I Will Personally Cut Off Zhu Zhuqing's Head

Meanwhile, in a VIP room on the top floor of the Great Soul Arena.

Luxurious gilded decorations reflected the clamor outside, while a faint fragrance filled the air, forming a stark contrast to the sweltering atmosphere of the Spirit Dueling Arena below.

"Whatever else can be said about the Heaven Dou Empire, they certainly know how to put on a show when it comes to luxury."

Yan leaned lazily against the carved railing with his arms crossed, his gaze sweeping over the packed stands below as he spoke in a casual tone.

"It is indeed exquisite, but don't forget the true purpose of our trip."

Xie Yue was far steadier than Yan. As his gaze passed over the center of the arena, there was a hint of scrutiny in his eyes.

"With our current cultivation, even one of us could crush those teams on the other side. How could we possibly lose this Preliminary Tournament?"

Hu Liena's tone carried the confidence of Spirit Hall, though it was more restrained than usual.

"Take the enemy seriously strategically, but despise them psychologically—the more certain victory appears, the less room there is for carelessness."

Bai Bing's calm gaze rested on the distant entrance passage, her voice level yet earnest.

"That's true..."

Bai Bing's words snapped Yan out of it. He put away his casual manner and turned his gaze outside once more.

From the VIP room, the entire renovated Great Soul Arena lay in full view.

The vast circular arena was paved with specially made blue-black stone, with tier upon tier of spectator stands surrounding its edges.

The cheers and shouts of tens of thousands of spectators surged like a tide, the waves of sound nearly lifting the roof away.

Directly in front of the arena stood an especially dazzling ceremonial platform, its