The Star Spirit Vine in Ye Lingyun's hand shone with faint starlight. He could feel the envious and greedy gazes directed at him. Yet he had no time to savor the fruits of victory, because more and more people were gathering around him.
Bing Qing'er, Xue Yao, and the other contestants from Icewave Academy arrived as well. A flicker of delighted surprise crossed their eyes when they saw the Star Spirit Vine in Ye Lingyun's hand.
"Ye Lingyun, you did it!" Bing Qing'er's voice carried a hint of excitement.
Ye Lingyun nodded slightly, but his gaze remained vigilant as he watched his surroundings. He knew the struggle had only just begun.
"Everyone, the power of the Star Spirit Vine is enough to change our destinies," Ye Lingyun told the Icewave Academy team. "We must stand united if we want to bring it back safely."
"Ye Lingyun is right. We can't let this Star Spirit Vine fall into anyone else's hands," Bing Qing'er said firmly.
But just as they prepared to leave, figures surged toward them from every direction. Every pair of eyes gleamed with longing for the Star Spirit Vine.
"Those of you from Icewave Academy, leave the Star Spirit Vine behind, and you can walk away safely." A voice rose from the crowd, carrying a hint of menace.
Ye Lingyun's gaze sharpened and settled on a young man in black robes. He was a contestant from Darknight Academy and a formidable opponent in this tournament.
"Darknight Academy, you wish," Bing Qing'er said with a trace of disdain. "The Star Spirit Vine is ours. Don't even dream of laying a finger on it."
"Then don't blame us for showing no mercy." The young man from Darknight Academy sneered. His body suddenly became a black shadow that charged straight at Ye