Xu Mao could have been stronger.
Even in a two-on-one situation, he wouldn't have fallen so quickly if it weren't for his initial underestimation.
The blame lies in his initial arrogance.
If, at the outset, Xu Mao had not sheathed his battle sword upon witnessing Fang Xiu unleash the Dragon Claw Techniques but engaged in a fiery battle using the Solar Flare Sword Art, the outcome might have been different.
However, there are no "ifs".
After being injured by the White Tiger, his combat power decreased, and the power of the Sun Sword technique was not as formidable as at its peak.
At this moment, Xu Mao faced Fang Xiu head-on, unable to wield his sword effectively against Fang Xiu's Weighted Blade.
He also had to use sword energy to block the Dragon Claw Techniques, making the situation challenging.
As for the White Tiger behind him, it seemed utterly idle.
Speaking of talents, cultivation, and strength, Xu Mao compared favorably to Fang Xiu.