Chapter 6

In the pursuit of martial excellence, breaking through from the realm of Dou Qi to Dou Zhe was a significant milestone.

The most visible sign of this advancement was the condensation of a Dou Qi whirlpool within the practitioner's body.

However, Xiao Ning harbored ambitions that defied convention.

His goal was to gather ten cyclones of fighting energy simultaneously a feat that bordered on madness in the eyes of others.

"With Emperor Huang Tian's insights into opening the ten caves, this endeavor may be possible," Xiao Ning thought, his determination solidifying.

"First, I must consolidate my cultivation at the peak of the ninth stage of fighting spirit. A strong foundation is essential," he decided, mindful of the risks inherent in his unconventional approach.

With this resolve, Xiao Ning devoted himself wholeheartedly to his training, honing his skills and strengthening his body day after day.

Meanwhile, at the mountain behind the Xiao family residence...

"I've finally broken through to the realm of a fighter," Xiao Yan exclaimed, elated at his accomplishment.

It had been four years of rigorous training, but the fruits of his labor were finally within reach.

"Indeed, it was a fortunate breakthrough," Yao Lao acknowledged, observing his disciple's progress with satisfaction.

"Now that I've attained this level, it's time for me to leave the mountain," Xiao Yan declared, his determination evident.

Yao Lao understood the importance of this moment for Xiao Yan and offered no objections. He knew that Xiao Yan's defeat at the hands of Xiao Ning had left a lingering sense of inadequacy, one that needed resolution before his disciple could fully focus on his cultivation.

Meanwhile, in the backyard of the Xiao family residence...

Xiao Ning emerged from his medicinal bath, his aura brimming with power.

"Three thousand kilograms of divine power!" he exclaimed, exhilarated by his latest achievement.

With a month of intense training, Xiao Ning had increased his strength by another thousand kilograms, pushing his limits even further.

However, despite his success, Xiao Ning couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation regarding his next encounter with Xiao Yan.

"Why hasn't Xiao Yan made a move yet?" he wondered, his curiosity piqued.

As if in response to his thoughts, a voice called out from outside the house.

"Is cousin Xiao Ning here? Xiao Yan is here to visit!"

Xiao Ning's interest was immediately piqued as he welcomed his cousin inside.

"Is it true that Xiao Yan has broken through to the realm of a fighter?" Xiao Ning inquired, eager to gauge his cousin's strength.

"Yes, it was a fortunate breakthrough," Xiao Yan confirmed, his demeanor calm and composed.

"Last time, we made an agreement to meet after a month. Now that it's been a month and a half, I've come to fulfill our agreement," Xiao Yan stated plainly, his intentions clear.

Pleased by Xiao Yan's straightforwardness, Xiao Ning proposed a wager.

"If I win, you must pay me one hundred thousand gold coins," he declared, a confident smirk playing on his lips.

Xiao Yan accepted the challenge without hesitation, his confidence in his own abilities unwavering.

With both parties in agreement, the stage was set for their rematch.

Xiao Ning unleashed a powerful punch, imbued with half of his strength, while Xiao Yan countered with his own formidable fighting spirit.

The clash of fists echoed through the air, and in a flash, Xiao Yan was sent hurtling backward, blood staining the ground as he struggled to regain his composure.

"I... I... lost again," Xiao Yan conceded, his defeat apparent.

Despite his disappointment, Xiao Yan remained determined to overcome his adversary and reclaim his honor.

With their rivalry reignited, both cousins vowed to continue their pursuit of martial excellence, each determined to emerge victorious in their next encounter.

Afterward, Xiao Yan returned to his training regimen with renewed vigor, determined to close the gap between himself and Xiao Ning.

Meanwhile, Xiao Ning pondered his next steps, contemplating the possibility of achieving his audacious goal of gathering ten cyclones of fighting energy.

As days turned into weeks, both cousins dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to their respective pursuits, their determination unyielding in the face of adversity.

And so, the stage was set for their inevitable clash, where only one would emerge victorious, their resolve tested to its limits in the pursuit of martial supremacy.