed the door behind him, he collapsed to the ground, clutching his bruised face. "Ouch…ouch …ouch… Weak my ass! The princess was a monster. They said she was meek and weak for a True Profound Realm. It was a big fat lie!"

Cang Yue joined Yun Che and Retsu, waiting patiently as they observed the ongoing matches. It seemed her first opponent, Sa Tan, had made it appear as though he let her win, but they all knew better. Yun Che couldn't help but sigh at the existence of such individuals in the world. This Sa Tan character was just all talk, and Yun Che wasn't inclined to pay him much mind.

The first round of group stage matches blazed forward like an unstoppable inferno. True to Cang Yue's earlier assessment, the pace was relentless. In just three short hours, each Sword Discourse Arena had already seen over thirty matches. Xia Yuanba found himself advancing easily as opponents either conceded or proved no match for his superior cultivation. Some attempted to put up a fight, but Yuanba's formidable resilience quickly wore them down, leading to early surrenders.

Matches varied in duration, with some ending swiftly while others dragged on as contestants refused to yield. However, when faced with opponents from the Four Major Sects, most challengers chose to forfeit immediately. High-level figures like Ling Yun, Xiao Kuanglei, Yan Jin, and Shui Wushuang were akin to insurmountable bosses. Merely encountering them was enough to compel opponents to throw in the towel, preferring to conserve their strength for future battles.

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

"Group Fifteen's thirty-fifth match: Blue Wind Imperial Family's Yun Che —— versus —— Southern Jade Cloud Faction's Fu Yinjie!"

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

With a resigned expression, Yun Che made his way to the stage of Arena 15, flanked by Retsu and Cang Yue observing from below. As he stepped into the arena, he found himself facing Fu Yanjie, the twin brother of his previous opponent. The resemblance was uncanny, from the wide shoulders to the robust frame, though this time Fu Yanjie wielded a menacing machete instead of a sword.

"This daddy is going to defeat you. How dare you defeat my twin brother!!! I will destroy you," Fu Yanjie declared with bravado, his words echoing through the arena. Yun Che, unfazed by the empty threats, simply sighed in response.

"Match start!"

With the referee's command, Fu Yanjie wasted no time, charging at Yun Che with reckless abandon, his machete gleaming in the arena lights. But Yun Che remained calm, his expression one of mild annoyance at the noise surrounding him.

"I am going to destroy you!!!" Fu Yinjie's roar echoed through the arena, his machete gleaming in the light as he charged forward with relentless determination. The crowd held its breath, anticipating a clash of titans as the two opponents converged.

"First predict his move." Inside his mind, Fu Yinjie's thoughts raced, calculating every move, every step of his opponent. He was determined not to repeat the mistakes of his twin brother. This time, he would close the distance and deliver a decisive blow that would secure his victory.

Then, Fu Yinjie saw a lot of mirages came from Yun Che. These are the predictions in his mind. Locking on one of the mirages, he grins.

"I got it." With a triumphant grin, Fu Yinjie launched himself forward, ready to unleash his devastating strike. But before he could even blink, something slammed into him with incredible force.

POW!!

The sound reverberated through the arena as Fu Yinjie's body was sent hurtling towards the barrier, his machete shattering upon impact. He crashed to the ground, defeated in an instant by a single, effortless kick from his opponent.

The audience erupted into stunned silence, their cheers replaced by gasps of disbelief. Yun Che stood nonchalantly amidst the chaos, his actions swift and decisive. With a casual flick of his leg, he had effortlessly dispatched his opponent, leaving Fu Yinjie sprawled on the ground in defeat.

"Man… there's no end to dealing with punks like this," Yun Che muttered with a bored expression, his hand absently rubbing the back of his head as he turned away from the defeated opponent.

"Winner – Blue Wind Imperial Family – Yun Che," the referee announced, his voice tinged with astonishment at the brevity of the match.

"A..another.. instant win.." murmurs rippled through the crowd as disbelief swept over them. Those who had ridiculed, scorned, and jeered at Yun Che now stood in stunned silence, their expressions a mixture of shock and awe. Even Fen Juebi and Fen Juecheng, who had been observing from the sidelines, couldn't hide their surprise. It was clear that there was no trickery or external aid involved – Yun Che's victory was a testament to his raw strength and skill alone.

"That's two wins for me," Yun Che declared, flashing a peace sign towards Retsu and Cang Yue, who watched from the sidelines with admiration despite the swift victory.

The arena buzzed with speculation as Yun Che effortlessly dispatched his opponent with a single kick. Many attributed Fu Yanjie's defeat to nothing more than bad luck – a fleeting moment of misfortune that cost him the match. After all, he had powered up to his maximum, hoping to overwhelm Yun Che with brute force, only to be met with swift and decisive retaliation.

"A single kick shatters his opponent's attack and sends him across the arena," murmurs echoed throughout the crowd, disbelief coloring every whispered word.

"Is… Is he really at the True Profound Realm?" the question echoed repeatedly, lingering in the minds of spectators and disciples alike.

"Perhaps there was a problem with the Profound Assessing Stone," suggested one of the referees, though they were quick to dismiss the notion, knowing full well that the stones were thoroughly tested and unlikely to be defective.

Unbeknownst to the crowd, Yun Che smirked inwardly at the speculation. He had deliberately suppressed his true level, along with Retsu, using the power of the System. Even Cang Yue, who had recently broken through to the Peak of Earth Profound Realm, wore a small necklace – a creation of Yun Che's – disguised as a choker in her Narukami Law outfit. This necklace served to suppress her true level appearance, ensuring that she appeared to be at the True Profound Realm. Yuyun, with her mastery over Moon Energy, carefully controlled the output of the necklace, preventing Cang Yue from overexerting herself while maintaining the facade of a True Profound cultivator.

Each member of the Blue Wind Imperial Family possessed their own unique abilities, allowing them to deceive their opponents and unleash their true strength when necessary.

Yun Che's mastery of the Great Way of the Buddha had elevated his hand-to-hand combat abilities to an Overlord level, a feat that astonished even himself. But never one to settle, he embarked on an audacious experiment, channeling his Haki energy into his legs. The outcome was nothing short of remarkable. With a mere flicker of his newfound power, he dispatched opponents with ease, all without resorting to his formidable Heretic God Arts.

Meanwhile, Retsu relied on her raw, unbridled strength, a force to be reckoned with on its own. Honed through rigorous training sessions with Yachiru, she had incorporated her previous world's fighting techniques into her arsenal, making her a formidable adversary in any arena. Yet despite possessing the ability to utilize Absolute Suppression to overwhelm her foes, she preferred the thrill of engaging in dynamic combat.

Yun Che's attention shifted to Fen Juecheng, who seemed determined to orchestrate his downfall through the manipulation of his contacts. However, Yun Che welcomed the challenge, viewing it as an opportunity to test his mettle against formidable adversaries. He silently hoped Fen Juecheng would throw everything he had at him, allowing him and his companions to demonstrate their prowess before facing him head-on.

"Father, did you see that?" Ling Yun shifted his gaze to his father, who stood beside him with a stoic expression.

"Mmm," Ling Yuefeng nodded slightly. "He's indeed astounding. He has even exceeded my expectations."

"Looks like the defeat of Ling Jie back in the palace was not a fluke. I always thought he had the strength of a Spirit Profound Realm back then, as he easily defeated him without batting an eye. Ling Jie said his strength was ungaugable, to the point of surprising me when he beat him in arm wrestling. Is this his real strength, or is he hiding something else?" Ling Yun's brow furrowed with curiosity.

"I have the same thoughts as well. I'm very curious," Ling Yun continued, his voice tinged with intrigue. "He didn't enter or represent any sects. He only came with Princess Cang Yue to the Blue Wind Profound Palace as a guest. Then, he had no advantages in resources or profound arts, yet he's able to wield his profound energy to display power that surpasses his level of profound strength… Just how does he do it? Unless he's truly talented and gifted to this extent?"

Before Ling Yuefeng could respond, another announcement captured their attention, diverting their focus, especially Ling Yun's, who awaited the news with eager anticipation.

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

"Blue Wind Imperial Palace – Unohana Retsu ---------versus---------- South Mountain Palace, Li Xing"

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

The crowd shifted their focus from speculation to intense concentration as another match unfolded before them. It was another coincidence that Retsu would face an opponent from the same palace. Yun Che's victory ignited a winning streak for the Blue Wind Imperial Palace, adding to the excitement of the tournament.

As Yun Che gave her a thumbs up, Retsu turned and gracefully walked toward the stage. The other participants parted to make way for her, a silent acknowledgment of her presence. With poise and confidence, she stepped onto the stage, her opponent, a fourth Spirit Profound Realm male disciple wielding a spear, already waiting.

"Fairy, I hope you will not hold it against me. My fellow disciple underestimated you, but I will not make the same mistake," he declared, pointing three fingers at her. "I will use three moves to defeat you!"

Retsu merely tilted her head, a faint smile playing beneath her veil. "Then, I will use three as well," she replied calmly, though her opponent's arrogance didn't go unnoticed.

"You overestimate yourself!" Li Xing shouted from the sidelines, but Retsu remained unfazed, her serene demeanor belying the intensity of the upcoming battle.

MATCH BEGIN!!

"Please don't hold it against me," Li Xing pleaded before launching himself toward Retsu with lightning speed, his spear aimed directly at her. He planned to strike swiftly, leaving her no chance to counter.

"Ichi (One)," Retsu murmured softly, her movements fluid as she effortlessly dodged the spear's thrust by swaying to the left. It was a maneuver that required minimal effort but maximum precision, aided by her mastery of instinct.

"Ni (Two)," Retsu's hand darted toward Li Xing's face with startling speed, catching him off guard as it connected with his right cheek.

"San (Three)," her hand clenched into a fist, delivering a powerful blow that sent Li Xing hurtling toward the nearby barrier. His spear fell to the ground as he collapsed, motionless.

With a graceful adjustment of her posture, Retsu made her way back to the arena stairs, her victory achieved in a mere three seconds. The referee, startled by the swift conclusion, quickly announced, "Winner.. Blue Wind Imperial Family – Unohana Retsu."

The crowd erupted into a chorus of awe and amazement, marveling at Retsu's incredible skill and efficiency.

"Five wins, the Blue Wind Imperial Family scored five victories!!" A disciple shouted, his voice ringing out amidst the stunned crowd.

"They… they were supposed to be eliminated in the first round. If this continues, they might even break into the top one hundred," remarked another spectator, the tone of scorn replaced by admiration as the Imperial Family's streak continued.

"But, she said she'll use three moves," Cang Yue asked Yun Che beside her, still processing the lightning-fast victory.

"She did. First, she dodged, then she prepared, and lastly, she executed. Three moves," Yun Che explained with a grin, marveling at Retsu's efficiency.

"…" Cang Yue fell silent, realizing that the three moves were not what she had expected.

"Yatta! Two wins for me as well, Yuu-kun," Retsu exclaimed happily, her voice filled with excitement.

"That's my Retsu," Yun Che replied, patting her head affectionately, eliciting jealous stares from those around him. It seemed that everyone wanted to be the one to pat her head after each victory.

Observing from afar, Ling Yun clenched his fist in frustration. Seeing Yun Che patting Retsu's head as if she were his lover stirred a surge of jealousy within him. Seeing him able to touch the goddess's silky hair was enough to spite him.

-------

"Blue Wind Imperial Family Cang Yue -----versus----"

-------

The arena gradually shifted from a state of contempt to one of fervent cheers. With each successive match, the Blue Wind Imperial Family garnered more and more support, and it wasn't even Yun Che's third match yet. Now, the entire arena eagerly anticipated any appearance by the Imperial Family, their enthusiasm palpable in the air.

Meanwhile, Mio and Nemu, watching the tournament from their vantage point, exchanged triumphant smirks. Their plan had unfolded perfectly, garnering attention and admiration from the crowd. While some accused them of bullying, the growing cheers of admiration drowned out any dissenting voices.

Cang Yue stepped onto the stage, her demeanor exuding a newfound confidence, devoid of the nervousness that had plagued her earlier. She took a deep breath, clearing her mind and focusing on the task at hand. Her opponent stood before her, drawing his sword with determination. Gripping the hilt of Wadou Ichimonji and its scabbard, she prepared herself for the impending clash.

Silence descended upon the arena as anticipation hung in the air. Last time, Cang Yue had defeated the burly Sa Tan with a single punch. Now, facing an opponent armed with a sword, she braced herself for a different kind of battle.

"Little Yue… I am curious," a voice suddenly echoed in her mind.

"Yuyun!? Not now, I'm in the middle of a match!" Cang Yue responded, caught off guard by the unexpected intrusion.

"How did you use the 'Iai' attack? I am most curious. Show me…" Yuyun's voice persisted, drawing Cang Yue's attention away from the match unfolding before her.

Lost in her inner thoughts, Cang Yue's eyes took on a vacant expression, as if her body was moving of its own accord, unaware that the match had already begun.

MATCH BEGIN!!

As the announcer signaled the start of the match, Cang Yue's opponent wasted no time in launching his ultimate attack. "Tri Stab Attack!!!" he declared, his determination evident in his swift movements.

But Cang Yue remained calm, her focus unwavering. With a murmured invocation of "Ittoryu Iai" (One Sword Style Resheath), she drew her sword ever so slightly from its sheath as her opponent closed in. His attack poised to strike, he suddenly froze, a palpable sense of danger emanating from Cang Yue's stance.

"Totsugeki" (Onslaught) she whispered, barely audible yet charged with lethal intent. Though the arena remained silent, the faint sounds of blades seemed to fill the air, invisible yet menacing.

Caught off guard by the overwhelming pressure, her opponent staggered, momentarily paralyzed by the intensity of her aura. Gathering his resolve, he attempted to steel himself, only for Cang Yue to smoothly resheath her sword, a seemingly innocuous motion.

But as the blade returned to its scabbard with a sharp "Cling," chaos erupted. The disciple's sword fell to the arena floor, his eyes widening in disbelief. Before he could comprehend what had happened, a series of ripping sounds echoed through the air.

His clothes shredded apart as if torn by an invisible force, leaving him exposed and vulnerable. Horror flashed across his face as he stumbled backward, fear gripping his heart. If Cang Yue had intended to end his life, there would be nothing left of him but scattered remains across the arena floor.

As the disciple fell to his knees in surrender, Cang Yue snapped out of her daze, her eyes widening with realization. She glanced at her opponent, expecting an imminent attack, but instead, he uttered two words that left her utterly bewildered: "I concede! I concede!"

Her confusion deepened as he prostrated himself before her, pleading for mercy with trembling words. "Magnanimous Princess, please don't sentence me to death."

Cang Yue's heart raced with panic. "I… what? No… no… I didn't realize what I was doing… I am sorry…" she stammered, her clumsy demeanor returning as she grasped the gravity of the situation. It was then that she understood: Yuyun had tricked her. By entering her mind's world and leaving her body on autopilot mode, every move she conceived in her thoughts became reality.

And her unwitting actions had left her opponent traumatized, his fear palpable as he cowered before her.

The referee, unable to comprehend the surreal scene unfolding before him, swiftly declared Cang Yue the winner as her opponent conceded defeat. "Winner - Blue Wind Imperial Family – Cang Yue," he announced, his voice tinged with disbelief.

The arena fell silent once more, a tense atmosphere hanging in the air. Cang Yue, still clutching the hilt of her sword, felt the weight of unease settle upon her as she made a hasty exit from the arena, her movements awkward and uncertain. People exchanged wary glances, unsure of what to make of the inexplicable display of power they had just witnessed.

"Sister Yue is indeed strong. How did she do that…?" Chu Yueli commented, her gaze fixed on the arena where Cang Yue had just delivered a bewildering victory. Xia Qingyue, standing beside her, shared the same sentiment, her eyes reflecting a mixture of astonishment and unease. They couldn't fathom how the princess had reduced her opponent to such a state, especially since they hadn't even seen her draw her blade.

Xia Qingyue couldn't shake off a sense of unease as she watched the matches unfold. It seemed that the team her husband had assembled was composed of formidable individuals, but the presence of four mysterious women among them left her feeling unsettled.

Meanwhile, Little Fairy remained speechless, having witnessed the entire spectacle unfold through her advanced Kenbunshoku No Haki. She had observed Cang Yue's lightning-fast movements with astonishment, each slash of her blade executed with unparalleled precision and speed. It was as if time itself had slowed down to accommodate her actions. The thought that her sworn sister possessed such lethal prowess left her bewildered. "Little Yue… Did rascal teach you all of this?" she wondered aloud, her mind grappling with the implications of Cang Yue's abilities.

Xue Ling, a seasoned swordswoman in her own right, widened her eyes in disbelief. Despite her expertise, she couldn't discern Cang Yue's blade movements, much like when she had faced off against Cang Lin. "She didn't even draw her blade…" she exclaimed, her astonishment echoing the sentiments of the other spectators.

In the arena, murmurs of awe rippled through the crowd as they grappled with the realization of Cang Yue's true power. "The princess is this powerful?" one spectator marveled, his voice tinged with disbelief. The revelation had left them all stunned, their perceptions of the Blue Wind Imperial Family forever altered by the display of unparalleled skill and strength.

"My… Little Yue almost learned Senka. Not as powerful as our Senka but how did she do it?" Retsu's eyes widened as she recalled a technique similar to Shinigami Advanced Techniques – Senka (Flash Blossom), which she had witnessed Cang Yue execute back in the New Moon Profound Palace. However, for Cang Yue to manage at least four slashes without even harming her opponent left her astounded. Yun Che and Retsu had been able to see her attacks clearly, but to her opponents, they were almost imperceptible.

"It requires absolute concentration and a high mastery of Observation Haki. Little Yue really surprises even us," Yun Che remarked with a smile, knowing that she had already mastered Total Concentration Observation Haki, which slowed down her perception of time.

"Sorry, I was tricked by Yuyun to use it," Cang Yue explained after apologizing to her opponent.

"Use what?" Both Yun Che and Retsu wondered.

"One Sword Style – Onslaught. It's a special technique she developed using the Moon Empress's techniques and the Ittoryu. It requires my concentration and Haki. Right now, I am mentally exhausted, and I couldn't execute it for another few hours. I was just showing her in my mind, but my body reacted with it."

"Quite overkill for you to use such an advanced skill on a simple opponent, Little Yue," Retsu mused.

"Mouuu…. I was tricked," Cang Yue pouted, shaking her fist cutely.

"Anyway… you won… that's what matters," Yun Che reassured her, patting her head, which instantly brought a smile to her face. She had never realized how good it felt to receive such praise from Yun Che.

"I still don't understand how the resheath works," she pondered, remembering her use of Lion's Song back in the palace. She had simply used it without understanding how it functioned.

"Have you ever heard of 'Time is relative to the observer'?" Yun Che asked, quoting Einstein, though nobody in their world recognized the reference.

"No…" Cang Yue admitted, her curiosity piqued by Yun Che's words.

"Little Yue, if your concentration is high, your mind can even slow time itself. You mastered Total Concentration, right? You'll understand it," Yun Che explained before moving on with Retsu to watch another random match. Cang Yue pondered for a moment about his previous words. Could that be the reason why she could execute Iai attacks? Was it all because of her total concentration? She still didn't understand how it worked, but she decided to think it over when she had the time. With that in mind, she followed him from behind to watch another match.

Since the official start of the ranking tournament, Yun Che, Retsu, and Cang Yue had garnered an extreme level of attention. After their two consecutive instant victories each, totaling six wins, the level of attention they received skyrocketed. Three True Profound Realm disciples had defeated six Spirit Profound Realm opponents in a row, and all of them were instant victories! One shot, one win. Even the powerful elders accompanying the other disciples were greatly surprised. Cang Wanhe himself couldn't believe the development of his daughter, especially seeing her defeat two disciples by herself.

"Yue'er, you really changed," Cang Wanhe remarked, reflecting on how his daughter had transformed from a meek individual after her mother's death to someone entirely different. She had once hoped to become a spectacular cultivator solely to assist him, but now, she had evolved into someone remarkable, all thanks to Yun Che.

As Yun Che's third battle began, the jeers from the vicinity ceased, and the number of spectators once again increased explosively. This time, his opponent was at the third level of the Spirit Profound Realm. What made it even more interesting was that his opponent used the same weapon as the original Yun Che—a heavy sword.

However, his opponent no longer exuded the air of assured victory, unlike the previous contenders. This time, he approached with caution, probing Yun Che's defenses before launching into attacks with his weapon and profound energy.

What set this opponent apart was his lack of killing intent and the absence of any connection to those mobilized to defeat Yun Che. Smirking, Yun Che leaped as the sword descended, but instead of landing on the arena, he balanced atop the blade's dull side, stunning both his opponent and the spectators. As the opponent attempted another swing, Yun Che effortlessly maneuvered beside him, countering with a palm strike to the chest and disarming him in one fluid motion.

"Good sword," Yun Che remarked, testing the weapon's weight with a single hand. Even his opponent seemed taken aback by its lightness. The arena erupted in shock at the speed with which Yun Che had disarmed his adversary. However, instead of pressing for victory, Yun Che chose to impart a lesson in swordsmanship.

"Swinging a sword without strength is like wielding a stick. Too fast, no strength; too slow, easily dodged," Yun Che advised, demonstrating the proper technique by lifting the blade with one hand while keeping the other in his pocket. Then, he returned the sword to his opponent. The spectators watched in disbelief as Yun Che offered guidance to his opponent in the midst of battle.

"You seem new to this. Try it like this: swing the sword, then just before it reaches your opponent, infuse it with profound strength, and follow through with a counter swing. This way, your attacks won't be wasted, and you won't bury the sword into the ground," Yun Che explained calmly, gracefully dodging his opponent's strikes.

His opponent, initially dumbfounded, soon grasped the concept. With Yun Che's guidance, the swings became smoother and lighter. "Looking good," Yun Che remarked, continuing to evade the strikes effortlessly. The spectators could hardly believe their eyes—Yun Che was giving a swordsmanship lesson in the middle of a battle.

After a while, the opponent, exhausted from practicing the new technique, conceded defeat. "Thank you for the lesson in swordplay. I concede," he said, offering Yun Che a respectful salute as he stood up, slightly shaken but grateful for the unexpected instruction.

With that, the announcer announced the latter's win. "Blue Wind Empire Yun Che – Wins!"

"Anytime..." Yun Che flashed a cheeky grin before sauntering off the stage with his hands casually tucked into his coat pockets.

Once again, the arena was thrown into a state of shock. Another instant victory, but this time Yun Che not only spared his opponent but also returned his weapon, offering valuable pointers before the latter conceded defeat simply because he had been swinging his sword too much.

By the end of the first day, Yun Che had participated in five matches and emerged victorious in all of them. His swift victories threatened to leave no matches for him on the third day if he continued at this pace.

Meanwhile, Retsu's matches proceeded smoothly. Employing the same technique of countering and delivering a precise chop to her opponent's neck, she instilled fear in her opponents. Her fourth adversary conceded immediately, while her fifth hesitated before being swiftly incapacitated by Retsu's lightning-fast movement.

As for Cang Yue, her opponents were no match for her newfound sword skill, Ittoryu Iai: Totsugeki (One Sword Style Resheath: Onslaught). Her third and fourth adversaries conceded without a fight, but the fifth opted to challenge the princess.

Engaging in a few clashes, Cang Yue found her opponent lacking compared to her previous battles within the Moon World. Without needing to resort to Haki, she effortlessly disarmed him, ending the match with her blade poised beneath his neck, his surrender imminent.

This time, every eye on Yun Che, Retsu, and Cang Yue held no hints of scorn or ridicule. Instead, there was only shock and deep disbelief reverberating throughout the arena.

Perhaps due to sheer luck, Yun Che's group found themselves without any formidable opponents alongside Retsu and Cang Yue. To the spectators, their dominance seemed to stem not from luck, but from sheer strength, surpassing anyone else in the arena. There were no practitioners who could even be considered somewhat strong in comparison. With each effortless victory, their names became etched in the minds of all who witnessed their matches.

As the day came to a close, Yun Che, Retsu, and Cang Yue emerged as the dark horses of the tournament, each claiming five easy victories among the participants. Yet, perhaps "dark horse" was too mild a term for their unprecedented performance; they were more akin to freak occurrences, shocking everyone in the arena with their unmatched prowess.

Their meteoric rise instantly became the hottest topic among the spectators, but they weren't the only ones stirring up excitement. Xia Yuanba, with his Sixth Level True Profound Realm strength, also managed to secure five victories effortlessly. However, what truly set him apart was his unique combat prowess—his Tyrannical Emperor's Divine Veins granted him the ability to fight two levels above his opponent. Against those in the seventh and eighth levels, he proved utterly overbearing, yet somehow managed to restrain himself, defeating his opponents with a single decisive blow before humbly bowing to them. Regarded as a talent on par with Ling Jie, the spectators were thoroughly impressed by his performance, albeit they soon shifted their attention back to the remarkable trio from the Blue Wind Imperial Family.

Qin Wushang was smiling ear to ear as his Blue Wind Profound Palace ranking might steadily increased because of Yuanba. However, he was not pinning hopes on the other two as one of them was in the same group as Yun Che and the other is with Cang Yue. Judging from their winning streak, they might not make it and seems like these two had some kind of personal vendetta against them.

As the first day drew to a close, it was evident that the Blue Wind Imperial Family had seized the spotlight, capturing the attention and admiration of the spectators. Yun Che couldn't help but feel a swell of pride alongside Cang Wanhe and Xue Ling. It seemed that this year's tournament was shaping up to be an extraordinary one. Disappointment lingered for some sects who had already departed after suffering defeat in the initial round, opting not to linger. Meanwhile, the four great sects, though not receiving quite the same spotlight as the Blue Wind Imperial Family, also boasted flawless victories, with all their disciples securing five wins each. This ensured that they too left their mark on the tournament, albeit in a more understated manner.

As Gong Yuxian escorted her disciples from Frozen Cloud Asgard, her gaze lingered on the Blue Wind Imperial Family, particularly on Yun Che. This was the man whom her direct disciple, Xia Qingyue, had married. She had heard rumors of his incredible power, witnessed during their wedding, yet he had vanished for the past two years. Gong Yuxian couldn't help but wonder about his whereabouts and the reasons behind Xia Qingyue's dedication to gathering cultivation items through contribution missions. It seemed peculiar, but she trusted her disciple's judgment. Nevertheless, there was something intriguing about Yun Che, a hint of amusement in his demeanor that caught her attention.

Observing the interactions among the Blue Wind Imperial Family, Gong Yuxian's interest piqued further, especially regarding the princess and the braided girl. If she could persuade the braided girl to join Frozen Cloud Asgard, it would be a significant addition, potentially bringing another genius into her sect. Moreover, the princess could put a fine addition especially she possessed that mysterious technique from her master.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the bustling arena, Yun Che and his fiancées navigated the labyrinthine corridors that led away from the competition grounds. With the day's intense battles behind them, they collectively decided to venture into the heart of the Imperial City to satiate their appetites with a well-deserved dinner.

Despite the availability of assigned courtyards courtesy of the Heavenly Sword Villa, arranged for the comfort of participating sects, they collectively opted to venture into the heart of the Imperial City before returning to their accommodations for the night. However, before retiring later, they might take precautions to set up barriers to prevent any unwanted attention especially from Ling Yun and Fen Juecheng.

"Ne, Danna-sama. I am hungry," Mio said with less enthusiasm, despite having eaten most of the lunches with Nemu. Yun Che sighed inwardly, knowing that his girls were about to ask him to feed them once again.

"I am feeling a little hungry as well, Yuu-kun," Retsu chimed in.

"Me too," Nemu added, her expression stoic as always.

"Hai-hai, let's go to the city and find something to eat, girls," Yun Che suggested, recognizing their hunger after spending the entire day at the arena.

"Yatta, thank you, Danna-sama!" Mio exclaimed, latching onto his back, while the rest of his girls held his arms hostage.

"Ehe~, Danna-sama's back," Mio said with a blush, snuggling against his back, prompting a resigned sigh from Yun Che. Meanwhile, Retsu and Nemu each held one of his arms, while Cang Yue simply sighed at their antics.

"But… Mio-sama ate a lot of…" Nemu started to comment before Mio quickly hushed her. "Nemu-chan, shhhh…"

"Ara, no wonder the lunches are missing. Mio-chan~? I prepared for all of us but somehow it was finished," Retsu remarked with a hint of amusement in her tone.

"Ehe… busted," Mio admitted sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head as Retsu sighed in response. It seemed she would need to prepare more food for lunch tomorrow, ensuring to set aside a portion for Mio in case she got hungry early.

"Ufuu… this is kind of amusing," Cang Yue mused, watching the interactions within her family with a smile.

Xia Yuanba was waiting alongside Qin Wushang. "Haha! Brother-in-law, you simply don't know how spectacular the expressions of those people were. When I looked at them, their eyes seemed as though they were about to fall onto the ground. Hehe, I just knew that, the moment brother-in-law shows his hand, you will definitely give them a good fright."

"I told you, it's aniki! And you did great too. Five victories as well. You're the dark horse of this tournament," Yun Che said, lightly tapping his head with a karate chop. His girls released him, though they remained close by. Luckily, they had the decency to remain calm and composed in public.

"Ehee… I can't lose to you especially when you entered as a True Profound Realm. Some people looked at me, but they are more interested in you three." Yuanba grins before he rubs his head.

Xia Yuanba felt utterly embarrassed as his stomach growled louder than a roaring lion. Retsu and the others couldn't help but giggle at their so-called brother-in-law's antics. Yuanba bowed in embarrassment. "Brother-in-law, I'll excuse myself for a moment," he mumbled, cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

Qin Wushang raised an eyebrow, shooting Yun Che a pointed look. "Looks like I don't need to worry about your group though. Even strong practitioners aren't a match for you. Maybe I should tell my disciples to concede if they meet you," he remarked.

Yun Che simply chuckled and glanced sideways. "Ahaaa…," he responded, his grin widening at the playful banter.

"It kind of feels like bullying, if you ask me," Qin Wushang commented with a sweatdrop.

"No one said anything about entering as a strong cultivator," Yun Che retorted, prompting more giggles from his companions. It had been a successful first day, and with that, Qin Wushang bowed before heading to their assigned courtyards.

Meanwhile, Yuanba emerged from the men's room and hurried through the corridor in hopes of finding Yun Che's group. The sight that greeted him brought a smile to his face.