The days leading up to the sect competition were tense, the atmosphere within the Frost Moon Sect charged with anticipation. The once quiet outer sect grounds now buzzed with activity. Disciples moved about with renewed purpose, practicing techniques, refining their skills, and steeling themselves for the upcoming trials. For many, this competition represented a rare opportunity—a chance to rise from the ranks of the outer sect and into the prestigious inner sect.
For Lin Xue, however, it was more than just a competition. It was a stepping stone, a means to test her strength and refine her understanding of her abilities. Her goal had always been clear—to cultivate to the pinnacle of the world. The competition was merely another challenge on her path to ultimate power.
Lin Xue stood in the center of her private cultivation chamber, her slender figure wrapped in white and silver robes. The chamber itself was modest compared to those of the inner sect, but it suited her needs. The spiritual energy within was dense, cold like the ice that flowed through her veins. She sat cross-legged on the ground, her hands resting gently on her knees as she entered a deep meditative state.
With her eyes closed, she focused on her core, feeling the surge of Qi coursing through her meridians. The energy flowed like a river of ice and shadows, swirling around her in a protective vortex. She had been steadily advancing in her cultivation, having reached the peak of the Qi Condensation Realm. Now, only a few more steps remained before she could break through to the Foundation Building Realm. But Lin Xue wasn't in a rush. Her cultivation was like the elements she controlled—cold, patient, and unyielding.
As she meditated, the chamber seemed to grow colder, the air crystallizing with frost as her energy expanded. A knock on the door broke her focus. Her handmaiden, Han Mei, stepped inside, bowing respectfully.
"Mistress," Han Mei began softly, "the elders have announced the final preparations for the competition. It will begin tomorrow at dawn."
Lin Xue opened her eyes slowly, her gaze as sharp and cold as the ice she commanded. She nodded in acknowledgment but said nothing. Han Mei remained at the door, her expression filled with a mixture of awe and concern.
"Mistress, forgive me, but…" Han Mei hesitated, biting her lip nervously. "The other disciples have been talking. They say Xu Tian is certain of his victory. He… he plans to challenge you."
Lin Xue's lips curled into a faint, cold smile. "Xu Tian," she said, the name rolling off her tongue with disdain. "He believes himself invincible."
"He is powerful," Han Mei whispered, her voice barely audible. "But he underestimates you."
Lin Xue stood, her movements graceful and deliberate. "Let him challenge me," she said, her voice calm, almost detached. "He will learn, as many have before him, that arrogance is no substitute for strength."
Han Mei bowed again, her confidence in Lin Xue unwavering. "You will win, Mistress. I know it."
Lin Xue's expression softened ever so slightly as she placed a hand on Han Mei's shoulder. "Remember this, Han Mei," she said softly. "Power is the only truth in this world. The strong survive, and the weak are left behind. Xu Tian may be strong, but he is distracted by his desire for fame, for admiration… for me. Such desires only weaken him."
With that, Lin Xue returned to her meditation, her mind clear and focused. Tomorrow would bring challenges, but she welcomed them. She lived for these moments, where she could measure her strength against others, where she could prove, not to anyone else, but to herself, that she was on the right path.
The night passed quickly, the stars shining cold and distant above the sect. As dawn approached, the outer sect disciples gathered in the arena, their faces alight with excitement and nervous energy. Lin Xue remained calm, her demeanor as still and serene as the frozen lakes of her homeland.
She would not be deterred by the competition, nor by the ambitions of those around her. Her path was her own, and no one—not even Xu Tian—would stand in her way.