Word of the Qingyang Sect's actions from the previous night had already spread like wildfire across every major sect. Having failed to recruit Haofeng and Limo, the sect had instead harbored murderous intent toward the two young prodigies, causing the Qingyang Sect to completely lose face at the grand event. Disciples from various sects whispered among themselves. Some expressed indignation at the Qingyang Sect's behavior, arguing that resorting to violent coercion after a failed recruitment showed a wretched character; others mocked the sect for failing to recognize talent and attempting to strike down two rising prodigies, which only made the sect look all the more petty and incompetent.
Yet the matches proceeded as scheduled. Though the disciples who had yet to advance muttered privately about the Qingyang Sect's conduct, once on the arena stage, they gave it their all, displaying the resilience and unyielding spirit of cultivators. Haofeng, Limo, Yunche, and the others remained as steadfast as ever. Relying on superior intellect or formidable strength, they defeated opponent after opponent, their path to advancement utterly unimpeded.
A few days later, the final top eight were decided: Haofeng, Limo, Yunche, Hanyue, Chiyan, Shuiling'er, Shawuhen, and Youying. Every single one of these eight was a standout among their respective sects, and their strength was universally acknowledged. At this moment, aside from Yunche, not a single person from the Qingyang Sect remained s…
Chapter 16