CHAPTER 79 — WHEN THE SPEAR DOES NOT HESITATE
The arena of Vermillion Phoenix Academy did not sleep.
It waited.
Heat rippled faintly above the stone floor, restrained by formations carved so deep into the plateau that even veteran cultivators could only sense them as a distant, patient presence. Crimson banners hung high, phoenix sigils glowing dimly, as if watching from above.
Every seat was filled.
Every eye was sharp.
This was not a normal match day.
This was the first execution of Stage Three.
FORMAT TWO — WHEN FIRE MEETS ICE
Before Azure Dragon's name was ever spoken, the announcer's voice thundered across the arena.
"FORMAT TWO MATCH—NOW COMMENCING!"
The crowd roared instantly.
On one side of the arena stood Vermillion Phoenix Academy.
On the other—
FROSTCLOUD ACADEMY.
The contrast was striking.
