Chapter 16: Moving into the Dragon Phoenix Residence (Seeking collection, recommendation votes, and monthly passes!)
The Royal Fighting Team's accommodation was different from that of regular students. Their dormitory was located beside Swan Lake inside the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, where a row of villas sat by the lake, offering beautiful scenery and pleasant surroundings.
Moreover, the villa was quite large, with a floor area of over six hundred square meters, not including the private two-hundred-square-meter swimming pool and three-hundred-square-meter yard.
The villa had four floors. The first floor was for daily living, cooking, receiving guests, and recreation.
The second floor contained the sleeping quarters, totaling eight rooms. Now, including Gu Xuan, they could all fit perfectly.
The third and fourth floors were dedicated Simulated Cultivation Grounds specially constructed for each of them, provided for their daily Cultivation use.
This was the treatment received by the Royal Fighting Team, the treatment reserved for Geniuses. As long as your talent was high enough, or you worked hard enough, you would continuously enjoy special treatment that others could only dream of.
In the villa's yard, there was also an eighty-meter diameter Spirit Fighting Stage and various training equipment, allowing them to conduct all kinds of training without ever leaving the house.
When Dugu Yan brought Gu Xuan here after completing his campus card and student card procedures, he couldn't help but marvel at the Heaven Dou Royal Academy's grand gesture.
Although only the Royal Fighting Team enjoyed this special treatment, creating such a massive and perfect residence required significant funding.
After all, their Royal Fighting Team residence, though small like a sparrow, possessed all the vital organs, meaning it had everything they needed.
This villa of theirs also had a name, called the Dragon Phoenix Residence, symbolizing that those who lived here could transform into a Dragon and a Phoenix, ensuring a smooth path ahead.
Gu Xuan didn't mind the name, as the Heaven Dou Royal Academy had invested so much capital into nurturing them, naturally hoping they would achieve great success and a bright future.
The layout of the eight rooms on the second floor was identical, so there was no concept of one room being better than another. However, because the seven members of the Royal Fighting Team were not very familiar with each other initially, the rooms were chosen to separate males and females.
Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling chose one side, while Yu Tianheng and the others were on the opposite side.
The room layout on the second floor was as follows: the rooms were arranged left and right, with three rooms on the left—two facing each other and one adjacent.
On the right were five rooms—four facing each other in pairs, and one adjacent. In the middle, separating the two sides, was a huge lounge, or rather, a tearoom.
They could drink tea, enjoy food, watch the sunset, and admire the beautiful Swan Lake here, as the room featured a huge balcony directly facing Swan Lake. They had a clear view of the sun rising in the east and setting in the west, allowing them to enjoy the scenery every day.
The reason for this room arrangement was gender segregation. Although they were classmates and teammates, they were strangers when they first came together, so shyness was inevitable, hence the layout.
This arrangement was also made because the number of female Spirit Masters was lower than male Spirit Masters, so there was one fewer room designated for girls. Unexpectedly, this benefited Gu Xuan.
Gu Xuan was eager for such an opportunity to be closer to Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling, after all, the pavilion closest to the water enjoys the moonlight first.
As for Dugu Yan now, it didn't matter even if Gu Xuan lived right next door; she was no longer the naive young girl she once was.
Under Yu Tianheng's guidance over two years, Dugu Yan had basically recovered her ability to socialize and was no longer "socially anxious."
Ye Lingling was actually indifferent to all this, as long as it didn't affect her.
Besides, Gu Xuan was quite handsome—at least the most handsome boy she had ever seen. Compared to having anyone else move in, she preferred Gu Xuan.
After all, while handsomeness couldn't be eaten as food, it was certainly pleasing to the eye.
Arriving at the Dragon Phoenix Residence, Yu Tianheng and the others had not yet returned; they had gone to the academy store to buy things.
According to Yu Tianheng, since Gu Xuan had just joined the team, they should celebrate properly.
Although Teacher Qin Ming had already treated them to a meal, that was Teacher Qin Ming's gesture, and the guys hadn't made their own gesture yet.
It must be said that Yu Tianheng, as one of the heirs of the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Sect, was very skilled at winning people over.
If this had been done for anyone else, they would probably be moved to tears.
Dugu Yan brought Gu Xuan back to the Dragon Phoenix Residence. As soon as he entered the door, Gu Xuan felt the magnificent and grandiose scent of money. It must be said that the Royal Fighting Team's villa was truly outstanding.
Dugu Yan introduced the environment to Gu Xuan and explained what they usually did in different parts of the residence, allowing Gu Xuan to quickly understand and integrate.
It must be said that spending time alone together is always one of the fastest ways for a boy and a girl to deepen their relationship. At this point, Gu Xuan no longer called Dugu Yan "Senior Sister" but instead called her "Sister Yan."
Although it was only a one-character change in address, the increase in intimacy was not so simple.
Of course, Dugu Yan wasn't someone who couldn't walk straight upon seeing a handsome man. The main reason was that Gu Xuan had a sweet mouth; his words touched her heart. She felt very comfortable interacting with Gu Xuan, and naturally, their relationship became closer.
However, they had only just met today, and things needed to progress step by step. Gu Xuan wasn't anxious; at least he had a good start.
Dugu Yan was not yet together with Yu Tianheng, and this was Gu Xuan's biggest opportunity.
If he couldn't seize it, that would be his own problem.
Soon, Dugu Yan finished showing Gu Xuan around the entire villa. His personal Simulated Cultivation Ground had not yet been constructed, but Qin Ming had already reported it, and it would take about half a month to complete.
Before then, Gu Xuan could share a Simulated Cultivation Ground with Yu Tianheng, as both of their Spirits were Dragons—one being the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon and the other the Bone Dragon.
Dugu Yan then brought Gu Xuan to his room, which was right next to hers. Dugu Yan had already mentioned this to him earlier.
Entering the room, the facilities were all fully equipped, even including some exercise equipment. This room was somewhat similar to a presidential suite from Gu Xuan's previous life; it had everything except a kitchen.
"Little Xuan, we're neighbors now, so remember to share any good things with me first, okay?" Dugu Yan said, smiling lightly at Gu Xuan.
Gu Xuan jokingly cupped his hands toward Dugu Yan, replying in the posture of a junior: "Sister Yan commands, and I dare not disobey!"
"Pfft!" Dugu Yan covered her mouth and chuckled softly: "Stop fooling around!"
She then continued: "Alright, you're familiar with the area now. Go ahead and unpack. Tianheng and the others should be back soon."
Gu Xuan was indifferent to Dugu Yan's way of addressing Yu Tianheng, as Yu Tianheng was currently her very good friend.
Gu Xuan nodded and replied: "Mm, alright. Thank you for your hard work today, Sister Yan. Next time, your little brother will take you out to have some fun."
Dugu Yan smiled and nodded: "That sounds great. You're so interesting, it must be fun to be with you."
Dugu Yan meant this sincerely, as she had gone out alone with Yu Tianheng before, but that guy... how should she put it... he was the type who dated honestly and stiffly. Dugu Yan wasn't very interested in the things he took her to do.
After speaking, Dugu Yan left Gu Xuan's room. Having walked all afternoon, she was sweaty and needed a wash.
PS: Typos will be corrected after posting.Chapter 17: Training (Seeking collections, recommendation tickets, monthly passes!)
After Dugu Yan left, Gu Xuan directly took out his daily necessities and some clothes from his spirit tool, as the room had already been cleaned, so Gu Xuan didn't need to do it.
After arranging his belongings, Gu Xuan directly entered the bathroom. Each room had an independent bathroom with a large bathtub inside.
After filling the tub with water, Gu Xuan directly jumped in and began to enjoy himself.
Gu Xuan was like this: when training, he could be meticulous, but when enjoying himself, he could also be completely uninhibited.
After soaking for half an hour, Gu Xuan slowly got up, wiped the water from his body, and then changed into a set of white casual clothes, somewhat resembling a long gown-style pajama.
White was the color Gu Xuan chose to wear when resting; normally, he wore a black combat suit just like his grandfather.
With his spirit power circulating, his hair was blown dry, and his long black hair was tied into a short ponytail with a hair tie. Gu Xuan opened the door and walked into the lounge next door.
At this moment, Dugu Yan was sitting cross-legged on a snow-white fur sofa, her emerald green shoulder-length hair still a bit damp, holding a glass of juice, watching the afterglow of the sunset.
The others had not yet returned.
Hearing the movement, Dugu Yan turned her head to look. When she saw Gu Xuan, her eyes lit up, and her Adam's apple couldn't help but move, because he was too handsome.
The afterglow of the sunset streamed in, and Gu Xuan was perfectly bathed in the reddish light, adding a few points of charm to his white attire. His grey-black pupils emitted a crystalline spiritual glow as he smiled at Dugu Yan.
"Sister Yan, have Tianheng and the others not returned yet?" Gu Xuan asked softly.
Gu Xuan didn't call him 'Senior Brother' because it had already been discussed at the dinner table earlier. Spirit Masters respected strength, and Gu Xuan had now become the undisputed strongest among them, so there was no need to be so formal; calling them by name was fine.
Gu Xuan was naturally happy to do so, so he directly addressed them by name, oh, except for Dugu Yan.
As Gu Xuan said this, he had already sat down on the leather sofa next to Dugu Yan, actively picked up a glass of juice, and gently clinked it with Dugu Yan's cup.
Dugu Yan took a sip of her juice and replied, "They should be back soon."
"Click!" Just as Dugu Yan's voice fell, the lock on the second-floor door was opened.
Yu Tianheng, Oscar, and the others walked in. They didn't go into their rooms but came directly to the lounge.
When Oscar walked over and saw Gu Xuan and Dugu Yan sitting close together, drinking juice, he couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, a meaningful smile appearing on his face.
"Sister Yan, why did you two start drinking first? Quick, give me a cup, I'm dying of thirst," Oscar shamelessly chimed in.
Gu Xuan smiled slightly at him and said, "You have hands, get it yourself."
There was no politeness, but Oscar wasn't angry, because Gu Xuan's tone was clearly playful.
Oscar chuckled and replied, "Get it myself then."
With that, Oscar directly snatched the juice from Gu Xuan's hand, because there were only two glasses of juice here.
One was in Dugu Yan's hand, and one was in Gu Xuan's hand, and Gu Xuan hadn't even taken a sip of his yet.
After snatching the juice, Oscar immediately fled behind Shi Mo and Shi Gao, happily drinking it.
Gu Xuan smiled helplessly, thinking to himself, "It seems I really need to properly Cultivate this kid's etiquette."
Yu Tianheng also smiled at this scene; it was naturally best for a team to get along so harmoniously.
"Gu Xuan, from today onwards, you are also a member of our Royal Fighting Team. I warmly welcome your joining," Yu Tianheng said solemnly to Gu Xuan.
The others also looked over at this time and chimed in.
"That's right, Gu Xuan, from now on we're brothers in one team. Don't forget us if you find anything good."
It was Oscar who said this, that kid was still drinking the juice he snatched from Gu Xuan.
Gu Xuan also smiled slightly, not refuting anything.
Then Yu Tianheng took out the items they had purchased that afternoon from his spirit tool.
All kinds of snacks, delicacies, melon seeds, and drinks were available, completely filling the large long table in the middle of the lounge.
Yu Tianheng said, "Tonight we won't do anything else, we'll just chat, eat, drink, and have a heart-to-heart."
"Okay!" Oscar immediately jumped up.
But no one paid attention to him now.
Ye Lingling came over to Dugu Yan, and the two girls sat closely together on a sofa.
Then everyone started eating and chatting. Among them, Gu Xuan's special attention was naturally on Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling.
Dugu Yan was fine, Gu Xuan had been chatting and laughing with her, but Ye Lingling was different, because her personality was indeed somewhat cold, not just towards Gu Xuan, but towards everyone.
During the chat, Gu Xuan occasionally probed Ye Lingling's background and family environment, intending to understand her more, so that he would have a better chance of 'conquering' her in the future.
It wasn't until eleven at night that everyone dispersed. Yu Tianheng and the others returned to their simulated Cultivation grounds to Cultivate, while Gu Xuan stayed behind to clean up.
The others originally wanted to stay and help clean, but Gu Xuan told them all to scram. Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling also didn't stay, both going off to Cultivate.
It wasn't that Gu Xuan was deliberately pretending to be a good person, but rather that he genuinely couldn't stand his living space being too dirty or messy.
After spending half an hour cleaning up, Gu Xuan returned to his room to Cultivate. He didn't have a simulated Cultivation ground yet and didn't want to disturb Yu Tianheng at the moment, so he simply returned to his own room.
The next morning, Gu Xuan was in good spirits. He had already woken up at six o'clock to exercise. He went to the courtyard, where there were various training equipment around. Gu Xuan chose a pair of twenty-kilogram sandbags and ten-kilogram sandbags, tying them to his wrists and ankles respectively, and put on a thirty-kilogram weighted vest. Gu Xuan began his training.
One hundred push-ups, one hundred sit-ups, one hundred pull-ups, one hundred burpees, and twenty full-speed one-hundred-meter sprints.
These were Gu Xuan's usual training routines, but as he Broke through the level 30 Bottleneck and absorbed his third spirit ring, these were no longer as difficult for him.
A total of ninety kilograms of weight all over his body was actually a lot of pressure for him, because he had to do these exercises while wearing the weights.
This was also one of the reasons why Gu Xuan had such a good physique.
Gu Xuan trained for about ten minutes when Yu Tianheng also appeared in the courtyard. When he saw Gu Xuan, he was first stunned, then shook his head with a bitter smile.
There was a reason why Gu Xuan was so powerful; at the very least, this diligence was something Yu Tianheng couldn't compare to.
Yu Tianheng did not disturb Gu Xuan's training. After glancing at Gu Xuan's weights, Yu Tianheng himself began training in a similar manner.
Around seven o'clock, Shi Mo, Shi Gao, Yu Feng, Oscar, Dugu Yan, and Ye Lingling also came out. Seeing Gu Xuan and Yu Tianheng training, they hesitated for a moment, then joined the training.
Seeing that everyone had arrived, Gu Xuan thought for a moment and then said directly, "Since everyone's here, I'll lead your training."
Everyone didn't refute this, because Gu Xuan's strength was evident, but when they saw the weights on Gu Xuan, they were all stunned.
Such heavy weights?Chapter 18: Qin Ming Explodes (Seeking collections, recommendation votes, and monthly tickets!)
Led by Gu Xuan, the group slowly began their training. Although they trained regularly, this was the first time they had undergone training with nearly two hundred catties of weighted gear first thing in the morning, like Gu Xuan.
Because this was terrifying.
They were not as monstrous as Gu Xuan; even Yu Tianheng's weighted gear was only a hundred catties.
Ye Lingling, being from the support system, only had thirty catties of weighted gear.
It should be noted that Ye Lingling previously trained without weights, and suddenly starting with thirty catties caught her off guard.
The group followed Gu Xuan, performing weighted training: push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, burpees... They did several sets of various exercises. Even though they were all Spirit Elders, they were temporarily overwhelmed.
This was because Gu Xuan did not allow them to use their Spirit or spirit power during the training, relying purely on physical fitness to complete the tasks.
By eight o'clock, the two girls, Ye Lingling and Dugu Yan, were exhausted. Even Yu Tianheng and the brothers Shi Mo and Shi Gao were slightly out of breath.
Not only could they not use their Spirit, but they couldn't use their spirit power either?
Although they usually had similar training, compared to the intensity of Gu Xuan's current regimen, their previous rock-carrying exercises felt as simple as playing house.
"Little Xuan, you're too amazing, aren't you? Why do I feel like you're completely fine?" Dugu Yan couldn't help but ask, looking at Gu Xuan, who was only slightly sweating.
It wasn't just Dugu Yan who thought this; everyone else did too. Gu Xuan had arrived at six o'clock, meaning his training time was twice theirs. Although it was clear Gu Xuan was giving his all toward the end, he showed no signs of fatigue, only minimal sweating.
And them? Every one of them had sore muscles, feeling as if they were about to die.
Gu Xuan wiped the sweat from his forehead and smiled, saying, "It's alright. This amount of training is just a warm-up. I guarantee that as long as you can stick with me, and combined with my method, every one of you will be able to achieve Absorbing a spirit ring across tiers."
Hearing this, the previously lifeless group recovered a little bit of their smiles. As long as the effort was worthwhile, there was hope.
"You guys rest for a bit. I'm going to take a shower." Gu Xuan said no more, left the courtyard, and returned to his room.
Thirty minutes later, Gu Xuan changed into a golden-yellow team uniform. This was the specialized attire of the Royal Fighting Team, and a symbol of status.
With this uniform, one could enjoy the highest standard of student treatment within the academy.
Gu Xuan had already washed up, but the others hadn't. Glancing at the empty hall, Gu Xuan thought for a moment, then headed straight for the cafeteria.
Arriving at a breakfast shop, Gu Xuan said to the owner, "Master, one chicken leg, two eggs, a bowl of millet porridge, a cup of soy milk, and one bun."
After thinking for a moment, Gu Xuan continued, "Make that eight servings."
"Alright!" the owner replied, immediately starting to pack the food for Gu Xuan.
Looking at Gu Xuan's uniform, the owner asked doubtfully, "Young man, I haven't seen you in the Royal Fighting Team before. Did you just join?"
Gu Xuan smiled and replied, "Yes, I just joined the Royal Fighting Team yesterday."
"Hahaha, you're quite good, young man! No one has been able to join the Royal Fighting Team's First Squad for several years. From now on, when you come here, Master will give you a fifty percent discount." The Master said, chuckling heartily while packing the food for Gu Xuan.
"No, no, no. I can't accept a reward without merit. My student card already gives me a thirty percent discount. Master, if you do this, I won't dare come back in the future." Gu Xuan immediately waved his hand and replied.
The Master chuckled and replied, "Young man, you don't know this, but the academy needs diligent and motivated students like you these days. Talent is important, but perseverance is even more so. Seeing you juniors work hard, this little bit of help from me is nothing."
While the Master was speaking, Gu Xuan specifically sized him up and realized that this Master was actually a Spirit Ancestor?
A Spirit Ancestor working here as a chef?
Gu Xuan was quite curious about the Master's identity, but he only wondered briefly and didn't ask further. After the Master finished packing the items, Gu Xuan paid and left.
As he left, he said thank you.
Originally, this meal should have cost ten silver coins, but the Master only charged five.
Don't think that a few eggs and chicken legs costing ten silver coins is expensive. These eggs came from a Ten-year Spirit Beast, the Rainbow Chicken, and the chicken legs came from a Ten-year Spirit Beast, the Three-legged Chicken. Their nutritional value far exceeded that of ordinary eggs and chicken legs.
Even the millet in the millet porridge was Soul Light Rice, which could subtly modify physical strength. It could be said that there was hardly any ordinary food in the Heaven Dou Royal Academy cafeteria; at the very least, they were items that ordinary people could not afford.
Gu Xuan returned with the breakfast just as the others had finished washing up and were preparing to head to the cafeteria to eat.
"No need to go. I brought breakfast for you here." Gu Xuan placed the breakfast on the table, took a serving for himself, and started eating.
"Wow, Gu Xuan, you're the best! That earlier training consumed most of my energy. Now this is great, I don't have to go out to eat breakfast." Oscar immediately let out a strange cry, grabbed a serving, and started eating.
Oscar's personality was like this: completely unconcerned with his image around familiar people, even acting goofy.
But when dealing with outsiders, he was the type to go straight up and mock them to draw hatred, the kind that could drive people mad.
Because of the morning training, everyone was hungry. Even Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling started devouring their food.
Girls have small stomachs and eat little?
Nonsense. After consuming a chicken leg, two eggs, a bowl of millet porridge, a cup of soy milk, and a bun, their stomachs didn't even bulge.
Of course, this was also related to them being Spirit Masters, as the energy consumption of a Spirit Master is far greater than that of an ordinary person.
It was already nine o'clock after breakfast. Today was Tuesday, but they no longer needed to attend theory classes, so they went to the training hall for practice.
Qin Ming was already waiting there early. Seeing the group arrive, he said with a grim expression, "Class starts at nine o'clock. Look at what time it is now?"
Oscar couldn't help but reply, "Isn't it only nine twelve?"
Qin Ming immediately glared coldly at him: "Oscar!"
"Here!" Oscar shuddered, seemingly realizing that the situation was bad.
"Do you think you have an excuse for being late?" Qin Ming's voice was cold, completely lacking the warmth he had shown at the dinner table yesterday.
"No!" How could Oscar dare to refute him now? He replied stiffly.
At the same time, Oscar wanted to slap himself. Why did he have to open his mouth when it wasn't necessary? Now he was the one taking the fall.
"I'm telling you, if you act like this, you might be the first ones to die on the battlefield! You have no concept of time! Do you still think this is your home?" Qin Ming stared at Oscar, but his words were directed at everyone.
"Oscar, go run ten laps around the field!" Qin Ming continued.
"Ah!" Oscar's mournful cry sounded again.
At this moment, Qin Ming's gaze turned cold again. Just as he was about to erupt, Gu Xuan stepped forward and said to Qin Ming, "Teacher Qin, the lateness today was actually all because of me. Don't blame Oscar."
Qin Ming's gaze shifted to Gu Xuan, and his expression softened slightly. He asked, "Why?"
Gu Xuan explained, "Oscar was already up at seven o'clock. I was the one who pulled them into training, and I didn't control the volume well, making them exhausted, which is why we were late."
"But Teacher Qin, please rest assured, this will absolutely not happen again."
Hearing this, Qin Ming looked at the others, and they all nodded in agreement.
Qin Ming was silent for a moment, then said, "Since there was a reason, Oscar, your punishment is waived. However, I do not want this to happen again."
"Yes!"
The group replied in unison.
In truth, this was a show of authority, or rather, Qin Ming warning them—it wasn't directed at any one person, but at all of them.
Of course, part of it was certainly to temper Oscar's character. Gu Xuan was an old hand in his previous life, so he could see this clearlyChapter 19: Shi Mo vs. Oscar (Please collect, please recommend, please vote monthly!)
Qin Ming finished his outburst and began today's training content.
Actual combat training didn't have too many frills; it was straight to the real deal from the start.
"First match, Shi Mo versus Oscar," Qin Ming said indifferently.
The Royal Fighting Team's actual combat training opponents were decided by drawing lots. Even if they encountered an opponent who completely countered them, it was still the same, because in a Spirit Master's battle, who can guarantee that their opponent will always be someone they counter?
Therefore, engaging in Spirit battles with any opponent has become their norm. Although Oscar has almost never won against Shi Mo, he will not give up.
At this moment, only Shi Mo and Oscar remained on the Spirit Fighting Stage, while the others watched, summarizing the strengths and weaknesses of both.
On the Spirit Fighting Stage, Shi Mo and Oscar stood facing each other.
"Shi Mo, Spirit: Black Tortoise, a Level 36 defense-type Battle Spirit Elder. Please begin." Shi Mo, with a straight nose and square mouth, spoke calmly.
As his voice fell, two yellow and one purple spirit rings slowly rose from his body, and a massive jade-green tortoise shell appeared, covering Shi Mo's torso, leaving only his limbs and head exposed.
This was Shi Mo's Black Tortoise Spirit. And with his Spirit attached, he didn't appear short or as awkward as a turtle. On the contrary, his height increased by several points, making him appear more robust and muscular. His exposed limbs were strong and powerful, as if containing immense strength, and the jade-green tortoise shell greatly increased his defense.
Black Tortoise, as its name suggests, this Spirit possesses the Bloodline of the Black Tortoise, and it's not weak. Although the original work didn't mention the Bloodline of this Spirit, it did state that this Spirit was an existence no weaker than the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Spirit, which already proves the power of this Spirit.
Even without using Spirit Abilities after his Spirit attachment, Shi Mo's defense was greatly enhanced, at least not something Oscar could easily break through.
Although Oscar felt a bit helpless, his Battle Intent was also burning fiercely. Qin Ming's teaching philosophy was very simple: as a Spirit Master, never avoid battle at any time. The most important thing for a Spirit Master is to have courage.
"Oscar, Spirit: Ghost Leopard, a Level 36 agility-attack system Battle Spirit Elder. Please begin."
With his Spirit attached, Oscar's golden hair turned black, black fur grew on his body, his golden pupils became vertical like a feline's, and his entire person became more supple. He immediately crouched down, the muscles on his legs slightly bulging, capable of bursting out with astonishing speed.
Similarly, two yellow and one purple spirit rings swirled around his body. At this moment, Oscar had no fear. If it was a fight, then he would go all out.
Both had their Spirits attached, with the standard spirit ring configuration of two yellow and one purple.
However, Shi Mo, as a tank, made Oscar somewhat exasperated because he couldn't break through Shi Mo's turtle-like defense.
"First Spirit Ability: Leopard Shadow Ambush!"
Oscar's first spirit ring lit up first. Under the effect of his first Spirit Ability, his speed increased by fifty percent. As an agility-attack system Spirit Master, he directly transformed into a black shadow, circling Shi Mo, waiting for an opportunity.
Shi Mo's gaze slowly followed the movement of the black shadow. With his defensive power, he indeed wasn't afraid of Oscar's attacks, but it wasn't easy for him to catch Oscar either.
However, the two had, after all, fought countless times over nearly two years, and they were both well aware of each other's methods and attack styles.
Shi Mo grinned, directly charging in one direction. Oscar's speed was too fast, so Shi Mo's charge naturally couldn't hit Oscar.
When Shi Mo charged in one direction, Oscar had already arrived on the opposite side of Shi Mo.
However, this was Shi Mo's goal. When Oscar arrived on his opposite side, his first spirit ring lit up.
"First Spirit Ability: Shield Transformation!"
As the Spirit Ability was released, the tortoise shell on Shi Mo's body detached, transforming into a huge dark green tortoise shell shield, one and a half meters high and sixty centimeters wide.
This was Shi Mo's first Spirit Ability. This Spirit Ability could detach his tortoise shell and turn it into an offensive shield, while also increasing his strength by thirty percent.
But doing so would decrease his own defense, which was why Shi Mo wanted to get away from Oscar's encirclement.
At this moment, Oscar was opposite him, not circling him, which greatly reduced his threat.
As the first Spirit Ability was released, Shi Mo's second spirit ring also lit up.
"Second Spirit Ability: Black Tortoise Flying Shield!"
With the release of the second Spirit Ability, Shi Mo threw the shield in his hand directly at Oscar. His second Spirit Ability was to control the flying shield to attack, and he could also control the shield to form a long-range defensive effect.
However, the shield did not have a lock-on function; everything depended on Shi Mo's own control ability to determine the ultimate effect of this Spirit Ability.
Seeing this skill, Gu Xuan had been a little envious when he first heard the introduction, because this kind of skill was the easiest to produce surprising results.
If controlled properly and with sufficient spirit power, this single skill alone would be enough to make Shi Mo invincible.
In the Avengers, Yondu, who controlled his Yaka Arrow with a whistle, relied on a single Object Manipulation skill to wreak havoc. If Shi Mo could specialize in controlling the flying shield, not to the extent of Yondu, but at least he wouldn't injure his teammates with a flying shield as he did in the original work.
Thinking this, Gu Xuan felt that in the future, he could also train Shi Mo and Shi Gao's flying shield attack abilities, making them masters of both offense and defense.
However, the current Shi Mo did not yet have the ability to control it freely. The flying shield flew towards Oscar. Although his gaze was always locked on Oscar, Oscar would not stand there and let Shi Mo attack.
"Third Spirit Ability: Leopard Shadow Clone!"
Oscar's third purple spirit ring lit up, and he split into three. Two Leopard Shadow Clones, identical to his main body, appeared and ran in three directions.
His third Spirit Ability, Leopard Shadow Clone, could create two Clones identical to his main body, and the Clones also possessed thirty percent of the main body's attack power, which could be considered an extremely powerful Spirit Ability.
At the time, the most important thing was that Oscar could switch positions between himself and his Clones at any time when releasing the Spirit Ability. Although he could only switch once when releasing the Spirit Ability, this was enough to disrupt Shi Mo's vision.
Of course, if Oscar could switch positions between his main body and Clones at will, then this Spirit Ability would be worthy of being called a divine skill. However, it wasn't; he could only switch once, and only when releasing the Spirit Ability. Once the Spirit Ability was released, he no longer had this ability.
But this also made Shi Mo temporarily unable to decide which one to attack, because he wasn't sure which one was Oscar's main body. If Oscar stood still, Shi Mo could observe it, because the main body's Qi and Blood were far stronger than the Clones', but at this moment, Oscar's high-speed movement prevented Shi Mo from observing.
Helplessly, Shi Mo could only manipulate the flying shield back to his side for protection, to prevent Oscar's sudden attack.
Because the three Oscars had already surrounded Shi Mo from three directions.
At this time, Gu Xuan felt a bit helpless, because he found that people on the Douluo Continent seemed to only use Spirit Abilities as they were, and wouldn't think of developing them.
If Shi Mo were to control the flying shield to rotate at high speed around his body at this moment, would Oscar, an agility-attack system melee Spirit Master whose attack power was sharp but defense was low, still dare to attack?
A rapidly rotating shield could not only defend against attacks but also generate decent offensive capabilities. But Shi Mo instead directly held the shield in his hand, raising it like a living target.
I know your defense is amazing, but you don't have to keep defending, do you?
PS: Typos will be corrected after posting.Chapter 20: Gu Xuan vs. Shi Gao (Seeking collection, recommendation tickets, monthly tickets!)
The three Oscars were very fast, instantly forming a pincer attack and simultaneously striking at Shi Mo, who was holding a shield.
Facing three directions, Shi Mo could only defend the front, unable to manage the other two directions.
However, Shi Mo had fought Oscar countless times after all, and he knew what Oscar's next phase of attack would be like.
Simply put, when the three Oscars attack together, the two Clones would definitely rush to the front, and the main body would launch a sudden strike, attempting to land a fatal blow on Shi Mo.
Therefore, Shi Mo only needed to wait for Oscar's main body to reveal itself.
Although the Clones only possessed thirty percent of Oscar's main body's attack power, Shi Mo could withstand this level of attack relying solely on his physical defense, so Shi Mo planned to wait for Oscar to make his Move before counterattacking.
That's right, Shi Mo intended to use this method of forcibly taking the attacks to find Oscar's main body and then launch a wave of counterattacks.
This was actually the most common Move used by defense-system Spirit Masters, as their defensive power was astonishing, making this course of action perfectly reasonable.
However, Gu Xuan, who was watching the battle, felt somewhat exasperated, because he thought this was too foolish; it was practically turning himself into a living target.
It might be acceptable when facing an agility-attack system Spirit Master like Oscar, but what if he went against a Spirit Master like Gu Xuan, who could deliver a fatal blow? Wouldn't he instantly lose?
Even if he managed to defend in the end, wouldn't he still end up severely injured?
Of course, Gu Xuan did not possess the Clone Spirit Ability. If Shi Mo were to face Gu Xuan, he might not adopt this method of response. But in Gu Xuan's eyes, Shi Mo could have done better, because his Black Tortoise Flying Shield actually offered a lot of operational space, but Shi Mo simply hadn't utilized it.
Sure enough, the next moment, the three Oscars attacked together, their sharp claws simultaneously grasping toward Shi Mo from three directions: chest, waist, and back.
Shi Mo still did not Move, staring fixedly at the three Oscars and sensing their spirit power fluctuations.
When the three Oscars were less than two meters away from Shi Mo, the Oscar attacking from the back showed a surge of spirit power fluctuation on his body, and the second yellow spirit ring among the three lit up.
"Second Spirit Ability: Ghost Leopard Slash!"
Shi Mo sensed this intense spirit power fluctuation, and his second spirit ring shone again. He immediately flung his shield toward his back while rapidly retreating, attempting to evade the attacks of the two Clones.
"Oh?" Seeing this scene, Gu Xuan was slightly surprised. It seemed Shi Mo wasn't someone who only knew how to defend while standing still.
Oscar's main body's pair of sharp claws burst forth with cold light, releasing a one-meter-long slash, greatly increasing his attack power.
However, the shield Shi Mo threw instantly arrived in front of him, proactively blocking his Second Spirit Ability. Although the Black Tortoise Shield was struck and sent flying back, Shi Mo used the control of his Second Spirit Ability, the Black Tortoise Flying Shield, to immediately control the retreating shield to attack Oscar again.
At the same time, Shi Mo had already evaded the pincer attack of Oscar's Clones, but Oscar's main body and the two Clones once again assaulted Shi Mo together, their sharp claws aiming for vital points.
Shi Mo was greatly alarmed. He immediately controlled the Flying Shield to return. As the Flying Shield flew back, the purple third spirit ring on Shi Mo's body also lit up.
"Third Spirit Ability: Exploding Armor!"
As the Third Spirit Ability was released, the retreating Black Tortoise Flying Shield instantly burst apart. The resulting massive impact force and shield fragments directly destroyed Oscar's two Clones. Dozens of Black Tortoise Flying Shield fragments remained under Shi Mo's control, immediately enveloping Oscar.
Oscar was originally less than a meter away from Shi Mo, but the sudden Black Tortoise Flying Shield fragments instantly enveloped him. Shi Mo then channeled his spirit power to control the fragments, forming dozens of pieces into a spherical shape. Linked by spirit power, the sphere seemed to create a magnetic field, actually fixing Oscar's body in place.
With Oscar controlled, Shi Mo rushed forward. The one-meter distance closed instantly, and his massive fist struck Oscar's abdomen, sending him flying backward and off the Fighting Spirit Stage.
"Shi Mo wins!" Qin Ming announced the result calmly.
"Oscar, you showed some improvement this time, but it's not enough. Although Shi Mo is a defense-system Spirit Master, you still haven't fully utilized your speed as an agility-attack system Spirit Master." Qin Ming then began his critique.
After speaking about Oscar, Qin Ming looked at Shi Mo and said softly, "Shi Mo, your performance was good this time. The Spirit Power Field created by the Exploding Armor fragments allowed you to attack immediately after controlling Oscar. You did better in this regard than last time."
After critiquing the two, Qin Ming looked at the others and said, "Next match, Gu Xuan versus Shi Gao."
Shi Mo and Oscar left the stage to rest and recover their spirit power; Gu Xuan and Shi Gao entered the arena.
In fact, Gu Xuan had long wanted to enter the stage, as he really couldn't resist wanting to guide them. It wasn't that Qin Ming's teaching method was poor; on the contrary, compared to the more conventional teaching methods of other teachers, Qin Ming's approach was already quite good.
It was just that the people of the Douluo Continent seemed to be restricted. Even someone like Qin Ming, who was called a Genius in the original work, had never researched Self-Created Spirit Abilities. Even training was tailored to the characteristics of each Spirit Master without making any groundbreaking changes.
It wasn't that this was bad; this type of training could also greatly enhance a student's strengths in certain areas, but that was true for ordinary students.
Although Yu Tianheng, Shi Mo, and Shi Gao were not considered top-tier Geniuses, they were still far stronger than ordinary students. Conventional training methods, while effective, could not maximize the development of their potential.
Therefore, Gu Xuan wanted to properly develop them, and the prerequisite for doing so was possessing strength and ability that everyone could trust.
Gu Xuan's strength had already been displayed, but his ability had not, because it required time for them to see his capability.
Gu Xuan had demonstrated it when he enrolled yesterday, initially winning everyone's trust, but that wasn't enough. What Gu Xuan wanted was absolute authority.
Gu Xuan flipped and leaped onto the Fighting Spirit Stage, his movements dashing and handsome. He wasn't deliberately showing off; it was simply faster this way.
Shi Gao stood twenty meters opposite him, looking at him from afar, his Battle Intent burning fiercely in his eyes.
He had watched the Fighting Spirit match between Gu Xuan and Yu Tianheng yesterday with burning envy. Although he knew he might not be Gu Xuan's opponent, since even Yu Tianheng had lost to him, he still wanted to test the gap between himself and Gu Xuan.
"Shi Gao, Spirit: Black Tortoise, Level 35 defense-system Battle Spirit Elder. Please advise." Shi Gao spoke slowly. The Black Tortoise Spirit, identical to his older brother Shi Mo's, possessed him. Two yellow and one purple spirit rings rose and pulsed around his body.
Shi Gao's already burly frame was covered in a layer of thick, dark green Tortoise Shell, making him appear even more imposing.
However, Gu Xuan was already accustomed to Beast Spirit Masters undergoing Spirit possession and offered no comment.
Gu Xuan looked straight at Shi Gao, slowly stepping forward with his right foot. A yellow spirit ring smoothly rose on his body. He then continued with his left foot, and the second yellow spirit ring immediately rose. By the time Gu Xuan took the third step, two yellow and one purple spirit rings were circling and pulsing around his body.
A faint, silvery-white, film-like Spirit Power Shield attached itself to his body. His large, knobby hands transformed into a pair of Bone Claws that glittered with sharp, cold light. The Bone Claws were massive and domineering, seemingly capable of cutting through metal and jade with ease.
"Gu Xuan, Spirit: Bone Dragon, Level 33 attack system Battle Spirit Elder. Please."
Gu Xuan spoke calmly, his voice ringing out with a magnetic quality.
PS: Typos will be corrected after posting.