The final trial was a combat round, where each competitor would face off against one another in a series of matches. The young cultivators would not only demonstrate their skills but also their strategies, as they adapted to their opponents' strengths and weaknesses.
The elders arranged the matchups, and as fate would have it, Shenlong's first opponent was Xian Lei. The young man's eyes burned with resentment as he stepped forward, fists clenched.
"Don't think that just because you passed the other trials that you can defeat me in combat," Xian Lei spat, his voice laced with venom. "I've waited a long time to show you your place."
Shenlong merely nodded, his expression serene. "Then let's begin."
As the gong sounded, Xian Lei charged, his fists glowing with a fierce energy. Shenlong sidestepped gracefully, analyzing Xian Lei's movements with precision. His former rival was fast, but his attacks were wild, driven more by anger than strategy.
Shenlong moved in close, his movements precise and fluid. Drawing on the techniques he had absorbed from the pendant's ancient knowledge, he deflected Xian Lei's strikes, countering with a powerful but controlled blow that sent Xian Lei staggering back.
The crowd gasped as Shenlong followed up with a swift combination, his strikes landing with precision yet restraint, showcasing a mastery that far surpassed what anyone had expected. Xian Lei, panting and visibly bruised, attempted to mount a counterattack, but Shenlong's defense was unbreakable.
With a final, decisive move, Shenlong knocked Xian Lei off balance, pinning him to the ground. He stepped back, allowing his opponent to rise, but the message was clear—Shenlong had won.
As Xian Lei slinked away, humiliated and defeated, Shenlong turned to face the crowd. The onlookers were silent for a moment before erupting in applause, recognizing his prowess and acknowledging that he had indeed returned with strength and skill.