When I woke up, I found myself in my room. Everything seemed normal — so normal, in fact, that I thought I might still be dreaming. But that illusion vanished the moment I noticed the bandages wrapped tightly around my stomach.
I lay back down, replaying the memory of that brief but intense battle. His strength and speed were unreal. He had managed to replicate and adapt my every move with terrifying ease.
That's when I knew — without a doubt — that I wanted to become a cultivator. The only problem is that the place where aether is most concentrated is in Australia... and I don't have the money to get there.
A few minutes later, while aimlessly browsing the internet, I stumbled upon a contest — a chance to travel to Australia and begin cultivation training. It was being organized by Canou Gérard, a living legend who reached Rank 6 and is now 150 years old. The tournament pits 300 fighters against one another, and only 100 will be selected to go to Australia. As soon as I saw it, I didn't hesitate — I signed up on the spot.
The event is set to take place in two months. Each contestant will fight three matches. One loss means elimination. We're allowed to use any weapon, as long as it's non-lethal. That gives me two months to prepare — and I've decided to develop an entirely new combat technique.
Three weeks go by. My new style is shaping up well. I train with Joseph, who's also entering the tournament. He fights with a sword, which gives me the perfect opportunity to develop techniques to counter blade-wielding opponents.
A month later, the day finally arrives. Joseph and I just got to the venue.
"You nervous?" I ask.
"No… but look at all these people. Somewhere in there are the three we'll each have to beat to qualify."
"So what?" I say. "You've wanted to be a cultivator for as long as I've known you. Don't waste time worrying about the others. Do you think they're thinking about you? No — they see an opportunity to become stronger. Look into their eyes: some are here for glory, others for personal reasons, and some just want to prove their worth. So stop thinking about them. Focus on your victory — and make sure it becomes real."
After hearing my words, Joseph closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, and says, "Alright… I'm ready. You and I — we'll both make it into the top hundred. Let's do this."
The tournament begins.