Started out getting scumbags, but then invested in the invincible Empress.

Chapter 121 Step back, I'm about to start showing off!

Inside the martial arts arena.

Soon after Li Wudao, Shen Ming, and the others arrived, news of the duel spread like wildfire throughout the entire sect.

Within the short time it takes for an incense stick to burn, nearly half of the disciples had arrived.

Even many elders and several peak masters were present, each sitting upright on the stands, their expressions expectant.

The clash between the newcomers who survived the Sword Ruins and the true disciples of the Sequence is truly interesting and not to be missed.

"The sect master is here!"

Just then, Murong Yan descended from mid-air.

He wore a jade crown and brocade robes, exuding an air of elegance. He stood with his hands behind his back on the high platform, looking down at the crowd with great majesty.

"I've met the sect master!"

"When did Master Brother emerge from seclusion?"

"The sect leader's aura has become much more refined. His cultivation has greatly improved since he emerged from seclusion this time."

The crowd's expressions changed slightly, and they quickly stood up to pay their respects. Several peak masters, however, seemed to understand what was happening and stepped forward to offer their congratulations with smiles.

"It's just a slight breakthrough."

Murong Yan nodded slightly, then asked curiously, "What day is it today? Why are so many people gathered here?"

"Reporting to the Sect Leader, we were all drawn in by the duel between Li Wudao and Shen Ming."

"Yes, Sect Leader, you may not know, but Li Wudao has returned alive from the Sword Ruins!"

"........"

Even the peak masters, who had long held high positions, could not hide their shock and excitement.

Whether it was Li Wudao emerging from the forbidden zone of life or his duel with the true disciples of the sequence, it was enough to shock them greatly.

"What?! Wudao is back alive?!"

Murong Yan was taken aback, his pupils contracted slightly, and then he glanced hurriedly at the audience below the stage.

When he saw the tall, white-clad youth in the center of the arena, a smile involuntarily crept onto his lips.

After a moment, he chuckled and joked, "This kid is really lucky; he didn't die..."

"So, can any of you explain to this sect master why these two are dueling?"

Murong Yan narrowed his eyes slightly.

With his cultivation level, he could tell at a glance that Shen Ming's realm was far superior to Li Wudao's, so there seemed to be no need for a duel.

"Reporting to the sect leader, it seems to be because of a bet..."

Hearing the information he had gathered, Murong Yan's expression became subtle. He hadn't expected that even the young sect leader would be involved in this matter.

His gaze swept over Wu Shaotian, who was sitting upright on the viewing platform, and he secretly guessed that there was something fishy about the matter. He planned to ask him in detail after the comparison was completed.

"Damn it, why did the sect leader have to emerge from seclusion at this time!"

Noticing Murong Yan's gaze, Wu Shaotian's expression darkened, sensing that the situation was slipping out of his control.

He proposed the duel to force Li Wudao to back down, not to escalate the matter of the Ruan family and profit from it.

Unexpectedly, Li Wudao was completely unyielding and dared to agree to such an obviously unfair duel.

That was fine, since Shen Ming would definitely win in the end anyway, so the matter was naturally dropped.

However, Murong Yan's appearance made him somewhat uneasy.

"Hopefully, the sect leader won't interfere with this matter..."

Wu Shaotian felt uneasy and could only comfort himself in this way.

Li Wudao had only recently joined the sect. Although he had good talent, he shouldn't have attracted the sect leader's attention yet.

at the same time.

A chilling wind swept across the high platform.

Without warning, an elderly man in a simple gray robe appeared.

He was unremarkable in appearance and had an ordinary demeanor, no different from any other ordinary old man, making him easy to overlook.

However, the moment they saw the old man, the peak masters present all changed color, their expressions filled with surprise and doubt, their eyes sharp and piercing.

Despite their cultivation levels, they didn't even notice the gray-robed elder's arrival, nor could they sense even a trace of his aura!

This person was none other than Xia Gucheng, the leader of Misty Peak.

Under the somewhat solemn gazes of the major peak masters, Xia Gucheng, carrying a wine gourd, quietly sat down next to Murong Yan and took a sip of wine.

"Old Xia, you're still as elusive as ever. What brings you out for some fresh air today?"

Murong Yan asked with a faint smile, surprised.

Based on his understanding of Xia Gucheng, he knew that Xia Gucheng was indifferent to worldly affairs and disliked crowds. Unless required by the sect rules, he would not even attend the disciple-acceptance ceremony.

It was quite unexpected that they would come to watch the game on their own initiative.

But then again, Li Wudao was, after all, his disciple, so it made sense.

Moreover, even with his keen eyesight, he could see that the young man possessed the Pure Yang Holy Body; he didn't believe that Xia Gucheng, who was even stronger, wouldn't be able to see it.

Upon closer examination, it seems that the purpose of this Misty Peak leader may have a deeper meaning.

"just looking around."

Xia Gucheng gazed into the direction of the arena, his eyes slightly deep, and said calmly, "It's been too long since I've stretched my muscles, so I came out to get some exercise."

Upon hearing this, Murong Yan was taken aback, feeling something was off, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.

Immediately, he seemed to realize something, and with a faint smile, he looked at the major peak masters and asked, "What are your thoughts on this duel?"

The peak master of Danqi Peak said, "Sect Master, is there even a question? It's definitely Shen Mingying."

"Yes, Li Wudao is only a Martial Grandmaster. It's impossible for him to remain undefeated against a Martial King for even a quarter of an hour unless Shen Ming goes easy on him."

The peak master of Jade Sword Peak curled his lip.

One cannot know the power of the King's Realm without ever entering it.

Any skill or combat experience is utterly pale and powerless in the face of an absolute difference in skill level.

........

Hearing the unanimous conclusions of the major peak masters, Murong Yan couldn't help but nod in agreement.

Even though he had high hopes for Li Wudao and recognized his potential, he couldn't help but waver at this moment.

Suddenly, Murong Yan remembered that Xia Gucheng had not yet expressed his opinion, and couldn't help but ask with a smile:

"Old Xia, do you think Wudao can hold his own against Shen Ming for a quarter of an hour without being defeated?"

Xia Gucheng tilted his head back and took a swig of wine. His gaze lingered on Li Wudao for a few moments before he said slowly, "That kid can't lose."

"Can't lose?"

Murong Yan was stunned, muttering to himself with a strange expression on his face.

What does it mean?

Could it be that this kid Li Wudao can really hold out against King Wu for a quarter of an hour?

"I cannot agree with what Peak Master Xia has said. Although Li Wudao is your only disciple, you cannot simply lie through your teeth, can you?"

The peak master of Danqi Peak frowned and said provocatively, "How about we make a bet? If Li Wudao wins, I will give Peak Master Xia a high-grade King-rank treasure for free. What do you say?"

"can."

To Murong Yan and the others' surprise, Xia Gucheng agreed without the slightest hesitation.

"My things are here, but where are yours, Peak Master Xia?"

The peak master of Danqi Peak raised an eyebrow and, with a snap, placed a crimson whip on the table.

Xia Gucheng glanced at him, his tone indifferent, "There's no need, you can't win anyway."

The expressions of the major peak masters changed slightly; this was blatant contempt.

"You... fine, we'll see!"

The peak master of Danqi Peak immediately turned red with anger, his body trembling. He wanted to explode, but was somewhat hesitant, and finally sat down in the chair with a flick of his sleeve.

At that time, on the arena.

Surrounded by the bustling crowd, Li Wudao clicked his tongue slightly, surprised that he had attracted so many onlookers, and felt a surge of pride.

Back when the newcomer competition was held, there weren't this many spectators. It was truly a spectacle for everyone.

Thinking of this, Li Wudao stroked his chin and sighed.

It seems he has no choice but to put on this act today.

After all, his initial goal was to establish his authority, quickly solidify his position, and gain a foothold.

This battle is undoubtedly the best opportunity.

In other words, he not only has to win this battle, but he has to win decisively and beautifully!

at this time,

An elder approached.

He kindly advised, "Young man, let it go. This duel is unnecessary. Just admit defeat now, or you'll hurt yourself."

Upon hearing this, Shen Ming, who was not far away, raised a disdainful smirk and shouted:

"Yes, Junior Brother Li, you'd better admit defeat now, or you'll suffer physical pain later. I, your senior brother, will not pay for your treatment."

"Ha ha--"

Hearing the teasing and joking in his voice, everyone burst into laughter, their gazes towards Li Wudao filled with amusement and pity.

That look in his eyes was as if he were looking at a clown who had brought shame upon himself...

"Stand back—"

Suddenly, Li Wudao spoke slowly.

"???"

The elder stood there, somewhat bewildered.

"Didn't you hear that?"

Li Wudao took a deep breath, glanced at him sharply, and said, "I said... please step back."

"I'm about to start showing off!"

The elder was taken aback: "..."