As the crowd erupted in applause and murmurs of excitement, the atmosphere in the arena was electric. Conversations buzzed with admiration and speculation.
"Wang Liang's definitely the favorite now," a spectator declared confidently.
"He's practically unbeatable," another agreed. "Did you see how he handled that girl? Effortlessly."
Ling's brow furrowed with concern as she listened to the discussions. She turned to Han Li, her eyes filled with worry. "Han Li, do you think you can beat Wang Liang? He's incredibly strong."
Han Li smiled, exuding confidence. "Don't worry, Ling. I'm not just a level below him; my astral energy is far more potent. I'm already at the full level for the second stage of astral body refinement. I can break through any time. I'm confident that I can defeat him without even needing to break through."
Ling sighed, her expression softening. "I trust you, Han Li. I just... I don't want to see you get hurt."
Han Li gently squeezed her hand. "I won't. I promise."
The announcer's voice boomed over the loudspeakers, drawing everyone's attention. "Ladies and gentlemen, the next match will feature Ling, a non-elemental user at level one astral body refinement, against Mei Yan, a level one astral body refinement user with wind elemental power. Let the match begin!"
Ling stepped into the arena, her heart pounding. She took a deep breath, focusing on her training and her resolve. Mei Yan, her opponent, stood across from her, exuding confidence and determination. The wind around Mei Yan seemed to dance at her command, a testament to her control over her elemental power.
The signal to start echoed through the arena, and Mei Yan wasted no time, launching a gust of wind toward Ling. Ling quickly sidestepped, using her agility to avoid the attack. She knew she had to be strategic, relying on her non-elemental power to gain an advantage.
Mei Yan smirked, sending another powerful blast of wind in Ling's direction. Ling activated her control ability, momentarily stalling Mei Yan's movements. It was only for a second or two, but it was enough for Ling to close the distance between them.
With a swift motion, Ling landed a punch on Mei Yan's side, causing her to stagger. Mei Yan quickly recovered, summoning a whirlwind around herself, making it difficult for Ling to get close.
"You think you can beat me with just control?" Mei Yan taunted, her voice carried by the wind.
Ling remained focused, her mind racing. She had to find a way to break through Mei Yan's defenses. She activated her control ability again, this time using it to disrupt the whirlwind. The wind faltered for a moment, and Ling seized the opportunity.
She lunged forward, delivering a series of quick, precise strikes. Mei Yan countered with a flurry of wind-enhanced kicks, pushing Ling back. The two fighters moved in a blur of motion, each trying to gain the upper hand.
As the fight wore on, Ling could feel her energy waning. She needed to end this quickly. Gathering her remaining strength, she focused her control ability to its maximum potential. Mei Yan's movements slowed just enough for Ling to land a decisive blow, knocking her to the ground.
The crowd erupted in cheers as the announcer's voice boomed. "The winner is Ling!"
Breathing heavily, Ling helped Mei Yan to her feet. Mei Yan nodded in respect. "Well fought. You earned that win."
"Thank you," Ling replied, grateful for the acknowledgment.
As Ling left the arena, Han Li met her with a proud smile. "You did it, Ling! I knew you could."
Ling smiled back, exhaustion and relief washing over her. "Thanks, Han Li. Now it's your turn to show them what you're capable of."
Han Li nodded, determination gleaming in his eyes. "I will. And together, we'll make it to the top."