NOVEL NEXT Chapter 9: Chapter 9: Ripples of Power
The Xiao Clan courtyard buzzed with whispers of Xiao Yan's rapid progress. Disciples spoke in hushed tones, both amazed and envious. Xiao Yan, however, remained calm and focused, fully aware of the challenges ahead.
After days of intensive practice, he had reached an intermediate level of mastery in Iron Shadow Steps. While he still had room for improvement, the technique had already enhanced his agility to a degree that confounded his peers. Now, it was time to move on to the Flame Serpent Palm.
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Flame Serpent Palm
In his courtyard, Xiao Yan unrolled the scroll and began studying the technique. Flame Serpent Palm was an offensive skill designed to concentrate Dou Qi into the palms, releasing it in a fiery burst resembling a serpent's strike. The scroll warned of the potential danger if the energy was not properly controlled.
"The key is to visualize the serpent," Xiao Yan muttered to himself. "Its fluid movements, its coiled strength, and its lethal precision."
The system's voice chimed in: "Technique requires high focus and stable energy flow. Host's current control level is sufficient for basic execution."
Xiao Yan placed his palms together and began channeling his Dou Qi. A faint warmth spread through his hands as he concentrated, visualizing a fiery serpent coiling around his arms. Gradually, the warmth grew into heat, and an orange glow flickered around his palms.
"Too unstable," Xiao Yan murmured, sensing the erratic energy. He adjusted his breathing and Dou Qi flow, steadying the flames. After hours of practice, he finally succeeded in forming a small serpent-shaped burst of energy that dissipated a few feet away.
"Good enough for now," he thought, wiping sweat from his brow.
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The Elders' Observation
Unbeknownst to Xiao Yan, Elder Xiao Li and Xiao Zhan had been observing his progress from a distance.
"His control is extraordinary for someone his age," Elder Xiao Li remarked, stroking his beard. "And his dedication is unmatched. It's almost as if he's driven by something beyond normal ambition."
Xiao Zhan nodded, his expression a mixture of pride and concern. "Xiao Yan is special, that much is clear. But with such talent comes danger. Others may see him as a threat or a prize to be claimed. We must protect him while also preparing him for the challenges ahead."
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A New Challenge
Three days later, Xiao Yan was summoned to the main hall once more. This time, the summons came with an air of urgency.
As Xiao Yan entered the hall, he noticed the serious expressions on the faces of the elders. Xiao Zhan sat at the head of the table, his brow furrowed.
"Xiao Yan," Xiao Zhan began, "you have shown exceptional progress in your training. However, there are whispers beyond our clan of your potential. Some see it as a blessing; others may see it as a threat. We must ensure that you are ready to face whatever challenges may come."
Xiao Yan nodded, his expression calm. "What do you wish for me to do, Father?"
Xiao Zhan gestured toward a map laid out on the table. "There is an annual competition between clans in Wutan City. It is a chance for young talents to prove themselves and earn recognition. I want you to participate. It will be an opportunity to test your skills and gauge your potential against others."
Xiao Yan's eyes gleamed with excitement. A competition would be the perfect opportunity to test his abilities and refine his techniques. "I accept, Father."
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The Preparation
Over the next week, Xiao Yan intensified his training. The system continued to guide him, offering strategies and adjustments to his techniques. He balanced his time between perfecting Iron Shadow Steps, refining Flame Serpent Palm, and cultivating his Dou Qi reserves using the Dou Qi Condensation Method.
"Focus on precision over power," the system advised. "Winning is not just about strength but also control and strategy."
By the end of the week, Xiao Yan felt a newfound confidence in his abilities. He had not only mastered the basics of his chosen techniques but also developed a deeper understanding of how to integrate them seamlessly in combat.
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The Day of the Competition
The Xiao Clan delegation arrived at the competition grounds early. The event was held in an open arena at the center of Wutan City, where crowds gathered to watch the young talents of various clans display their skills.
Xiao Yan's presence attracted attention immediately. Though small and young, his composed demeanor and the whispers of his recent achievements made him a topic of discussion.
"Is that the prodigy from the Xiao Clan?" one spectator asked.
"They say he defeated Xiao Ning easily and mastered advanced techniques in mere weeks," another replied.
Xiao Yan ignored the murmurs, focusing instead on the task ahead. As he stepped into the waiting area for participants, he felt a faint smile tug at his lips.
"This is only the beginning," he thought.
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End of Chapter 9
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