The courtyard of the Wu clan buzzed with jubilation as guests mingled and exchanged lively conversations. The delightful scents of the banquet filled the air, blending with the sound of laughter that echoed off the stone walls. The excitement was palpable, with everyone eagerly anticipating the duels that were set to unfold that day.
Wu Zheng scanned the throngs of people, his sharp gaze taking in the festive scene. He noted the absence of his father, Wu Cheng, but felt no disappointment. For a Nascent Soul cultivator, these duels were trivial matters—merely a spectacle for the clan's lower-tier cultivators. Inside, he remained calm, though deliberately showing a hint of disappointed across his expression.
"Today, we have fifteen thrilling duels lined up!" a voice boomed, capturing the crowd's attention. The atmosphere intensified as the audience focused on the highlighted matches that had garnered the most buzz:
1. Wu Li, an eighth-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, was to face off against Wu Qiang, a ninth-stage competitor.
2. Wu Yao, the clan's talented female swordswoman, would duel Wu Xin, an experienced sixth-stage cultivator.
3. Wu Zheng was set to challenge Wu Ping, a sixth-stage Qi Condensation cultivator.
4. Lastly, Wu Jian, a fourth-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator, would fight Wu Wei, a formidable sixth-stage opponent.
Excitement rippled through the crowd as guests debated the outcomes, their voices rising in a cacophony of enthusiasm. Wu Rui stood at the front, exuding a calm demeanor that contrasted with the excitement swirling around him.
"Let the duels begin!" he declared, his voice steady. The first few matches unfolded with decent skill, but none were particularly eye-catching. The crowd remained entertained, but anticipation hung heavy in the air for the highlighted matches.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. "I present to you Wu Yao versus Wu Xin!" Wu Rui announced, his voice ringing through the courtyard.
As the two competitors entered the arena, Wu Zheng focused intently on Wu Yao. She drew her sword, her movements fluid and precise. With an elegant poise, she evaded Wu Xin's dual strikes, employing her Supervisory Movement Technique to outmaneuver him effortlessly.
In a stunning display of skill, Wu Yao dominated the duel, winning in just three swift moves. The crowd erupted into applause, their cheers echoing throughout the courtyard as Wu Yao bowed, acknowledging their admiration with humility.
"Did you see that? She's incredible!" exclaimed a nearby spectator, excitement radiating from him. "Her technique is unmatched!"
Wu Zheng remained composed, allowing only a hint of excitement to flicker in his eyes. Inside, however, he felt no thrill for Wu Yao's victory, despite their good relationship.
He glanced at Wu Rui, who maintained his calm demeanor but displayed a glint of surprise in his eyes, a testament to Wu Yao's progress in her combat technique since the last time he had observed her.
As the crowd's cheers began to subside, Wu Rui shifted the focus of the event. "Next up, we have Wu Li against Wu Qiang!" he announced, his voice steady, inviting the audience to heighten their anticipation.
Wu Li and Wu Qiang stepped into the arena, both competitors exuding determination. The crowd murmured, excitement buzzing as they observed the two combatants sizing each other up. The hearts of the crowd raced with anticipation. Would Wu Li, an eighth-stage cultivator, manage to win against the formidable Wu Qiang?
Tension thickened as the two faced each other, their expressions revealing nothing of their thoughts. Wu Rui glanced between them, gauging their readiness. "Ready?" he asked, his tone calm.
The crowd held its collective breath, the atmosphere thick with anticipation. "Begin!" Wu Rui called, the tension in the air palpable as the duel commenced.
Wu Zheng's focus sharpened as the duel began, his eyes keenly following every movement. The audience's reactions swelled, fueling the intensity of the match. He was aware that these duels were not just about skill but also about the pride of their clan. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for everyone involved.
As the first strikes were exchanged, Wu Zheng felt a surge of energy in the air. The excitement of the crowd reflected the electric atmosphere, and the audience was ready to witness a contest that would showcase the true capabilities of their clan's fighters.