Weeks passed, and Anthony's reputation grew. He was no longer mocked. Instead, he was treated with awe and fear. However, not everyone was happy. Some felt that his rise was too easy, that he hadn't truly earned his place through combat.
During the weekly sparring session, a student named Kael challenged him. Kael had awakened the soul of a "Rock Giant." His skin was hard as stone, and his strength was immense.
"Anthony!" Kael shouted across the training field. "Everyone says you are a genius! But brains don't win fights! Let's see if you can take a hit!"
Kael didn't wait for permission. He stomped his foot, and the ground cracked. He charged forward, his fist enlarging and hardening with earth attribute Qi. "Rock Breaker Fist!"
The wind howled. It was a lethal attack. If it hit, a normal person would be turned into pulp.
"Be careful!" someone shouted.
Anthony stood still. He didn't raise his guard. His power is heavy but slow, Aetherion analyzed instantly. The center of gravity is low. The weakness is the moment before impact when the muscles are fully tensed—they become rigid and inflexible.
Just as the fist was inches from his face, Anthony took a single step to the side. It was a tiny movement, but perfectly timed.
Bang!
The fist smashed into the ground where Anthony stood, creating a crater. But Anthony was already behind Kael.
"Too slow," Anthony whispered.
He tapped Kael lightly on the back. But the tap wasn't light. Anthony channeled a tiny thread of mana, vibrating at high frequency.
Crack.
The stone armor on Kael's back shattered instantly. Kael flew forward, spitting out blood, completely defeated in one move.
The entire training ground went silent. Anthony didn't even look winded. He turned around and walked away. "Match over."