Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#6
Chapter 6 Rules for Part-time Students
AI Model: gemini-2.5-flash
After successfully registering, Chu Xinghe struggled a bit, carrying his bulging luggage along the academy's winding stone paths.
Notting Academy was located in this remote border town and rarely recruited students with outstanding talent, as true geniuses mostly came from prominent backgrounds, so why would they stoop to come to such a place?
Turning past a low wall covered in ivy, the "Seventh Dorm" for work-study students came into view.
Chu Xinghe stopped, placed his luggage on the ground, and wiped his sweat.
"Carrying so much stuff, registering was really tiring…"
Chu Xinghe mumbled softly, first shifting his bedding bundle upwards, then using his shoulder to push open the peeling dorm door.
A burst of noise rushed out; the spacious room was densely packed with forty to fifty iron bunk beds, yet only eleven of them had bedding.
Seven or eight shabbily dressed youths were sitting around the bed frames, laughing and chatting, the iron beds groaning under their movements.
When Chu Xinghe squeezed into the room, carrying his large and small bundles, all laughter ceased abruptly, and everyone's gaze shot towards him.
"These living conditions…"
Chu Xinghe's eyes twitched slightly; the scene before him reminded him of the collective dormitories in those exploitative factories from his previous life.
The iron bunk beds were rusty, and most of the beds only had thin straw mats.
But then he thought, the academy wasn't a charity; he was already exempt from tuition, what more could he ask for?
Chu Xinghe surveyed the dorm, a friendly smile appearing on his face: "Hello everyone, I'm the new work-study student, Chu Xinghe."
"Another newcomer!" A boy with a small braid jumped off his bed, excitedly circling Chu Xinghe.
As soon as he finished speaking, a burly young man with a broad back and strong shoulders stood up between the beds.
He crossed his arms, his bronze-colored muscles bulging under his thin clothes, and grinned, revealing a mouthful of white teeth: "My name is Wang Sheng, my Spirit is War Tiger, and I'm the boss of the Seventh Dorm. By the rules, the newcomer has to spar with me, and if you lose, you acknowledge me as your boss."
"Brother Wang, isn't your War TigerSpirit a bit too much of a bully?" a freckle-faced youth nearby teased, "Last time, you scared the newcomer into surrendering directly."
"Exactly, exactly." The braided boy chimed in, making an exaggerated frightened expression, "Brother Wang, go easy, don't scare the newcomer away."
Chu Xinghe frowned inwardly; his Rolling Ball Beast Spirit currently had no combat power, and this kind of match was meaningless. Just as he was about to politely decline, a light screen suddenly flashed before his eyes:
[Digital Evolution System Notification: Combat can earn Digital Energy, which can be converted into spirit power. It is recommended that the host actively participate in combat.]
"System, oh System, you're trying to kill me…" Chu Xinghe smiled bitterly in his heart, looking at the aggressive Wang Sheng before him, but still shook his head.
"Brother Wang is joking." He cupped his hands and smiled, "My spirit power is only at thethird level; how dare I show my inadequacy in front of you? I acknowledge you as the boss."
Wang Sheng's serious expression immediately relaxed upon hearing this.
He strode forward and clapped Chu Xinghe's shoulder forcefully: "Good brother! From now on, in Notting Academy, I'll look out for you!"
With that, he turned and shouted to the other children: "Did you all hear that? From now on, Chu Xinghe is my brother!"
"Got it, Boss!" The children replied in unison.
"Thank you, Brother Wang!" Chu Xinghe seized the opportunity to flatter him, appraising Wang Sheng's sturdy build, "With your physique and the War TigerSpirit, you're sure to become a formidable Battle Soul Master in the future!"
"Oh, Brother Wang is blushing!" The braided boy suddenly pointed at Wang Sheng and yelled.
"Go away, go away!" Wang Sheng's ears were red, and he feigned a punch, causing everyone to burst into laughter. He awkwardly rubbed the back of his head: "Hehe, I'll take that as a good omen…"
Just then, he noticed the bulging bedding and folded school uniform in Chu Xinghe's arms, and quickly extended his rough hand: "You've traveled so far, you must be tired, right? Come, I'll help you carry it."
"How can I impose…"
"Don't be so polite!" Wang Sheng took the bedding without question, "See which bunk you like? We brothers will help you set it up!"
"The one by the window is good," the freckled youth suggested, "You can be woken by the sun in the morning, it's warm."
"Then I'll trouble you all," Chu Xinghe said gratefully.
"It's nothing!" Wang Sheng waved his hand magnanimously, "Little Six, go fetch a basin of water for Brother Xinghe! Ah Ming, help make the bed!"
In a short while, with the help of the Seventh Dorm boys, the bed by the window was neatly made.
Just then, footsteps sounded from outside the open dorm door.
"Another newcomer?"
The boys gathered around Chu Xinghe's bed all turned their heads to look.
Wang Sheng reacted the fastest, taking a quick step to block in front of everyone, his muscles tensed like a tiger poised to strike.
The Seventh Dorm hadn't had any new work-study students for three whole years, so how could two arrive consecutively this year?
Wang Sheng's heart pounded, fearing that some noble children had come to cause trouble again.
As the boss, he had to be the first to step forward, especially since he had just taken in Chu Xinghe, this sensible new brother, and he needed to protect everyone.
Before he could reach the doorway, a slender figure had already appeared in the shadows of the corridor.
Wang Sheng narrowed his eyes, clearly seeing the person: faded coarse cloth clothes, mud-stained cloth shoes, and that still-childish face.
"A new work-study student?" Wang Sheng's tensed shoulders visibly relaxed a bit, but his tone still carried a hint of wariness.
The youth smiled slightly and replied: "Hello, I'm a work-study student from Saint Spirit Village."
Wang Sheng straightened his back and patted his muscular chest: "My name is Wang Sheng, my Spirit is War Tiger, and I will become a powerful Battle Soul Master in the future."
He paused, then added: "I'm also the boss of the Seventh Dorm."
He sized up this newcomer, who looked a size smaller than himself, and habitually began to question him: "Kid, what's your name? What's your Spirit?"
Remembering Chu Xinghe's frankness earlier, he pressed on: "What's your innate spirit power?"
Tang San's brow furrowed almost imperceptibly.
This youth who called himself the boss had spirit power fluctuations of only around eight or nine levels, yet he spoke with such a condescending tone.
But he still answered calmly: "My name is Tang San, my Spirit is Blue Silver Grass, and my innate spirit power is ten."
"Innate spirit power of ten?!"
Wang Sheng's pupils suddenly contracted, the surprise on his face flashing by, then turning into solemnity.
He took a deep breath and said seriously: "Tang San, innate full spirit power… your spirit power is already above mine. But according to the rules of the Seventh Dorm, we must have a fight to decide who is more qualified to be the boss."
A trace of impatience flashed in Tang San's eyes; sure enough, it was a childish mindset, hearing about innate full spirit power and immediately eager to compete, completely disregarding the strength disparity…
He shook his head indifferently: "Sorry, I came to the academy to study; I'm not interested in fighting. Please move aside."
Seeing Tang San about to leave, Wang Sheng took a quick step to block him, his tone sincere yet firm: "Tang San, if you don't want to be the boss, then you must obey my rules."
"Heh…" A cold glint flashed in Tang San's eyes, and he lifted his foot, about to walk around him.
In a moment of urgency, Wang Sheng reached out to grab Tang San's shoulder; he had to explain clearly: the work-study students were constantly bullied at the academy and desperately needed a true strong person to lead them. This youth with innate full spirit power might just be the hope they were waiting for!
"Presumptuous!"
Just as Wang Sheng reached out, Tang San's slender body twisted flexibly like a swimming fish, his right hand precisely grasping Wang Sheng's wrist pressure point, and his left hand smoothly supporting his elbow joint with a light touch.
"Eh?"
Wang Sheng was startled to find his arm suddenly losing strength, and before he could react, Tang San had already used Wang Sheng's forward momentum for a clever four ounces to deflect a thousand pounds.
Wang Sheng only felt his center of gravity shift, and his sturdy body stumbled forward a few steps involuntarily.
"Bang!"
Wang Sheng crashed squarely into the door panel, making the wooden door creak.
The dorm instantly fell silent.
Everyone stared dumbfounded at this scene; the slender Tang San had effortlessly made the burly Wang Sheng suffer a loss.
Wang Sheng barely managed to prop himself up, his eyes full of shock; this seemingly frail youth had attacked with such ferocity!
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#7
Chapter 7 Tang San and Xiao Wu's Flirtation
AI Model: gemini-2.5-flash
After a brief silence, everyone in Dorm 7 finally recovered from their shock.
"Boss, are you alright?"
Several teenagers rushed forward, their eyes filled with worry, while their gazes towards Tang San were tinged with hostility.
Some of them clenched their fists, ready to charge.
Tang San's eyes flickered, and he timely showed a hint of apology on his face, but the Hidden Weapons hidden in his sleeve were quietly cocked, his fingertips lightly pressing the trigger, ready to deal with a possible siege at any moment.
"Everyone, don't be rash!"
Wang Sheng struggled to his feet, raising a hand to stop his companions, then turned to Tang San, his tone complex: "Tang San... was that a Spirit Ability just now?"
"Just some self-created combat techniques, nothing worth mentioning."
Tang San smiled slightly, his tone humble, but a hint of self-satisfaction flashed in his eyes.
He was already accustomed to others' surprise at his methods, and at this moment, he deliberately reined in his sharpness, putting on an approachable demeanor.
Wang Sheng gave a wry smile, then suddenly pulled up his sleeve, revealing alarming bruises on his arm, old and new scars intertwined, clearly indicating long-term bullying.
"This is?" Tang San frowned slightly, feigning surprise.
He knew very well that his previous strength could not have caused so many injuries, but a perfectly timed hint of concern still appeared on his face.
"I was ambushed by people from Dorm 3 yesterday."
Wang Sheng's voice was low, carrying suppressed anger, "We work-study students have always been the targets of bullying in this academy."
He looked around at everyone in Dorm 7, and dissatisfaction was written on every face.
"So, we must unite."
Wang Sheng took a deep breath, then suddenly looked at Tang San solemnly: "You are stronger than me, Dorm 7 needs a boss like you."
Tang San's expression shifted slightly, a hint of calculation flashing in his eyes.
Brotherhood?
Of course, he valued it, especially in front of everyone. An image of being loyal and righteous was beneficial to him in every way.
He nodded gently, his tone gentle but with an underlying sense of control: "Since everyone trusts me, I naturally won't sit by and watch my classmates be humiliated."
What a righteous promise.
In the corner, Chu Xinghe watched coldly, a sneer forming in his heart, "He's putting on quite a show."
In the early stages, Tang San had not fully revealed his true nature, doing a flawless job with his outward appearance, but how could the hypocrisy in his bones escape his eyes?
Just then, a tender childish voice came from outside the door: "Is this Dorm 7?"
Everyone looked over, only to see a little girl, about six years old, standing at the door, her height just reaching the doorknob.
She had a playful scorpion braid, and the ends of her hair swayed gently as she peeked around.
"This is Xiao Wu?" Chu Xinghe's pupils constricted slightly.
He covertly scanned his surroundings, fearing that Tang Hao might be lurking nearby.
With the cultivation of a Titled Douluo, it should not be difficult to discern the true form of a 100,000-year Spirit Beast.
It must be said that the transformed Soft Bones Rabbit was indeed very deceptive.
On her delicate, jade-like face, there was a pair of watery pink eyes, paired with an innocent expression, anyone who saw her would feel pity and affection.
But what flashed in Chu Xinghe's eyes was a greedy glint; his mind was filled with the coveted 100,000-year spirit ring and Spirit Bone.
"Teleportation plus Paragon Golden Body..." Chu Xinghe mused to himself, "Such a heaven-defying Spirit Bone Ability, yet it comes from a weak Spirit Beast like the Soft Bones Rabbit?"
He licked his lips, as if he could already see himself wreaking havoc after fusing with the Spirit Bone.
However, reason quickly overcame impulse. At present, let alone hunting a 100,000-year Spirit Beast, he probably couldn't even defeat Xiao Wu's transformed strength.
Not to mention that Clear Sky Douluo, who doted on his child, might be hidden in the dark...
"Heh, Tang San's taste is quite unique."
Chu Xinghe sneered inwardly, "He ignores good people and instead gets infatuated with a rabbit."
Thinking of all the troubles caused by this 'human-beast romance' in the original work, he couldn't help but shake his head.
As expected, the Continent of Romance produced romance-brained individuals; even a transmigrator couldn't save them.
Seeing Xiao Wu skip into the dormitory, Chu Xinghe quietly retreated two steps, perfectly shielding everyone in front of him.
Now was not the time to act; let Tang San be the protector for a while.
Tang San looked at the petite figure at the door, puzzled: "The academy allows mixed-gender dorms?"
Wang Sheng, standing next to him, immediately leaned over to explain: "Boss, you're new here and don't know the rules. Notting Academy's dormitories are divided into three types."
He counted on his fingers, "Noble students live in Dorms 1 and 2, regular students live in Dorms 3 to 6, and we work-study students all live in Dorm 7. Junior Spirit Master academies are all mixed-gender; I heard they only separate once you reach a intermediate Spirit Master academy."
"I see..." Tang San nodded thoughtfully.
Wang Sheng suddenly lowered his voice: "It's strange, though. Last year, not a single work-study student was recruited, but this year, three came at once."
He nudged Tang San with his elbow, "Boss, according to the rules..."
At this moment, Xiao Wu, standing at the door, lightly knocked on the doorframe, a bright smile on her face: "Excuse me, my name is Xiao Wu, the Wu from dancing."
She stepped into Dorm 7, her scorpion braid swaying gently with her movements, "Can you not block me?"
Wang Sheng quickly pushed Tang San, whispering: "Boss, hurry and follow the rules!"
Tang San took a deep breath, stepped forward, and formally introduced himself: "Hello, my name is Tang San, my Spirit is Blue Silver Grass, and I am a tenth-level Spirit Scholar. I am currently the head of Dorm 7."
He paused, then continued: "According to the tradition of Dorm 7, new students need to demonstrate their strength, so..."
Xiao Wu's bright smile gradually faded. Her keen gaze swept over the bruises on Wang Sheng's arm, then returned to Tang San's face: "So... you want to spar with me?"
"You could say that..." Tang San nodded somewhat awkwardly.
Xiao Wu snorted lightly, casually tossing the uniform in her arms onto the nearest bed with a swift motion: "You should have said so earlier."
She neatly flung her braid behind her, her eyes sharpening, "Xiao Wu, SpiritSoft Bones Rabbit, tenth-level Spirit Scholar. Please guide me!"
In a flash, Xiao Wu made her move!
Her right leg lashed out like a whip, striking directly at Tang San's chin with a sharp whoosh.
Her petite figure traced a graceful arc in the air, yet it concealed a deadly intent.
"This little loli is also a tenth-level Spirit Scholar?" Tang San's heart jolted.
In that fleeting moment of distraction, Xiao Wu's attack was already upon him.
In a rush, he could only dodge sideways, his left hand forming a claw to grab Xiao Wu's ankle, while his right shoulder naturally thrust forward with an Iron Mountain Lean.
"This girl is so small, hitting her too hard might not be appropriate..." Tang San's mind raced, and the force in his hands immediately lessened a bit.
He secretly calculated: when Xiao Wu lost her balance, he could then perform a heroic rescue...
However—
"Heh!"
A sharp glint flashed in Xiao Wu's pink eyes; she actually used the force of Tang San's lean to leap into the air!
Her slender body traced an incredible arc in mid-air, and her long legs coiled around Tang San's neck like a nimble snake.
"What?!" Tang San only felt a tightening around his neck, and his entire body was lifted by a tremendous force.
"Take that!"
Xiao Wu twisted her waist, and Tang San was instantly flung out like a kite with a broken string.
With a muffled thud, he landed squarely on the floor three meters away.
Xiao Wu, however, landed lightly, not even a single strand of her hair out of place.
Dorm 7 was silent.
Wang Sheng's mouth was wide enough to fit an egg: "B-Boss he..."
The other work-study students were even more dumbfounded. They thought Tang San was already impressive, but they didn't expect there to be an even stronger expert. The new Xiao Wu was actually even more ferocious than Tang San.
Chu Xinghe watched the two of them spar, feeling helpless. His meager combat power was no different from that of a small fry in front of Tang San and Xiao Wu.
He had to find a way to increase his spirit power quickly. He was truly fed up with only being able to watch battles.
Tang San stood up, looking a bit disheveled, the lingering warm sensation around his neck making his ears burn.
He subconsciously touched his neck; the unique smoothness of Xiao Wu's skin seemed to still linger there, making him reluctant to let go.
"Want to continue?" Xiao Wu put her hands on her hips, tilting her head with a victorious smile.
"I surrender."
Tang San raised his hands in a wry smile, "From now on, you'll be the boss of Dorm 7."
Xiao Wu proudly lifted her chin, then suddenly wrinkled her nose: "Wait!"
She held up a slender finger, "Since I'm the boss, the first rule is, don't call me boss! You have to call me Sister Xiao Wu!"
"Sister Xiao Wu!" Everyone in Dorm 7 shouted in unison, their voices tinged with awe.
Chu Xinghe stood at the back of the crowd, inwardly complaining wildly: What's a 100,000-year Spirit Beast doing pretending to be young... At her age, she's more than old enough to be Tang San's great-grandmother.
"Speaking of which, it's really interesting."
Tang San suddenly laughed, "Your Spirit just happens to counter mine. Isn't my Blue Silver Grass just food for a Soft Bones Rabbit?"
Xiao Wu giggled, a hint of cunning flashing in her pink eyes: "I didn't think you'd be quite interesting. Since my Spirit counters yours, you'll have to be obedient, or else..."
She made a biting motion, "I'll eat you like a carrot!"
Tang San's face instantly turned as red as a cooked shrimp, and he stammered: "I-I'll be obedient..."
Chu Xinghe watched this scene, dumbfounded. Thankfully, Tang San hadn't lost to her in a fight, otherwise, he would have been afraid Tang San would directly call Xiao Wu 'Mom'.
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#8
Chapter 8 Two People Pretending to be Young
AI Model: gemini-2.5-flash
"Is the new work-study student, Tang San, here?"
A teacher in his thirties walked in from outside Dormitory Seven. His light green hair was somewhat distinctive, and he carried a brand new quilt.
Tang San immediately stood out: "I am Tang San."
The teacher nodded: "My name is Mo Hen, you can call me Teacher Mo. Tang San, this was specially prepared for you by Grandmaster."
Taking the quilt, the soft touch made Tang San slightly pause. He hadn't expected Grandmaster to be so considerate.
"Thank you, Teacher Mo," he whispered, but in his heart, he couldn't help but compare. His own father never cared about such things, only getting drunk all day.
Mo Hen scanned the room, his gaze falling on Wang Sheng: "The opening ceremony is tomorrow, and classes officially begin the day after tomorrow. First-year students are in Classroom One. Wang Sheng, you are the oldest here, explain the rules to them."
After Mo Hen's footsteps faded, Wang Sheng cleared his throat: "Every morning, there are two classes, alternating between cultural lessons and Spirit theory. In the afternoon, we clean a part of the campus to earn money for food. The rest of the time is free."
Wang Sheng paused, then continued: "Spirit Scholars like me, at rank nine, can hunt for a spirit ring under a teacher's guidance after breaking through to rank ten, officially becoming a Spirit Master. This is the academy's graduation standard."
Xiao Wu suddenly clutched the corner of her clothes, asking wistfully: "Must… we hunt Spirit Beasts?"
Chu Xinghe, standing nearby, shivered at the question.
This question was so naive it was unsettling. How could a dignified 100,000-year Spirit Beast who had taken human form ask such a childish question?
Could it be that after transforming into a human, her intellect had regressed to the level of a six-year-old child?
He shook his head inwardly, his gaze lingering on Xiao Wu's trembling fingertips for a moment. A strange sense of incongruity spread in his heart.
Wang Sheng heard Xiao Wu's question and nodded without hesitation: "This is an iron rule of Spirit Master cultivation. Without a spirit ring, you can never break through the bottleneck."
A flicker of surprise flashed in Xiao Wu's eyes, then she nonchalantly turned to Tang San: "Tang San, let's discuss something, okay?"
"What is it?" Tang San looked up, puzzled.
Xiao Wu smiled slyly, pointing at his quilt: "Your quilt is big enough. How about we push our beds together and share it?"
"This…" Tang San was instantly speechless. As someone who had lived two lives, he found it difficult to accept such a suggestion. "Males and females should not touch each other. How about I just give you my quilt?"
He looked around, his gaze falling on Chu Xinghe's neat, spacious quilt: "Xinghe, how about we squeeze together?"
Chu Xinghe, who was watching the show, nearly bit his tongue, cursing inwardly: What is this Tang San pretending to be a gentleman for? And I'm the one who ends up unlucky? I wasn't from Chengdu in my last life!
Fortunately, the rogue rabbit Xiao Wu spoke up in time: "What are you pretending to be proper for! I don't even mind, what are you afraid of?"
She put her hands on her hips and approached Tang San, "Are you afraid I'll eat you?"
Chu Xinghe secretly gave a thumbs-up: As expected of a 100,000-year rogue rabbit, this move is solid!
"But…" Tang San was still hesitant. In front of so many people, he found it hard to agree to such a request.
"But what but!" Xiao Wu stomped her foot impatiently. "Where did all the strength you used to fight me just now go? Hurry up and move the bed!"
Tang San's mind suddenly flashed with the delicate skin he had touched during their earlier spar. As if possessed, he pushed his bed over.
Xiao Wu neatly took the quilt and spread it out, then placed her own bundle at the seam of the beds: "This is the dividing line. Put your bundle over here too. If you cross the line, I won't be polite."
"Understood!" Tang San hurriedly placed his own bundle over, afraid of displeasing Xiao Wu.
Chu Xinghe observed this scene with cold eyes, his mouth twitching unconsciously.
These two acted so convincingly. One was a traitor who secretly learned Tang Sect's unique skills in his previous life, and the other was an old rabbit, a 100,000-year Spirit Beast who had taken human form. Now they were pretending to be innocent children.
"It's time for lunch. Let's go to the cafeteria together," Wang Sheng called out.
"Great!" Xiao Wu sprang up from the bed with a carp-like flip, her long braid bouncing happily. "What's good to eat?"
Wang Sheng and a few other work-study students exchanged helpless glances: "What good food can we work-study students eat? It's good enough if we can fill our stomachs with the cheapest meals in the cafeteria."
Chu Xinghe rubbed his rumbling stomach. To save time that morning, he had only eaten a few bites of dry rations with boiled water. Now he was so hungry he could swallow an ox.
"As long as there's food, let's go quickly."
Tang San, however, stood still: "You guys go. I won't go."
He touched the few bronze coins left in his pocket, which he had saved up by being frugal.
Thinking that his father had once again taken all the family's money to buy alcohol, his heart felt bitter. He planned to eat some coarse biscuits he had brought from home to fill his stomach later.
Wang Sheng's gaze swept over Tang San's faded clothes and the patch on his knee, immediately understanding something. He wisely didn't ask further: "Then, Sister Xiao Wu, shall we…"
"Wait!" Xiao Wu suddenly froze, then belatedly asked: "Eating… costs money, right? Like those shiny Spirit coins?"
Wang Sheng nearly choked on his own saliva.
Good heavens, this one was even more extreme. She came here without even knowing what money was?
Looking at the two "paupers" with innate full spirit power in front of him, he gritted his teeth and patted his chest: "I'll treat you for these two days! Consider it a welcome for the new students!"
"That's great!" Xiao Wu cheered, grabbing the still hesitant Tang San. "Let's go, let's go! Why are you still dawdling when someone's treating?"
Tang San stumbled as he was pulled, following along helplessly.
Looking at Wang Sheng's back, Tang San thought to himself, seeing how sensible Wang Sheng was, he would look out for him more in the future.
Chu Xinghe rolled his eyes, slowly following behind.
The work-study students walked out of Dormitory Seven together, maintaining their tight formation as usual.
At Notting Academy, sticking together was their most basic survival rule; being alone meant potentially becoming a target for other students to bully.
As they crossed the wide training ground, students in twos and threes were moving in the same direction.
The cafeteria of Notting Junior Spirit Master Academy was an imposing building; the first-floor hall alone could accommodate over three hundred people.
When the work-study students arrived, a long line had already formed in front of the serving windows.
As soon as they stepped through the cafeteria entrance, a harsh voice came from the stairwell: "Oh, isn't that Wang Sheng's group of paupers?"
A boy of about eleven or twelve was leaning on the railing leading to the second floor. He was expensively dressed, handsome, but his eyes were full of disdain.
He deliberately wiggled his index finger, sneering: "The bottom is the bottom. You'll never set foot on the second floor in this life."
A cold glint flashed in Xiao Wu's eyes.
As the overlord of the Star Dou Great Forest, even the Titan Giant Ape called her "Sister Xiao Wu." How could she have ever endured such humiliation?
She darted forward, her petite figure flashing out from behind Wang Sheng: "What are you? Is eating on the second floor so great?"
The students on the stairs then noticed the delicate, doll-like girl.
The leading boy's eyes lit up, and he whistled flirtatiously: "What a pretty little loli. This lord is in a good mood today, so I'll let you off the hook for now."
After speaking, he swaggered upstairs with his followers.
"Stop!"
Xiao Wu lifted her foot to chase, but Tang San grabbed her wrist.
Tang San calmly advised: "Don't be impulsive. We're here to eat."
Chu Xinghe, standing nearby, shivered inwardly. He knew this outwardly gentle Tang San too well.
Deep within those seemingly calm eyes, he had probably already sentenced that arrogant boy to death.
After all, in Tang San's dictionary, the phrase "path to self-destruction" was often written in the most unexpected moments.
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#9
Chapter 9: Killing Chickens at RT-Mart
AI Model: gemini-2.5-flash
Just then, Tang San suddenly noticed a familiar figure entering the dining hall.
He looked up and saw Yu Xiaogang slowly approaching, his expression aloof.
"Teacher!" Tang San quickly stepped out of line and bowed respectfully.
Yu Xiaogang nodded slightly, his gaze gentle: "Have you packed everything?"
"It's all settled, thank you, Teacher, for the bedding," Tang San said sincerely.
For him, that new set of bedding was not just a timely help, but also a rare display of care.
In his previous life, Tang San was an orphan, and in this life, his father, Tang Hao, was an alcoholic who ignored him. He felt a father's care from Grandmaster for the first time.
Grandmaster gently patted his shoulder: "Let's go, come with me to the second floor for a meal. I'll also take you to my place so you can get familiar with the route."
Tang San hesitated, his gaze involuntarily sweeping towards Xiao Wu and Wang Sheng in the line.
If he showed special treatment right after enrollment, it might create a rift with his roommates, not to mention...
He didn't want Xiao Wu to think he was someone who clung to his teachers.
"Teacher, I still want to have this first meal with my roommates," he whispered.
A hint of approval flashed in Yu Xiaogang's eyes as he nodded: "Alright, you're right to do so. Then wait for me at the dining hall entrance after you finish eating."
With that, he turned and walked towards the second floor.
After Grandmaster had left, Wang Sheng leaned over and whispered, "Tang San, do you know Grandmaster?"
"He is my teacher," Tang San replied frankly.
Wang Sheng's expression immediately became strange. He hesitated for a moment but couldn't help but say, "You became his disciple? His strength..."
He looked left and right, lowering his voice, "Everyone in the academy knows that Grandmaster only stayed because of his relationship with the dean. They say he's almost fifty, and his spirit power is still stuck at rank twenty-nine. It's probably hopeless for him to break through in this life..."
Chu Xinghe, who was nearby, heard this and his expression changed slightly.
Although what Wang Sheng said was true, evaluating Tang San's teacher in front of him like this would probably...
Indeed, Tang San's eyes suddenly turned cold.
He slowly looked up, his gaze as sharp as a blade, his voice deep and icy: "Wang Sheng, if you still want to be my friend, please take back what you just said. This is the first time, and it will be the last."
Wang Sheng was stunned by his gaze and was speechless for a moment.
Tang San gave him a cold glance, then turned and walked out of the line: "I appreciate your good intentions, but there's no need to treat me to this meal."
With that, he walked out of the dining hall without looking back.
Wang Sheng was stunned by Tang San's sudden cold reaction and only recovered after a long while, muttering under his breath, "How inexplicable. Did that kid take the wrong medicine or something?"
He had meant to kindly warn him, but who knew Tang San not only didn't appreciate it but also turned hostile in public, which made Wang Sheng feel a surge of anger.
But due to Tang San's strength, he ultimately didn't dare to say anything more, only awkwardly rubbed his nose and turned to continue queuing for food.
Only Xiao Wu stood rooted to the spot, her gaze quietly following Tang San's departing back.
For some reason, that small, thin figure now seemed to have an inexplicable sense of tallness in her eyes.
Her lips curved slightly, and a hint of excitement flashed in her eyes: "Interesting..."
Chu Xinghe took all of this in, sighing inwardly, "As expected of the continent of love, even the spiritual little sister's gaze at the blonde is so spot-on."
However, he had no interest in the entanglement between Tang San and Xiao Wu. Right now, he just wanted to fill his stomach quickly. He had important business to attend to in the afternoon and no time to watch a high school drama here.
He walked directly to the serving window, took out six bronze coins, and ordered one meat and one vegetable dish.
This extravagant action immediately drew envious glances from the other work-study students in Dormitory Seven. Their daily remuneration for cleaning the campus was only ten bronze coins, and it was already difficult for them to eat their fill every meal, let alone eat meat.
After the meal, Wang Sheng took everyone to familiarize themselves with the campus, finding the classrooms and their respective cleaning areas.
When they returned to the dormitory, most of the work-study students were already sitting cross-legged, beginning to cultivate.
Most of them came from impoverished backgrounds, and only by breaking through to rank ten and acquiring their First Soul Ring within these six years could they officially graduate; otherwise, Notting Academy would not recognize their student status at all.
After all, on this continent where the strong are respected, a Spirit Master without a spirit ring is ultimately just a joke.
...
While the other work-study students were focused on cultivating, Chu Xinghe quietly got up and tiptoed out of the dormitory.
Passing through the academy gate, he walked directly towards Nuoding City.
The streets of Nuoding City were gradually thinning of pedestrians. Chu Xinghe followed the scent of blood to the "Dafeng Slaughterhouse" in the west of the city.
Dark red stains clung to the rusty iron gate, and several shirtless men at the entrance were pushing carts loaded with livestock in and out.
"Kid, if you're buying meat, go to the front door," a butcher with a rough face stopped him.
Chu Xinghe took a deep breath: "I'm here to apply for a job."
Inside the slaughterhouse, the continuous wails and the clanging of metal intertwined.
Chu Xinghe followed the guide through the blood-soaked work area and arrived at the boss's office.
"This is it," Chu Xinghe took a deep breath and pushed the door open.
With his current strength, he had no chance of winning a fight against a person.
But if he were facing poultry like chickens, ducks, and geese, that would be a different matter.
Fighting with people would result in injuries, but slaughtering poultry and livestock would not, at least not fatally.
Chu Xinghe looked at the slaughterhouse boss and said straightforwardly, "Boss, I'm a work-study student from Notting Academy, and I'd like to find a part-time job here to earn some living expenses."
Upon hearing this, the boss couldn't help but size him up.
Students from Notting Academy were all future Spirit Master prodigies, so why would one think of working in a place like a slaughterhouse?
"Kid, the work at the slaughterhouse isn't easy. It's dirty and tiring. Are you sure you want to do it?" the boss asked with a frown.
Chu Xinghe's expression was firm: "I'm a work-study student, and my family can't help me. I have to rely on myself for everything. I've done farm work since I was young, so I'm not afraid of hardship."
Seeing his resolute attitude, the boss pondered for a moment and finally nodded: "Alright, then you can work here from now on."
The Dafeng Slaughterhouse was not small; it not only processed chickens, ducks, and geese but also slaughtered livestock such as rabbits, pigs, cattle, and sheep.
The boss called over an old employee and instructed, "Old Jiang, show him the ropes."
Old Jiang was a dark-skinned middle-aged man with calloused hands, clearly an experienced veteran in this line of work.
He glanced at Chu Xinghe and said indifferently, "Follow me."
Chu Xinghe silently followed, already calculating in his mind.
Here, he could not only earn money but perhaps also absorb digital energy to help him improve his spirit power.
Stepping into the slaughter area, the strong smell of blood mixed with disinfectant assaulted him.
Old Jiang led Chu Xinghe to the area specifically for processing poultry, where several stainless steel blood collection basins were neatly arranged, their edges stained dark red from years of accumulated blood.
"We'll start with killing chickens," Old Jiang pulled a struggling rooster from a cage, skillfully holding it upside down by its feet. "This kind of work requires a gradual approach."
Chu Xinghe stood quietly to the side, his gaze focused on Old Jiang's every movement.
There was no hint of fear on his face; after all, having lived two lives, a minor scene like killing a chicken was not enough to make him nervous.
"Watch closely," Old Jiang aimed the chicken's head at the blood collection basin and lightly sliced its neck with the knife in his right hand. "The cut must be quick, and the position accurate."
Bright red blood immediately sprayed into the basin in an arc, making a "tap-tap" sound.
The chicken's struggles gradually weakened, eventually becoming still.
Throughout the process, Old Jiang constantly observed Chu Xinghe's reaction.
To his surprise, this seemingly frail child didn't even frown.
"Want to try?" Old Jiang handed him the knife.
Chu Xinghe took the knife and, mimicking Old Jiang, pulled a chicken from the cage.
His tender small hand held the chicken's feet steadily, and his other hand accurately made an incision on the chicken's neck. Blood flowed from the cut into the basin, the entire process clean and efficient.
"Good technique!" Old Jiang praised sincerely, "Your posture, it's as if you've done this before."
Chu Xinghe gently shook his head: "First time."
He hung the processed chicken on a hook, his gaze thoughtfully lingering on the blood collection basin.
Just at the moment of slaughter, he clearly felt an extremely subtle fluctuation in his spirit power.
Although the increase was minuscule, perhaps only one-thousandth of one rank of spirit power, it was indeed present.
"Uncle Jiang, I'd like to practice this step more," Chu Xinghe said calmly, "The process of slaughtering is very helpful for spirit power control."
Old Jiang nodded knowingly: "If you want to become a Battle Soul Master in the future, you do need to get used to blood. But don't rush, practice poultry first."
He pointed to the struggling chickens and ducks in the nearby cages, "These should be enough for you to practice for a while."
Chu Xinghe didn't argue, only silently picked up another chicken.
He understood the principle that haste makes waste. Rather than aiming too high, it was better to build a solid foundation step by step.
The blood in the collection basin accumulated, reflecting his focused face.
Sunlight slanted through the high window, casting dappled shadows on the pool of blood.
Chu Xinghe's movements became more and more skilled, each cut precisely landing in the same spot.
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#10
Chapter 10 Xiao Chenyu's Provocation
AI Model: gemini-2.5-flash
In the evening, the afterglow of the setting sun dyed the flagstone paths of Notting Academy red.
Chu Xinghe dragged his tired body towards the dormitory, his cuffs still stained with fresh blood.
"Xinghe?"
A familiar voice came from behind him.
Chu Xinghe turned around and saw Tang San approaching from the direction of the teachers' dormitory area.
"Third Brother," Chu Xinghe nodded in greeting.
Tang San took a few steps closer and suddenly frowned, "Why do you smell like blood?"
"I just came back from the slaughterhouse," Chu Xinghe said frankly, "I found a part-time job there."
"Slaughterhouse?" Tang San looked surprised. "Why would you think of going to such a place?"
Chu Xinghe gave a bitter smile, "The subsidies for work-study students aren't enough. Third Brother, you know, we work-study students with no background have to find a way to support ourselves."
Tang San nodded thoughtfully.
He remembered his father, who drank all day, and had indeed never given him a single penny.
However, a job like a slaughterhouse, which required no technical skill, was not suitable for him. A blacksmith's shop was the best choice, as it could both earn money and hone his Disorder Splitting Wind Hammer Method.
"Actually..." Tang San hesitated, "I'm also considering finding a part-time job. But a place like a slaughterhouse..."
"Indeed, it's not suitable for Third Brother," Chu Xinghe interjected. "With Third Brother's forging skills, a blacksmith's shop would be more fitting. You can earn money and exercise your body."
Tang San's eyes lit up. "You think so too? I was just planning to ask around at the blacksmith shops in the city."
"Oh, right." Tang San suddenly remembered something. "Tomorrow, I'm going with Grandmaster to hunt for my First Soul Ring, so I might be gone for a few days."
"Congratulations, Third Brother," Chu Xinghe quickly said. "With Grandmaster's guidance, you'll definitely find the most suitable spirit ring."
Tang San nodded, then said with some difficulty, "It's just the cleaning area I'm responsible for..."
"Don't worry, Third Brother," Chu Xinghe immediately understood. "I'll clean it for you."
"How can I let you..."
"It's nothing," Chu Xinghe said with a smile. "Just remember to take care of your little brother once you become a Spirit Master."
Tang San also smiled. "Then it's settled. All the pay is yours."
Seeing Chu Xinghe so understanding, Tang San nodded with satisfaction, then his figure quickly disappeared around the corner of the dormitory building.
Only after confirming he was far away did Chu Xinghe let out a long breath, his back already drenched in cold sweat.
He couldn't afford to offend Tang San now.
Without strength or support, developing discreetly was the way to go.
Thinking of Flender's absurd statement in the original work, "Those who dare not cause trouble are mediocre," Chu Xinghe's lips curled into a cold smile.
A true man knows when to yield and when to stand firm. Those who make enemies everywhere are either idiots or imbeciles.
...
The next day.
Just as dawn was breaking, Chu Xinghe was shaken awake by Wang Sheng.
Although his six-year-old body was bolstered by three levels of spirit power, the after-effects of continuously slaughtering poultry at the slaughterhouse yesterday still left him aching all over.
He struggled to open his eyes, feeling every bone protest.
"Hurry up! We'll be late for the opening ceremony!" Wang Sheng's voice boomed in his ear.
Chu Xinghe forced himself to crawl up, his fingers trembling slightly.
He thought with a bitter smile, this small body was still too weak.
As he picked up the brand-new school uniform, the delicate touch on his fingertips made him momentarily dazed. Compared to his old coarse cloth clothes, which were patched upon patched, this fabric was as soft as silk.
Splashing cold water on his face finally dispelled some of his drowsiness.
The thin porridge and steamed buns in the cafeteria were bland, but at least they filled his stomach.
In the classroom, the new students chattered excitedly about their upcoming Spirit Master careers, while Chu Xinghe quietly sat in the corner, silently observing everything.
The opening ceremony was, as he expected, long and tedious.
The dean on the stage spoke endlessly about the academy's glorious history, cases of outstanding graduates being recommended to intermediate Spirit Master academies, and various plans for the new academic year.
Chu Xinghe suppressed a yawn, his gaze occasionally sweeping over the crowd. Tang San was indeed absent, presumably having already gone with Grandmaster to hunt for his First Soul Ring.
In the afternoon's theory class, an old teacher with white hair stood at the podium and began to explain the basic meditation method in a hoarse voice.
"spirit power cultivation, foundation comes first," the old teacher tapped the blackboard. "Today, I'll teach you the most orthodox meditation method. Listen carefully."
Chu Xinghe immediately straightened his back, concentrating on noting every key point.
Although he had system assistance, this basic meditation method was exactly the cultivation method he needed most right now.
"When sitting cross-legged, your spine must be straight, and your breathing must be slow..." The old teacher demonstrated the standard posture. "Feel the flow of spirit power within your body, just like this..."
Chu Xinghe adjusted his posture according to the demonstration and quickly grasped the essentials.
He could feel the spirit power within his body beginning to circulate slowly and orderly under the guidance of the meditation method.
Although the efficiency was far inferior to Tang San's Mysterious Heaven Skill, it was stable and reliable.
"Remember, avoid being eager for quick success in cultivation," the old teacher warned sternly. "Persisting in meditation every day and advancing step by step is the right path."
After class, Chu Xinghe went to the slaughterhouse as usual.
Amidst the rise and fall of his knife, he was pleasantly surprised to find that after cultivating with the meditation method, the spirit power increase obtained from each slaughter was noticeably greater than before.
Although it was still minuscule, he understood the principle of accumulating small amounts into large ones better than anyone.
As night fell, Chu Xinghe sat cross-legged on his dormitory bed and began to meditate according to the method he had learned during the day.
The feeling of spirit power circulating within his body intoxicated him. Combined with the digital energy absorbed by the system, he could clearly feel himself growing stronger little by little.
Day after day, Chu Xinghe strictly followed his cultivation plan: meditation in the morning, classes in the afternoon, work at the slaughterhouse in the afternoon, and continued meditation at night.
In the monotonous cycle, his spirit power steadily increased, and his slaughtering techniques became more and more refined.
Sometimes, late at night, Chu Xinghe would gaze out at the bright moon from the window, lost in thought.
He knew that this path was destined to be long and solitary, but he had enough patience to wait for the day he would emerge from his cocoon like a butterfly.
After all, in this World, strength was the foundation of everything.
...
The peaceful life at Notting Academy was soon disrupted.
Xiao Chenyu, the senior student who had previously harassed Xiao Wu in the cafeteria, once again caused trouble for the work-study students.
As the city lord's son, he had always enjoyed bullying work-study students, and this time he was even more excessive.
"You poor work-study students, do you even deserve to be arrogant in this academy?" Xiao Chenyu, with a group of followers, haughtily blocked the path of the Seven Dormitory residents.
Xiao Wu couldn't stand such an insult. Her eyebrows immediately shot up. "Xiao Chenyu, do you dare to have a match with us? The loser has to walk around the other person from now on!"
Chu Xinghe stood at the back of the crowd, calmly observing the situation.
His Spirit was not yet suitable for direct combat, but as a member of the Seven Dormitory, he had to take a stand.
On the day of the duel, the playground was packed with students eager to watch the spectacle.
The first match was Wang Sheng against Liu Long, one of Xiao Chenyu's subordinates, a senior student whose Spirit was a Green Wood Staff.
"Wang Sheng, War TigerSpirit!" Wang Sheng roared, his muscles bulging, his eyes flashing with battle intent.
Liu Long scoffed, shaking the long staff in his hand. "Liu Long, Green Wood Staff Spirit!"
As soon as the battle began, Wang Sheng displayed astonishing strength, each punch carrying a whistling wind.
But Liu Long's long staff danced like a nimble snake, always maintaining a safe distance.
Chu Xinghe saw clearly that Wang Sheng was at a disadvantage because he had no spirit ring and could not perform Martial Soul Avatar. Although his strength greatly increased, his agility was insufficient.
"A long inch is a strong inch," Chu Xinghe muttered to himself.
Liu Long was well aware of this, keeping his long staff at the optimal attack distance, leaving Wang Sheng with nowhere to exert his strength.
"Bang!" A heavy staff struck Wang Sheng's back, making him stumble a few steps.
"Wang Sheng!" The Seven Dormitory residents exclaimed in alarm.
Chu Xinghe clenched his fists, but he was powerless.
He looked at Xiao Wu on the sidelines and saw that her eyes were already burning with raging fury.
Just as the battle was in a stalemate, a figure suddenly rushed from the school gate.
Tang San, covered in dust, hurried back to the academy, with the spirit tool given to him by Yu Xiaogang hanging from his waist.
His appearance instantly silenced the entire playground.
"Little San, you're back!" Xiao Wu exclaimed in surprise.
Tang San's gaze swept over the disheveled Wang Sheng, then looked at the arrogant Xiao Chenyu, his eyes instantly turning cold. "Xiao Chenyu, as the city lord's son, don't you feel ashamed bullying work-study students?"
Xiao Chenyu sneered, "Another work-study student who doesn't know his place."
The next moment, he revealed his spirit ring; a white ten-year spirit ring slowly revolved beside him.
Tang San didn't waste words and directly released his Spirit.
When that yellow hundred-year spirit ring appeared, the entire 場 erupted in an uproar.
Chu Xinghe stood at the edge of the crowd, shaking his head inwardly.
The dignified son of the city lord couldn't even get a hundred-year spirit ring; this Xiao Chenyu was probably an illegitimate child, wasn't he?
The battle was without suspense.
Tang San, possessing Ghost Shadow Perplexing Track and Mysterious Jade Hand, combined with his hundred-year spirit ring skill "Binding," tied Xiao Chenyu up like a dumpling in just a few rounds.
The senior students looked at each other, none daring to step forward.
Just then, Xiao Wu suddenly leaped into the arena, her pink rabbit ears rising from her hair, and a yellow spirit ring also ascended from beneath her feet. "Twelfth-level Battle Soul MasterXiao Wu, please enlighten me."
Xiao Chenyu's face turned ashen.
One work-study student having a hundred-year spirit ring could be attributed to good luck, but two was absolutely no coincidence.
He admitted defeat dejectedly and left the playground in a hurry with his subordinates.
Chu Xinghe looked at Xiao Wu and Tang San, who were surrounded by admiration, and still felt a little envious.
He was too weak now, not even qualified to participate in such a battle.
But it didn't matter. The chickens and ducks waiting to be slaughtered at the Dafa slaughterhouse were his stepping stones to becoming stronger.
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 1 / 2500.4%Next