NOVEL ONLINE FREE Chapter 10: Chapter 10: The Skyfire Challenge
The morning sun rose over Heaven Dou City, casting a golden glow on the grand coliseum. The Shrek team assembled early, preparing for their match against Skyfire Academy. Known for their powerful aerial tactics and wind-based martial spirits, Skyfire posed a unique challenge.
Lin Tian addressed the team with calm authority. "Skyfire Academy will use the battlefield to their advantage, controlling the air to suppress us. We must neutralize their mobility and force them into close combat, where their weakness lies."
Tang San stepped forward. "My Blue Silver Grass can create traps to restrict their flight. But we'll need to lure them into those zones."
Lin Tian nodded. "Good. Rongrong, amplify our defenses and speed. Zhuqing, focus on disrupting their support units. Yue'er and I will handle their captain."
The team members exchanged determined glances. Despite the increasing difficulty of their matches, their bond had grown stronger with each challenge.
---
The Skyfire Formation
The coliseum was buzzing with excitement as the announcer introduced the teams.
"On one side, we have the rising stars of Shrek Academy! And on the other, the masters of the skies—Skyfire Academy!"
As the two teams entered the arena, the crowd erupted in cheers. The Skyfire team stood tall, their confident smirks reflecting their reputation as one of the tournament's strongest contenders.
Their captain, a silver-haired youth named Feng Xuan, stepped forward. His aura exuded pride and power. "Shrek Academy, I've heard of your victories. But the sky is our domain. Let's see how well you can fight when grounded."
Lin Tian met his gaze without flinching. "Words won't win this battle. Show me what you've got."
The referee raised his hand. "Let the match begin!"
---
A Battle in the Skies
Skyfire Academy wasted no time, their members taking to the air with ease. Their wind-based abilities allowed them to maneuver swiftly, raining attacks from above. Feng Xuan summoned a powerful Gale Hawk, its wings whipping up sharp winds that forced the Shrek team to scatter.
Tang San acted quickly, his Blue Silver Grass shooting upward to form a net. The grass swayed like tendrils, reaching for the airborne opponents. One of the Skyfire members was caught off guard, ensnared and pulled to the ground.
Zhu Zhuqing capitalized on the opportunity, her claws glowing with energy as she struck the trapped opponent, forcing them out of the match.
Feng Xuan frowned. "Impressive. But let's see how you handle this!"
He raised his hand, summoning a massive whirlwind that swept across the arena. The Shrek team struggled to maintain their footing, the powerful winds threatening to lift them off the ground.
Lin Tian activated his Starfire Domain, stabilizing the area around him and neutralizing the winds. "Is that all you've got, Feng Xuan?"
Feng Xuan growled, his hawk diving toward Lin Tian with razor-sharp talons. Lin Tian raised his Divine Celestial Sword, meeting the attack head-on. The collision of energy created a shockwave that rippled through the arena.
---
Turning the Tide
While Lin Tian kept Feng Xuan occupied, Yue'er focused on the Skyfire team's supports. Her Moonlit Guardian ability allowed her to move silently, her strikes precise and devastating. One by one, the support members were forced out of the match.
Meanwhile, Tang San used his Blue Silver Grass to create a dome around the arena, limiting the Skyfire team's flight paths. Rongrong's enhancements boosted the team's speed, allowing Dai Mubai to charge forward and deliver a powerful strike that sent another opponent crashing to the ground.
The tide of the battle shifted in Shrek Academy's favor.
---
The Final Clash
Feng Xuan, now the last remaining member of Skyfire Academy, refused to back down. He unleashed his ultimate ability, Storm King's Descent, summoning a massive tempest that filled the arena. Lightning crackled through the storm as he launched a series of powerful strikes at Lin Tian.
Lin Tian remained calm, his aura glowing brighter with every passing second. "You've fought well, Feng Xuan. But this is where it ends."
He raised his sword, channeling his energy into a single, devastating attack. Starfire Nova Strike erupted from his blade, cutting through the storm and striking Feng Xuan directly.
The storm dissipated, and Feng Xuan fell to the ground, defeated.
The referee raised his hand. "The winner is Shrek Academy!"
---
A Shadow in the Crowd
As the crowd erupted in cheers, Lin Tian scanned the audience. Among the sea of faces, he spotted a cloaked figure watching intently. The figure's eyes met his, a glimmer of malice evident before they disappeared into the shadows.
Yue'er noticed his distraction. "Master, is it Spirit Hall again?"
Lin Tian nodded. "They're getting bolder. We'll need to stay one step ahead."
---
A Growing Reputation
Back at their quarters, the Shrek team celebrated their victory. Tang San approached Lin Tian, a thoughtful expression on his face.
"Each match is revealing more of our abilities," Tang San said. "It's only a matter of time before Spirit Hall makes their move."
Lin Tian's gaze was firm. "Let them come. We're not just fighting for ourselves—we're fighting for everyone who believes in us."
As the night deepened, Lin Tian stood alone, gazing at the stars. His journey was far from over, but he was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.
To Be Continued...