Btth: Second chance of Xiao yan

The Wutan City competition was an annual event that drew the attention of the region's most prominent clans. Held in a grand arena, it served as a stage for young talents to showcase their prowess and claim recognition for their families. This year, however, the buzz was louder than ever, and much of it centered around a certain prodigy from the Xiao Clan.

Xiao Yan, standing among the competitors, exuded calm confidence. Despite his small stature and young age, his eyes gleamed with determination. Around him were participants from various clans, some towering over him, others sneering at what they perceived as a child out of his depth.

"Is this the so-called prodigy?" a boy from the Jia Clan sneered. "He doesn't even look like he belongs here."

Xiao Yan ignored the jibes, his focus unshaken. He had nothing to prove to them—his actions would speak louder than their words.

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The Rules and Pairings

Before the matches began, the announcer stepped forward, his booming voice silencing the crowd. "Welcome, everyone, to the annual Wutan City Youth Competition! Today, we witness the strength, skill, and potential of the next generation!"

The crowd cheered as the announcer continued, explaining the rules. The competition would follow a knockout format. Each match was a test of strength, technique, and strategy, with victory determined by knockout, submission, or inability to continue.

Participants drew lots to determine their opponents. Xiao Yan's first match was against a boy from the Liu Clan, Liu Qing, known for his brute strength and aggressive fighting style.

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The First Match

The arena fell silent as Xiao Yan and Liu Qing stepped into the circle. Liu Qing was older, taller, and visibly muscular, his confident smirk suggesting he didn't see Xiao Yan as a threat.

"Don't worry, kid," Liu Qing taunted, cracking his knuckles. "I'll make it quick."

Xiao Yan simply smiled. "We'll see."

As the referee signaled the start of the match, Liu Qing charged forward, his fists glowing faintly with Dou Qi. His approach was straightforward, relying on overwhelming strength to overpower his opponents.

Xiao Yan, however, was unfazed. Activating Iron Shadow Steps, he sidestepped Liu Qing's initial strike with ease, leaving his opponent punching at empty air. The crowd gasped as Xiao Yan's movements blurred, his agility making him nearly impossible to hit.

Liu Qing growled in frustration, throwing a flurry of punches and kicks, but Xiao Yan evaded them all effortlessly. Then, with a calculated strike, Xiao Yan countered. Using Flame Serpent Palm, he sent a burst of fiery Dou Qi straight into Liu Qing's chest. The impact sent Liu Qing stumbling backward, his shirt singed and his face pale with shock.

"Yield," Xiao Yan said calmly, standing poised for another attack.

Liu Qing hesitated, glancing at the referee before nodding reluctantly. "I… yield."

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Xiao Yan bowed politely to his opponent and stepped out of the arena. The announcer's voice boomed, "Winner: Xiao Yan of the Xiao Clan!"

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Growing Recognition

As Xiao Yan returned to the waiting area, the atmosphere around him shifted. Competitors who had mocked him earlier now regarded him with wary respect. Whispers of his victory spread quickly, and his name became the center of attention.

"That was incredible!" a younger participant said. "He didn't just win—he made it look easy."

Xiao Yan's calm demeanor remained unchanged. He knew this was only the beginning, and tougher opponents awaited him.

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The Next Challenge

The second round matchups were announced, and Xiao Yan's next opponent was someone he hadn't expected: Xiao Ning. His cousin had also advanced through the first round with ease, his performance reminding everyone of his formidable strength and skill.

As Xiao Ning approached Xiao Yan in the waiting area, his expression was a mix of pride and determination. "Well, Xiao Yan, it looks like we're going to settle this properly."

Xiao Yan met his gaze, a faint smile playing on his lips. "I look forward to it."

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End of Chapter 10

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