Chapter 19: Facing the Han Shuo
Today was the day of Da Cai's fight to break into the top 900. He stood at the edge of the arena, his heart steady but his mind brimming with determination. Across from him stood his opponent, Han Shuo, a veteran Outer Disciple who had been in the sect for years. Han Shuo's reputation preceded him; he was a cultivator at the third stage of Muscle Refinement with a mastery of ice-based Spirit Qi techniques.
As Da Cai warmed up, his friends gathered around to offer advice and encouragement.
"Han Shuo isn't just strong," Feng Yi began, his tone measured. "His ice techniques are known for their precision and control. He's like a glacier—slow but relentless. Once he gains momentum, it's nearly impossible to stop him."
Lian Hua chimed in, "He uses a technique called Frozen Spires, which creates ice constructs to both attack and defend. Be careful, Da Cai. He's experienced, and he knows how to exploit weaknesses."
"You've got this," Shi Lang said with a grin, though his voice carried a hint of doubt. "Just do your best."
Da Cai nodded, appreciating their words. He stepped into the ring, his resolve firm. The elder overseeing the match raised his hand and declared, "Begin!"
The Fight
Han Shuo wasted no time, summoning a chilling wave of Spirit Qi that coated the arena floor with frost. The air grew frigid, and Da Cai could see his breath in front of him. Han Shuo extended his hand, and crystalline spires of ice erupted from the ground, aiming directly at Da Cai.
Da Cai dodged to the side, using his Body Cultivation to bolster his speed and endurance. He closed the distance between them, launching a flurry of strikes enhanced by his Spirit Qi. However, Han Shuo's Frozen Spires formed a protective barrier, deflecting Da Cai's attacks effortlessly.
"You're strong," Han Shuo said, his voice calm. "But strength alone won't win this fight."
With a flick of his wrist, Han Shuo unleashed a barrage of ice shards. Da Cai managed to evade most of them, but a few grazed his arms and legs, leaving shallow cuts that burned with cold. Despite the pain, Da Cai pressed on, attempting to break through Han Shuo's defenses. He focused his Spirit Qi into a powerful strike, shattering one of the ice spires.
But Han Shuo countered with ease, creating another spire in its place. He stepped forward, his movements slow but deliberate, and launched a powerful technique: Glacial Grip. Ice tendrils snaked toward Da Cai, encasing his legs and locking him in place.
Da Cai struggled, using all his strength to break free, but Han Shuo's control over the ice was absolute. With a final, devastating strike, Han Shuo sent a wave of ice crashing into Da Cai, knocking him to the ground. The elder stepped forward, declaring Han Shuo the winner.
Da Cai lay on the ground, his body aching and his pride wounded. As he stood up, the words of an old proverb echoed in his mind: "There is always a higher mountain to climb and a stronger wind to endure."
He bowed respectfully to Han Shuo, acknowledging his superior skill. As he left the ring, his friends were there to greet him, their faces a mix of concern and encouragement.
"You did well," Lian Hua said, her voice soft.
Ren Zhen clapped him on the back. "You lasted longer than most would have. That's something to be proud of."
Shi Lang added with a grin, "Besides, you've still got us to cheer you on."
Feng Yi, ever the silent observer, nodded. "This is just one battle. There will be others."
Despite the loss, Da Cai felt a renewed sense of purpose. The fight had shown him his limits, but it had also fueled his determination to grow stronger. He vowed to continue his journey, knowing that each setback was a step toward the peak.