The silence that took over the hall was dense, almost palpable.
Tao and the disciple of the Scarlet Rock Sect faced each other at the center of the arena, separated by only a few meters. There were no weapons. Neither of them seemed bothered by that.
"Begin whenever you wish." Tao said, relaxed, assuming a simple stance, his feet firm on the ground, his body slightly inclined.
The disciple did not respond.
His Qi exploded all at once.
He charged like a falling rock, the ground beneath his feet creaking lightly. His punch came straight on, heavy, loaded with raw energy. There was no refined technique in that strike, only condensed force.
Tao took half a step to the side and blocked with his forearm.
The impact echoed through the hall.
"Strong." Someone near the arena murmured.
Tao felt the shock climb up his arm, but he did not retreat. He twisted his hips and responded with a short strike to the opponent's abdomen, releasing Qi at the instant of contact.
