Btth: Second chance of Xiao yan

The arena buzzed with anticipation as Xiao Yan and Xiao Ning stepped forward for their match. Among the Xiao Clan disciples, the rivalry between the two cousins had been a topic of conversation for years. Though Xiao Ning had once been regarded as the rising star of the clan, Xiao Yan's recent victories had shifted the narrative.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the announcer declared, "this is a match between two talents of the Xiao Clan. On one side, Xiao Ning, known for his raw strength and unrelenting attacks! And on the other, Xiao Yan, the youngest participant of this competition, whose agility and precision have captivated us all!"

The crowd erupted into cheers as the cousins took their positions. Xiao Ning's gaze was intense, a mixture of competitiveness and grudging respect. Xiao Yan, on the other hand, appeared calm and composed, his posture betraying none of the nervous energy coursing through his veins.

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The Match Begins

As the referee signaled the start of the match, Xiao Ning wasted no time, launching forward with a fierce punch infused with Dou Qi. His movements were fast and powerful, clearly the result of rigorous training.

Xiao Yan activated Iron Shadow Steps immediately, sidestepping Xiao Ning's attack with fluid precision. Xiao Ning's fist struck the ground with a resounding impact, leaving a shallow crater.

"You're fast," Xiao Ning admitted, pulling back and resetting his stance. "But let's see how long you can keep dodging."

He surged forward again, this time incorporating feints into his strikes. Xiao Yan remained calm, analyzing the patterns in Xiao Ning's movements. With each dodge, he grew more attuned to his cousin's rhythm.

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Counterattack

After a particularly wide swing from Xiao Ning, Xiao Yan saw his opportunity. Channeling his Dou Qi into his palms, he unleashed the Flame Serpent Palm. The fiery serpent-shaped burst of energy shot forward, aiming for Xiao Ning's midsection.

Xiao Ning reacted quickly, crossing his arms to block the attack. The impact sent him skidding backward, his feet dragging against the ground. Smoke rose from his forearms, and his expression turned serious.

"Not bad," Xiao Ning said, shaking off the sting. "But I'm not done yet."

He unleashed his own technique, Thunder Fist, a high-tier Yellow Grade technique known for its explosive power. Xiao Ning's fists crackled with energy as he charged at Xiao Yan, his movements more aggressive and precise than before.

Xiao Yan narrowed his eyes, activating Iron Shadow Steps once more. The two clashed repeatedly, Xiao Yan evading and countering while Xiao Ning pressed forward relentlessly. The arena was alive with the sounds of their battle, the crowd watching in awe.

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Pushing Limits

Despite his agility, Xiao Yan felt the strain of maintaining his evasive maneuvers. Xiao Ning's relentless attacks forced him to expend more energy than anticipated. The system's voice echoed in his mind:

"Host's Dou Qi reserves are at 60%. Consider a decisive move."

Xiao Yan nodded internally. He needed to end this match soon. As Xiao Ning lunged forward with another Thunder Fist, Xiao Yan deliberately stepped closer, surprising his opponent.

"What are you—" Xiao Ning began, but Xiao Yan was already moving.

Using the momentum of Xiao Ning's strike, Xiao Yan sidestepped and delivered a powerful Flame Serpent Palm directly to Xiao Ning's side. The fiery burst exploded on impact, sending Xiao Ning tumbling across the arena.

The crowd gasped as Xiao Ning struggled to his feet, clutching his side. His Dou Qi flickered weakly, a clear sign that he was nearing his limit.

"I... I won't give up!" Xiao Ning roared, gathering the last of his strength. But as he prepared to attack, his legs buckled, and he fell to one knee.

The referee stepped forward, raising his hand. "The winner is Xiao Yan!"

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Respect Earned

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Xiao Yan helped Xiao Ning to his feet. Despite his defeat, Xiao Ning managed a small smile.

"You've gotten strong, Xiao Yan," he said, his tone genuine. "I'll catch up to you one day."

Xiao Yan nodded, his respect for his cousin undiminished. "I look forward to it."

As they left the arena together, the Xiao Clan elders watched with pride. Xiao Zhan, in particular, felt a swell of emotion as he saw his son's potential shining so brightly.

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End of Chapter 11

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