In the first round, seven pairs of opponents were identified from the two groups based on having the same grid positions. The female cultivator in the sky ordered these seven pairs to step out. Suddenly, a massive surge of spiritual power emanated from her sedan chair. Lu Yun watched as she rapidly formed hand seals, simultaneously manifesting seven barriers on the field. The other female cultivators at her side then sprang into action, forcing the seven pairs of opponents into these barriers. The expressions on the faces of the contestants varied wildly—some were filled with regret, others with disgust, fear, or defiance, while a few even rubbed their hands together and laughed. Once they entered, the barriers instantly severed all connection between the inside and the outside world. The crowd outside began to murmur, but this time, they were not discussing the Holy Mountain; they were debating who would survive.
"Brother Lu, there is only one path down the mountain. If we three give it our all, escaping should be possible with Commander Heihu," Shunying whispered.
"Hmm?" Lu Yun was taken aback. He knew Shunying was a bit crafty, but he hadn't realized the boy was so meticulous as to have scouted the terrain. However, Lu Yun shook his head. "Don't worry. Since that Feiyun Fairy dared to set this trap for us, she clearly isn't afraid of us running away."
Chapter 451