One week remained before Liu Kang's battle with Chu Wushuang.The news had already spread throughout the Azure Cloud Sect, and even disciples who rarely left their residences were discussing the upcoming fight. Some believed Liu Kang was being reckless by challenging someone whose cultivation was far above his own. Others remembered what he had accomplished during the Soaring Dragon Assembly and wondered whether he might surprise everyone again.However, the person at the center of these discussions was paying little attention to them.Inside his courtyard, Liu Kang stood beneath the afternoon sunlight with his right hand extended before him.Dark-violet lightning flickered around his fingers, occasionally accompanied by thin strands of translucent white electricity. A faint sword aura hovered around his hand, sharp enough to make the surrounding air tremble.He slowly moved his fingers.The lightning followed, forming a thin blade that extended several inches beyond his fingertips.F

She regarded him in silence.The wind moved through the courtyard, stirring the leaves above them."Less than you think."Liu Kang did not believe her.However, he could tell from her expression that she would not reveal anything more.After a brief pause, she continued."There is one final thing you need to know about Chu Wushuang."Liu Kang straightened."What is it?""Do not assume that because he was injured during your previous encounter, he will approach the next battle the same way."Lin Xue's crimson eyes became unusually serious."He has had time to study your techniques. He knows about your Lightning Sword Resonance, your Heaven-Rank sword skill, and your willingness to fight someone whose cultivation is far above your own."She took a step toward the entrance."Next time, he will be prepared."Liu Kang watched her carefully."Then I will have to be prepared as well.""That is why you have one week."Lin Xue stopped at the entrance and glanced over her shoulder."Spend it im

Liu Kang smiled."Because worrying about tomorrow won't make me stronger today."Su Lingxi opened her mouth to respond, but she eventually closed it.She had to admit that he had a point.After a moment, her expression softened."Well, whatever happens tomorrow, don't forget that this is Divine Lightning Peak. We are all waiting to see what you can accomplish."Liu Kang looked at her before glancing toward the buildings and training grounds beyond the courtyard.The peak had undergone considerable changes over the past month. Its structures were being repaired, its resources were being distributed more efficiently, and new disciples had begun arriving because of its growing reputation.Yet there was still much work to be done.He had no intention of allowing one battle to distract him from the responsibilities he had already taken upon himself."I won't forget," he replied.Su Lingxi nodded before turning to leave.Then she suddenly stopped."Oh, and one more thing."Liu Kang looked a

The argument continued until another group passed by, bringing news that the Imperial Academy's disciples had already arrived.The flying beast descended toward an open area outside the busiest streets.As its feet touched the ground, nearby cultivators turned to look. Several recognized the Azure Cloud Sect's robes, and whispers began spreading almost immediately."Look! That's the Azure Cloud Sect!""Is Liu Kang with them?""He's here!"Liu Kang rose to his feet.He had expected attention, but the number of people watching them made it clear that the crowd was already eager for the battle to begin.Lin Xue stepped down first. The moment she appeared, several cultivators who had been talking loudly lowered their voices. A few recognized her and quickly moved aside, making room for the group.No one attempted to approach her.Even among the younger generation, Lin Xue's name carried a reputation that discouraged careless behavior. People might argue over whether Liu Kang could defeat

A cry of surprise rang out from the spectators.Before anyone could locate Chu Wushuang, a powerful gust of wind swept across Liu Kang's left side.Liu Kang reacted instinctively, turning his body and raising his forearm.BANG!A palm struck his guard.The force sent him sliding several meters across the arena, but before he could come to a complete stop, Chu Wushuang appeared above him and brought his leg down in a powerful kick.Liu Kang crossed his arms to block it.BOOM!The impact shook the stone platform.Liu Kang's feet sank slightly into the cracked surface, and the force traveled through his arms into his body. He gritted his teeth, then twisted his waist and pushed upward, forcing Chu Wushuang to withdraw before following up with another attack.Their figures separated and clashed again almost immediately.One moved with overwhelming force and precise control, while the other relied on sharp instincts, extraordinary physical strength, and movements that were difficult to pre