The car rolled through the silent mountains, headlights cutting through the mist.For hours, Tang Xan drove without rest, his eyes fixed on the winding road ahead. The air grew colder with every turn, the trees coated in white frost that shimmered under the pale moonlight. After two hours of off-roading through steep hills and frozen paths, he finally saw it — a giant gate carved from silver ice, towering over the entrance to Frost Land.
Tang Xan stepped out of the car. The air was so cold that every breath came out as a ghostly mist. He placed his hand on the frozen handle of the gate and pushed it open.
The moment he did, shadows moved in the snow.
Dozens of guards appeared from the fog, armor gleaming under the moon. Spears aimed straight at him."Who are you?" one shouted, voice echoing across the icy plain.
Before Tang Xan could answer, the guards charged.
In that instant, the lion spirit inside him awoke. His eyes flashed gold, and Tang Xan's body glowed with light. But his consciousness faded — he had entered the dimension world.The Lion of Light had taken control.
With divine speed, the lion dodged every strike effortlessly, his movements calm yet powerful."Stop," the lion's voice thundered. "He is not your enemy."
The guards froze. The leader narrowed his eyes. "Who speaks through this boy?"
"I am the Ancient Lion," the voice replied, resonating like thunder. "We are traveling to Life City — to the Power Academy."
The guards exchanged nervous looks. Their weapons lowered immediately. "The Academy… Then you may enter," one said. "But not yet. The Tournament of Frost begins tomorrow — three rounds, open to all travelers. You may only pass once it ends."
"The tournament?" the lion asked.
"Yes," the guard replied. "Three trials — first, Power Testing. Second, Aura Testing, to measure your spirit's might. The last, Battle Round, one-on-one duels. It lasts four days — rewards will be given on the fifth of November. The victor shall earn riches… and the title of Commander to the Frost King."
The lion smiled faintly. "Interesting."
The glow around Tang Xan faded. His soul returned to his body, and the lion retreated to the dimension.Inside the spiritual realm, the lion's voice echoed:"We can do this, Tang Xan. The trials will sharpen your strength — and reveal your true potential."
Tang Xan clenched his fist, eyes burning with determination."Yes," he said softly. "Let's do it."
Outside, the guards bowed slightly."You may stay within Frost Land until the tournament begins," the leader said.
Tang Xan nodded. Snow began to fall as he walked through the great gate, the cold wind whispering of trials and destiny
End of Chapter 8 .