In the June morning light, the sun already blazed with heat. A heavy, oppressive warmth blanketed the world, and the airless stillness was almost unbearable. Yet the crowd seemed oblivious. Though drenched in sweat, their eyes remained fixed on the stage, burning with excitement.
Onstage, Wang Hu and Feng Qingyuan stood facing each other, like two statues poised to spring into action.
Wang Hu was powerfully built, with long limbs, close-cropped hair as bristly as needles, and sharp eyes. Like a ferocious beast ready to pounce, he locked his gaze on Feng Qingyuan.
Feng Qingyuan's expression was composed. He met Wang Hu's stare with the stillness of an ancient pool, not a ripple stirring its surface.
The two had been silently sizing each other up for more than ten breaths, and the air was thick with suppressed bloodlust.
The crowd below fell silent, holding its breath in anticipation.
Suddenly, Wang Hu let out an eagle's cry and sprang forward. His Eagle Claw Skill shot straight for Feng Qingyuan's face with a piercing whistle.
Feng Qingyuan's eyes flashed. He launched himself forward, surging like a tiger charging down the mountain, his tiger claws meeting Wang Hu's. The few meters between them vanished in an instant. Wind howled, and their sleeves whipped about.
Bang! Their claws collided. A thunderous boom shook the entire arena, and Qi Force surged, tearing through the air in waves visible to the naked eye.
Both men retreated several steps. A flicker of surprise crossed Wang Hu's eyes. "Late-stage Dark Strength?"
That didn't match the intelligence. Wasn't Feng Qingyuan only at mid-stage Dark Strength?
This was clearly the strength of someone at the late stage!
Hong Jiantong and Xiong Jiang exchanged astonished glances at Guan Lie. Hong Jiantong then smiled. "Congratulations, Brother Guan. Your prized pupil has reached