Dawn broke over the Azure Lotus Sect with the kind of perfect clarity that seemed designed for momentous occasions. The tournament grounds buzzed with energy as twenty thousand spectators filled the arenas, their excitement palpable in the spiritual-energy-charged air.
Lin Feng stood in the competitors' preparation area, watching other Divine Domain cultivators go through their pre-match routines. Some meditated quietly, centering themselves. Others practiced techniques, their spiritual energy crackling visibly. A few engaged in last-minute strategy discussions with their sect elders.
"Nervous?" Xiao Ling asked, appearing at his elbow with a cup of spirit tea. She'd somehow talked her way into the preparation areas despite being support staff.
"Cautiously alert," Lin Feng accepted the tea gratefully. "This is different from life-or-death combat. There are rules, referees, medical teams standing by. It should feel safer, but somehow it feels more exposed."
"Because everyone's watching. Because performance matters beyond just survival." Xiao Ling's perceptiveness had grown along with her cultivation—she was Foundation Establishment Level 8 now, advancing steadily through sect resources and her own determination. "But Lin Feng, you've faced assassination attempts, Sovereign Monarchs, impossible odds. A tournament match should be easy by comparison."
"Should be. But tournament matches have political implications that life-or-death fights don't. If I win too easily, I reveal too much. If I struggle too obviously, I appear weak to potential allies." Lin Feng sipped the tea—it was excellent, carrying just enough spiritual energy to enhance focus without causing distraction. "I need to perform well enough to be impressive, not so well that I'm terrifying."
"The eternal balance you live with." Xiao Ling smiled sadly. "Someday you'll be strong enough to stop hiding. Someday you can just be yourself without calculating every action."
"Someday. But not today."
Through the Dao Thread, Yun Qingxue's presence touched his mind: Your first match is being announced. Arena Three. Your opponent is from the Crimson Peak Sect—Han Jie, Divine Domain Level 2.
Crimson Peak. Zhao Hai mentioned they use aggressive tactics.
Be careful. And Lin Feng? Remember that I'm watching. You're not alone out there.
The warmth of her support carried him through the final preparations. Elder Yuan appeared to provide last-minute tactical advice: "Han Jie is known for overwhelming offense. He'll try to dominate from the first exchange, push you into defensive positions where you can't counter effectively. Don't let him dictate the pace."
"Understood, Elder."
"And Lin Feng? Win this match. Not for the sect's honor, though that matters. Win because you need allies to see you're worth their attention." Elder Yuan's usually stern expression softened fractionally. "The Patriarch sent a message this morning. He believes in you. So do I."
The announcement echoed across the tournament grounds: "Arena Three, Divine Domain Bracket, First Round: Lin Feng of Celestial Dawn Sect versus Han Jie of Crimson Peak Sect!"
Lin Feng walked through the preparation area's exit tunnel, emerging into Arena Three to a wave of sound. The arena held five thousand spectators—smaller than the grand arena but still imposing. Sunlight streamed through formation barriers that protected the crowd while allowing perfect visibility.
Han Jie waited at the arena's opposite side—a tall, muscular cultivator whose spiritual energy radiated crimson like living flame. Divine Domain Level 2, but his presence felt denser than Lin Feng's carefully concealed Level 3. This was someone who'd fought often, whose cultivation was tempered through constant combat.
"Lin Feng," Han Jie's voice carried across the arena. "The mysterious Void cultivator everyone whispers about. I've been curious about your techniques."
"Then I hope I don't disappoint, Senior Brother Han."
"Oh, I'm sure you'll be entertaining. Whether you'll be victorious..." Han Jie smiled sharply. "That's another question entirely."
The referee—a neutral elder from the Azure Lotus Sect at Immortal Emperor Level 1—stepped between them. "Standard tournament rules apply. Victory by surrender, incapacitation, or death. Though death is strongly discouraged and will result in severe penalties for the victor. Techniques that cause permanent damage are forbidden. Violations will result in immediate disqualification and sect sanctions."
Both competitors acknowledged understanding.
"Cultivators, take your positions."
Lin Feng and Han Jie moved to their starting marks, fifty meters apart. The arena floor was reinforced stone covered in formation arrays that would monitor the match, prevent excessive damage to surroundings, and provide emergency intervention if needed.
"Ready!"
Lin Feng settled into a neutral stance, sword drawn, his concealment holding firm. To observers, his spiritual signature appeared Divine Domain Level 1—impressive for someone his age but not overwhelming.
Han Jie's stance was aggressive, weight forward, spiritual energy already coiling for immediate attack.
"Begin!"
Han Jie moved instantly, his speed explosive. The distance between them vanished in less than a second as he closed with a technique called "Crimson Flash Step"—a burst movement that left afterimages of flame in its wake.
His opening strike was a downward slash enhanced with fire-element spiritual energy, the kind of overwhelming offense Elder Yuan had warned about. The force behind it could split mountains if uncontested.
Lin Feng didn't try to block directly. Instead, he used Void Step—not the full Divine Domain version but a constrained variant that looked like exceptional footwork rather than spatial manipulation. He appeared three meters to the left just as Han Jie's blade struck where he'd been standing.
The impact cratered the arena floor despite the reinforcement formations. Spectators gasped—that kind of power from an opening move was unusual.
"Fast!" Han Jie acknowledged, recovering immediately and launching into a combination assault. "But can you keep dodging?"
The answer, as Lin Feng demonstrated over the next minute, was yes. He could absolutely keep dodging. Han Jie's attacks were powerful and numerous, each strike carrying enough force to seriously injure a Divine Domain Level 1 cultivator. But Lin Feng had trained with Mei She specifically for this—evasion against superior force.
He flowed around attacks like water around stones, used minimal movements for maximum effect, occasionally deflected rather than blocked when evasion wasn't quite enough. To the audience, it looked like exceptional defensive technique combined with perfect reaction timing. No one could see the split-second void manipulation that made his movements just slightly faster than physically possible.
"Impressive defense!" The tournament announcer's magically amplified voice provided commentary. "Lin Feng demonstrates remarkable evasion skills! But Han Jie's relentless offense continues!"
After ninety seconds of pure defense, Lin Feng sensed Han Jie's rhythm shifting—the Crimson Peak cultivator was adjusting his timing, setting up for something more complex than straightforward assault.
Here comes his real technique.
Han Jie suddenly retreated three steps, his spiritual energy flaring crimson-gold. "Enough playing! Crimson Dragon's Descent!"
His domain manifested—"The Burning Sky"—a space where temperature spiked toward the melting point of steel and the air itself seemed to ignite. Within his domain, Han Jie's fire techniques were enhanced dramatically while opponents suffered constant damage from ambient heat.
The crowd roared approval. Divine Domain manifestation in a first-round match was unusual—Han Jie was either very confident or very worried.
Within the Burning Sky, Han Jie's form seemed to multiply, five flaming constructs that looked like dragons materializing around him. This was his signature technique—a combination assault using his domain's power to create semi-independent attack constructs.
All five dragons struck simultaneously from different angles, their flames hot enough to vaporize iron, moving with speed that made tracking difficult.
Lin Feng had options. He could manifest his own domain and completely dominate this exchange—the Eternal Void would consume Han Jie's Burning Sky effortlessly. But that would reveal too much.
Instead, he chose a middle path.
He activated just the Law of Liberation—not his full domain, just his fundamental law as a localized effect. The area immediately around his body became subject to liberation from constraints, including the constraints of Han Jie's domain.
To observers, it looked like Lin Feng had created a defensive technique that rejected the environmental effects while he dealt with the dragons.
He struck out with his sword, using a technique called "Void Severance" that he'd modified to appear like an advanced spatial cutting technique rather than true void manipulation. The blade passed through the first dragon construct, disrupting its spiritual energy matrix enough to cause dispersal.
Second dragon, same response. Third dragon—he dodged rather than attacked, showing he wasn't unlimited in technique application.
Fourth dragon he met with a direct palm strike, channeling just enough void energy disguised as spatial disruption to shatter its cohesion.
Fifth dragon—this one he let hit his defensive technique, allowing the impact to push him back dramatically while his Law of Liberation ensured no real damage occurred.
The exchange took six seconds. The crowd went wild.
"Incredible! Lin Feng survives the Crimson Dragon's Descent! But at what cost?"
Lin Feng staggered slightly—a performance more than reality. He'd taken no significant damage, but appearing exhausted was strategically wise. Let Han Jie think the technique had worked as intended.
Han Jie's domain dissipated, the effort of maintaining it and creating five dragon constructs having depleted his spiritual energy significantly. He was breathing hard, but his expression showed satisfaction—he believed he'd established dominance.
"You survived my signature technique. Commendable." Han Jie settled into a more measured stance. "But you're weakened now. How much longer can you maintain that spatial defense?"
"Long enough," Lin Feng replied, privately amused. His "spatial defense" was actually just basic application of his law and cost almost nothing to maintain.
The match continued, but the dynamic had shifted. Han Jie believed he'd softened Lin Feng up and could now win through sustained pressure. He attacked with combinations designed to exploit perceived exhaustion—heavy strikes alternating with quick jabs, spiritual energy techniques mixed with physical assault.
Lin Feng defended, but now added counters. Nothing devastating, just enough to show he wasn't helpless. A spatial blade that forced Han Jie to dodge. A sudden burst of speed that disrupted the Crimson Peak cultivator's rhythm. Small demonstrations that suggested reserves deeper than his exhausted appearance implied.
The match stretched to five minutes—longer than most first-round bouts. The crowd remained engaged, impressed by both competitors' tenacity.
Then Lin Feng made his move.
He waited for Han Jie to overcommit to a power strike—a overhead chop channeling massive spiritual energy. At the moment of full commitment, Lin Feng used Void Step (the constrained version) to appear behind Han Jie, then executed "Spatial Lock"—a technique where he used void energy to make the space around his opponent briefly resistant to movement.
It looked like an advanced spatial formation technique activated at close range. In reality, it was fundamental void manipulation, creating momentary thickness in reality itself.
Han Jie found himself unable to complete his turn, his body caught in resistant space for just half a second.
Half a second was enough.
Lin Feng's sword edge pressed against Han Jie's throat—not cutting, just touching. First blood rules meant actual blood wasn't necessary if incapacitation was obvious.
"Yield," Lin Feng said quietly, loud enough for the referee but not the crowd.
Han Jie's eyes showed frustration, then grudging respect. He'd been outmaneuvered at the critical moment.
"I yield."
The referee's hand came down. "Victory: Lin Feng of Celestial Dawn Sect!"
The crowd erupted—some cheering, some disappointed their favored fighter had lost, all impressed by the technical skill displayed.
Lin Feng released his spatial lock and stepped back, offering a formal bow to his opponent. "Thank you for the excellent match, Senior Brother Han. I learned much."
"You fight like someone with far more experience than your age suggests," Han Jie said, returning the bow. "That spatial locking technique—I've never seen it applied quite that way. We should discuss theory sometime."
"I'd enjoy that."
As they left the arena—winners exiting through one tunnel, losers through another—Lin Feng felt the weight of thousands of eyes on him. The first match was done. He'd won decisively but not overwhelmingly. Shown skill without revealing true power.
Perfect.
In the Celestial Dawn Sect viewing box, Elder Yuan nodded approval. Zhao Hai grinned and punched the air. Xiao Ling looked relieved enough to cry.
And Yun Qingxue, sitting with perfect Ice Goddess composure, allowed herself the smallest smile while sending through the Dao Thread: Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. You showed exactly what you needed to show and nothing more.
One match down. How many more until the real challenges?
Several. But you've proven you belong here. Now everyone knows the mysterious void cultivator isn't just hype.
Lin Feng made his way to the recovery area where medical disciples checked competitors for injuries. He had none worth mentioning, but he let them fuss over him anyway—maintaining the appearance of someone who'd been pushed hard.
"Impressive match," a voice said from nearby. Lin Feng turned to find Feng Chen, the tournament favorite, observing with interest. "Your spatial techniques are remarkably efficient. And that defensive method against the Burning Sky domain—I couldn't quite understand its theoretical foundation."
"Ancient techniques from recovered texts. Sometimes even I don't fully understand the theory." Lin Feng kept his tone modest. "I just know they work."
"Fascinating. I look forward to our eventual match even more now." Feng Chen's eyes gleamed with genuine enthusiasm. "The semifinals, as I mentioned. I've already confirmed with organizers—barring upsets, we'll face each other there."
"I'll do my best to reach that point, Senior Brother Feng."
"Oh, you will. I'm certain of it." Feng Chen departed with a friendly nod, leaving Lin Feng with the distinct impression he'd just been evaluated and found interesting—which was both flattering and slightly worrying from someone as powerful as the tournament favorite.
The afternoon brought more first-round matches. Lin Feng watched from the Celestial Dawn viewing box, analyzing competitors he might face in later rounds.
Zhao Hai fought impressively, winning his match against a Golden Transformation Level 9 opponent who'd just broken through to Divine Domain Level 1. The victory was decisive if not dominant.
Other Celestial Dawn disciples had mixed results—two more victories, three losses. Respectable performance for a mid-tier sect competing against the continent's best.
Then came the match everyone had been anticipating: Li Xian's first bout.
The Azure Sky young master entered the arena with theatrical flair, his azure robes pristine, his spiritual energy radiating Divine Domain Level 3 clearly for all to see. His opponent was from a minor sect, Divine Domain Level 2—outmatched before the fight even began.
The match lasted ninety seconds.
Li Xian didn't just defeat his opponent; he humiliated him. Overwhelming power, ruthless efficiency, and just enough restraint to avoid permanent damage that would trigger sanctions. When it ended, his opponent was unconscious and required immediate medical attention.
The crowd's reaction was mixed—impressed by the power display, unsettled by the unnecessary brutality.
Through the Dao Thread: He's sending a message. To you specifically.
Lin Feng had recognized it too. Li Xian had made eye contact with the Celestial Dawn viewing box multiple times during the match, making his intent clear: This could be you. This will be you.
Let him posture. Empty threats from someone angry about losing.
His threats aren't empty. He's Divine Domain Level 3 now, same as your real level. And he's had access to Azure Sky Family resources for combat training. If you face him...
If I face him, I'll win. Not because I'm stronger, but because I understand him and he doesn't understand me.
The confidence wasn't entirely bravado. Lin Feng had studied Li Xian extensively—knew his fighting style, his temperament, his weaknesses. The young master was powerful but predictable, his techniques orthodox and his strategy conventional.
In a tournament match with rules and referees, Li Xian's advantages were reduced while Lin Feng's—technique versatility, tactical flexibility, void manipulation—were enhanced.
Still, I'd rather not face him until later rounds. Let him burn spiritual energy fighting others first.
Evening fell over the tournament grounds. The first day of competition concluded with thirty-two competitors remaining in the Divine Domain bracket. Second round matches would begin tomorrow, followed by quarter-finals the day after.
At the evening banquet—smaller than the opening feast but still elaborate—Lin Feng found himself approached by several sect representatives interested in his performance. Some offered congratulations, others made subtle recruitment pitches, a few asked about his cultivation methods with varying degrees of subtlety.
Through it all, he maintained careful politeness, committed to nothing, and gathered information about other sects' political positions and interests.
"You're handling this well," Yun Qingxue murmured during a brief moment when they could speak privately near the refreshment tables. "Most people your age would either be overwhelmed by the attention or arrogant about it."
"I've had practice at navigating hostile social situations. Fourteen years as a servant teaches you to read people and manage expectations." Lin Feng selected a spirit fruit that would aid overnight cultivation recovery. "Though I admit, being courted instead of ignored is novel."
"Enjoy it while it lasts. Success attracts allies, but it also attracts enemies." Her ice-blue eyes found Li Xian across the banquet hall. He was holding court with Azure Sky allies, but his gaze kept drifting toward them. "He's planning something."
"Let him plan. Plans often fail when they encounter reality."
"You're very confident for someone who's only Divine Domain Level 3."
"I'm very confident for someone who has you as his dao companion, Mei She as his trainer, and the Patriarch as his mentor. Support network matters more than individual power." Lin Feng smiled slightly. "Also, I'm about to break through to Level 4. I can feel it—another two or three days of cultivation, one more intense combat, and the advancement will come."
"During the tournament?"
"Possibly during a match if the pressure is right. Combat breakthroughs are more stable than quiet meditation ones—the advancement is tested immediately rather than in theory."
They separated as other sect members approached, but the Dao Thread maintained connection. Lin Feng could feel her presence constantly now—not intrusive, just there. Like knowing someone was in the next room even without seeing them.
This bond is deeper every day. The Patriarch warned about losing individual identity, but I don't feel lost. I feel... complete.
Late that night, alone in his quarters, Lin Feng cultivated intensely. The day's combat had stirred his spiritual energy, creating the restless momentum that preceded breakthroughs. Divine Domain Level 4 was so close—he could almost touch the threshold.
But forcing advancement was dangerous. Better to let it come naturally through proper combat pressure.
Tomorrow. Second round matches. Stronger opponents. More intensity.
Perfect conditions for breakthrough.
Through his window, the Trinity Mirror shone—seventh appearance in eight weeks. Whatever the heavens were watching for, it was accelerating toward something significant.
Lin Feng drew on the Inverse Void Dao, channeling void energy through his perfect meridians, feeling the Heart of Void pulse with gathering power.
One match won. Several more to go. Enemies watching. Allies uncertain. The future balanced on knife's edge.
But tonight, he'd proven something important: he belonged at this level. Could compete with the continent's best and win.
Tomorrow would bring greater challenges.
He was ready.
END OF CHAPTER 24
TO BE CONTINUED IN CHAPTER 25: Between the Waves