Prev
Ch. 31 / 25012.4%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#31
Chapter 31 Devil Training
Nottingham.
The night was exceptionally quiet, and the bright moonlight shone on the stone walls of Notting College.
Yang Yaozong stood by the window of the dean's office, holding a cup of coarse tea that had long since gone cold.
Outside the window, several nightingales were singing softly in the sycamore tree.
"Judging by the days, that kid has been at the War Frenzy Academy for over ten days. He should have adapted to life there by now..." A nostalgic look appeared on the old man's wrinkled face. Beneath his gray eyebrows, a pair of still bright eyes gazed towards the northwest. "He's just like that stubborn, silly boy from forty years ago..."
A gentle night breeze carries the distant chimes of the hour.
Yang Yaozong's thoughts drifted away with the sound of the bell, returning to his youthful days at the Fasnow Intermediate Soul Master Academy.
He and Zhan Tiankuang squeezed into a drafty dormitory room to share a braised soft-boned rabbit. To save the soul coins needed to hire a healer, they bandaged each other's wounds and raced to the top of the mountain behind the academy to see who could run to the top first...
"Getting old..." The old man shook his head self-deprecatingly, and slowly straightened up while holding onto the window frame.
Under the moonlight, his hunched back overlapped with the spirited young man in my memory.
At that moment, he suddenly understood a line from a novel he had read in his youth: one cannot possess youth and the feeling of youth at the same time.
...
Hope City.
As night deepened, the dormitory area of the War Maniac Academy was completely silent.
Chu Xinghe lay on his back on the bed, his eyes wide open, staring at the ceiling.
Everything he learned today lingered in his mind: Zhan Tiankuang's friendship with Dean Yang, that brief yet weighty letter of recommendation, and his teacher's words, "Whether you can stay depends on yourself."
These thoughts, like tangled vines, kept him tossing and turning, unable to sleep.
"call--"
Chu Xinghe suddenly sat up and began to cultivate his soul power by sitting cross-legged.
As his breathing gradually became steady, the soul power within his body flowed through his meridians like a stream.
When he opened his eyes again, light had already begun to appear outside the window.
Strangely, despite not sleeping all night, he was unusually excited.
He glanced at the clock on the table; there was still an hour until six o'clock, but the surging soul power within him made him unable to wait any longer.
The college path was deserted in the early morning, with only dewdrops glistening on the blades of grass.
Chu Xinghe's footsteps startled several early-rising larks, who flapped their wings and flew towards the brightening sky.
When he ran breathlessly to the training ground on the back mountain, a tall figure was already standing on the edge of the cliff, gazing into the distance with his back to him.
"We arrived ahead of schedule," Zhan Tiankuang said without turning his head, his voice exceptionally clear in the morning mist. "Didn't you sleep a wink last night?"
Chu Xinghe did not answer the obvious question, but straightened his back and said: "Teacher, I am ready."
"You've got guts, I like it." Zhan Tiankuang turned around, a rare smile on his lips.
He casually tossed him a bulging animal skin bag. "Carry this on your back, and don't use your soul power. Run ten laps around the back of the mountain. I'll be waiting for you at the summit."
Chu Xinghe took the animal skin bag, its heavy weight making his arm feel heavy.
Upon opening it, it was found to be filled with heavy iron blocks.
"What? You think it's too light?" Zhan Tiankuang raised an eyebrow.
"No, teacher." Chu Xinghe gritted his teeth and slung the animal skin bag over his shoulder.
When I took my first step, my knees almost bent from the sudden weight.
"Remember your goal," Zhan Tiankuang's voice rang out from behind. "The Heavenly Dou Royal Academy isn't a place you can get into just by talking."
Chu Xinghe adjusted his breathing, forcing himself to take the second step, the third step...
The shoulder strap of the leather bag rubbed against my shoulder, quickly making the panel painfully raw.
"Dean, you entered the Heaven Dou Royal Academy with a soul power of level 25 back then," Chu Xinghe said, panting. "I will reach that level within three years."
Chu Xinghe is only nine years old now, and even three years later, he will only be twelve years old, which is even younger than Zhan Tiankuang when he was admitted to the Tiandou Royal Academy.
Zhan Tiankuang's figure had already disappeared from the spot, only his voice came from afar: "Anyone can talk big, let me see what you're capable of!"
By the time he reached the fifth lap, Chu Xinghe's legs were trembling like reeds in the wind.
Sweat soaked through the coarse training clothes, turning into salt frost in the morning breeze.
Every breath felt like swallowing a burning coal, my throat burned with pain.
"Is that all you've got?" Zhan Tiankuang appeared on a large rock by the roadside at some point. "Those noble children grow up soaking in medicinal baths and eating soul beast meat. What do you have to compare with them?"
Chu Xinghe did not answer, but clenched his teeth and forced himself to continue forward.
Images of pampered aristocratic students and aloof genius soul masters flashed through his mind...
These images lashed at his weary body like whips.
"Think about your goals!" Zhan Tiankuang's voice boomed like thunder. "Think about what you told me!"
The grand goal flashed through Chu Xinghe's chaotic mind, and an inexplicable power surged from his dantian, causing him to forcibly quicken his pace.
"I will become the strongest Soul Master!" Chu Xinghe shouted. "I will make everyone remember my name!"
A hint of surprise flashed in Zhan Tiankuang's eyes, but he quickly regained his stern expression: "You talk a good game, but if you don't finish ten laps, don't even think about having breakfast today!"
By the seventh lap, Chu Xinghe's consciousness had begun to fade.
The scenery before my eyes was distorted and deformed, and a buzzing sound filled my ears.
But he continued to walk mechanically, the animal skin bag on his shoulder seemingly fused to his flesh.
"Stop." Zhan Tiankuang suddenly blocked his way. "Put your bag down."
Chu Xinghe stopped in a daze, but staggered a few steps because of the weight that was suddenly lifted.
"Activate your Martial Soul," Zhan Tiankuang commanded. "Now!"
Chu Xinghe barely managed to activate his soul power, and the Agumon martial soul possessed him.
To his surprise, his body, which should have been exhausted, was now circulating its soul power exceptionally smoothly.
"Can you feel it?" Zhan Tiankuang's voice softened a bit. "After extreme training, the activity of soul power will be enhanced. This is something that those pampered noble children will never experience."
Chu Xinghe nodded, sweat dripping from his chin onto the ground.
"Continue." Zhan Tiankuang pointed to the remaining three laps. "This time you can use soul power, but you must maintain the state of martial soul possession."
During the last three laps, Chu Xinghe felt like he was flying.
The power brought by the Martial Soul allowed him to leap several meters with each step.
When he finished the last lap, he collapsed to his knees, panting heavily.
"You're still far from it." Zhan Tiankuang stood in front of him, looking down at him, and said, "From today onwards, this will be your daily routine. Weighted running in the morning, combat training in the afternoon, and medicinal baths in the evening."
Chu Xinghe struggled to lift his head, his eyes burning with an indomitable flame: "Teacher... I will definitely... become the strongest..."
A complex emotion flashed in Zhan Tiankuang's eyes: "Remember what you said today."
He turned and walked towards the mountain path. "Come on, I'll take you to the medicinal bath. If you faint on the way, today's training will be doubled."
Chu Xinghe stood up unsteadily and followed after them, dragging his tired body.
...
And so the grueling training began.
In the days that followed, Zhan Tiankuang devised a rigorous training plan for Chu Xinghe, leaving no room for slack.
At dawn, just as the sky was beginning to lighten, Chu Xinghe had to carry a heavy iron sandbag and run two laps around the back mountain.
Zhan Tiankuang forbade him from using soul power, and he had to complete the training entirely with his physical strength.
The mountain road was rugged, and running with a heavy load was extremely strenuous, but Zhan Tiankuang's request was very simple.
If you don't finish the run, don't even think about eating breakfast.
After training, Chu Xinghe dragged his tired body to the cafeteria to replenish his energy.
Zhan Tiankuang specially arranged a special diet that could quickly restore physical strength without making the body sluggish.
After a short rest after lunch, we went to the teaching building for a theory class to learn about soul power circulation, combat strategies, and the weaknesses of various soul beasts.
The afternoon was for live-fire training.
Zhan Tiankuang personally guided the combat techniques, from breaking down basic moves to complex soul skill combinations. Every movement had to be repeatedly practiced until it became muscle memory.
Sometimes, Chu Xinghe would go directly to the Soul Arena for actual combat, honing his adaptability in real battles.
The training session was still ongoing at night.
Chu Xinghe had to run with the load again, but this time, Zhan Tiankuang's demands were even more stringent.
You have to run until you are completely exhausted and can't take another step before you can stop.
Each time, Chu Xinghe completed the training in a state of near-consciousness, as if he had been pulled out of the water.
After training, Zhan Tiankuang would have him soak in a specially made medicinal bath.
The medicine can quickly repair muscle damage, relieve fatigue, and strengthen muscles and bones.
Despite the painful process, Chu Xinghe could clearly feel that his body was becoming stronger at an astonishing rate.
Day after day, the grueling training continued.
Chu Xinghe's strength also increased rapidly during this almost brutal training.
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 31 / 25012.4%Next Prev
Ch. 32 / 25012.8%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#32
Chapter 32 Soul Power Level 15
Two and a half months later, in the dormitory.
Chu Xinghe sat cross-legged on the bed, his body surrounded by faint fluctuations of soul power.
Suddenly, his eyelashes trembled slightly, and his eyes snapped open, a glint of light flashing in them.
"Finally level 15..."
Chu Xinghe murmured to himself, his voice filled with barely concealed joy.
He slowly opened his palms, feeling the surging soul power flowing within his body.
In just three months, he jumped from level thirteen to level fifteen. Such a cultivation speed is rare even in the War Mania Academy.
"I knew I hadn't come to the wrong place." Chu Xinghe's lips curled up slightly.
He knew clearly that such progress stemmed not only from his own tireless efforts over the past two and a half months, but also from Zhan Tiankuang's strict guidance.
Outside the window, the bright sunshine is just right.
Chu Xinghe got up and walked to the window, letting the warm sunlight fall on his face.
He squinted, his thoughts gradually becoming clearer.
"A debt of gratitude must be repaid, and a debt of vengeance must be avenged." This has always been his motto in life.
He was temporarily unable to repay the great kindness of Yang Yaozong's patronage and Zhan Tiankuang's generous sharing of knowledge.
But that senior student Zhao Tiezhu, who was always "helpful"...
A sharp glint flashed in Chu Xinghe's eyes, and his knuckles tightened unconsciously.
Perhaps it's time for some people to understand that the "easy target" of the past is no longer the same.
...
Registration area for the Battle Arena.
Chu Xinghe walked through the bustling crowd, his black outfit highlighting his noticeably more muscular physique over the past two months.
"Brother Xinghe."
A deep voice came from behind.
Chu Xinghe knew who it was without even turning around; the only person in the entire War Maniac Academy who would call him that was Zhao Tiezhu.
Sure enough, a burly man, as tall as an iron tower, pushed through the crowd and rushed over.
Zhao Tiezhu grabbed Chu Xinghe's shoulder and asked, "Are you going to sign up for the Soul Battle?"
His voice was as loud as ever, drawing the attention of several students around him.
Chu Xinghe gently brushed the large hand off his shoulder and nodded: "That's right, I'm going to challenge Lin Ye."
"You want to challenge Lin Ye?" Zhao Tiezhu's expression suddenly turned serious, his thick eyebrows furrowing tightly. "His Shadow Leopard Martial Soul is incredibly fast; even my Ironclad Rhinoceros couldn't withstand it."
Chu Xinghe did not answer immediately, but instead turned his gaze to the Soul Ranking hanging in the distance.
Lin Ye's name was prominently listed, followed by his Soul Power level of 18 and his record of 27 wins and 6 losses.
"I know his strength." Chu Xinghe withdrew his gaze, his voice as calm as if discussing the weather. "That's precisely why I must challenge him."
Zhao Tiezhu rubbed his hands together anxiously, his knuckles cracking: "Your soul power is only level fourteen, why are you in such a hurry? At your cultivation speed, your soul power will catch up with his in two more years."
"Brother Zhao," Chu Xinghe interrupted him, his eyes unwavering, "Do you remember what Lin Ye said after you lost to him last month?"
Zhao Tiezhu's face immediately turned ugly.
Of course he remembered that Lin Ye had stepped on him as he lay on the ground and mocked him, saying that the Ironclad Rhinoceros Martial Soul was only fit to be a stepping stone for the Shadow Leopard.
The humiliation he felt that day remains vivid in his memory, keeping him awake for several nights in a row.
"I..." Zhao Tiezhu opened his mouth, but didn't know what to say.
Chu Xinghe patted him on the shoulder: "In the past two and a half months, what my teacher taught me was not only how to improve my soul power, but more importantly, how to fight. Lin Ye's soul power is indeed higher than mine, but fighting is never just about soul power level."
After saying that, Chu Xinghe turned and walked towards the registration desk, leaving Zhao Tiezhu standing there in a daze.
Looking at Chu Xinghe's tall and straight back, he suddenly realized that this junior who needed his care just three months ago had now grown into such a calm and confident person.
At the registration desk, Zhou Tao, who was in charge of registration, was sorting through a thick stack of battle application forms.
"Teacher Zhou, I want to sign up to challenge Lin Ye." Chu Xinghe's voice wasn't loud, but it silenced the surrounding noise.
Zhou Tao raised his head, his eyes slightly narrowed: "Chu Xinghe? I remember your soul power is level fourteen."
He put down the challenge application form in his hand, crossed his hands on the table, and said, "Challenging someone of a higher level is not a game, are you sure?"
"I'm sure," Chu Xinghe replied crisply.
Zhou Tao pondered for a moment, then took out a crystal-clear soul-testing stone from the drawer: "According to the rules, soul power needs to be re-tested when challenging someone of a higher level."
Chu Xinghe placed his right hand on the Soul Testing Stone without hesitation.
As soul power was injected, the Soul Testing Stone began to glow with a crimson light, spreading outward from its core like a ignited flame.
The light grew brighter and brighter, finally stopping precisely at the fifteenth mark.
A gasp of amazement rose from the crowd.
Advancing two levels in three months is a rare speed of cultivation in the history of the War Maniac Academy.
A hint of appreciation flashed in Zhou Tao's eyes as he carefully recorded the information: "Soul power level 15, confirmed."
He took out a battle schedule and wrote down the battle information: "Tomorrow at 2 PM, Ninth Battle Arena. According to the rules, the higher-level player cannot refuse a challenge from a higher level, unless they are willing to deduct ten points."
Chu Xinghe accepted the match schedule and bowed to Zhou Tao, saying, "Thank you, Teacher Zhou."
As he turned to leave, he discovered that Zhao Tiezhu had somehow squeezed to the front row, staring wide-eyed at the Soul Testing Stone, his mouth agape as if he could fit an egg in it.
"Brother Zhao, let's go to the cafeteria." Chu Xinghe waved to Zhao Tiezhu, who was still in a daze.
Zhao Tiezhu shook his head as if waking from a dream, and hurried after him, saying, "Wait!"
He grabbed Chu Xinghe's wrist, his rough hand trembling slightly with excitement. "Explain yourself clearly, what exactly is going on with this level fifteen?"
Chu Xinghe felt the force coming from his wrist, and the corners of his mouth turned up slightly.
He gently pulled his hand away from Zhao Tiezhu's and patted the other's shoulder: "The teacher's special training is very effective."
"That's it?" Zhao Tiezhu's eyes widened, his thick eyebrows almost flying off. "Do you know how long it takes for an ordinary student to increase their soul power by one level? At least half a year!"
He waved his arms exaggeratedly, "Your speed is an insult to us ordinary people!"
Chu Xinghe was amused by his expression and chuckled, "Maybe... this is talent?"
"You!" Zhao Tiezhu clutched his chest and took a half step back, feigning heartbreak. "My fragile heart has been dealt a severe blow!"
He grabbed Chu Xinghe's shoulder with such force that the latter stumbled. "You have to treat me today! I'm going to turn my grief into appetite!"
Chu Xinghe steadied himself and shook his head helplessly: "Fine, fine, I'll treat you to a roasted rabbit leg, okay?"
"Rabbit legs?" Zhao Tiezhu exaggeratedly curled his lip, gesturing with his arm, "It has to be at least a whole braised soft-boned rabbit! The kind that Chef Wang makes specially, with double the amount of sauce!"
He swallowed hard as he spoke, his eyes shining with an astonishing intensity.
Chu Xinghe watched as this burly man, a head taller than himself, bargained like a child, and couldn't help but laugh out loud: "Alright, alright, the Soft Bone Rabbit it is."
The two chatted and laughed as they crossed the training ground, attracting curious glances from many trainees along the way.
Chu Xinghe noticed that several students were pointing at them and whispering, clearly the news of the soul test had already spread.
"I heard that's the dean's personal disciple..."
"His soul power increased by two levels in three months, that's terrifying..."
"I wish I had that kind of talent..."
Hearing these comments, Zhao Tiezhu proudly puffed out his chest, as if he himself were being praised.
He leaned closer to Chu Xinghe and lowered his voice, saying, "You're a celebrity in the academy now, how does it feel?"
Chu Xinghe shook his head, his face showing no trace of pride: "It's just the beginning. My teacher said that in front of true powerhouses, a Soul Master isn't even considered an entry-level expert."
"You're just too serious," Zhao Tiezhu patted his back forcefully. "You should enjoy the envious glances of others sometimes!"
The aroma of food from the cafeteria was already faintly wafting through the air, and Zhao Tiezhu's stomach promptly let out a loud protest.
He rubbed his stomach sheepishly, but his eyes lit up: "I have to order braised soft-boned rabbit today! Let me tell you, Chef Wang's soft-boned rabbit at the cafeteria is absolutely amazing, the meat is so tender it melts in your mouth..."
Chu Xinghe couldn't help but smile as he watched Zhao Tiezhu describe the food so enthusiastically.
This honest and straightforward senior may talk a lot, but he is definitely a friend worth confiding in.
"Okay, let's try this signature dish you mentioned today." Chu Xinghe nodded in agreement. "But I still have to go to Teacher Zhan for special training this afternoon, so I can't be late."
Zhao Tiezhu patted his chest and assured him, "Don't worry, I'll make sure you're well-fed and watered, and you'll be back for training on time!"
The two entered the spacious and bright cafeteria. Zhao Tiezhu found a window seat with practiced ease and eagerly waved to the waiter to order.
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 32 / 25012.8%Next Prev
Ch. 33 / 25013.2%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#33
Chapter 33 Nothing more than practice makes perfect
As Chu Xinghe gazed out the window at the students sweating profusely on the training field, his thoughts drifted to tomorrow's match.
Lin Ye is not an easy opponent, but it is precisely this kind of challenge that can test the true results of the hellish training over the past two and a half months.
As Zhan Tiankuang once said, true strength is not cultivated in a greenhouse, but honed in real combat.
"The food is here!" Zhao Tiezhu's loud voice pulled Chu Xinghe back to reality.
His eyes lit up as he stared at the braised rabbit with tender bones that the waiter had brought out, and he couldn't wait to pick up his chopsticks. "Try it, I guarantee you'll never want to leave!"
Chu Xinghe pulled himself together, picked up his chopsticks, and took a piece of rabbit meat.
The meat was indeed as Zhao Tiezhu described: tender and juicy, with just the right amount of spices.
He looked up at Zhao Tiezhu, who was wolfing down his food, and suddenly realized that having such a friend who genuinely cared about him was something more precious than breaking through his soul power.
"See? I didn't lie to you, did I?" Zhao Tiezhu asked, his mouth full of food, his words muffled.
Chu Xinghe nodded sincerely: "It is indeed delicious. However..."
He paused deliberately, looking at Zhao Tiezhu's tense expression, before slowly adding, "Compared to tomorrow's victory, this is just an appetizer."
Zhao Tiezhu was taken aback at first, then burst into laughter, raising a glass full of juice: "Good! With your confidence, I wish you great success tomorrow!"
The two cups collided in mid-air, making a crisp sound.
...
The next day, in the afternoon.
Chu Xinghe arrived at the Ninth Battle Arena half an hour early.
He sat cross-legged on the bluestone slab of the preparation area, his eyes slightly closed, his soul power flowing like a trickle through his meridians.
Are you nervous?
Zhao Tiezhu's voice came along with the sound of hurried footsteps.
Fine beads of sweat clung to his forehead, and he clutched an oil paper package tightly in his hand, clearly having run all the way here.
"It's alright." Chu Xinghe opened his eyes and took the still-steaming oil paper package.
Upon opening the lid, you'll find two golden osmanthus cakes, their sweet aroma filling the air.
"It's specially made for food-type Soul Masters; it can quickly replenish Soul Power." Zhao Tiezhu wiped his sweat. "I queued for half an hour to buy it."
Chu Xinghe nodded his thanks and chewed the osmanthus cake slowly.
The sweet but not cloying taste melted on the tip of the tongue, and a warm current flowed down the esophagus into the dantian, instantly accelerating the circulation of soul power within the body.
"Both players are in position!"
The referee's deep voice resounded throughout the stadium.
Chu Xinghe stood up, straightened the collar of his training uniform, and strode steadily toward the center of the Soul Arena.
The stands were already packed, and the sounds of discussion rose and fell like a tide.
Across from him, Lin Ye strolled lazily onto the stage.
He wore a form-fitting black battle robe, which made his figure appear even taller and more slender.
Beneath a neat head of short hair, his narrow eyes were as sharp as a knife, and a faint, cold smile played on his lips.
"I heard you're Dean Zhan's personal disciple?" Lin Ye sized Chu Xinghe up and down, his tone flippant. "Two levels in three months, not bad at all. Too bad..."
He raised his right hand slightly, his fingertips gleaming coldly. "Still not enough in front of me."
"The battle begins!"
At the referee's command, both of them simultaneously activated their martial spirits.
Chu Xinghe's eyes narrowed, and his soul power surged.
A deafening roar erupted from his throat, and orange light rose from beneath his feet.
His hands transformed into sharp claws covered in fine scales, with three-inch-long sharp blades extending from his nails, and a dazzling yellow soul ring appeared behind him.
At the same time, Lin Ye's figure also underwent a strange change.
Dark soul power enveloped his entire body like mist, his limbs became long and powerful, his nails extended into sharp claws, his eyes transformed into vertical pupils like those of a feline, and a yellow soul ring rose behind him, though its color was slightly dim.
"Whoosh—"
The sound of something cutting through the air suddenly rang out.
Lin Ye's figure suddenly blurred under everyone's watchful eyes, leaving only a fleeting afterimage.
Chu Xinghe's pupils contracted sharply, and he instinctively rolled to the left.
"laugh!"
A cold glint grazed his cheek, leaving three claw marks, each an inch deep, on the hard stone platform where he had stood, sending stone chips flying.
"You reacted pretty quickly." Lin Ye's voice came from all directions, with a teasing tone like a cat playing with a mouse.
Chu Xinghe held his breath and focused his mind, Zhan Tiankuang's teachings echoing in his mind: "Agility-type Soul Masters rely on speed, but each change of direction consumes Soul Power and will reveal habitual movements before attacking."
Without making a sound, he concentrated his soul power in his feet and suddenly rushed to the open space to his right.
This action caused an uproar in the stands.
"Have you given up on yourself?" Lin Ye's sneer echoed throughout the room.
The next moment, his figure flashed like a ghost, appearing at the location Chu Xinghe had predicted, his right hand forming a claw as he aimed straight for Chu Xinghe's back.
At the critical moment, Chu Xinghe twisted his body like a fish, narrowly avoiding the fatal blow.
At the same time, its right claw, accompanied by a whooshing sound, struck towards Lin Ye's chest.
"Clang!"
A resounding clang of metal rang out as the two men's claws clashed, sparks flying everywhere.
They separated immediately upon contact, each taking three steps back.
A deafening gasp erupted from the stands, and Zhao Tiezhu, standing in the crowd, clenched his fists nervously.
"That's interesting." Lin Ye shook his slightly numb wrist, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes. "But the warm-up should be over."
His figure blurred again, this time even faster, leaving afterimages on the Soul Battle Stage, as if several Lin Ye existed at the same time.
A sharp, piercing sound came from all directions, making it difficult to discern the true location of the entity.
Chu Xinghe stood motionless, his eyes slightly closed, as if he had given up resisting.
"What is he doing?" a student in the stands exclaimed.
Just as Lin Ye's attack was about to strike, Chu Xinghe suddenly opened his eyes, and his right claw stabbed out at a tricky angle, the tip of the claw glowing with an orange-red light.
"laugh!"
The sound of tearing fabric was particularly jarring. The claw tip precisely sliced across Lin Ye's left sleeve, drawing a line of bright red blood.
"How is this possible?!" Lin Ye retreated hastily, his face showing shock for the first time.
His speed was almost unmatched among his peers, and no one could ever predict his attack trajectory, let alone the fact that his opponent's soul power was only level fifteen. He expressed his incomprehension.
Chu Xinghe did not pursue, but calmly said, "Your left shoulder will subconsciously drop three inches before attacking; this is your habitual movement."
Lin Ye's face was ashen, and the contempt in his eyes was finally replaced by solemnity.
He crossed his arms in front of his chest, his soul power fluctuations suddenly intensified, and his yellow soul ring shone brightly.
"First Soul Skill, Shadow Leopard Assault!"
His figure completely disappeared from the spot, and the next second, six black shadows appeared on the battle stage at the same time, rushing towards Chu Xinghe from different angles.
Each dark shadow whistled through the air, its sharp claws gleaming coldly in the sunlight, making it impossible to distinguish which was real.
Chu Xinghe took a deep breath and remained calm.
He remembered Zhan Tiankuang's teachings: clone-type soul skills must have a primary and secondary element, and the physical body must have a weakness.
The fire perception ability granted to him by Agumon's martial spirit allowed him to keenly sense that the temperature of the second clone on the right was slightly higher than that of the other phantoms.
"Now!"
Chu Xinghe leaped up, his right claw wreathed in orange-red flames, and stabbed precisely at the dark figure.
"puff!"
The dull thud of claws piercing flesh silenced the entire room instantly.
Lin Ye's figure appeared, blood dripping down his left arm, blooming like red plum blossoms on the bluestone slab.
His face was contorted with pain, but he still managed to stay upright.
"You..." Lin Ye's voice trembled with pain.
Chu Xinghe took a step back and assumed a defensive stance: "Admit defeat. I have injured the meridians in your left arm, and you will not be able to exert any force for a short time."
Lin Ye suddenly grinned maliciously, a smile tinged with madness: "You think this is the end?"
His right hand suddenly pressed against the wound on his left shoulder, and blood seeped out between his fingers, but strangely it floated in the air, forming eerie blood-red runes.
"Blood Shadow Berserk!"
A violent surge of soul power swept across the entire area like a hurricane. Lin Ye's eyes turned blood red, and the blood at his wounds stopped flowing, instead forming a layer of blood-red armor on his body.
His speed increased again, this time so fast that even his afterimage was not clearly visible, only the sharp sound of air being torn apart echoed on the Soul Fighting Stage.
"Oh no!" Zhao Tiezhu suddenly stood up, his face ashen. "He used a forbidden technique!"
Chu Xinghe felt a blur before his eyes, followed by a sharp pain in his chest.
Lin Ye's claw strike landed solidly on his chest, tearing his training clothes instantly and revealing five bloody marks.
"Bang!"
He was sent flying backward, barely managing to regain his footing at the edge of the arena. A mouthful of blood welled up in his throat, but he forced it back down. His internal organs felt as if they had shifted, sending waves of excruciating pain through him.
"Die!" Lin Ye's figure appeared above Chu Xinghe's head like a ghost, his hands forming claws and aiming straight for the top of Chu's head, the tips of his claws glowing with a bloodthirsty red light.
At the critical moment of life and death, Zhan Tiankuang's admonition flashed through Chu Xinghe's mind: "The strongest defense is not dodging, but using offense as defense. When there is no way to retreat, you must have the courage to perish together with the enemy!"
His eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he neither dodged nor avoided. His right claw ignited with blazing flames and went straight for Lin Ye's heart!
This move, "Crimson Dragon Claw," is extremely powerful, and it's a move designed to take everyone down with it.
If Lin Ye insists on attacking, he will inevitably have his heart pierced as well.
In a flash, a hint of fear crossed Lin Ye's eyes.
His attack faltered slightly, and he spun around, trying to avoid the fatal blow.
Chu Xinghe had been waiting for this moment!
His attack suddenly changed, turning a stab into a slap, and his right claw, burning with flames, slammed hard into Lin Ye's waist.
"Bang!"
With a muffled thud, Lin Ye was thrown several feet away like a broken sack, rolling several times on the ground before coming to a stop.
He struggled to stand up, but found that his soul power was in disarray due to the backlash of the forbidden technique, and a tearing pain came from his meridians, making him unable to move for a moment.
The entire room fell silent.
Everyone held their breath, watching Chu Xinghe walk step by step toward Lin Ye, who had collapsed to the ground.
"You lost." Chu Xinghe's voice wasn't loud, but it clearly carried throughout the entire arena.
The referee then came to his senses and announced loudly, "The winner is Chu Xinghe!"
A deafening roar erupted from the stands, the sound almost lifting the roof off.
Zhao Tiezhu jumped over the railing and rushed onto the Soul Battle Platform, grabbing the swaying Chu Xinghe in his arms: "You're amazing! How did you do that?"
Chu Xinghe wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and gave a tired but satisfied smile: "Nothing special, just practice makes perfect."
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 33 / 25013.2%Next Prev
Ch. 34 / 25013.6%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#34
Chapter 34 The Great Soul Arena
"Brother Zhao."
Chu Xinghe's eyes gleamed with excitement, and his voice was filled with eager anticipation, "Take me to the Great Soul Arena to see what it's like!"
Zhao Tiezhu raised an eyebrow, a playful smile appearing on his rugged face.
"Oh? So eager?" He crossed his arms and looked Chu Xinghe in front of him with great interest. "The Great Soul Arena is not the academy's training ground. The opponents there will not show any mercy."
Chu Xinghe's lips curled slightly, his eyes gleaming with fighting spirit. "I know, but I'm ready."
Zhao Tiezhu did not answer immediately, but instead stroked his chin, secretly calculating in his mind.
Students at the Battle Maniac Academy typically need three years of training and their soul power to reach level fifteen or higher before they can enter the Great Soul Arena. But Chu Xinghe…
In just three months, his soul power had reached level 15, and he even defeated Lin Ye, who had a soul power level of 18.
Such talent should not be bound by convention.
"You're quite confident, kid," Zhao Tiezhu chuckled. "But the Great Soul Arena isn't just about soul power; practical experience, adaptability, and mental fortitude are all indispensable. Are you sure you can handle it?"
Chu Xinghe's gaze remained firm, unwavering in the slightest. "How will you know if you don't try?"
Zhao Tiezhu stared at him for a few seconds, then suddenly burst into laughter, patting him heavily on the shoulder. "Good! You've got guts!"
A hint of appreciation flashed in his eyes. "Alright, I'll show you around. But remember this—"
His tone became slightly serious, "Although the Great Soul Arena isn't a life-or-death battle, injuries are inevitable. Don't be reckless; know when to admit defeat, understand?"
Chu Xinghe nodded, his fighting spirit intensifying. "Don't worry, I won't admit defeat easily."
Zhao Tiezhu shook his head and chuckled, "Alright, then let me see just how much you've improved in these three months!"
...
The next morning, Chu Xinghe left the academy with Zhao Tiezhu.
The Grand Arena of Hope City is located in the most prosperous central area of the city. The magnificent buildings gleam in the sunlight, and its scale is comparable to that of the branch halls of the Spirit Hall.
From a distance, the entire building is oval-shaped, with its towering dome reaching hundreds of feet into the sky. It looks like a lurking giant beast, exuding a sense of oppressive power that makes one's heart tremble.
Only after getting closer did Chu Xinghe truly appreciate the grandeur of the building.
The main arena is surrounded by twenty-four sub-arenas, which can accommodate 60,000 spectators at the same time. Among them are 120 VIP boxes, which are reserved for the use of the powerful and wealthy.
Even though it was still daytime, the area outside the Grand Arena was bustling with people and filled with noise, demonstrating the extraordinary popularity of this holy arena for competition.
"Let's go, let's register first." Zhao Tiezhu patted Chu Xinghe on the shoulder and led him towards the registration desk, explaining the rules in a low voice at the same time.
"There are three types of fighting spirit here." He held up three fingers. "The first type is 'Game of Strategy,' which is a pure combat exchange, stopping when the point is reached and strictly prohibiting any killing blows."
"The second type is the 'life-or-death duel.'" His tone was slightly serious. "It is usually used to settle life-or-death feuds, but some desperate criminals participate in this type of battle specifically for high bounties."
"As for the third type..." He paused, a sharp glint in his eyes, "it's called a 'tug-of-war,' an upgraded version of a life-or-death duel. The winner can take everything in the wager, including the opponent's life. Many nobles and sects choose this method when settling irreconcilable feuds."
Chu Xinghe nodded slightly, making sure to remember this information.
"It seems I can start with 'gaming' and test the strength of other Soul Masters..." he thought to himself. "If the opponent is not as strong as I imagined, perhaps I can consider participating in a life-or-death battle."
After all, he had discovered a pattern after fighting for some time.
The digital energy gained from defeating an opponent is far less than that gained from killing them.
Under the premise of ensuring safety, the life-or-death battle can not only obtain more digital energy, but also earn soul coins.
Seeing that Chu Xinghe was listening attentively, Zhao Tiezhu straightened his back, a sense of pride welling up within him.
The dean personally taught Chu Xinghe, and now I am also guiding him. In a way, wouldn't I be on equal footing with the dean?
This thought made the corners of his mouth unconsciously turn up.
Lost in his pleasant fantasy, Zhao Tiezhu suddenly slapped his forehead: "By the way, Xinghe, did you notice that stone tablet at the entrance of the Great Soul Arena?"
"A stone tablet?" Chu Xinghe looked around, his face showing confusion.
"It's the one covered in names," Zhao Tiezhu pointed to the entrance. "Everyone who comes to the Great Soul Arena should take a good look at it."
Following the directions, Chu Xinghe noticed the stone tablet, blackened by the passage of time, covered with countless names, which gleamed coldly in the sunlight.
Zhao Tiezhu's voice suddenly turned low: "That is the Soul Battle Monument. Each name on it represents a Soul Master who died in the Great Soul Battle Arena."
He turned and looked directly into Chu Xinghe's eyes. "You are indeed exceptionally talented, but in a life-or-death struggle, victory or defeat often hinges on a single thought. Remember, only by living can you have a future."
Chu Xinghe gazed at the stone tablet and slowly nodded.
The registration process was simpler than expected, but when the staff announced the registration fee of ten gold soul coins, Chu Xinghe awkwardly touched his money bag.
The training over this period has taken a toll, and now I only have two gold soul coins left in my pocket, which are clinking around.
"Use mine first." Zhao Tiezhu readily slapped out the coins, his bell-like laughter dispelling the previous heaviness. "Consider it an investment in a future Title Douluo."
Holding the newly acquired Iron Soul Badge, Chu Xinghe felt the coolness emanating from the metal.
He remembered this kindness.
As he followed Zhao Tiezhu toward the passage to the Soul Arena, his gaze unconsciously drifted toward the tombstone again, and he clenched his fist inwardly.
The layouts of the various arenas are largely the same, with only slight differences in decorative details.
Zhao Tiezhu led Chu Xinghe to the area reserved for first-ring Soul Masters, and as soon as the heavy oak door was opened, a deafening cheer immediately rushed towards them.
As they walked through the dimly lit passage, Zhao Tiezhu continued his explanation: "Each arena is divided into two main areas: the strategic zone and the life-or-death zone." His voice was particularly loud in the noisy environment. "Each zone is further divided into three battle modes: single battle, two-player battle, and team battle."
Chu Xinghe looked around and saw six arenas arranged in a circle, separated by iron fences, with crowds of cheering spectators lining the sides.
He then realized that the Battle Arena of the Battle Maniac Academy was actually modeled after this place, but its scale and grandeur were far different.
"Newbies, watch first, then fight." Zhao Tiezhu took out a few silver soul coins to buy tickets and led Chu Xinghe to his seat in the audience.
This is an upcoming one-on-one battle, and the ticket price is surprisingly cheap.
When Zhao Tiezhu turned to give instructions, he was startled by the fighting spirit burning in Chu Xinghe's eyes.
Those eyes shone brightly in the dimly lit stands, as if flames danced deep within their pupils.
"Remember this," Zhao Tiezhu unconsciously lowered his voice, "Death shots are strictly prohibited in competitive battles. The enforcement team of the Great Soul Arena is not to be trifled with."
As he spoke, he suddenly regretted bringing this battle maniac along.
"Understood." Chu Xinghe's answer was crisp and clear, but his slightly trembling fingers and rapid breathing betrayed his inner excitement.
Zhao Tiezhu sighed inwardly; this kid probably couldn't wait to jump onto the ring right now.
He watched with a pounding heart, feeling that his little brother Xinghe might do something outrageous at any moment.
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 34 / 25013.6%Next Prev
Ch. 35 / 25014%Next
WebAI [Beta]
#35
Chapter 35 Zhang San vs. Xiao Huohuo
"Ladies and gentlemen!"
The host's voice echoed through the arena, "The next two contestants are both powerful one-ring Soul Masters!"
"Blue team player: Zhang San, who possesses the plant-type martial soul 'Green Vine'! Red team player: Xiao Huohuo, who possesses the beast martial soul 'Crimson Fire Wolf'!"
"In this battle between wood and fire, who will emerge victorious? Let's wait and see!"
Chu Xinghe's gaze shifted between the two ends of the arena.
On the left, Zhang San was thin as bamboo, his dark panel covered with fine wrinkles, and his narrow eyes gleamed with a sinister light.
On the right, Xiao Huohuo resembled a burning flame, with bulging muscles beneath his bronze skin, short, crimson hair standing on end, and flames flickering around him.
"Xiao Huohuo, I heard that your first soul skill, Fire Lotus Explosion, can burn through iron plates?" Zhang San narrowed his long eyes, a sinister smile playing on his lips, his fingers lightly rubbing against his sleeve, as if he were plotting something.
"Don't burn my little darlings later... otherwise, you might regret it."
Xiao Huohuo crossed his arms, his crimson soul power flowing around him like flames. He stared intently at Zhang San, his voice loud and clear: "Stop talking! If you're going to fight, fight fair and square, don't resort to those underhanded tricks!"
Zhang San chuckled softly, a sinister glint flashing in his eyes. His sleeve trembled slightly, and a few strands of green vines quietly emerged.
"Despicable tactics? Ha... Any tactic that can win is a good tactic."
"Battle Spirit - Begin!" The referee gave the order and swung his arm down sharply.
Without hesitation, Xiao Huohuo clenched his fists, flames surged around him, and he roared, "Crimson Flame Wolf, Possess Me!"
His hands instantly transformed into sharp wolf claws, with blazing flames coiling around his fingertips. With a sudden stomp of his foot, he charged straight at Zhang San like a ferocious beast!
Zhang San remained calm and composed, a sinister smile playing on his lips. He stepped back slightly, and a strange green light emanated from his palm.
"Green Vine, appear!"
In an instant, several dark blue vines shot out from the ground like venomous snakes, silently wrapping around Xiao Huohuo's ankles at an extremely tricky angle!
"Burn your broken vines!" Xiao Huohuo shouted coldly, his wolf claws sweeping across, flames engulfing everything.
However, the vines were only charred on the surface and were not completely burned.
Zhang San's martial spirit actually has extremely strong resistance to fire!
Although the vines were not broken, Xiao Huohuo's momentum was slightly slowed down.
A glint flashed in Zhang San's eyes, and his white spirit ring suddenly lit up as he said in a sinister voice, "First Spirit Skill—Entanglement!"
The three thick main vines suddenly tightened, binding Xiao Huohuo's right arm and waist like venomous pythons. The sharp thorns on the vines quietly seeped into the panel, and the paralyzing toxins spread rapidly!
"Despicable!" Xiao Huohuo's right arm went numb, and his movements became noticeably sluggish, but his fighting spirit remained undiminished. His soul power exploded, and the flames on his wolf claws surged once more!
The vines sizzled as they were burned, yet they remained firmly attached.
The arena was filled with the smoke of battle.
Zhang San smiled slyly and flicked his sleeve, a packet of lime powder sliding from his cuff into his palm.
Taking advantage of the moment when Xiao Huohuo was entangled by the vines, he suddenly raised his hand and let go!
"Take this!"
White powder filled the air, catching Xiao Huohuo off guard, and his vision was suddenly filled with white.
A burning, stinging sensation came from his eyes, and he groaned, forced to stop his attack.
"Hahaha!" Zhang San laughed triumphantly, and his Green Vine Martial Soul lit up once more. "First Soul Skill, Entanglement!"
Several vines took the opportunity to wrap around Xiao Huohuo's legs, firmly fixing him in place.
An uproar erupted in the audience.
"That's despicable!"
"They actually resorted to such despicable tactics!"
Xiao Huohuo stood still, his eyes closed.
The burning lime caused cold sweat to bead on his forehead, but he still kept his back straight.
Zhang San approached with a sinister grin: "Admit defeat, you're blind now."
"Is that so?" Xiao Huohuo suddenly smiled slightly.
Zhang San's heart tightened, and before he could react, he saw Xiao Huohuo stomp her foot suddenly.
A burst of intense soul power erupted from his body, shattering all the vines wrapped around his legs!
"What?!" Zhang San was shocked.
"You think I can't find you just because you close your eyes?" Xiao Huohuo's voice was icy. "Smell is a wolf's most acute sense. I can smell your stench from ten meters away."
Having said that, crimson soul power condensed in his palm, gradually forming an exquisite fire lotus.
"First Soul Skill, Fire Lotus Burst!"
The fire lotus flew out of his hand and flew precisely towards Zhang San.
Zhang San tried to dodge in haste, but found that the fire lotus suddenly split into three in mid-air and attacked from different angles!
"Boom! Boom! Boom!"
Three explosions rang out almost simultaneously.
Zhang San was thrown into the air by the blast wave and crashed heavily onto the edge of the ring.
He struggled to get up, only to see Xiao Huohuo burst through the smoke and dust, his wolf claws, burning with flames, stopping in front of his nose.
"I admit defeat," Xiao Huohuo said coldly, his eyes still closed, but his imposing manner remained undiminished.
Zhang San's face turned deathly pale, and he finally managed to squeeze out two words through gritted teeth: "...I admit defeat."
The referee loudly announced: "Xiao Huohuo wins!"
A deafening cheer erupted from the audience.
Xiao Huohuo slowly opened her eyes. Although they were still a little red, she could see.
Without even glancing at Zhang San, who was slumped on the ground, he turned and jumped off the stage, leaving the audience with a tall and imposing figure.
Zhang San clutched his chest, his face grim, a hint of resentment flashing in his eyes, and muttered under his breath, "Heh... next time, it won't be so simple."
...
The audience seats.
"How's it going?" Zhao Tiezhu nudged Chu Xinghe, who was engrossed in watching, with his elbow. "Did you figure anything out?"
Chu Xinghe's gaze remained fixed on Xiao Huohuo's departing figure, a thoughtful glint in his eyes: "Zhang San's martial spirit is quite unique, those vines..."
"Fire resistance, right?" Zhao Tiezhu chimed in, a rare seriousness appearing on his rugged face. "That's no ordinary vine. See those bluish thorns on the vine? Getting them on you will numb your nerves."
Chu Xinghe nodded thoughtfully: "Xiao Huohuo's last move was brilliant; closing her eyes actually..."
"They actually played even better?" Zhao Tiezhu suddenly lowered his voice. "Brother Xinghe, that's not the point."
He pointed to his temple. "That guy's composure under pressure is what you should learn."
The noise in the arena gradually subsided, and staff were cleaning up the vine debris on the ring.
Chu Xinghe noticed that several charred vines were still wriggling slightly, and frowned: "If it were me..."
"What would you do?" Zhao Tiezhu suddenly became interested and turned to face him. "Tell me."
Chu Xinghe pondered for a moment: "I will first test the vines' weaknesses, such as..."
He gestured with his fingers on his knee, "Concentrate the flames to attack the base."
Zhao Tiezhu suddenly burst into laughter, drawing stares from the surrounding audience: "Good lad!"
He patted Chu Xinghe on the shoulder heavily, "But you missed one thing."
The laughter stopped abruptly, and his eyes sharpened. "That Zhang San, his left hand was hidden in his sleeve the whole time."
Chu Xinghe was taken aback.
"Did you see what he put in his mouth when he left?" Zhao Tiezhu sneered. "I bet it was the antidote. His poison... I'm afraid even he himself is afraid of it."
These words sent a chill down Chu Xinghe's spine.
He suddenly understood the deeper meaning behind Zhao Tiezhu's decision to take him to watch the game.
The dangers of the Great Soul Arena are often hidden in the most inconspicuous details.
"Remember this." Zhao Tiezhu stood up, his shadow looming over Chu Xinghe. "Here, those who survive aren't necessarily the strongest…"
He pointed to his eyes, "but rather, the ones that observe most carefully."
The bell for the next match rang in the distance. Chu Xinghe touched the Iron Fighting Spirit badge on his chest, the coolness of the metal completely calming him down.
Chu Xinghe then observed three more matches.
As the matches unfolded, his expression gradually shifted from shock to seriousness.
The rules of combat here are completely different from those in the academy; there is no elegance in stopping short of a fight, only ruthless life-or-death struggle.
In the second match, a water-type soul master suddenly sprang into action the moment he conceded defeat, his hidden ice spike aimed straight for his opponent's throat.
In the third match, the female Soul Master used her beauty to seduce her opponent, taking advantage of Miyazaki Hidetaka's opportunity.
"Now you understand?" Zhao Tiezhu's voice sounded particularly deep amidst the noise. "Here, survival is more important than winning."
He pointed to the ropes around the ring, still stained with blood, and said, "Zhang San's skills aren't even up to the basics."
Chu Xinghe unconsciously clenched his fist.
He noticed that each winner would look around warily as they left the stage.
When the loser is carried off the field, there are always teammates on guard the whole time.
Beneath the glittering surface of this magnificent arena, a more dangerous undercurrent than soul skills surges.
...
The registration area for the Grand Arena.
Chu Xinghe stroked the brand-new Iron Battle Soul Badge. He looked up at the Soul Guidance Clock hanging high in the Battle Arena. There were still three hours until the afternoon's duel.
"Have you decided?" Zhao Tiezhu's thick arm rested on the railing of the stands.
"How can Agumon's partner be afraid of battle?" Chu Xinghe's fingertips ignited a cluster of soul power, and the faint phantom of a Digimon appeared.
Zhao Tiezhu suddenly burst into laughter, startling the dozing audience members next to him.
"Good! That's more like the brother Zhao Tiezhu deserves!" He patted Chu Xinghe heavily on the back with his large, fan-like hand. "Come on, let me take you to try the most authentic soft-boned rabbit in Hope City!"
Problematic ad?Report it here
Prev
Ch. 35 / 25014%Next