Btth: Second chance of Xiao yan

The sun rose over the Xiao Clan estate, bathing the training grounds in warm light. Xiao Yan, clad in a simple training outfit, stood among a group of junior disciples, his small figure barely noticeable amidst the older children. Excitement buzzed in the air as the disciples prepared for their morning session.

"Alright, everyone, gather around!" A stern voice cut through the chatter. The instructor, a tall man with a robust build and a sharp gaze, strode into the center of the grounds. His name was Xiao Li, a mid-level elder of the Xiao Clan and a respected trainer. "Today's session will focus on sparring and technique refinement. Remember, this is practice—not a fight to the death. Control your energy and learn from each exchange."

Xiao Yan watched quietly as the disciples paired up, each choosing a sparring partner of similar age and ability. He knew that his young age and small stature would make him an unlikely participant in the eyes of the older children, but he had no intention of being overlooked.

"Who will pair with me?" Xiao Yan asked, his voice calm but firm. His tone carried an unexpected authority, drawing the attention of the nearby disciples.

The older children exchanged glances, some smirking, others rolling their eyes. Finally, a boy named Xiao Ning stepped forward. He was eight years old, tall for his age, and known for his cocky attitude.

"I'll spar with you," Xiao Ning said, his tone mocking. "But don't cry when you lose, alright?"

Xiao Yan merely nodded, his expression unchanging. He stepped into the sparring circle, his small frame a stark contrast to Xiao Ning's larger build. The other disciples gathered around, eager to watch the spectacle.

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Xiao Ning charged forward, his movements swift but unrefined. He aimed a straightforward punch at Xiao Yan's midsection, clearly expecting the younger boy to flinch or dodge clumsily. But Xiao Yan remained calm, his sharp eyes analyzing Xiao Ning's attack.

At the last moment, Xiao Yan sidestepped, his movements precise and effortless. Xiao Ning's punch hit nothing but air, throwing him off balance. Before he could recover, Xiao Yan stepped forward and delivered a light but firm palm strike to Xiao Ning's chest, sending him stumbling backward.

The crowd gasped. Xiao Ning, red-faced and embarrassed, scrambled to his feet. "Lucky shot!" he growled, his pride stung. He charged again, this time with more aggression, his Dou Qi flaring faintly around his fists.

Xiao Yan smirked inwardly. Xiao Ning's Dou Qi was barely at the first realm, and his control was sloppy. To Xiao Yan, who had already reached the second realm, the fight was over before it began.

As Xiao Ning's fists came toward him, Xiao Yan ducked low, his movements fluid. He swept his leg out, catching Xiao Ning off balance and sending him tumbling to the ground. Before Xiao Ning could react, Xiao Yan placed a hand on his chest, pinning him lightly but firmly.

"Yield," Xiao Yan said softly, his voice devoid of malice but carrying an undeniable authority.

Xiao Ning glared at him for a moment before reluctantly nodding. "I… yield."

The crowd erupted in murmurs. No one had expected the youngest participant to win so decisively. Xiao Yan stepped back, his expression calm as if the fight had been nothing more than a casual exercise.

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Xiao Li, who had been observing from the sidelines, stepped forward. His sharp eyes studied Xiao Yan intently. "Xiao Yan, that was impressive. Your movements were precise, and your technique was solid. Where did you learn to fight like that?"

Xiao Yan bowed respectfully. "I've been practicing on my own, Elder Xiao Li. My father has always emphasized the importance of discipline."

Xiao Li nodded, though his gaze remained calculating. "Very well. You show great promise for someone so young. But remember, strength without humility is a dangerous path. Continue to train diligently."

"Yes, Elder Xiao Li," Xiao Yan replied, his tone humble but firm.

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As the sparring session continued, Xiao Yan faded into the background, watching and learning from the other disciples. He was careful not to draw too much attention to himself, but the whispers about his unexpected victory followed him throughout the day.

Later that evening, as Xiao Yan returned to his courtyard, the system's voice chimed in his mind.

"Performance analysis: Host displayed 20% of maximum capability. Concealment strategy effective. Probability of arousing suspicion: minimal."

Xiao Yan smirked. "Good. I'll continue to reveal my strength gradually. Let them think I'm just a hardworking child with a bit of natural talent."

"Recommendation: Seek access to advanced techniques and resources. Training with current methods will yield diminishing returns."

Xiao Yan nodded. The system was right. While the sparring session had been a valuable experience, he needed more than basic techniques to truly maximize his potential. The Xiao Clan's library held some advanced techniques, but they were restricted to disciples who had proven themselves.

"Then I'll just have to prove myself," Xiao Yan said softly, determination burning in his eyes.

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End of Chapter 6

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