Path of the Eternal

Chapter 11: The Semi-Finals Begin

The morning sun bathed the Azure Sect's grand arena in a golden light. The air buzzed with excitement as disciples and elders gathered to witness the semi-final matches. Today was a crucial day—only two would advance to the final battle for the position of Inner Disciple.

Jin Wei stood at the edge of the waiting area, his arms crossed as he scanned the arena. His body felt lighter, stronger. The system's passive enhancements had slowly refined his physical strength, and he could feel his control over Qi becoming sharper.

His opponent today was Liu Zhen, a top-ranking disciple in Body Tempering Stage 3. He was known for his brute strength and overwhelming martial techniques. Unlike Fang Li, Liu Zhen wasn't arrogant—he was a disciplined fighter, and that made him dangerous.

"Jin Wei."

Jin Wei turned to see Xue Qing approaching. She was dressed in her usual azure robe, her silver hair flowing like a waterfall. She studied him for a moment before speaking.

"Your opponent, Liu Zhen—don't underestimate him. His Iron Tiger Fist is powerful, and his endurance is remarkable."

Jin Wei smirked. "You sound worried."

Xue Qing's gaze remained steady. "I'm just warning you. If you lose, it'll be boring to fight someone else in the finals."

Jin Wei chuckled. "Then I guess I have no choice but to win."

A booming voice interrupted them.

"The first semi-final match: Jin Wei versus Liu Zhen!"

The crowd roared in excitement as both fighters stepped onto the stone platform.

Elder Han raised his hand. "Begin!"

Liu Zhen wasted no time. His muscles bulged as he stomped forward, his fists glowing with golden Qi.

"Iron Tiger Fist—Crushing Strike!"

His punch came down like a hammer, aiming straight for Jin Wei's chest.

Jin Wei's eyes flashed as he activated Flowing Step. His body moved fluidly, dodging the strike by a hair's breadth. The impact of Liu Zhen's fist cracked the stone beneath them.

The crowd gasped.

"He's fast!"

"But Liu Zhen's strength is on another level!"

Liu Zhen smirked. "Not bad. But let's see how long you can dodge!"

He attacked again, this time launching a rapid barrage of punches, each one carrying the force of a boulder. Jin Wei moved swiftly, sidestepping, ducking, and weaving through the attacks.

But then—Liu Zhen suddenly twisted his body mid-strike, launching a spinning kick!

Jin Wei's eyes widened. He set a trap!

With no time to dodge completely, he raised his arm to block.

BAM!

The force sent Jin Wei skidding backward, his feet scraping against the stone platform. His arm throbbed from the impact, but he remained standing.

Liu Zhen grinned. "You're tough. But let's see if you can handle this!"

He stomped the ground, channeling Qi into his legs. His body became heavier, his presence more oppressive.

"Iron Tiger Fist—Mountain Shattering Strike!"

A single punch came at Jin Wei, carrying overwhelming force.

The crowd held its breath.

But Jin Wei's eyes glowed with determination.

"It's time to counterattack."

He planted his foot down, gathering Qi into his palm.

"Iron Body Palm—Piercing Strike!"

His palm met Liu Zhen's fist head-on. A shockwave exploded outward, shaking the entire arena.

For a moment, the two fighters stood locked in place. Then—a loud cracking sound filled the air.

Liu Zhen's body trembled. His face twisted in shock as pain shot up his arm. His fist had been overpowered.

Jin Wei twisted his palm and sent Liu Zhen flying backward, landing hard outside the ring.

"Winner—Jin Wei!"

The arena fell into stunned silence before erupting into cheers.

"He won!"

"Jin Wei just beat one of the strongest!"

Jin Wei exhaled, relaxing his stance. His Qi reserves were lower than expected, but he had achieved victory.

As he stepped down from the platform, he noticed Xue Qing watching him, her lips curled slightly in a rare smile.

"You actually did it in three moves. Impressive," she said.

Jin Wei smirked. "Told you I'd win."

She studied him for a moment before speaking again. "Don't get too comfortable. The finals won't be this easy."

Before Jin Wei could reply, a voice interrupted them.

"The next match—Xue Qing versus Wu Yan!"

The semi-finals weren't over yet. And soon, the final battle for the championship would begin.

Jin Wei watched as Xue Qing stepped into the arena, her aura like an unshakable glacier.

"This fight… will show me just how strong she really is."