Big Losses

Having suffered a setback, Li Yuntian did not dare to be careless. He used his agile footwork to maneuver around Yang Kai, finding opportunities to strike. Soon, he had landed over a dozen blows on Yang Kai.

"Let this be a lesson for being so petty and making me run to the contribution hall so early," Li Yuntian thought gleefully. He struck with great force, each hit producing a loud thud on Yang Kai's body. Watching from a distance, Su Mu was delighted, almost feeling as if he were the one delivering the blows.

Both fighters were in the Body Tempering Realm, just beginning their martial arts journey. Their techniques were simple, and since Yang Kai was testing his physical limits, Li Yuntian gained the upper hand.

After a while, Yang Kai assessed that his current physique was in good condition, much better than before. With his goal achieved, he decided to end the confrontation.

Just as Li Yuntian was about to press his advantage, he noticed a sudden, frenzied gleam in Yang Kai's eyes, reminiscent of a predator spotting prey. This bloodthirsty excitement gave Li Yuntian chills.

Sensing danger, Li Yuntian tried to retreat, but Yang Kai blocked his path with a single step. Li Yuntian leapt to escape, only to be met with a powerful kick from Yang Kai that sent him flying several meters.

Before Li Yuntian could get up, Yang Kai was upon him, raining punches down relentlessly. Li Yuntian's screams filled the air.

The bout ended with Li Yuntian begging for mercy. At first, he attempted to resist, but Yang Kai's attacks were wild and unyielding, willing to trade injury for injury.

It didn't take long for Li Yuntian to realize that unlike himself, Yang Kai seemed to grow more excited the more he was hit, while Li Yuntian only felt increasing pain.

Who in the world gets more exhilarated the more they're beaten? By the end, Li Yuntian saw that Yang Kai's skin had turned red, blood pumping visibly beneath his surface, making him look like a mad demon.

Li Yuntian thought Yang Kai had gone mad. Yet, once the fight was over, Yang Kai returned to his calm and friendly demeanor, helping Li Yuntian up and cheerfully thanking him before leaving with the broom.

It was as if he were a different person when not fighting!

Li Yuntian, covered in bruises, regretted his actions deeply. He had not only lost the fight but also had his contribution points deducted and his herbs taken by Yang Kai. It was a complete loss.

Su Mu and his group, who had been watching, were equally stunned. When the fight began, they were eager, anticipating Yang Kai's defeat. They had even planned to taunt him afterward. But to their shock, Yang Kai fought Li Yuntian to a draw.

Su Mu was bewildered. "What level is Li Yuntian at?"

"He's at the seventh stage of Body Tempering, with some nascent energy but hasn't practiced martial skills for long," someone replied.

"And Yang Kai?"

"Probably the fourth stage," came the uncertain answer.

The group exchanged astonished glances. A three-stage difference, yet they were evenly matched. This was unprecedented in the history of Lingxiao Pavilion. No wonder Zhao Hu was defeated so easily the previous day. Given Yang Kai's current display of strength, even Zhao Hu at full power wouldn't stand a chance.

They were further stunned when Yang Kai actually defeated Li Yuntian. A Body Tempering fourth stage defeating a seventh stage—this had never happened before in the sect's history. Could a downtrodden disciple truly rise up like this?

Lost in thought, Su Mu felt a tap on his shoulder. Turning, he saw Yang Kai smiling warmly, broom in hand. "Senior Brother Su, let me know next time there's such a good opportunity."

"You knew all along?" Su Mu's expression twitched.

Yang Kai chuckled. "Though Brother Li hid in the crowd yesterday, I've always had a good memory."

"Devious!" Su Mu gritted his teeth, realizing they had been outsmarted.

"Likewise," Yang Kai replied with a smile. "Oh, and remember, I can challenge others daily. See you tomorrow."

The group's faces turned grim. Yang Kai seemed to have developed a taste for this, judging by his words. Seeing Li Yuntian's state, they shuddered, asking, "Su Shao, what do we do now?"

Su Mu was helpless. Challenges were a sect tradition; everyone faced them. Even with his backing, he couldn't violate the rules.

"Don't worry. He's probably just trying to scare you. If he actually challenges you, I'll handle it," Su Mu reassured them.

Relieved, the group calmed down. Yang Kai had been reminded by Li Yuntian about the daily challenge rule. Previously unused, he now saw the benefit. Winning a challenge against an ordinary disciple might only yield two contribution points, but over a month, it would add up.

Moreover, practicing against fellow disciples daily would enhance his skills. It was a beneficial routine, with contribution points as a bonus.

Today's challenge had been particularly rewarding: not just two points but also ten precious herbs. It was a great gain.

If only someone would offer him ten herbs every day, Yang Kai mused.

Back at his hut, Yang Kai lit some incense and continued his rigorous training.