Crimson Sky Sect – Outer Training Grounds
Sparks flew as blades clashed. The training field was filled with rising disciples, their eyes glued to the three figures at the center—Lohan, Winter, and Raze.
> "They're monsters…" one student muttered.
The trio had turned the once-barren field into a storm zone. Lohan stood calmly, holding a wooden training sword—yet no one could land a hit. Raze, now wielding twin flame daggers, moved like wildfire. Winter, dressed in pale blue robes, held back only because Lohan told her to.
But this was no training.
This was a message.
Every sect elder, noble spy, and hidden observer could feel it: war was coming. And the man at the center of it all wasn't hiding anymore.
---
Meanwhile – Temple of Echoing Light
Justine sat alone inside her sanctified hall. Dozens of holy weapons floated behind her, humming softly with divine energy.
Her hand hovered over one in particular—a blade once gifted to her by Lohan himself.
> "You used to smile when you held this," a voice echoed.
"What happened to you, Justine?"
A projection shimmered to life. It was a memory—Lohan, in his prime, laughing beside her.
She crushed it.
> "Don't haunt me with your kindness," she whispered. "You're not that man anymore. And I'm no longer your student."
With a wave, she summoned her generals—ten divine apostles, clad in celestial armor.
> "Prepare the Vanguard. We'll descend at the Grand Tournament."
---
Back at the Sect
Raze collapsed onto the grass, panting.
> "Man, even your training is torture," he groaned. "What are you? Some battle god in disguise?"
Lohan didn't answer. His gaze was fixed toward the horizon.
> "They're coming. All of them."
Winter approached quietly.
> "Will we survive?"
> "I didn't come back to survive," Lohan replied.
"I came back to win."
---
Far North – Capital of the Holy Empire
A prophecy echoed across ancient shrines:
> The fire that once devoured heaven will rise again, cloaked in mortal flesh.
Gods will fall. Towers will crumble.
The traitor will face judgment—by the flame she betrayed.
---