The Sacred Sword Domain clashed with the Bloodsword Domain, their auras warring in a spectacular display of power. Within the vortex of this clash, Bai Yu and the Bloodsword Sect Vice Sect Master engaged in a whirlwind of strikes, their blades flashing a thousand times in a mere breath. The cavern walls shuddered under the relentless onslaught, cracks spiderwebbing across the ancient stone.
Across the battlefield, Elder Zhu and the Azure Sword Sect Vice Sect Master mirrored the destructive dance. The Azure Sword Sect leader bellowed, unleashing a torrent of attacks. "Thousand Sword Slashes!" he roared, his blade weaving a deadly pattern that shimmered with azure light.
Elder Zhu, eyes narrowed in concentration, countered with his own ultimate technique. "Vermilion Bird Cries at the Heavens!" he boomed, his fiery domain coalescing into a magnificent phoenix that soared through the air, its fiery cry echoing through the cavern.
Panic seized the bystanders as the cavern began to crumble. With a shared look of understanding, the four Law Domain Masters deactivated their domains, the air clearing of the oppressive energies. Realizing the danger of a collapsing cave, they all erupted outwards in a blur of speed, desperate to escape the impending doom.
Bai Yu flew side-by-side with Elder Zhu, both casting a harried glance back at their pursuing adversaries. A coordinated counterattack was needed. Elder Zhu unleashed "Vermilion Bird Cries at the Heavens" once more, the flaming phoenix engulfing their pursuers in a burst of scorching heat. Bai Yu, lacking a similar ultimate technique, channeled his power, condensing a terrifying sword qi in his hand. With a flick of his wrist, he launched the projectile, a streak of pure cutting energy, towards their enemies.
Caught off guard, the two Law Domain Masters scrambled to defend themselves. A thunderous boom resonated through the collapsing chamber as the attacks collided. The blinding flash and shockwave provided the perfect opportunity for Bai Yu and Elder Zhu. They vanished from sight, leaving their stunned adversaries amidst the dust and debris.
When the smoke cleared, the two pursuers emerged, bloodied but not severely injured. Their surprise was evident – their prey had eluded them. With a grim nod, they acknowledged defeat and made their escape from the collapsing Lost Star Cave.
Meanwhile, Bai Yu and Elder Zhu were already miles away, Elder Zhu's curiosity piqued. "Your clan first, Lord Bai?" he inquired. "Indeed," Bai Yu confirmed, a hint of pride in his voice. "Afterward, I will fulfill my promise and present you with the Spirit Flame."
Several hours later, they arrived above Blue Tempest Island. Lush greenery and the glistening ocean greeted them, a stark contrast to the desolate cave they'd just escaped. "This is your home?" Elder Zhu asked, a hint of awe in his voice.
"Yes," Bai Yu replied, a smile gracing his lips. As they descended towards the island, the Bai Clan Elders, alerted to their arrival, rushed out to greet them. "Greetings, Lord!" their voices boomed in unison.
Elder Zhu, witnessing this display of respect, couldn't help but be impressed. So he is a patriarch indeed, he thought, a glint of respect sparking in his eyes.