Author's Note: Do Not Unlock Yet. Chapter Is Still Under Construction.
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The musicians had just shifted from flutes to zithers when the first challenge floated across the lantern-lit hall like a stray ember.
"Hero of Blueflame," a pale youth in teal robes called, the crest on his chest depicting a spiral mountain, "would you grant me the honor of pointers?"
A hush fell, then the hush broke into a low tide of whispers. Azure Mountain Sect—prestigious, stubborn, never quite gentle.
Victor set his wine aside. "Pointers I can give," he said, smiling. "Bruises are extra."
A ring opened in the center of the banquet garden where the marble tiles gave way to raked sand and moonlight. Palace masters raised a thin barrier to keep stray qi from flaying the hedges. The youth saluted with two fingers, then stepped into a flowing stance, feet light, sleeves like wings.
