A few heartbeats passed in silence before Yu Changming finally looked up from his talisman.
His expression remained calm, but the weight of his gaze silenced even the faint rustling of robes.
"Let us begin," he said, his voice carrying quiet authority.
"As you all know, today’s council has been called to finalize the details of my daughter’s tenth birthday."
He paused for dramatic effect.
"The Awakening Ceremony."
A ripple of murmurs passed through the chamber.
Elder Yu Ying, seated to the Patriarch’s left, adjusted her sleeves and spoke first.
"As expected, her awakening will attract attention, even if we keep it internal. Are we still proceeding with the decision to limit invitations?"
Yu Changming gave a firm nod.
"Yes. No guests from outside the clan."
"Good," said Second Elder Wu Jinhai.
"It’s best to keep our cards close. If even half the rumors about Lingluo’s physique are true, it’s better not to give outsiders a glimpse."
Several elders nodded in agreement.
Third Elder Mo Jian stroked his beard thoughtfully.
"Still, the ceremony should be grand. Not for show, but for unity."
"Indeed," added Elder Zhu Gan, unfurling the scroll in his lap.
"Our younger disciples have grown complacent. They need a reminder of what real talent looks like."
Yu Changming set aside his talisman, interlocking his fingers atop his knee.
"That is why I propose we include a formal competition during the event."
This time, no one murmured.
"...A competition?" Elder Xue Rong asked, raising an eyebrow. "Between clan juniors?"
"Yes. An internal martial tournament, open to branch families and direct descendants — ages eight to thirteen."
Elder Yu Ying leaned forward, intrigued. "A public trial. You want to test their growth?"
"And inspire it," he replied. "The duels will serve as both assessment and celebration."
"What of rewards?" Mo Jian asked.
Yu Changming allowed himself a faint smile. "The top three will receive access to advanced cultivation resources, public recognition by the Clan Head, and the opportunity to become a personal disciple to an Elder."
Elder Wu Jinhai smirked. "Now you’re just baiting the tigers."
"Better they bite in the arena," Yu Ying added dryly, "than sharpen claws in the dark."
Soft laughter rippled through the room.
Yu Changming continued, "Let this mark the beginning of a tradition. One that hones the next generation and encourages competition in the light."
Elder Zhu Gan cleared his throat. "And what of the young miss? Will Lingluo take part?"
"She may," came a new voice — calm, melodic.
The elders turned as Huan Lianhua entered, her figure as graceful as flowing moonlight.
"If Lingluo feels ready after her awakening, I won’t stop her," she said, walking to stand beside her husband.
The air in the room shifted once more.
A child awakening a physique was not the same as an ordinary genius.
"Very well," Yu Changming said.
"We proceed as planned. The Awakening Ceremony will be held and only clan members will attend."
He stood, robes cascading around him like mist.
"The internal tournament will take place immediately after the ceremony. Prepare the arena. Ready the juniors."
His gaze swept over the room, firm and expectant.
"I want talent — not tantrums."
The elders rose as one.
And with that, the decision was sealed.
Word would soon spread through every courtyard and pavilion:
A great competition was coming.
Yu Lingluo, daughter of the clan head, was set to awaken.
And every youth who once thought themselves talented...
...would now be forced to prove it.
After all, what better gift for a ten-year-old genius — than a battlefield?