The roar of the crowd vibrated through the arena. The sunlight glinted off the polished floor as Leo squared his stance, facing his opponent, Jiang Tao from China. The tension in the stadium was palpable. Every eye was on the combatants.
Jiang Tao: "So… the boy from Nepal has come. Let's see if you're worthy."
A surge of water energy coiled around Jiang Tao's body — the Water Dragon beast. Its presence rippled in the air like wind over a stormy lake.
Leo took a cautious step, feeling a slight ache in his ribs. Damn… I'm already feeling the strain from my last movements. Just focus, Leo. Your 1% power is waiting…
The battle began. Jiang Tao lunged first, a spinning kick that created a blur of water-like energy. Leo blocked, dodged, countered — but a sharp strike grazed his shoulder, pain flaring through him. He stumbled slightly, tasting blood.
Leo (inner thought): This isn't enough… I can't hold back anymore. It's time.
He centered himself. Golden light began to coil around him, faint at first, then spreading, blazing with intensity. The Lion spirit within roared, resonating with every fiber of his being. Leo felt it: his 1% beast power, fully awakened and mastered.
The world slowed. His senses sharpened. Every movement of Jiang Tao, every ripple of water energy — Leo could see it, anticipate it. He drew in a deep breath, letting the power surge through his body, filling him from crown to soles.
Leo: "This… is it."
In one fluid motion, Leo leapt, his fist blazing with golden energy. The punch connected directly with Jiang Tao's chest. The arena froze for a heartbeat — and then the impact exploded like a meteor strike.
Jiang Tao was sent flying across the arena, crashing against the far wall. The water energy shattered into countless droplets, dissipating in the air. Silence, then a wave of awe swept through the crowd.
Announcer: "Unbelievable! Leo from Nepal defeats Jiang Tao in a single strike! Absolute mastery of his 1% beast power!"
Leo landed, his golden aura fading but still shimmering slightly. His ribs throbbed, his shoulder ached, yet a grin spread across his face.
Leo (inner thought): Yes… this is what it feels like to fully master it. I can't stop now.
From the sidelines, Chen Wei cheered loudly, noodles forgotten in his hands.
Chen Wei: "That was insane! Leo… you really did it!"
Announcer: "And now… the next match! Chen Wei from China, step into the arena!"
Leo turned, clapping Chen Wei on the shoulder.
Leo: "Your turn, buddy. Show them what you've got."
Chen Wei nodded, eyes burning with excitement. The stadium roared again as the next round approached, the energy now doubling.