When the news reached the Sun Moon Empire, Xu Tianran was not in the least bit dissatisfied; instead, his eyes sparkled with an even more intense light of anticipation.
"The Star Luo Empire is getting anxious," Xu Tianran said lazily. "However, they have miscalculated."
Although Xu Tianran did not know much about the Sect forces belonging to the Three Great Empires of the original Douluo Continent, he knew the strength of Xu Tianhao and the others all too well.
Xu Tianran looked up at Xu Tianhao, his tone filled with confidence: "Tianhao, with you leading the team, no matter what tricks those Three Great Empires of the original Douluo Continent try to pull, it will be nothing more than an ant trying to shake a giant tree. There is nothing to fear."
Xu Tianhao smiled upon hearing this: "Don't worry, Big Brother. No matter who the opponent is or how the tournament format changes..."
"...I can lead everyone to defend the champion's throne and let the flag of the Sun Moon Empire fly at the top of the tournament once again."
He was somewhat surprised by the Star Luo Empire's sudden change of the tournament rules.
After all, in the original story he knew, this was a move the Sun Moon Empire would only take five years later.
But that surprise was fleeting, transforming into a thirst for battle.
Soldiers will be blocked by generals, and water will be covered by earth; he would meet every challenge as it came.
It was just a few more matches; it was the perfect opportunity to properly showcase the strength of the Sun Moon Empire.
He naturally understood that the Star Luo Empire's goal was nothing more than gathering more power to try and suppress the Sun Moon Empire's momentum in the tournament.
But in his view, it was nothing more than a futile struggle.
After learning the news of the tournament's innovation, Xu Tianzhen, Long Aotian, and the others had different reactions, but without exception, they were all full of confidence.
Long Aotian sneered, his tone full of disdain: "This kind of little trick only bullies the weak."
"To me, it's just a few more stepping stones. No pressure at all."
The Hongchen Siblings were equally confident: "No matter how many come, we'll beat them all!"
"It's the perfect time to let those people from the Three Great Empires of the original Douluo Continent understand that times have changed. We are the Dominators of the new generation!"
Xu Tianzhen came to Xu Tianhao's side and giggled: "The more people they have, the more sense of achievement we'll have when we win, and the more it will demonstrate the power of our Sun Moon Empire!"
Holy light flickered in Ye Guyi's eyes: "It is time for the radiance of the Angel to bloom once again on the original Douluo Continent."
"All those who dare to try and obstruct us will bow down before the Angel's light!"
Nana also said, "My Nether Spirit Master also thirsts for more Souls. I want all my opponents to understand the meaning of despair!"
Xu Tianhao looked at the passionate crowd before him, a gratified smile flashing in his eyes: "Seeing everyone so confident, I am relieved."
...
Two and a half months slipped away amidst the Sun Moon Empire's Spirit Masters' intense Cultivation and preparations.
With only half a month left until the official opening of the highly anticipated All-Continent Elite Soul Master Combat Competition.
Mingdu was currently permeated with a tense yet enthusiastic atmosphere.
In front of the Sun Moon Royal Soul Engineer Academy, a well-organized Seven-Person Squad was ready to depart.
The core of the squad was none other than the Sixth Prince of the Sun Moon Empire, Xu Tianhao.
The seven wore uniform Sun Moon Empire team attire, their robes embroidered with golden patterns symbolizing the glory of the sun and moon, fully displaying the extraordinary bearing of the Sun Moon Empire's new generation of Spirit Masters.
This session of the All-Continent High-Level Soul Master Academy Elite Tournament had undergone an unprecedented transformation.
The tournament had been renamed; it was no longer limited to the participation of various Spirit Master academies but had also opened its doors to the various Sect forces on the Douluo Continent.
The significant expansion of the participant lineup doubled the intensity of the competition, causing some worry within the hearts of the Sun Moon Empire's citizens and the imperial court.
After all, the Three Great Empires originally belonging to the Douluo Continent had long-standing grievances with the Sun Moon Empire.
Now that the major Sects were entering the fray with such force, it undoubtedly made this tournament even more dangerous.
A single misstep could lead to a crushing defeat.
However, this worry was instantly diluted by full anticipation and support upon learning that the Sixth Prince, Xu Tianhao, would personally lead the team.
The citizens of Mingdu who came to see the team off crowded around the city gates until not a drop of water could trickle through.
They waved Sun Moon Empire flags in their hands, shouting slogans of encouragement in unison; wave after wave of sound echoed through the clouds.
Whether they were noble children in fine clothing or ordinary citizens living their daily lives, pride and expectation were written all over their faces.
They sent their most enthusiastic cheers and blessings to the departing Sun Moon Team.
Using the most direct method to cheer for these youths who carried the Empire's glory on their shoulders.
The scale of the Sun Moon Empire team's departure was no less grand than when Crown Prince Xu Tianran personally led the team five years ago.
In fact, due to the higher tournament standards and the power of the new generation team, the atmosphere was even more enthusiastic and solemn.
The people of Mingdu spontaneously took to the streets to see them off, throwing countless flowers and ribbons into the air, which fell upon the team members.
Everywhere in Mingdu was a scene of jubilation, manifesting the Sun Moon Empire's unified determination to look forward to the news of victory.
To show the Empire's emphasis on this tournament and to boost the morale of the departing youths, Crown Prince Xu Tianran personally led the civil and military officials, waiting early at the gates of Mingdu.
Dressed in his Crown Prince robes, Xu Tianran stood tall with a dignified expression, naturally exuding the majestic Aura of someone in a high position.
He looked at the Sun Moon Empire teams ready to depart, his eyes full of expectation.
Accompanying him were the pillars of the Sun Moon Empire: Hall Master of Mingde Hall Jing Hongchen, and the core pillar of the Sun Moon Empire, Kong Deming.
The two top powerhouses would depart with the team, providing protection throughout the journey.
Their purpose was singular: to ensure the safety of Xu Tianhao and the entire team, eliminating all hidden dangers.
Xu Tianran walked slowly to Xu Tianhao and reached out, gently patting his younger brother's shoulder.
His gaze was deep and his tone solemn: "Tianhao, this expedition carries the supreme glory of my Sun Moon Empire. I will wait for your triumphant return in Mingdu."
Feeling the strength on his shoulder and his brother's trust, a confident and calm smile appeared on Xu Tianhao's lips.
Xu Tianhao responded with powerful words: "Don't worry, Big Brother. In this All-Continent Elite Soul Master Combat Competition, I will definitely lead the team to give our all and live up to your earnest expectations."
"I will not fail the high hopes of the millions of citizens of the Sun Moon Empire; I will surely bring back the glory that belongs to us."
Xu Tianran looked at his high-spirited brother and nodded with satisfaction. His gaze swept over the Seven-Person Squad behind him, and his tone suddenly became stirring.
With the pride and dominance of the Sun Moon Empire, Xu Tianran said loudly: "Go, gallop across the arena, and overcome all obstacles."
"Carry our expectations, let the radiance of the Sun and Moon shine once again on the Douluo Continent, and let everyone see the strength of my Sun Moon Empire!"