Days had passed since the whispers of the crimson-eyed demon had begun. Lin Yuan wandered through jagged mountains,
testing his Blood Core, sensing every pulse of spiritual energy in the surrounding land.
Shadows seemed to bend toward him, as if the world itself acknowledged the predator now walking among mortals.
A ripple of energy in the distance caught his attention.
Someone was approaching confident, disciplined, and proud. Lin Yuan narrowed his crimson eyes. This was no ordinary cultivator.
"I am Jian Feng," the young man said, stepping into the clearing. His aura was strong, unyielding.
"I've heard tales of your deeds. You defy Heaven itself, yet you call yourself a cultivator. Show me your strength!"
Lin Yuan tilted his head, a cold smile curling his lips. Show strength? No. They will feel it.
Jian Feng struck first, a whirlwind of precise attacks.
Lin Yuan moved like a shadow, faster than the eye could follow. Crimson energy wrapped his fists like living serpents, striking with deadly accuracy.
Every strike Jian Feng threw missed, every attempt to land a blow only fed Lin Yuan's Blood Core, strengthened his aura, and sharpened the demon inside.
Hours passed in a blur of crimson light and clashing energy. Jian Feng realized too late that he was no match not because of technique alone,
but because Lin Yuan's instinct, blood-fueled power, and ruthless cunning were beyond mortal comprehension.
With one final strike, Jian Feng fell to his knees, humiliated, drained, yet alive. Lin Yuan's aura flared,
crimson mist swirling around him like a living shadow.
Whispers would spread far and wide: the demon rises. Fear him.
"Power is taken. Fear is law. Remember this," Lin Yuan said softly, crimson eyes glowing like fire.
He turned, walking away from the fallen rival, leaving silence, dread, and the rising legend of the crimson-eyed demon in his wake.