Lu stepped onto the platform once more, his tone lively and ceremonial, the excitement in his voice echoing across the quieting arena.
"Thank you to all the disciples and elders for attending the tournament," he began. "And now… the moment you've all been waiting for — the reward ceremony!"
The crowd stirred like a pot about to boil over.
Disciples — especially those who had participated — perked up immediately, their eyes gleaming with excitement.
At the very least, they weren't walking away empty-handed.
"The top four finalists will receive special rewards," Lu continued, his voice imbuded with spiritual energy.
"And since both finalists were from the Outer Hall, I now invite Outer Hall Master Yu Baishi to do the honors."
From the elevated elder seating, Yu Baishi descended slowly, floating with practiced ease.
His hands were clasped behind his back, his beard swayed in the breeze, and a smug grin was plastered across his face.
He was enjoying this moment far too much.
