What followed after Bai Xueqing's effortless victory was a string of matches that—despite the prestige of the tournament—offered little to no suspense.
Most concluded in under a dozen moves.
Some didn't even last three moves.
One youth from the Ironwood Valley was knocked unconscious before he even drew his weapon.
Another girl from the Golden Feather Pavilion was sent flying by a single palm strike.
Even the referee's voice began to sound mechanical as he announced the outcomes.
"Winner: Lei Zhensheng of the Crimson Thunder Palace."
"Winner: Li Meiying of Li Clan."
"Winner: Shui Lian'er of the Celestial Jade Hall."
Her match, in particular, was strange.
The opponent had frozen mid-strike, eyes glazed, as if staring into a void only he could see.
Then he had simply dropped to one knee, defeated, before even understanding what had happened.
A few murmurs circled the crowd, especially from the sects who had done their research.
"Another win without lifting a hand…"
