The grand outer stone arena was surrounded by packed tiers of spectators as the quarterfinal stage of the Copper Leaf Trials commenced under the bright morning sky. Only sixteen fighters remained across the four sectors, representing the absolute peak of the upper outer disciple division. Senior Proctor Lin stood at the high observation desk, his slate robes draped over his shoulders while he reviewed the quarterfinal pairings recorded on the official parchment ledger.
Ye Chen stepped through the rusted iron gateway into the center of the ring, carrying his plain iron sword in its boiled leather scabbard across his back. His external aura remained locked firmly at Body Tempering Stage 5 behind the dark violet bands of the Crystalline Shackle, preserving his established cover as a lucky co
