The sun hung high over Blue Wave City, its golden rays illuminating the bustling streets and towering architecture. The city was alive, pulsing with the energy of cultivators, merchants, and spectators who had gathered for the much-anticipated Sect Promotion Exams.
Makoto stood on the balcony of the inn, observing the vibrant scene below. His expression was calm, but his mind replayed the events of the auction and his fight with Kaizen. Despite his decisive victory, the undercurrents of tension had not subsided.
---
Morning Discussions at the Inn
Inside the inn's common room, the atmosphere was heavy with anticipation. Hiro and Kazu were seated at a table, their conversation subdued. Plates of half-eaten food sat before them, their appetites dulled by the looming challenge of the exams.
Yuna poured herself another cup of tea, her graceful movements belying her inner concern. "Makoto, do you think Kaizen will retaliate soon?" she asked softly.
Makoto descended the stairs, his presence commanding attention. He moved to the table and took a seat, his expression unreadable.
"He'll come, but not yet," Makoto replied. "For now, his pride will hold him back. He's already been humiliated once. He won't risk another public defeat."
Hiro furrowed his brow. "It's not just Kaizen. His family is influential. His father's deacons are said to be formidable, especially Hiroshi. They might not let this slide."
Makoto smirked faintly. "Let them come. I'll deal with them when the time comes."
Kazu tried to lighten the mood. "Well, at least we'll have front-row seats to the drama!"
Yuna shot him a disapproving look, but Makoto chuckled, the tension momentarily easing.
---
Behind the Scenes: Kaizen's Recovery
Elsewhere in the city, Kaizen sat in a private chamber, his injuries from the duel bandaged but still fresh. Hiroshi stood nearby, his posture relaxed yet vigilant.
"You're lucky to be alive," Hiroshi said plainly, his tone devoid of sympathy.
Kaizen scowled. "He caught me off guard. I underestimated him."
"Underestimating an opponent can be fatal," Hiroshi replied. "Remember that in the future."
The door creaked open, and Elder Li entered, his piercing gaze sweeping over the room.
"Kaizen, your failure has embarrassed not only yourself but also the sect and your family. Do you understand the consequences?"
Kaizen bowed his head. "Yes, Elder."
Li's expression softened slightly. "Good. Use this as a lesson. The Sect Promotion Exams are an opportunity to redeem yourself. Focus on that."
Kaizen nodded, determination hardening his features.
Makoto and his group ventured out into the city later that morning. Blue Wave City had transformed overnight into a hub of excitement. Stalls lined the streets, selling everything from spirit herbs to enchanted weapons. The air was thick with the scent of incense and roasted meats, mingling with the hum of countless conversations.
Kazu darted from one stall to another, his excitement infectious. "Look at this, Hiro! A talisman that increases speed by 20%! And over there, a blade said to cut through iron like butter!"
Hiro followed at a more measured pace, his eyes scanning the crowd. "Stay focused, Kazu. We're here for the exams, not souvenirs."
Yuna walked beside Makoto, her gaze sharp as she observed their surroundings. "Do you sense anything unusual?" she asked.
Makoto's lips twitched into a faint smile. "Always. But nothing worth worrying about—yet."
As they walked, whispers followed them. The news of Makoto's duel with Kaizen had spread like wildfire. Many regarded him with curiosity, while others watched him with barely concealed hostility.
Near the central plaza, a commotion drew their attention. A young girl, no older than thirteen, was being harassed by a group of rogue cultivators. Her delicate features were twisted in fear as she clutched a small pouch close to her chest.
"Hand it over," one of the rogues sneered, reaching for the pouch.
Makoto's steps faltered, his gaze locking onto the scene. Before anyone could react, he moved, his figure blurring as he appeared between the girl and the rogues.
The lead rogue staggered back, startled. "Who are you?"
Makoto's voice was cold, his words carrying an edge of danger. "Leave. Now."
The rogues hesitated, their instincts warning them against provoking him. One muttered under his breath, "He's the one who fought Kaizen."
Without another word, they scattered.
Makoto turned to the girl, his expression softening slightly. "Go home."
She nodded quickly, tears streaming down her face, and ran off.
Yuna approached him, her tone gentle. "You didn't have to intervene."
Makoto shrugged. "Old habits."
The group finally reached the registration area. The massive plaza was dominated by a jade pillar inscribed with runes that shimmered faintly. Hundreds of cultivators were already there, their chatter filling the air.
An elder stepped forward, his presence commanding silence. "All participants, step forward and inscribe your name on the pillar. This will verify your cultivation base and officially register you for the exams."
Makoto stepped forward, placing his hand on the pillar. A golden light spread from his palm, illuminating his name as it appeared on the jade surface. The crowd murmured, intrigued by the unusual glow.
Behind him, Kazu whispered to Hiro, "Why does everything he does look so dramatic?"
Hiro smirked. "Because he's Makoto."
As Makoto turned away from the pillar, he found himself face-to-face with Li Zhang, the Azure Sun Sect's second strongest disciple.
"Makoto," Li Zhang said, his tone calm yet challenging. "You've caused quite a stir. I hope you're ready to back it up."
Makoto met his gaze evenly. "I don't disappoint."
Their exchange drew the attention of others, including a rogue cultivator clad in black robes. His piercing gaze lingered on Makoto, a smirk playing on his lips.
Once all the participants had registered, the elder addressed the crowd.
"The Sect Promotion Exams consist of three stages: survival, combat, and teamwork. The first stage begins tomorrow at dawn in the Blue Wave Forest. Tokens have been hidden throughout the forest. Collect as many as you can within the time limit. Only the top fifty token holders will advance."
The crowd buzzed with excitement and apprehension. Survival rounds were notoriously dangerous, with traps, beasts, and rival cultivators posing constant threats.
Makoto stood at the edge of the crowd, his expression contemplative. Yuna placed a hand on his arm. "Ready?"
He nodded, his resolve unshakable. "More than ever."