The eastern meditation garden was quieter than usual when Lin Feng arrived that evening. Most tournament attendees had already departed, returning to their respective sects with victories celebrated or defeats analyzed. Only a few cultivators remained—those with political business to conclude or personal reasons to linger.
Yun Qingxue waited in their usual meeting spot, the familiar pagoda providing shelter and privacy. Formation barriers she'd established ensured their conversation wouldn't be overheard, though her ice-blue robes made concealment somewhat pointless—the Ice Goddess was recognizable even from a distance.
"You look better than I expected," she observed as Lin Feng approached. "Still exhausted, but mobile. The medical treatment has been effective."
"Three more days until full recovery. But functional enough for important conversations." He settled beside her, their proximity closer than public propriety normally allowed but justified by the privacy formations. "What do we need to discuss that couldn't wait until I was fully healed?"
"The Frozen Sky Sect evaluation. It's happening in twelve days now—they moved the schedule forward." Yun Qingxue's expression showed concern beneath her usual composure. "My sect's elders are... eager to assess you. Your tournament performance accelerated their timeline."
"Because I demonstrated Cloud Transformation potential?"
"Because you demonstrated exceptional capability while being young enough that they believe they can influence your development." She drew a jade slip from her robes and handed it to him. "This contains information about the evaluation process. What to expect, who will be present, what they'll be testing."
Lin Feng channeled spiritual energy into the slip, absorbing the detailed intelligence. The evaluation would involve multiple components—combat assessment against Frozen Sky disciples, cultivation foundation examination, philosophical discussions about dao comprehension, even political acumen testing through simulated scenarios.
"This is remarkably comprehensive," he commented. "They're not just evaluating whether I'm worthy of you. They're assessing whether I'm worth investing in regardless of our relationship."
"Correct. If they conclude you have genuine elite potential, they'll want to secure your loyalty even if they disapprove of our Dao Companion bond." Yun Qingxue's voice carried frustration. "Everything is transactional at their level. Personal relationships matter only as much as they serve sect interests."
"Then I'll prove I'm worth their investment. Through combat performance, cultivation demonstration, and political acumen." Lin Feng studied the evaluation details carefully. "Though some of these tests seem designed to be impossible. Combat against multiple Frozen Sky disciples simultaneously? Foundation examination by Immortal Emperor level evaluators? These aren't tests—they're gauntlets."
"They want to see how you handle overwhelming pressure. Whether you maintain composure when outmatched. If your potential is genuine or just tournament performance enhanced by favorable matchups." She moved closer, her hand finding his. "Lin Feng, I should warn you—some elders will actively try to break you. Not physically, but psychologically. They'll push until you crack, say something inappropriate, reveal weaknesses they can exploit."
"Why? If they genuinely want to assess my potential, why sabotage the evaluation?"
"Because some elders disapprove of my choosing anyone as Dao Companion. They believe the Ice Goddess should remain unattached, focused purely on sect advancement and cultivation." Yun Qingxue's eyes held anger carefully controlled. "They'll use this evaluation to try proving you're unworthy, justifying their belief that I made a mistake."
Lin Feng processed this information while watching moonlight reflect off the meditation pond. Politics within major sects were even more complicated than he'd realized. His relationship with Yun Qingxue wasn't just personal matter—it was factional conflict within Frozen Sky Sect leadership.
"Tell me about the factions. Who supports us? Who opposes? Who might be convinced either way?"
They spent two hours discussing Frozen Sky Sect's internal politics. Yun Qingxue identified key elders—those sympathetic to her choosing a Dao Companion, those actively hostile, those pragmatic enough to support whatever served sect interests.
"Grand Elder Bingxin is your best potential ally," Yun Qingxue explained. "She believes strong Dao Companion bonds enhance cultivation rather than distract from it. If you impress her during evaluation, she'll advocate for accepting you."
"And the hostile faction?"
"Led by Elder Xuanbing. He's... traditional. Believes the Ice Goddess should be untouchable, above mortal relationships. He'll do everything possible to prove you're unworthy without technically violating evaluation protocols." Her expression darkened. "Be especially careful around him. He's skilled at psychological manipulation."
"Noted. Anyone else I should be aware of?"
"The Patriarch herself will be present but won't participate directly in evaluation. She'll observe and make final determination based on elders' assessments." Yun Qingxue's voice softened. "My mother is pragmatic above all else. Prove you're valuable to the sect and she'll support our relationship regardless of personal feelings."
Lin Feng absorbed this revelation. "Your mother is the Frozen Sky Sect Patriarch? You never mentioned that."
"It's complicated. Our relationship is... professional more than familial. She raised me to be the Ice Goddess first, her daughter second." Something like old pain flickered across Yun Qingxue's face. "But that works to our advantage. She'll evaluate you objectively rather than emotionally."
They continued planning late into the night. Yun Qingxue provided intelligence about specific tests, potential questions, even recommendations for cultivation demonstration techniques that would impress evaluators without revealing capabilities Lin Feng wanted kept hidden.
"Show your void domain but not the full Eternal Void manifestation," she advised. "Demonstrate perfect meridians through sustained technique application. Let them examine your foundation but keep the Heart of Void's existence concealed—that's too valuable to reveal until necessary."
"Agreed. Strategic disclosure rather than complete transparency."
As midnight approached, they finally exhausted immediate planning topics. Yun Qingxue stood, preparing to depart, but hesitated.
"Lin Feng, regardless of how the evaluation proceeds, I want you to know—my choice stands. If the sect rejects you, I'll... I'll find another path forward. Our Dao Companion bond isn't negotiable."
"Let's hope it doesn't come to that. I'd rather have your sect's support than force you into impossible choices." He stood as well, embracing her briefly. "Twelve days. I'll be ready."
"I know you will. You're always ready when it matters."
After she departed, Lin Feng made his way back to his quarters. The tournament grounds were nearly deserted now, most temporary structures already being dismantled. In a few days, this place would return to its normal peaceful existence, tournament excitement faded into memory.
But for Lin Feng, the consequences of tournament success were just beginning.
The next morning brought departure preparations. Celestial Dawn Sect members packed belongings, said farewells to cultivators from other sects, and prepared for the journey home. The atmosphere was celebratory—they'd exceeded all expectations, with Lin Feng reaching quarter-finals and Zhao Hai making it to the same round before losing to eventual finalist.
"Celestial Dawn Sect will be discussed across the Eastern Continent for months," Elder Yuan commented while overseeing departure logistics. "Our reputation has been enhanced immeasurably. Recruitment to the sect will increase. Resources and opportunities will expand. All because two disciples demonstrated exceptional capability."
"Three disciples," Lin Feng corrected. "Xiao Ling coordinated support staff perfectly. Her organizational skills were critical to our success."
"Indeed. She's proven herself invaluable." Elder Yuan's expression showed satisfaction. "Which is why the Patriarch is promoting her to inner disciple status with expanded responsibilities. Foundation Establishment Level 8 with exceptional management abilities—she's earned it."
Xiao Ling herself appeared then, somehow managing to coordinate final departure preparations while also ensuring Lin Feng had everything he needed.
"Stop trying to help pack," she scolded when Lin Feng attempted lifting his own storage items. "You're still recovering from spiritual energy depletion. Let others handle physical labor."
"I'm not an invalid."
"No, you're a quarter-finalist who fought Cloud Transformation Level 1 to genuine stalemate and nearly killed yourself manifesting impossible techniques. Which means you rest and recover while others handle mundane tasks." Her tone brooked no argument. "Besides, you need to conserve energy for the journey home and subsequent Frozen Sky evaluation."
"You know about that?"
"Everyone knows about that. Well, everyone paying attention to cultivation world politics." Xiao Ling's expression became more serious. "Lin Feng, the whole Eastern Continent is watching to see how Frozen Sky Sect handles your relationship with their Ice Goddess. It's unprecedented—normally she'd choose someone from within their sect or remain unattached. You being from a minor sect makes this politically complicated."
"I'm beginning to understand just how complicated."
"Then understand this too—you have support. Not just from our sect but from unexpected quarters. Several major sects have sent messages indicating they view your relationship with Lady Yun favorably. They see it as evidence that talent matters more than political connections." She smiled. "You've become a symbol of something larger than yourself. Don't let that pressure crush you, but use it when advantageous."
The departure from tournament grounds took most of the morning. Various sect representatives approached Lin Feng with final congratulations, subtle recruitment pitches, or requests for future contact. He handled each interaction with careful diplomacy, committing to nothing while maintaining positive relationships.
Li Xian notably avoided him entirely—the Azure Sky young master departed early with his entourage, clearly still processing his humiliating finals defeat.
"Good riddance," Zhao Hai muttered, watching Li Xian's group leave. "Hopefully we won't see him again for a long time."
"We'll see him again," Lin Feng predicted. "People like Li Xian don't forget perceived slights. He'll train obsessively, advance his cultivation, and eventually seek confrontation to restore his damaged pride."
"Then we'll be ready when he does."
The journey back to Celestial Dawn Sect took three days by flying formation. Lin Feng spent most of the travel time in cultivation, recovering his spiritual energy and consolidating lessons learned during the tournament. His foundation felt stronger now—combat against superior opponents had refined his techniques and deepened his understanding of void principles.
Divine Domain Level 4 consolidated. Ready to begin working toward Level 5 once fully recovered. The path forward is clear—continue advancing until Cloud Transformation becomes achievable.
Five years. That's the timeline Feng Chen suggested. Five years until our rematch at comparable power levels.
I can do that. Will do that.
On the second day of travel, Elder Yuan called Lin Feng to a private conversation within the flying formation's secure area.
"We need to discuss what happens when we return to the sect. Your status has changed dramatically—you're no longer anonymous outer disciple but recognized elite talent." The elder's expression was serious. "This brings responsibilities and expectations that extend beyond personal cultivation."
"What kind of responsibilities?"
"Teaching younger disciples. Representing the sect at diplomatic functions. Participating in strategic planning for sect defense and expansion." Elder Yuan listed items systematically. "The Patriarch wants to promote you to inner disciple with Elder mentorship. This would give you access to better cultivation resources and direct instruction from sect leadership."
"That's generous. But wouldn't it create resentment among disciples who've been inner sect longer?"
"Possibly. Which is why the promotion will be framed as recognition for tournament performance rather than favoritism." Elder Yuan's eyes showed approval of Lin Feng thinking about political implications. "You'll need to be humble about the advancement. Acknowledge the honor while showing respect for senior disciples who've served the sect longer."
"I can do that."
"Good. Also, the Patriarch wants you to lead a team investigating potential Crimson Empress infiltration within our sect." The elder's voice dropped lower. "Your tournament exposure drew attention, including from hostile forces. We need to verify our internal security before those forces act against us."
Lin Feng felt tension coil in his chest. "You think the Crimson Empress has agents within Celestial Dawn Sect?"
"We think it's possible. Three of our outer disciples have displayed behavior changes consistent with Blood Path corruption. Could be coincidence. Could be deliberate infiltration taking advantage of our increased prominence." Elder Yuan's expression was grim. "We need someone with your perceptiveness and void cultivation sensitivity to investigate without alerting potential infiltrators."
"When do we start?"
"After you've fully recovered from tournament injuries. Another week of rest, then we begin quiet investigation." The elder paused. "Lin Feng, this is dangerous work. If we've been infiltrated, the agents will be skilled at concealment and prepared to defend themselves violently when discovered."
"I understand. But if our sect has been compromised, we need to know and act accordingly."
They talked for another hour about investigation protocols, potential suspects, and security measures for conducting the operation safely. By the time Lin Feng returned to the main formation area, his mind churned with new concerns.
Tournament success brought opportunities. But also attracted hostile attention. The Crimson Empress sees rising talents as threats to neutralize or resources to corrupt.
Need to stay vigilant. Trust carefully. Assume infiltration until proven otherwise.
The sect came into view on the third day—familiar buildings, training grounds, and meditation gardens that represented home despite Lin Feng's relatively short time there. Several hundred disciples waited to welcome returning tournament participants with formal ceremony.
Patriarch Cloud Heaven stood at the forefront, his Cloud Transformation Level 7 presence radiating authority and satisfaction. Behind him, sect elders arrayed in hierarchical positioning, their expressions showing varying degrees of pride and calculation.
The formal welcome ceremony was brief but meaningful. The Patriarch acknowledged Celestial Dawn's tournament success, specifically recognizing Lin Feng's quarter-final achievement and Zhao Hai's impressive performance. Other returning disciples were praised for their efforts even if eliminated early.
"Today we celebrate not just tournament results but proof of our sect's quality," Cloud Heaven's voice carried across the gathering. "Let these achievements inspire all disciples to pursue excellence in their cultivation and conduct."
Applause followed, genuine enthusiasm from disciples who'd watched tournament matches through formation projections and felt pride in their sect's representatives.
After ceremony concluded, Lin Feng finally returned to his quarters—the same rooms he'd occupied since advancing from servant status. They felt both familiar and somehow insufficient now. He'd grown beyond these modest accommodations, though he'd never say so aloud.
Change is coming. Promotion to inner disciple. Access to better resources. Responsibilities beyond personal cultivation. All consequences of tournament success.
But first, recovery. Full healing from spiritual energy depletion and preparation for Frozen Sky evaluation.
He settled into deep cultivation, drawing on the Inverse Void Dao's principles, feeling void energy circulate through perfect meridians. The Heart of Void pulsed contentedly, as if satisfied with tournament outcomes despite quarter-final defeat.
Over the following week, Lin Feng focused on recovery and preparation. He trained with Mei She to refine techniques that would impress Frozen Sky evaluators. Studied sect politics with Elder Yuan to understand factional dynamics. Even consulted with the Patriarch about philosophical dao comprehension questions likely to arise during evaluation.
"The key to impressing Frozen Sky elders is demonstrating both power and wisdom," Cloud Heaven advised during one preparation session. "They value strength, yes, but also cultivators who understand when to fight and when to yield. Show them you're not just talented but teachable."
"Teachable but confident?"
"Precisely. Humble enough to acknowledge superior knowledge while confident enough to defend your positions when challenged." The Patriarch's expression showed paternal concern. "Lin Feng, this evaluation matters enormously. Not just for your relationship with Lady Yun but for your entire future path. If Frozen Sky Sect accepts you, opportunities expand dramatically. If they reject you, life becomes significantly more complicated."
"I understand the stakes. I'll be ready."
"I know you will. You're always ready when it matters."
The phrase echoed what Yun Qingxue had said. Lin Feng found comfort in their shared confidence even as pressure mounted.
Through the Dao Thread, he maintained constant connection with Yun Qingxue. She provided daily updates about Frozen Sky Sect preparations, identified which elders would be present, even shared sample questions from previous evaluations.
Five days until we travel to Frozen Sky territory. How are you feeling? Her presence through the bond carried concern.
Nervous but prepared. Your intelligence about the evaluation process has been invaluable.
Good. Because I received final confirmation—all twelve elders will be present. Including Elder Xuanbing who opposes our relationship. Her emotions through the bond showed frustration. He's been lobbying other elders to reject you regardless of performance. Claims no outsider should be accepted as the Ice Goddess's Dao Companion.
Then I'll have to be so impressive he can't justify rejection even if he wants to.
That's the spirit. Arrogant confidence tempered by strategic awareness. You'll do fine.
On the evening before departure, Lin Feng received an unexpected visitor—Mei She, carrying what appeared to be carefully wrapped package.
"This is for you. For the Frozen Sky evaluation." She handed him the package. "Don't open it until you're there. But when the moment comes where you need to demonstrate something exceptional, use what's inside."
"What is it?"
"A technique scroll. Something I've never shown anyone else. It's void-cultivation specific and will complement your existing abilities perfectly." Mei She's expression was uncharacteristically serious. "Lin Feng, I've trained you as well as I can. The rest is up to you. But know that I have complete confidence in your capabilities."
"Thank you, Master Mei. For everything you've taught me."
"Just don't embarrass me by failing this evaluation. I have a reputation to maintain." But her smile took the edge off the words.
That night, Lin Feng barely slept. Too many thoughts, too much pressure, too many potential outcomes swirling through his mind. Instead he cultivated through the darkness, preparing body and soul for the challenge ahead.
Tomorrow. Journey to Frozen Sky Sect territory. Two days travel, then the evaluation begins.
Everything I've achieved leads to this moment. Tournament success, cultivation advancement, relationship with Qingxue—all of it culminates in proving myself worthy to one of the continent's most powerful sects.
No pressure at all.
Through his window, the Trinity Mirror appeared—eighth sighting in recent weeks. Whatever the heavens were observing was accelerating toward culmination.
Lin Feng didn't know if that was good fortune or terrible omen.
Guess I'll find out soon enough.
He continued cultivating through the night, preparing for the journey and evaluation that would determine so much about his future.
Ready or not, tomorrow would come.
And with it, the greatest test of his young life.
TO BE CONTINUED IN CHAPTER 35: THE FROZEN SKY