The Elders Rose as One

"Uncles, this ring is too small. Doesn't that make me a sitting duck?"

Lin Xiaotian deliberately put on a troubled look.

Xiao Jingxin covered her mouth, her voice soft and tinged with teasing:

"You've learned our Xiao Household's Gale Step. It isn't known for adaptability, but give you more room and you might find an opening, turning this into a drawn-out fight. That would defeat the whole point of the match."

Lin Xiaotian's face darkened.

The women giggled, plainly amused by his reaction.

There was a touch more warmth in their laughter now, unlike their earlier hostility. Perhaps they saw him as nothing more than a funny little clown.

Uncle Ming stroked his chin and spoke gravely:

"Our Xiao Household's Gale Step has limited use in martial combat. It isn't a technique known for agility; its conversion of Blood Qi excels instead at lasting endurance."

"The nature of the technique means you're bound to lose in such a confined space. With more room, you might have a chance."

"But in a space this small, even heaven-defying insight won't turn things around."

Lin Xiaotian looked at the four women, then at the three composed elders, and said:

"I'd like to confirm whether what you said earlier still stands."

Before the three uncles could answer, Xiao Jingxin replied:

"Of course it stands. Since when has the Xiao Household gone back on its word?"

Lin Xiaotian nodded and looked at the other three women.

"And you?"

The three sounded disdainful.

"Don't tell me you really want to take all four of us sisters."

"Even if we agreed, would you have the nerve?"

"Ladies, as you can see, this match is largely meant to let you vent your anger. If I do happen to win, I won't ask to take any of you. How