Chapter 335: Solidified Dragon Spirit and 'Hate Ground No Handle' Set! (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
As God Tier Consolidating Equipment Masters and powerhouses in their own rights, the three of them could easily see that Lin TianAo's cultivation level was much higher than Zhou Weiqing. As the Fei Li Battle Team leader, it was without question that his capabilities and skills were already in a fixed design or state, and it was likely he had already Consolidated most of his Physical Jewels. At such a point, it was already too late for him to wear a Legendary Set. As such, if they had to custom design one for him, it would likely be just an 'ordinary' God Tier Consolidated Equipment. With the skills of the three Masters together, to design and create a single God Tier Consolidating Equipment was relatively simple. As such, Ye Ruichen planned to finish Lin TianAo's one first before discussing with Wei Yan and Xing Tianyi regarding Zhou Weiqing's Legendary Set pieces. To them, that was the more important task. Although there were only three pieces of the designs, it was already sufficient to provide them with much inspiration and useful fuel for thought.
"Weiqing, this God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll reward should belong to you. I cannot accept it." Lin TianAo finally steeled his resolve to voice out his mind. It had to be known how hard it was for him to say those words, to reject such a temptation. He did not have the sheer talent of Zhou Weiqing, did not have the Demonic Change, nor the various plenty rare Attributes of that Zhou Weiqing had, nor was he a Consolidating Equipment Master. There were some things that Zhou Weiqing could dismiss as less importance, but to Lin TianAo and his experience, they were things that could not be dismissed easily.
Zhou Weiqing lifted up his hand to Lin TianAo's shoulders, silencing him. "Leader, enough said. This time, for us to enter the Tournament, you are our official leader. Perhaps, I might have a slightly higher contribution, but without you, or any of the team, we could not have entered the top four. You are the pillar of our Battle Team, and also the soul of it. This is truly what you deserve. Furthermore, even if you argue that it isn't so, don't forget that we are now tied together. The stronger you are, the better it is for me as well. Also, I am currently only at the three-Jeweled cultivation stage and I already have two Consolidated Equipment; this time I have already gone through a trade with the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and the three Masters will be creating three God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scrolls for me, and that will be more than sufficient for me to use for quite a while. So, Leader, you do not need to be so courteous with me. Take what you deserve, you need this reward more than I do."
No one in the Fei Li Battle Team knew about the trade between Zhou Weiqing and Heaven's Expanse Palace, only Tian'er knew a bit about it. When Lin TianAo heard about it, especially that he would gain three God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll, his eyes bulged out in shock. Although this was the Heavenly Jewel Island, since when were God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scrolls so commonplace?!
Seeing the two of them giving way to each other, Xing Tianyi nodded slightly in approval, and Wei Yang was smiling faintly. Even the previously impatient Ye Ruichen's gaze turned gentle.
As a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master, their greatest hope was naturally that they could research, design and create the best Consolidating Equipment. However, at the same time, they hoped that the Consolidating Equipments they created could be used by those with good characters. No matter Zhou Weiqing or Lin TianAo, both of them were willing to give up a God Tier Consolidating Equipment to each other, this was more than enough to see their characters. Although the three Masters did not say anything, they nodded inwardly to themselves.
Lin TianAo was still hesitating, but Zhou Weiqing had already dragged him to the front, saying in a mysterious tone: "Old Ye, although this big bro of mine is only getting a single God Tier Consolidating Equipment, the difficulty is not simple at all. Heh. Big bro, show the three Masters your current Consolidating Equipment."
As a Consolidating Equipment Master himself, Zhou Weiqing knew how tough it was to continue creating Consolidating Equipment for Lin TianAo. For his Assembly Set Shield, the more pieces one added to it, the difficulty in creating the next piece grew exponentially. For example, his first shield was merely a low level Consolidating Equipment Scroll, the second already a mid level one, the third a high level one, while both fourth and fifth were Grandmaster ones.
In order to continue with the Assembly Shield Set, it would undoubtedly be increasingly difficult. If it were just simply to continue his sixth shield, it would be simple for these three God Tier Masters; after all, a simple Low Level Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Scroll would do, it was just take a little design work on their part.
However, according to the Heavenly Jewel Tournament rules, Lin TianAo should receive a God Tier Consolidating Equipment, and if they were to try to add a God Tier Consolidating Equipment as the sixth piece of his Assembly Set, that would be a lot more difficult indeed.
Lin TianAo looked at Zhou Weiqing for a while, but did not say anything else. Circulating his Heavenly Energy, he released his Heavenly Jewels and summoned his Assembly Shield Set for the three Masters to see clearly. As the shield formed right in front of them, it made a clanging sound that rang throughout the silent hall, and looking at the five shields assembling into one, even the three Masters couldn't help but reveal a slight surprise on their faces.
It could be said that Assembly Set Consolidating Equipment were not rare, but for one to start it on their first Consolidating Equipment and continue all the way to the fifth, this was indeed extremely rare. This was especially so for someone like Lin TianAo, whose attributes were already the Ultimate Defense, and with this Assembly Set Shield as a complement. Someone of such extremes was indeed even rarer.
Furthermore, generally speaking, most Assembly Set Consolidating Equipment were usually weapons, as these Heavenly Jewel Masters would depend on their Assembly Set Weapons and their strong burst of offense to defeat their enemies swiftly. It wasn't that nobody had ever chosen to use an Assembly Set Shield, but it was indeed highly rare for a Heavenly Jewel Master to totally give up their own offensive capabilities. As such, previous Assembly Shield Sets were at most two to three pieces.
Ye Ruichen nodded slightly and said: "Interesting… very interesting indeed. Little fellow, you are thinking to continue with this Assembly Shield Set, or are you looking to make an individual powerful weapon?"
Before Lin TianAo could reply, Wei Yang pursed her lips scornfully at the side and said: "Are you trying to act foolish? Weiqing already said that this would be troublesome even for us, naturally that means he wants to continue with the Assembly Set. Otherwise, how could an ordinary God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll be of any trouble to us? However, in any case, this isn't any big trouble at all."
Ye Ruichen said exasperatedly: "Not a big trouble?! If the sixth shield were to be a God Tier Consolidating Equipment, that isn't an easy task at all. Furthermore, what would his future ones be like… he would have to somehow have them all be God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scrolls as well, otherwise he can't continue with his Assembly Set. How could this not be a big trouble?"
Wei Yang gave a disdainful humph and said: "What do you know! His first five shields have a very good foundation and are designed and layered on very well. This sixth shield is indeed not suitable to use a God Tier Consolidating Equipment, but that doesn't mean the future ones aren't as well. In truth, it is easy to solve his problem, as long as we help him continue the Assembly Set before the God Tier piece, naturally all of it will fall into place."
As she said that, she turned to Lin TianAo and continued: "The situation is like this little fellow – if you truly want to carry on with your defenses to the max and flourish your Assembly Set all the way to the end, your sixth shield cannot be at the God Tier level. Otherwise, you can never even reach the tenth shield."
Even though they were God Tier Consolidating Equipment Masters, when they were helping others calculate their future development strength, they wouldn't foolishly calculate up to the twelfth Jewel. Calculating up to the Heavenly King Stage (10) was already usually the max. Of course, Legendary Sets aside.
Lin TianAo was much more respectful than Zhou Weiqing, bowing as he said: "Please Senior, direct this junior, I will definitely listen and follow."
Wei Yang nodded and said: "I like Weiqing a lot, and I can see that you two are really close. Very well, it is your lucky day. According to the current situation of your Assembly Shield Set, I will suggest that your sixth, seventh and eighth piece be made of Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, and only the ninth piece be at the God Tier Consolidating Equipment level. This way, not only will it be able to continue on your current Assembly Set's sequencing and formation, it will also continue building on its foundation and be more properly defined in its Assembly. As such, despite being of lower rank, the overall boost in power when assembled together is multiplied exponentially. At the same time, in theory at least, it will also allow your Assembly Shield Set to raise all the way up to the twelve Jewel stage. The reason why I suggest you start with the God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll at the ninth Jewel is because the Upper Zong Stage level is considered the impossible bottleneck for almost all Heavenly Jewel Masters. When you reach that level, if you have a God Tier Consolidating Equipment to help you then, it will also be of aid to help you in breaking through to the Heavenly King Stage."
Hearing Wei Yang, a God Tier Master of such experience, with her words and advice, Lin TianAo instantly felt as if a new door had opened in front of him, the path clear. Nodding his head repeatedly, he said: "Thank you Senior, but how could I possibly gain another three Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Shields?"
Zhou Weiqing's observational skills and people's skills were top notch, and he quickly cut in: "Big brother, that's where you are wrong already. You should quickly thank Aunty Wei Yang, since Aunty Wei Yang has already brought it up, that means she is already willing to help you complete all your front few Zong Stage Assembly Shields as well!"
Upon hearing Zhou Weiqing call her Aunty, Wei Yang started. As the saying goes, you might hit a snake with a stick but it could climb right up along the stick 1, and after a moment of being taken aback, Wei Yang couldn't help but smile to herself.
Ye Ruichen's eyes widened and he exclaimed: "Weiqing, you little fellow, what did you call her? Aunty? She can already be your grandmother, with many years to boot!"
Zhou Weiqing widened his eyes in surprise, saying: "Really?! But… From what I see, Aunty Wei Yang is only at the age to be my aunt! Old Ye, you shouldn't try to fool this young junior."
Before Ye Ruichen could open his mouth again, Wei Yang said: "If he wants to call me Aunty then so be it! Weiqing is right, Lin TianAo, leave your Assembly Shield Set to me, I will help you up to your ninth piece. As for your Scrolls after that, it will have to depend on your own self."
Hearing Wei Yang's words, Lin TianAo was overjoyed, bowing deeply once more with his face filled with gratitude. He was extremely clear that if he truly managed to get his Assembly Shield Set all the way to nine Jewels, that would be an amazing feat indeed. Furthermore, one of the pieces would be a God Tier Consolidated Equipment! Breaking through to the Heavenly King Stage was something nobody could guarantee, not even someone as talented as Zhou Weiqing, there was always the possibility of being stuck at the nine Jeweled stage. As such, to be able to reach a peak strength at the nine-Jeweled stage was something almost every Heavenly Jewel Master worked towards.
If Lin TianAo's Assembly Shield Set could go all the way to nine pieces, combined with his Ultimate Defense Attributes, he would undoubtedly be a fortress in his own right. At that point, even a Heavenly King Stage powerhouse might not be able to break his defences.
Xing Tianyi smiled faintly, saying: "In that case, let us begin. I will start mixing and creating the Consolidating Ink for Weiqing's three Legendary Set pieces. Wei Yang, Ruichen, you two join forces to come up with the rest of the Assembly Set Shield designs, and create them. Once you two are done, come over to help me and the three of us can join forces to complete the Legendary Set pieces."
Wei Yang and Ye Ruichen nodded their heads. Without a doubt, that was the best arrangement. With their skill in creating Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, with the designs in hand, even a Legendary Set was not too difficult.
Chapter 336: Shock and Tragedy! (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
As time passed day by day, the three Masters grew even busier since the day Zhou Weiqing and Lin TianAo arrived.
After that day, Lin TianAo returned back to the inn to rejoin the rest of the Battle Team. After discussion with Zhou Weiqing, the Fei Li Battle Team decided to stay in the Heavenly Jewel Island until they could all collect their scrolls and leave. With the three Masters working together, it was estimated that it would barely take a month to complete all their Scrolls. After all, even though Zhou Weiqing's Legendary Set was not easy to create, he only needed a single Scroll per Equipment.
They had already been away for such a long time, and Zhou Weiqing wanted to get back to the Fei Li Empire as soon as possible. Although Bing'er could not leave anytime soon, he still had many things to do in the Fei Li Military Academy. Feelings and relationships were very important, but the goal in his heart had never wavered as well – to help the Heavenly Bow Empire grow strong.
As such, after much thought, Zhou Weiqing had decided to give up attempting to gain extra Legendary Set pieces from the three Masters, telling them the secret that he only required one Scroll to successfully Consolidate Equipment.
The three Masters had treated him very well, and Zhou Weiqing's honesty let their impression of him grow even more favourable.
As such, in the next thirty seven days after Lin TianAo returned to the inn, Zhou Weiqing did not leave the laboratory hall. He spent every single day together with the three Masters; although his Consolidating Equipment Master skill was not sufficient to help the three Masters, he could still be a minor assistant.
With the prowess of the Three Masters at creating Consolidating Equipment, it caused a deep and lasting impression and influence on Zhou Weiqing. Although the three Masters could not take him as disciple, they were not stingy in teaching this young man with the utmost suitable talents in the field of Consolidating Equipment Masters, and had a good character to boot. Of course, this was also because they knew that Zhou Weiqing was the future son in law of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and the Heaven's Expanse Palace had agreed to let him watch them, otherwise Zhou Weiqing might not have learned anything so easily.
Three days after Zhou Weiqing started his closed door training with the three Masters, Little Witch left. Her mission had been fulfilled, and she needed to return to the Heavenly Demon Sect as soon as possible in case any trouble occurred. After all, her true identity was easily discovered.
As for the others, they naturally were in no hurry to leave. The Heavenly Jewel Island was not only beautiful and with a great atmosphere, great air; more importantly, the Heavenly Energy here was extremely thick and strong. Training here was definitely much faster and more efficient for anyone; this was even more so for those Heavenly Jewel Masters like them who were at a lower cultivation level.
With Shangguan Longyin's promise, their food and lodging were all free, and the rest of the team, led by Lin TianAo, settled down quietly to wait for Zhou Weiqing.
This time, attending the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, it could be said that each and every one of the Fei Li Battle Team members had gained massively throughout. Besides the large amount of combat experience and improvement in cultivation level or the money they had won betting, just the two Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Scrolls they had gained alone more than enough to put a huge grin on their faces. Besides the one that Zhou Weiqing had given them, each member of the Champion Battle Team had gotten another set of Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, and they could just pick one out from the Consolidating Equipment Pavilion.
As soon as their cultivation levels reached the sufficient requirement, the entire power level of the whole Fei Li Battle Team would rise up to a whole new level.
…
37 days later.
When a disheveled and unkempt Zhou Weiqing returned to the inn where the Fei Li Battle Team members were staying, his appearance was just too shocking. Crow couldn't recognize him on first sight and almost kicked him out of the inn.
It took almost two hours of cleaning and grooming before Zhou Weiqing finally resumed his original appearance.
"Weiqing, don't tell me that in the last thirty seven days you have not bathed at all?!" Drunken Bao looked at the freshly cleaned Zhou Weiqing, whose skin was clearly paler from more than a month of not seeing the sun, and said helplessly.
Zhou Weiqing gave a bitter smile and said: "Just a simple cleaning, yes, but there were just too many things to do every day, so many things to learn, there was just no time for me to properly wash up! When the Masters are creating the Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, every step of the way, every little move has such deep meaning behind it. This opportunity is such a rare chance for me, and perhaps I will never get to experience anything like it in the future. So… even if I can't learn everything, I will just have to memorize everything I possibly can. Heh, when I become a powerful Consolidating Equipment Master in the future, you guys won't have to worry about your Consolidating Equipment Scrolls anymore!"
As he said that, Zhou Weiqing took out four simple black boxes from his Spatial Realm, and handed it to Lin TianAo.
Instantly, Lin TianAo's gaze turned searing hot. Without question, the four boxes contained the four future Consolidating Equipment Shields for his Assembly Set, including one God Tier Stage one!
Silently keeping the four boxes into his Spatial Realm, the heat in Lin TianAo's eyes slowly faded away, to be replaced by a resolute determination.
Sweeping his gaze across the other members of the Fei Li Battle Team, Lin TianAo suddenly said slowly and solemnly: "I have something to proclaim to all of you…"
Hearing his words, Zhou Weiqing seemed to understand something. He did not speak, instead sitting down silently to the side. The other member's eyes turned to focus on Lin TianAo.
Drawing a deep breath, Lin TianAo continued: "This year's Heavenly Jewel Tournament is finally over, and this is also the final step in my journey in the Heavenly Jewel Academy. From today onwards, I have graduated, and am a free man, and I will no longer be your team leader anymore. When we return to the Fei Li Empire, I will not return to the Academy anymore. My deepest gratitude to all of you for accompanying me on this final journey of mine in my studying years, and to give it a perfect ending."
Xiao Yan, normally of few words, couldn't help but ask: "Big bro, you aren't returning to the Academy? Where are you going then? This is also my graduation… Where are you going, I will follow you…"
Lin TianAo looked at Zhou Weiqing, then turned back to the rest, saying: "At this point, there is no need for me to hide anything from the rest of you any longer. In truth, before we began the journey to the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, I had already become Weiqing's Lifetime Follower. However, he was kind enough to give me this three months of my own time to come join this Heavenly Jewel Tournament."
"What?!" Besides Zhou Weiqing, a surprised chorus burst forth from everyone's mouths.
The most shocked was definitely Ye Paopao. He had seen Lin TianAo's power with his own eyes. Perhaps in this Heavenly Jewel Tournament, Lin TianAo's showing had not been the most dazzling or eye catching, but it was without a doubt that in the entire Fei Li Empire's younger generation, no one could compete with him. It was clear that Lin TianAo would definitely be a powerhouse in his own right in the future, an unbelievably strong ultimate defense Heavenly Jewel Master.
Someone like this was an immense aid to anyone, as a partner or Follower. Instantly, an influx of emotions swamped Ye Paopao, envy, jealousy…
Lin TianAo smiled faintly, but there was no bitterness in it at all. He began to tell the story of how he had met Zhou Weiqing, of how he had witnessed Zhou Weiqing betting with Yun Li, and how he had tried to seize the opportunity to bet with the two of them… all of it in a relative summary.
"...….. Greed caused me to lose my freedom, but there is no such thing was 'Regret Medicine' in this world. A loss is a loss, and I am willing to own up to it. However, at that time, for the sake of this final Heavenly Jewel Tournament, I asked Weiqing for a three month break, and he agreed. At that time, all I thought was that no matter what, I just wanted to put in my all for this Tournament before thinking about the future. Besides this Heavenly Jewel Tournament, my future seemed totally bleak."
"However, who knew that Weiqing would be like a nightmare following me, ending up as my teammate to join this Heavenly Jewel Tournament. At first, I was rather unhappy and unconvinced deep in my heart, feeling like I had lost in such an unjust fashion. However, as time passed, and we fought battle after battle together… I'm sure all of you have seen what Weiqing has done throughout, and there is no need for me to say anything further. In any case, in terms of cultivation level, he is perhaps the lowest amongst us, but I dare say that in terms of overall power… he is the strongest."
"More importantly, after interacting with him for these few months, I have truly gotten to know Weiqing. His intelligence, wit, decisive resolution, bravery, unswerving will, his strength and talents, yet without arrogance. It is as if I can see his future… and being able to Follow someone like this, a genius Heavenly Jewel Master and Consolidating Equipment Master who I believe can create a miracle in the future, I now feel that I am too lucky."
As he spoke up to this point, Lin TianAo abruptly stood up, taking a step forward towards Zhou Weiqing, and went down on one knee. "From today onwards, the Fei Li Battle Team Leader Lin TianAo no longer exists; there is only Zhou Weiqing's Follower Lin TianAo!"
Zhou Weiqing was taken aback by the sudden kneeling, and he quickly stepped forward to grab Lin TianAo's arm to pull him up. At this point, the entire room was dead silent.
Xiao Yan's eyes were filled with shock, and Drunken Bao and Little Four had their heads bowed low. Crow was also staring at the two of them in a confused loss, while Ye Paopao's eyes was filled with envy.
All of a sudden, Xiao Yan also stood up and walked beside Lin TianAo, a faint smile appearing on his face. Facing Lin TianAo, he said: "Leader, do you think you can get rid of me so easily? That's not possible. Weiqing, do you still want another Temporary Follower?"
Could there be anything better? How could Zhou Weiqing possibly reject such an outstanding and talented Heavenly Jewel Master like Xiao Yan. Without hesitation, he said: "I do, of course I do!"
Xiao Yan said: "Very good, then I am willing to become your Follower as well. Of course, you must continue improving on your part as well, otherwise if I find that you are no longer worth me Following, I will not hesitate to leave, even if Leader still stands by your side."
Zhou Weiqing grinned and said shamelessly: "Following a future Heavenly God Master, you will not regret this!"
At this point, Drunken Bao also lifted up his head, but the one he looked to was Little Four beside him. "Brother, I am ashamed of ourselves for breaking our own vow. We are all true men, and we can hold ourselves to our own words. Since Leader can do it, how can we not as well? No matter what you chose, I have already made up my mind. Weiqing, I also want to be your Lifetime Follower… not just because of Leader, but also because I have already lost to you a long time back. Give me a Seal."
As he said that, he too stood up resolutely and walked in front of Zhou Weiqing, going down on one knee.
Little Four stood up as well as cried out angrily: "Damn! Do you think I'm not a man of my word?! Weiqing, I too will keep my promise. Come on!"
Chapter 337: Shock and Tragedy! (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Happiness seemed to come so suddenly, leaving Zhou Weiqing rather caught off guard. He quickly supported the two up, saying: "Sealing isn't required, do you think I have no trust in your characters? We are all good brothers, and we are still a team."
Upon saying that, Zhou Weiqing turned to Lin TianAo, saying: "I will no longer call you Leader, but you will always be my big brother." As soon as his words ended, a silver light flashed, and instantly Zhou Weiqing appeared beside Lin TianAo. His speed was just too fast, and no one had expected him to move so suddenly with a Blink Skill. In that moment, his palm pressed upon Lin TianAo's forehead.
A dark red light shone forth, and before Lin TianAo could react or resist, it was too late.
The dark red Seal rose above his skin, and was silently erased, and when Zhou Weiqing removed his right hand, Lin TianAo stood there, stunned. The others were also equally stunned, their eyes filled with disbelief.
That was because… Zhou Weiqing had actually removed the Blood Rites – Seal of Darkness he had on Lin TianAo.
Ye Paopao totally could not believe what had happened before his eyes. This Zhou Weiqing had actually let go of such an outstanding Follower with such future like Lin TianAo?!
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly, looking into Lin TianAo's eyes before saying: "I said just now, we will be brothers in the future. You are my big brother, and no matter what you decide, I will not begrudge any decision you make. If there is any Seal between us brothers, how can I be fit to be called your brother, right?"
Before Lin TianAo could say anything, Drunken Bao had hugged Zhou Weiqing around his neck hard, laughing heartily as he said: "Weiqing, Bro has not misjudged you indeed. Well done indeed!"
Xiao Yan and Little Four also laughed happily. Strangely, Lin TianAo did not speak. After the short moment of surprise, his expression resumed to normal. Some things were not meant to be spoken. No matter whether he had the Seal of Darkness upon him or not, in his mind, he would forever be Zhou Weiqing's Lifetime Follower.
Ye Paopao suddenly said: "Crow, what's wrong?" He was after all the son of the Premier of the Fei Li Empire, and naturally could not follow suit behind the rest of the team and become Zhou Weiqing's Follower. He had inadvertently been looking around and spotted Crow, who had also not expressed anything yet, and couldn't help but start at the look at her. She was currently wearing a distressed, woebegotten expression on her face.
With the bitter look on her face, Crow said: "I also want to be your brothers… to be with you all always. But… but… I have to go look for my fiance… I … I …"
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "Even if you go look for fiance, how can that stop us from being bros? When we return to the Fei Li Empire, I will help you look for him!"
The flavour of the Fei Li Battle Team had definitely changed. The team was still the same, but it was no longer with the basis of 'Fei Li'. Zhou Weiqing had taken control indeed.
Being able to gain the support of these companions, it was far beyond the help that gaining the support of his entire class at the Fei Li Military Academy.
"Zhou Weiqing." Just as the atmosphere was going well and harmonious, a cold voice suddenly rang out from outside.
Zhou Weiqing turned to look, and without knowing when, Shangguan Xue'er was standing right outside the door. She still had her cold aura and impassive expression on, the light blue dress she was wearing accentuating that cold feeling she gave off.
"Shangguan Xue'er?" Zhou Weiqing looked at her curiously. It was obvious from her expression and aura that this was not Bing'er, who would not treat him this way. However, no matter facing either of her other two sisters, Shangguan Xue'er or Fei'er, Zhou Weiqing had a terrible headache.
Both of them were Bing'er's sisters, and with that relationship in mind, he could never do anything against them, even if he could bring himself to – considering how much they looked like Bing'er. However, Zhou Weiqing had also suffered many disadvantages at their hands. Previously, Shangguan Xue'er had giving him a heavy tight slap, while Shangguan Fei'er had knocked him off his feet, almost making him fall into pieces. Facing these two, in truth he would rather keep a respectful distance if possible.
Shangguan Xue'er nodded towards Zhou Weiqing, saying passively: "Come with me." After saying that, she did not pause and turned to leave.
Zhou Weiqing followed her hesitatingly, and she stopped after a turn in the inn corridor, silently waiting for him to catch up.
"Ice Mountain Girl, why are you here looking for me?" Zhou Weiqing stopped about two metres from her, asking teasingly.
Although he did not have any designs on Shangguan Xue'er, especially since she was the heir and future Palace Master of the Heaven's Expanse Palace, this little rascal could not help having some fantasies in the past about 'gaining' all three sisters, especially after knowing they were triplets… Heh heh…
Of course, all of that were just fantasies secretly in his heart. Everything else, if Shangguan Bing'er knew that our dear Zhou Little Fatty was thinking about her sisters that way, she would definitely not let him off.
In truth, it was perhaps normal for Zhou Weiqing to have such thoughts. Any normal man would definitely fantasize about something like that!
When Shangguan Xue'er heard him call her 'Ice Mountain Girl', with his eyes roving over her body like a little scoundrel, the anger in her heart rose uncontrollably again.
Just like how Shangguan Tianyue was unable to control himself when facing Zhou Weiqing, this young lady who had her first kiss stolen by this little rascal was the same.
However, Shangguan Xue'er did not flare up. That was because… today was a very unique circumstance. No matter how hateful he was today, she would not lose her temper at him.
"You are from the Heavenly Bow Empire… right?" Shangguan Xue'er said coldly.
Zhou Weiqing started. He had not expected that Shangguan Xue'er would ask such a question. A questioning look in his eyes, he said: "Yes, I am! Why? Shouldn't Bing'er have told you that a long time ago?"
Shangguan Xue'er furrowed her brow, remaining silent for a moment, before giving a soft sigh. Softly, she said: "I hope that you can remain calm after hearing my words."
Hearing her words, Zhou Weiqing's originally joyous heart sank like a rock, a gnawing feeling in his stomach rising. If the person who said this to him had been Shangguan Fei'er, perhaps he would not have taken it to heart. However, this was Shangguan Xue'er in front of him, the heir to the Heaven's Expanse Palace. With her status, she would not make some low class joke like that to him. The only reason she could say something like that … could only mean that something had happened to the Heavenly Bow Empire.
With the topic involving his own home, the Indecorous, joking appearance that Zhou Weiqing had up disappeared instantly. Pausing a second to calm himself down, he finally turned to Shangguan Xue'er and said: "Okay, please tell me the news."
Shangguan Xue'er looked at him meaningfully before saying: "Yesterday, we just received news that the Kalise Empire received support from the Bai Da Empire. They seized the opportunity that Admiral Zhou from the Heavenly Bow Empire had returned to the Heavenly Bow City and launched a surprise attack. Striking with a force of ten times that of the border troops of the Heavenly Bow Empire, they struck right into the heart, swiftly invading deep into the Heavenly Bow Empire territories right into the Heavenly Bow City."
"What?!" Even though Zhou Weiqing had been prepared for some bad news, but this was just too sudden and too immense. Shaken immensely, his face turned ashen pale.
At this point, Zhou Weiqing had totally forgotten about the 'dangers' of Shangguan Xue'er, with a quick step forward, he grabbed her by her deceptively frail looking shoulders, shouting: "What… What did you say?!"
Shaken by the shoulders, Shangguan Xue'er gently knocked his hands away, but did not do anything further. She did not know why, but when she saw this young man in front of her pouncing towards her like an injured wild beast, she did not dodge. Especially when she saw that terrifying bloodshot eyes of his, she somehow felt a small sharp pain in her heart.
"Calm down." Shangguan Xue'er lifted her hand and slapped it lightly against Zhou Weiqing's forehead. Immediately, a cool sensation traveled to his head, causing his boiling blood to calm down slightly.
Zhou Weiqing's breathing was laboured, and at this point, the Fei Li Battle Team had rushed out of the room to his back, clearly having heard his previous cry.
Shangguan Xue'er ignored them, continuing: "We have confirmed reports that it is definitely true. The Bai Da Empire must have planned this for a while, using the Kalise Empire as a springboard, launching their attacks from several directions. Unfortunately, the Heavenly Bow Empire's army strength is just too low, and I'm afraid your entire Empire is probably occupied by now."
Regaining some measure of his calmness, Zhou Weiqing said in a trembling voice: "What about now? How about the Heavenly Bow City?"
The Heavenly Bow Empire was his homeland, and his entire family was there. His parents, godfather, Sis Ru Se, his teachers in the Heavenly Bow Unit… All his loved ones!
A sudden war… a swift and abrupt invasion. Zhou Weiqing's heart and mind was utterly confused and disconcerted. At the moment, he wished that he could grow a pair of wings, to fly right back to the Heavenly Bow Empire, to find his father and fight together with him.
Shangguan Xue'er said: "The Bai Da Empire was just too determined and well planned in their execution of the attack. The one who led the attack was the Empire Master of the Bai Da Empire, their top powerhouse, a Heavenly Jewel Master of Heavenly King Stage. With him were six other Upper Level Zong Stage Heavenly Jewel Masters. By the time the news travelled to us, it has already been around five days from the start of the attack… and with the massive difference in power… I'm afraid that even Admiral Zhou will not be able to do anything to save the capital city. By now… The Heavenly Bow City should be…"
Zhou Weiqing's body swayed, and Lin TianAo who was behind him quickly supported him, if not he would have collapsed onto the ground.
Currently, Zhou Weiqing felt as if his body was feeble and totally devoid of strength, and tears streamed uncontrollably from his eyes. Lin TianAo was supporting him fully, and could sense that Zhou Weiqing's entire body was trembling violently. His emotions were fluctuating at an insane peak, and even his skin was starting to show the tiger tattoos of his Demonic Change State as he began to lose control.
Shangguan Xue'er took two steps forward towards Zhou Weiqing and said firmly: "The matter has already happened, and already to an irreversible point. Even if the Fei Li Empire got the news and counterattacked, it is already too late to save your Heavenly Bow Empire. I have not told Bing'er this news yet… she is at a critical point in her closed door cultivation, and I do not wish for her to be affected adversely by it yet. I hope you understand. This is all I can tell you so far. Father asked me to tell you not to return to the Heavenly Bow Empire now. A mantis cannot stop a chariot1, and to attempt to do so would not be wise. You are the last hope of the Heavenly Bow Empire."
Chapter 338: Shock and Tragedy! (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
After saying that, she looked deeply at Zhou Weiqing once more before sighing lightly, and turning to leave.
Zhou Weiqing did not know when Shangguan Xue'er left; his mind was a total blank. The other members of the Fei Li Battle Team also had ugly expressions on their faces. Just a moment ago, they had all been celebrating together, filled with brotherly emotions and happiness for their achievements together. Yet, just a short moment later, Zhou Weiqing had suffered such a nigh-fatal blow.
In a white flash, Fat Cat warped into Tian'er, softly standing by Zhou Weiqing's side. She received him from Lin TianAo's hands, embracing him fully.
Normally, if this happened, Zhou Weiqing would be unbelievably delighted, definitely seizing the opportunity to take advantage of her. However, the current him was staring ahead with empty eyes, as if zombified and devoid of will, and he did not even attempt to move at all, letting Tian'er hold him limply.
At such a time, no one knew how to comfort him. His homeland had been invaded and destroyed, an entire Empire. Friends, family… even the land which he had grown up in was now the property of its invader's. Such a massive blow, it wasn't something that could be easily recovered from.
Tian'er supported Zhou Weiqing back to his room. Regarding her identity, the other members of the Fei Li Battle Team knew only a little, but no one would ask more questions at this time. In their hearts, Tian'er was at least much more acceptable than Little Witch; after all, she had been following beside Zhou Weiqing since they met him.
Helping Zhou Weiqing to sit on the bed, Tian'er rested his head on her bosom. At this time, she did not have any thoughts of steering clear or avoiding him, allowing him to rest on her bountiful chest, as if trying to use her warmth to comfort his heart.
"Weiqing, at such a time, you must be strong. Shangguan Xue'er is right, you are the last hope of the Heavenly Bow Empire."
Zhou Weiqing did not make any sound, but the tears in his eyes slowly stopped, and the glaze behind his eyes slowly disappeared as his vision consolidated once more. However, his eyes seemed totally different from the past now; no longer was there that spirited and cheerful light, just a cold resolution.
Sitting up slowly, Zhou Weiqing took a few deep breaths, calming down his body's trembling. He turned to Tian'er and said: "Could you go out for a while, I just need to be quiet and alone for a short while."
Tian'er hesitated a moment, before standing up. Hugging his head, she gave him a light kiss on his forehead before turning and walking out, closing the door behind her. She believed that her Weiqing would definitely be able to pull himself together.
Just like that, Zhou Weiqing sat there, silent, unmoving. It was as if he had become a statue. Although he did not enter the Demonic Change State, in the dark room, his eyes were clearly bloodshot.
…
In Lin TianAo's room.
Lin TianAo looked at the rest of the team, then said softly: "No matter what Weiqing decides, I will go together with him. If the rest of you have any other plans, you should leave now. I will not blame you."
Nobody knew what Zhou Weiqing would decide upon doing; if he made up his mind to return to the Heavenly Bow Empire, then it would definitely be entering the dragon's den, a hazardous, almost suicidal mission indeed. As such, Lin TianAo spoke those words. If they wished, for them to leave before Zhou Weiqing made such a decision.
Drunken Bao said angrily: "Boss, what kind of people do you treat us as?! At such a time, it is even more important for us to be by Weiqing's side. Hmph. Even such an impossible task as the Heavenly Jewel Tournament championship, we have accomplished it, what else is there to be afraid of?! What kind of bullshit is this Bai Da Empire, Your Father, I, have long since wanted to look for trouble with them!"
Xiao Yan and Little Four both nodded their heads in agreement. Crow furrowed her brow and said: "It looks like I will have to delay looking for my fiance for a while."
Ye Paopao said: "I will not be joining you guys, adding just me alone won't make a difference. I will head back to the Fei Li Empire immediately; my father is the Premier, and if we can launch an attack from the Fei Li Empire towards the Bai Da Empire, that will be the greatest help to Weiqing."
Lin TianAo nodded and said: "That is a good choice. Paopao, you return to the Fei Li Empire then, at least find out everything you can about the Heavenly Bow Empire, especially what happened to Weiqing's family. As long as they are still alive, then we have a chance to rescue them…"
Ye Paopao nodded and said: "There is no time to waste then, I will leave immediately. I will do my best."
After saying that, he immediately packed up and left the Heavenly Jewel Island. After all, though it was difficult to enter the Heavenly Jewel Island, there was no restrictions on leaving at any time.
Ye Paopao had left swiftly, but the next day was was a slow torturous one for the rest of the team. Zhou Weiqing's room remained silent, and though they tried several times to go see him, they were stopped by Tian'er who was standing outside the door. The current Zhou Weiqing needed time alone, quiet.
…
The next morning, when Zhou Weiqing appeared in front of them again, it gave them a shock. Just from appearance alone, he did not seem very different, but those blood red eyes and pale skin was indeed terrifying. It was clear that he had not slept in that whole day and night.
In truth, not only did Zhou Weiqing not sleep at all, during the whole time he had sat there unmoving. He was only seventeen years old this year, but now he suddenly looked as if he had aged and matured, as if he were the same age as Drunken Bao or Little Four.
"Weiqing, no matter what you decide to do, we have already decided to follow you…" Lin TianAo stepped forward, giving Zhou Weiqing a big hug.
Zhou Weiqing also clapped him on the back and said: "Everyone, do not worry. I am alright."
Drunken Bao waved his fist in the air and said: "Weiqing, in that case, let's charge to the Heavenly Bow Empire and kill all those Bai Da Empire bastards!"
To everyone's surprise, Zhou Weiqing shook his head. The current him was cold and calm, almost to a terrifying degree.
"No, we will not return to the Heavenly Bow Empire. We need to stay in the Heavenly Jewel Island for a short while more. I estimate… at least ten days to a month, then we shall return to the Fei Li Empire."
"En?" Zhou Weiqing's words left the entire Fei Li Battle Team confused.
Returning to the Fei Li Empire, they could understand it. Without question, that was the best thing to do at this moment. Heading to the Fei Li Empire as a base of operations before deciding their next step was definitely better than charging into the Heavenly Bow Empire without a plan and virtually committing suicide. However, the wait was what confused them all.
Zhou Weiqing said: "You all do not need to worry about me, just stay here for a while. I will be gone for a time; when I return, we can leave for the Fei Li Empire."
After saying that, he vanished in a flash, leaving the inn swiftly.
"Where is he going?" Drunken Bao asked curiously.
Lin TianAo furrowed his brow, shaking his head to signal that he was also not sure.
Tian'er's voice rang out: "He should be heading to the Heavenly Jewel Island's Skill Storing Palace. If my guess isn't wrong, he should be trying to bring his cultivation level to the fourth Jewel stage, to power up as much as possible before leaving the Heavenly Jewel Island. I do not know what he was thinking about yesterday, but I am sure that he must have thought things through clearly and planned ahead about the future."
Indeed, Tian'er's guess was not wrong. Zhou Weiqing was currently in the Skill Storing Palace, once again choosing Heavenly Beasts with the Darkness and Demonic Attributes, using the Devour Skill to cultivate as fast as possible.
Previously, when he had accompanied the three Masters and was watching and learning as they created the Consolidating Equipment Scrolls for the thirty seven days, he had also been cultivating. After all, his Immortal Deity Technique did not require him to specially cultivate and would automatically continue improving due to the energy whirlpools. This was especially so in an environment like the Heavenly Jewel Island, with its intense and thick atmospheric energy.
As such, although Zhou Weiqing had broken through to the fifteenth stage of the Heavenly Energy not long ago, but he had already stabilized and improved, and he believed that he was not too far from the sixteenth level. Furthermore, under such an external stimulation, his training regiment was far different from anything he had done previously.
No moderation. No control. Just a near insane-level of frenetic cultivation.
Every time he used the Devour Skill, it was as if Zhou Weiqing was a devil, squeezing the most out of his body. He would absorb Heavenly Energy to his limits, and beyond, pushing himself far and above what was humanly possible. Furthermore, he spent most of that time in the Demonic Change State, pushing his boundaries in all manner, before finally sitting down to cultivate and absorb the energy.
He did not sleep, did not rest, and did not eat, only taking tiny breaks to sip water for survival. The current him was using the methodology of the three-thousand tempering in Devouring and cultivating his Heavenly Energy!
The Devour Skill was undoubtedly powerful, but such a method of cultivation was a massive toll on the body. Luckily, he had already broken through fifteen Death Acupuncture Points, and the fifteen energy whirlpools could help him sustain himself and help relieve the pressure. Furthermore, his body had already gone through evolving twice, and his physique was definitely much stronger, tougher and flexible than it had ever been. As such, even despite this almost suicidal method of pushing his limits, he barely managed to survive.
The pain and agony from the body was one matter, but the more important thing was the changes in Zhou Weiqing's psyche. If previously one were to describe him as a cunning, wily but cheerful person, then the current him seemed to be growing colder and colder as he went through this training.
His Demonic Change State was indeed controllable, but spending so much time in such a state, and especially so with such a sleepless, restless and almost self-harming training schedule, plus the continued usage of the Devour Skill, caused Zhou Weiqing to start having a cold aura about his disposition, the killing intent surrounding him increasing daily.
During this period, Shangguan Xue'er had gotten news of what he was doing and came to see him once, and she had since reported it to her uncle, Shangguan Tianyang. However, Shangguan Tianyang did not send anyone to stop Zhou Weiqing. The reason was simple, the current Zhou Weiqing needed some way to vent, to release stress. This method might be harmful to his body and psyche, but if he did not vent in such a manner, perhaps he might do something even worse.
Shangguan Xue'er even asked Shangguan Tianyang whether or not they should tell Shangguan Bing'er about the matter. Without question, allowing Bing'er to speak to and comfort Zhou Weiqing was the best solution.
However, Shangguan Tianyang overruled her suggestion, telling her: As a man, there are some things that one has to face and overcome by himself, only then can he truly grow up. Having Bing'er comfort him is only the easy way out, not the best way.
Just like that, Zhou Weiqing did not eat for almost twenty three days, with only some clear water to sustain himself, cultivating with all his might without sleep or rest, until the day came he could breakthrough his next Death Acupuncture Point…
Zen: Damn, you know Zhou Weiqing is in a bad state when he can't even take advantage of Tian'er in his usual perverted self! T.T
Chapter 339: Entering the Zun Stage (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
His meridian channels engorged with Heavenly Energy, Zhou Weiqing was currently in a disheveled state, his hair had grown so long that it spread messily down his shoulders and back. Although it was in a dark room, one could still spot his eerily bloodshot eyes.
As one's cultivation level grew, each and every level of Heavenly Energy was undoubtedly tougher to reach, and the next level would always take a greater amount of Heavenly Energy. Zhou Weiqing's original estimation of ten days was not fulfilled, and it took him an additional twenty three days on top of the thirty seven days spent with the three Masters, before he finally reached the breakthrough point once more.
Without hesitation, Zhou Weiqing immediately began his final burst towards breaking through.
At this moment, despite his 'mistreatment' of himself, his body and physique was not weak at all. After all, Heavenly Energy was the atmospheric energy that all Heavenly Jewel Masters needed and absorbed, and was in itself extremely good for the human body. Just this energy alone was able to sustain a Heavenly Jewel Master for a long period of time without much problems; although it wasn't the same as Tian'er being able to live without food and drink, it was still able to keep one alive for some time without issues.
Zhou Weiqing continued cultivating non-stop; although this type of cultivation would place a large toll on his body, at the same time, as the saying goes, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. As long as he managed the get through this without any long term damage, it would actually have a sort of tempering effect on his body as well.
The twenty three days had passed, and currently Zhou Weiqing's body was actually stronger and tougher than before, and his Heavenly Energy much thicker. However, he was facing with another huge problem – his spirit.
After twenty three days without sleep and rest, furthermore with full concentration on cultivating, it had already exhausted his spirit to the point of breakdown.
Normally, over twenty days of cultivation was nothing for a Heavenly Jewel Master; after all, cultivating was a sort of rest in itself. However, Zhou Weiqing was different. He was making use of the Devour Skill to its maximum before cleansing and absorbing the Heavenly Energy gained. Under such a circumstance, with his body at the risk of having problems at any time, he had to fully concentrate on not just the Skill, but also in the cleansing and absorption process. Only then could he ensure that he could properly absorb all the Heavenly Energy without future issues.
At the same time, this also took a large toll on his spirit, with only a slight rest at the ending part of each cultivation cycle, which was definitely not sufficient considering how much he expended. If not for that stubborn conviction in his mind supporting him, he would have collapsed long ago.
Even so, under such a circumstance, when Zhou Weiqing felt that his Heavenly Energy was already sufficient, he steeled his resolve and chose to breakthrough the next Death Acupuncture Point.
*BANG*– The sixteenth Death Acupuncture Point broke instantly. Under the tremendous pain, Zhou Weiqing lost control of his body almost immediately due to the resulting involuntary violent shaking. However, he still managed to force himself to focus his spirit in full concentration. Currently, his mind was fixated with the faces of his mother, father, and all the kinsmen, friends, and teachers in the Heavenly Bow Empire.
Tears flowed down his face once more. In his mind, he vowed. Mother, father, you must stay alive, you must! Wait for me please, I will definitely take revenge for all of you, and revive the Heavenly Bow Empire!
Although Zhou Weiqing knew that the possibility of survival for his parents were almost zero, unless he actually heard reports of their demise, he would hold that hope deep in his heart.
That day, when he had sat there in his room alone, he had been filled with despair. He understood his father's character all too well. With his father's cultivation level, it would have been extremely easy for him to escape… if he wanted to. However, he knew that his father would not do such a thing. His father's temperament was such that he would stay til his last drop of blood, never leaving such a battlefield, and would rather choose to die with his soldiers.
What about his mother? What would his mother do? Zhou Weiqing was also clear that his mother would definitely stay by his father's side, no matter how much protection she got, as soon as his father died, his mother would soon follow suit.
At that moment, Zhou Weiqing's heart had only one wish, that his father was in front of him, even if he were beating him like he was young, no matter how hard, or scolding him… All he wanted to see was his father's old fashioned, stubborn and strict face.
Alas, all of that was just too far from his… perhaps for forever.
Father, mother, if both of you are dead, I will definitely let the Kalise Empire and the Bai Da Empire pay a hundred, a thousand times! Please, father, mother, wait for your Little Fatty to come back!
It was just because he had already the worst possibility in mind, Zhou Weiqing had decided to stay back. At a mere three-Jeweled cultivation level, he knew that he would be useless against an army. The only thing he could do was the seize this opportunity in the Heavenly Jewel Island, to boost his cultivation level as much as he could in a short period of time, and gain some extra Skills in their Skill Storing Palace, before returning to the Fei Li Empire to plan his next step. That was the best thing he could do.
Having forced himself to calm down and live with that despair, Zhou Weiqing could make that best choice. He had already thought about his next few possible steps – naturally, it would not be possible for him to continue staying at the Fei Li Military Academy until graduation. As soon as he returned to the Fei Li Empire, he would have to find out exactly what happened to the Heavenly Bow Empire and the current status. After that, he would have to find a path to tread; perhaps a path that had not been in any of his previous plans, or perhaps one that he had not planned to step on just so soon.
As the saying goes, an oppressed army fighting with desperate courage is sure to win. When one is pushed to the edge, even a rat will fight with an immeasurable courage. Even though Zhou Weiqing's spirit was at the verge of breaking down, his sheer stubborn will, that infinite yearning for his family and friends, allowed him to somehow persevere through everything. Gritting his teeth through everything, it was only until that broken through sixteenth Death Acupuncture Point had finally been sealed back and the energy whirlpool formed, and the fourth Jewel forming around his wrists, signalling his success… only then did he finally faint, fully exhausted.
…
Zhou Weiqing remained fully unconscious for three days and three nights, and by the time he awoke once more, he found that he was in his room in the inn.
Tian'er was sitting there silently by his bed, and when she saw him rouse from his sleep, she stroke his face softly and said gently: "Wait here, I will get something for you to eat."
She did not try to persuade him; at this point, it was useless to say anything. Tian'er knew that the only thing she could do was to accompany him and to support him. That would be the best help she could offer. At least, until he fully calmed down.
Zhou Weiqing's spirit and consciousness slowly recovered, and with a quick thought, started circulating his Heavenly Energy around his body, and the sixteen energy whirlpools started spinning faster. A layer of shimmering white light seemed to seep out from his body; it was the newly improved Immortal Deity Shield.
With his sixteenth Death Acupuncture Point broken through, both his wrists showed the fresh new Jewel each. Under normal circumstances, Zhou Weiqing would need at least three months more to breakthrough to this stage, but he had forcibly accomplished it by risking his health and life.
Four Jewels. That was also stepping up from the Shi Stage to the Zun Stage, from the Upper Level Shi Stage to the Lower Level Zun Stage. This was not an extremely tough bottleneck, but to someone like Zhou Weiqing who used such a method of cultivation, it was indeed another life and death trial.
Tian'er returned to the room, carrying a bowl of meat porridge. Receiving the bowl from her, Zhou Weiqing gulped it down swiftly with large mouthfuls. He was an intelligent person after all, and even though he had suffered such a massive blow, this nigh-suicidal training to him was also a sort of venting. That did not mean he would relax or feel happy, but at least it aided in stabilizing his emotions.
Swiftly gobbling up the entire bowl of porridge, Zhou Weiqing turned to Tian'er and said: "Thank you, Tian'er." Seeing her rather haggard, exhausted face, a look of apology appeared on his face.
Tian'er shook her head slightly and said: "There is no need to thank me. Congratulations on breaking through to the four-Jewel Stage."
Zhou Weiqing smiled bitterly and said: "There is still a long way to go."
Tian'er kept silent for a while, before finally asking him: "When do you plan to leave?"
A sorrowful light flashed in Zhou Weiqing's eyes, and he said: "Alas, by now, the dust has already settled in the Heavenly Bow Empire… and it is too late to just react foolishly. I will take a few more days to complete my fourth Jewel's Skills, then I will leave for the Fei Li City."
Tian'er nodded silently, then said: "Rest a while before you go. If anything happens to you, there will be no more chances left for the Heavenly Bow Empire."
Zhou Weiqing forced a smile onto his face and said reassuringly: "I am fine, the earlier I return, the earlier I can arrange other things as well. Do not worry, I will be alright."
As he said that, he stood up to leave, planning to head once more to the Skill Storing Palace to complete Skill Storing on his Fourth Jewel.
However, this time, Tian'er did not let him do as he wished. Standing up abruptly, she grabbed hold of Zhou Weiqing's arm. As he started in surprise, Tian'er had already wrapped both arms around his neck, standing on tiptoe as she kissed him on the lips suddenly.
As their lips met, Zhou Weiqing's eyes widened as they lost focus in shock. Tian'er pressed her body closer, her voluptuous, fiery hot body seemed like a body of molten lava, melting Zhou Weiqing down.
Tian'er exerted some pressure on her feet, and Zhou Weiqing lost his balance. Almost instantly, both of them fell onto the bed, with Tian'er on top.
Currently, her face was totally red, her entire person like a beautiful ripe peach as she pressed down against Zhou Weiqing.
Their lips parted, and Zhou Weiqing stared in shock at her. Tian'er's breathing was urgent, and she murmured softly: "I said that I would give you a reward for saving that dragon family… And I'll give it now…"
"Tian'er…" Zhou Weiqing only had time to cry out once, before his lips were once again sealed with another kiss.
Zhou Weiqing stared at her with wide eyes. Currently, all he could see in her eyes was a deep purple, and in a flash, he felt a sense of relaxation, and the sensations of his body felt magnified.
Tian'er's kisses were very clumsy, but searing hot. In terms of her figure, amongst all the girls that Zhou Weiqing knew, she was definitely the most voluptuous, and perhaps only Principal Cai Cai could come close. However, in terms of the wild nature of the Divine Heavenly Spirit Tiger, none could compare.
A wild, ferocious aura overwhelmed him, and Zhou Weiqing felt as if his entire body was being melted down by Tian'er. However, he was no longer a virgin, and after a short moment of stunned shock, a violent desire mixed with pain rose within, and he hugged Tian'er hard. A red light rose within his eyes again, and the temperature of his body rose rapidly, as if ignited by Tian'er.
Tian'er's eyes closed slowly. Currently, she was both excited and afraid, almost flustered. Although she knew what she wanted, in truth she did not know what she was doing. Towards the relations between men and women, she did not know much, with most of her knowledged learned from her peeking at Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er's intimate relations.
Chapter 340: Entering the Zun Stage (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
However, watching was one thing, but actually experiencing it on her own was another matter altogether. When Zhou Weiqing' large hands encircled her slim waist and the sweet curvature below, her body began to tremble.
Her flustered inner heart wanted her to dodge away, but she was no ordinary human. At this moment, she had already chosen to give Zhou Weiqing this most precious reward, and more so also to heal his wounded heart, to slightly relax that taut heartstrings that were at maximum tension for so long. Otherwise, she was afraid that if he stayed in that state any longer, he would breakdown totally. As such, no matter how much she wanted to dodge away, she had made her decision and would only turn this flustered embarrassment into wild action.
Tian'er's amazing curves sparked all of Zhou Weiqing's burning desire, and abruptly, he flipped himself around, pressing her down below instead.
The past few days, his heart had been fully tightened and sealed up, and it was finally being reopened in this unique method by Tian'er. The fire in Zhou Weiqing's heart was being reignited, like a huge fiery oven, slowly swallowing Tian'er…
Zhou Weiqing returned her kisses crazily, all over, and Tian'er couldn't help but wriggle around. She could not describe her own feelings, as if afraid, or joyous, as their bodies moved together.
A faint mist seemed to rise up in the room, and the temperature rose as well. Faintly, it was as if the very air in the room seemed to form a semblance of a black and white tiger intertwined, the black tiger exalted high spirited, the white tiger shy at the side, and their soft cries rang out through the room.
A sudden sharp pain, and a feral savage nature was sparked once more. The blue tiger tattoos and black tiger tattoos appeared respectively on the two young bodies. At the same time, the light of their four Saint Attributes shone brightly, enveloping both of them.
As the pain turned into a strange numbness, the painful cries slowly turned into a low moans, quivering with anticipation and need.
Along with the numbness came a joy that she had never experienced before, and as her wild nature sparked up, the bright light in the room also strengthened to the maximum point. Even in every nook and cranny of the room, that intense Heavenly Energy undulations could be felt.
Outside the door, the Fei Li Battle Team members were gathered; they had been guarding the door together.
However, they currently had all had a strange look on their faces.
Tian'er's wild cries were not muffled by the doors, and they did not need to guess what was happening within the room. How could their expressions not be strange?
Like a Guardian Saint, Lin TianAo stood right outside the door impassively. Looking at Drunken Bao, Xiao Yan and Little Four, and their expressions, he said exasperatedly: "You guys, go back to your room."
Drunken Bao moved closer and said in a low tone: "Boss, even if we go back to our rooms, that will not do! This Lady Tian'er's cries are just too… tempting… we better go out and have a walk, or we will not be able to take it."
Crow's tall stature allowed her to peek over Drunken Bao to say: "Weiqing is so vigorous! Sigh… why does he refuse to follow me back to the Gold Crow Tribe? What a shame!"
Lin TianAo glared at them and said: "What is in those heads of yours! This Lady Tian'er is sacrificing so much for Weiqing's sake, to ensure that he doesn't get lost in his despair and suffering. I warn you all, you better be more respectful to her in the future. For a girl to do such a thing for a man, to give up her most precious thing for his sake in such a time of danger and need… what she has done for Weiqing is more than enough to earn our respect."
In the end, Drunken Bao and the rest fled the scene. For virile young men like them, hearing sounds like that was definitely not a good thing, too much stimulation and excitement …
Only Lin TianAo remained outside the door, and he persevered for four hours, before he was forced to pour a bucket of ice cold water on his heated head as well. Only then did the sounds from the room slowly quieten.
Zhou Weiqing fell into a deep sleep, and Tian'er lay on his chest, her eyes closed slightly, her slightly bruised body pressed against him as she was still breathing deeply from their exertions.
After finally releasing all his pent up emotions, mixed with that deep seated fatigue, Zhou Weiqing was dead to the world in his sleep. His brow had finally smoothed out as he was relaxed at last, and holding his face lightly, Tian'er smiled faintly.
"You little fool, don't you know that when you resolutely decided to save that mother and baby dragon, my heart had already been conquered by you. You little rascal, making me hurt so much, I don't know how Bing'er could withstand you…"
Feeling a heady mix of feelings, euphoria and exhaustion, she too drifted off into sleep, wrapped in Zhou Weiqing's arms.
Finally in a deep, sound sleep, Zhou Weiqing only woke up after a whole day of rest. When he awoke, he felt refreshed and full of energy. Sitting up on the bed, Zhou Weiqing looked around, but he was all alone, and found that he was wrapped in a soft warm blanket, and his body had not only been cleansed, he was also dressed in a fresh set of clothes.
Tian'er, it had to be Tian'er. Although Zhou Weiqing was not clear what exactly had happened, but he was sure that Tian'er had arranged it all.
The door opened, and Lin TianAo walked in from outside. "Ahh, Weiqing, you're awake!"
Although Zhou Weiqing's face had always been very thick, when he saw Lin TianAo's strange expression and eyes, he couldn't help but blush slightly, but couldn't help saying: "Big Brother, where is Tian'er?"
Lin TianAo smiled and said: "She went to get some food for you. Weiqing, you better treat her well…"
Zhou Weiqing nodded.
After that joyous release last night, he had finally walked out from the shadow of that heavy blow, or at least taken the first few steps out. The hate in his heart was no less, but at least he would not do anything foolish anymore.
Right at that moment, Tian'er appeared at the door, balancing a tray in her hands as she walked in. Seeing Zhou Weiqing standing there, her face turned red and she lowered her head slightly.
Lin TianAo smiled faintly before turning to leave, closing the door behind him, leaving the two young lovers alone.
Tian'er walked silently to the side, placing the tray on the table. It was another bowl of delicious smelling meat porridge.
Zhou Weiqing took a step forward, holding her hands and pulling her into his embrace tightly. Burying his face between her hair and neck, breathing in her scent, his grip involuntarily tightened around her.
"Tian'er… it is so good to have you by my side…"
Hearing his words, Tian'er quivered gently, and she held Zhou Weiqing by the waist. Alas, Zhou Weiqing did not see that at that moment, her eyes were filled with a faint sorrow.
"Weiqing, you better eat something first. I'll accompany you to the Skill Storing Palace after this."
Zhou Weiqing nodded before releasing her. Giving her a light kiss on her face, at the same time seizing the opportunity to squeeze some areas and causing her to cry out, a mischievous grin appeared on his face before he sat down at the table and started eating.
Tian'er looked at him in a mix of tenderness and caution, before crossing her arms huffily. However, there was a hint of relief in her eyes. At least, her little bad boy Zhou Little Fatty was back. Although she knew he still hid many things in his heart, and that such deep wounds could not heal so easily, at least on the surface he was almost normal again.
"Tian'er, why is it that after we did it just now, my Heavenly Energy seems to have increased so much. I feel like I am already close to breaking through to the next level again!" Zhou Weiqing exclaimed curiously.
Tian'er's face turned beet red and she said huffily: "I won't tell you. Quick, be good and eat up!"
Zhou Weiqing grabbed onto her and pulled her closer, pressing her full bottom against his thigh intimately. Embracing her fully, he said: "Tell me quick, otherwise I'll be forced to try it out again for myself." As he said that, his hands wandered around her waist.
"Wuuu… Wait … I'll say, I'll say…" Tian'er quickly grabbed his wandering hands and stopped them. "It should be because of our Saint Attributes mixing together. I do not know about the exact details, but previously when I broke through from the Zun Stage into the Lower Level Zong Stage, it was also with the aid of your two Saint Attributes, Demonic and Time. As I said, it seems like when our four Saint Attributes are together, it seems to form some sort of unique barrier or aura, allowing our cultivation speeds to be a lot faster than when we are alone. When… when we… you and I… you know… perhaps that had also caused our Heavenly Energy to mix together and improve due to that."
Zhou Weiqing was naturally not the only person to gain massive benefits, and Tian'er had indeed gained a lot as well. Of course, her cultivation level was much higher than Zhou Weiqing's, so it did not seem as obvious.
Zhou Weiqing stared at her, jaw agape, before saying: "Doesn't that mean… if we do it more often, isn't it even better than any cultivation technique?!"
"You…" Tian'er blushed deeply as she broke free of his grasp, embarrassed. "You're not allowed to think of such naughty things like that. That was just a one time reward for you, only this once! Furthermore… even if we… do it again in the future… it will not have the same effect as the first time."
Zhou Weiqing looked her Tian'er's appealing, and said a little bleakly, guilt in his eyes: "Tian'er… Thank you. I'm so sorry, I really should not have taken you at this kind of time."
Tian'er made a soft sound, back facing him, before finally shaking her head silently. At last she said: "It… was of my own wish… No matter what happens in the future, you will always be my only man."
Chapter 341: Entering the Zun Stage (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Zhou Weiqing stood up, holding onto Tian'er's hands and he kissed them lightly before saying: "Come on, let's go to the Skill Storing Palace."
"En."
Zhou Weiqing informed Lin TianAo quickly before heading to the Skill Storing Palace together with Tian'er. This time, they stayed there for three whole days.
In this three days, not only did Zhou Weiqing complete all the Skill Storing of his fourth Elemental Jewel, he also managed to complete Consolidating the next two pieces of his Legendary Set. By the time he walked out from the Skill Storing Palace, holding onto Tian'er's hands as he did so, he felt as if he were totally reborn.
When they had first arrived at the ZhongTian City to join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, he was only at a mere three-Jeweled cultivation level, and both his Stored Skills and Consolidated Equipment were not completed then. Yet, now, he was already a four-Jeweled Low Level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Master, with all Consolidated Equipment and Stored Skills to boot. More so, he had gained many powerful, highly rated Skills, and now had a total of three Legendary Set pieces! His entire power levels had definitely skyrocketed, a mighty force to be reckoned with.
"Weiqing, let us rest for a day, we'll leave tomorrow ok?" Tian'er said softly.
It was already in the evening at that time, and descending from the Heavenly Jewel Island was not too safe. As such, Zhou Weiqing agreed, and the two returned to their inn. Zhou Weiqing went to look for one of the employees on the Heavenly Jewel Island to pass a message to Shangguan Longyin that the entire Fei Li Battle Team would be leaving the next day.
The night grew later, and Zhou Weiqing stood by his window, staring out into the distance. The Heavenly Jewel Island was high up above the sea level, and here, he could see many stars that were usually covered on the ground. The stars in the skies seemed to be like many precious jewels embedded in the heavens, twinkling and shining, a beautiful and grand sight.
Looking in the direction of the Heavenly Bow Empire, Zhou Weiqing's fists clenched hard. Father, Mother, Godfather, I will definitely take revenge for all of you. Even if it is just me alone, no matter how long it takes, I will definitely destroy the Kalise and Bai Da Empires.
At that moment, his mind involuntarily thought of the Lustre Spatial Realm, and that unbelievably powerful sight of the majestic Heavenly God Stage Dragon and the Skill it had unleashed, overwhelming the entire skies. Although a Heavenly God Stage powerhouse could not stand and fight against an entire army of a million strong, but even if once was a failure, a second time was a failure, that did not mean he would fail forever. Zhou Weiqing had thought things through and come up with a basic plan. If possible, he would try his best to raise an army of his own to restore his homeland. If that was not possible, then he would cultivate hard, training hard to become a powerhouse, a killing machine, stabbing right into the heart of the enemy.
A soft, warm body pressed against him from behind, and a pair of arms encircled his waist gently. Zhou Weiqing turned around slowly to see Tian'er, especially beautiful under the shimmering moonlight, dressed in a snow white long dress, accentuating her long flowing white hair and the pair of mesmerising purple eyes.
She is my woman now! Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but feel a sense of pride well up within his heart. Gently, he wrapped Tian'er in his arms. At that point, he suddenly felt a wild dream overcome him. If one day, when everything ended and the dust settled, he would bring Bing'er and Tian'er to this beautiful Heavenly Jewel Island to stay forever, and not have a care in the world. That would be wonderful indeed.
Tian'er lowered her head, covering her sorrowful eyes, burying her head into Zhou Weiqing's chest as she said softly: "Weiqing, take me."
How could Zhou Weiqing resist such a request? Stretching out his arms, he lifted Tian'er up in his embrace, feeling her soft body trembling. Instantly, the negative emotions in his heart disappeared once more, as the two young lovers intertwined in both body and soul.
This was another sleepless night; not just for Zhou Weiqing and Tian'er, but also the other poor fellows in the inn. When Tian'er's loud, wild cries rang out loud, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but think to the future, that they would have to find a more desolate and widely spaced place to live in.
Tian'er seemed even wilder this night; having tasted the forbidden fruit of desire, she was actually more on the initiative this time.
At such a young and hot blooded age, naturally our dear Zhou Little Fatty was not to be outdone. After a long, drawn out 'fight', the white tiger finally lost out to the black tiger, begging for mercy as it was 'defeated'…
"En?" When Zhou Weiqing was awoken from his dreams by the sun shining in from the window, he subconsciously embraced the figure beside him, only to meet with nothingness.
Tian'er was not beside him, and Zhou Weiqing sat up on the bed, stretching himself as he sensed the faint scent Tian'er had left in the air, and a great sense of satisfaction filled his heart.
The truth had indeed proven itself, and Tian'er was indeed right. As the two had coupled the second time, their Heavenly Energy had only improved slightly, definitely nothing in comparison to the immense increase of the first time. Even so, as Zhou Weiqing woke up in the morning, he felt as if his body was lighter, feeling great overall.
In his most painful moment, she was there for him. At the time when he was almost about to break down, she had used her soft body to gently comfort his aching heart. Perhaps, their road ahead would be extremely tough and fraught with difficulties, but no matter what, Zhou Weiqing would not back down. She was his, forever.
Looking around, Zhou Weiqing suddenly spotted a letter lying on the bed where Tian'er had been last night. Picking it up, he opened it casually. However, when he saw the first line of words of the letter, he suddenly froze.
"Weiqing, by the time you read this, I will have left. Although it was unbelievably difficult to make this decision, I have no choice but to do so and leave you. I'm sorry Weiqing, that I have to leave you in the time of your greatest need, but I have no choice at all…"
Tian'er's words were somewhat jumbled, clearly when she was writing this letter, she had been at such a loss. "In the Heavenly Jewel Tournament finals, the members of the WanShou Battle Team had already spotted me. When you were learning from the three Masters, they came looking for me, asking me to return together with them. However, I rejected them. Alas, now that they have already spotted my whereabouts, they also realised that something is between us. They already left a while back, but I stayed here to wait for your return. I'm afraid that by now, Father will have sent men, and that fiance of mine, here to look for me."
"You are already in too much… way too much trouble. I cannot allow you to get into more trouble because of me, to be hurt because of me. As such, I have no choice but to leave. Luckily, before I do so, I am able to give myself to you. Do not worry, since I am already yours, that will never ever change. No matter how much they try to force me, I will only be Zhou Weiqing's woman."
"Father only has one child, and as his only daughter, he will not force me too much. As long as I threaten him with my death, he will not be able to do anything to me. However, I'm afraid that in the near future, I will not be able to look for you."
"Do not come looking for me, please, I beg you. I know that with your character, it is easy for you to throw caution to the wind, to put your all in doing something despite any dangers. If you really do so, then you will be wasting the painstaking trouble that I have gone through now. You have many important things to do, and many people depending on you now. At least, before you have sufficient power, you cannot come looking for me. For myself, I will try my best to persuade my father."
"I may have left, but I have no regrets, only a longing for you. Weiqing, you have never told me that you loved me yet, but… I love you."
The final words were her signing off: Your Tian'er, your Fat Cat.
Grasping the letter in his hands tightly, Zhou Weiqing rushed out of the room into the clear fresh air outside. The chill of the morning gave his heart a slight chill of bleakness.
Bing'er would not return with him, and Tian'er had also left. Although he knew that Tian'er had done so for his own sake, he couldn't help but feel a sharp pain in his heart.
Tian'er, I love you! Zhou Weiqing howled out loud in his heart. Alas, Tian'er was no longer able to hear it. Who knew when he would be able to actually speak those words to her directly.
…
Descending the Heavenly Jewel Island, the team purchased fourteen fine horses. With seven of them each riding one, they galloped at top speed towards the Fei Li Empire.
In the end, Zhou Weiqing did not go looking for Tian'er. His feelings were undoubtedly important, but at this moment, the demise of his homeland filled his heart. Furthermore, at this moment, he truly did not have the power and qualification to go looking for Tian'er.
The reason why there were seven of them was because they were joined by someone else from the Heavenly Jewel Island. It was a twenty three year old young lady, with a rather easy to remember name, Dou Dou.
Dou Dou did not belong to the Heaven's Expanse Palace, but she was the direct disciple of Xing Tianyi, the head of the three Masters!
Previously, after the thirty seven days Zhou Weiqing had spent learning from the three Masters, Xing Tianyi had asked Zhou Weiqing to bring this young disciple of his along to travel and experience the world.
Dou Dou had been adopted since she was a baby, and brought up by Xing Tianyi. All her life, she had lived in the Heavenly Jewel Island, and it could be said that she was extremely sheltered, with no contact at all with the outside world. Xing Tianyi hoped that she could go out into the real world and experience everything for herself. With Zhou Weiqing's protection, he was also more at ease. This was also a decision Xing Tianyi had made after learning from the Heaven's Expanse Palace about how Zhou Weiqing had risked falling out with the Heaven's Expanse Palace when he had protected that mother dragon and egg in the Lustre Spatial Realm.
In comparison with his power, Xing Tianyi's choice was more because of his appreciation of Zhou Weiqing's character.
As for Dou Dou, Zhou Weiqing had actually only met her for the first time after leaving the Heavenly Jewel Island. The events of the Heavenly Bow Empire had caused him to be confused and disconcerted, and he had totally forgotten about his previous promise. However, when Xing Tianyi had been notified by the Heaven's Expanse Palace about Zhou Weiqing's leaving, he quickly sent Dou Dou out personally to join him.
At that point, Zhou Weiqing had told Xing Tianyi that this time, when he returned, he would definitely be facing many dangers, and did not recommend bringing Dou Dou along. After all, he could not even guarantee his own safety, let alone hers. However, Xing Tianyi insisted in him bringing her along, indicating that she could protect herself, and that it was time that she got out to experience the world.
In the end, Zhou Weiqing did not reject it. Not only did he owe the three Masters a lot, this young lady Dou Dou was also a powerful and skilled Grandmaster Consolidating Equipment Master in her own right. According to Xing Tianyi, she was already not far from reaching the Zong Stage!
After all, Xing Tianyi could be said to be the current top God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master in the entire world, and could his personal disciple be bad at all?
This Dou Dou was not especially beautiful, especially when compared with top beauties like the three Shangguan sisters, Tian'er and Little Witch; her looks were above average at best, and a far cry from them. However, she brought a totally different feeling to the rest of the Fei Li Battle Team members.
Dou Dou had one favourite hobby, and that was eating. She did not have much contact with the outside world at all, and in terms of her character, she was a little blur in that sense. She did not know about the perils of human character, and as long as someone gave her something good to eat, she would follow along. Of course, for Zhou Weiqing to successfully bring her along, besides her Master's instructions, he had indeed used that tactic.
Chapter 342: Darkness Consolidated Fate Denying Seal! (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
As they galloped along, besides for the sake of Crow who needed to continuously change horses due to her weight, they did not take many stops to rest, spending most of their time on the road. Dou Dou did not complain about suffering; as long as she could have food in her mouth, she was willing to do anything without objection. Truly a naive young lady indeed.
Zhou Weiqing suspected that if one day he sold her off, perhaps she would still help me count his profits. 1
…
As compared to their journey from the Fei Li City to the ZhongTian City, this time, their return trip took almost less than half the time. By the time the Fei Li Battle Team returned to the Fei Li City, they were all tired and covered in the dust of travel.
They stopped outside the city gates, vaulting off their horses before turning to Zhou Weiqing.
Zhou Weiqing said: "Big Bro, you all head back to the Heavenly Jewel Academy first before coming to the Fei Li Military Academy to look for me."
Lin TianAo said: "I shall not head back, I'll follow you." He was actually rather worried about Zhou Weiqing. Although the young man had not said anything about Tian'er leaving, Lin TianAo could clearly tell that it had affected him a lot as well.
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly as he shook his head, saying: "Big Bro, you head back. It is good to carry through to the end once you begin; since the Heavenly Jewel Academy has groomed you for so long, you should go back once to give a final accounting. Do not worry about me, I am fine. No matter how much pain I am in, so what? Things have already happened, and Tian'er has already left. There is no point in moping about in the past, and all I can do is to ensure I do my best for the future. Rather than focusing on the pain, I will do what needs to be done. I will be fine, I'm heading back to my academy first." As he said that, he passed the reins in his hands to Lin TianAo, before pulling Dou Dou along as he strode through the city.
He was definitely not trying to take advantage of Dou Dou… It was just that after these last few days of, he was now afraid of her getting lost in such a large city.
"Boss?" Xiao Yan said to Lin TianAo with a querying lilt of his brow.
Lin TianAo nodded and said: "Come on then, let's head back to the Academy first."
As he walked along the familiar roads of the Fei Li city, Zhou Weiqing's frame of mind was vastly different from when he had previously been here. The current him was definitely much more mature now.
At this point, Zhou Weiqing truly understood what Mu En had meant when he had said that men had to experience some things personally before they could truly grow up. Mu En… teacher… are you all still alive? Are all you teachers from the Heavenly Bow Unit still all right?
Although logically speaking, he was clear that with the demise of the Heavenly Bow Empire, it might also mean the death of his teachers. However, in his heart, he still hoped that they would all be alive and well.
The large door to the Fei Li Royal Family Military Academy was as quiet as normal. Besides the time of the year when they were enrolling new students, this place always had a silent, serious and imposing air about it.
Once again, he had returned to this place, but Zhou Weiqing's feelings were extremely different, as if he was in a different time and place, and that he no longer belonged here. More so, he felt rather helpless; he no longer had the time to win over the classmates and even fellow schoolmates in this Academy as he had planned.
Originally, when Zhou Weiqing had entered the Fei Li Military Academy, he had come up with an entire set of plans. In coming here to study, learning was actually of secondary importance, and his priority had actually been to make use of his own talents to attract and recruit other outstanding talents for the Heavenly Bow Empire. That had indeed been his plan, and it had been working thus far. That was the reason why he had started acting in such a high profile manner and attracting so much attention since he entered the Academy; and he had definitely started achieving his goals.
However, it now seemed that it was too late for him. After leaving for several months, he had actually gone through the entire Heavenly Jewel Tournament and even won the final championship. This could have been the best tool for him to continue recruiting talent, alas the Heavenly Bow Empire had fallen, and he had no time to continue staying in the Academy.
"Big Bro Little Fatty, I am hungry." The naive young lady Dou Dou tugged on Zhou Weiqing's sleeve. Although she was twenty three years old, and mature physically, her mental disposition was still that of a young girl. Zhou Weiqing had used a bag of potato chips to cheat her into calling him Big Bro.
Zhou Weiqing retrieved a bag of almonds from his Spatial Ring and passed it to her, and she immediately quieted down, digging into the almonds with gusto. Although she loved eating, she was actually not picky; as long as she had something to eat, it was all great. Of course, if it were something extremely tasty, she would immediately give Zhou Weiqing a happy smile, and if it didn't taste as good, she would have a sad look on her face, though she still continued eating. Even stranger, even though she ate so much everyday, she was still slim, as if she would never grow fat.
"Little Miss Muddle, come with me." Zhou Weiqing beckoned to her as he entered the Fei Li Military Academy.
It was still in the morning, and the students were all in their respective classes; and the main square was empty and quiet. Zhou Weiqing went directly into the main building; Principal Cai Cai had been good to him, and since he was back and not planning on continuing in the Academy, he had to give this beautiful young lady principal a notification at least.
Little Miss Muddle 2 was the nickname that Zhou Weiqing had given Dou Dou, mainly because she was so naive and blur to such an unbelievable state, and he had experienced it a lot in their journey back. Sometimes, they were rushing along, and she disappeared into the forests around, or even getting lost after going to the toilet. Calling her a little miss muddle, Zhou Weiqing already felt he was being so polite. Currently, she was following behind him obediently.
Entering the school building, Zhou Weiqing was just about to lead Dou Dou up the stairs when the bell for the end of class rang out.
As class ended, the students rushed out of class in a mass. The Commoner Class One's classroom was on the first level, and the first to rush out of class was Kou Rui. He was about to rush to the main square, before he saw Zhou Weiqing standing there and skidded to a stop.
Rubbing his eyes hard, he realised that he was not seeing things, and with a loud whoop of joy, he charged towards Zhou Weiqing.
"Boss!"
Zhou Weiqing was startled by Kou Rui's sudden cry, and before he knew it, he had been enveloped by a big hug.
Kou Rui's cry was indeed loud, and instantly the rest of the Commoner Class One students' attention was drawn. Like bees to honey, they swarmed forward, and as they saw Zhou Weiqing, cheers and cries rang out as they surrounding him, almost blocking the entire main building entrance.
"Boss, you are finally back! You are now the hero of the Empire Ahhhh! The Champion of the Heavenly Jewel Tournament! We have all heard about it, that you were the one who led the Fei Li Battle Team to win the champion of the Heavenly Jewel Tournament!" Kou Rui exclaimed as he stared at Zhou Weiqing with an excited look on his face, grabbing his arm tightly as he shook it wildly.
Our Little Miss Muddle Dou Dou was hiding behind Zhou Weiqing, munching away on her almonds as she looked around at everything around them with wide eyes, rather confused.
"Boss, if I knew you had gone to join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, I would have followed along to sneak a champion for myself, how great that would be! Boss, let me tell you… I have already reached the second Jewel stage, it's time for you to help me make another Consolidating Equipment Scroll! Heh heh." That large figure of Ma Qun seemed even larger than Zhou Weiqing remembered. He was indeed huge, towering over the rest of the students, and even though he was on the outskirts of the encircling students, he could easily spot Zhou Weiqing.
Yan Zhexi was standing beside Ma Qun, and he gave a disdainful humph as he said: "With your powers, you still dream of joining the Heavenly Jewel Tournament?"
The rest of the class was also chattering away; with Zhou Weiqing's return, the entire Commoner Class One was boiling with excitement. It could be said that all of them were in an overly excited state.
For the past few months that Zhou Weiqing had left, all of the Commoner Class One students had been working and studying with all their might, and also focusing especially hard on their cultivation. With the money and Consolidating Equipment Scrolls that Zhou Weiqing had left behind, all of them had at least gotten one piece of their own Consolidated Equipment. Let alone for a commoner class to have such a sight, even in the noble classes, that was something that could barely be seen! After all, not all of the nobles were Jewel Masters. Indeed… for an entire class to all have at least one Consolidated Equipment, the Commoner Class One was the first.
It could be said that the current Commoner Class One had a rather unique position in the entire Academy. After that time when the noble class had been beaten up by them, the aftermath from that, as well as the warning by Ye Paopao and Zhou Weiqing before they left from the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, none of the noble students dared to take revenge on the Commoner Class One.
Furthermore, in terms of direct strength, none of them were a match for the Commoner Class One anyway. This year's Commoner Class was truly one of the strongest freshmen in the history of the Fei Li Military Academy, and the person who had given them that honour was Zhou Weiqing.
In fact, it could be said that without Zhou Weiqing, there would not be the Commoner Class One of today. It was he who had used his own power and strength, talents and abilities, and even money, to help the Commoner Class One to gain confidence, more importantly, to be able to stand up straight and tall in the academy. Even Principal Cai Cai had commented that this year's Commoner Class One would definitely grow into talents in their own right, and perhaps into the future pillars of society.
From Zhou Weiqing, they had learned how to respect themselves. Only when one has self respect, can they start to earn other people's respect. Self respect, self improvement, self reliance, confidence. This was what they had slowly learned from Zhou Weiqing, even after such a short period of contact with him.
This was especially so after learning that in this year's Heavenly Jewel Tournament, the Fei Li Battle Team had surpassed all expectations to clinch the championship, and more so, Zhou Weiqing had actually been of vital importance to that. In that moment, their feelings for Zhou Weiqing had grown from gratitude and respect to almost the idolizing stage.
Zhou Weiqing had finally returned, and from his bearing and countenance, he seemed more mature and stable. In the eyes of his fellow classmates, their class leader was even greater than their teachers.
The Commoner Class One had just finished with their class, and as they headed out, it wasn't just the students, but also the teacher who had just been teaching them. Coincidentally, the one teaching them had just been their teacher in charge, Ming Hua.
Seeing Zhou Weiqing, Ming Hua's eyes were complicated. Not long ago, she had received news from the Heavenly Demon Sect, and that her instructions were to fulfil any requests that Zhou Weiqing wanted, no matter what it was, and to support him. Seeing those words, even if that little rascal forced her to do it with him, those superiors above would not do anything about it, and would be delighted instead.