The sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the sprawling arena. Nestled in the heart of the Rael clan's territory, the arena had been meticulously prepared for this monumental occasion, where the 108 great and small families of the cultivation world would converge to prove their strength. Rows upon rows of seats stretched out in concentric circles, filling with spectators from all across the land, each family boasting banners and insignias that fluttered in the soft breeze.
The air buzzed with anticipation as the last of the families took their places. In the center of the arena, a shimmering golden barrier, forged by ancient formations, stood tall—an unbreakable shield meant to contain the devastating powers that would be unleashed in battle. Even the weakest of families could feel the overwhelming aura emanating from the grounds. This was no ordinary tournament; this was where legends were born.
Raiden sat among his family's representatives, surrounded by Torrin, his sister Seren, and the two additional Rael members chosen for the event: Leticia and Cedric. Torrin's ever-present smirk stretched across his face as his eyes scanned the crowd for Lillia, while Raiden's thoughts remained inward. The magnitude of the competition loomed over him like a cloud, but he stayed composed, his mind still on the breakthrough he had recently achieved.
"The arena looks more impressive than last year," Leticia murmured, her hand shading her eyes as she observed the towering formations surrounding the fighting platform.
Cedric nodded in agreement, his sharp eyes darting across the crowd. "Indeed. I've heard they reinforced the formations just in case a few… anomalies arise."
"Anomalies," Torrin snickered, tossing a glance at Raiden. "Seems like a word we're all too familiar with."
Seren shot Torrin a glare, but said nothing, her quiet support for Raiden palpable in her presence alone. Raiden, however, did not react, his attention shifting as the announcer's voice boomed across the arena, signaling the start of the event.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests from the 108 great and small families," the announcer declared, his voice resonating through the crowd. "Welcome to the Clan Gathering, a tournament of strength, skill, and spirit!"
The crowd erupted in cheers, the ground beneath them trembling from the noise. As the roars subsided, the announcer continued, "This year's gathering will follow a single-elimination format, with each family presenting their finest heirs to compete for glory. Those who remain standing after each round will face off in the final sixteen. The grand prize is not just honor, but treasures that surpass even imagination!"
More cheers followed, but Raiden could sense the weight behind the announcer's words. The tournament wasn't just a display of strength—it was a stage for alliances, rivalries, and the futures of countless families to be decided.
As the first few families were called, Raiden tuned out the ceremonial speech and instead allowed his gaze to wander. He noticed the presence of the Vidar family, their crimson banner with a golden flame in its center catching the light. Eirik, the eldest son and heir, stood confidently, his sharp eyes scanning the competitors. It was no secret that the Vidar family was seeking to strengthen their ties by aligning themselves with someone powerful, and whispers had already spread about Eirik's intentions toward Lillia.
"The Vidar family certainly seems ambitious this year," Cedric muttered, noticing Raiden's wandering gaze.
"Ambitious, maybe," Torrin said with a sneer, "but they'll be nothing once we crush them in the later rounds."
Before Cedric could respond, another voice caught the attention of the Rael family. "And now, representing one of the most reclusive yet powerful families in the realm, the Astoria clan!"
All eyes turned to the far side of the arena as the Astoria family made their entrance. Their arrival was marked by a wave of icy mist that swirled through the air, dissipating only when their five representatives took their seats. Among them was Lillia, her dark milk chocolate skin contrasting with the pale blue robes she wore. A veil of mystery surrounded her, not just due to her beauty, but because of the sheer rarity of her appearances in public. Rumors had always followed the Astoria family, especially regarding Lillia's celestial beauty, but seeing her now, even Raiden couldn't deny her ethereal presence.
"Astoria's finally sending out their princess," Torrin muttered under his breath. "About time."
The murmurs from the crowd grew louder as more spectators took notice of her, their awe palpable. The four other members of her family, who had been introduced alongside her, carried the same air of reclusiveness. Even among the strong and proud families gathered here, the Astorias were like shadows—always present, but seldom seen.
"The Astoria family brings five participants this year, led by none other than Lillia Astoria, known for her rare ice spirit roots," the announcer's voice echoed.
Ice. It made sense, Raiden thought. The chill that accompanied their entrance was no coincidence. Ice was her primary element, but something about her presence hinted at more. She wasn't just another participant. She was a storm waiting to be unleashed.
"Good luck to anyone who has to face her," Seren whispered softly, her voice carrying a mix of admiration and caution.
Raiden nodded, though his mind remained clear. Lillia was a threat, yes, but so was every other participant from a major family. He couldn't afford to be distracted, not now.
The ceremony continued, and other notable families were introduced. The Fenrir family, known for their mastery of earth-based spirit roots, presented three participants. The Balfour family, experts in water-based techniques, sent four. The Bjornson clan, masters of beast taming, brought two young heirs. As each family took their place, the excitement grew, the atmosphere thickening with anticipation for the battles to come.
Finally, the announcer concluded, "The tournament will begin at dawn tomorrow! Participants are advised to prepare, for the path to victory will be arduous. May the strongest prevail!"
The crowd cheered once more, though Raiden remained silent. He knew what tomorrow would bring—he would face not just his opponents, but the judgment of his family and the world itself. As the day drew to a close, the participants began retreating to their respective quarters to rest and prepare. Tomorrow, the real test would begin.