The Rise of an Evil Sect Leader

Morning sunlight poured over the Inner Sect grounds, casting long shadows that stretched across stone courtyards. Today, however, Ye Tian's focus wasn't on whispers, conflicts, or any petty drama stirring among the disciples. He stood atop a distant ridge overlooking the training halls, his golden eyes fixed on the Grand Combat Arena—a stage reserved for disciples seeking true growth.

The sect's custom dictated that merit points—a currency for resources, weapons, and cultivation techniques—could be earned not just through missions, but through victories in formal challenges.

"Power comes from strength, and strength requires resources," Ye Tian muttered to himself.

He couldn't remain in the shadows forever. While others schemed for scraps, Ye Tian planned to claim what he deserved—openly. The path to power wouldn't be trod in secret alone.

The Grand Arena

The arena buzzed with activity, its atmosphere charged with competitive energy. Disciples sparred in pairs, cheered on by curious onlookers hoping to see a clash worth their time.

Standing near the challenge board, Ye Tian scanned the names. These lists recorded disciples eligible for combat challenges—duels sanctioned by the sect to test strength and settle disputes.

"Who to pick…" Ye Tian murmured, tapping his finger against the wooden board.

He wasn't looking for easy prey. That would draw ridicule. He needed someone strong enough to showcase his rise, but arrogant enough to fall into his plans.

At the far end of the courtyard, his eyes landed on Feng Hai.

A mid-ranking disciple, Feng Hai was well-known for his brute strength and flashy victories. He'd grown complacent, thriving on his reputation but rarely honing his skills.

Perfect.

Ye Tian strode forward, his voice cutting through the noise. "Feng Hai."

The burly disciple, draped in rich crimson robes, turned with a cocky grin. "Who calls for me?"

"Ye Tian. I challenge you to a duel—formal combat, with merit points on the line."

A hush fell over the arena as disciples turned to watch.

Feng Hai stared for a moment, then burst out laughing. "You? You're barely worth a sparring match, let alone a formal duel."

Ye Tian's expression didn't shift. "Refuse, and everyone here will know you're all bark and no bite."

Feng Hai's smile stiffened. He could feel dozens of eyes on him—waiting, judging. "Fine," he spat. "If you're so eager to lose, I'll oblige."

The Challenge

The arena floor was cleared, and two jade-colored stones—symbols of life—were placed at the center of the stage. Rules were simple: a disciple forfeited when their jade token shattered or if they surrendered.

Feng Hai stepped forward with a confident swagger, his spiritual energy crackling around him like waves of heat. He drew a massive iron spear, its head gleaming sharply. "I'll give you one chance, Ye Tian. Drop out now, and I won't break your bones."

Ye Tian unsheathed his plain, steel sword. Its blade looked unremarkable, but in his hands, it felt alive—an extension of his will. "Let's see who breaks first."

The Duel

The bell rang, signaling the start of the match. Feng Hai charged immediately, the ground trembling under his steps. He swung his iron spear with terrifying strength, aiming to overwhelm Ye Tian in a single blow.

The crowd roared as the attack tore through the air.

Ye Tian didn't move—at least not immediately. In the split second before the spear struck, he sidestepped effortlessly, letting the weapon crash harmlessly into the ground. Dust and rubble exploded outward.

"What?!" Feng Hai snarled, yanking his spear free.

Ye Tian's calm voice cut through the chaos. "You're wasting energy."

Feng Hai roared and attacked again—this time faster, his spear dancing through rapid arcs. But every strike missed. Ye Tian glided around him, precise and untouchable.

"Stop running!" Feng Hai shouted, frustration etched across his face.

Ye Tian's eyes flashed coldly. "You're too slow to hit me."

The crowd fell silent as they began to notice. Feng Hai was tiring. His once-powerful swings had lost their sharpness, and beads of sweat trickled down his face.

Finally, Ye Tian struck.

With a blur of movement, he closed the distance, parrying Feng Hai's spear aside with his sword and slamming the hilt into Feng Hai's chest. The force sent the larger disciple staggering back, coughing violently.

"You…" Feng Hai gasped, eyes wide.

Ye Tian advanced, his expression calm yet terrifying. "Strength without control is weakness. Reputation without skill is fraud."

He raised his sword, its edge shimmering faintly with energy. Feng Hai barely had time to react before Ye Tian's blade descended—not at his neck, but at the jade token tied to his waist.

Crack!

The sound of shattering jade echoed through the arena.

Silence fell.

Feng Hai collapsed to his knees, stunned. The duel was over.

A New Challenger

Ye Tian turned his back on Feng Hai and walked toward the exit without so much as a glance at the crowd.

"That was…" one disciple whispered.

"Incredible," another finished.

Whispers filled the arena, and Ye Tian's name spread like wildfire. Those who had dismissed him now watched with wariness. Those who despised him grew uneasy.

Strength spoke louder than words, and Ye Tian had made himself heard.

As he left, a sect steward stopped him, offering a small pouch of merit tokens. "Your reward for victory. Well fought."

Ye Tian accepted it with a slight nod. These tokens were his first step—an investment in himself and his rise through the ranks.

There's still much to do, he thought. But for once, he didn't voice it aloud.

Actions spoke louder than thoughts ever could.