Chapter 21: The Art of Talking Your Way Out
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The aftermath of Xu Tian's unorthodox victory over Wei Shun rippled through the Crimson Moon Sect like a wildfire. Disciples whispered about the "Feathered Blade Duel," and elders debated whether his methods were genius or madness.
Xu Tian, lounging in the guest quarters, was enjoying the fleeting peace when Mei Lian barged in, her face a mix of frustration and urgency.
"We have a problem," she said, her tone sharp.
"We always do," Xu Tian replied, stretching lazily. "What is it this time? Angry elders? Secret assassin? Sect-wide duster ban?"
"Elder Qin has demanded a rematch," Mei Lian said, ignoring his quip. "He claims your victory was dishonorable and wants you to prove yourself against his protégé."
Xu Tian groaned. "Can't they just accept that I'm brilliant and move on?"
"Apparently not," Mei Lian said, crossing her arms. "And if you refuse, they might revoke your chance to complete the trials."
[(Observation: Host's situation precarious. Recommend compliance with minimal antagonism.)]
"Compliance, huh? I'll give it my best shot," Xu Tian muttered.
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The training grounds were bustling again when Xu Tian arrived. This time, the atmosphere was more charged. Elder Qin stood with a tall, lean disciple beside him, who radiated an aura of confidence.
"This is Zhang Fei," Elder Qin announced. "He will be your opponent."
Xu Tian sized up Zhang Fei, who bowed slightly but didn't hide his smirk.
"You're the infamous feather warrior?" Zhang Fei said, his tone mocking.
"Feathered Blade of Ultimate Doom, thank you very much," Xu Tian corrected, folding his arms. "But sure, let's go with that."
Sect Leader Yan, seated on a raised platform, raised a hand to silence the murmurs. "This match will be conducted with stricter rules. No external items, only pure combat skills."
Xu Tian's heart sank. "Great, there goes my duster strategy."
[(Reminder: Host possesses Shadow Strike and Gale Step techniques. Adapt strategy accordingly.)]
"Yeah, yeah, I get it. Time to be serious," Xu Tian muttered.
The duel began with Zhang Fei taking the offensive. He moved with precision, his strikes sharp and calculated. Xu Tian dodged and parried, but each block felt like catching a boulder.
"You're a bit stronger than the last guy," Xu Tian admitted, hopping back to gain distance.
"Flattery won't save you," Zhang Fei replied, launching a flurry of kicks.
Xu Tian barely managed to evade, activating Gale Step to create distance. The crowd watched intently, their eyes darting between the two combatants.
[(Tip: Exploit opponent's overcommitment. Shadow Strike effective in counterattacks.)]
"Alright, time to give it a shot," Xu Tian said.
When Zhang Fei lunged forward with a palm strike, Xu Tian sidestepped and executed a Shadow Strike. His Qi-infused punch landed squarely on Zhang Fei's shoulder, forcing him to retreat.
The crowd gasped.
"Not bad," Zhang Fei said, rolling his shoulder. "But don't think that's enough."
As the duel continued, Xu Tian realized Zhang Fei was steadily wearing him down. His opponent's movements were too polished, too rehearsed.
"I need to throw him off his rhythm," Xu Tian thought.
[(Suggestion: Use system reward "Minor Qi refinement pill" for a temporary boost in combat efficiency.)]
"Finally, a reward that's actually useful mid-fight," Xu Tian muttered.
He discreetly swallowed the pill, feeling a surge of energy course through him. His Qi flowed more smoothly, his reflexes sharper.
When Zhang Fei attacked again, Xu Tian met him head-on. His movements were now faster, more fluid, catching Zhang Fei off guard.
The two exchanged blows, but Xu Tian's newfound energy allowed him to keep pace. With a quick feint, he landed a solid kick to Zhang Fei's ribs, sending him skidding backward.
The audience erupted in cheers, and even Sect Leader Yan nodded approvingly.
Despite his newfound advantage, Xu Tian couldn't resist slipping in some mischief.
As Zhang Fei prepared for another attack, Xu Tian called out, "Hey, is your stance always that rigid? Or did someone glue your feet to the ground?"
Zhang Fei hesitated, glancing down reflexively.
Taking advantage of the moment, Xu Tian darted forward and tapped Zhang Fei on the forehead with a finger.
"Boop," he said, grinning.
The crowd burst into laughter. Zhang Fei, realizing he'd been tricked, growled in frustration.
"You're insufferable," Zhang Fei muttered, red-faced.
"Thank you," Xu Tian replied with a mock bow. "I take great pride in my work."
As the duel reached its climax, Xu Tian decided to end it with flair.
When Zhang Fei launched another series of attacks, Xu Tian activated both Gale Step and Shadow Strike simultaneously. His figure blurred, reappearing behind Zhang Fei in an instant.
Before Zhang Fei could react, Xu Tian delivered a Qi-infused palm strike to his back, sending him sprawling onto the ground.
The platform fell silent as Zhang Fei struggled to rise but ultimately admitted defeat.
Sect Leader Yan stood, his voice cutting through the silence. "The winner is Xu Tian."
[(Task completed: Survive the rematch. Reward unlocked: Qi Flow Stabilization Manual.)]
"Finally, a prize that sounds useful," Xu Tian said, smirking.
As the crowd dispersed, Mei Lian approached Xu Tian, her expression a mix of relief and exasperation.
"You just can't resist showing off, can you?" she said.
"Hey, if you've got it, flaunt it," Xu Tian replied, grinning.
She sighed. "At least you proved yourself. But don't think this will stop people from challenging you. Your antics have made you... memorable."
[(Observation: Host's reputation growing. Consequences inevitable.)]
"Consequences," Xu Tian said, waving a hand. "What's life without a little drama?"
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To Be Continued...
With another victory under his belt, Xu Tian's path grows ever more unpredictable. Will his unorthodox style continue to bring success, or will it land him in deeper trouble? Find out in the next chapter of Ascension of the Cosmic Fool!