The Peak Assembly progressed without incident.
Jace and Dylan climbed the ranks with unstoppable momentum.
Likewise, Marcus and Vera faced no significant challenges.
At this rate, the final match would pit the two disciples of the Main Sect's Lineage against the two disciples of the Thorne Lineage—a configuration everyone found thrilling.
Somewhere atop a distant mountain, even Elder Thorne must be watching this unfold. It was simply too entertaining to miss.
However, for Sect Leader Gideon, it was far from enjoyable.
"...That damned senior brother," he muttered under his breath.
For sixty years, he had lived under the shadow of Thorne, always one step behind.
"...Are we prepared?"
His low voice simmered with tension, audible only to Magnus, who stood nearby.
The Cherry Blossom Swordmaster Magnus approached and answered with calm assurance.
"Do not worry."
