Btth: Second chance of Xiao yan

The semi-finals concluded, leaving only two participants standing: Xiao Yan and Lin Shan, the prodigy of the Lin Clan. Lin Shan was renowned for his mastery of the Crimson Cloud Technique, a high-tier Yellow Grade skill that combined explosive offense with sturdy defense. Many believed he would take the championship, but Xiao Yan's performance had cast doubt on that assumption.

As Xiao Yan rested in the waiting area, he reviewed the system's analysis of his upcoming opponent.

"Lin Shan's Crimson Cloud Technique emphasizes overwhelming the opponent with bursts of Dou Qi while protecting himself with residual energy barriers. Host must focus on agility and precision to exploit openings in the technique."

Xiao Yan furrowed his brow. Lin Shan's reputation was well-earned, and the final match promised to be his toughest challenge yet.

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An Unexpected Encounter

While Xiao Yan meditated to recover his Dou Qi, a shadow fell over him. Opening his eyes, he saw Lin Shan standing nearby, his arms crossed and a confident smirk on his face.

"So, you're the Xiao Clan's little genius," Lin Shan said, his tone half-mocking. "You've made quite a name for yourself in this competition."

Xiao Yan remained seated, his expression calm. "And you're the Lin Clan's star. It seems we'll settle this in the finals."

Lin Shan's smirk widened. "Don't take it personally when I crush you tomorrow. You're good, but I'm better."

Xiao Yan stood slowly, meeting Lin Shan's gaze. "We'll see about that."

The tension between the two was palpable, drawing the attention of nearby participants. Lin Shan turned and walked away, his confidence unwavering, while Xiao Yan returned to his meditation, his determination stronger than ever.

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The Xiao Clan's Worries

Back at the Xiao Clan pavilion, Xiao Zhan and the elders discussed Xiao Yan's upcoming match.

"Lin Shan is no ordinary opponent," one elder said, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "His Crimson Cloud Technique has overwhelmed every competitor he's faced so far."

Xiao Zhan nodded, his expression serious. "But Xiao Yan isn't ordinary either. He's shown remarkable skill and composure throughout this competition. I believe in him."

The elders exchanged uncertain glances but didn't argue further. Xiao Zhan's faith in his son was unshaken, though even he couldn't deny the challenge ahead.

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The Night Before the Finals

That night, Xiao Yan sat in his room, reviewing the matches he had witnessed involving Lin Shan. The system's voice broke his concentration:

"Host has a pending reward for advancing to the finals. Would you like to claim it now?"

"Yes," Xiao Yan replied.

A surge of energy coursed through his body as the system announced:

"Reward: Enhancement of host's Flame Serpent Palm. Skill upgraded to mid-tier Yellow Grade. New effect: Increased range and lingering flame damage."

Xiao Yan clenched his fists, feeling the newfound power flowing through him. The upgrade gave him an edge, but he knew it wouldn't guarantee victory. Strategy and execution would be just as important.

As the moonlight streamed through his window, Xiao Yan closed his eyes, focusing on the upcoming battle.

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The Day of the Finals

The arena was packed, the excitement palpable. People from all over Wutan City had gathered to witness the final match between Xiao Yan and Lin Shan. The announcer's voice boomed across the arena:

"Ladies and gentlemen, the moment you've been waiting for has arrived! In the red corner, representing the Xiao Clan, Xiao Yan! And in the blue corner, representing the Lin Clan, Lin Shan!"

The crowd erupted into cheers as the two combatants stepped into the arena. Xiao Yan's calm demeanor contrasted sharply with Lin Shan's fiery confidence.

"Let's give them a show they'll never forget," Lin Shan said, his Dou Qi flaring to life in crimson waves.

Xiao Yan nodded, his own Dou Qi surging in response. "Let's."

The referee raised his hand, signaling the start of the match.

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End of Chapter 13

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