Li Wei's expression grew increasingly gloomy, and a flicker of uncertainty flashed through his eyes. He had never imagined that after only a few months apart, Shen Hao's strength would have improved so quickly. Not only had his movement technique become more agile, but even the intensity of his spiritual energy had caught up to Li Wei's. Drawing a deep breath, he stopped holding back and mobilized all the spiritual energy of the Late Qi Refining Fourth Layer. The spiritual radiance around him grew denser, and his sword techniques became ever fiercer. The Refined Iron Flying Sword in his hand shot out like a venomous snake leaving its burrow, its Sword Light weaving like a net and enveloping Shen Hao. Every strike targeted Shen Hao's vital points, each one ruthless and merciless.
Shen Hao dealt with it calmly, pushing Flowing Cloud Steps to its limit. His figure flickered through the Sword Light like a ghost, leaving afterimages in rapid succession. His sword techniques were not flashy and held no profound variations, yet every move struck directly at Li Wei's openings, allowing him to fight with ease. In his hands, the Basic Sword Art seemed to bloom into a thousand variations; its plain, unadorned moves contained boundless power.
After dozens of exchanges, Li Wei's breathing gradually became disordered. Fine beads of sweat covered his forehead, and his breaths grew hurried. Although his sword techniques remained fierce, their speed had slowed by several degrees. Clearly, he had expended too much spiritual energy. He knew that if this continued, defeat would be inevitable. Shen Hao's movement technique was far too elusive to catch, while Shen Hao's sword moves were too tricky, striking his weaknesses with precision every time and leaving his strength with nowhere to land.
A ruthless glint flashed through Li Wei's