The instant Li Hao stepped forward instead of retreating, a visible ripple passed through the audience, because no one had expected him to meet Zhao Kun's attack head-on, especially considering the gap in their cultivation realms, yet Li Hao's expression remained calm as his Light Sword flashed into existence, its radiant glow cutting through the pressure like a blade of pure clarity.
Zhao Kun's strike descended like a falling mountain, his Xuanwu aura manifesting faintly behind him, forming the shadow of an ancient turtle that carried immense defensive and offensive weight, and when their attacks collided, a deafening explosion echoed throughout the arena, sending a shockwave that forced nearby disciples to shield themselves.
Yet to everyone's surprise, Li Hao did not retreat.
Instead, he held his ground.
His Ice Heavenly Sword phantom appeared behind him, its chilling presence stabilizing his body as frost spread beneath his feet, anchoring him against the overwhelming force, and although his arm trembled slightly under the pressure, his eyes remained unwavering.
Zhao Kun's gaze sharpened.
"So you can endure," he muttered.
Li Hao said nothing.
But his aura began to rise.
The real battle had just begun.