The incense-stick-long rest flew by amid the crowd's feverish anticipation.
Above Yunqu Peak, wind and clouds converged.
The Ceremony Elder flew to the center of the square, formed seals with both hands, and began chanting an ancient, obscure incantation.
As he chanted, light spread rapidly outward from the center of the square. Countless luminous patterns interlocked and nested together, finally tracing an enormous formation over a thousand zhang across on the ground, its structure so intricate and precise that it made the soul reel!
"Activate-the Martial Tournament Disc!"
His beard and hair bristling, the Ceremony Elder slammed the final seal, laden with immense immortal power, into the formation's core!
"Hummm!"
Before everyone's stunned eyes, space rippled like a curtain of water, revealing a vast platform suspended in the endless void!
Upon the platform, phantom mountains, the outlines of rivers, and even fleeting traces of the paths of stars were faintly visible. Yet all lay beneath a gray haze of chaotic mist, shifting constantly, utterly unreal.
"Eighteen contestants have advanced to the final round!" The Ceremony Elder's voice thundered.
"The rules bear repeating: any means are permitted; only victory and defeat matter! Anyone who leaves the disc, concedes, or loses the ability to fight will be eliminated!"
"Now, enter!"
"Raaah!"
Cheers and shouts surged like mountains roaring and seas crashing, instantly engulfing Yunqu Peak!
Every member of the Yun Clan, young or old, regardless of branch, felt their blood boil as they fixed their eyes on those eighteen figures!
The current Twelve Young Masters and the six who had fought their way through the challengers became streaks of differently colored light. They shot into the sky and charged fearlessly into that danger-ridden arena with unstoppable momentum!
Yun Qing nodded to Yun Huang in farewell. His black-robed figure became an intensely condensed