The next morning, sunlight bathed Star Luo Stadium.
The enormous circular arena could hold tens of thousands of spectators, and every seat was already filled. Elite Soul Masters from across the Star Luo Empire, along with countless nobles and commoners, had gathered to witness the spectacle of this year's Continental Young Advanced Soul Master Elite Tournament.
Inside the lounge, Cai Yue'er was explaining the tournament rules to everyone with a grave expression.
"The rules for this tournament are a little different from before."
Cai Yue'er pointed at the tactics board and said solemnly, "There are three stages in total. The first is an individual competition with one-on-one elimination matches. The second consists of two-on-two matches, testing how well pairs work together. The third is a team competition, seven against seven."
Here, she paused, a trace of gravity flashing through her eyes. "As for the prize... it's a Ten Thousand Year Soul Bone."
"A Ten Thousand Year Soul Bone?!"
Everyone cried out in astonishment.
Soul Bones were treasures one could only stumble upon, never seek out at will. A Ten Thousand Year Soul Bone was worth a fortune, enough to drive any Soul Master mad with desire.
"That's right."
Cai Yue'er nodded. "The Star Luo Empire has spared no expense on this tournament. So you must give it your all. You absolutely cannot let your guard down."
Tang Wulin stood at the front of the group, feeling a slight aversion to Soul Bones. He did not know why, but he felt that accepting one would weigh on his conscience. That aversion was the main reason he had let Xie Xie have the first Soul Bone their group obtained at the Spirit Pagoda.
In the center of the arena, a burly young man stood opposite Tang Wulin.
"My name is Wu Xie."