**Chapter 4: The Trials of Strength**
The sun rose over Darkfang City, casting long shadows across the arena as the crowd began to gather once more. The air was thick with anticipation, the sounds of excited chatter filling the atmosphere. For many, this was a chance at glory; for Alex, it was a stepping stone on his path to unimaginable power.
As he prepared for the next round, Alex reflected on the fights of the previous day. The blood he had spilled was not merely a means to an end; it was a testament to his determination. Each death had brought him closer to the artifact, but it had also awakened something within him—an insatiable hunger for dominance.
**"Today, you will face the strongest competitors yet,"** the demon's voice warned, a note of excitement lacing its tone. **"These cultivators have tasted blood, and they will not go down easily."**
Alex smirked. **"Let them come."**
---
The contestants were led into the arena once again, the air crackling with energy. The announcer stood in the center, his voice booming over the thrumming anticipation of the crowd.
"Welcome back to the Darkfang Arena! Today, we will witness the second round of our blood tournament! Prepare yourselves for a true test of strength and skill! The stakes are higher, and only the strongest will survive!"
The competitors were arrayed in a loose circle, their eyes locked onto one another, measuring strength, resolve, and potential weaknesses. Alex stood at the edge, his expression calm and collected, but inside, a fire raged.
One by one, the fights began, and the arena erupted into chaos. Alex watched as contestants engaged in fierce combat, showcasing their skills and abilities. Some wielded elemental powers, summoning fire and ice, while others relied on brute strength and martial prowess.
But it was the last fight that drew Alex's attention—a tall man with a broad frame and an intimidating presence. His aura crackled with energy, the signature of a seasoned cultivator. This was Rian, the champion of a local sect, known for his merciless tactics and overwhelming strength.
As Rian dispatched his opponent with brutal efficiency, the crowd roared in approval. Alex's heart raced; he could sense the challenge that lay ahead. Rian was no ordinary foe; he was the kind of opponent who could push Alex to his limits.
**"He is strong,"** the demon acknowledged, its voice low and thoughtful. **"But he is predictable. Use that to your advantage."**
As the fights continued, Alex's turn approached. He watched Rian, studying his movements, analyzing his techniques. Rian's strikes were powerful but lacked finesse. If Alex could exploit that, he might have a chance.
---
Finally, it was time. The announcer's voice cut through the excitement like a knife.
"Now, for the match of the day! We have the fearsome Rian, champion of the Darkfang Sect, versus the newcomer, Alex! Let the battle begin!"
The crowd erupted into cheers, their excitement palpable as Alex stepped into the arena. He faced Rian, who towered over him, a confident grin plastered on his face.
"Ready to be crushed, boy?" Rian taunted, his voice booming through the arena.
Alex simply smirked. "You'll find I'm not as easy to break as you think."
The gong sounded, and the arena came alive. Rian charged forward, his fists raised, ready to unleash a devastating blow. Alex sidestepped, the wind from Rian's swing grazing his cheek. The power behind that strike sent shivers down his spine.
**"He's fast,"** the demon commented, noting the brute force of Rian's approach. **"But speed is not everything."**
Rian spun, using his momentum to launch a roundhouse kick. Alex ducked low, feeling the gust of air as Rian's foot soared above him. With a swift movement, Alex retaliated, his blood manipulation activating instinctively.
A thin tendril of crimson shot forth, wrapping around Rian's leg and pulling. The surprise caught Rian off guard, and he stumbled, crashing to the ground.
Alex wasted no time, charging forward, his fists ready. He delivered a series of quick strikes, aiming for Rian's pressure points. But Rian was quick to recover, rolling to the side and springing back to his feet.
"Nice trick!" Rian growled, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth. "But it won't save you!"
Rian unleashed a barrage of punches, each strike powerful enough to shatter stone. Alex danced around the blows, using his agility to evade Rian's relentless assault. He could feel the adrenaline coursing through him, heightening his senses.
But Alex had a plan. He needed to draw Rian into a position where he could use his blood manipulation more effectively. He feigned a stumble, falling backward as if caught off guard.
Rian seized the opportunity, charging forward with a roar, his fist pulled back for a crushing blow. Just as Rian reached him, Alex's eyes flared with intent.
With a flick of his wrist, Alex redirected the blood from his own wounds, forming a barrier around him. Rian's fist collided with the barrier, and a shockwave rippled through the arena. The crowd gasped as the sound echoed like thunder.
Stunned by the sudden resistance, Rian staggered back. Alex seized the moment, launching himself upward with a powerful kick, connecting squarely with Rian's jaw. The impact sent Rian sprawling across the sand, stunned but not defeated.
**"Good, but do not get cocky!"** the demon urged, sensing Rian's determination rising. **"Finish him!"**
Alex narrowed his eyes. He had to be decisive. As Rian regained his footing, Alex summoned every ounce of his power. Blood pulsed around him, forming a dense cloud as he concentrated, weaving his technique with precision.
"Prepare to meet your end!" Alex shouted, channeling the energy. The blood twisted into sharp blades, slicing through the air toward Rian.
Rian raised his arms, but it was too late. The blades pierced through his defenses, cutting into him with brutal efficiency. A collective gasp filled the arena as the crowd witnessed the display of power.
Rian fell to his knees, the color draining from his face. The crowd fell silent, shock rippling through the stands.
With a final, furious glare, Rian fell backward, defeated.
Alex stood over him, breathing heavily but triumphant. The cheers of the crowd erupted, a mixture of awe and disbelief at his performance.
**"You've done it!"** the demon exclaimed, its voice a mix of pride and excitement. **"Now, the next round will reveal the entrance to the catacombs. Your true journey begins here."**
Alex turned his gaze to the announcer, who stood wide-eyed at the unexpected outcome.
"Alex is the victor! He advances to the final round!"
As the crowd roared, Alex couldn't help but feel the thrill of victory coursing through him. This was only the beginning. The artifact was within reach, and with it, he would claim the power necessary to reshape his destiny.
But in the back of his mind, a shadow of doubt lingered. If he continued to rise, there would be others who would seek to stop him. He would need to stay vigilant. The true challenges were still ahead.
With determination blazing in his heart, Alex prepared for the final round, ready to seize the power that awaited him beneath the arena.
**End of Chapter 4.**