35:A familiar face.

The next match was announced with a wave of anticipation that rippled through the crowd: "Ryu Sho of the Mountain Martial Sect versus Jin Zhen of the Golden Tiger Clan!"

Rai Kan and Hi Ho exchanged knowing glances. "That's Ryu Sho," Hi Ho said, nudging Rai Kan. "Remember him?"

Rai Kan nodded, his eyes scanning the arena as Ryu Sho stepped forward. "Yeah, the sect master's personal disciple."

Hi Ho turned his gaze upwards towards the upper stands. "And there's Sect Master Li Feng himself."

The presence of such a prominent figure added an extra layer of tension to the match. Both fighters entered the ring with fierce determination. Ryu Sho, with his impressive physique and focused eyes, exuded a powerful aura. Jin Zhen, equally imposing, clenched his fists, ready for the fight.

The referee raised his hand. "Begin!"

Ryu Sho moved first, his speed and agility surprising many. He launched a series of rapid strikes, testing Jin Zhen's defenses. Jin Zhen countered with brute strength, blocking and retaliating with heavy punches. The clash of their techniques created a spectacle of raw power and refined skill.

Rai Kan watched intently. "Ryu Sho's improved since our last encounter."

Hi Ho nodded. "He's definitely stronger. Jin Zhen's no pushover either."

The match continued with both fighters exchanging powerful blows. Ryu Sho's technique was precise and disciplined, reflecting his rigorous training under Li Feng. Jin Zhen's style, while less refined, was relentless and forceful. The crowd cheered and gasped as the fighters showcased their abilities.

After several intense minutes, Ryu Sho managed to land a decisive blow, knocking Jin Zhen off balance. With a swift follow-up, he sent Jin Zhen sprawling to the ground. The referee stepped in, raising his hand. "Ryu Sho is the winner!"

The crowd erupted in applause, impressed by the display of martial prowess. Ryu Sho helped Jin Zhen to his feet, showing respect for his opponent. "You fought well, Jin Zhen."

Jin Zhen nodded, panting. "You're strong, Ryu Sho. I have much to learn."

As the fighters exited the ring, Sect Master Li Feng sent an envoy to fetch Rai Kan and Hi Ho. Rai Kan's match was next, so Hi Ho went alone, his nerves evident. He followed the envoy to the upper stands where Li Feng awaited.

Hi Ho bowed respectfully. "Sect Master Li Feng, it is an honor."

Li Feng smiled warmly. "No need for formalities, Hi Ho. Please, sit."

Hi Ho took a seat, feeling a bit more at ease. Li Feng's humble demeanor was disarming. "Thank you, Sect Master."

One of the elders accompanying Li Feng leaned forward, his eyes scrutinizing Hi Ho. "I've heard Rai Kan's fights are taking longer than usual. Has he grown weaker?"

Hi Ho shook his head. "No, Elder. I asked Rai Kan to hold back to avoid unnecessary trouble."

Li Feng's curiosity was piqued. "Hold back? Why?"

Hi Ho hesitated before answering. "In his previous battles, most of his opponents ended up dead. Those who survived were so severely crippled they couldn't live normal lives."

The elder raised an eyebrow. "Such brutality… Why is he so ruthless?"

Hi Ho sighed. "Rai Kan's power is immense. When he fights seriously, he doesn't hold back. It's not intentional cruelty; it's his nature to fight with everything he has."

Li Feng nodded thoughtfully. "I see. It's a double-edged sword, then. His strength is both a blessing and a curse."

Hi Ho agreed. "Yes, Sect Master. That's why I asked him to restrain himself. To avoid causing more harm than necessary."

Li Feng leaned back, considering Hi Ho's words. "Interesting. A warrior of such power, yet so young. He must have faced many hardships."

Hi Ho nodded. "He has. But he's also driven by a strong sense of justice. He doesn't fight without reason."

Li Feng smiled. "That's good to hear. A warrior should always have a purpose."

Hi Ho felt a sense of relief. "Thank you, Sect Master. Your understanding means a lot."

Li Feng waved a hand dismissively. "No need for thanks. I'm merely trying to understand your companion better. He seems like a remarkable young man."

Meanwhile, in the arena, the next match was announced, and Rai Kan stepped forward, ready for his turn. He felt the weight of the audience's expectations but remained focused. As he waited, he couldn't help but think about the conversation Hi Ho was having with Li Feng.

"I hope Hi Ho handles himself well," Rai Kan thought. "He's never met someone of Li Feng's stature before."

Back in the stands, the elder turned to Li Feng. "Sect Master, do you think Rai Kan poses a threat to our disciples?"

Li Feng shook his head. "No, I don't believe so. From what Hi Ho has said, Rai Kan fights with honor. As long as he remains true to that, he is not a threat but a worthy competitor."

Hi Ho couldn't help but feel a sense of pride hearing Li Feng's words. "Thank you, Sect Master. Rai Kan will prove his worth in this tournament."

Li Feng nodded. "I look forward to seeing it."

As the conversation wrapped up, the atmosphere in the arena grew more intense. Rai Kan took his place in the ring, his eyes scanning the crowd. He saw Hi Ho returning to his seat and gave him a nod of reassurance. Hi Ho smiled back, giving him a thumbs-up.

Rai Kan's opponent stepped into the ring, and the referee raised his hand to signal the start of the match. The tension was palpable, and everyone was eager to see how Rai Kan would perform.

"Let's show them what we're made of," Rai Kan thought, his determination unwavering.

The referee's hand came down, and the match began, marking the next chapter in Rai Kan's journey through the tournament, his strength and resolve put to the ultimate test.