"Che'er… are you sure? Are you absolutely sure?!" Cang Wanhe's voice trembled with disbelief, his expression mirroring the shock on Xue Ling's face. They were gathered in a private dining hall, the weight of the discussion pressing heavily over their meal.
"I am," Yun Che replied firmly, his gaze unwavering. "I interrogated them last night before killing them. What I found out… was disturbing." His tone carried a grim edge, and Retsu and Mio nodded in silent confirmation beside him. He left the part where the interrogation was merely stealing information using his Sharingan while he was fighting Wu Mushan.
Yun Che leaned forward, his voice steady but laced with an ominous edge as he revealed the Wu Clan's insidious plans to the group. "Their elites didn't enter the tournament just to win. Their goal was to find the killer of Wu Nie and secure influence within the Imperial Family by embedding their people as guards and officials. Once positioned, they intended to assassinate the Imperial Family and install a puppet ruler—a branch member of the Cang Family from Jin Providence. That man, Cang Xingwu, likely came all the way here to pave the way for this plan, assuming Cang Yue would fall. But thanks to her boosted strength, their ambitions crumbled."
"The visit was to…" Xue Ling trailed off, her expression shifting as the pieces fell into place.
"Indeed," Yun Che confirmed. "If Little Yue had lost the battle with that cousin of hers, Cang Xingwu would have positioned himself as the next emperor. And if you, old man," Yun Che gestured toward Cang Wanhe, "were to die under mysterious circumstances, he'd be next in line. It was a calculated move, all banked on the Imperial Palace's weakness after Cang Lin's rebellion. But now that plan is history, thanks to Shin Yue's intervention."
Cang Wanhe's expression darkened at the revelation, while Xue Ling clenched her fists.
"So, their ultimate plan was to win the tournament, infiltrate the Imperial Family, and silently take over the Imperial Palace, knowing it was vulnerable," Yun Che continued. "With the rebellion as a distraction and the palace's defenses weakened, they thought they could strike swiftly and decisively. Tonight was meant to insert their forces into the Imperial City to blend in and strike once the order is given."
"To think that the Wu Clan's forces were stationed so close to the city, ready to act…" Cang Wanhe murmured, the weight of the betrayal pressing on him.
"All of this was to smooth the way for an eventual invasion once their army was prepared," Yun Che added grimly. "But their plans fell apart the moment Mio annihilated their hidden forces last night. They tried to silence us, but instead, they lost everything they had in Blue Wind Imperial City."
Gasps echoed around the room. Cang Wanhe's hands tightened into fists, and Xue Ling's face darkened with fury.
"That's not all," Yun Che continued. "They've already begun preparations for an invasion of Blue Wind Imperial City once the palace has been taken. It's set to happen in two weeks—right before the Heavenly Basin Secret Realm event. Based on what I've gathered, they will use the Jin Providence as a staging area. Not to mention, close to the sea. They seemed to have taken Wangya and Jinshan Island from the Jin Family."
"Jin Providence again…" Retsu murmured, her voice laced with suspicion. "That name keeps coming up these past few days."
"I have matters there as well," Cang Wanhe admitted gravely. "The patriarch of the Jin Family, Jin Zhuo , the ruler of Jin Providence, has sent word asking for help. A rebellion has risen within their province, possibly tied to the Wu Clan if this is what happened last night. On top of that, funding sent from the Imperial Family has gone missing. They've kept the situation under wraps, but he's sending his daughter to the Imperial City in a few days to discuss it further."
"Daughter? Jin? Holy…" Mio's eyes widened as realization dawned. "Could it be her, Danna-sama?" she said excitedly, recalling the events of the previous night.
"You met the daughter?" Xue Ling asked, curiosity flickering across her face.
"Most probably," Yun Che replied, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "A red-clad, armored woman intercepted the last fleeing Wu elder before we could. She killed him with a single strike. Her name… I think she said it was Jin Mulan?"
"Jin Mulan… it's her. That's the daughter of the Patriarch of the Jin Family, Jin Mulan. Her wedding was a massive event five years ago in the Jin Providence," Lin Yueru began, her tone thoughtful. "She married a useless but oddly genius cripple who managed to resolve the major issues of the Jin Family, to the point where they no longer needed assistance from the Imperial Family."
"Let me guess... Mu Che?" Yun Che asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, Mu Che," Lin Yueru confirmed, her eyes narrowing in recognition. "That's the name of Jin Mulan's husband. No wonder it sounded familiar. I guess the Wu Clan wasn't the first to call you that."
Yun Che let out a soft sigh and leaned back. He wondered if they targeted him because of what he did to Wu Nie but turns out, they targeted him because they thought he was Mu Che. "The thing is, I'm not him. But we did meet Jin Mulan last night. She did spout some nonsense, but based on her actions—killing that Wu Clan elder in cold blood—I'd guess she either did it to protect me or for some other motive tied to the Wu Clan. Either way, she kept begging me to go back with her."
Lin Yueru crossed her arms. "In other words, she may have more to disclose about the situation in Jin Providence when she arrives at the Blue Wind Imperial Palace."
Cang Wanhe leaned forward, concern etched on his face. "What do you think, Che'er? Should I mobilize our armies to Jin Providence?"
Yun Che shook his head, his expression calm but calculated. "It's better to keep this matter under wraps for now and focus on the tournament. Right now, the Wu Clan's higher-ups in Jin Providence likely think everything is proceeding according to their plans. Let them believe that. Once the tournament concludes, we'll make our move. We'll head to Jin Providence under the guise of Little Yue's official visit. Once there, we'll handle the situation and dismantle the Wu Clan before they can fully prepare their army."
Cang Yue's expression darkened slightly. "Che'er, if we go there, we can expect a lot more people calling you Mu Che. Something about this doesn't feel right."
Yun Che nodded slowly, pondering her words. "According to Jin Mulan, based on what she told me last night, Mu Che disappeared five years ago. And from what Yueru said, he was some sort of genius who managed to stabilize the Jin Providence. If he was so critical to their success, why did he vanish?"
"Could his disappearance be connected to what's happening now?" Lin Yueru asked.
"It might be," Yun Che admitted, a spark of curiosity flickering in his eyes. "For someone able to manage the Jin Providence so effectively, he must have been extraordinary in some way. Even if he's a prick, I can't help but be impressed by the stories surrounding him. But what could have caused him to vanish without a trace?"
The room fell silent as everyone contemplated the enigma of Mu Che, a name that seemed to linger in the shadows of their current crisis.
"That Jin Mulan probably has more details," Lin Yueru said, her tone calm but cautious.
Yun Che nodded. "For now, let's keep the Wu Clan's matters between us. It's going to be our element of surprise when we finally get there. If they don't see us coming, they won't have time to react."
The group exchanged glances and nodded in agreement. Yun Che's plan was sound. They would focus on the tournament for now, keeping their strategies quiet and their true intentions hidden. With two weeks before the opening of the Heaven Basin Secret Realm, the window to dismantle the Wu Clan would be short, but it was manageable if they struck decisively.
"For now, the priority is clear—win the tournament," Yun Che said firmly in his mind. His gaze sharpened, his thoughts already turning to the next step. "I'll need to focus on beating Ling Yun. The rest will come after."
Yun Che's mind remained preoccupied with one lingering mystery—Mu Che's death. Despite everything that had unfolded, this puzzle gnawed at him. As he finished scanning Wu Mushan's mind, he confirmed a crucial fact: their victory here would not stop the impending invasion in two weeks.
The Wu Clan had already solidified their plans. The conquest of Wangya and Jinshan Island had become a staging point for the invasion. More troubling was the role Mu Che had played in all of this. He had been securing Jin Providence through the Jin Family's influence, ensuring the region remained under control. That explained why the emperor never had to worry about fortifying that area—Mu Che had handled it himself. Yet, despite his cunning, the Wu Clan had somehow outmaneuvered him, turning Jin Providence into their invasion stronghold.
Mu Che was more than just a schemer—he was a battle-hardened strategist, a scoundrel, and a survivor. He had successfully purged and secured the Jin Providence for his own purposes. But in the end, even the most cunning snake was bound to meet its demise. The Wu Clan had managed to counter him, twisting the province he developed into their foothold for war.
If Yun Che wanted to unravel the truth about Mu Che, the Wu Clan, and—most importantly—prevent the invasion, he had only one course of action. He had to reach Jin Providence. The moment this tournament ended, that would be his next destination.
He wasn't doing this for Mu Che. He didn't care about Jin Providence either. The only reason he was considering this mission was for Cang Yue. And by extension, her father.
Even if he had to deal with Jin Mulan again.
Pulling up the system map, he calculated the distance. By land, Jin Providence was three days away. A flying ark, with its sluggish speed, would take over a day. That wasn't fast enough.
He needed something faster.
Something powerful enough to repel the invasion before it even began.
As the others tidied up after dinner, Yun Che turned to Nemu. "Nemu, can you develop something for me?"
Her eyes sparkled instantly. Developing meant she could dive into the wonders of his technological knowledge. "Hai! You can leave it to me, Yuu-sama!"
Yun Che uploaded several blueprints to her, and the moment the system projected them before her, she practically glowed with excitement. "A week should be enough to develop them, right?" he asked.
"Hai! I only need four days and… thousands of tons of raw materials," Nemu replied, her voice filled with anticipation and sparkled eyes. The blueprint creation itself was simple with the system's assistance—she just needed the necessary materials. She didn't even have to gather them manually; she only needed to merge existing components and let the system fulfill the blueprint's requirements.
"You can use the system's construction mode to generate the materials you need," Yun Che suggested.
Nemu nodded but then suddenly froze. A realization struck her. "But I still need raw materials… Who am I going to ask to—"
At that moment, both she and Yun Che turned their gaze toward Kon.
The small lion plush stiffened. "W-Why are you two looking at me like that…?" His entire body trembled as Nemu and Yun Che's eyes locked onto him like predators eyeing their prey.
"No… No… NO!!!"
----------------------
As expected, the Wu Clan's affairs remained shrouded in silence. Even when an investigation was launched regarding their missing prisoners, it yielded nothing. It was as if the Wu Clan had simply packed up and vanished without a trace.
Meanwhile, the tournament continued as scheduled the next day. Since Retsu had won her match against Cang Yue, she earned a well-deserved day off. Cang Yue, on the other hand, would have to wait for the losing-side tournament, where the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth places would be determined. This part of the competition would take place in the main arena during the morning of the semifinals, meaning she would get another chance to fight tomorrow.
As for the losing participants from the Round of Sixteen, they were set to face off today in a separate section of the arena. After a series of decisive battles, the rankings were updated. Shui Wushuang secured the ninth position, while Wu Xuexin claimed the tenth as none of the losing opponents dared to go against the Frozen Cloud Asgard. Both had dominated their matches in the losing bracket, proving their strength and earning their final placements in the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament.
Since the second match had concluded earlier than expected, today's schedule proceeded with the first, third, and fourth matches.
Meanwhile, Ling Yun and Ling Jie couldn't shake the unease growing in their hearts. Their father had been in closed-door cultivation for an unusually long time, and even more troubling was the complete absence of any news about their mother. It was as if she had vanished without a trace.
Yun Che and the others arrived at the venue once again, but today felt different. Since Retsu didn't have a match, she and Mio took the liberty of preparing meals for everyone. Dressed in a formal kimono, Retsu carried herself with her usual grace, relishing a rare moment of leisure. She was glad she had a day off and she thanked Cang Yue for bringing their match early.
Nemu, on the other hand, remained inside the Inner World, dedicating herself to developing the blueprints Yun Che had provided. Officially, she was "training" at the palace, but in reality, she was immersed in her work. She planned to rejoin the group later to witness Yun Che's highly anticipated fight against Ling Yun.
As for Kon, he had been assigned the role of a gopher, tirelessly scouring for material samples. Yun Che had given Nemu full access to drain as many System Points as needed to complete the blueprints without limitations.
Due to Cang Yue's hidden and revealed strength as a Half Step Sky Profound Realm, the imperial soldiers blocked all access for people to try and talk to her to obtain her secrets. Some of them mysteriously lose consciousness and seeing such phenomenon, none dare to go closer to the Imperial Family Seating Zone.
Cang Wanhe beamed with pride at his daughter's achievement as he seen her with Xue Ling and Lin Yueru. Despite her loss to Retsu, she had secured a place among the top eight entirely on her own merit. He couldn't be prouder. If Yun Che and Retsu had never entered the tournament, there was little doubt that Cang Yue would have been crowned the champion.
Cang Wanhe could still hear the cheers echoing through the Imperial City, the voices of his people filled with admiration and pride. His daughter's name was chanted like a victory anthem, and a single tear slipped down his cheek.
She had never pursued power or prestige—her cultivation had been driven by survival, by an unyielding desire to protect him. Yet, despite the risks, she had stepped onto the battlefield of the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament, carrying the Imperial Family's banner. She fought not only for herself but to prove that even those from so-called weaker backgrounds could rise above expectations.
Match after match, she shattered doubts. She climbed from the top 32 to the top 16, then secured her place in the top eight. Though she ultimately lost to a fellow Imperial Family member, her journey had already cemented her as a symbol of perseverance. She had fought with honor, and in the eyes of the people, she had already won.
Not long ago, she had been at the mere Eighth Level of the True Profound Realm. Yet in just two months by Yun Che's side, she had soared to the Peak of the Earth Profound Realm. Such an extraordinary leap placed her among the greatest prodigies of the century, standing alongside Nezuko.
No one dared to refer to her by name anymore. To do so would be an insult. After unveiling her true strength, she had become a sensation—not only within the villa but throughout the entire Imperial City, where the match had been broadcasted. Now, she was no longer just Cang Yue. She was Princess Cang Yue.
Though she had lost the match, she had won something far greater—the hearts of her people. She had proven herself worthy of the title she carried. From this day forward, she would forever be known as the Blue Moon Princess of the Blue Wind Empire.
Yet, in a way, her loss was a greater victory than winning the tournament itself. Now, the younger generation had a new benchmark—Cang Yue. While none could match the overwhelming prowess of Unohana Retsu or Nezuko, aspiring cultivators no longer looked to Ling Yun as the standard to beat. Instead, they compared themselves to Cang Yue in terms of strength, elegance and beauty.
Ling Yun has now become a relic.
The young master of the villa clenched his fists, his jaw tightening as he overheard the murmurs from the crowd. It was as if he had been erased from the rankings before he had even fought. Some openly speculated that if he were to face Cang Yue now, he wouldn't even last a few breaths. People used to adore him as the top genius and showered him with praise. Now, everyone began comparing him to the Imperial Princess.
A sharp bitterness swelled in his chest. He had already been overshadowed by the three goddesses privately, and now even Cang Yue had surpassed him out in the open. He refused to let Yun Che do the same. If he falls, those goddesses will sway over to him.
Now, all eyes turned to the arena. Xia Qingyue rose to her feet, her gaze unwavering. The time for distraction was over. Unohana Retsu's victory over the Imperial Princess Cang Yue had been remarkable, but Qingyue could not afford to dwell on it. If she won today's match, she would inevitably face Retsu later, and she needed to prepare herself for that challenge.
From the stands, Gong Yuxian inhaled deeply, silently observing her disciple. Xia Qingyue was about to face the strongest contender from the Xiao Sect. While Yuxian was confident in her abilities, she couldn't shake the anxiety building in her chest.
The arena fell silent as the tournament announcer's voice rang out.
"Due to the second match concluding earlier, with the victory of Blue Wind Imperial Family's Unohana Retsu, we will now proceed with three matches today. And with that, we will begin the first match of the quarterfinals!"
-----------------
Quarterfinals First Match
Frozen Cloud Asgard's Xia Qingyue ----------versus------------ Xiao Sect's Xiao Kuanglei
-----------------------
The moment Ling Wugou's voice rang out across the Sword Discourse Arena, silence blanketed the massive crowd. His words were clear and absolute.
"May the two contestants enter the Sword Discourse Arena within thirty breaths of time. Otherwise, it will be deemed as renouncing the match!"
Yun Che smirked. This match was unfolding just like in the real novel—except this time, instead of being the fourth match, Xia Qingyue's battle against Xiao Kuanglei was now the first.
Both fighters represented the last standing disciples of their sects—Frozen Cloud Asgard and the Xiao Sect. Whoever lost here would be completely eliminated from the top four. It was humiliating enough that the Blue Wind Imperial Family, once the weakest presence in every previous tournament, had already secured a top-four position with overwhelming dominance.
From the VIP stands, Xiao Juetian observed the battlefield with a calculating gaze. His voice was calm yet firm as he addressed his son.
"Even though Frozen Cloud Asgard's Xia Qingyue is undoubtedly talented, reaching the eighth level of the Spirit Profound Realm at just seventeen, she is still a disciple of Frozen Cloud Asgard. It is impossible for them to nurture a top warrior like Imperial Princess Cang Yue. She is too young, too inexperienced. Her rapid advancement must have made her profound strength unstable."
He narrowed his eyes slightly before continuing.
"As long as nothing unexpected happens, you should win this match easily. But you must never underestimate your opponent. Time and again, so-called geniuses have fallen because of their arrogance. Do you understand?"
Xiao Kuanglei clenched his fists and nodded. His father's words rang true—but deep down, a bitter realization gnawed at him. His path forward was a nightmare.
If he won against Xia Qingyue, he would have to face Unohana Retsu next—an opponent he had no hope of defeating.
If he lost here, he would be forced into a match against Cang Yue—who had become a force of her own, proving herself beyond expectations.
No matter what, his fate in this tournament seemed sealed.
The Blue Wind Imperial Family had backed Xiao Kuanglei into a corner before the match had even begun. His options were grim—win and face an opponent he couldn't possibly defeat, or lose and face another near-impossible challenge.
Xiao Juetian had only encouraged him to win against Xia Qingyue because she was the only 'normal' opponent left for him. Xiao Kuangyu placed a firm hand on his younger brother's shoulder, his expression serious.
"Third Brother, good luck. The Burning Heaven Clan was completely crushed before the round of 32 by the Blue Wind Imperial Family and they defeated two of our elites. Only you managed to make it this far. If you win this match, our sect's overall ranking will be guaranteed a minimum of top four."
Sensing something unsaid, Xiao Kuanglei narrowed his eyes. "There's something you're not telling me. Say it!"
Xiao Kuangyu hesitated before sighing. "After witnessing Unohana Retsu's match against Shui Wushuang, I have my doubts. If you win here… can you even face that Unohana Retsu?"
Xiao Kuanglei clenched his fists. "I have to win. The Xiao Sect already lost two members to Yun Che and Unohana Retsu. Just one more victory, and I'll secure a top-four position."
Xiao Kuangyu's gaze sharpened. "You sound like you have an advantage. Do you?"
A smirk played at the corner of Xiao Kuanglei's lips. "Don't worry. In this match, I will only win, never lose! Don't forget, I have yet to reveal my Earth Shocking Sword. Once I unleash it, forget about Xia Qingyue at the eighth level of the Spirit Profound Realm—even someone at the peak of the tenth level wouldn't be able to defeat me."
His confidence was absolute. But whether that confidence was justified or misplaced… would soon be revealed.
Xiao Wuji's brows furrowed in concern. "In terms of weaponry, we may not necessarily hold the advantage."
His voice carried a weight of caution as he continued. "We have the Earth Shocking Sword, but don't forget—Frozen Cloud Asgard possesses the 'Ice Phoenix Snowflower Ribbon.' Shui Wushuang already lost to Unohana Retsu, and that same person defeated Imperial Princess Cang Yue, who was at the Peak of the Earth Profound Realm. That means Frozen Cloud Asgard has even more reason to avoid defeat. I wouldn't be surprised if they grant Xia Qingyue a Sky Profound Weapon just to level the playing field."
Xiao Wuji's distaste for Yun Che was well-known, particularly after the latter had brutally defeated Xiao Zhen—though, ironically, Xiao Zhen had always reveled in his own brutality. Despite his personal grudge, this match wasn't just about Yun Che anymore. It was about the Xiao Sect's reputation.
The Burning Heaven Clan had already been disgraced, eliminated by the Blue Wind Imperial Family. The Xiao Sect could not be next.
"Hmph. You're overthinking this completely." Xiao Boyun scoffed, his tone tinged with irritation. "One must be at least in the Earth Profound Realm to truly master the 'Ice Phoenix Snowflower Ribbon.' Even if Xia Qingyue wields it, she'll only be able to unleash, at best, thirty percent of its power."
He crossed his arms, shaking his head dismissively. "Besides, even if she could wield its full might, so what? With both of them holding Sky Profound Weapons, Kuanglei's experience and profound strength far surpass hers. Are you seriously suggesting that wouldn't be enough to secure his victory?"
There was a tense silence before he added, voice lower but no less sharp.
"Even if Kuanglei has a Sky Profound Weapon… can she use it to defeat Unohana Retsu? Whom didn't even need her weapon against Frozen Cloud Asgard?"
That name alone sent a ripple through the group.
Unohana Retsu.
The same mysterious beauty who had crushed Princess Cang Yue—who had fought with all her strength at the Peak of the Earth Profound Realm—as if it was nothing.
Even if Xiao Kuanglei did manage to defeat Xia Qingyue…
Could he even stand a chance against her?
Meanwhile, Yun Che's Haki picked up on something—that weapon.
The 'Ice Phoenix Snowflower Ribbon'… a Sky Profound Realm weapon. But he knew something even more crucial. A Sky Profound weapon was useless unless the wielder's cultivation matched its rank.
At the same time, he sensed Xiao Kuanglei's own weapon—the Earth Shocking Sword. Another Sky Profound Realm weapon.
These weapons were undeniably powerful, but they paled in comparison to a Conjured Bending Elemental Weapon. Unlike traditional weapons, these conjured creations scaled with the user's cultivation and imagination, making them infinitely adaptable.
In Quincy lore, warriors could materialize weapons using Reishi and Reiryoku, forming constructs equal in strength to their own power. However, the world of Bleach lacked rigid rankings and power levels, meaning Quincy weapons were designed to support rather than define a user's strength.
But with unlocked bending, Yun Che and his allies could overwrite those limitations.
In Avatar lore, elemental benders could forge weapons from their mastered element. Yet, with the System's enhancements, Yun Che and the others could push beyond natural boundaries. By condensing conjured weapons and infusing them with Haki and Reiryoku—then merging them with Reishi—they could create weapons that surpassed their own cultivation. The true potential of these weapons depended entirely on their bending mastery.
Yet, looking at Retsu, it was clear she had already shattered expectations.
Her Zanpakutō and Kitetsu were already fearsome, but the fact that she could now conjure weapons stronger than her cultivation itself was enough to disrupt the balance of cultivation in this world.
He understood that Against the Gods had a structured cultivation system. Given Xia Qingyue's refined control and talent, she would undoubtedly wield her weapon with precision.
Yet, in the eyes of the Xiao Clan, they underestimated her completely.
"Everyone, be at ease. If I lose this match, I won't have the face to return to the Xiao Sect," Xiao Kuanglei declared firmly.
With that, he bent his knees and launched himself over a hundred meters into the air, his movement sharp and controlled. The moment his feet touched the ground, he leaped again, his body cutting through the air like a shadow before landing dead center in the Sword Discourse Arena.
Before his feet fully settled, the unmistakable ring of a blade being unsheathed filled the silent arena. His longsword gleamed under the sunlight, its imposing aura sending a shiver through the crowd. Even the most seasoned warriors couldn't help but draw in a breath of admiration. It wasn't just the sword that carried weight—it was the presence of its wielder.
Xiao Kuanglei clenched his grip.
Win or lose, he was cornered.
If he won, he would face the unfathomable power of Unohana Retsu. If he lost, the Peak Earth Profound Realm Princess, Cang Yue, would be waiting to strike him down. Either way, his opponent would be from the Blue Wind Imperial Family.
But for the honor of the Xiao Sect, he would win this fight—no matter the cost.
Seated in the stands, Yun Che casually leaned back, his gaze flickering. Beside him, Yoru and Mio sat in silence as he pulled up the system notification.
---------------------
[Name: Xiao Kuanglei]
[Age: 20]
[Level: 39] (Nineth Level Spirit Profound Realm)
[Xiao Kuanglei – Third son of Xiao Juetian. Younger brother to Xiao Kuangfei and Xiao Kuangyu. His youngest brother, Xiao Kuangyun, met a grim fate—devoured by a Hollow in the mountain range, a consequence of his own greed when he sought to hunt you down.
Xiao Kuanglei wields the Earth Shocking Sword, a powerful Sky Profound Realm weapon bestowed upon him by the Xiao Sect for this tournament.
In the original course of events, he was meant to face Xia Qingyue in the fourth match of the quarterfinals. However, with Xia Qingyue now taking the spot that should have been yours, their battle has been pushed forward to the first match instead.]
[The results? You already know]
---------------------------
Meanwhile, Chu Yueli stood outside the Blue Wind Imperial Family's seating area, waiting for Xia Qingyue. She had to admit—their seating zone was impenetrable from the outside. No one could see in, yet from within, everything was crystal clear. It made sense why Retsu, Mio, and Nemu had removed their veils once inside. Even she had done the same, now comfortably enjoying the refreshments prepared by Retsu and Mio.
But setting that aside, her focus was on Xia Qingyue.
As her disciple approached, Chu Yueli offered a single piece of advice. "Just hold back a bit. Only use your Frozen Cloud Arts."
Xia Qingyue furrowed her brows. "Master? Shouldn't I reveal more?"
Chu Yueli sighed inwardly. Unohana Retsu—her strength was still a mystery. Waterbending? That was just a fraction of her true abilities. She had effortlessly overwhelmed Shui Wushuang, and if she truly commanded water laws, then Frozen Cloud Asgard's techniques would only fuel her power. If she and Yun Che truly annihilated the Burning Heaven Clan that night….
Tomorrow's battle… Xia Qingyue might have to go all out. And yet, even Chu Yueli wasn't sure what "going all out" meant against someone like Retsu. That same woman had just served her tea as if she weren't one of the most powerful individuals here.
"Yes, but you've seen it yourself—Retsu's waterbending. To her, our arts are just fuel to empower her water laws. You might actually need your full power against her or…" Chu Yueli hesitated, stopping herself.
"Or?" Xia Qingyue pressed.
"It's nothing." Chu Yueli turned away, unwilling to plant doubts in her disciple's mind. Some things were better left unsaid.
Xia Qingyue respectfully saluted before turning gracefully, her delicate figure exuding an air of quiet elegance. With a final glance at Chu Yueli, who gave her a subtle nod of encouragement, she moved forward. Her steps were light as a feather, yet they carried an undeniable presence.
At the same time, she sneaks a glance at the Blue Wind Imperial Family seating zone, hoping someone would watch her.
As she landed in front of Xiao Kuanglei, an ice sword silently materialized in her grasp—crystalline and pristine, radiating an intense cold. A Frozen Cloud Asgard disciple's signature weapon. Yet, compared to the conjured ice sword Unohana Retsu had displayed, it lacked the same refined elegance and uniqueness.
Frozen Cloud Asgard's warriors all wielded swords formed of ice, each radiating an aura of frost unique to its wielder. Xia Qingyue's was no exception. However, its grade paled in comparison to the one Chu Yuechan had once wielded in her desperate battle against Granz and the twin flood dragons in the Hollow's Basin, deep within the Wasteland of Death.
Ling Wugou surveyed both fighters before nodding in approval.
"Good!" His voice echoed through the arena as he raised his right hand.
"First Match of the Quarterfinals: Frozen Cloud Asgard's Xia Qingyue versus Xiao Sect's Xiao Kuanglei!"
A brief silence fell. Then—
"Match, start!"
"This humble one is Xiao Kuanglei. Please guide me in the ways of Fairy's Frozen Cloud Arts!"
Xiao Kuanglei offered a polite smile, yet his stance was anything but gentle. His longsword pointed forward, sharp and unwavering. In a burst of motion, he spun rapidly, conjuring a jade-green cyclone around him. The fierce image of a tyrannical eagle unfurled behind his back, its piercing gaze mirroring the rising intensity of his aura. His profound energy surged, pushing his presence to a level that drew murmurs of admiration from the crowd.
Frozen Cloud Asgard was a sanctuary of ethereal beauty, a sect where every disciple was a vision of elegance and grace. Though Xia Qingyue's face remained concealed beneath a white veil, her luminous eyes, delicate figure, and exposed snowy skin were more than enough to proclaim her as a beauty capable of toppling cities.
She was similar, in some ways, to the enigmatic Unohana Retsu—shrouded in an impenetrable mystery. Unlike Xia Qingyue, however, Retsu was a specter of secrecy; no one had ever glimpsed her face. Draped entirely in her kimono, the only parts of her visible to the world were her hands. Not even her ankles had been exposed. Even if she is using a battle kimono, she is still fully covered.
Yun Che exhaled softly, already anticipating what was to come.
Before a woman of such beauty, even a man of considerable strength would feel compelled to show off. To impress her, to earn her admiration—it was a foolish but inevitable vanity. And Xiao Kuanglei was no exception.
Xia Qingyue moved with a grace that outmatched Xiao Kuanglei's speed. She thrust her sword forward, and in that instant, a magnificent ice lotus bloomed at its tip, its crystalline petals shimmering under the tournament lights.
"She has excellent ice control," Mio observed, her eyes keenly following the battle.
"She is… much better than Miss Shui," Retsu murmured, an almost imperceptible nod of approval in her tone.
Before their swords even clashed, the sheer force of Xiao Kuanglei's sword wind met the ice lotus head-on. A sharp clang echoed as the swirling wind shredded the lotus into fragments. But instead of dissipating, the ice shards transformed into countless solid chunks, swirling within the raging storm before descending upon Xiao Kuanglei like a relentless frozen rain.
The arena erupted into a dazzling display—a vortex of ice and snow spiraling around them in a chaotic dance.
Clang! Clang! Clang!
Each shard was deflected as Xiao Kuanglei expertly swung his blade, shattering the ice around him. Yet, beneath his composed expression, he felt it—the biting cold that lingered beyond the mere physical impact. His hands, flushed red from the chilling energy, trembled slightly as he took two deep breaths to fully suppress the numbness.
Taking half a step back, he exhaled, forcing a smile. "I have long heard of Frozen Cloud Asgard's unparalleled Frozen Cloud Art. I wonder—can it compare to Fairy Retsu's water arts?" His tone was laced with curiosity, but also challenge. "Next, I'll be more serious. You should be careful now, Fairy Xia. I will win this and test myself against Fairy Retsu."
The mention of her name—Unohana Retsu—sent a sudden ripple through Xia Qingyue's composure.
A surge of profound energy erupted from her, the icy aura around her intensifying. The techniques she had spent years mastering, the Frozen Cloud Arts she had painstakingly cultivated—she once believed them to be absolute. But witnessing her, seeing how effortlessly Retsu wielded the true laws of water, reshaped that belief.
She was not jealous.
She was envious.
Xia Qingyue controlled ice—only ice. It was rigid, fixed, and limited. But Retsu? She manipulated water in its purest form, bending its very essence to her will. Ice, steam, mist, liquid—there was no distinction, no boundary. Shui Wushuang's defeat had made it clear. To her, the Frozen Cloud Arts were nothing more than fuel for her own mastery.
A thought crossed Xia Qingyue's mind as she steadied her breathing.
If I win this fight, I will face her next… What will she do against me? What kind of tricks will she use?
For the first time in her life, she was uncertain.
But that only fueled her determination. To win this as she will be the one challenging Unohana Retsu and she will win. Finally, she will challenge him.
Xiao Kuanglei's words, filled with unwavering determination, hung in the air without a single response from Xia Qingyue. Both of them had their own reasons to win this match, but her demeanor remained as calm as a still lake, her clear, cold eyes unshaken—tranquil, yet as radiant as the bright moon.
For a moment, Xiao Kuanglei found himself caught in their mesmerizing depths. She was veiled, but her eyes were exposed—clear as day, sharp as ice.
His heartbeat quickened.
What kind of beauty lies beneath that veil…?
He forcefully shook off the thought, inhaling sharply as his profound strength surged. The storm surrounding him intensified, its violent winds howling louder. Behind him, the shadow of a great hawk grew more defined—no longer just an illusion, but on the verge of manifesting into reality.
"Extreme Wind Sword!"
With a flicker of light in his eyes, Xiao Kuanglei's storm-infused body shot forward. His speed was a blur—like a tempest unleashed, leaving only a wisp of an afterimage behind. To profound practitioners below the Earth Profound Realm, he might as well have vanished, flashing through the arena like a bolt of lightning.
From the stands, Ling Yun observed the fight intently. But more than the battle itself, his gaze lingered on Xia Qingyue's ethereal presence. Her beauty reminded him of the goddesses within the Blue Wind Imperial Palace—icons of purity and modesty. Yet, as his thoughts drifted, another figure surfaced in his mind.
Unohana Retsu and the mysterious black goddess, Mio.
Unlike Xia Qingyue, whose lower face was veiled, Retsu concealed herself entirely beneath layers of her kimono. Not a single inch of her skin had been exposed—not in battle, not even in the heat of combat. It was as if she guarded something far beyond mere appearance, as though the truest form of beauty, one powerful enough to topple nations, was deliberately kept hidden. Not even her face entirely revealed since it was covered with the same veiled hat wore by Mio, Nemu and Yoru when they were outside.
Only her hands, pale and graceful, had ever been seen. And the strands of her long, braided hair that trailed beneath her veiled hat.
"Looks like Third Younger Brother is getting serious—to actually display his fastest speed right from the start. I wonder if he can win this," Xiao Kuangyu muttered, his expression tense.
Xiao Juetian slowly nodded, a trace of approval flickering in his eyes. "Lei'er has taken our advice to heart. He didn't underestimate his opponent, nor did he hold back. Very good. After this battle, he will face that Unohana Retsu… Since Princess Cang Yue couldn't defeat her, winning against her is nearly impossible. But for now, let's display the full strength of our Xiao Sect in this match!"
Despite his confident words, an undercurrent of unease gripped Xiao Juetian.
Lei'er is surrounded by members of the Blue Wind Imperial Family…
If he won, he would secure Xiao Sect's place in the top four. Even if he lost, there was still a chance to claim fourth place through the losing bracket. But should he fall here…
His next match would be against Cang Yue.
Her recent performance had shocked the entire arena, revealing power that surpassed expectations with her new cultivation. If Lei'er lost to her as well, he wouldn't just drop to fifth or sixth—he could plummet to seventh or even eighth, depending on his performance. That would be a disaster.
For generations, the Xiao Sect, Burning Heaven Clan, Heavenly Sword Villa, and Frozen Cloud Asgard had dominated the top four rankings. Now, their proud legacy stood at the edge of a cliff.
The humiliation would be unbearable.
It was already bad enough that the Burning Heaven Clan had been disgraced, their reputation shattered after failing to even reach the round of 32. Yet unlike Cang Yue, who had earned admiration despite her defeat, they had gained nothing but scorn.
If the Xiao Sect suffered the same fate…
They wouldn't just be ridiculed.
They would be forgotten.
Under the storm-like high-speed movement, Xiao Kuanglei's sword swept forward in a deadly arc. The swirling storm engulfed the blade, amplifying its force as four powerful sword gusts, sharp enough to tear through mountains and stone, shot toward Xia Qingyue with terrifying speed.
In response, four ice lotuses bloomed in the air before her, their petals shimmering with profound cold energy. The sword gusts clashed against them, shattering upon impact into a flurry of frozen shards. Yet, Xiao Kuanglei used this moment of distraction to close the distance, his figure blurring as he unleashed a relentless storm of sword strikes—each blow flowing like a torrential downpour, seeking to overwhelm Xia Qingyue.
But she remained unfazed.
With each retreating step, she moved with ethereal grace, as if gliding effortlessly across the battlefield. Each time her foot touched the ground, a beautiful ice lotus blossomed beneath her, leaving behind an icy trail in her wake. Her movements were not just elegant—they were calculated, controlled, and completely unshaken by Xiao Kuanglei's aggressive assault.
The battle raged on, a fierce clash between raging winds and tranquil ice.
The Frozen Cloud Asgard disciples whispered among themselves, their voices laced with both admiration and unease as they observed the ongoing match.
"How astonishing," one of the senior disciples murmured. "Sister Xia is only at the eighth level of the Spirit Profound Realm, yet she has already mastered the fourth stage of the Ice Lotus Realm. Mu Lingxue from the previous tournament was at the tenth level and could barely glimpse the entrance of the Ice Lotus Realm. Without a doubt, Sister Xia must be the most talented disciple in decades."
"But isn't she still at a disadvantage?" another disciple questioned. "She's purely on the defensive, focusing all her efforts on warding off Xiao Kuanglei's attacks without striking back. The gap in profound strength and experience is obvious. If even she struggles, what would happen if Unohana Retsu were to face Xiao Kuanglei using her waterbending?"
"Nonsense," a third disciple scoffed. "Did you already forget how she defeated Xiao Nan? She countered his strength without even using her waterbending. What makes Xiao Kuanglei any different? Besides, even Princess Cang Yue, at full power, couldn't faze her."
The murmurs grew as the realization dawned upon them.
"If Sister Xia wins this match… she will have to face her next, won't she?"
"The Seventh and Sixth Arts weren't enough to defeat Unohana Retsu. Can Sister Xia make a difference?"
"She's mastered the Ice Lotus Realm… perhaps that will be enough?"
"I don't know…" another whispered hesitantly. "She's facing someone who has mastered the true laws of water. Against that… it's uncertain."
Their eyes flickered with a mix of hope and apprehension as they continued watching the battle unfold.
The Blue Wind Imperial Family's seating area was unusually silent as Retsu watched the match unfold with sharp focus. Her usual calm demeanor remained unchanged, but her lips curled into a small smirk. Mio, Kon, and the others beside her were also watching intently, fascinated by the unexpected intensity of the battle.
Normally, Xia Qingyue would freeze her opponent with minimal effort, leaving them immobilized before swiftly delivering the finishing blow. Yet now, she was utilizing more movement, adapting her strategy instead of simply relying on her ice techniques.
"Ufufu… This girl has some skill," Retsu commented, her voice carrying a mix of amusement and interest.
On the arena, the hawk's image behind Xiao Kuanglei spread its wings wide, his sword slashing with relentless ferocity. His single longsword created dazzling mirages in the air, moving so quickly it seemed as if countless blades were attacking from every direction at once. The overlapping illusions of both his body and sword created a mesmerizing display that made it difficult for the audience to follow his movements.
The deafening clashes of storm and ice echoed throughout the arena as cyan-colored sword gusts and shattered ice lotuses filled the space around them. Despite Xiao Kuanglei's astonishing speed, Xia Qingyue's movements remained as light as a drifting cloud, her presence ethereal as if she were a goddess descending gracefully into battle. She seemed completely unfazed, weaving through his rapid strikes with effortless elegance.
Their every step left deep sword marks and pit-like craters on the stone surface, a testament to the sheer intensity of their battle.
The entire audience was silent, their gazes locked onto the two figures clashing in the Sword Discourse Arena. Many had expected this match to end quickly, perhaps even in an overwhelming victory for one side. Yet to their shock, the battle was evenly matched despite the three-year age gap and one-rank difference in profound strength.
The expressions of the Xiao Sect members darkened with each passing moment. What should have been an easy victory was turning into an intense, evenly matched battle, and the sect elders were beginning to realize they had underestimated Xia Qingyue.
Xiao Juetian's brows furrowed deeply as he watched the fight unfold. His voice was low but heavy with realization. "It seems we have underestimated Xia Qingyue. Her strength may not be weaker than Shui Wushuang and Wu Xuexin at all. Is it possible she is close to Princess Cang Yue's level?"
"Close?" Xiao Kuangyu nearly scoffed, though his tone was tinged with worry. "Father, are you saying her strength is close to the pinnacle of the Earth Profound Realm? No, that can't be! If that were true, she would be close to Ling Yun's level, and there's no way she could defeat him. She definitely can't defeat Princess Cang Yue. If Third Younger Brother uses the Earth Shocking Sword, this match will be over in an instant."
Xiao Juetian remained quiet for a moment, contemplating. "Using the Earth Shocking Sword would be somewhat inelegant and unethical. Right now, they appear evenly matched, but if this continues, Lei'er still holds the advantage. No matter what, his profound strength is richer and deeper than that of a seventeen-year-old girl."
His words were meant to reassure himself as much as his sect. However, deep inside, he wasn't so sure anymore. Xia Qingyue's movements were precise, and her profound energy control was remarkable. She had been conserving her strength, and if she had yet to reveal her full power, then Xiao Kuanglei might not hold the advantage for much longer.
==================
"Go, Big Sis, go!" Xia Yuanba shouted excitedly, his hands clenched into tight fists as sweat dripped from his palms. Seated next to him in the Blue Wind Imperial Family seating zone, Mai smiled at his enthusiasm while keeping her gaze fixed on the match.
"Don't worry, your Big Sis won't lose that easily," Mai said casually, attempting to ease his nervousness.
Cang Yue, seated beside Xue Ling and Lin Yueru, remained silent, her expression thoughtful. She was already considering the possibility of facing the loser of this match in the upcoming round. Would it be Xia Qingyue or Xiao Kuanglei?
"Hmph." A scoffing sound echoed in Yun Che's mind as Jasmine's soul form materialized, resting on Retsu's shoulder like a tiny doll. Her crimson eyes glowed with calmness. "That woman has no chance of losing. If she used her full strength, the match would've ended in five moves. She's deliberately holding back to conceal her true abilities."
Yun Che nodded, already aware of the truth.
Seeing his reaction, Retsu's lips curled into a teasing smirk. "Yuu-kun, you seem certain that Xia Qingyue isn't going all out. You must know more about her than the rest of us. Care to share?"
Yun Che arched a brow. "You seem particularly interested in her."
"Ufufu… more like curious." Retsu chuckled softly. "She is your wife, after all. And my opponent."
"I'm curious too, Danna-sama," Mio added, her gaze sharp with intrigue.
Yun Che sighed, realizing they wouldn't let this go. "Might be easier if I just pull up her system status." He accessed the system's interface and projected Xia Qingyue's information before them. Due to the system's notification, they kept their conversation with the Tenteikura limited to Yun Che, Jasmine, Retsu and Mio.
------------------------
[Xia Qingyue]
[Age: 17]
[Level: 38 - Eight Level of Spirit Profound Realm (Suppressed)]
[Affiliation: Frozen Cloud Asgard – Young Asgard Mistress]
[Laws: Water (Ice)]
------------------------
"Suppressed?" Retsu and Mio spoke simultaneously through their Tenteikura.
Jasmine, who had seen the notification, nodded. Her suspicion had been correct. Yun Che also nodded, his expression calm and unsurprised—it was exactly as he had expected.
"Then, what is her full strength?" Retsu asked, her curiosity piqued.
Yun Che sighed before explaining, "Back when we met in Floating Cloud City during our wedding, her strength showed as the tenth level of the Elementary Profound Realm."
"But that wasn't her true level, was it?" Mio asked, already suspecting the truth.
"Right." Yun Che nodded. "In this world, she might be the fastest when it comes to leveling up. She was deliberately suppressing her power. In Floating Cloud City, someone at the tenth level of the Elementary Profound Realm was already considered a true hidden genius. If she had revealed her real strength, she would've been labeled a 'Heavenly Genius' because of how absurd her growth rate was. Imagine a fifteen-year-old possessing that kind of power."
Retsu's gaze sharpened. "Then, what was her actual level when you met her?"
Yun Che smirked. "Take a guess."
Mio tilted her head in thought. "Nascent Profound Realm?"
Yun Che shook his head.
Retsu's eyes widened slightly as she spoke with certainty, "True Profound Realm."
"Righto." Yun Che nodded. "Grand Perfection of True Profound Realm."
"Sugoi! She reached level 30 by the age of fifteen… without any system assistance?" Retsu's eyes gleamed with astonishment.
"I know, right? I was just as shocked when I first found out." Yun Che chuckled, recalling how he had originally read about it.
Mio's curiosity deepened. "Then… what is her level now?"
With a single thought, Yun Che removed the suppression reading from the system. The numbers shifted, revealing Xia Qingyue's true level in its entirety.
-----------------
[Level: 60 – Grand Perfection Sky Profound Realm.]
-----------------
"Grand Perfection Sky Profound Realm… She's at the same level as us?" Retsu mused, her tone filled with intrigue.
"Purely Grand Perfection Sky Profound Realm. That girl is indeed impressive," Mio nodded in agreement. The thought that Xia Qingyue had cultivated to such heights purely on her own was astonishing. No system, no shortcuts—she was a woman truly blessed by the heavens themselves.
"Demo…" Retsu's voice echoed through their link. "She must have some kind of secret power, right? It took several System Pills to level up Little Yue. Nemu needed multiple cores and a ton of experience points just to reach the True Profound Realm, and even then, it took her more than two weeks—with the system doing all the work. But Qingyue… she did all of this completely on her own?"
Yun Che remained silent for a moment before nodding. Then, without a word, he pressed on her Special Skills tab and expanded it.
Mio and Retsu's eyes widened in shock as the information revealed itself before them.
----------------------
[Nine Profound Exquisite Body]
[Description: The Nine Profound Exquisite Body, also known as the Nine Mystical Exquisite Body, grants the user a unique "small world" within their body. This allows them to contain and wield far more power than their cultivation realm would typically permit. No matter what Profound Art they practice, they can cultivate it to any level without being limited by their current cultivation. Additionally, this rare physique can be transferred to another through the exchange of Vital Yin. At its current stage, the user can hold power up to five times that of an average genius.]
------------------------------------
"Sugoi…" Retsu murmured in amazement. A human like Xia Qingyue, without any external assistance from a system, was blessed with such an extraordinary physique. A body capable of holding immense power, unrestricted by cultivation limitations, and able to master any laws she desired—no wonder she had cultivated the Ice Lotus Realm to such a high level.
"In other words, she possesses a body that allows her to bypass normal requirements and limitations, letting her master any profound art with ease. Not only that, but she can also store far more power than the average cultivator," Jasmine explained.
"Five times the power of an average genius?" Mio asked curiously.
Yun Che nodded. "At peak Sky Profound Realm, an average cultivator can hold around 6,000 MP. A genius might reach seven to eight thousand. But Qingyue? With her physique, she can store at least 35,000 MP at her current level—and that will only increase as she grows stronger. Eventually, she could even hold ten times that amount."
Retsu smirked, shaking her head in disbelief. "So she has an absurdly high energy capacity, can cultivate any law or profound art to perfection, and levels up at an incredible pace… It's almost like she has a system, just like us."
"What does it mean by 'passing on to others through Vital Yin'?" Mio asked curiously.
Jasmine answered without hesitation. "It means that if a man takes her Vital Yin, she can transfer all the profound energy she has accumulated to him, effectively increasing his power limit."
Retsu's eyes widened as realization hit her. "Wait… so if you had consummated your marriage back then…" She trailed off, recalling Yun Che's wedding to Xia Qingyue two years ago.
Yun Che let out a sheepish smile. "If I had, I could've gained a similar energy core as hers, increasing my power limit as well. But because I have the system, the effect would be even greater—I wouldn't just absorb any of her cultivated power, but I'd also be able to develop a 'small world' of my own instead of absorbing any power she possesses, effectively granting me my own Nine Mystical Exquisite Body while allowing her to keep her power, her own small world and her own mystique body."
Mio's expression turned serious. "And if a normal man took her first time?"
"Then she'd lose that small world entirely," Yun Che said solemnly. "Her profound energy capacity would drop to that of an average genius, and she'd never be able to cultivate the way she does now. All the power she painstakingly built up would be gone. For someone like her, marriage could've been the worst fate imaginable if she ended up with the wrong person."
Jasmine scoffed. "Well, she married you, didn't she? If anything, she's lucky she didn't end up with some random guy who would've ruined her potential."
"But… is that body truly that rare, Jasmine-san?" Retsu asked, curiosity flickering in her eyes.
Jasmine crossed her arms, her expression unreadable. "I can't say for certain. But I do know this—" she began.
"When someone with the Nine Profound Exquisite Body has a low profound cultivation, their profound energy manifests in a unique, free-flowing state. It's an unmistakable trait, easily recognized by those who know what to look for. If their released profound energy can defy realm boundaries, even slightly, then there's no doubt—they possess the Nine Profound Exquisite Body."
She paused before continuing, her tone shifting slightly. "However, as their profound energy grows richer, this distinct characteristic weakens. And once they step into the divine way… it vanishes completely. That's why finding someone with this body in the higher realms is nearly impossible—it's like searching for a shadow that's already disappeared."
Jasmine's gaze sharpened as she glanced toward the arena. "That's why, if one were to search for it… the lower realms would be the best place to start."
Her voice lowered, almost as if speaking to herself. "Still, I never expected to find it here… on that woman. Coincidently, his wife. Could it be why he married her in the first place?"
Yun Che exhaled. "She doesn't even know about this yet… And the scariest part? Even without my help, this body of hers will eventually unlock all 54 of her profound entrances on its own. I just smoothed her path to be what she was meant to be."
"Meant to be, huh?" Jasmine eyed Yun Che suspiciously. "You don't even look surprised that such a body exists. Almost like… you already knew."
Yun Che averted his gaze, scratching the back of his head. Jasmine was sharp—too sharp.
"Kind of? Ahem… Moving on…" He quickly deflected. "The body alone isn't enough. It won't reach its full potential without the right state of mind. There's another reason why Qingyue is considered a heavenly genius. And it's because of this."
Jasmine narrowed her eyes, her suspicion deepening. He knew. He knew everything from the start. But Yun Che played it cool, ignoring her scrutinizing gaze.
Instead, he pulled up the next tab.
The moment the screen flickered to life, Retsu and Mio's eyes widened in shock.
------------------------
[Heart of Snow Glazed Glass]
[Description: Bestows the user with a rare and extraordinary mind—one of unparalleled comprehension, clarity, and purity. Over time, the user's soul grows ever stronger, becoming increasingly attuned to the forces of good and evil, sensing danger with ease, and unraveling mysteries with a natural gift. Their ability to see into the hearts of all living things becomes almost prophetic.]
[Once awakened, the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass will bring profound transformation. Power, wisdom, and vision evolve in ways that seem inexplicable to ordinary minds. The speed of growth becomes inconceivably rapid, leaving others in awe. No longer bound by weakness, hesitation, or confusion, the user will rise beyond anyone's expectations, their clarity of mind and purpose unshakable.]
-------------------------
"This is…." Retsu murmured, eyes widening in realization. To achieve complete calmness, perceive good and evil with clarity—Xia Qingyue was destined to become a being of extraordinary strength and wisdom. With both the Nine Profound Exquisite Body and the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass, she wasn't just talented—she was designed to stand at the pinnacle of this world.
"I know, right?" Yun Che shrugged, as if it was no big deal. "A mind that grasps everything effortlessly. Unshaken, clear, and precise. She has an eidetic memory, remains unnaturally calm, and can suppress her own fears and anxieties. On top of that, she can see through people, discerning good from evil with terrifying accuracy."
"It's like the Gamer's Mind," Mio mused, drawing a comparison to their own system's mental fortitude.
"Yeah, something similar—but the system says Gamer's Mind is still a crude version," Yun Che replied. "Once we hit the Divine Level, it'll evolve into something even greater."
Jasmine narrowed her eyes. "Then why didn't she see you? The real you. All of you."
Yun Che paused for a moment before answering. "Because we're protected by the system. Even a fully awakened Heart of Snow Glazed Glass can't break through its defenses. If it weren't for that, she'd definitely be able to see Yachiru and Hoyuu."
"Then… wouldn't that mean Shin Yue and Yuyun could still be detected by her?" Mio wondered aloud.
Yun Che considered it but shook his head. "I doubt it. Xuyi likely used the Apple's power to shield Little Yue's mind and heart when she developed the Moon World and Yin Lunar Body. That means she probably has protection against advanced perception abilities like this one. Remember, she used the Apple along with the energy of this world to forge that new body. Who knows… Little Yue will even evolve her Yin Lunar Ultimate Body someday."
"Wait… doesn't this mean she can learn Waterbending?" Retsu asked, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "With those special gifts, it'd probably be easy for her."
"I doubt it," Yun Che replied, shaking his head. "Waterbending requires extreme precision and absolute control of Haki to even attempt. But… once she awakens her Haki, then yeah, it won't take long for her to master it since she had her unique body. Not as powerful or cheating like Instant Mastery of the System but she can get the job done faster."
Jasmine crossed her arms, exhaling sharply. "Little Yue has the Yin Lunar Ultimate Body, and Xia Qingyue has the Nine Profound Exquisite Body. Both of them are linked to you… You really have a knack for attracting the strongest women, huh?"
"It's not like I asked for it," Yun Che sighed. "They're milestone girls set by the System—meant to be obtained at all costs." He suddenly paused, his eyes narrowing. "Wait… Little Yue? You're calling Cang Yue 'Little Yue' now? Not 'that woman'?"
Jasmine shot him a glare. "I took a liking to that Little Yue because of Xuyi. Don't get any funny ideas."
Yun Che smirked. "Riiight… that's definitely why you saved her back in the Sanctuary."
Retsu and Mio giggled, their laughter only fueling Jasmine's irritation.
"Say one more word…" Jasmine's voice was dangerously low.
"I get it, I get it—you bust my balls," Yun Che said, throwing his hands up in mock surrender.
"I was actually going to say kill you, but that works too," Jasmine mused with a smirk.
Retsu leaned back, folding her arms as she spoke in her heart, The Nine Mystical Exquisite Body… This will be interesting. I want to see if she's truly worthy of Yuu-kun. If not… having such a divine gift would be completely wasted on her.
"That aside…" Jasmine's gaze sharpened. "Not only does she possess the Heavenly God's Spiritual Veins, with all fifty-four profound entrances opened because of you, but she also has the Heart of Snow Glazed Glass—a state of mind so rare that it only appears once in a million years. That alone is already beyond extraordinary." She paused, her expression unreadable.
"But her Nine Profound Exquisite Body?" Jasmine scoffed. "Even in the Realm of the Gods, that kind of constitution only appears once every ten thousand years. And yet… she was born with both. She's not just blessed by the heavens—she's practically favored by them. Just like you. If she possesses two divine gifts, then you have the System… And now? You're married to her."
Her words hung in the air before she shifted her focus back to the match.
Yun Che exhaled quietly, his thoughts racing. A talent born once every ten thousand years, with a mind that appears once in a million… Yeah, she's blessed alright. But that doesn't mean I'll let her follow the original timeline. His eyes gleamed with resolve.
She already followed the script in the original world…
Not this time.
======================
The battle on the Sword Discourse Arena had reached a fever pitch. Behind Xiao Kuanglei, the hawk-shaped aura spread its wings once more. With a sharp whistle, his body vaulted high into the air, cutting through the turbulent atmosphere.
Like a boiling tempest, the profound storm surrounding him surged wildly. Rings of cyan energy rippled outward, forcefully displacing the air itself. Then, with unwavering focus, he angled his longsword downward, channeling every ounce of his profound energy into its tip.
In an instant, a blinding green radiance erupted from the blade. A ferocious storm coiled around the sword's tip, swirling at terrifying speed. Its sheer force blanketed the entire arena in oppressive pressure, making the spectators at the edge of the platform feel as if their breaths were being stolen away.
For what felt like an eternity, neither fighter relented. The clash remained at a deadlock, their strengths evenly matched.
But patience had its limits.
Xiao Kuanglei's frustration finally broke through, yet he still refrained from drawing the Earth Shocking Sword. As Xiao Juetian had warned, wielding the Xiao Sect's most powerful weapon against someone younger and of supposedly lesser cultivation would be seen as dishonorable—perhaps even laughable. Should he win, he will use it on Unohana Retsu.
Instead, he made his decision.
His strongest technique.
His ultimate move.
"Fleeting Strike!!"
With a thunderous cry, Xiao Kuanglei descended like a divine sword incarnate, his body merging with the storm itself. The overwhelming force of his blade tore through the air, locking onto Xia Qingyue—a lethal strike that would determine the battle's outcome.
"Oh? I didn't expect Third Younger Brother to cultivate 'Fleeting Strike' to this level… Could it be around forty percent attained?" Xiao Kuangyu remarked, a note of surprise in his voice.
"This is a recent breakthrough of his," Xiao Juetian responded, a victorious smile already forming on his lips. "The match is about to end."
Yet, despite his confidence, a shadow of doubt lingered in his mind. He had witnessed yesterday's battle between Cang Yue and Unohana Retsu—a fight that shattered expectations and the arena. The raw power displayed in that clash was beyond anything the Xiao Sect had ever seen. Fleeting Strike was a move their sect had always revered, but compared to Dracule Mihawk's sword techniques, its might was utterly dwarfed.
Yesterday, Cang Yue's full-powered sword strike had been ten times stronger than Fleeting Strike at its peak.
Even if his son won today… Even if he wielded the Earth Shocking Sword…
There was one undeniable truth.
Against the mysterious swordswoman, Unohana Retsu—he would stand no chance.
Yun Che sighed as he observed the fight. Fleeting Strike again. He had seen this technique far too many times, and each time, it was nothing but a disappointment. From the New Moon Palace Banquet to battles against sect elders—every execution of Fleeting Strike had been underwhelming.
In the end, it was simply an enhanced stab technique—one that shouldn't even be locked behind cultivation barriers. And yet, Xiao Kuanglei was burning forty percent of his strength just to perform it.
As Xiao Kuanglei's sword force plummeted toward Xia Qingyue, the ground beneath him fractured, sending fissures racing outward. The sheer pressure of his descent was suffocating, his blade like a divine executioner's judgment.
And yet—
Xia Qingyue stood there, utterly serene.
With effortless grace, she raised her delicate hand, lifting her ice-forged sword.
Above its tip, an ice lotus slowly bloomed in the air.
But this was no ordinary ice lotus.
No longer was it merely a crystalline flower—it shimmered with a deep, sky-blue radiance, its presence commanding the battlefield with silent, chilling authority.
BOOM!
The moment Xiao Kuanglei's Fleeting Strike collided with Xia Qingyue's ice lotus, a thunderous explosion erupted across the arena. The cyan storm of profound energy engulfed the battlefield, clashing violently with the blossoming frost. Ice shards rained down like celestial fragments, mist swirling in the air, completely obscuring both fighters from view.
For a breathless moment, the crowd could only hear the furious collision of profound energy—two forces battling for dominance within the storm of light and frost.
Ten breaths passed.
Slowly, the cyan and sky-blue radiance dissipated, revealing both combatants. Their swords had met in a final clash before they retreated, each landing gracefully on opposite ends of the arena.
Xia Qingyue stood serene and untouched. Not a single wrinkle marred her flowing white robes, nor was there even a speck of dust upon her. The ethereal ice spirits that drifted around her remained undisturbed, as if the battle had never happened. Her clear, tranquil eyes betrayed no sign of strain—only quiet, unwavering calm.
Xiao Kuanglei, however, was not so composed. Though uninjured, his hair was slightly disheveled, and his expression betrayed his disbelief. He had never expected such an outcome. His ultimate move—one he had only recently mastered—had been neutralized entirely. Not a single strand of Xia Qingyue's hair had been touched.
The shock of it settled in his heart like a heavy stone. And with it, a deep sense of humiliation.
For the spectators, this clash—though intense—was nothing compared to the duel they had witnessed the day before.
Cang Yue vs. Unohana Retsu.
That battle had shattered the arena's defensive barriers, forcing the outer shield that protected the audience to activate—and even crack under the sheer force of a single exchange. The lingering energy that dispersed into the air had been enough to shake the very foundation of the coliseum.
By comparison, this match felt... underwhelming.
Realization struck Xiao Kuanglei like a blade to the chest.
If he wanted to win and enter the top four—if he wanted to prove himself—there was no other choice.
He would have to draw the Earth Shocking Sword.
"As expected of Fairy Xia from Frozen Cloud Asgard," Xiao Kuanglei said, his voice steady despite the weight of the battle. "You truly cannot be underestimated. I admit, I misjudged you—just as I misjudged the Blue Wind Imperial Family.
"But this match… I must win. I have to enter the top four. You understand, don't you? We are the last remaining contenders of our sects. If I have offended you in any way, Fairy Xia, I will offer my apologies—after the match."
As he finished speaking, Xiao Kuanglei sheathed his sword and reached toward his spatial ring. He was just about to draw the Earth Shocking Sword—his last resort.
But the moment his fingers touched his left hand, his entire body froze.
His expression stiffened, and his complexion drained of color with startling speed. His breath hitched. His eyes widened in confusion. Then—like a statue of ice losing its balance—he collapsed, falling backward onto the cold ground.
The arena fell silent.
Xia Qingyue's expression remained unchanged. She didn't flinch. She didn't even seem surprised.
And then—it happened.
In an instant, dozens of wounds burst open across Xiao Kuanglei's body. Blood erupted in crimson arcs, painting the ground beneath him. The crowd gasped in shock.
But these wounds—every single one of them—had already been there.
Xia Qingyue's ice sword had cut him over thirty times during their exchange. Yet under the chilling embrace of the Frozen Cloud Art, each wound had been instantly sealed with ice. He had felt no pain. No bleeding. No sign of injury.
Completely unaware, he had continued fighting—facing her, striking, defending—never realizing that his body had already been sliced apart.
And had any of those wounds been slightly off course, they would have severed his life veins.
He had died more than thirty times in the last ten breaths of battle.
The only reason he still breathed was because Xia Qingyue had shown mercy.
Ling Wugou was startled at first. Then, he quickly advanced forward and examined Xiao Kuanglei's current condition. After a simple investigation, he breathed a sigh of relief. With a flip of his palm, every wound on Xiao Kuanglei's body was completely sealed. Soon afterwards, he immediately declared: "Xiao Kuanglei has temporarily lost the ability to move, Frozen Cloud Asgard's Xia Qingyue wins! She shall advance into tomorrow's Semifinals!"
------------
Yun Che, Retsu, and Mio saw it clearly.
Xia Qingyue wasn't simply defending—she was manipulating the ice lotuses into delivering precise, bladed strikes. The delicate snowflakes drifting through the air were not just for show; they moved in a deliberate pattern, like razor-sharp petals weaving an intricate web around Xiao Kuanglei.
She was attacking the entire time.
Masking her strikes within the swirling frost, she orchestrated a silent, relentless assault—targeting him from all angles while ensuring that none of her strikes hit his vitals. To an ordinary cultivator, it was imperceptible. But to Yun Che and Retsu, it was obvious.
Even Little Fairy was taken aback. She had to use Observation Haki to even perceive the hidden strikes. She wondered if non-haki users could perceive these attacks. It was eerily reminiscent of Cang Yue's swordplay she saw during the first day.
If Xia Qingyue had used this against Haki users like them, they would have easily detected and countered it. But against a normal opponent like Xiao Kuanglei? It was an unseen execution—a death sentence disguised as a snowstorm.
Beneath the constant clashing of blades, she had already won.
Her technique bore similarities to Cang Yue's Totsugeki Technique and the Shinigami's Senka or Flash Blossom—a style that overwhelmed opponents from every direction, striking so swiftly that they never even realized they had been hit.
Yun Che recalled how Cang Yue once humiliated an opponent, cutting through her clothes without drawing blood. If she had wanted to kill, she would have.
Xia Qingyue was doing the same.
Each silent slash was immediately sealed in ice, the wounds concealed beneath a thin layer of frost. She repeated this process over and over. Ten seconds later… the ice would melt.
And when it did—blood would bloom.
She had been showing mercy all along.
--------------------
All six members of Xiao Sect had risen to their feet, their faces frozen in shock. Like a furious eagle, Xiao Juetian soared toward the Sword Discourse Arena, his profound energy sweeping over Xiao Kuanglei the moment he arrived.
His expression darkened.
Just as Yun Che had observed from afar, Xiao Kuanglei's body was riddled with thirty precise cuts. But the true devastation lay deeper—cold energy had seeped into his profound veins. Xia Qingyue had prolonged the battle, ensuring the ice remained dormant until it melted, releasing the suppressed blood all at once. The crowd had witnessed his wounds suddenly reopening, but what left them truly baffled was his abrupt collapse—stiff, motionless, paralyzed.
The ice had not only sealed his movements. It had severed the flow of his profound energy, rendering him completely helpless until he could fully recover.
The audience erupted into heated debates.
Xia Qingyue turned her gaze toward the Blue Wind Imperial Family's seating area.
She had won. But tomorrow…
Tomorrow, her opponent would be Unohana Retsu.
Could she defeat her?
The answer was uncertain. But one thing was clear—if the situation demanded it, she would unleash everything. Every ounce of power she possessed.
Because Unohana Retsu was not just some opponent.
She was one of his teammates. Someone he cared about. Moreover, even she might be unleashed more of her tricks should she faced Cang Yue as the princess is also someone even she might think twice of facing.
And that alone meant she could not afford to underestimate her.
Xiao Juetian cast a deep, unreadable look at Xia Qingyue before speaking in a low voice—low enough for only her to hear. Not knowing Yun Che already picked up his words with his Haki.
"I had thought Frozen Cloud Asgard would not make another excessive display in this tournament… It seems I was mistaken. To have infused so much cold energy into Lei'er's body—without him even realizing it—your mastery of the Frozen Cloud Arts must be at least the fifth stage.
"It's fortunate he did not draw the Earth Shocking Sword… If he had, he would have lost even more miserably."
"Hoo… she stopped him from drawing that sword. In her own way… or did she?" Yun Che mused.
"Ufufu… masking her slashes within the snowstorm, cutting him apart, and sealing the wounds with ice—playing with him until the moment his body betrays him," Retsu observed, already dissecting the technique.
"Would it even matter if he used a stronger sword? She already has enough power to crush him. It's pointless even if he had the sword or not." Mio sighed.
"More than enough," Yun Che agreed, "but she doesn't want to reveal too much before tomorrow's fight." His eyes narrowed. "She has her reasons."
Retsu nodded, understanding. Xia Qingyue had only shown her true skill to those capable of seeing it—herself and Yun Che.
"If she's trying to hide something," Retsu murmured, "then tomorrow, she'll have no choice but to reveal it."
Without another word, Xiao Juetian lifted his immobilized disciple and left the Sword Discourse Arena. With it, the next display of names shows on the Profound Display.
----------------
Losing Category Match one
Xiao Sect - Xiao Kuanglei ---------versus----------- Blue Wind Imperial Family – Cang Yue
-------------------
The Top Eight Losing Matches are conducted before the main match of Semi Finals tomorrow. To determine one who will take the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth.
"The winner will challenge the victor of the second losing match to determine fifth place." Ling Wugou's voice echoed through the arena.
Whispers rippled through the crowd.
"He's done for. There's no way he can defeat the princess."
"A ninth-rank Spirit Profound Realm against the Peak Earth Profound Realm Princess Cang Yue? He'd have to be dreaming. Even the princess didn't have the heart to go all out."
"Might as well bet on the obvious winner."
"Might as well give up now."
Mockery filled the air before the losing match even began.
The Xiao Sect elders—Xiao Wuji, Xiao Mojun, and their patriarch, Xiao Juetian—stood frozen in disbelief. Their only hope, Xiao Kuanglei, had been thoroughly defeated by the rising, dazzling beauty of Frozen Cloud Asgard. With that loss, their sect was officially kicked out of the tournament's top four.
This was the worst year they had ever faced.
They had already lost their Grand and Great Elders. Now, they had lost their honor in the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament.
Even if they aimed for fifth place, they would have to go through Princess Cang Yue. And against her? It was as if they had already lost before the fight even began.
"We lost." Xiao Juetian gritted his teeth, his fists clenched in frustration. His own son's defeat was a public slap to his face.
Xiao Wuji let out a long sigh. He had thought that a ninth-level Spirit Profound Realm practitioner like Xiao Kuanglei was an impressive display of strength. But now, after witnessing the sheer dominance of Cang Yue, Unohana Retsu, and Yun Che, he realized the truth—
Even a Peak Spirit Profound Realm cultivator was meaningless before them.
They have to accept the loss. They could only hope the fight against Princess Cang Yue might be the fight they could at least have the face to come up and face her.
"Poor bastard, getting ridiculed the moment he lost," Kon sighed, shaking his head.
"I can't blame them," Mio said, exhaling. "Little Yue surpassed everyone in the arena when she revealed her true power—except for Danna-sama and Ret-chan."
Yun Che remained calm, watching the battlefield. "He wouldn't be able to defeat Xia Qingyue even if he poured everything he had."
Cang Yue turned to him, curiosity in her gaze. "You know how strong she is?"
Yun Che didn't answer immediately. Instead, his eyes locked onto the display.
"The moment of truth…."
The match that some had been eagerly waiting for was about to begin.
--------------
Semi Finals First Match
Frozen Cloud Asgard Xia Qingyue------versus-------Blue Wind Imperial Family – Unohana Retsu
--------------
"Shit… Qingyue versus Retsu."
Yun Che exhaled deeply, his gaze shifting to Retsu, who sat with an all-too-knowing smirk. She had been waiting for this. Waiting to test herself against Xia Qingyue—the woman who had unknowingly stolen the First Wife title from her.
He knew he couldn't just ask her to go easy.
Retsu had been anticipating this match for too long. She would respect his wishes and give Qingyue a fair fight, but how much would she hold back? And, more importantly, to what extent?
He just hoped she wouldn't hurt her too much.
This wasn't just another match.
It was a fight she desired from the very beginning. Ever since she learned Xia Qingyue is his wife…..
Xia Qingyue versus Unohana Retsu
The Wife versus the Fiancée.