The next day, atop Yunqu Peak.
Dawn broke, and purple qi surged across three thousand miles.
The final trial of the Profound Ascension Ceremony-the "Sixfold Unity" battle-was about to begin.
Dressed in black robes and a jade crown, Yun Qing stood at the center of the raised platform. His double pupils swept over the thirteen Lineage Leaders and the thousands of clansmen below, his clear, ringing voice carrying in every direction:
"Based on the combined assessment of the first two trials, the top four lineages have been decided. Desolate City, Southern Mountain, Western Ridge, and Northern Marsh have advanced to the final trial."
"The final test brings past, present, and future together in Sixfold Unity. Each lineage will send one elder, two members of its middle generation, and three outstanding youths-six combatants in all. Three generations, six people, resisting outside foes together and sharing honor and disgrace!"
"Now, combatants of the four lineages, enter the arena!"
As his words fell, powerful auras erupted from the four lineages' camps!
"Here we go! Here we go! That brat Yun Poxiao is finally taking the stage!" In the spectators' seats, Yun Jinglei's orange hair dazzled the eye as he chattered excitedly to either side. "Too bad Yun Baojian isn't here. An occasion like this is only half as fun without that iceberg."
"You're mistaken there, Cousin Jinglei." Beside him, Yun Tianluo struck a pose, gently waving his folding fan with a refined smile. "Though Junior Brother Baojian is absent, the four lineages have gathered today, with three generations sharing the stage. Surely that will offer its own splendor. A pity we have no chance to participate..." He glanced at Yun Ge, who was tuning his zither nearby, and his smile deepened. "Someone's itching to show his skills."
"Pfft." Yun Hua, whose brush had