Chapter 63
The assembly hall of the Feng Clan was a grand structure, adorned with towering red pillars and intricate golden carvings that spoke of the clan’s centuries-old heritage. A massive jade chandelier, infused with soft spiritual light, illuminated the vast chamber, casting an ethereal glow on the polished stone floors.
The hall was filled with members of the Feng Clan, from elders in their ceremonial robes to younger disciples who had come to witness the conclusion of the tournament. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation.
Feng Jiao Xue joined those who entered the top ten. To make sure that no one covets whatever the winners have won, this gathering is always held in private and only members of the clancan come so that the resources of the clan will stay a hidden card to outsiders. So, the participants chatters amongst themselves while Feng Jiao Xue stood at the side with her expression closed off.
At the center of it all, seated upon an elevated throne-like chair, was Feng Haotian, the head of the clan. His sharp gaze swept across the hall before settling on the ten victors who had fought their way to the top.
Among them his eyes trailed over to Feng Jiao Xue who stood tall despite her presence reduced. Like that of a shadow,you know its there yet so easily ignored or forgotten. With her expression remained unreadable, a quiet intensity burned in her silver eyes.
Fng Jiao Xue met his eyes firm and resolute, not backing down. ’She had won. Yet, victory was not the end, it was merely the beginning.’
Feg Haotian’s gaze turned complicated for a brief moment, like a whirpool stirred within his eyes. His heart panged with guilt, sadness and proudness before it was engulfed by the cold, aching pain.
He turned his head towards the other victors and gave them all the proud smile. "You have made the clan proud with the strength and powers you showcased. Each and everyone of you here is one of the clan’s brightest flames. The future of our home, of our name, rests in all of your shoulders and it is my pleasure to say, you have not failed to meet the expectation laid upon you. This battles was once held to encourage our youths to train harder, to be better. In those chaotic times, it made sure our youths survives and in this time of peace, it ensures that they strive." He looked each of them in the eye, his gaze quickly averting when it was Feng Jiao Xue turn as his smile froze and the corner of his lips fell for the briefest seconds before he continued to speak. "Congratulations on showing everyone what it meant to be a member of the Feng Clan, you have showed them your brilliance and with your flames, the clan will surely burn brighter!"
One of the elders, Elder Feng Jian, stepped forward as Feng Haotian moved back, his aged features carrying both wisdom and authority. His long silver beard swayed as he addressed the assembly.
"The Feng Clan Tournament has come to an end, and today, we honor the strongest among us" he declared, his voice steady and reverberating through the hall. "These ten cultivators have proven their worth and surpassing their peers through sheer will and ability."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the hall. The tournament had been brutal filled with unexpected upsets and unforgettable clashes.