Xiao Yan's victory came swiftly. The lingering aftershocks in the Martial Arena soon subsided, and the two figures reappeared before everyone.
Liu Ruyan was in poor condition. Half-kneeling on the ground, her snow-white robes were stained crimson with blood, and she had suffered no light injuries.
Compared to Liu Ruyan, Xiao Yan was in much better shape. Though his clothes were tattered and he looked somewhat bedraggled, he had not sustained any serious injuries.
"You lost."
Looking at Liu Ruyan before him, Xiao Yan's expression was slightly complicated as he slowly spoke.
"Yes, I lost. You're very strong..."
There was no anger at her defeat. Liu Ruyan merely smiled, her expression utterly calm.
"Our grievances end here. Farewell."
Though Liu Ruyan's indifferent response left Xiao Yan somewhat puzzled, he gave it no further thought. Turning around, he prepared to leave.
The three-year agreement had been fulfilled. There was no reason for him to remain any longer...
Yet at that very moment, Gu Ling's voice quietly rang out in Xiao Yan's mind. "Tsk, tsk, tsk. This Liu Ruyan's talent truly is terrifying. If you didn't have the Spirit Flame protecting your body, you might not have been her match..."
"She really is strong. If not for Teacher's guidance over these past years, perhaps I truly wouldn't have been able to catch up to her..." Xiao Yan slowly replied in his heart.
"This Falling Cloud Sect really is a place where crouching tigers and hidden dragons abound..." Gu Ling's voice sounded again, filled with admiration.
"Ruyan, are you all right..."
At this moment, Liu Zhengyang had also entered the arena. Looking at his daughter with a complicated expression, he asked with concern.
"I'm fine..."
Liu Ruyan gently shook her head. Though she was injured, her life was not in danger.
"I'll return