The Lin Clan's courtyard had evolved into a scene of growing excitement. Under Tianyu's leadership, disciples had rapidly improved, their cultivation levels rising at an unprecedented rate. What started as a small, weak clan was beginning to gain attention from the surrounding kingdoms, sects, and even some of the more influential families. It was clear that Tianyu's influence was spreading like wildfire. But despite his rising status, Tianyu knew that his clan's strength was still far from the level needed to confront the true powerhouses in the world.
His immediate priority was clear: the Lin Clan needed a way to demonstrate their growing strength to the outside world. The best way to do that was through a Cultivation Tournament — an event that was held once every three years in the Azure Winds Kingdom, one of the more prominent kingdoms in the region. The tournament would bring together cultivators from all over, and it was a perfect opportunity for Tianyu to showcase the strength of the Lin Clan.
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The Decision to Enter
The Azure Winds Cultivation Tournament was known far and wide. Every sect, clan, and kingdom sent their strongest disciples to compete for the chance to gain fame and valuable rewards. The winner would receive a Heavenly Alchemist's Elixir, a powerful pill that could push a cultivator to the next stage of their cultivation. This was an opportunity Tianyu could not let slip by.
He stood before the gathered clan members, the air thick with anticipation. His voice was firm as he addressed them, "I have decided that we will enter the Azure Winds Cultivation Tournament this year. It is time for us to show the world our true strength."
Gasps of excitement echoed through the crowd, followed by a burst of enthusiastic applause. The Lin Clan's disciples had been training for this moment, but they hadn't expected Tianyu to take such a bold step. They were aware of their limitations, but the confidence Tianyu had instilled in them over the past few months had given them newfound courage.
Tianyu continued, "I will personally lead a group of disciples to the tournament. But know this — we must give our all. There will be no holding back."
He glanced over at Lin Jie, his first disciple, and nodded. Lin Jie had proven himself time and again, and Tianyu knew he would be a key player in the upcoming tournament. His Beast Taming skills, combined with his rapid growth in cultivation, made him a formidable force.
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Preparing for the Tournament
In the days leading up to the tournament, Tianyu focused on preparing his disciples. He had already equipped them with the basics: cultivation techniques, spirit stones, and some basic artifacts from the System's Store. However, he wanted to give them an extra edge. Tianyu began exploring the System's Store again, looking for powerful items that could help them win the tournament.
As the System's voice echoed in his mind, he accessed the System Store.
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System Store – Tournament Preparation:
Advanced Beast Taming Collar (500 Points): A collar that could bind more powerful beasts and help them grow faster.
Firefly Pendant (300 Points): A pendant that enhances cultivation speed during the night.
Ironheart Armor (800 Points): Armor that provides great protection and boosts strength during combat.
Windblaze Boots (600 Points): Boots that increase speed and agility by 50% during fights.
Heavenly Pill of Strength (1000 Points): A rare pill that boosts a cultivator's strength by two ranks for a limited time.
Mid-tier Spirit Stones (200 Points): A significant boost for cultivation and recovery.
Tianyu's gaze narrowed. The Heavenly Pill of Strength was exactly what he needed. For the tournament, speed, strength, and agility would be crucial. The Windblaze Boots and Ironheart Armor would also be invaluable in ensuring his disciples had the upper hand in combat. He quickly purchased them, his points dwindling as he selected items that would maximize their potential.
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Training Intensifies
The day before they were set to depart, Tianyu called the disciples together for one final training session. Lin Jie, along with several other disciples, stood before him, their eyes focused with determination. They had all received their equipment: the Windblaze Boots, Ironheart Armor, and the Heavenly Pill of Strength had been distributed.
"Tonight, you will take the Heavenly Pill of Strength," Tianyu said, his voice carrying authority. "Tomorrow, we enter the tournament. You will fight not just for the clan, but for your own futures."
Lin Jie stepped forward, his usual timid nature gone. His eyes were filled with the fire of determination. "Master, we will make you proud."
Tianyu smiled faintly. He had already begun to notice a transformation in his disciples. They weren't just growing stronger — they were beginning to believe in themselves.
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Entering the Azure Winds Kingdom
The morning of the tournament arrived, and Tianyu led his disciples through the bustling streets of Azure Winds City. The city was magnificent, with grandiose buildings and wide streets filled with cultivators from all walks of life. The tournament grounds were located at the heart of the city, a massive coliseum surrounded by tall walls and guarded by elite cultivators.
As they approached the coliseum, Tianyu could feel the pressure building. The atmosphere was thick with excitement, and he could sense the presence of many powerful cultivators. His disciples, though nervous, stood tall beside him.
"We will enter as one unit," Tianyu said. "But remember, in this tournament, you will fight for your survival. Trust in each other and trust in your abilities."
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The Tournament Begins
The tournament kicked off with a spectacular display of strength. The first round was a series of one-on-one duels, and Tianyu's disciples quickly stepped into the ring. Lin Jie fought his first opponent, a young man from the Silver Fang Clan, who specialized in swordsmanship.
Lin Jie's battle was intense, but with the help of his Beast Taming Collar and enhanced cultivation, he was able to outmaneuver and defeat his opponent, despite the sword user's greater strength in the Qi Refining realm. The crowd erupted in applause as Lin Jie's victory was announced.
One after another, Tianyu's disciples proved their worth. They may have been from the weakest clan, but they were quickly gaining the attention of everyone present. Tianyu's heart swelled with pride as he watched his disciples rise to the occasion.
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The Final Match
As the tournament continued, the Lin Clan's disciples advanced through the rounds. Finally, it was Lin Jie's turn to face the Cloudblade Sect's champion, a prodigy known for his speed and agility — Zhao Yun. Zhao Yun was a member of the Foundation Building realm, far stronger than Lin Jie in terms of raw power.
The match was set. Lin Jie stood tall in the center of the ring, facing Zhao Yun with a fierce determination in his eyes. The crowd fell silent as both fighters prepared for the final showdown.