The semi-finals began the next morning, and the crowd had swelled to capacity. Whispers of Lin Yuan's victories filled the air, mixed with disbelief and envy. Many outer disciples who had once mocked him now watched cautiously, unsure if they could face him.
Lin Yuan's first opponent was Feng Tian, the same arrogant disciple he had humiliated in the early rounds. Feng Tian's face twisted with anger, his pride burned to ash. He stepped into the arena, aura flaring, and spat out, "Trash disciple… today I'll make you regret your arrogance!"
Lin Yuan remained calm, eyes focused. He had no interest in unnecessary cruelty, but he would not hold back. The system buzzed softly. [Combat Analysis: Feng Tian – Predictable emotional responses, overestimates own strength]
The bell rang. Feng Tian charged recklessly, striking with raw force. Lin Yuan sidestepped each attack effortlessly, letting Feng Tian exhaust himself against invisible defenses. The crowd gasped at how easily Lin Yuan countered, the aura around him growing stronger with each movement.
With precise timing, Lin Yuan struck at Feng Tian's side, unbalancing him. A swift combination of blows sent Feng Tian sprawling to the ground, his pride shattered. The arena fell silent for a moment, then erupted into whispers of awe. Lin Yuan had humiliated the arrogant disciple again—publicly, decisively.
[System Reward: Minor Fate Fragment Acquired] [Combat Efficiency: 95%]
Feng Tian groaned on the ground, barely able to lift his head. "Y-you…" he stammered, his anger mixed with fear. Lin Yuan approached calmly, his eyes cold but unflinching. "Kneel or leave," he said. Feng Tian had no choice but to kneel, swallowing his pride, as the crowd watched the decisive display of dominance.
Lin Yuan stepped back, wiping a trace of sweat from his brow. He had made a statement, one that could not be ignored. The Outer Sect Trial was no longer just a competition; it had become a platform for him to establish his reputation.
The system chimed softly. [Quest Update: Face-Slapped Rival – Progress +20%] [Reward Pending: Skill Enhancement Opportunity]
Lin Yuan looked across the arena at the remaining competitors. Many were shocked, some fearful, but all would now consider him a serious contender. He allowed himself a faint smile. The tournament was more than a test of strength—it was the first step in his path to absolute dominance, and he had taken it with precision and style.
As the next round approached, Lin Yuan felt a surge of anticipation. The strongest outer disciples were still ahead, and the system would guide him every step of the way. Today, he had proven that even the "trash disciple" could face the proud and powerful—and emerge victorious.