When Huo Yuhao and his companions arrived in Star Luo City that day, the morning light poured over its streets like molten gold.
The smoke from the ceremonial cannons had yet to disperse, weaving a pale blue veil through the slightly chilly air.
The entire city seemed like a world of dreams. Its spires and domes wore ribbons woven from violets and broom flowers, and even the moss along the gutters glittered with the diamond brilliance of morning dew.
It seemed a world apart from the hell on earth Huo Yuhao had encountered on his previous visit, when beast tides and warfare had ravaged the city.
Clearly, the emperor of the eastern Star Luo Empire, Xu Jiawei, had put considerable thought into organizing this Soul Fighting Tournament.
Before attending the opening ceremony, however, Huo Yuhao first led everyone to the Star Emperor Hotel and booked a month's accommodation.
The tournament arena stood before the main gates of the imperial palace. The site had been chosen because it was the easiest place for the Star Luo army to secure, offering Emperor Xu Jiawei and the empire's civil and military officials both the best view and the greatest safety.
When the sun stood high in the sky, the curtain rose.
"The Continental Advanced Soul Master Academy Soul Fighting Tournament is our world's foremost grand event. It was originally our Star Luo Empire's turn to host the previous tournament, but circumstances delayed it. Today, on behalf of Star Luo, I welcome all of you who have traveled from afar. May you display your brilliance throughout the coming month of competition."
"You honor us!" The members of the participating teams bowed to the emperor.
"Good. I hereby declare the Continental Advanced Soul Master Academy Soul Fighting Tournament officially open." As Xu Jiawei's words fell,