The Frost Moon Sect's arena was a massive, circular structure carved into the heart of the mountain itself. Its stone walls rose high into the sky, casting long shadows over the gathered disciples. The cold wind that swept through the arena was biting, adding to the tension in the air. Spectators filled the tiered seating, their excited chatter buzzing like an electric current.
Lin Xue stood at the edge of the arena, her expression cold and composed. Her silver and white robes fluttered gently in the wind, and her icy aura kept those around her at a distance. Even in a crowd, she remained alone, her presence commanding and unapproachable.
The sect elders, seated in the highest seats of the arena, began to announce the rules of the competition. There would be multiple rounds, each designed to test the strength, speed, and technique of the outer sect disciples. Only the strongest would advance. The final victor would be promoted to the inner sect and granted access to the mystic realm.
As Lin Xue listened, she noticed Xu Tian standing a few paces away. He was surrounded by a group of admirers, his confidence palpable. His tall, muscular frame was draped in crimson robes, his fiery aura a stark contrast to Lin Xue's cold presence. He caught her gaze and smirked arrogantly, as if already declaring himself the winner.
Lin Xue's expression didn't change. She had no interest in Xu Tian's theatrics. While others might be swayed by his charisma and strength, Lin Xue saw only weakness—a weakness rooted in his overconfidence.
When the first round began, the arena exploded with energy as the disciples faced off against each other. Lin Xue's name was called early, and she stepped into the center of the arena, facing her first opponent—a brawny disciple named Rong Zhu.
Rong Zhu was known for his physical strength, his body honed through years of body refining. He grinned at Lin Xue, clearly underestimating her slender frame and serene demeanor. "You should've stayed out of this, little girl," he sneered.
Lin Xue remained silent, her cold gaze fixed on him. The signal to begin was given, and Rong Zhu charged forward with a roar, his fists raised. But before he could get close, Lin Xue moved.
With a flick of her wrist, she summoned a gust of icy wind, sending shards of ice flying toward her opponent. Rong Zhu barely had time to react before the ice struck him, freezing his legs in place. He struggled to free himself, but Lin Xue was already moving again. She raised her hand, and shadows pooled beneath her, coiling like serpents. In an instant, the shadows lashed out, wrapping around Rong Zhu and immobilizing him completely.
The match was over in moments. Lin Xue's victory was decisive, her power undeniable.
As she walked away from the arena, she could feel the eyes of the spectators on her, their whispers growing louder. Lin Xue paid them no mind. This was only the beginning.