Chapter 16: Rising Momentum
The Outer Sect Disciple Competition continued to unfold with growing intensity. After his grueling victory against Zhang Tai, Da Cai felt both relief and renewed determination. The success in his first battle had reinforced his resolve to advance further, but the path ahead remained steep and fraught with challenges.
The following day, the elder overseeing the tournament addressed the gathered disciples once more. "Today, the next set of matches will commence. Remember, each victory brings you closer to the top ranks. Fight with honor and give it your all."
As the matches progressed, the crowd's energy was electric. The spectating disciples cheered, jeered, and whispered about potential favorites. Among them, Da Cai's name was starting to gain recognition, not for overwhelming strength but for his tenacity and dual-path cultivation.
Another Friend's Victory
Later that day, Ren Zhen's name was called. The burly disciple stepped into the ring, facing a second-stage Muscle Refinement cultivator known for his brute strength. Ren Zhen, despite his easygoing demeanor, had a surprising depth of power when cornered. His battle showcased a mix of resilience and clever tactics. Using his immense physical strength, he countered his opponent's aggressive strikes, gradually wearing him down.
With a final, decisive blow, Ren Zhen claimed victory, earning thunderous applause from the crowd. "Looks like all of us have hidden depths," Lian Hua said with a smirk, nudging Da Cai as they watched Ren Zhen return.
"That was incredible," Da Cai added, clapping his friend on the back. Ren Zhen grinned, though his heavy breathing betrayed the toll the fight had taken.
Da Cai's Second Fight
Da Cai's second match was soon announced. This time, his opponent was a mid-second-stage Muscle Refinement cultivator named Chen Bao, known for his agility and fire-based Spirit Qi techniques. As Da Cai stepped into the ring, he could feel the heat radiating from Chen Bao, a clear indication of his affinity.
The fight began with Chen Bao launching a barrage of fiery strikes, forcing Da Cai to rely on his enhanced stamina and quick reflexes. While Chen Bao's attacks were relentless, Da Cai's dual cultivation paths gave him the edge. His tempered body absorbed much of the impact, and his Spirit Qi provided bursts of strength to counter Chen Bao's offensive onslaught.
As the fight progressed, Da Cai shifted his strategy. He began targeting Chen Bao's movements, anticipating his patterns and exploiting openings. A well-placed strike to the ribs disrupted Chen Bao's rhythm, and Da Cai pressed his advantage. With a final, powerful blow, Da Cai forced Chen Bao to yield.
The crowd erupted into cheers as Da Cai stood victorious once again. He extended a hand to Chen Bao, helping him up. "Good fight," Da Cai said, earning a respectful nod from his opponent.
Building Confidence
After his second victory, Da Cai returned to his friends, who greeted him with enthusiasm.
"You're really making a name for yourself out there," Feng Yi said, his calm tone laced with pride.
"Keep this up, and you might just make it to the top 900," Lian Hua added with a teasing smile.
Da Cai chuckled, but the thought of breaking into the upper ranks lit a fire within him. The competition was far from over, and each fight was a step closer to proving his worth. With his dual cultivation paths and unyielding determination, Da Cai was ready to face whatever came next.