The Third Match: Li Xiang Takes the Field

Li Xiang looked back. It was Hong Tianbao.

"Hall Master?" He was somewhat overwhelmed by the attention.

"Hold still. This strap needs a firm knot, or it'll come loose when you start moving."

Hong Tianbao kept his head lowered, his expression focused as he personally adjusted every knot on Li Xiang's protective gear and checked that each fastening was secure.

Qin Zhong, who had just stepped off the platform and was drinking water, saw this and protested, "Master, aren't you playing favorites a little too blatantly? How come you didn't fuss over me like this when I went up?"

"Get lost."

Without looking back, Hong Tianbao tightened the protective gear around Li Xiang's waist and scolded, "You're a little hell-raiser who grew up scrapping in the mud. Even a dog passing by would lose a couple of mouthfuls of food to you."

As he straightened Li Xiang's collar, he lowered his voice, his tone becoming especially solemn.

"Li Xiang is different. He's never experienced real bloodshed in the martial world. His experience with life-and-death matches is practically nonexistent."

"He may have improved by leaps and bounds these past few days, but that was training, not killing."

Hong Tianbao patted Li Xiang's shoulder twice, channeling a warm current of martial force into him to settle the blood and energy stirring restlessly before battle.

"Remember what I'm telling you. Once you're up there, don't worry about all those damned rules."

"Use whatever comes naturally. Everything you've learned and grasped lately, whether it's Taizu Long Fist or Wing Chun Eight-Cutting Knives—if it can win you the fight, use it."

At this point, Hong Tianbao paused. "If your life is in danger, don't try to tough it out."

"I'll be watching from the sidelines the whole time."

"If there truly is no other choice,