Zhuge Xiang versus Ji Wuxue. The moment the two stepped onto the dueling platform, they captured the attention of many onlookers.
There was no need to explain who Ji Wuxue was. He was a genius disciple who had comprehended Qi Force five months ago and was on par with Lu Yuling. Furthermore, he possessed a strong spirit of adventure. For the past five months, he had been hunting and slaying demon beasts in the Endless Mountains, rarely returning to the sect.
No one knew the extent of Ji Wuxue's strength after five months of killing. However, a few months ago, he had successfully cultivated the Bloodthirst Technique, which had brought him great fame.
Among the disciples who had comprehended Qi Force, only a few had the courage to cultivate the Bloodthirst Technique, despite its reputation. Over 80 of them had perished during the cultivation process. Ji Wuxue was one of the rare disciples who had successfully mastered it.
Based on appearances, he had not only mastered the Bloodthirst Technique but also acquired a formidable sword technique. When these two factors were combined, the equation was far from simple addition. It could be said that Ji Wuxue was among the contenders with a genuine chance of winning the competition.
However, Ji Wuxue was undeniably strong, and Zhuge Xiang was no weak opponent either. Although they had faced disciples in the first level of the Qi Nourishing stage in three consecutive rounds, everyone vividly remembered the initial duel with Zhao Feiyun.
The strength that erupted in that critical moment had undergone a significant reversal. Who could guarantee that he would be able to unleash his full power at that particular time? Moreover, Ji Wuxue's words confirmed everyone's suspicions. It was indeed the Bloodthirst Technique, and it had reached an advanced level.
At this moment, almost everyone's gaze was fixated on the battle between the two. Although this was only the middle and late stages of one of the dueling platforms, the quality of this battle was not inferior to the battles for the top eight. The clash between the Bloodthirst Technique at the third level of the Qi Nourishing stage, just entering the beginner stage, and the Bloodthirst Technique at the second level of the Qi Nourishing stage, already at the advanced level, held great significance. This martial art was renowned throughout the refinement and qi transformation stage. How formidable was it? Everyone eagerly awaited the answer…
Ding…
Under the influence of the Bloodthirst Technique, Ji Wuxue's swift sword strikes were formidable. However, Zhuge Xiang's speed was not lacking either. He activated his own Bloodthirst Technique, boosting all his attributes by 50%. With a horizontal swing of his Blood Refined Saber, he intercepted Ji Wuxue's sword, resulting in a crisp sound of metal clashing.
Reciprocation was only proper. Despite Ji Wuxue being at the third level of the Qi Nourishing stage, Zhuge Xiang's Bloodthirst Technique had increased his attack power and speed by 50%. After blocking the sword, he swiftly retaliated by slashing his Blood Refined Saber back at an astonishing speed.
As the saying goes, swords embody agility while sabers possess unyielding strength. Sword techniques are renowned for their speed, while sabers are known for their power and weight. However, at the advanced level, with a 50% increase in attack speed, Zhuge Xiang's saber strikes not only retained the characteristics of strength and weight but were also incredibly swift. Disciples in the Qi Nourishing stage could still discern it, while those who had not grasped its essence could only perceive a flash of blood-colored saber light.
Ji Wuxue had long been aware of Zhuge Xiang's advanced level Bloodthirst Technique and was naturally prepared. His black longsword also intercepted Zhuge Xiang's attack. The two of them tested each other's strength and simultaneously took a few steps back.
Silence enveloped the area. Everyone held their breath, their gaze fixed upon the duo on the dueling platform. This was especially true for those disciples with ambitions of competing for the championship. They did not even dare to blink, for regardless of who emerged victorious, both contestants were formidable opponents in their eyes. They yearned to witness the strength of their potential rivals.
Though the combatants were merely exchanging moves, the danger involved was evident. Setting aside their attack power, their lightning-fast attack speed alone was awe-inspiring. If any other person were to step forward, be it with swift sword techniques or fearsome saber strikes, they would be unable to fend them off.
"How about we determine the winner in three moves?" Ji Wuxue's expression remained cold as he spoke. However, a discerning eye could detect a tinge of seriousness in the depths of his gaze. He coldly observed Zhuge Xiang and proposed the idea.
Decide victory in three moves? Zhuge Xiang nodded in agreement with Ji Wuxue's suggestion.
Although the Bloodthirst Technique was formidable, it had its limitations. Through their previous exchanges, both combatants realized that their attack power and speed were evenly matched. If they continued to battle, the Bloodthirst Technique would remain active for too long. Regardless of who emerged victorious, it would greatly impact their subsequent matches. Therefore, they agreed to decide the winner in three moves, allowing the victor to be in better condition for the battles to come.
On one hand, Ji Wuxue acknowledged Zhuge Xiang's strength and knew that he couldn't swiftly end the battle. On the other hand, Zhuge Xiang had to possess enough confidence for Ji Wuxue to agree to the proposal.
The agreement to determine the winner in three moves heightened people's nerves. Although it would be regrettable for those aspiring to compete for the championship if both contestants didn't sustain significant injuries, the decision to settle the match in three moves clearly indicated that both would unleash their full strength. At this moment, it was an event that could not be missed.
"Three moves?" Lu Yuling smiled and looked at Zhuge Xiang with anticipation. Would he be able to emerge victorious against Ji Wuxue? After all, he had only comprehended Qi Force for half a month. If he could win this battle, it would undoubtedly astonish the entire Asura Sect.
"Yama Sword Technique, Fang Thrust." Ji Wuxue undeniably possessed the skills of a skilled swordsman. Seeing Zhuge Xiang's agreement, he wasted no time and made his move. A black sword light flickered like black lightning. The dense sword intent aimed directly at Zhuge Xiang's forehead. Even before the sword reached its target, a faint tingling sensation had already spread across Zhuge Xiang's forehead.
Fang Thrust. This sword technique lacked elaborate angles or profound maneuvers. It was simply a straightforward thrust. However, it was incredibly swift—so swift that it made it challenging for people to react.
In what seemed like an instant, the cold tip of the sword was already in front of Zhuge Xiang's eyes. Zhuge Xiang's pupils constricted violently. He had never seen such a fast attack. Such a fast sword dared to ask for three moves to determine the victor. Ji Wuxue indeed had something to rely on.
With the 50% speed boost from the Bloodthirst Technique, coupled with a 30% increase in speed from his boots, Zhuge Xiang launched his counterattack. He twisted his waist and tilted his head. Although he couldn't completely evade the sword, he managed to avoid a vital point. He felt a pang of pain on his forehead, and Ji Wuxue's sword had cut open the skin between his eyebrows. Blood trickled out…
"Reverse Form, Swallow's Return," striking the enemy with a single blow. Ji Wuxue and Zhuge Xiang crossed each other's paths. Yet, almost simultaneously, a cold voice resounded, and a chilling sword aura locked onto Zhuge Xiang's heart.
He turned his body and a black sword light appeared. The blood-colored Qi Force enveloping the Bloodthirst Technique reappeared like a phantom. Amidst the high-speed movement, not only did Ji Wuxue halt his own body, but he also unleashed a rapid attack that was no less formidable than a sudden stab in an impossible situation…
This sword strike caught Zhuge Xiang off guard. By common logic, a high-speed thrust would require a certain distance to be traversed before halting to launch an attack. However, Ji Wuxue's Swallow's Return seemed to defy the laws of inertia.
Blood spurted out. Zhuge Xiang's heart had indeed been avoided, but this sword had pierced through Zhuge Xiang's chest, his back, and his body. Although Zhuge Xiang's heart remained unscathed, the injury inflicted by the sword was severe, reducing his combat capabilities by at least half. With such an outcome, turning the tables would be as challenging as ascending to the heavens…
Ji Wuxue indeed had his own advantage. Despite the agreement of three moves, Zhuge Xiang was unable to mount any counterattack against Ji Wuxue's swift sword techniques. After just two moves, he suffered severe injuries and was on the verge of death. This battle posed an unprecedented level of danger for Zhuge Xiang.
"Ji Wuxue won…" many people began to discuss. Indeed, although their abilities were similar, Zhuge Xiang, who was severely injured, had his combat ability reduced by more than half.
Even Lu Yuling frowned slightly. Although she was very confident in Zhuge Xiang, at this moment, she could not think of any trump cards that Zhuge Xiang could use to turn the tables.
Blood trickled from the corner of his mouth, but Zhuge Xiang paid it no heed. His bloodshot eyes remained fixed on Ji Wuxue. He knew all too well that if he didn't take action, he wouldn't have a chance against Ji Wuxue's razor-sharp sword. He brandished the Blood Refined Saber and slashed at Ji Wuxue's arm.
It was a desperate move. If Ji Wuxue tried to twist his wrist and kill Zhuge Xiang, his arm would undoubtedly be severed. Losing an arm would be a significant setback for a swordsman. Hence, Ji Wuxue had no choice but to withdraw his sword and retreat.
Viciousness. This was how Ji Wuxue felt about Zhuge Xiang. Not only was he ruthless to the enemy, but he was also ruthless to himself. When his life was in danger, Zhuge Xiang's first reaction was not to retreat to protect himself, but to risk his life.
As the saying goes, if he were to retreat, Ji Wuxue would surely press the attack. With his severely injured body, it would be arduous for him to turn the tables. However, if he staked his life, he stood a chance.
Seeing Ji Wuxue retreat, Zhuge Xiang did not chase after him. He crouched slightly, resembling a poised cheetah ready to pounce. The surging Qi Force within his body surged into the blood-red saber. The ghastly face formed by the crimson Qi Force was terrifying to behold.
Originally, the Blood Lightning Slash required seven to eight breaths of Qi to accumulate. After Zhuge Xiang advanced to the second level of the Qi Nourishing stage, his Qi Force became denser, reducing the time required to four to five breaths. Additionally, with the advanced Bloodthirst Technique, his Qi Force grew even more formidable, and his attack speed increased by 50%. Now, he needed a mere two breaths.
The Blood Lightning Slash gathered power, and an unprecedentedly sharp saber intent emanated from Zhuge Xiang's body. Everyone recognized it as his offensive martial art.
Ji Wuxue's expression changed upon being locked onto by Zhuge Xiang's terrifying saber intent. Zhuge Xiang's attack power was already remarkable, and now, with the accumulated saber intent, it would be devastating. Ji Wuxue once again lunged toward Zhuge Xiang. He displayed resolute decisiveness, determined to disrupt Zhuge Xiang's move.
Ji Wuxue's decision was swift, but would Zhuge Xiang allow him to interrupt his attack? Zhuge Xiang stared at Ji Wuxue's charging figure like a cheetah. Zhuge Xiang shouted inwardly, activating the effect of the Frost Headband. An invisible force spread, causing Ji Wuxue's speed to suddenly decrease by 20%.
Ignoring Ji Wuxue's shocked gaze, Zhuge Xiang looked at Ji Wuxue who had already rushed in front of him and shouted. With a kick of his feet, he went up to meet the attack—Blood Lightning Slash!