Btth: Second chance of Xiao yan

With Xiao Yan's victory over Xiao Ning, the atmosphere in the arena shifted. The crowd no longer saw him as just a young prodigy; they now recognized him as a serious contender. As Xiao Yan left the stage, he noticed the wary glances from the remaining competitors.

"Looks like they're finally taking me seriously," he thought with a faint smile.

Among the spectators, influential figures from various clans exchanged whispers.

"Did you see how he fought?" one elder remarked. "His movements were almost flawless, and his control over Dou Qi is remarkable for someone so young."

"It's no wonder the Xiao Clan holds him in such high regard," another replied. "But talent like his will attract unwanted attention."

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Back at the Waiting Area

Xiao Yan returned to the waiting area to rest, sitting cross-legged as he regulated his breathing. The system's voice echoed in his mind:

"Host's Dou Qi reserves are at 40%. Recommend rest and light recovery techniques before the next match."

Xiao Yan nodded, closing his eyes and activating the Dou Qi Condensation Method. The familiar flow of energy soothed his body, gradually replenishing his reserves.

As he meditated, a figure approached him. Opening his eyes, Xiao Yan saw Xiao Mei standing nearby, her expression a mixture of awe and hesitation.

"Xiao Yan," she said softly, "that was an amazing match. You've improved so much… it's hard to believe you're the same cousin I used to know."

Xiao Yan offered her a small smile. "Thank you, Xiao Mei. I've been working hard."

She hesitated before continuing. "Be careful in the next rounds. The stronger you get, the more people will want to see you fall."

Xiao Yan nodded, appreciating her concern. "Don't worry. I'm ready for whatever comes next."

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The Next Opponent

The competition moved quickly, and soon, the pairings for the semi-finals were announced. Xiao Yan's next opponent was someone unexpected: a boy named Mu Feng from the Mu Clan.

Mu Feng was known for his mastery of the Whirlwind Blade Technique, a mid-tier Yellow Grade skill that combined speed and precision. Though not as physically imposing as Xiao Ning, Mu Feng's reputation for outmaneuvering his opponents made him a dangerous adversary.

As Xiao Yan prepared for the match, the system provided a brief analysis:

"Opponent's technique emphasizes rapid strikes and continuous pressure. Host's agility gives an advantage, but prolonged combat could drain energy reserves further. Recommend neutralizing opponent's rhythm early in the match."

"Understood," Xiao Yan replied mentally, his determination unwavering.

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The Semi-Final Match

As Xiao Yan and Mu Feng stepped into the arena, the crowd's excitement reached a fever pitch. Both boys were hailed as prodigies of their respective clans, and their clash promised to be a spectacle.

The referee raised his hand, signaling the start of the match.

Mu Feng wasted no time, drawing a short blade and activating the Whirlwind Blade Technique. His movements were a blur as he dashed toward Xiao Yan, his blade slicing through the air with deadly precision.

Xiao Yan activated Iron Shadow Steps, narrowly dodging Mu Feng's initial strikes. The blade's edge grazed his sleeve, but Xiao Yan remained unshaken.

"Your speed is impressive," Xiao Yan said, his tone calm. "But speed alone won't win you this match."

Mu Feng smirked. "We'll see about that."

He increased his tempo, launching a relentless flurry of strikes that forced Xiao Yan to stay on the defensive. The crowd watched in awe as the two boys moved at incredible speeds, their figures barely visible.

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Turning the Tide

Xiao Yan knew he couldn't stay on the defensive forever. Timing his movements carefully, he sidestepped one of Mu Feng's strikes and countered with Flame Serpent Palm.

The fiery burst of Dou Qi forced Mu Feng to retreat, creating a brief opening. Seizing the opportunity, Xiao Yan closed the distance and unleashed a combination of strikes, blending his agility with precise Dou Qi-infused attacks.

Mu Feng stumbled, his rhythm disrupted. Though he tried to regain control, Xiao Yan's relentless pressure left him no room to recover.

Finally, with a decisive palm strike, Xiao Yan sent Mu Feng's blade flying out of his hand. The force of the attack knocked Mu Feng to the ground, leaving him dazed.

The referee stepped forward, raising his hand. "Winner: Xiao Yan of the Xiao Clan!"

As Xiao Yan helped Mu Feng to his feet, the boy gave him a grudging nod. "You're strong, Xiao Yan. Stronger than I expected. I'll remember this."

Xiao Yan smiled. "You fought well too. I look forward to our next match."

The crowd erupted into cheers once more as Xiao Yan left the arena, his reputation solidified further. But as he walked away, he couldn't shake the feeling that this victory was only a small step in a much larger journey.

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End of Chapter 12

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