Dong!
From outside the teahouse, toward the north of the capital, a deep, ancient bell tolled, echoing endlessly.
At the sound of the bell, everyone inside and outside the teahouse stood mesmerized.
This was the New Year's bell, and simultaneously, the Immortal Alliance's signal declaring the opening ceremony of the annual martial tournament.
The bell chimed three times. The disciples in the teahouse rose to their feet, and the crowds wandering the streets all surged in the same direction.
"Yuyan, the tournament is starting. We need to go draw lots."
"I heard the drawing ceremony this year is grander than ever. Tonight, the White Dragon Empress from the Dragon Palace will personally take the stage to host... And the disciple who wins the crown will receive a mysterious grand prize bestowed personally by Her Majesty?"
Zhihan smiled, downing the dregs of her tea. She stood up, hugging the sealed Primordial divine sword to her chest.
The other three followed suit.
"Mm, indeed."
