Chapter 198: Who's the disgusting one? 1 (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Under the effect of the Touch of Darkness, Zhou Weiqing's senses were increased to the max. In truth, being too close to their target may not always be a good thing for an archer, and many of Zhou Weiqing's archery skills actually required some distance to use. Without sufficient distance, there just wasn't the time and space to make use of many of the special effects and changes. However, in terms of raw power, a close distance was always brought it to the max.
Once again, the Overlord Bow's drawstring drawn to the max, and an even louder sound rang out against Lin TianAo's shield. Even such a powerful defense like his was shaken slightly, but the only effect of it was to cause the yellow light around the shield to brighten.
"Good arrow!" The one who exclaimed wasn't Lin TianAo, but instead the red-robed man who had been standing the the side watching the entire fight.
Anyone with a decent eye could clearly see how powerful the arrow was with that twisted drawstring method was. With Zhou Weiqing's strength, added to the double explosive power of the Overlord Bow and the unique archery method, its power could almost match that of Yun Li's full powered blow earlier. This was the power of archery.
Yun Li had already stealthily reached behind Lin TianAo, and he took action. Like a sleek feline, he bounded in, twisting his wrist as the sharp spike appeared once more in his hands. Flourishing the spike, a 'Double Compressed' – Compressed Spatial Cannon was once again used upon it, striking straight towards the dead center of Lin TianAo's back.
Zhou Weiqing did not stop firing all this time, as arrow after arrow streamed out in a steady flow, forming a line like a comet striking towards Lin TianAo.
Under such an explosive pincer attack, Lin TianAo was unable to move his shield to protect his back. After all, his greatest problem now was the restriction on using a single hand and being unable to move, causing him to not be able to use many of his powers. Without question, his choice not to move his shield was because he felt Zhou Weiqing's arrows posed a greater threat than Yun Li's attack, as such his main focus was in front.
A thick layer of bright yellow light rose forth from Lin TianAo at the instant before Yun Li's attack reached him, causing his body to seem to go through an immense change.
A dirt-like yellow coloured armor seemed to envelop Lin TianAo's entire body, and even the shield in his hand seemed to develop a rocky exterior, and a thick aura seemed to envelop him.
With a loud crashing sound, the Consolidated Sharp Spike slammed savagely into the yellow armor around him, cracking it and causing it to dissolve into yellow light. However, the cracked and broken portion was just a very tiny piece, and Lin TianAo still stood, unmoved.
"Rock Armour!" Yun Li cried out softly.
This Rock Armour was similar, but also way beyond the previous Stone Skin skill that Ma Qun had used in the past. The Stone Skin skill only had a four star rating, and could only come into its own from a three-jeweled cultivation level onwards. On the other hand, the Rock Armour had a nine star rating, and was one of the top defensive skills of the Stone Attributes. For a Heavenly Jewel Master like Lin TianAo who was already at the five-Jeweled level, coupled with his own natural tough defense, it made his body like a fortress!
What depressed Yun Li the most was that he could tell that the original Rock Armour shouldn't be this strong. After all, he was using his full strength with several Skills melded together along with his own Consolidated Equipment Weapon. However, the Rock Armour used was unleashed through his five-Jewel Assembly Set Equipment Shield. He did not know how much of a boost that had, but definitely it had boosted it more than his own Double Compression's effect.
That was to say, even if Lin TianAo just left his back open for Yun Li to launch attacks, he still wasn't able to damage him at all!
Damn, is this fellow really a five-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master? Even a Zong Stage Heavenly Master shouldn't be this tough!
At that point, Yun Li simply decided to stop attacking, staring at Lin TianAo with full concentration. At the same time, he started recovering his energy, preparing himself for another full-powered strike while awaiting Zhou Weiqing's signal. With him at the back, at least it would cause Lin TianAo to have to leave some focus on him. Furthermore, for the powerful Rock Armour to be unleashed from the Five-Jeweled Assembly Set Equipment Shield, it would likely have quite a large drain upon his energy reserves.
The Overlord Bow in Zhou Weiqing's hands displayed its insane firing rate. It was almost impossible to see how he actually fired the arrows, and the only thing that could be seen was the constant barrage of sounds and blinding lights puffing out on Lin TianAo's shield as the arrows streamed against it. Furthermore, such a continuous flow of attacks was not even very draining on Zhou Weiqing's Heavenly Energy, as he only needed to maintain the Consolidated Overlord Bow, while he was only depending on physical strength to fire the arrows. This was also one of the greatest advantages of him using the twisted bowstring archery method. At this point, as Zhou Weiqing was using that firing method, his Overlord Bow was constantly spinning quickly, causing it to seem like a misty illusive shield of his own.
As Lin TianAo blocked the constant barrage of arrows from Zhou Weiqing, he couldn't help but marvel to himself. By now, he had an even greater desire to win this bet. Originally, his target was only Yun Li, but now he found out that this three-Jeweled youth in front of him was even more interesting. In terms of competing Consolidating Equipment Masters, he had even fought to a draw with Yun Li, and his combat ability was even much greater! Although he could not totally see how the twisted bowstring archery method worked, but he could feel the power of the attacks he was taking. Furthermore, with Zhou Weiqing's firing rate, if he could get that little fellow as his Follower, it would be like having an artillery battery on his side in a battlefield. Although Lin TianAo's defense was extremely powerful, his attack capabilities, especially in terms of long ranged attacks, was extremely limited. Zhou Weiqing's archery skill could be even be called as being able to face a hundred just by himself, and if in collaboration with his own defensive capabilities, would allow Zhou Weiqing to fully unleash his full damage without any worry.
In Lin TianAo's mind, he was already thinking about how he and Zhou Weiqing would fight together on a battlefield. After all, although Zhou Weiqing's archery was extremely powerful, but its destructive explosive power was still lacking in comparison to his Demonic Right Leg, and could not possibly break through his shield easily.
If they were betting on Lin TianAo running out of Heavenly Energy, it would also be a mistake. Only Lin TianAo knew this secret. After all, a five-Jeweled Assembly Equipment should usually be extremely draining. However, his greatest advantage was that every time an additional Jewel was added to his Assembly Set Equipment, it would gain a special attribute, and one of the attributes added for his shield was actually to reduce to amount of Heavenly Energy used. This greatly reduced the drain on him, and also allowed him to sustain his top defense for a much longer time, as he was able to use some of his opponent's attacks as his own strength. As such, not to mention just the time for a single incense stick, even if it were two full hours, he could still maintain his top form.
As for Yun Li, unless he once again used his full attack, the Rock Armour was sufficient to block him. And at Yun Li's current condition, he was likely only able to unleash such a full powered attack once more. Lin TianAo had already thought his plan through – when Yun Li launched his full power attack, even if he had to take some damage, he still would not move. Furthermore, the Skills Socketed on his shield was not just the Rock Armour. Out of the five, two were supporting, and the other three were all fully defensive.
By now, the incense stick in the red-robed man's hands had already more than a third burned down, almost reaching the halfway point. Zhou Weiqing still continued firing arrows. Due to the spinning of the Overlord Bow, Lin TianAo was not able to see the expression on Zhou Weiqing's face.
In truth, what the rest did not know was that the reason why Zhou Weiqing was continuously firing arrows was because he was trying to come up with a plan. After all, with his Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewel, he had many more skills than most people. Furthermore, he had two sockets in his Overlord Bow to use them with. As such, he had many possible ways to deal with enemies, and he was trying to come up with the best way to overcome Lin TianAo.
All of a sudden, Zhou Weiqing's eyes lit up as an idea dawned upon him. The next instant, his next arrow suddenly changed.
As the arrow flew out, it arced with a beautiful silver light. The red robed man's eyes flashed in an interested cold light as he observed it. However, Lin TianAo did not notice it, after all he had been using his shield to block the attacks, but due to the size of the shield, it was also affecting his vision. Along with the sheer speed of Zhou Weiqing's firing rate and his moving bow, he basically didn't have the time and energy to observe Zhou Weiqing's actions closely.
With a loud bang, the arrow once more slammed into the shield.
Its strength and power was no different from the previous arrows, with the only difference being the silver light on the arrow.
As the thick silver light erupted out, Lin TianAo suddenly felt his body tighten as he was enveloped in the silver glow. After passing through the shield, the silver light diminished quite a lot, and Lin TianAo shrugged out his arm, moving the shield upwards a little, causing the silver glow imprisoning him to shatter, disappearing into the air.
About a fifty percent weakening effect. A gleam appeared in Zhou Weiqing's eyes as he made an accurate observation and estimation.
That arrow earlier had been imbued with the Spatial Shackles Skill. His thought was to test out the effects of control and support skills on Lin TianAo.
Without question, using a direct attack from the front, none of Zhou Weiqing's skill or even combination of skills would be able to break through Lin TianAo's defense, at least not at their current cultivation level difference. However, no matter how powerful Lin TianAo's shield was, it was still not able to negate all control or support skills. Even so, with his test, he had found out that the shield was able to neutralize almost 50% of the support or control skills' powers. That was a truly terrifying effect. In addition to the difference in cultivation level, most of Zhou Weiqing's control skills would not be of much use. Even still, Zhou Weiqing still had a faint smile on his face.
In this world, there was no such thing as an absolute defense. Even for Lin TianAo with his unbelievable defense, it was close, but there was still some things which he could exploit.
"Yun Li, strike now!" Zhou Weiqing shouted out. Having come up with a plan, he did not hesitate any further.
Earlier, when Yun Li saw Lin TianAo's body flash with a silver light, his eyes had lit up as well. As a Consolidating Equipment Master, he quickly understood that it meant Zhou Weiqing's bow was socketed. However, he was quickly disappointed as Zhou Weiqing's arrow was the rather useless Spatial Shackles Skill.
Chapter 199: Who's the disgusting one? (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
The Spatial Shackles was a powerful skill with a high star rating. However, its use was rather limited, and could only be used in very niche circumstances. As such, it was not a popular combat skill. If used badly, it would not have any effect, or perhaps even have a detrimental effect. For example, using it on Lin TianAo now would only give him an additional layer of defense.
However, hearing Zhou Weiqing's shout, Yun Li knew that Zhou Weiqing had found a chance. As the saying goes, opportunities had to be seized instantly or it would be lost forever. Despite his misgivings, Yun Li did not hesitate at all. So as not to 'lose' himself a second time in a day, he struck forth with all his might, pitting his life with his utmost strength.
Yun Li's body leapt high into the air, a loud cry rang forth from his lips. A thick silver light covered him, as all four of his Gold-Green Cat's Eye Elemental Jewels lit up together. His four Spatial Attribute skills once again focused on the Consolidated Equipment Spike in his hands as he sprang towards Lin TianAo's left leg in this last strike.
After the shout, Zhou Weiqing stopped his rapid fire arrow. Focusing all his Heavenly Energy and channeling it out, two of his Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewels fell into the sockets of the Overlord Bow, but it was covered by the left hand gripping the bow.
Zhou Weiqing's shout not only alerted Yun Li, but also gave Lin TianAo an advance warning. Narrowing his eyes, he unleashed all the skills on his shield, instantly increasing the defense of not just his body but the shield again. Even without using his eyes, he could sense the massive power built up behind him, and knew that Yun Li was about to unleash his final attack. He was also clear that if he could defend against this attack, Yun Li would be useless for the rest of the fight. Under such a circumstance, it would be worth it to expend as much energy as was required.
The arrow was finally released from the Overlord Bow. In the very instant when Zhou Weiqing let go of the drawstring, the red robed man at the side suddenly clutched his ears as a massive ringing resounded. The next instant, he felt a sharp pain in his head, as everything in front of him turned blurry.
Zhou Weiqing would never expect that Tian Er's aid for him was not against Lin TianAo, but instead to draw the attention of this judge and audience – the red robed man. This was to ensure he would not learn of Zhou Weiqing's secret of the Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewel and his many powerful skills.
This time, the arrow shooting forth was pitch black. Even stranger, there were squiggly bright blue lines twisting and turning on the black arrow.
Dodging this was definitely impossible as they were just too close to each other. Not talking about dodging, Lin TianAo wasn't even able to see the arrow at all.
Another huge explosion rang out, the double explosive effect of archery skill and Overlord Bow once more striking the heavy shield, no different from the previous arrows. The explosive power of the arrow was naturally totally blocked by the shield. However, in the next moment, Lin TianAo's expression changed.
At the same time as he released the arrow, Zhou Weiqing's right foot had slammed into the ground, and his body charged forward as well. The Tornado Strike had been activated, along with the boost of speed from his Demonic Right Leg, caused him to instantly reach Lin TianAo.
Yun Li, who was behind Lin TianAo, was also given a big surprise, as he suddenly saw Lin TianAo, who was originally covered in the yellow Rock Armour, suddenly glow with a bright blue. An explosion followed soon after, and the entire Rock Armour actually disappeared.
Not just that, a dark black also stained Lin TianAo's body, and a strange, eerie looking black symbol appeared above his head.
Curse – This was the Curse Skill. Yun Li immediately identified the black symbol above Lin TianAo's head.
Yun Li had already known about Zhou Weiqing's Darkness Attribute after having lost to him earlier in the shop 77 when Zhou Weiqing had used the Blood Rites – Seal of Darkness on him. However, he had not expected Zhou Weiqing to also have one of the rarer skills of the Darkness Attribute, the Curse Skill.
The Curse Skill was actually a type of Skill within the Darkness Attribute skills, basically a form of reverse-support, or more commonly known as debuff skills. Support skills were used to buff or boost the user, or their allies, while Curse skills would weaken their enemies. The type, amount and extent of weakening, the duration, all of that would determine how powerful the Curse Skill was. By the black symbol above Lin TianAo's head which had an obvious three red lines, it was clear that this particular Curse Skill weakened three attributes, and was probably at least a powerful Nine Star Rating Darkness Attribute.
As for why the various defensive skills active on Lin TianAo suddenly dissipated, Yun Li did not know why. However, no matter how it happened, all that mattered was that it was definitely beneficial to his own attack. No matter how strong or tough Lin TianAo's personal defense was, if he did not have his skills active and he did not block Yun Li's powerful attack, he would definitely be in trouble.
What Zhou Weiqing used was naturally an arrow with two skills due to the two sockets on the Overlord Bow, and the two skills were new skills that he had Stored when he entered the Fei Li City, and both were all considered support or control type skills.
The Curse Skill was naturally a sort of support skill.
Yun Li's judgement was indeed accurate – the Darkness Attribute Skill was indeed a Curse Skill, and its name was the Curse of Doom. Its powerful effect was to weaken the opponent's defense, attack and lastly to increase their sense of pain. This Skill was rather strange, the higher level it was, the shorter the duration, but the stronger the effect. At the first level, it lasted 12 seconds, and the three attributes were all weakened by ten percent. It was rather useless at that level, besides its long duration. However, every Jewel cultivation level that was added would increase the power of the curse by ten percent for all three attributes, but the duration would shorten by a second. As such, with three sets of Jewels, Zhou Weiqing's Curse of Doom would weaken Lin TianAo's defense, attack by thirty percent, and increase his sense of pain by thirty percent as well, for a total of ten seconds! This was extremely powerful indeed. In the future, if Zhou Weiqing ever became a twelve-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, this skill could possibly bring his opponent's defense to a negative, even if it was just for a second, it would be more than sufficient for any other skill to deal a heavy injury.
The Curse of Doom was even rarer than the Skills that Zhou Weiqing had Stored from the Silver Emperor. He had been lucky that he had managed to Store this Skill as well, as under ordinary circumstances it was less than a 1 in 10000 chance that someone could manage to Store the Skill.
As for the Skill that dissipated the Defense Skills on Lin TianAo, it was another powerful but niche support skills. This was the Lightning Attribute Skill, the Heavenly Lightning Shock.
In most people's eyes, the Heavenly Lightning Shock was another niche skill that was usually deemed useless despite its power. It did not have any attacking or damaging capabilities, and it had only one use – to dissipate skills. It only worked on Stored Skills, and also was similar to the Absolute Delay that it would never 'level up'. That meant it would always last for 3 seconds no matter what cultivation level he was. Of course, at the same time, it was also another Absolute effect, and would definitely dissipate any Skill.
As long as any Jewel Master was hit by the Heavenly Lightning Shock, any Skills they were in the midst of using, or was currently affecting them, would immediately be dissipated.
There were two reasons why many Jewel Masters thought this skill to be niche and somewhat useless. First of all, it was only activated on touching the opponent's body. The second was that although it could interrupt skills, it would not affect any that had already left the body. For example, if someone used a Fireball Skill which was already in mid air, and the Heavenly Lightning Shock was used on him, the Fireball would not dissipate. Furthermore, there was no other control provided by the Skill. Since Lightning Attribute Jewel Masters were very rare in the first place, and they were mostly known for their powerful damaging attacks, many would not choose this niche skill, and it was only rated at four stars. After all, every Jewel Master had a very limited amount of Skills, and who would pick a Skill that could only be useful in rare circumstances? Only someone like Zhou Weiqing, who had more than four times the usual skills most Jewel Masters had, could afford to do so.
In truth, just like the Spatial Shackles, although the Heavenly Lightning Shock was niche, when used in the right circumstance, it could have an amazing god-like effect. This was just a perfect example – having it dissipate all three of Lin TianAo's defensive skills, including the Rock Armour, right at the perfect timing. Although the Shield was able to weaken half of most support skills, it was not able to weaken this Absolute Skill! With the help of the Socket of the Overlord Bow, Zhou Weiqing was able to make use of it without being in close combat.
With these two skills used in conjunction on Lin TianAo, although it wasn't able to affect his shield, it did greatly lower the personal defense of his body.
Still charging in midair, Zhou Weiqing let loose another arrow. This time, it was only imbued with a single skill – Absolute Delay.
Lin TianAo immediately felt a sense of impending doom. Just as he was about to spin his shield around, the Absolute Delay reached, and he felt his entire body slow down as it took effect, and the spin of the shield slowed to a crawl.
Right at the same time, Yun Li had reached Lin TianAo's back, the glittering spike striking out at his leg.
A critical moment had finally arrived. If Lin TianAo took this full power blow from Yun Li without any defenses, it would be without question that he would lose the bet. Under such a circumstance, he had to use his last ace in the hole. The shield in his hand glowed brightly once more, and a thick layer of light immediately formed a shield around his back.
Another huge explosion sounded out as Yun Li's body flew back once more, rebounding heavily along with a ear-piercing shattering sound. The yellow light which blocked Yun Li's attack also shattered, and Lin TianAo's leg was clearly injured, with a deep bloody line. However, no matter what, Lin TianAo had not moved.
Lin TianAo heaved a big sigh of relief. That last shield of yellow light was his last ace in hand, and was the strongest unique power of the five-Jewel Assembly Set Shield. It was called the Illusory Shield, and was basically an illusion of his shield that could appear in any nearby position according to his will. The illusion had a fifth of the defensive power of the actual shield, and it could only be used once every time he Consolidated the five-Jeweled Assembly Shield. Furthermore, to use it was a huge drain on his Heavenly Energy, and he only used it in his most desperate times to save his life. Naturally, this time it had done so once more.
Chapter 200: Who's the disgusting one? (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
As expected, he had a hidden ace. Zhou Weiqing, who was still in mid air, smiled. Earlier, in order to fire the arrow with the Absolute Defense, he had used his left foot to support to bow and fired it with his left hand. When Lin TianAo blocked Yun Li's attack, the dark gold light appeared around Zhou Weiqing as the two Legendary Hammers appeared in his hands.
From Lin TianAo's perspective, the combination of Zhou Weiqing and Yun Li was naturally of Zhou Weiqing's powerful control skills and Yun Li's final attack to lift him off his feet.
After blocking Yun Li's blow, although Lin TianAo had suffered an injury, he was extremely happy as in his mind, he had already won the bet. Zhou Weiqing had used several skills consecutively, and in his mind should be out of options by now. Furthermore, his shield was blocking his vision, and his focus distracted by Yun Li. As such, he did not notice the two hammers appearing.
By the time Lin TianAo realised that something wasn't right, it was too late and he could not even react. The Heavenly Lightning Shock was still active on its last second, and he still couldn't use his Stored Skills. The Curse of Doom was also still active; the Illusory Shield was used up, and the Absolute Delay was also on its 2nd second of duration. Without question, this was Lin TianAo's weakest point ever, and it had been arranged by Zhou Weiqing's intricate plan and myriad of skills.
Indeed, Yun Li was considered the main attack of this sneak attack. However, Zhou Weiqing had already expected that Lin TianAo would have something else up his sleeve. As such, Yun Li's use was more to draw out the final ace, and in his plan, the final attack was still up to himself – the final attack that had once damaged a Zong Stage Heavenly Jewel Master.
The Tornado Strike rose up around Zhou Weiqing's body and his power increased. The twin hammers were already out, and the Silver Emperor Spatial Rend (the dual attribute combination skill of the Silver Emperor) was already used on hammers. Zhou Weiqing's boosts and support skills were way above what Yun Li had.
*BBOOOOM*
The entire underground arena shook, in fact the entire Trading Center's ground shook, as the two hammers slammed down.
Zhou Weiqing's attack was not targeted at Lin TianAo. Even with so many buffs and support skills, he had no confidence of destroying Lin TianAo's heavy shield. After all, that was a 5-Jewel Assembly Set Consolidated Equipment, and was indeed much too powerful. However, even if he couldn't break the shield, he could just break the ground! So what if it was made of titanium alloy! As such, the Silver Emperor Spatial Rend on the twin hammers boosted by the Tornado Strike slammed savagely onto the floor. The one who was backed against the wall this time was not Zhou Weiqing's team, but Lin TianAo. He had so much power and skills, but was unable to fully use them not just due to the limitations of the bet, but also the many control and debuff skills that Zhou Weiqing had. With a massive clashing sound, the reverberations of the floor made him unable to keep his balance, and he was swept off his feet by the huge, terrifying shockwave, flying back all the way to crash awkwardly into the floor of the arena room. The sheer sound of the explosion was so loud that it sounded like hundreds of thousands of bees buzzing, and the result of it was the entire arena room looking in total ruins.
Naturally, the entire floor could not be made totally from titanium alloy, and this blow from Zhou Weiqing had smashed through the one chi thick titanium alloy layer right down to the bedrock below. The terrifying destructive power of the boosted Silver Emperor Spatial Rend reached all the way down more than fifteen yards, destroying titanium alloy and rock alike, smashing them into smithereens. The entire center of the arena room was caved in more than three metres down, and this was even after the titanium floor had blocked off a lot of the damage.
Even Zhou Weiqing was himself shaken by the backlash of the blow, but he was after all the owner of the legendary hammers, and they were able to block and dissipate much of the backlash and ensuing shockwave. Even so, after everything settled down, Zhou Weiqing was in a mess.
Lin TianAo slid down the wall, totally shaken and dazed. In his mind, there was a single thought – Such an attack, even if he were at his full power and without restrictions, could he actually take it without moving?
Yun Li was at the side, his mouth twitching, and the ringing in his ear making him feel like he wanted to die. He just wanted to ask Zhou Weiqing one question – Are you really human? Is this really an attack from a three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master? However, despite his shock, he was also filled with joy. After all, he had recognized the pair of hammers in Zhou Weiqing's hands, that was indeed the Consolidated Equipment of the first God Tier Design he had seen in their bet earlier! He actually managed to already have a Consolidated Legendary Set Equipment, that was extremely unbelievable.
In this short moment where everyone stood, stunned, not just Yun Li, but also Lin TianAo had the same thought arise suddenly. It was indeed not shameful to lose to someone like this! They had truly underestimated Zhou Weiqing… how could he be compared to any ordinary three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master?
By now, the red-robed man had awoken from his dazed state. When he saw the huge hole in the ground, his face changed. At this point, the incense in his stick had disappeared, with no one any wiser to where it had dropped to. Due to the dazed state he was in earlier, he had totally no idea what had happened earlier, but he could see the result. Without question, Zhou Weiqing and Yun Li had won this bet.
Zhou Weiqing sat down on the floor suddenly, panting and gasping for breath. By now, all his Consolidated Equipment had disappeared.
Although he had won, he had truly expended every ounce of energy and spirit he had in that long chain of attacks, all his focus in planning that all out. Zhou Weiqing was sure that if Lin TianAo had been able to move or use both his hands, he and Yun Li would still have lost in the end. He might have a power way beyond any three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, but this Lin TianAo was also at a power level way beyond any five-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master as well.
When a 'disgusting' fellow met another 'disgusting' fellow, the final result would depend on who is more 'disgusting'. The final result was our dear Zhou Weiqing with his Alexandrite Cat's Eye Elemental Jewels had barely eked out a win. No matter how difficult it had been, they had won this bet!
Right at that moment, there was a loud commotion from outside, along with the resounding sound of many footsteps running towards them. With a loud bang, the arena door was slammed open, and about seven to eight red robed men appeared in the room quickly. When these men entered, the brows of Zhou Weiqing, Lin TianAo and Yun Li all jumped. These men all had powerful auras, the weakest of whom were still equal to Lin TianAo.
That was to say, they were all at least five-Jewel Heavenly Jewel Masters or above!
Even for a large empire like the Fei Li Empire, there weren't more than five hundred Heavenly Jewel Masters added up together, and for those of a cultivation level above five-Jewels, there couldn't be much more than a hundred or so. For seven or eight of them to appear here, with some of them clearly of an even higher level, that clearly showed how powerful this Underground Arena truly was.
Among the red robed men who had charged in, the one who looked like the leader had three gold stripes on the sleeve of his robes, signifying his rank and also power amongst the others. As soon as he entered, he spotted the huge hole in the floor, and his face changed slightly. In a solemn tone, he asked: "What's going on here?"
All of the red robed men were also masked, hiding their true identities.
"Arena Master, this was the result of their fight." The red robed man originally in charge of the number 7 room quickly stepped forward and said respectfully.
The leader's gaze swept across the three of them, and when his gaze fell upon Zhou Weiqing, he hesitated a moment, the look in his eyes changing slightly. However, at that point, Zhou Weiqing had just stood up and did not notice it.
The Arena Master said solemnly: "Is the fight and bet over?"
"Yes, it is already over."
Continuing coldly, the Arena Master said: "Let them pay for the damages, one hundred thousand gold coins, otherwise they are not allowed to leave."
"Yes."
After saying that, the Arena Master left along with the other red robed men. As for Zhou Weiqing and the other two, they had recovered a little by now, and walked to the door.
The original red robed man was the only remaining, and the expression on his face was extremely ugly. This was after all the room he was in charge of, and with such a serious damage, it would take a long time to repair. Furthermore, the pain and dazed state he was in earlier had given him a really bad mood; although he did not know what had happened exactly, he knew it definitely had to have some connection with the three fellows in front of him. After all, he had not seen the most exciting last three seconds of the fight.
"I'll pay, I'll pay." Zhou Weiqing grinned, quickly taking out his membership card. His body was now very relaxed, and he was in a very good mood. After all, he had already been very happy to get Yun Li, a High Level Consolidating Equipment Master, as his Follower. Now, this Lin TianAo was an even bigger grab. Such a defense, if he was his bodyguard, even if he ran into Ming Wu again, they would be able to defend themselves for a while. Thinking about this, Zhou Weiqing felt a sense of delight. Staring at Lin TianAo with a grin on his face, causing Lin TianAo to feel a shiver down his back as he began to doubt the sexual orientation of Zhou Weiqing…
After paying the ten thousand gold coins, Zhou Weiqing turned back to look at Lin TianAo, a big smile on his face, though he did not say anything.
How could Lin TianAo not know what this fellow was thinking… Naturally he was afraid that Lin TianAo might break his word, and was making use of the arena's binding contract power to let him admit his defeat.
"I have lost. I am a man of my word. Come on then." Lin TianAo let loose a long sigh as he admitted defeat. He was not as torn and conflicted by the loss as Yun Li previously. No matter how sad he was, he was after all the one had challenged them, and a loss was a loss. It was his own fault for being greedy! He knew that Zhou Weiqing had the Darkness Attribute, and was likely to have his own Sealing powers.
Chapter 201: I'm prepared to lose. (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"I've lost… Since I'm willing to bet, I am also prepared to lose. Come on then." Lin TianAo repeated.
Seeing the resolute look on his face, Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "There's no rush. Let's leave first then." As he said that, he did not wait for either of them to speak, and turned to leave.
As the three of them left the Underground Arena, Lin TianAo couldn't help but ask: "Don't you have any Sealing Skills for your Darkness Attribute?"
Zhou Weiqing stopped and said: "Of course I do."
Lin TianAo furrowed his brow and asked curiously: "Why didn't you just use it on me earlier then?"
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "There's no rush, let's head back to the shop 77 first before we do anything further. There's no need to rush to do so in the arena room."
A gleam flashed in Lin TianAo's eyes as he said: "Aren't you afraid I will go back on my word? The binding contract of the Underground Arena is powerful, but if I really want to run, it is unlikely they will be able to catch me now that we are already outside."
Zhou Weiqing shook his head and said: "No, I'm not afraid. I do not think you are such a person. If you really do run off, then I will just have to blame my own vision and for being terrible at judging characters."
Yun Li, who was at the side, couldn't help but exclaim angrily at that. ���Do you mean to say that I am such a person? You were so anxious to Seal me earlier."
Zhou Weiqing laughed and said: "A little, not as sure as I was of him anyway. Furthermore, we were already in a quiet sealed off chamber at that time, it was convenient right? Now now, we are all a big family now, why nitpick?!"
Yun Li gave a humph, then took a look at Lin TianAo at the side. All of a sudden, he broke out in a big grin and said laughingly: "At least now there's someone to suffer with me, I feel a lot better now."
Lin TianAo said angrily: "Damn it, what do you mean?"
Yun Li grinned and said: "Heh… Big guy, getting angry is useless. Although I am not a powerful as you are, but in terms of speed, you are no match for me. How can I be truly afraid of you? We are after all brothers in the same boat, both of us have been fooled by this little rascal here. However, I have to admit you are much more powerful than I am. If even you lose to this little rascal, why should I feel conflicted anymore? Hahahaha."
Only then did Lin TianAo realise something, and he asked curiously: "Do you mean to say that you actually lost your bet earlier when you were competing in creating Consolidating Equipment Scrolls? And you have already been Sealed by this little brat?"
Yun Li said with an exasperated humph: "Yes… he is just too sly."
"Oei Oei.. I say… you two… what's with this rascal this and brat this. After all, I'm your Boss! You have to respect your Boss." Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but say.
Yun Li and Lin TianAo chorused: "Respect my ass!"
Seeing both their indignant expressions, Zhou Weiqing did not pay heed, instead laughing out and saying: "Heh heh… Aiiyahhh, some people have just lost their lifelong freedom… I can understand the need to let loose a little. No problems, this big brother here is very generous, you all can continue letting loose some steam. Haha… come on, let's go back to the shop 77 to buy some stuff, and also place the Seal on Bro Lin while we're at it. Hahaha…"
At this point, Shangguan Bing'er was waiting anxiously at the shop 77, standing beside the window staring into the distance where the three had disappeared to earlier.
Finally, the familiar figure appeared in her sight. When she first saw his battered and messed up look, she was given a big fright. However, she immediately spotted the smug smile on his face, and she relaxed.
Qin Feng was also quickly notified about their approach by his employees, and quickly headed down together with Shangguan Bing'er to receive them.
"Master Zhou, your bet…?" Qin Feng asked curiously.
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "Ahh… it was a draw… another draw… Hahahahahaha." He was just too happy and pleased with himself, and couldn't help but let loose a smug laugh.
Once again, Yun Li and Lin TianAo spawned the same notion at the same time… In their lives, they had never wanted to beat someone up so much…
"Big Bro Qin, we still need to borrow your chamber once more. The three of us have taken to each other, and there are some things we need to discuss. Is that convenient?" Zhou Weiqing said with a smiling face.
Qin Feng quickly said: "Of course, that is no problem at all. Please." He currently had many doubts in his heart. After all, a second draw seemed rather convenient. However, he did not recognize Lin TianAo at all, and did not know how powerful Lin TianAo was. As such, although he had some suspicions, he did not ask further.
Yun Li stopped and turned to Zhou Weiqing, saying: "You guys go ahead, I will not join you two. I need to bid farewell to Bro Zhou Changxi." He was afraid that if he looked at the Sealing, his own memories would be sparked and he would feel depressed again. As such, he decided to just avoid it.
Zhou Weiqing said: "Alright then, you go ahead. I'll see you later then. Bro Qin, one more thing, I also need to purchase these goods, could you please help me prepare them? I will pay you after we are done. Thank you." He took out a list that he had prepared beforehand. Due to his good mood, he didn't even ask about the price."
Zhou Weiqing, Shangguan Bing'er and Lin TianAo headed to the quiet chambers. Just like what Zhou Weiqing had expected, Lin TianAo was an upright person, and did not try to break his word. Although he was rather sad and pained in the heart, he did not try to resist and allowed Zhou Weiqing to use the Blood Rites – Seal of Darkness on him. As such, another powerful Heavenly Jewel Master of mighty defense was now Following Zhou Weiqing.
"Bro Lin, in the future, you can just call me by my name. Today, I was indeed just too lucky. However, you were the one who placed the bet, and you can't blame me for it. To be honest, you are of much higher cultivation level than me, and if one day, your level exceeds me by more than twelve levels, the Seal between us will automatically dissolve."
After completing the Seal, Zhou Weiqing kept his grinning face and spoke to Lin TianAo in a very serious tone.
Lin TianAo gave a long sigh and said: "Greed was truly my downfall today. Earlier, when I saw both of you, such talented genius among Consolidating Equipment Masters, I was struck by the thought of tricking one of you into being my Follower, hoping that in future I can complete and perfect my Assembly Set Shield. Alas, who knew that I would not gain anything, but instead lose myself in the process. I did not lose to you, but I lost to the words Underestimate. Do not worry, since I have already lost the bet, in the future, I am your man."
Zhou Weiqing's mouth twitched as he couldn't help but think to himself: What do you mean 'you're my man'. Don't make it sound so… dirty. However, he knew that Lin TianAo had to be in a bad mood, and did not try to joke around, and just nodded his head.
"Master, I have a favour to ask." Lin TianAo said, bowing down as he brought his hands to his chest in a saluting position. 1
Zhou Weiqing quickly said: "Bro Lin, no problems, just speak your mind. We are now a family, and you can just address me like brothers."
Lin TianAo shook his head and said: "I have lost the bet, and I am your Follower, you are my Master. There is nothing to hide about it. Master, I have something important to me to accomplish. Can you please give me three months? After the three months, I will definitely return to your side and be your Lifetime Follower."
Zhou Weiqing really felt like rejecting the request. After all, even though he had not been in the Fei Li City for a long time, he had already had his life threatened. With such a powerful Heavenly Jewel Master by his side to protect him, it would definitely be much safer. However, in the end, he still nodded his head in agreement. After all, Lin TianAo had already lost his whole life's freedom, how could he not allow him to tidy up his own things first? As such, he arranged the time and place to meet with Lin TianAo in three months.
Lin TianAo looked deeply at Zhou Weiqing, saying a word of farewell before turning to leave. Although he did not say anything further, Zhou Weiqing could clearly see the look of gratitude in his eyes.
Three months it shall be. At most, I shall try to keep a lower profile during these three months. Zhou Weiqing thought to himself.
Qin Feng's shop 77 had been a open for a long time, and he had a good stock of various goods. Even if he were lacking anything that Zhou Weiqing needed, there were many other shops around with a good stock that he could get them from. In barely an hour, he had finished preparing the items from Zhou Weiqing's list.
"Do you have any personal matters to finish up? If you do, I'll also give you the same holiday." On seeing Yun Li return to the shop 77, Zhou Weiqing asked him after a quick explanation.
Yun Li shook his head and said: "I'm all alone in this world now. I was orphaned at a young age, and was brought up by my teacher. Two years ago, my teacher passed away, and I have no one else. I can follow you now." As he said that, he snuck closer to Zhou Weiqing and whispered in his ear: "Later, let me examine your pair of hammers, I want to research on them as well."
Earlier, when he had seen Zhou Weiqing wielding the twin Legendary Hammers, an itch had appeared in his heart. After all, to a Consolidating Equipment Master, what was more attractive than a powerful or rare Consolidated Equipment? Even the pain of his own loss had been diminished by his lust to examine the hammers.
"No problem, I'll let you examine them later." Zhou Weiqing replied easily. As a Consolidating Equipment Master himself, he totally understood how he must be feeling now. Furthermore, he also wanted to exchange pointers with Yun Li. After all, even though he had learned a lot from Huyan Aobo, but a lot of that was hard memorising, and it was still a long while before he could fully assimilate everything. Without question, Yun Li was much more experienced, and was also from a different school of learning. Exchanging pointers would benefit both of them, and Zhou Weiqing would be able to reach the rank of High Level Consolidating Equipment Master much earlier.
"Bro Qin, how much will all of this cost?" Zhou Weiqing kept the various materials that Zhou Weiqing had prepared for him into his Spatial Ring, then remembered to ask about the cost.
Qin Feng hesitated a while before biting his lip, saying: "Bro, just 260,000 gold coins for you."
Zhou Weiqing started, saying: "So much!" He only had 450,000 gold coins, having put 400,000 into the member cards. Earlier, he had already paid 100,000 gold coins for the repair fees of the arena, and with another 260,000 gold coins payment, he would nearly be wiped out.
Yun Li looked at Zhou Weiqing's sad face and nudged him exasperatedly: "Stop speaking like a unprofessional. Boss Qin has already given you an amazing price. The items you bought would cost about 400,000 gold coins in the open market. It's likely that Boss Qin has already given them to you at cost price. Hurry up and pay up."
Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Haha… Sorry, Bro Qin… I am unaware of market prices. Here's the payment." He passed over his and Shangguan Bing'er's membership cards in order to pay for his purchases.
Chapter 202: I'm prepared to lose. (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Qin Feng laughed heartily and said: "Master Zhou, Master Yun, in future if you both have any requirements, you can head over here. Although I dare not say that I have stock of everything, at least most of the common necessities I will definitely have them, and I will be willing to sell them to you at cost price." Indeed, he had not earned anything from Zhou Weiqing himself, but without a doubt, the bet and great battle between these two young talented Consolidating Equipment Masters had drawn many eyeballs to his shop. As such, even though it was already late, there were still many customers in his shop, and he had gotten much business in the past few hours. Having a talented and outstanding Consolidating Equipment Master buying from him was better than any advertising he could do.
Bidding farewell to Qin Feng, Zhou Weiiqng and Shangguan Bing'er led Yun Li back to their house. Their house was rather huge after all, and it was no problems finding a room for Yun Li as well.
As soon as they entered, Zhou Weiqing could sense that Ming Hua had not returned. He did not take much notice of that, as long as the Heavenly Demon Sect did not come after him again, he was more than happy to let them be. The only regret he had today was that although he had heard Tian Er's voice once more, he had not been able to see that amazing beauty once more, causing him to have some regret in his heart.
Yun Li did not really care about his living accommodations, and did not even bother checking into his room. Without any hesitation, he barged right into Zhou Weiqing's room with a look of excitement on his face. As soon as the door closed, he quickly urged to examine the dual hammers once more.
Even Shangguan Bing'er saw his eager and impatient look and couldn't help but giggle to herself, turning to the kitchen to prepare some refreshments for them as she knew they would be holed up there for a long time. After which, she headed back to her room to cultivate as well.
In a flash of dark gold light, Zhou Weiqing once again let loose the hammers which were the first of his Legendary Set. When Yun Li started examining them at close proximity, a besotted look entered his eyes.
"No wonder you were able to shake that terrifying Lin TianAo. This is amazing… so beautiful… Legendary Sets are truly worthy of the word Legendary! That being said, how did you manage to successfully Consolidate this? Could it be that your sect is able to create an entire Set of this? Even if a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master created this, it would likely take ten Scrolls for a guaranteed success right?"
Zhou Weiqing said curiously: "How come I heard from my Teacher that it shouldn't take ten?! Anyway, I was just extremely luck, my sect only had a single scroll, and I just tried it and succeeded in Consolidating it."
Yun Li stared at Zhou Weiqing like he was a monster. "Damn… Disgusting… Totally disgusting! I have such bad luck, I'll be facing two disgusting monsters daily from now on. Ahhh… my life is so bitter!" Thinking how he had trained so hard for so many years, and just as he was about to become somebody important, he had bet and lost his own life and freedom… he couldn't help but feel a sense of sorrow arise within him.
Seeing the sorrowful eyes of Yun Li, Zhou Weiqing laughed and said: "That being said, you really did get tricked by me. However, that was also because of your own pride and ego right? Alas, Lin TianAo was the one who came over and sent himself to me. That rascal's defense is really inhuman! Even not considering his defense, his strength alone is terrifying… It is indeed strange, he is definitely not a Strength Attribute Physical Jewel Master, yet his strength is unbelievable."
Yun Li thought for a while before saying solemnly: "Weiqing, if I do not guess wrongly, I think Bro Lin has the bloodlines of the Barbarian Tribes, that is the reason why he has such a terrifying strength. In addition to that Consolidated Equipment Assembly Set, it is truly a perfect match. If not for the fact he had been restricted by so many terms of our bet, even with your equally inhuman Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewel and both of us attacking together, I doubt we can defeat him. Although your twin Legendary Hammers are extremely powerful, they are after all just a single piece. Without the boost that the Set provides, even if you use your full power, you will not be able to hurt him. Furthermore, his Heavenly Energy is extremely full and vigorous, with much stamina. Without question, he will be able to outlast us. In a real fight, we would definitely lose to him."
Zhou Weiqing laughed and said: "Real fight? Why would I fight with him headon. If I can't beat him, I can easily outrun him right? Everyone has their own weak points. The reason why he chose to bet with us with his defense is exactly because of that, he is extremely confident in that, but has no confidence in his speed. However, this is also the first time I have witnessed the true power of the Consolidated Equipment Assembly Set. That is also with it being used on defense… I wonder what it'd be like if used on offense…"
As he spoke up to that point, they both exchanged looks, and couldn't help but shudder involuntarily. Yun Li said seriously: "Weiqing, it looks like we had better research on this, and perhaps design some Assembly Sets. This might be a good source of income."
Zhou Weiqing's eyes lit up and he struck his own leg suddenly as he cried out: "That's right! Great idea! Furthermore, we have Lin TianAo, this disgusting fellow, as a living advertisement. Heh heh heh."
"Alright, you have the face to call him disgusting? Aren't you just as disgusting? If your cultivation level was also equal to his five-Jeweled stage, your overall power level will definitely be more terrifying than his. Hey, don't keep your hammers, let me continue examining them…"
With two Consolidating Equipment Masters together, especially with their relationship allowing them to not hide anything from each other, it caused them to have a sleepless night of discussion and exchange.
The next morning, both of them exited the room with panda eyes.
Yun Li had a face full of excitement as he said: "Boss, I'm going to get something to eat and I'll head to bed. I already have a plan for a new design, when you're back from class we can continue our discussion." As he said that, he turned and headed for the kitchen.
After a whole night of discussion, Yun Li was much clearer about Zhou Weiqing's current situation. After Zhou Weiqing had been forced to agree to help him look for the materials for his own Legendary Set as well, Yun Li had started calling him boss. After all, it was already a fact, and calling him Boss was no detriment to himself. However, Zhou Weiqing was also happy to help him. After the night of talking, they had gotten much closer to each other. At least, they had a similar goal – to complete their Legendary Sets and to wear them sometime in the future.
"Little Fatty!" Shangguan Bing'er, who had finished preparing breakfast, looked at him with an admonishing gaze.
Before she could say anything, Zhou Weiqing quickly said with a smile: "It won't happen again, I promise."
Shangguan Bing'er gave him a clean set of school uniforms to change, and as she looked at his tired face, she felt a tinge in her heart. Touching his face lightly, she said softly: "Little Fatty, I know you are worried about the situation of our Heavenly Bow Empire, but rushing into things will not help. You are already doing very well. Promise me, in future, you will not risk yourself so much alright? I do not want you to use your future and life as a bet any more. What happens if you meet someone with a hidden ace, someone more powerful?"
Zhou Weiqing held her in his arms, feeling her warmth and the sweet scent from her hair, he said softly: "I was indeed too impulsive yesterday. I promise, I will not do this again, alright?"
Shangguan Bing'er nodded and said: "Don't overdo the sleepless nights as well, I do not like to see you suffer so much."
Zhou Weiqing grinned and whispered into her ear: "It's easy to have a good sleep… as long as I can hug my beautiful Bing'er to sleep every night, who would want to stay up to work!"
"Hmph! We're being serious here, stop playing around. Go eat your breakfast." Shangguan Bing'er blushed red again and squirmed out of his embrace, turning back and heading into the kitchen. However, what Zhou Weiqing himself would not expect was that her defenses were being eroded by his constant teasing, at least deep in her heart, her resistance to him was slowly being lowered. After all, she had already thought of him as her husband.
After breakfast, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but keep yawning. After an entire night of focus and learning, he was indeed very tired. Washing his face quickly with cold water, he finally cleared his head a little. As they headed out towards the academy, he gave Yun Li's room an envious look. At least that fellow can get some sleep! Ahh, I have to suffer in class today.
Zhou Weiqing held onto Shangguan Bing'er's soft little hands, and they headed towards the academy together. After all, Zhou Weiqing had already announced their relationship, and Shangguan Bing'er had come to terms with it and wasn't so embarrassed.
In the distance, the academy's gates were already in sight, but the two of them were give a surprise. That was because there were many unexpected horse carriages parked in front of the academy, with quite a crowd standing in front of the gates looking around. From what they could see, there were more than a dozen horse carriages and almost two hundred or so people standing around, some of whom seemed to have a dignified, noble air.
"What's this? Did something happen? Why's there so many people around?" Zhou Weiqing paused in hesitation and asked out loud.
At that moment, Shangguan Bing'er had been deep in her own thoughts, thinking to herself whether or not to agree to her Little Fatty's request. If she were not intimate with him, what if he couldn't contain himself? Furthermore, there was that beautiful and alluring Ming Hua staying in the house with them…
Hearing Zhou Weiqing's words, she looked up in a loss. When she saw the situation in front of the academy, she was also taken aback. "Even during the registration dates, there weren't that many horse carriages!"
All of a sudden, a voice rang out close to them. "Junior, this is actually all because of you." Zhou Weiqing turned towards the voice, only to see Ye Paopao walking over from the distance, dressed in his noble uniform. He was alone today, and seeing his handsome and harmless look, it was hard to imagine that this fellow was one of the noble leaders of their academy students.
"Because of me? Senior, what do the horse carriages have to do with me?" Zhou Weiqing asked curiously, vigilance rising in his heart. This Ye Paopao was a master at controlling his emotions and expressions, and it was hard to read him. To be able to be the leader of the noble students, how could he be a simple person?
Ye Paopao said in a helpless tone: "Junior, have you forgotten? Did you think that after your commoner class one beat up so many noble students yesterday, there wouldn't be any repercussions? Speaking of which, you guys sure beat them up rather savagely! Out of that entire second year class, almost half of them had broken bones, and many of them were severely injured."
Zhou Weiqing said with an innocent look on his face: "We can't be blamed for that, the academy has already punished both sides very fairly, what else can I be blamed for."
Ye Paopao laughed heartily and said: "Although I do not know how you managed to accomplish that, you are indeed something to be able to have to academy not come after you after that. However, do not forget that this is the Fei Li City, and many of the nobles are here. To them, you are the instigator of beating up the noble students, and when you beat up the young ones, the old ones will naturally pop up to look for justice. The ones at the gates are all waiting for you. Inside the carriages are many of those who had been beaten up yesterday, here to point you out. Even if the academy doesn't take action on you, do you think the nobles will let everything slide?"
Chapter 203: I'm prepared to lose. (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Zhou Weiqing furrowed his brow and said: "Thanks for the warning Senior. However, isn't our lady Principal the Princess? How could these nobles dare be so arrogant?"
Ye Paopao couldn't help but laugh as he said: "Junior, you are an intelligent person, how could yo say something like that. If not for the fact that it was Her Highness, the Principal, at the head personally settling things, these people would not be waiting outside for you, and would have long since stormed inside to find you. However, even with our Principal's status, facing so many nobles, it will be tough for her to withstand such pressure. Junior, you need to prepare yourself. However, I still believe that the academy will be able to deal with the situation. After all, they have already announced their decision, and it is unlikely they will change their tune suddenly."
Zhou Weiqing said impassively: "Thanks so much for Senior for taking the trouble to come here to inform me about the situation. I will not forget this favour."
Ye Paopao waved his hand and said: "I did not come here to warn you in order to get any favour. Did you think any ordinary person is worthy of my time to warn? I did not come here to get a debt from you. In my eyes, I consider you the dangerous sort, especially your future, it is just too danger. I do not want to be an enemy to someone so dangerous… as such, I can only try to be your friend."
Their eyes met, and Zhou Weiqing smiled and nodded. Extending his right hand, he said: "From now on, we are friends. However, my principles will not waver, do not think you can get any of the commoner students from me."
Ye Paopao laughed and said: "Since we are friends, those commoner students are considered under you, what big difference is there if they are under me. I have heard that you have proclaimed that you will definitely become a High Level Consolidating Equipment Master within the next four years. I am looking forward to that! In the future, if you have any Consolidating Equipment Scrolls for sale, do remember to look for me, I will definitely give a good price. Come on, let's go, I'll bring you to the side to enter. These people are fools, as if blocking the main entrance will be of any use, and we can't just vault over the wall."
To be honest, Zhou Weiqing did not really want to be friends with Ye Paopao, at least not at this point in time. That was because he was unable to read this person, and he felt that he posed almost as much danger as Ming Hua. However, right at this moment, he did not have any choice. After entering the Fei Li Military Academy for just barely a few days, he had already made so many enemies. If he made another enemy for no purpose, that was just being foolish. Furthermore, he was extending a friendly hand now.
After detouring around the main entrance, the three of them entered from the sides. It had to be said that the Fei Li Military Academy walls were actually extremely high, almost six metres tall, with sharp metal spikes on the top as well. This was highly difficult for any ordinary person to scale, but to powerful Jewel Masters like them, it was not much of an obstacle.
Ye Paopao pointed above and smiled, saying: "Let's enter from here then." As he said that, he lifted his right hand, and a dim blue light shone forth from his palm, and an ice pillar coalesced. An amazing sight followed, as the ice pillar continued growing larger, bringing Ye Paopao's body along with it. In a matter of moments, it had grown past the six metre mark, and Ye Paopao quickly stepped off over, dropping down beyond the wall.
Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er exchanged a rather surprised look. Both of them had sensed that when Ye Paopao created the ice pillar, he had not used any skill. WIthout question, his Elemental Jewel was water, and he had made use of water to form ice just with his Heavenly Energy and Attribute. That sheer control and amount of Heavenly Energy was rather impressive. From that, it was clear that he was likely of higher cultivation level than them, perhaps about the same as Ming Hua, a four-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master. The reason why he was most likely a Heavenly Jewel Master was because only they would have the purity of Element to be able to change water to ice so easily.
Zhou Weiqing held Shangguan Bing'er by her slim waist, and striking the ground with his right foot, a muffled *Bang* sounded out, and the two of them flew all the way above the six feet wall to the other side. With this, he totally used only physical strength, and was also carrying another person to boot. With that, he slightly showed down Ye Paopao. Of course, this was due to the power of the Demonic Right Leg, but since Ye Paopao had already showed some of his power, how could Zhou Weiqing back down. To be friends with a person like Ye Paopao, one had to prove to be his equal, otherwise the friendship might turn into something else.
"Junior has indeed much skill." Ye Paopao praised him, a flash of surprise crossing his eyes. Although he did not personally look at Zhou Weiqing jumping, he could still tell from the energy in the air that Zhou Weiqing had not used any Heavenly Energy at all.
"Senior is also extremely powerful, even if you were to be in the Heavenly Jewel Master Academy, I estimate that Senior will be one of the top echelons." Praise was after all free, and who didn't know how to dole it out freely? However, not everyone had the great acting skills of Zhou Weiqing, who made it sound so sincere.
Hearing his words, Ye Paopao shook his head bitterly and said: "Junior, the Heavenly Jewel Master Academy is not as simple as you think. To be brutally honest, in our academy, there are few who can compete with me. However, if we compare it to the Heavenly Jewel Master Academy, I would be hard pressed to squeeze into their top 50 ranks, out of their mere student population of only slightly more than a hundred. The Principal of the Heavenly Jewel Master Academy is our Empire's top strongest Heavenly Jewel Master, he has broken past the Zong Stage and is the only ten-Jeweled King Stage Heavenly Jewel Master in our Empire. Furthermore, their focus is on fighting capabilities, and they have a lot of combat experience, while a lot of our studies and focus is on military knowledge, how could we possibly match them. Without any exaggeration, I would probably be unable to beat a three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master student of theirs.
"King Stage Heavenly Jewel Master?" Both Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er drew sharp breaths when they heard that. It might sound like a mere set of Jewels from 9 Jewels to 10 Jewels, but it was not as simple as that. High Level Zong Stage Heavenly Jewel Masters were already extremely rare, but you could probably still find more than twenty or so in the entire Fei Li Empire. However, there was only the one single King Stage Heavenly Jewel Master, and that was already a whole new power level. To put things in perspective, a single Low Level King Stage Heavenly Jewel Master could easily take out ten High Level Zong Stage Heavenly Jewel Masters.
Ye Paopao smiled faintly and said: "There is no need to be so surprised, Junior. The Principal of the Heavenly Jewel Master also has another status, which is our Fei Li Empire's Skill Storing Palace Master, and is also our Empire Premier Master, and he is already a Mid Level King Stage Heavenly Jewel Master."
Once a Heavenly Jewel Master reached the King Stage, the High, Medium and Low Levels were no longer according to the number of Jewels, but according to Heavenly Energy cultivation level. Just from that alone, one could tell how difficult it was to increase in power at that point.
Zhou Weiqing took a deep breath and said: "I never thought that the Heavenly Jewel Master Academy would be so powerful, and have such a background."
Ye Paopao gave a cold smile and said: "No matter how powerful a Heavenly Jewel Master is, they are still a single individual. How can they compare with us, who will become great generals in the future? No matter how powerful an individual is, they will never be able to compete with an entire large army. After all, there is a limit to the amount of Heavenly Energy one can have, and it will run out eventually."
"Alright, I've said enough. Junior, I have to head back to my class. If you have any issues, do come and look for me. However, I might have to leave in a few days time. If possible, I suggest that you do not leave the academy in the near future, and just stay in the dorms for a while for your own safety. With our Princess as our Principal, no one will dare to come into the Academy to look for trouble. After yesterday's fight, your commoner class one has already gained their reputation, and it is likely that any of the students will cause more trouble."
Zhou Weiqing smiled and said: "As long as Senior doesn't come looking for trouble with me, I am not afraid of anyone else."
Ye Paopao laughed heartily and waved towards Zhou Weiqing, before turning to leave.
When Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er reached their classroom, they immediately felt that the atmosphere was rather strained.
The class was extremely quiet. Ming Hua had already arrived, and was seated at the front with her brow furrowed slightly. When Zhou Weiqing entered, everyone turned to look at him, and some of the students even stood up.
"Boss, are you alright?" At least a dozen concerned voices sounded out instantly.
Zhou Weiqing laughed and said: "What is up with you all? It's just a small matter, how could anything happen to me?"
Ming Hua said exasperatedly: "You have caused trouble with more than a dozen noble families, of which there are two Dukes, six Marquis, and nine counts, the rest being viscounts. Is that still considered a small matter? Even the Principal is having trouble dealing with them, and you are treating it as nothing?"
One of the other classmates stood up abruptly, exclaiming: "Monitor, yesterday's incident was done by all of us. Damn it, since a young age, I have never experienced such a great feeling. If the academy punishes you, count me in, I will share the responsibility."
As soon as he said that, it resonated with all the commoner students, and instantly a commotion arose in the entire class.
"That's right, boss! We will all share responsibility! Didn't you say before, we are an entire family. All for one, and one for all!"
Seeing his classmates' excited expressions, Zhou Weiqing felt a warmth in his heart. He knew that his efforts over the past few days had not gone to waste. Not only had they approved of him, their competitive spirits and fighting spirits had also been sparked. This was the most important gain.
Even Ming Hua stared at the entire class, stunned. She had after all been through the student phase, but she had never seen a class so united, a single student so respected and beloved by everyone. This was just a few days from the start of school, what was going on? If this went on for a longer period, would these commoner students be even willing to die for him?
At this moment, Ming Hua suddenly felt that her father's insight was indeed clear. Zhou Weiqing was not just a simple sly, cunning and powerful person. He had a strange leadership quality that just could not be described. Unlike her big brother's leadership, Zhou Weiqing's was the sort that could make his followers crazy, perhaps leading them in some 'bad' ways. Ming Hua was unable to describe the feeling, but she could clearly feel that it was just like her father had said, they could no longer afford to antagonize him further, to make him an enemy of their Sect.
"Alright, alright. Everyone quieten down." Zhou Weiqing raised his hands, motioning for silence. With a faint smile, he said: "Enough said. Yesterday, our Principal has already announced her decision, and there will not be any further changes. Furthermore, even if anything crops up, I do not need you to share the responsibility. After all, that is what the monitor is for. Do you think you call me Boss for nothing? The Boss is there to take the pressure!"
Chapter 204: Five Great Saint Lands (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"The Boss is there to take the pressure!" As soon as he said that, he gave a hearty laugh. However, he was quickly forced to stop laughing embarrassedly, as no one had joined it. However, all the students were staring at him, as if something was ignited in their gazes.
With a cough, he continued: "Everyone, don't stare at me like that, I will feel shy. Come on, it's time for class, everyone sit down." As he said that, he headed towards his own seat.
"Weiqing, go to the Principal's office, she is looking for you." Ming Hua's voice rang out.
Zhou Weiqing started momentarily, turning to look at Ming Hua. All the students also turned their gazes towards her, and instantly the atmosphere in the class turned nervous.
Ming Hua furrowed her brow and said: "Everyone, do not worry. I can guarantee that nothing will happen to your monitor. Although this matter is a little troublesome, but our Principal is after all the Princess of our Empire, and not someone the nobles can easily trifle with."
"Boss, we'll go with you." Kou Rui said excitedly.
Zhou Weiqing turned back around to face his classmates, and with a peaceful gaze he said calmly: "Very good, we now truly feel like a real team, a family. As for going with me, it isn't necessary. After all, Teacher Ming Hua has already said that nothing would happen right? I'll be back soon, you guys study hard, it is class time after all. Stop standing around, all of you sit down." As he said the last line, he glared at them, and the rest of the commoner students finally settled down.
Ming Hua sighed to herself inwardly as she sat behind the podium, thinking. Perhaps, this class might turn into the best class that the Academy has ever taught. This Zhou Weiqing is really something, this is true unity. For a class of students to truly unite, there needs to be a core, a heart, and this core was apparently not herself, the teacher, but instead Zhou Weiqing. Of course, in order to become this core, he had also done a lot, so much that even though Ming Hua felt a little envious, the emotion she felt the most was admiration. As she settled her various personal feelings about Zhou Weiqing and calmed down, she could analyse the entire situation, and see why her father and brother looked so highly upon him.
As Zhou Weiqing left the classroom alone, he calmed himself down and walked slowly towards the Principal's office. At the same time, he pondered what could be the possible outcomes.
It was unlikely that Ming HUa would lie to him about the situation, after all she had stated it in front of the entire class.
That was to say… the beautiful lady Principal would protect him. However, at the same time, as Ming Hua and Ye Paopao had mentioned, it would not be easy for her to withstand all the pressure from so many nobles. It looks like he would have to give something up, perhaps get a slightly heavier punishment. This was likely the reason Principal Cai Cai was looking for him.
He could deal with a bigger punishment without any problems, after all that did not affect his overall plan. Zhou Weiqing quickly smiled. Since he had gotten Yun Li and Lin TianAo as Followers yesterday, and seen the unity of his classmates today, his mood was currently extremely good. As such, he was not troubled by the upcoming punishment.
When Zhou Weiqing reached the fourth level where the Principal's office was, he just happened to see a group of noble students dressed in their splendid uniforms walking down the stairs, looking glum and dissatisfied. Without question, these were the ones who had tried to lodge a complaint against him. Looking at their expressions, Zhou Weiqing was certain of his guess, that the Principal would not submit to them.
Knocking twice on the door, he tidied his uniform unhurriedly, his usual honest smile appearing on his face. Whether or not others would believe it was one matter, but he would always maintain his act.
"Come in." Cai Cai's solemn voice rang out from within.
Zhou Weiqing pushed open the door and entered.
Cai Cai was not alone in her office, and Dean Xiao Shi was also there, seemingly deep in discussion with her.
As soon as Zhou Weiqing entered, Cai Cai's expression sank, and she turned to Xiao Shi and said: "Dean Xiao, let's continue this later. Indeed, our Academy's customs needs to be stricter. If there are any more fights, no matter what status both sides are, we will expel both sides."
Xiao Shi gave a respectful bow of agreement before turning to leave. As he passed by Zhou Weiqing, he gave a helpless smile. This incident had also put a lot of pressure on him. After all, he was the Dean of Students, and the discipline of the school was also part of his responsibilities. Many of the nobles could not do anything to the Princess, and instead turned to put pressure on him. If not for Cai Cai's support, he might have been in deep trouble.
As Xiao Shi left, Zhou Weiqing advanced forward a few steps with a big smile on his face. With a courtly bow, he said: "Good morning, Principal."
Cai Cai gave a cold humph and said: "You troublemaker, do you know how much problems you have caused to the academy with your actions?"
Zhou Weiqing said honestly: "It is all my fault, I am so sorry to have caused the Principal and the academy so much trouble. If there needs to be any further punishment, please punish me alone. It was I who couldn't stand it and instigated my classmates to take action. I just beg that I have the chance to continue staying here to learn, and not expel me. I still have mmuch to study and learn."
The Zhou Weiqing now was looking totally sincere and honest, with his expression holding just a hint of depression from being wronged. That look was miles apart from that overjoyed and smug look he had last night after getting two great Followers.
Originally, Cai Cai had called in Zhou Weiqing to give him a big scolding before getting on to the main matter. However, with him admitting his mistakes, apologising and willing to take up the responsibility and any extra punishments, she couldn't help but feel her heart soften.
Everything else aside, just the fact that Zhou Weiqing was willing to take the punishment on behalf of his classmates was extremely admirable, and that willingness to shoulder responsibility and admitting fault was also something she appreciated.
As such, Principal Cai Cai's expression eased up a little, and she said passively: "I hear that you are the class monitor of commoner class one?"
Zhou Weiqing nodded, his eyes reddening as he said: "Yes, my classmates have honoured me. Principal, please do not worry, I will not make things difficult for you. When I go back to class, I will resign my post, I just hope that you do not expel me." Although he said that, our dear Little Fatty was grinning inside his heart. He was highly experienced at taking beatings from his father since a young age, and without even using his eyes, he could just tell from Cai Cai's tone that she had already softened and was on his side. This was likely to result in anything bad for him today.
"Nonsense, what making things difficult for me." Cai Cai exclaimed angrily. "Yesterday, I have already made my decision on the matter, and I will not change it. Do they think that they can pressure me with just the few of them? This is the Fei Li Royal Family Military Academy, not their nobles' backyard!"
Zhou Weiqing wisely kept his mouth shut at this point in time. Things seemed to be going pretty well, and no matter what he said now, it might actually have an adverse effect.
Cai Cai stood up from behind her desk, slowly walking out. Although Zhou Weiqing had his head bowed down, he was still able to see her beautiful and graceful figure. Is she really thirty-five years old? Even a twenty five year old might not be able to compete! He couldn't help but think to himself. This rascal had a zero immune system towards beauty, and couldn't help but swallow a large gulp of saliva. Both of them were princesses, but comparing Difuya and Cai Cai's aura and they way they carried themselves, it was just like night and day.
Cai Cai walked towards Zhou Weiqing and said: "I have already shouldered this matter, and the nobles will not dare to come to the academy grounds to cause trouble. However, I will not be able to stop them from doing anything underhand. After all, I can't possibly send a few men to guard you around the clock. This time, you are way too obvious of a target. Just like you said, you were the one who instigated it. Do not think that you can try to trick me with a few words, I have already understood the entire matter. However, since you still seem sincere in apologising and admitting your mistakes, and the matter is already settled, I will not give you any further punishment. However, in order to ensure your safety, you will have to leave the academy for a short while."
"Ahh? No!" Zhou Weiqing was stunned in his heart, not expecting that Cai Cai would actually ask him to leave. At this point, they were barely two yards apart, and this rascal leapt forward towards Cai Cai, hugging her feet, sobbing as he said: "Principal, don't expel me!! I know I'm wrong… please let me stay…"
Cai Cai had never expected that Zhou Weiqing would suddenly pounce on her out of the sudden, and actually was too surprised to react. In her thirty over years of living, this was the first time she had been so close to a man, and in that instant, she was stunned into silence.
In truth, Zhou Weiqing had not expected to hug Cai Cai. After all, it had been an involuntary reaction, and also he knew she was extremely powerful. After hugging her, Zhou Weiqing's weak willpower regarding females instantly changed again, after all Cai Cai was only wearing a thin teacher's robe, and her slim legs were in his arms, even the feel of them through the robes caused this rascal to bleed from the nose… and onto the robes.
Wow, that was so awesome! The sweet scent from Cai Cai caused Zhou Weiqing to put his face onto her leg, as he started crying in such a heartbroken manner. After all, do not forget who his teacher is… a man with the nickname of God Eye Scoundrel!
Mu En had once told him that in front of those weaker than him, he had to take control, but in front of those clearly stronger than him, he had to be shameless. This was especially so with women. Naturally, our dear Student Little Fatty was following his teacher's instructions, and was enjoying it as he did so.
"Let go of me!" Cai Cai cried out. After a moment of shock where she didn't do anything, her beautiful face flushed totally red, forgetting all about her power, and only just pushing Zhou Weiqing's head away from her legs.
Chapter 205: Five Great Saint Lands (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"No, I won't let go. Principal, you want to get rid of me, if I let go you will throw me out." Zhou Weiqing cried as he held on stubbornly. This rascal's physical strength was after all extremely high, and furthermore, such an advantage, any extra second was a huge advantage!
"Let go of me, I'm not getting rid of you, really! I'm not throwing you out." Even with Cai Cai's usual strong demeanor of a tough woman, she was almost on the verge of tears. That rascal's strength was so high, holding her so tight, and when he tightened his hands, she didn't know if it was on purpose or not, but his hands were already at her buttocks.
"Really?" Zhou Weiqing lifted his head, his hands still locked tight, as he looked at her with a hopeful look.
"Of course it's real, let go of me now!" Cai Cai's face was already beet red.
Although Zhou Weiqing was rather reluctant in his heart, he finally let go. After all, he was afraid that if pushed past the limit, Cai Cai would just use her power and smash his head.
Zhou Weiqing let go of his arms, clambering up slowly and saying ingratiatingly: "Thank you, thank you Principal."
As he let go, Cai Cai staggered back a few steps, her legs a little weak as she leaned on her desk to prevent herself from falling.
"You… You…" Cai Cai pointed at him, caught rather speechless. She felt like beating him up, but knew that he had just been showing his emotions of not wanting to leave the academy. As such, she had a stomach full of anger which could not be expended. The area where he had grabbed was aching a little, and the thing that angered her the most was that rascal had two streaks of blood down his nose, and even her robes were stained with some.
"What's up with your nose?" Cai Cai said angrily.
Zhou Weiqing looked up with an innocent look on his face, saying: "Just now, just now, I struck my head on your legs. Right there." As he said that, he still pointed to her legs, as if he were about to go forward and point it out personally.
"Stand right there, if you touch me again I will kill you." Cai Cai's breathing was rather unsteady as she headed back to her seat, keeping her distance from Zhou Weiqing and preventing him from seeing her legs again, before she finally settled back down.
Zhou Weiqing was grinning to himself secretly. This Principal Cai Cai seems to be even more voluptuous than Ming Hua! He thought to himself. If Shangguan Bing'er were to be described as a beautiful flower on the verge of blooming, Ming Hua would be one which has just bloomed, and Cai Cai would be one which had bloomed and at the peak of its beauty… A ripe fresh fruit. That hug earlier also somehow reminded him of Xiao RuSe, after two years of not meeting her, he imagined that she must have also blossomed well.
After a short period of panic, Cai Cai calmed down. However, the warmth she felt towards Zhou Weiqing earlier had already evaporated, and she said coldly: "Zhou Weiqing, the academy isn't expelling you, and we are just sending you on a mission out of school in order to protect you. The period of time will be three months, and you will return after that, still a student."
"Mission? What mission?" Zhou Weiqing asked curiously as he looked at her questioningly.
Cai Cai said: "This is actually a mission of utmost honour, and if you manage to provide any significant contribution, then not mentioning the over dozen noble families you have provoked, even if you anger my father the King, I can still help you withstand it! Have you heard of the Five Great Saint Lands?"
Zhou Weiqing shook his head blankly as he said: "No, what is that?"
Cai Cai explained: "The Five Great Saint Lands are basically the top five strongest powers in the land. This includes the Top Valley of the East – Passion Valley, the Top Hell of the South – Blood Red Hell, The Top Evil of the West – Heavenly Demon Sect, and the Top Mountain of the North – Heavenly Snow Mountain. Last of all is the Top Palace of the Central – Heaven's Expanse Palace. These five make up the Five Great Saint Lands, and all of them have the top powerful Heavenly Jewel Masters in the entire continent. More importantly, all of their Heavenly Jewel Masters have their own specialities. Amongst them, the strongest would be the Heavenly Snow Mountain and the Heaven's Expanse Palace. The Heavenly Snow Mountain's power is the most obvious, as it has fought against the Heavenly Demon Sect, Passion Valley and Blood Red Hell all by itself and still managed to hold its own. However, each of the Five Great Saint Lands govern themselves, and they do not have much to do with each other. As for the Heaven's Expense Palace, it has always maintained its neutrality, and will usually keep from mixing itself in others' fights. It is situated in the strongest Empire in the entire Continent, the ZhongTian Empire, on a floating island right above the Empire, known as the Heavenly Jewel Island. In truth, it is because of the Heaven's Expense Palace's existence that prevents the Heavenly Snow Mountain from supporting the Wan Shou Empire from starting a war to conquer the world."
"Wait a minute, Principal, what did you just say? Floating island?!" Zhou Weiqing exclaimed in surprise.
Zhou Weiqing nodded and said: "Yes, it can be said so. In truth, it isn't actually floating in the air. It is a huge mountain, but a very strange mountain range. It is almost five thousand metres tall, reaching the clouds, and takes up a huge amount of land mass. However, the center of the mountain is totally empty, with the top part being supported by sixteen 'pillars' of various mountain tops ranging across the entire land mass, making it seem as if it were floating in mid air. Hence, it has been called an Island, and was then given the name of Heavenly Jewel Island."
"The names of the various Five Great Saint Lands were actually given by themselves, and they are actually just the five top strongest groups of Heavenly Jewel Masters. Each of them have some extremely powerful Heavenly Jewel Masters, and as such they have quite a transcended status in the entire continent."
Zhou Weiqing said curiously: "Surely it can't be that the Five Great Saint Lands can actually match the various empires?"
Cai Cai gave a scornful humph and said: "How can that be possible? The power of an individual person is ultimately limited. Even a twelve-Jeweled, God Level, Heavenly Jewel Master would not be able to totally fight against an entire Empire by himself. However, although they do not have the strength of an entire Empire, but it is undoubted that they do not lack of any powerful Heavenly Jewel Masters, powerful beings that could individually effect great changes like killing a general in the midst of an army. As such, even the royal families of the various Empires will not be too willing to offend the Five Great Saint Lands. At the same time, each of the Five Great Saint Lands also have some connection to the empires that they reside in, and in times of need, they also act as the protectors of that particular Empire. The most obvious example would be the Wan Shou Empire. The Heavenly Snow Mountain is just known as the Heavenly Mountain in the Wan Shou Empire, and they can often influence the decisions of the Wan Shou Emperor. With the Heavenly Snow Mountain being the enemy of the other three Great Saint Lands, and the Heaven's Expense Palace being a neutral party, this has formed a scene of all five Empires being in a strange balance."
All of a sudden, a look of surprise entered Zhou Weiqing's eyes as he exclaimed: "Principal, since you have described the Five Great Saint Lands in such detail to me out of the blue… could it be that this mission you mentioned has something to do with them? I… I'm just merely a three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, just a small fry. How could I have anything to do with anything so grand…"
Cai Cai said exasperatedly: "You sure think grandly. Who do you think you are, to be able to influence the Five Great Saint Lands? As you have guessed, your mission does have some connection to the Five Great Saint Lands, and the reason why I introduced them to you is just to let you have some knowledge of them, lest you throw our academy's face."
By now, Zhou Weiqing's curiosity had been sparked. From Cai Cai's tone of speaking, he guessed that the mission shouldn't be too difficult. However, being connected to the Fie Great Saint Lands, it was likely to do with many powerful beings, how could it be easy?"
"Principal, what exactly is this mission? Please reveal some details, so at least I have some preparation in my heart."
Cai Cai said: "Amongst the Five Great Saint Lands, although the Heavenly Snow Mountain seems to have an equal power to the Heaven's Expense Palace, its ranking is still second the Heaven's Expense Palace. This is because the Heavenly Jewel Island does not only contain the Heaven's Expense Palace, but it is also the place where all Heavenly Jewel Masters dream of going. On the Heavenly Jewel Island, it has all sorts of precious materials and treasures like ores and herbs, many of which are absolute top end items for Consolidating Equipment Masters like yourself. It can be said that, all Consolidating Equipment Masters would dream of going to the Heavenly Jewel Island, and it is one of the places where they can advance…
Zhou Weiqing's eyes lit up and he said: "Does that mean the Heaven's Expense Palace often recruits some High Level Consolidating Equipment Masters?"
Cai Cai's eyes showed a helpless look as she said: "It's not just as simple as some Consolidating Equipment Masters… In fact, it can be said that maybe half of the entire Continent's of the high ranking Consolidating Equipment Masters are all in the Heaven's Expense Palace."
"That is also one of the reasons why its ranking and status is so high. There are only three ways to enter the Heavenly Jewel Island. The first is to be a Consolidating Equipment Master who has reached the Grandmaster Rank, and they will be allowed to bring a single Follower to enter the Heavenly Jewel Island. As long as they join, they have an extremely favourable treatment, being able to use their own Consolidating Equipment Scrolls to exchange for the various materials available on the Heavenly Jewel Island. Since making high level Consolidating Equipment Scrolls is the key for the Masters to improve and rank up, you can imagine how many of them are attracted by the favourable conditions to join. Furthermore, the Heaven's Expense Palace has the power to be generous, and the most important condition for them is that they do not restrict the freedom of those Consolidating Equipment Masters, who can leave whenever they want to. As such, in the Consolidating Equipment Master world, the Heaven's Expense Palace is like their background supporter, and can be said to be the most respected place amongst all the Consolidating Equipment Masters. This reason alone has forced the other four Great Saint Lands not to offend the Heaven's Expense Palace, as it is also one of the places to easily find Grandmaster and above Consolidating Equipment Scrolls."
"As for the mission that you will be going on , it actually has to do with another method of entering the Heavenly Jewel Island. Besides the first method I mentioned, there are two more methods. One of which is to get a special permit to enter. This is extremely rare, and usually only for those High Level Zong Stage and above Heavenly Jewel Masters might be able to get one of these permits. The last one is the only way for low level Heavenly Jewel Masters or even Elemental Jewel Masters to enter the Heavenly Jewel Island! That is the great Heavenly Jewel Tournament that is held once every three years."
Zhou Weiqing said curiously: "Heavenly Jewel Tournament?"
Cai Cai nodded and said: "The Heavenly Jewel Tournament was first created to give the various Empires a chance to have some of their people enter the Heavenly Jewel Island. There are just two restrictions for participants of the Grand Tournament. First of all, the participant has to be below the age of thirty, and secondly, the participant has to be a student of one of the Academies of the Empire. Including the Wan Shou Empire, there are a few dozen Empires in the entire Continent, but there are barely a few truly strong ones. The Heavenly Jewel Island will reward the top four Empires of the Tournament, with each of the attendees getting a plaque. With that plaque, one is able to enter the Heavenly Jewel Island three times. At the same time, the Semi-Finals of the Tournament is held in the Heavenly Jewel Island, so the attendees from the top four Empire will already be enter it that time, which isn't included in the three times of the plaque. More importantly, this Heavenly Jewel Plaque is not linked to a particular person, and anyone holding it is able to enter the Heavenly Jewel Island."