In terms of speed, Zhuge Xiang was worlds apart from Zi Xiang at the Qi Cultivation Realm Ninth Layer. Yet at critical moments, Explosive Steps could turn the tide. On top of that, Zi Xiang had already been poisoned. Though she had temporarily suppressed the tyrannical poison, both her attacks and speed were affected to a certain degree. Thus, Zhuge Xiang and Zi Xiang, despite her being at the Qi Cultivation Realm Ninth Layer, were actually evenly matched.
Although he did not have the defensive boost of Steel Secret Medicine, the defensive artifacts covering most of his body together provided Zhuge Xiang with roughly 70 points of defense—nearly half the effect of Steel Secret Medicine. During their drawn-out fight, Zi Xiang's longsword occasionally struck him. With around 70 points of defense and Healing Pills sustaining him, he remained safe despite the danger. Still, the longsword in her hand made Zhuge Xiang wary. Whenever its blade cut him, it tore open his flesh with startling heat, leaving even the wounds scorched black. That sword carried fire-attribute damage after striking.
With the defense of artifacts covering most of his body, the support of Healing Pills, and Explosive Steps to hold the line at critical moments, Zhuge Xiang was in little real danger. Zi Xiang, however, was different. The poison she had suppressed was already stirring, on the verge of erupting. Yet in the midst of such fierce battle, she had no time to put on more equipment. Taking advantage of Explosive Steps, Zhuge Xiang carved a massive wound across her body. Blood streamed without end, and Zi Xiang even felt her consciousness beginning to grow hazy.
"His artifact is terrifying..." Zi Xiang stared at the Cleaving Blade in Zhuge Xiang's hand, its surface lined with fine serrated teeth, her eyes filled with