-Illusionary Finger-
Rarity: Uncommon
Grade: Middle
Level: Stage 2 / Stage 5
Type: Active
Cost: 500 Martial Qi
[Despite its reputation of being the weakest of any ''flying finger'' techniques, the very fact that it is one at all garners a certain amount of respect. Due to it being still a relatively common technique of the middle tier rank the distance of the shot illusion and its strength are relatively small.]
Stage 1: 5-meter distance, 408 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 2: 10-meter distance, 618 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 3 Progress: 200 repetitions.
-Flaying Steam Palm-
Rarity: Uncommon
Grade: Peak
Level: Stage 2 / Stage 5
Type: Active
Cost: 1,000 Martial Qi per minute + 1,000 Martial Qi for a steam projectile.
[A technique which coats the arms of a martial artist with a hot steam formed by Martial Qi. The user also has to coat his own hands with another layer of Martial Qi so that the technique wouldn't burn him as well. Those who master this technique often use it to simply induce passive extra damage rather than use the actual projectile because it is more cost effective to keep the steam rather than release it.]
Stage 1 (Passive): +50 bonus heat damage to all passive damage done with hands.
Stage 1 (Active): Flaying Steam Palm projectile has 5-meter distance, 630 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 2 (Passive): +75 Bonus heat damage to all passive damage done with hands.
Stage 2 (Active): Projectile has 10-meter distance, 840 damage for a solid hit.
Stage 3 Progress: 245 repetitions.
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Ophelia was sitting in the middle of her courtyard, meditating to recover back her Qi. It had been little over four hours since the second round of the second round began. In that time Ophelia had decided to grind her Illusionary Finger and managed to advance one stage further.
While she had been in middle of her zealous training, she actually forgot to keep some Qi in reserve and was now empty. It would suck if it was her turn and she showed up without any Qi. Thankfully Ophelia avoided that kind of fate and she soon was filled with Qi.
''Training Flayed Steam Palm efficiently with a low amount of Qi just sucks. Maybe I should just focus on Illusionary Finger for the time being?'' Ophelia reasoned, at the same time she could hear a knock on her door.
''Miss? It is Aino. I just came to inform that your third round opponent also gave up.'' Aino said as he stood in the door crack.
''Oh, that is great. Now tell me how others are doing?'' Ophelia asked while she began to hit nearby target dummies with her Illusionary Fingers.
''Yes Miss. It is going as expected. Mr. Roman's opponent already forfeited so did his third stage opponent. I don't know if Roman has to fight anymore at all. He probably has already won the seventh bracket.'' Aino began.
''Hina's opponent also gave up. Stage 3 Qi Awakening warrior has no chance against Stage 5 like Hina. So it was also expected. Maria surprised everyone by defeating a Qi Awakening Stage 4 warrior and was revealed to be Stage 4 warrior herself.'' She continued.
''Ah, thought so. Maria is always working hard so it is not surprising.'' Ophelia praised while thinking. 'Actually, if I didn't have a dirty cheat power, I think that I and Maria would be in similar positions.'
''Dina was also victorious. After a long scrappy battle, she managed to defeat another Stage 3 warrior. Not sure why she is continuing to fight though. She clearly has no way to win her bracket as she is going to be paired against Maria sooner or later.'' Aino concluded.
''Dina is playful and lazy, but still managed to become Stage 3 Qi Awakening warrior. If she took the training more seriously, I think she might become quite formidable.'' Ophelia said.
''Hina, Dina, and Maria, along with Mr. Roman and you Miss, have all good chances of getting accepted into Golden-ridge Dragon Martial House. Along with the bracket champion's of course.'' Aino summed.
'Well, Roman, Hina and I are basically already in. Maria is also a higher than average talent. Rivaling the First Sister when she was young, or so I heard.' Ophelia thought to herself.
''Aino, please keep me informed if I need to fight anyone, alright?'' Ophelia asked while Aino gave affirming nod. ''That is what I am here for.'' She said and left to catch more fights.
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Soon another four hours passed, then it turned into eight hours. Ophelia sat down in meditation. Illusionary Finger had reached the third level of mastery. The illusion that was produced looked bigger than before and was closer to Roman's Illusionary Finger.
Ophelia thought about training it further, but showing fourth or fifth level [Uncommon] martial technique would probably be a little too much. Especially since her age was so young. She had already established herself by reaching extremely high Qi Awakening realm at only thirteen years of age, so she didn't wish to risk becoming demonized.
Instead of training in offensive techniques, Ophelia meditated. After she was full of Martial Q she left her room. Aino hadn't returned for nearly eight hours so she wondered where she was. Ophelia made it to her courtyard and was greeted by a gas-dwarf moon. ''Oh right, It's night...that rhymed.'' Ophelia chuckled at herself.
Thanks for her Qi Awakening Stage 6 cultivation she could stay up for nearly a week without rest, so she hadn't even noticed the night and managed to stay energetic even so late. Also, there were no fights scheduled at nights so it a was great time to relax. 'I guess I might as well stroll around a bit, it will do me no good to overwork myself.' Ophelia thought as she left her courtyard.
Streets of Golden-ridge City were quiet. Occasionally Ophelia came across one or two people. Quietly Ophelia's little stroll became a little jog, then a run. And about hour later she had done her daily cardio training and she collapsed on her courtyard's grassy carpet, wheezing.
''Haff...huff...why did that happen? Damn...haah...habit...'' Ophelia gasped for air and meditated some more to calm her breathing. 'I have trained so much that even a basic walk turns into a sudden training session. This could be a problem in a future.' Ophelia thought.
'I wonder if anyone else is awake. I don't feel like training constantly, maybe someone else is awake to tell me what the results of day one were?' Ophelia made a plan to spend some time walking on the Drakern District. She had to restrain herself with some difficulty, her instincts told her to keep running instead of walking with such leisure.
As Ophelia kept walking past multiple courtyards, houses, and mansions. She became quite certain that she was only one who was appreciating the moon tonight. 'It brushes by closer and closer every single year.' Ophelia thought while admiring.
Ophelia remembered back to teachings her mother had taught her while she was still around. Ophelia was only six but she still remembered when her mother taught her about astrology. Suddenly, she felt like she was being pulled into the memory of what her mother had told her.
''Ophelia, do you see that big light in the sky? What? No, it is not the Sun. That is what we call Daenma. Once every year it circles our great Land. Oh, what is a year? A year is a measurement of the time it takes Daenma to circle our great Land.
There are many stories about an event called Daenma's Cry. Once every ten thousand years the path of Land and Daenma come close to brush against each other.
When those two align something terrible is said to happen. It is told that Daenma cries a stream of vicious blood and that it rains upon the Land where it becomes seeds for new life. According to legends, those seeds are said to give birth to a destruction of our world. Paving a way for new life to bloom.
Each passing year Daenma crawls closer, ready to unleash its children upon the world. I feel it that we may live to witness Daenma's Cry one day.''
'Demons from the Moon? I look forward to seeing if the legends are true.' Ophelia thought as she walked past a courtyard belonging to one of her friends. Inside the courtyard, she could hear loud shouting.
Ophelia was curious to see what was happening, so she took a peek by lifting herself above the outer wall. What Ophelia saw was something that she didn't think she would ever see.
A figure was kneeling in front of a practice dummy. This figure had a messy brunette hair and wore a ripped robes that were stained by dirt and sweat. And a face which always appeared aloof and carefree in public was contorted in frustrated pain.
If Ophelia didn't know that this courtyard belonged to Dina she wouldn't have recognized her at all. Dina's indicating that she had been crying, her hands that grasped the mud below were stained with a mixture of dirt and blood.
Ophelia could see Dina slowly standing up from the mud, hitting the training dummy with her filthy hands. A pair of servants, a boy, and a girl were looking at her with worried expressions.
''My Lady, please stop...stop it already...'' Boy's pained voice cried. He could hardly look at her lady like this.
''Ms. Dina, please...'' The maid was also worried but couldn't find the words to make Dina feel better.
''Shut up, both of you! And leave me the HELL alone!'' Dina growled as she hit the dummy in frustration. Ophelia had never seen Dina like this before.
'She lost her fight, probably lost badly as well.' Ophelia wanted to console her friend but didn't want to make the situation awkward for Dina. She just endured and kept watching.
''Every. Single. Day. I exercise and exercise and push myself to limit each and every day. Why, why am I like this?'' Dina growled and slammed the dummy again.
''I train just as much as Ophelia, harder than Maria and definitely more than Hina. Why am I lagging so far behind? Just what is it that I lack? Talent? Is it talent I lack? I cannot accept that. With effort people can change that.'' Dina uttered with spiteful frustration, her regular bubbly voice was nowhere to be heard.
A talent was a mysterious thing. Lack of this talent separated regular people and those who are born special. Those who are born with natural physical or mental gifts are what are commonly referred to as a genius. A gap between genius and a regular person is nearly impossible to fill.
A person who is gifted with amazing memory and reasoning can deduce mathematical problems quickly and with a little effort. While someone cannot wrap their minds around certain problems no matter how hard and how long they study for.
'People are not born equal after all.' Ophelia thought. This was a cold, hard fact. There were always dreamers in the Old World who said all people were born equal and that all people start as blank papers. Ophelia hated this kind of idealistic thinking.
'Dina has the will to improve, she will go far. But Hina who seems to be natural at martial arts doesn't need to put nearly as much effort in her training. No matter how much Dina tries she will never surpass Hina. That is even worse in my case. I...I don't know what I could say to her.' Ophelia lowered herself back from the wall and began to walk away.
Ophelia reached Stage 6 of Qi Awakening Realm. What can a person who reached that kind of level so easily say to a person who is three levels below her, without sounding insincere? 'Maybe I could offer to help her? No, that would mean I think that she cannot walk the path on her own two feet. She would hate me for saying that.'
Ophelia walked back to her courtyard, ready to train more and think what she could do to help her friend.
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In a meanwhile Drakern family's current Patriarch, Alaric Drakern was holding a meeting with his sons, elders and Tertiary Dragon Sect's Envoy, Miun Kitara, who also had an elder accompanying her. She too wore an azure robe which carried a symbol of a three clawed dragon.
This elderly lady was Golden-ridge Dragon Martial School's, Dean. Although her face was old and wrinkled, and her hair was scarce and what little remained was gray, she still radiated power.
''Little Kitara and Mrs. Hui-Lu, what do you think of this year's batch?'' Alaric asked while taking a sip of alcohol.
''Patriarch Drakern, I think that the quality this year is high. Aside from fifteen years old, already established competitors, we had some surprised today. Ms. Ophelia, Ms. Hina, Mr. Reynald and Ms. Maria are all exceptionally talented, especially Ms. Ophelia who has reached Stage 6 or Qi Awakening.'' Dean Hui-Lu praised.
''Indeed.'' Miun continued. ''Also Ms. Dina, Ms. Aria and Mr. Llorn all showcased unyielding fighting spirit. Stage 3 of Qi Awakening is no means terrible and I think they all have bright future's ahead of them.''
''Also the fifteen-year-old Mr. Roman is the biggest candidate to win the whole tournament, followed closely by Mr. Leynarin. Mr. Leynarin could reach Stage 6 at any moment.''' Miun added.
''There is also the fourteen-year-old surprise, Karwin.'' Reyes spoke up.
''Yes, yes. He came as a surprise, he was only Stage 2 Qi Awakening warrior a year ago but has rapidly advanced to Stage 5. But I haven't seen him visit the Martial Pavilion much, so I don't think he ha s been practicing his martial skills. Instead, he is focusing on blindly increasing his realm. Haah, the naïvety of youth.'' Gareth sighed.
''Ain't that fine?'' Reyes argued. ''While learning actual techniques is, of course, important isn't it the foundation what ultimately matters in the end? Also, [Common] & [Uncommon] level martial techniques aren't that great, to begin with.''
''Either way. It is good for young people to learn what it is like to learn a technique, no matter how elementary. How could they learn how to run before they know how to crawl?'' Gareth put his foot down.
''Now, now.'' Alaric intervened. ''Both of your ideologies hold merit, but after they enroll to Mrs. Hui-Lu's school everyone will have a balanced curriculum with well-tailored teaching plan.''
''Indeed, also thanks to Drakern family's discipline and patience all of them are eligible of learning the Lesser Serpentine Circulation method.'' Dean Hui-Lu commented.
''Mmm...'' Reyes & Gareth nodded.
''I must say, I am forward to seeing how long it takes for Roman, Hina & Ophelia to advance to Martial Foundation Realm. After reaching the first stage of Martial Foundation Realm they are eligible to enroll to my Tertiary Dragon Sect.'' Miun chimed in.
''Well, considering how quickly Hina and Ophelia have advanced this year, it wouldn't surprise me if either one of them could make it to Martial Foundation Realm in a year. Lesser Serpentine Circulation is a much better method of circulating Qi so the speed that their cultivation climb should increase explosively.'' Alaric said smiling.
''It will work out great,'' Reyes stated. ''As a father, I am glad that my daughter has cleared the conditions required to begin training with Lesser Serpentine Circulation. Usually, even greatest geniuses begin their training when they reach Stage 5 of Qi Awakening when they are fifteen.''
''It is such a shame that in order to train great technique like Lesser Serpentine Circulation, you must keep your training as basic and uncontaminated as possible. Watching our children struggle using Basic Qi Circulation is so difficult to watch.'' Reyes added.
Gareth smiled and looked at his brother. ''Brother, we have gone over this. Children who have no willpower or talent to reach Stage 5 of Qi Awakening Realm in two years have no future to rise to great heights. They should be happy with mortal life.''
''I know,'' Reyes mumbled.
'Our family has to teach and send all of our children to walk the path of dragons. It has been the purpose of our family for ages, it is an oath as old as our very family. And we must honor it. This was the purpose our ancestors were gifted these training methods.' Alaric thought.
''Patriarch Drakern, what are you thinking about? I have been a friend to this family for a long time. You do not need to hide anything from me or my disciple.'' Dean Hui-Lu commented.
''I know, it is just that I am always wary when speaking about our secret techniques,'' Alaric said while scratching the hair on the back of his head. ''Even if there are not many who would begin training according to teachings of Lesser Serpentine Circulation, it is still our secret Qi Circulation method that should not be leaked to the public. I am sure Ms. Kitara agrees.'' Alaric said as he turned to glare towards Miun.
''As an outsider who has greatly benefitted from Lesser Serpentine Circulation method, I agree.'' Miun quickly nodded.
Miun Kitara was Tertiary Dragon Sect's representative envoy, Dean Hui-Lu's protege and one of the few outsiders who was given the privilege to learn Drakern family's secret skills. By sharing the cultivation method with Dean Hui-Lu and letting her protege to learn it, builds trust and invincible ties between them.
It was long ago when Alaric decided to disclose the technique to few family friends in hope of them growing into instructors who would, later on, teach the children of the Drakern family. Dean Hui-Lu was one of those people.
''Oh, by the way, Ms. Miun. How long has it been since you have liquefied your Qi?'' Alaric asked.
''So you did notice! Thanks to Lesser Serpentine Circulation I am still making rapid progress. It was two months ago.'' Miun gracefully nodded towards Alaric.
''You've made amazing progress, you may even reach Swirling Core by age of thirty.'' Alaric praised.
''My, then I wouldn't be able to visit at upcoming years.'' Miun giggled bashfully.
''By attaining Swirling Core by that age would catch Secondary Dragon Sect's attention. I wish Hina can reach Swirling Core as well.'' Reyes dreamed.
''But enough about me and my accomplishments, these days should be all about the children.'' Miun smiled, as the Drakern family's elders nodded.
''Six rounds have already been completed. Ophelia and Roman have only fought once, although Ophelia's fight wasn't as eye catching as Roman's it seems that people still understood her strength quite well. Neither of them had to fight since. I also doubt Roman has to fight before the Champion's Bracket.'' Alaric recapped.
''If nothing goes wrong Karwin is going to dominate rest of the first bracket. Ophelia may need to fight at-least once more before she takes the second bracket.'' Reyes began. ''Reynald most likely wins the third bracket, while the fourth bracket will be dominated by Leynarin.''
Alaric agreed and gave a firm nod.
''Ms. Hina is skilled and will not have much opposition in the fifth bracket and the sixth bracket has two winning candidates. Mr. Leobold and Ms. Lazuria.'' Miun continued.
''And finally the seventh bracket is going to be dominated by Roman and eight bracket is still unpredictable,'' Alaric concluded.
''Let's hope that all of the contestants give their best tomorrow, I want to see the top contestant myself.'' Dean Hui-Lu noted and yawned. ''Mmn, I seem to have grown tired. I will retire for the rest of the night, my body is not energetic like it used to be.''
''On that note, I think this is a good moment to end this meeting,'' Alaric stated and stood up, opening the door for Hui-Lu. Each participant agreed as they went their separate ways.
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''...50!'' Ophelia finished counting and opened her eyes. She had spent five hours circulating her Qi through her spirit-veins. Ophelia spat out a foul tasting bile and proceeded with her morning routine of washing herself and dressing up.
'I will go with a white setup today.' Ophelia thought and changed her clothes. Aino was nowhere to be seen so Ophelia decided to do something else today. She decided to solve some mysteries. Most pressing was the meaning of her attributes.
Some of the attributes and their effects were easy to see. Vitality, Endurance, and even Spirit raised their respective statistic by exactly 50 points. 'Well, at least that is simple. Vitality affects my Health, Endurance my Stamina and Spirit my total amount of Qi'.
However, Dexterity and Mind are way more difficult. Ophelia immediately knew that Dexterity had something to do with all kind of activities where feats of speed were necessary. However, how could she test exactly what each individual point of Dexterity actually did? Maybe she could do running tests and when she gained free points she could just add one to Dexterity to see if her time becomes better.
Before she would bother to test her current speed, she decided to instead focus on figuring out her own physical strength. Ophelia had various different weights on her courtyard so experimentation with them wasn't too difficult. After bench pressing a single ton weight and feeling that she couldn't lift anymore, she reasoned that each point of strength was equal to around 25 kilos.
Since she couldn't see a status of other people she had no idea what did strength do in damage calculations. 'Maybe there is a martial technique that lets me spy on my enemies and read them like an open book?'
After loitering around some more Ophelia decided to leave her courtyard by herself and make it back to the tournament venue. Ophelia could see that the fights were in full swing. She walked to same seats she and her friends were seated yesterday. She could only see Aino and Hina, and her maids.
''Morning, which round is it?'' Ophelia asked and signaled Aino to make room.
''Oh! Miss, you came! It is the seventh round. It seems no one is willing to face off against you. Congratulations on making it to Champion's Bracket.'' Aino congratulated.
''Not so fast, who am I supposed to fight in this round?'' Ophelia pressed.
''Julio, he is fifteen and has only reached Stage 4 of Qi Awakening. His give up announcement should come before the last match before you're scheduled to fight.'' Aino answered.
''I see. Well Hina, how has the tournament treated you?'' Ophelia began.
''Mm,'' Hina grunted.
''Good? You do seem to be a bit fatigued. A massage?'' Ophelia cheekily offered.
''Nn, I need to visit a salon later,'' Hina mumbled, either completely missing that Ophelia was teasing her or just unconsciously ignoring her.
'Never change Hina, never change.' Ophelia thought and joined Hina in her silence as they both observed fights to come.
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Meanwhile, on the VIP seats Alaric, Gareth, Reyes, Miun and Hui-Lu were observing the fights. Gareth also noticed that Ophelia had returned to the stadium.
''Ophelia has returned? She will be disappointed that she is not going to find an opponent in the seventh round either.'' Gareth remarked. Alaric only now noticed Ophelia and leaned closer to Gareth.
''You already know that Julio is going to surrender?'' Alaric asked and stroked his beard.
''Yeah,'' Gareth admitted. ''He only came out today to gain some experience. He already told the referee before hand that he wouldn't fight in the seventh round.'' Gareth said regretfully.
Alaric's eyes shifted a little, he was displeased when it came to Roman's and Ophelia's opponents. Where was the ambition and the never give up attitude? If you're going to surrender like this how can you become a true martial artist?
''How unbecoming...are they really members of our family?'' Reyes scoffed. Surrendering without putting up a fight didn't sit well with him either.
''Ain't it fine?'' A mellow voice ringed. ''A tournament like this which is relatively public casts a huge pressure on weaker participants. It is no wonder no one wants to fight and be embarrassed by losing quickly. I myself would put up a fight against an opponent who is a stage or two higher than me in private, but would I dare to fight in public without tricks? Probably not.'' Miun explained.
''Although it is a bit of face loss by surrendering before the battle, sometimes losing badly can lose you, even more, face,'' Hui-Lu spoke. ''Youngsters, especially men do not wish to be beaten to submission by a girl, especially when she is just thirteen.'' She added.
''Hmph, I still expect the members of our family to act with more pride.'' Reyes hissed.
''I concur. Maybe we should teach the importance of trying your best in the future. I didn't think that the sense of personal pride among our family members was this low.'' Alaric sighed. ''Although there are good points too. I've been told by the Disciplinary Elder that there are very little bickering and conflicts between the younger generation of our family.''
''Although it is certainly good that children are getting along there are also bad points to this kind of environment Father,'' Gareth spoke. ''Rivalries and conflicts build character and strength. Those who have something to prove tend to grow further and faster.''
''Brother, that is something I agree on.'' Reyes laughed.
''But we have already announced the reward for winning the preliminary brackets,'' Alaric said. ''A rare technique along with a Spring Vitae Root. Don't tell me the youngsters of this generation have no idea what a Spring Vitae Root actually is?'' Alaric shook his hand in disbelief.
''Well it is a reward so they know that it must be good, but I don't know how many are actually aware of its effects. Also, we should add one more reveal to bracket winners, and announce it as the eight round begins.'' Gareth said as he fetched a small red wooden box from his inner pockets.
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''Son, this is?'' Alaric shifted his head in a curious manner as Gareth opened the box in his hands.
Inside the box was fitted with a red satin like fabric. Eight, small, black balls were resting neatly in two rows of four. Each of the pills gave a chilling feeling. Suddenly Alaric snatched the box from Gareth's hands and quickly closed the lid.
''Son, are you out of your mind? Coagulated Wyrm Blood Pellet is not something that should be given as a reward on an occasion like this! If any of those children were to consume this medicine they would explode. What are you thinking?'' Alaric spasmed.
''Che!'' Gareth scoffed. ''Of course, they would receive instructions to not directly consume it! By first consuming Spring Vitae Root the endurance and vitality in their bodies should see a dramatic increase. Then by adding this Coagulated Wyrm Blood Pellet to a boiling bath water and absorbing it by soaking in it, that way they should be able to absorb at least 50% of its medical properties without any side effects. For children that age it would be a huge boon.'' Gareth argued.
''Haa...'' Alaric sighed. ''I don't know where or when you acquired these medicines, but they are yours so do as you wish. However, should there be complications...'' Alaric's gaze turned sharper.
''Father, I know. Please relax or you're going to pop a vein.'' Gareth laughed.
''Yes, yours,'' Alaric said and knocked Gareth on the head with a small amount of force.
''Now I really hope Hina manages to win her bracket.'' Reyes smiles, hoping that her daughter would perform well.
Miun giggled as he saw Gareth's and Alaric's antics. Cultivation was a strange thing and did even stranger things to ages of those who practiced it. If an outsider saw Gareth and Alaric side to side they would think that they were brothers. Despite Alaric being way, way older than Gareth.
Reyes who was younger than Gareth, but behind him in cultivation would still grow to look even older.
''Miun, don't think too much of it,'' Hui-Lu said as she noticed her protege's curious look. ''Even I don't know how old Alaric is or the realm he has reached.'' She said and shook her head.
''Eh? Master doesn't know either?'' Miun gasped. ''What about Gareth or Reyes?'' She asked with a whisper.
''I remember meeting Reyes when he was a child, and Gareth was already a fine young man back then.'' Hui-Lu reminisced.
'And how old are you then, and when was that ''back then'' anyway?' Miun almost blurted out. Her master never answered that, no matter how much she wished to know. I guess woman's secret must always stay a secret.
''Miun.'' Hui-Lu suddenly called out, startling Miun for a second. Did she somehow pick up what she was thinking?
''Y-yes what is it, Master?'' Miun stammered.
''Since you're so concerned with how old everyone around you is, then why don't you take up interest in one of the various young masters at the Tertiary Dragon Sect.. Or maybe someone like Young Roman fits your particular tastes?'' Hui-Lu said, with a deadly serious expression.
''Master!'' Miun cried out. This kind of bullying was too much.
''Eh? Miss. Kitara is interested in marrying to the family? First I have heard of it.'' Gareth played along. ''But to have eyes for my nephew, a young boy like him is still innocent in various regards.''
''I too have a fitting son.'' Reyes joined in. ''Rayas is only ten, but a year here or there is nothing for a martial artist such as yourself. But please, could you wait for at-least three more years? But it is not plausible, I understand, and will do my best to have ''the talk'' with him sooner than I planned.''
Ahem! Alaric cleared his throat.
''I must apologize, all of my children are a bit too seasoned. But if you are willing to wait for fourteen years then...'' Alaric began.
''I-I...I...hmph....HMPH!!!'' Miun stuttered, groaned and stood up. And soon her figure floated away from the VIP section, accompanied by a roaring laughter.
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'I wonder what Grandpa and elders are laughing about. Must be a joyous occasion.' Ophelia thought and saw a figure walking towards Ophelia and CO's seats.
This figure belonged to a woman who was beautiful beyond belief. Long eyelashes, abundant chest and long and lithe limbs. Her loose azure colored robe and her flustered pink face only enhanced her attractiveness. 'Who is this woman, she was sitting in the VIP stands...'
Miun who had been bullied by her master and the hosts had fled the VIP section, she didn't have any sort of plan where she was going. Only by coincidence she saw few empty seats and decided to take a seat on one of them. 'These are suitably far away...' Miun thought.
Although it was her first instinct to just leave the whole area she knew she couldn't do that. She was bound by duty to be present and rate the youngsters. She couldn't just leave because of being embarrassed. ''Um, hello?'' A voice suddenly came from a seat next to hers.
'She sat right next to me, shouldn't I say something?' Was Ophelia's first thought. So she simply greeted her, trying to make the first contact.
As Miun turned around she could see Ophelia and Hina sitting next to her, along with their servants. 'Well, this is a pleasant surprise.' Miun thought. ''Hello.'' She greeted back and smiled.
''You are the Tertiary Dragon Sect's Envoy? How come you came here?'' Hina asked suddenly with her dull voice.
''Eh?'' Ophelia exclaimed. ''You are the Tertiary Dragon Sect's envoy?'' Ophelia's eyes flashed interest.
Miun nodded, there was no denying her azure robes and the sect symbol on her back. ''Yes, I came to look at the best prospects up close.'' A lie was quickly spun. She obviously wouldn't tell the real reason she rushed from the VIP stands.
''Ah, I am the best prospect!'' A voice suddenly came from a seat which was empty just a second ago.
''Ah, Dina when did you arrive?'' Ophelia asked while Miun turned her head to look at Dina.
''Oh no, I was speaking about Ms. Ophelia and Ms. Hina.'' Miun bluntly denied. If Dina's inner 'me' was visible it would be curled up in a fetal position holding its head.
''Mm...blunt force trauma...'' Hina noted.
''Of course! Offy is going to win the whoooooole thing!'' Dina exclaimed and grinned at Hina. Implying she was going to have a bad time, while visibly ignoring Miun's comment.
''Ms. Dina you have also already reached Stage 3 of Qi Awakening. So I look forward to seeing your progress in the future.'' Miun gave some words of encouragement.
Meanwhile, the announcer had walked on the stage and notified that Julio Drakern has withdrawn from the competition.
''Your winning spree continues!'' Dina grinned mischievously.
''Mm...you've worked hard,'' Hina added.
''You have made it to the Top 16. Congratulations.'' Miun earnestly congratulated.
'I hate you guys...' Ophelia thought and smiled. ''Thank you for your support Ms. Envoy.''
''Ah, I don't believe I introduced myself. How thoughtless of me. Miun Kitara, core disciple of Tertiary Dragon Sect. I am also the current head representative of the disciples of our sect.'' Miun introduced herself.
''Eh? You're a disciple?'' Ophelia gasped. ''Tertiary Dragon Sect's disciples have the authority to decide who gets into Combat Schools or not?''
''Well not exactly,'' Miun admitted. ''We only scout and recommend students. Those who have been given highest recommendations do not have to take part in an entrance examination. But those who don't still have to be examined by the teachers.'' Miun explained.
''Wait, since you a core disciple doesn't that mean you're really strong?'' Ophelia's eyes flashed.
''Well, I am one of the core disciples, so it should be clear that I am strong. Only around 0.1% of all the disciples become core disciples.'' Miun smirked.
''Wait...'' Ophelia said, her brain began to work at quick speed. '0.1% really? So she is a super elite? If there are 100,000 disciples in a sect that would mean only 100 of them would be core disciples? 100 of them would get more resources and better treatment. It could be said that sects are only made to groom that top 0.1%. The other 99.9% would do chores, prove as sparring partners, go to do missions to get rewards for themselves and the sect, so that sect could better groom the 0.1%'
Miun's smirk became even wider when she saw Ophelia's serious expression. ''Haha, don't you worry. With your talent, you will catch up to me soon. And when you become an official disciple of the Tertiary Dragon Sect you will have access to so much.'' Miun reassured.
''But to become a core disciple...only 0.1% can make it. How many disciples did you have at the Tertiary Dragon Sect again?'' Ophelia asked, bit intimidated.
''Hm? Although Tertiary Dragon Sect is only a third tier sect we have a five-star qualification. So we are one of the top third tier sects in all of Kehssa.'' Miun said proudly, only to see Ophelia tilt her head in confusion. ''Wait, you are not insinuating that you haven't been told anything about how sects work? About the [Star System] either?''
''Well I know that sects are big groups that gather individuals with certain beliefs, and if you want to become a great warrior and martial artist you should seek to join one of them. Is that wrong?'' Ophelia asked innocently. 'Well, I did read loads of fiction about how they work but I cannot assume anything.' She thought to herself.
''Well you are not wrong about that, but I guess I can educate you a bit more.'' Miun smiled politely, but her eyes shifted to Hina who stood up. ''Are you not going to listen? This is a good opportunity to you as well?''
''Nn...'' Hina grunted and pointed towards the dueling ground. ''It's my turn.''
''Oh, I guess there is no helping it. I promise to go this over with you as well, alright?'' Miun consoled.
''...Thank you.'' Hina thanked and bowed.
'How rare, she actually thanked someone.' Ophelia thought as Hina stepped into the stage to face her next opponent.
''Alright then, before I answer your question about how many members there are in our sect. I need tell you a bit about the Star System.'' Miun began.
''Listen up! Star System is a method to rank both sects strength, their capability to perform missions and the sects disciples. There are two different [Star Rankings] within the Star System. There is the [Sect Star Ranking] and [Warrior Star Ranking]. I will begin with the Sect Star Ranking.'' Miun continued.
''In the case of third-grade sects there are not much you need to achieve to be granted star ratings. Each [Bronze Star] reflects a certain number of students in the sect. In the case of third-grade sects, it is 10,000 students for each star and 5,000 students for half a star.
However for a sect to gain a [Silver Star] and become a second tier sect they need something more than just numbers. But since we are not speaking about second tier sects I will leave it at that.
Warrior Star Ranking, on the other hand, goes from one-star bronze to five-star gold star ranking, even on small third tier sects. Your star ranking also determines which rewards and resources you will receive from the sect each month.
Warrior Star Ranking is determined by various different manners. For example, the first tier of bronze stars is determined by your contribution to the sect and the missions you have done. Meaning it is relatively easy to raise your personal bronze star ranking. However silver star ranking is harder to raise.
To advance in stars inside the silver star ranking one needs to perform adequately in sparring and competitions. One also need to have a certain level of cultivation. Even if you perform well, if your cultivation is low, you will not advance.
Gold star ranking is the most difficult to achieve. Warrior would need to actually take part in five-star missions and perform well enough to make a positive difference, win in major tournaments inside and outside of the sect. And win at competitions between different sects. Or simply to display superiority in power and high levels of cultivation. Well, that is the gist of it. But remember, Star Ranking, in the end, is just a ranking that decides your rewards and prestige you have in the sect.'' Miun concluded.
''And what does that mean?'' Ophelia immediately asked.
''Well, it means that even if you do get to silver stars or gold stars, it doesn't mean that you are the top disciple and are ranked top. Combat Ranking is completely different, and is a measurement of your actual fighting ability and prowess.'' Miun explained. ''For example, you and Roman.''
''What do you mean?'' Ophelia tilted her head.
''Just that. Both of you are at the sixth stage of Qi Awakening. Your cultivation is the same, but your combat ability is clearly quite different. And this can be easily seen from your first battles. Where as Roman was graceful and elegant in his movements, you were powerful and unrestrained.'' Miun explained.
''Although you two are at the same level, your abilities, knowledge, strategy is on different levels, and it will all play a role in your own combat strength. This is why some geniuses who are few stages below their opponents manage to win. Not with power, but a skill for battle, get it?'' Miun concluded.
''Yeah, I got it.'' Ophelia nodded and thought back to her original question.'' So how many core disciple's do the Tertiary Dragon Sect have? If Tertiary Dragon Sect is a five star, third tier sect, it means you have over 50,000 disciples right? So around fifty core disciples? Where do you rank among them?''
''Fifty? No, no. I said around 0.1% not exactly! We actually have just 23 core disciples. And I am currently third ranked, although that will change when I get back.'' Miun smiled.
''...I see...'' Ophelia never knew how fierce the competition in the sect is, this was a good eye opener for her. 'To maximize my chances of becoming a core disciple I need to work harder!' Ophelia thought with conviction.
''There are even more things that you would need to learn when you attend our sect. For example, there are different studies one can apply to learn. For example, alchemy or blacksmithing. There are even factions dedicated to different arts like array formations or Scripture arts.'' Miun explained.
''I think I am being overwhelmed here,'' Ophelia admitted.
''There is no rush to these things, not for you at least since you are still so young.'' Miun comforted.
'I am older than you! At least mentally, I hope. She can't be even close to thirty...' Ophelia reasoned.
''When I arrive at the Tertiary Dragon Sect I...'' Ophelia began only to be interrupted by bubbling audience. As she looked to the stage Ophelia saw Hina and her opponent bleeding.
''Oh! They are really getting into it!'' Miun exclaimed.
''This one seems to be a bad match for Hina,'' Ophelia remarked.
''Kaia's physique is not only taller, and it seems she has cultivated Hard Leather Body to a high level,'' Dina said, startling Ophelia.
''You were still here!'' Dina has been really quiet through their whole conversation. No doubt absorbing the information Miun had so kindly provided.
''But of course, I wouldn't risk missing see her fight,'' Dina explained while pointing towards Kaia. Ophelia simply shrugged. 'Of course, you wouldn't cheer for a friend.'
In the middle of the stage, Hina's rapidly moving punches hit her opposition time after time. ''Windless Fist!'' Hina proclaimed, her voice louder than usual. Her punches each sped forward and collided into Kaia's body.
However, instead of being staggered, she held on strong. Answering Hina's punches with her own. Kaia's long brown hair wavered back and worth as both exchanged blows. ''Pthui!'' Kaia spat out a glob of blood.
''Persistent! Give up already!'' Taller and older girl groaned as she pushed onward, channeling Qi to her hand. ''Crush!'' Kaia exclaimed.
However, a large attack like that was bound to miss. Hina had the advantage in nearly every single category. But Kaia who was two years older had trained many elementary techniques. Her basic Qi enhanced strikes were as deadly as some actual martial techniques. However, Kaia was at Stage 4 of Qi Awakening, inferior to Hina.
In the end, after an arduous battle, Hina had pummeled Kaia into a condition where she could no longer catch her or dodge her attacks. ''Storm Wheel Sweep!'' Hina spun around and her right leg which was covered in whirling wind, swept under Kaia's legs and knocked her down.
Hina pressed her leg over frustrated Kaia's chest as she was ruled as the winner of the match. ''Hina Drakern wins and moves onto eight round!'' Announcer roused the crowd to cheer Hina, who quickly left the stage and rejoined Ophelia, Dina & Miun.
Miun began to explain things to Hina, and Ophelia listened to the same explanation twice. It only solidified Ophelia's belief that she should work harder. Winning the tournament would be the first tiny step on her long road.
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As the seventh round came to a close, there was surprise announcement from the announcer and referee. Apparently one of the elders of Drakern family wished to speak about something. Ophelia could recognize Gareth as the Pavilion Master in charge of various martial art manuals.
''First of all, congratulations to everyone who have made it this far.'' Gareth began. ''It has become apparent that the talent in this year's Youth Evaluation is higher than usual, and thanks to this it seems that many will get the privilege to enroll to our local Golden-ridge Dragon Martial House.''
Gareth produced a wooden box from his robes and held it for people to see.
''For the sake of this occasion, I have prepared a great reward for all of you,'' Gareth spoke and opened the lid of the wooden box. Eight black pellets were sitting on the box. Each pellet radiated energy.
''This is a Coagulated Wyrm Blood Pellet, I have eight of them right here. And those who become bracket champions get to take one home with them.'' Gareth continued. ''I am sure everyone knows at least a little bit about Wyrms, or more commonly known as Sea Serpent. Although they are not true dragons, their blood still holds amazing benefits towards cultivation. I have no doubts that even a junior who is only at the first stage of Qi Awakening would directly jump at the peak of Qi Awakening after soaking their bodies in this medicine.''
By mentioning the benefit of the medicine Gareth was holding, it was like a cow was thrown into a pool of hungry piranhas. The crowd was getting more and more excited and fighting spirit between all the contestant suddenly took a sudden rise.
'Liar, Coagulated Wyrm Blood Pellet is a reinforcing medicine.' Miun thought and smiled. 'Although it is a great medicine there is no way for anyone to advance that quickly. However, the constitution of their bodies would almost double. Their physical prowess would see massive increases, without affecting their actual cultivation.'
''I will need to go all out next time!'' Ophelia exclaimed. To gain rewards that can escalate her cultivation by such a huge amount, how could she let it slip past her fingers? Hina's eyes also burned with yearning, she would also do her best.
While Ophelia and even Hina were getting pumped up for their next matches, no one saw Dina clench her fists, her fingernails burying themselves into her palms, drawing blood.
''I wish for all contestant here the best of luck.'' Gareth finished and shut the lid of the box, and returned to his VIP stand.
''Let the eighth round of the tournament begin! Contestants Karwin and Farrén, please step up on the stage and prove your mettle!'' Announcer howled as two young men stepped on the stage.
Karwin was still only fourteen years old and had already reached Stage 5 of Qi Awakening. His average height and appearance aside, he wore a black hoodie, ripped jeans and a bandana covering his face, so it was hard to tell what he looked like. His hands were located in the pockets of his jeans and he generally looked like the fight didn't really matter much to him.
Farrén, on the other hand, wore a traditional white silky gown which many practitioners wore. His posture was upright and he held two distinct silver gauntlets on his hands.
Round 8, Match 1: Karwin vs Farrén
''Three...two...one...Begin!'' announcer screeched, and as he did so both boys moved.
The battle between Karwin and Farrén quickly developed into a close combat fight. Farrén's shiny gauntlets cut the air as he tried to connect with Karwin, who was mainly evading and avoiding Farrén's offense.
After thirty-second first engagement, it was Farrén who disengaged first. He was frowning and visibly upset at Karwin who was only evading him.
''Are you a chicken?'' Farrén taunted, only to gain a yawn as a response.
''Yawn...are you done with this little exhibition?'' Karwin yawned.
''Y-you mock me!'' Farrén roared and burst forward. Another exchange began. Karwin once again avoiding Farrén's strikes, but this time Karwin used his hands to help deflect some blows.
''Aargh!'' Farrén howled in frustration. ''You damn coward, can't you do anything other than ru-urgh!'' At that moment Karwin's fist bored into Farrén's stomach.
''You really are simple, aren't you?'' Karwin mocked. ''You keep on attacking me with the most basic, nameless martial art forms and you actually expect me to take you seriously? Not only that, but you have no defense, didn't you see I already took the hands out of my pockets? What do you think these hands are for?'' Karwin mocked and let his hands fly.
''Y-you!'' Farrén stuttered as he was pelted by numerous quick punches. Farrén became desperate and hit his gauntlets together. As he did this he became surrounded by a faint Qi.
Karwin's fists felt the difference immediately. ''A ward? I am not going to judge but...'' Karwin spoke as his speed dramatically increased, and he circled behind Farrén. ''...spending coin to purchase an item to increase defense seems foolish, if I were you I would have spent it on cultivation resources instead.'' Karwin finished as his hand wrapped Farrén into a headlock.
Karwin's higher cultivation base completely suppressed Farrén's gauntlet's protective properties, and after a brief struggle, Farrén was choked unconscious.
''Winner is Karwin Drakern, next match will begin shortly!'' The announcer shouted as Farrén's unconscious body was removed. Karwin was congratulated and immediately rewarded with a small red box containing Spring Vitae Root and Coagulated Wyrm Blood Pellet.
After receiving his prize, Karwin immediately left the tournament area. There was no doubt what he was thinking about.
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''Well...that was easy,'' Ophelia commented as she saw Farrén being carted away.
''Hu hu hu, that is thanks to the difference between cultivation realm and attitude.'' Miun giggled and continued. ''Although Farrén's defense improved thanks to the warding inscription on his gauntlets, it wasn't enough. By cutting off the brain's oxygen supply it doesn't matter how tenacious or strong a fighter is, without oxygen a brain cannot operate and a fighter would be rendered unconscious.''
'If that were the case, wouldn't everyone just learn to wrestle and grapple?' Ophelia thought.
''Please don't joke around, Ms. Envoy,'' Hina spoke. ''When you reach a certain level you will be able to breathe through your skin, so things like grappling become less effective.''
''Hm?'' Miun tilted her head. ''I don't think you fully understood what I was saying,'' Miun smirked, without bothering to explain Hina's misunderstanding. They would figure out what she meant in time, or they wouldn't. ''Maybe one day.''
''So!'' Miun pre-emptively interrupted any possible interruptions. ''Next will be your turn Ms. Ophelia, excited to fight again?''
''Hardly, there is no one who is worth to fight other than Roman and Hina.'' Ophelia shrugged. ''But I am still going to still go all out. I want to study the properties of those medicines.'' Ophelia smirked.
''My, what confidence.'' Miun smiled and placed a hand on her cheek.
''Hina is the strongest of all fifth stage warriors and Roman is the only six stage warrior, other than me. It is difficult to bridge a gap between a stage, even if we are just Qi Awakening realm.'' Ophelia reasoned while getting a glance from Hina before she turned away and mumbled something.
''Anyway, I need to stretch and prepare a little,'' Ophelia said and stood up from her cushioned seat. ''It was great to speak to you Ms. Miun, now please excuse me.''
''Alright, it is important after all,'' Miun replied as Ophelia turned away and left.
''Ms. Envoy?'' Blonde next to her asked.
''Yes, what is it Ms. Hina?''
''Do you believe that Ophelia can win the whole tournament, and how powerful do you think she actually is?'' Hina inquired. Dina also leaned over, it was uncharacteristic of Hina to spy on others as she usually only cared about herself.
''Concerned?'' Miun began to tease, but after she turned and saw how serious Hina's face was she decided to drop it. It seems she truly expects a clear answer. ''If I am going to be perfectly honest...''
Miun began and intentionally paused for an uncomfortable amount of time before finishing.
''...she has no chance.''
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Round 8, Match 2: Ophelia vs Essrin
After ten having a ten minute of downtime, an announcement for Ophelia and another girl named Essrin to take the stage came. Ophelia was wearing her white sporty get-up while Essrin was dressed in a typical red martial art silks.
The first instinct for Essrin was to give up before the fight could have even begun. However, the Wyrm Blood had changed everything. Essrin had a strong affinity for water techniques and Wyrm Blood could be a massive boon to her.
So despite her being tired of multiple days of fighting and slight injuries she still took the stage. On the VIP seats, Alaric watched the unfolding battle with clear interest. How deep did Ophelia's skill go, and could Essrin even provide good enough challenge for Ophelia?
''Essrin is fifteen, not only that she is one of the older people in the tournament, turning sixteen next week. She barely reached the fifth stage before the tournament and is already exhausted. Maybe rousing the spirits of the youngsters were not that good of an idea.'' Alaric shook his head.
''Father, it is better than Ophelia taking my Wyrm Blood for free,'' Gareth spoke against his father.
''We will see, I just don't want to see a child to be needlessly hurt.'' Alaric sighed.
Meanwhile, on the stage, Ophelia and Essrin had come face to face.
''While I understand the temptation I would advise against fighting with me,'' Ophelia said impassively.
''Sorry Lil' Miss, since I came this far I am not about to give in here,'' Essrin said and brought her fists together in front of her.
''Good...'' Ophelia mumbled, stealthily licking her upper lip.
''BEGIN!'' The announcement came, and Ophelia immediately sprang forward. Without using any big techniques, both girls traded multiple blows, blocks, and dodges.
Little by little, both of the fighters began to enhance each of their arms with Qi. However, unlike Ophelia who merely enhanced her striking ability and speed, Essrin applied an elemental enhancement on her hands.
The water that now coated Essrin's arms was unclear and heavy. Each of Ophelia' blows which were blocked by Essrin's technique harder. Suddenly the water on Essrin's right hand became more active and was rippling.
''Rippling Tide Blade!'' Essrin exclaimed as she swung one of her arms. At that moment water on that arm extended into a form of a small sword. If not for Ophelia's quick reflexes she could have been badly hurt by it. Instead of taking the blow full on, she had managed to take few steps back.
She had once again been saved by her higher cultivation base, natural instincts, and knowledge of various stories. It was because of all of those things that had Ophelia never lost a focus on Essrin's arms. However, a small cut was left on her shoulder as a reminder that Essrin's blade was dangerous.
'Of course there would be a blade or a projectile launched from her arm. A passive coating of arms that never turn into either projectile or an extension almost never happens. I was right to be on alert.' Ophelia summed and licked her upper lip again.
''Nice technique.'' Ophelia complimented and took a stance, putting her arms close to the sides of her body. Ophelia stepped forward strongly and soon she was closer to Essrin. However before she reached the striking distance she began to do a weird rocking motion by first lagging one of her legs behind her, supporting her balance with her frontal leg and switching the position of her back legs to either side she wished to rock towards. Thanks to that she completely slipped past Essrin's Rippling Tide Blade.
Getting through the guard, Ophelia launched a vicious blow to Essrin's stomach. Essrin tried to mask her discomfort by trying to hit Ophelia with her blade. However, the weird movement continued and Ophelia's other hand also connected to pit of Essrin's stomach.
After their exchange Ophelia took distance. 'Ginga movement seems to be effective on her.' Ophelia thought while smiling. Ophelia had been a martial arts enthusiast in her previous life, and she had spent a lot of her time sponging up different techniques from various different martial arts. Although many people disliked Capoeira for its flashy movements, not all of them were useless or unnecessary.
'Maybe I should create my own school in time, and teach my own hybrid martial art?' Ophelia smirked and took another stance, however this time it was a lot more conventional. A simple boxing stance of a slugger variation.
''Essrin, while I would love to do this dance for a while longer I still need to pace myself for tomorrow. No hard feelings.'' Ophelia said and concentrated more Qi on her arms. Opening her clenched fists revealed a smocking veil of steam, which rose upwards. Both of Ophelia's hands were gleaming with a pink hue.
''Hmph, using mere Rising Vapor Hands to combat my Rippling Water Blade? And you act that cocky!'' Essrin spat as both of the girls rushed against each other.
Meanwhile, on the VIP seats, Gareth smirked. In mere days Ophelia had managed to become proficient in using two different martial techniques. One of them was the Flayed Steam Palm which was a freshly developed martial technique that Gareth had derived from one of the techniques of his own, Steam King Art.
Alaric noticed the similarity immediately. ''Gareth, you...'' But before he could finish Gareth interrupted him.
''No Father, I didn't impart her with my Steam King Art's Surging Flare Fist. This is an incomplete version of Surging Flare Fist, I affectionally call it Flaying Steam Palm.'' Gareth began.
''Ophelia came to the Martial Art Pavillion for the first time earlier this month, since I rarely see my brother's children it took me a few seconds to recognize her. But she sure looks like her mother.'' Gareth laughed before continuing.
''Since it was her first time at the Martial Pavillion I decided to give her something good. So I took a few minutes to write down an incomplete version of Surging Flare Fist. Because of her low cultivation and her age it is not possible for her to learn the real deal. Maybe after her Qi becomes liquefied, so basically there are no risks, as her body cannot even begin to store steam into it in a first place.'' Gareth reasoned.
''Although she is just at the beginning of her road as a martial artist I cannot understand why you would impact her with a technique like this one. It must consume a huge amount of her Qi to manifest enough steam for her attacks. We don't even know if she has good affinity with Fire and Water elements in the first place. And you just go ahead and blindly give her a Steam technique to practice?'' Alaric grumbled.
''I agree with you Father. Brother, how weak can Flaying Steam Palm possibly be? Even without being complimented by Surging Flare Engine technique it must still be at-least a Peak Uncommon or perhaps even a Low Rare tier technique. Parting strong techniques like there to a newbie is pretty irresponsible. She could have hurt herself or other while practicing it.'' Reyes joined in.
''And here she goes, it seems that it victory for Ms. Ophelia,'' Hui-Lu said and brought the men's attention back to the fighting stage.
On the stage Essrin was looking terrible, her opponent had been too fast and had unpredictable movements. Combined with the sizzling hot steam erupting from her palms it made it hard for Essrin to mount any kind of offense without spending extra Qi to protect her body from her opponent's hot hands. Even the water which coated her hands began to heat up thanks to Ophelia's technique. Essrin understood quickly that the technique her opponent was using was not a mere Common technique called Rising Vapor Hands.
That is why Essrin prepared herself for one last attack. All the water on her left hand transferred to her right hand and formed a sizeable water blade. ''Rippling Tide Blade: Longsword Mode!'' Essrin exclaimed as she showed off her newest attack. Essrin brought her left hand on top of her right wrist and lifted the water blade.
Ophelia could feel Essrin's will to fight and accepted the final confrontation, as her own will to win flared up. She made up her mind to launch a projectile version of her Flaying Steam Palm. Lots of Qi began to accumulate on her hands.
Essrin swung her blade of Qi across the floor in front of her, leaving a gash on the ground to prove that she was serious. She then took few slow steps forward before her steps turned into a jog, then a sprint. Her hands began to trail to her side as they held up her blade, ready for a mighty swing.
Ophelia calmly widened her stance and readied her left hand, visible puffs of steam were erupting from her shaking fist which gathered steam like a pressure cooker and turning bright red.
''Hm?'' At the same time on the VIP stands Gareth had noticed something alarming. ''Father, excuse me because of this. Inner Eye of Observation!'' Gareth chanted as a white circular mark appeared on his forehead.
Gareths own eyes became pure white as he observed both Ophelia and Essrin. Gareth's eyes both worked independently of each other and soon he came to a sudden realization which caused him to gulp.
''Father, it seems I have underestimated my Niece. Ophelia has already mastered the basics of Steam Flaying Palm and her attack will be way too much for Essrin to handle!'' Gareth stated, clearly agitated.
''Wait, you mean that-'' Alaric began but was interrupted.
''Damn, this clash will kill her!'' Reyes stood up.
Alaric quickly made a decision as he stood up. ''The match is over!'' His voice bellowed and echoed on the area, however, what was said landed on deaf ears.
Essrin had closed their distance and was only about ten meters away from Ophelia. 'Just a little bit closer'!
'She is not approaching me, is her attack is not ready yet? If so then this is a chance, Just a little bit further!' Essrin thought on her mind as her steps accelerated.
Due to the excitement of the opponent in front of them, neither combatant had heard that the match had been called.
9...
8...
7...
6...
''HAAAAA!'' Essrin began her warcry, her left hand gripping her right wrist even tighter than before.
5 meters!
''Flaying Steam Palm!'' Ophelia yelled and swung her left fist forward, opening it as she did. A terrifying cloud of hot steam erupted from her small fist. The eruption of steam expanded quickly and became unavoidably wide.
Essrin's eyes dilated in horror, the amount of released Qi, the sudden appearance of a thick cloud of steam and a burning sensation had all hit her at once. She immediately canceled her own offensive move and coated herself with as much Qi as she could muster.
People around the area, including Miun, Hina and Dina watched in horror as Essrin was absorbed into the thick cloud. Miun understood better than most what this kind of attack could do a beginner. However, she had also barely seen additional movement in the arena.
Just as the steam hit and began to scald the skin on Essrin's face, she quickly felt a soothing stream surround her. A bubble of water had encased her and held her gently in the air. Gareth stood in the middle of the mist, between Essrin and Ophelia.
''HA!''
With a sharp yelp, a quick discharge of Qi blew away all of Ophelia's steam and the middle of the stage became revealed. Essrin gently landed on the ground as the sphere made out of water hit the floor and splashed around.
Gareth looked at the referee, then both combatants and came out with a result. ''Ms. Ophelia's offensive attack was too destructive to let the match play out naturally. Ophelia waited and baited for Ms. Essrin to come into a distance where she could do nothing but take a full force of the blow. Because Ms. Essrin didn't figure out her opponents ploy to reel her in and forced emergency measures to be taken to save her, this fight is Ms. Ophelia's victory.''
Essrin who was rubbing the small burn marks on her face looked distraught. She knew that if Gareth didn't step in to save her, she would have been a patient on a medical ward for an extended period of time. Essrin could only nod at Gareth's decision. It was her dumb mistake to not consider a projectile attack.
''W-winner is Ophelia Drakern!'' Announcer finally announced the decision and the combatants left the stage. Essrin went to medical ward to get her burns looked at while Ophelia walked with Gareth till they reached outside of the main area.
''Congratulations Ms. Ophelia, here is your reward for winning the second bracket.'' Gareth produced a box that held three things: Scroll with a Rare technique, Spring Vitae Root & Coagulated Wyrm Blood Pellet.
''Thank you, Pavillion Master!'' Ophelia thanked and bowed, extending her hands to grasp the box. As she did Gareth spoke.
''You have grown magnificently, not even in my wildest dreams I would have expected you to master these techniques so quickly. You may even learn a little bit of this Rare technique, but I suggest that you consume the Spring Vitae Root with haste. No doubt the other tournament winners are going to do so as well.'' Gareth smiled as he let go of the treasures.
''However, do not attempt to directly consume the Coagulated Wyrm Blood Pellet. If you try to consume it without the right knowledge, you will die.'' Gareth finished.
''Thank you for your guidance Pavillion Master, but how should it be consumed. If direct consumption is forbidden?''
''I will tell you the proper way to consume it after the Youth Evaluation concludes. If you become one of the top three there will be many more doors opened and for you.'' Gareth spoke as he began to walk back into the arena, returning to the VIP seats.
Ophelia opened the box she gained and took a quick glance before closing it. 'Wonderful, with these items I will definitely...'
''Congratulations Miss! I knew you could do it.'' Ophelia turned around and saw a short brunette girl looking at her with admiration.
''Thank you Aino, however, I must continue to give you a tiresome task to spy on others the rest of the day. I need to indulge in my rewards.'' Ophelia said apologetically.
''No need to apologize, I am here to be useful for you. I will be there to wake you up tomorrow.'' Aino curtsied and swayed back to the seats to watch more matches.
'Haa, her movements are just too much sometimes.' Ophelia thought while shaking her head slightly, before returning to her courtyard to experiment and learn more about her gains.
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''That was dangerous,'' Hui-Lu commented.
''Truly, how long have you been teaching her Gareth?'' Alaric inquired as he looked at his son with a doubtful look.
Gareth shrugged.
''I haven't been teaching her anything. I gave her the material and she learned it all on her own.'' Gareth smiled. As he did, he could see eyes around him widen, but no one denied what he had said. Gareth was known to be reliable and would not lie about things like taking a disciple.
''For her to be only thirteen, and learn two different types of techniques like Flaying Steam Palm and Illusionary Finger. Just what kind of talent is that?'' Hui-lu mumbled and was deep in thought.
''Potentially a match for Elder Brother's talent,'' Gareth stated.
''Ignis' talent huh? First, he has three heaven defying sons and a daughter, and now his youngest son is also showing great promise and his daughter shows the largest amount of talent in our family's history since him.'' Alaric spoke.
''It will be quite an interesting year,'' Hui-Lu began. ''I cannot wait to see how fast she will develop after she enroll's to my school.''
A feverish discussion that began would continue on, and the attention of the elders would rarely shift back into the fighting stage. Even when the event was over for the day, elders continued their heated discussion to the middle of the night.