Shu Yan stirred, her eyelids fluttering open. Exhaustion clung to her like a shroud, a stark reminder of the unexpected intensity of the previous night.
"Oh, so you're awake," I said, my voice calm as I observed her.
"Y-yeah," she mumbled, her gaze still hazy.
"Dress up," I instructed gently. "We'll go outside and explore the area."
A flicker of surprise crossed her face, but she nodded slowly. "Ok."
She moved with a languid grace, her fiery red hair cascading around her shoulders as she donned her garments.
"I'm done," she announced, her usual sharp tone softened by lingering weariness.
"From now on, you are my second wife," I stated, the words matter-of-fact.
"Yeah," she replied, her golden eyes narrowing slightly. "But don't get excited thinking that just because I'm your wife, you can do anything you want. If my family finds out their Princess is now someone's wife, they will come to kill you. Don't come begging me to stop my family members then."
A soft chime echoed in my mind.
> "Ding"
> Host, you have finally made Shu Yan your companion, so reward are given to you.
> You have received a Top-Tier Swordsmanship Knowledge.
The knowledge flooded my mind, an intricate understanding of blade techniques, stances, and philosophies that felt both ancient and instinctively familiar.
Wow, that is amazing, I thought to the system, a genuine thrill coursing through me.
"Do you think they will come and leave me safely?" I asked Shu Yan, a hint of steel entering my voice. "I'll kill all of them if they dare to threaten what's mine."
"Yeah, yeah," she said dismissively, though I caught a flicker of something unreadable in her eyes.
In the days leading up to the competition, an unexpected camaraderie blossomed between us. We explored the vibrant city, sharing moments of laughter and surprisingly easy companionship. Despite the unusual circumstances of our union, a strange sort of understanding grew.
"So, today is the competition day," I stated, a sense of anticipation building within me.
"Yeah," Shu Yan replied, a hint of excitement in her voice. "Follow me."
She led me through bustling streets, the energy of the approaching event palpable in the air. Finally, we arrived at a breathtaking island that seemed to float serenely amidst a sea of clouds.
"So, this is Pure Island," I observed, marveling at its ethereal beauty.
"Yeah," Shu Yan said, a soft smile gracing her lips. "See? It's so beautiful."
"Oh, really," I murmured, captivated by the radiant landscapes.
"Yes," she affirmed.
As we stepped onto the island's shores, an invisible barrier shimmered around us, but it didn't impede my entry in the slightest.
"Wow," I commented, taking in the massive crowds of cultivators gathered. "There are so many people for the Competition."
We moved closer to a colossal arena that dominated the center of the island.
"Yes," Shu Yan explained. "In this competition, every time thousands of cultivators come and fight for titles."
"Titles?" I asked, intrigued. "How does fighting here give you a title?"
"When you fight here, the people see your skill and how you perform," she elaborated. "If you are exceptionally skilled, especially with a sword, then you'll get one of the prestigious titles like Sword Master or Sword Sovereign."
"Oh, ok, now I get it," I said, the concept clear.
"See? Your friend is coming," Shu Yan pointed out, a small smile playing on her lips.
"Who?" I asked, turning my gaze in the direction she indicated.
My eyes landed on the familiar figure of the colossal golden dragon Xuan, accompanied by Shen, Fang, and Ruo.
"Oh, hey, old dragon Xuan!" I called out, a grin spreading across my face.
"Brother Luo!" Xuan boomed, his voice carrying easily over the crowd. "I thought you wouldn't come!"
"Hahaha, don't worry," I replied. "I came here to see what all the fuss is about."
As we gathered, a figure stepped into the center of the massive arena. His voice, amplified by some unseen force, echoed across the island.
"I am your announcer for now," he declared, his gaze sweeping over the assembled cultivators. "And The Godly Titles Competition now Begins!"