Chapter 1206 - 720 - 728

Chapter 720: It's Him!

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

After not meeting for a long time, Yao Ailun had changed quite a bit. Although his stature was the same, but he was more mature and capable looking. Clearly working on the outside was different. He looked like he had a little experience in society now.

It was rare that the three of them were together, and all were in high spirits. Yao Ailun was treating, and they were having a good time. If only Yan Xiaosu and Zhang Shan could have been there too.

Yao Ailun and Chen Xiu were very interested in Wang Zheng's Elite Academy life, and what was special about that mysterious place. Wang Zheng also told them about the fun places on Roland Garros.

"Damn, Hail Cloud Alliance babes!"

After a lengthy period, both of them had automatically forgotten everything except the babes at Elite Academy.

"It's like an international fest. Roland Garros seems like a great place. Too bad I'm unable to go." Chen Xiu said with regret.

"Forget it. Even if scrubs like us wing our way in, we'll be trampled. We better live honest lives here." Yao Ailun said.

"From the way Chen Xiu said, you're really popular now, and called the best CT analyst. Are you really planning to do this after graduation?" Wang Zheng asked.

Yao Ailun nodded. He took a huge swig of beer, and savored it. "I know myself best. Given my personality, I can't stand the loneliness of doing research. CT is hectic. Of course, commentary helps me to meet many new people as well. It's good, and I'm intending to do this.

"Exciting, and you get to meet the stars. I'm so envious." Chen Xiu said.

"You rascal, learning all the wrong things. Everyday it's babes, babes, babes. You must have been the bad influence." Wang Zheng teased. Previously, Chen Xiu would duck out at any mention of girls.

Yao Ailun protested vigorously. "It's I that was influenced by him. This guy is the protégé of Principal Xiao Fei now, and the one she's heavily investing in. A popular guy, and the girls that like him are lining out the school gate."

"Nothing that exaggerated. And nothing compared to Brother Zheng," Chen Xiu said with uncharacteristic humility.

Wang Zheng was embarrassed too. In the last three years, the students had turned over again and again. Besides, Elite Academy was not open to public, and those that remembered him were probably only a few now.

"Right, how are Prince and the rest?" Wang Zheng asked. He had not been playing for a while now. But now he understood that after passing a certain level, CT completely held no challenge for him. Any random person from Elite Academy could easily be a CT pro. But at that level, it was difficult to hold any interest for CT. Of course, his experience in the past nevertheless held sweet memories.

"Prince is still around, but the rest have retired. Some are coaching, others commentating. Some have left CT also. There are many new people coming in, and Prince is more of a brand mascot nowadays." Yao Ailun laughed. This circle's competition was too intense.

"Now the popularity of Solar System's CT is firmly within the top 10 in the galaxy. It's a booming market, and it's mostly thanks to Brother Zheng." Chen Xiu said. What they had now was mostly become of the crucial step that Wang Zheng had made, which had sparked the interest of countless viewers.

Wang Zheng shook his head. "I don't know how many people still remember me."

That was true. Each batch had its talents, and the turnover rate was high. The older cohort from back then were fast disappearing, and furthermore, he had been retired for so long.

"Let's drink to Skeleton!" Yao Ailun said. Without the ID of Skeleton, he would not have entered this field, much less turn professional.

"Haha, yeah we should toast to Skeleton." Wang Zheng was thinking of Bonehead, who had not fully recovered ever since the Tita Star incident. It had been the most dangerous experience he had in his life, and Bonehead had saved him.

"Oh, Brother Ailun, isn't Old Deer organizing some celebrity invitational match? Brother Zheng is free now, why don't you invite him?" Chen Xiu suddenly recalled. After all, his past glory had stirred the audience significantly.

"That's right. Do you want to give it a go?"

Wang Zheng waved it off. "Forget it. I haven't touched it for a long time, and those celebrity matches aren't my thing."

Wang Zheng had played CT previously completely to train his hands. He had never thought about going public.

"Ah, I forgot that Brother Zheng is now with the Elite Academy, and his mysteriousness cannot be exposed. But no matter, Brother Ailun is a pro, I've told all my juniors to wait for his spectacular performance. But say, who are you inviting?"

Yao Ailun half-laughed. "I'm still agonizing about it."

"Tsk tsk. Press on, champ!" It was apparent that Chen Xiu worshipped Ailun. Although Yao Ailun was not professional, but he had made his own name in CT. Besides, his standard was not bad, and his logical foundations and overall read was good. After Wang Zheng left, he had taken great pains to train his thinking. Although he could not compare with professionals, but he was at least a Diamond rank standard.

Compared to Chen Xiu's naivety, Wang Zheng had noticed the tinge of frustration in Yao Ailun's look. Now firmly in the outside world, Wang Zheng was aware that many things were difficult, which was why school was the best. It was like an ivory tower, where one was naturally protected. Those like Chen Xiu were more suited to do research, and this was the place for him.

But he and Yao Ailun clearly loved challenges more.

In this period, Skylink calls came frequently for Chen Xiu and Yao Ailun. It was all from their juniors. This allowed them to show off a lot. Five junior girls even rushed them, some towards Chen Xiu and some towards Yao Ailun.

Wang Zheng was laughing and crying. Seeing their passionate celebrity status, he felt that he was out of the times. But it looked like Chen Xiu and Yao Ailun were living good lives.

"Let me introduce you. This is Wang Zheng, and also your senior. He's…" Chen Xiu was intending to seriously introduce him. He was just preparing to launch into Wang Zheng's illustrious history, when Wang Zheng cut him off.

"All right, enough bragging. I'm their classmate, but I've changed schools now. I'm just back in the holidays to look around, and bask in their popularity." Wang Zheng said. What was past was past. He was not here to find a sense of belonging again.

"That's true. Senior Chen Xiu is every girl's idol. The only one in the physics stream who can fulfil Principal Xiao Fei's criteria!" A girl with large eyes and short hair said.

Xiao Fei had already become the spiritual leader for the entire school, … which was why feminism had shot up as well. Only, the Ares Military College's atmosphere had become more relaxed now. Although Wang Zheng and Zhang Shan were very intense, but they had already left.

"Senior Ailun, our entire dorm's girls will always watch your broadcasts. You must win!"

"Exactly! That Mu Guang is a blockhead. He's not your match. We support you!"

Many other commentators were competing against Yao Ailun for this Annual Commentator, and this year was the first year that Old Deer was not in the running. Before, the two of them were an unbeatable duo, but now he had to make it solo. He had to prove himself in the first year. If Yao Ailun failed, then he would forever have to live with the name of the Old Deer's Tail.

"Don't worry about it, a piece of cake!"

With girls added in the mix, the mood was different, and livelier. Yao Ailun and Chen Xiu were suddenly more outgoing, and Wang Zheng suddenly recalled how they were when they first entered Ares College, Chen Xiu shy and Yao Ailun a riot.

At this moment, Wang Zheng suddenly felt an intense feeling that it was good to be alive.

To grow together, to grow old together. This was life.

The girls were plastered all over Yao Ailun and Chen Xiu, and the two were feeling a little bothered. This was too much. Wang Zheng was watching them with a smile, truly happy. For him, that had wandered the border between life and death, and who would eventually head over, to be able to enjoy such a peaceful moment was a blessing indeed.

Without knowing it, Wang Zheng had already entered a mysterious state of mind, Primordial Regression Technique physical revelation!

As for the Primordial Regression Technique, Wang Zheng still did not fully understand it. After the third revelation, he had discovered that Primordial Regression Technique's use started to tend towards adjusting the world of energy. Although the environment was still lively, but he suddenly felt a sense that something was missing.

"Senior? Senior."

Wang Zheng snapped out of his reverie. The big-eyed, short-haired girl was sizing him up curiously. "Senior, you're really something. You can even daydream at a time like this?"

Wang Zheng was not sure how to take this. If he really got enlightened one day, he would really become Buddha. That was not good. Having feelings and appetites was part of being human.

"It's nothing. I haven't been so happy for a while, so I just lost it for a moment there."

"Senior, where have you changed schools to? Is it tough over there?" The big-eyed girl seemed to hold some interest towards Wang Zheng.

"Yea, a little. It's plenty dangerous, I'm from the Mecha Department."

"Oh, no wonder. Do you know Senior Runan? She's the model example of our school's Mecha Department, and she's now a second lieutenant!" Her reverent eyes had lit up again.

"Oh, a second lieutenant? That good?" Wang Zheng was also stunned.

"Of course! Such a combination of beauty and brains, a war goddess!"

He, Zhang Shan, and Meng Tian were already not in Ares College It seemed like only Zhang Runan still stayed in the Solar System to represent Ares College. But it seemed like she had talent to burn.

"Our Ares College has been ranked as the best on Earth. Principal Xiao Fei has been lauded as the most influential principal, and seniors Ye Zisu, Yan Xiaosu, and Zhang Runan are our model alumni."

Ye Zisu was in mecha design, Yan Xiaosu was in finance, Chen Xiu had furthered physics, and Zhang Runan was in Mecha. Compounded with Xiao Fei's influence, the name of Ares College had indeed grown. As for the other two big colleges, it was hard for them to compete after Lear left.

"I wonder if Zhang Runan still paints." Wang Zheng smiled.

"This guy. You can't speak like that. What do you mean paint? If the guys of the Mecha stream were more capable, then they would not need to depend on a girl. Senior Runan is much stronger than the guys." From the side, a long-haired girl quickly defended Zhang Runan.

Wang Zheng knew they had misunderstood. It looked like a lot of people did not know that Zhang Runan liked to draw.

"Xiao Lan, you're wrong. Wang Zheng is the only one qualified to talk about Zhang Runan like that." Yao Ailun said.

"It's him?"

"It's him!" A lone, intense voice piped up.

Chapter 721: The Talent That Appeared

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Nobody was sure when the girl dressed in military uniform walked in. She looked a little different, because Wang Zheng was used to a different image from Zhang Runan. But ever since Zhang Runan's ability had evolved, that image had disappeared, even if Zhang Runan was not satisfied with the way that things had turned out.

"Oh my, Senior Runan, when did you get back!"

A group of girls immediately abandoned Yao Ailun and Chen Xiu to throng around Zhang Runan. There were many more students at the door, clearly attracted by Zhang Runan.

This was after all a military school, and any major competition in the last few years would be graced with Zhang Runan's presence. She was the emblem of indomitability, with her despotic weapon held in one hand and sweeping the other military school challengers aside. Working in the army also reinforced military power. The most famous was eliminating pirate groups. As a student, she had already personally gone to the frontline, and fought and killed pirates. It fit her aloof character, killing men and women alike.

In fact, Zhang Runan was the biggest celebrity in the school now. This was why people said that Ares College's was on the rise.

The doorway was filled with people, and who knew how many more hundreds were waiting outside, just to catch a glimpse of Zhang Runan.

Zhang Runan had heard the news from General Meng Ao, and had rushed over as soon as possible.

Zhang Runan paid not the slightest mention to her fans. She was not one to care about the spotlight. Looking at Wang Zheng, a flash of emotion shimmered in her eyes.

She snapped to a crisp salute. "Leader!"

Such a cool stance and phrase coming from Zhang Runan was really something.

Wang Zheng was taken aback, and stood up to return the gesture. He smiled knowingly. "Runan, long time no see."

The onlookers were surprised… Leader?

What leader?

"I say, the two of you. Find a better place to reminisce." Yao Ailun smiled painfully, gesturing outside to the sea of curious heads.

Zhang Runan still held an indifferent face, but this was clearly not the place to talk. They would have to move.

Zhang Runan had clearly rushed back on purpose. Recently, she did not have any missions, but had not taken leave, which would have been all too easy to apply for. Everybody knew that Zhang Runan was favored by General Meng Ao, and Zhang Runan had used her ability to carve her own place in the military. A strength-type ability X user was fearsome indeed.

Zhang Runan's ability X had risen to C rank, but it was now impossible for her to enter Elite Academy. Elite Academy's views towards age and ability was very strict.

Zhang Runan was now much more easygoing than before. It looked like her time with the military had given her a modicum of slack. She quickly let her hair down in the presence of Chen Xiu and Yao Ailun. These two clearly had the knack.

"Leader, let's find time tomorrow to test each other's skills. Zhang Runan said.

"Oh, that's good. Let's see how much you've improved recently." Wang Zheng smiled affably. Actually, with his analysis ability, he could already roughly gauge Zhang Runan's current ability. This was the gap between them.

Zhang Runan chatted with Wang Zheng about the others from IG. After all, only a minority had gone to Elite Academy, while the majority stayed in the Solar System. Those who had stood out could enter the Federation and work there to accumulate military experience. They had not stopped toiling, only Wang Zheng had already jumped to a different level.

In just the short span of a year, the distance had exacerbated. The world was like that. Therefore, everybody wanted to stand on a higher plane. Even if they were the smallest fish there, they would still develop a different understanding and perspective.

Besides Zhang Runan, Raston, Taros, Lin Ruofeng had not done badly for themselves as well. They had grown since returning from IG, and were indeed stronger than the average soldier. They were gradually growing, to become the new core strength of the Solar System.

From Zhang Runan's words, Wang Zheng could feel the resolve that grew anew in the Solar System.

The two of them chatted for a long time, about their past stories and lives. It was hard to believe that such a reticent person like Zhang Runan could talk so much, even giving a carefree laugh occasionally. She showed a side of her that was feminine.

From the side, Yao Ailun was gnawing on Chen Xiu's leg, muttering about why this pork leg was a little scrawny. Yao Ailun was drunk and spouting nonsense, occasionally taking a break from his gnawing to cry a little.

Wang Zheng and Zhang Runan exchanged glances. "Ailun is not as popular as I thought he was." Zhang Runan said, although she did not understand CT.

Wang Zheng nodded. He had seen it from the start, although he had not expected the journey to be this difficult.

All these years, Old Deer had done much for Ailun. Who would have thought that his greatest CT opponent back in the day would actually become his most dependable friend?

Yao Ailun had done his best this time to give Old Deer face, even rejecting Old Deer's introduction offers. It was not for himself, but to tell others that Old Deer had not chosen to give his favor wrongly!

But not everything could be accomplished through sheer determination alone.

Mars, Sage Sect.

After Lie Xin and Lie Guang returned, there was no carefree vacation to speak off. What waited for them was even more arduous training, because both of them clearly felt the strength of others. Clearly, the Lie Flame Technique alone was insufficient to hold their own.

Either back down, or give it all you have!

Although Lie Xin was a girl, but her heroic heart was a fitting tribute to the Lie family tradition. She could not lose to the likes of Zhang Shan and Luo Fei.

The Martian version of difficult cruelty brought to its limit! Sage Odin wanted to force every last bit of ability out of them, and forge them into steel.

Lie Xin and Lie Guang had no complaints. They gritted their teeth, and endured Odin's drilling. This holiday was very important to both of them. They did not wish to be dropped from the team once school reopened!

Lie Xin did not say a word. In Elite Academy, although she had not fallen behind by too much, but she was far from the likes of Wang Zheng, Lear, and the rest. Besides, this distance was growing bigger! Now that she was back on Mars for holiday, she had no intention of slacking off, but rather to surpass her own bottleneck. And as for talent, Lie Xin had never doubted that she was as good as the rest.

Lie Guang was a little less receptive, squawking his complaints. "This method of training is really barbaric. Mentor, isn't this a little unscientific? Going too far is just as bad as going too little…"

Although he worked hard as well, but his character was clearly different from Lie Xin's. Besides, the time he spent dispirited was not easily made up for. That barren period was significant.

"Mentor, I'm hungry. Could I have something to eat?"

"Mentor, I'm thirsty."

"Mentor, I want to eat suckling pig for dinner."

Odin was exasperated with him, and simply increased his training difficulty. This brat was too big-mouthed. The harder the training was, the more his mouth groaned. But he also understood that this was simply Lie Guang's way of relieving the pressure and agony.

Some people held it in and brooded. Some moaned and groaned. Clearly Lie Guang was of the latter type.

Chapter 722: Yin Yang Harmonious Fire Technique

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

"Lie Xin. Continue. Remember the feeling of the Lie Flame. Imagine you are a volcano. The calm and brewing feeling before an explosion… Lie Guang, shut your mouth and follow me." Odin's patience was running out with this disciple. Perhaps it was time to tell him.

"Yes Mentor. Sis, I'll be right back. You keep at it!"

Lie Guang let out a long breath, and began to pack his energy back. After leaving Elite Academy, he had thought that he could take a break. In truth, he had trained himself hard at Elite Academy, only he was usually the happy-go-lucky type. But the moment they had returned to Mars, their mentor had summoned them, and these days were tough indeed.

"Mentor, is it good news? Can I eat now?"

Odin sternly looked at Lie Guang. "Move it."

Lie Guang cheekily followed behind. After many winds and twists, they came to the place which Odin had sealed shut.

It was his first time here. He sized it up curiously. The room was big, but the décor was simple. Not a single unnecessary piece of furniture was present. In the center of the room was a cauldron, which resembled the one in the Lie family secret room, only this one looked even more ancient and elaborate. On its surface floated a strange light that left one with a warm, fuzzy feeling.

"This is the mother cauldron of the Lie flame. The one in the Lie family is a replica. Sit down." Odin pointed to a seat on the side.

Odin's expression was especially grave. In Lie Guang's impression, when Mentor had this expression, it must be something of the gravest importance. Only, he had no idea why something so serious involved him.

Lie Guang quickly wiped the smile of his own face, and showed his serious side. "Yes, Mentor."

"Lie Guang, you might have wondered before why the Lie family adopted you?" Odin looked at Lie Guang, with a tinge of sadness.

Ping!

This question had struck at the depths of Lie Guang's heart. Out of so many orphans, why him? He had asked himself that question so many times. Had he just been fortunate?

"Mentor, I have always wanted to know." Surprisingly, Lie Guang felt at peace.

"The truth is that the Lie family discovering you was no coincidence. It was the Sage himself who spared no effort and finally found you, and set the wheels of fate in motion. The time for the Solar System to rise has come, and we have waited for too long. But it is a pity that this generation of Lie family's heir only has Lie Xin. But she is not perfect. The Lie family ancestors who have perfected the Lie Flame Technique have all been male." Odin said. He stared at Lie Guang, who still felt calm.

"And if Mars wishes to follow the Solar System's rise to greatness, and advance in the order, the Lie Xin of today is far from being able to shoulder that burden. But what we hope is not for Mars to be a secondary support, but to capitalize on this era of development. I think that the two of you must feel the gap after returning from Elite Academy X."

A miracle had not happened. Earth and Moon had made great strides forward, while Mars was falling behind.

"Mentor, I am sorry to have let you all down." Lie Guang said.

Lie Xin had talent, and ability. She was also clever. The only thing that limited her was the Lie Flame Technique.

And if Mars wanted to rise to greatness, it had to be the Lie Flame Technique. This was a spiritual emblem etched into every Martian's bones. The descendants of fire.

Lie Guang lowered his head. "Sister has tried her best. At Elite Academy, she never let up even once…"

Odin seemed not to hear this. "The Sage Sect spent 10 years searching the whole of Mars, no, the whole Solar System, to find a boy born with the body of fire. Being born with a body of fire is the physical pre-requisite for perfecting the Lie Flame Technique. You may have heard of the Yin Yang Harmonious Flame Technique in the Lie Flame Technique.

Lie Guang's face paled. From the start, the Lie family had never pinned any hopes of Lie Guang becoming great, because he did not have the Lie family blood. Yin Yang Harmonious Flame Technique was a vessel. All he had ever trained was prepared for the sake of someone else.

Odin observed Lie Guang closely, but Lie Guang's face quickly eased into a smile. "I am willing."

Lie Guang's smile caught the stern Odin off guard. With his life experience, he could tell that this smile was genuine. "Lie Guang, you must be clear that once this is complete, you will lose all your powers. You may even be weaker than a normal person."

"Haha, Mentor, I've honestly felt that these years have been good to me. What will come, will come. I think that even if I become invalid, the Lie family and the Sage Sect won't abandon me."

As his own disciple, how could Odin have no feelings? But this had been decided from the start, and Odin had participated in this plan as well. It was precisely because he had felt that things were unfair for Lie Guang that he had accepted him as disciple. But now he discovered that the more feelings he had, the harder this was.

"Mentor, do not feel sad for me. This works out well too. Since I'm the type that only wants to live a carefree life, this is best for everyone. Besides, if Sis gets stronger, things will be good for me too." Lie Guang was instead consoling Odin. "No matter what, this matter must be kept secret from Sis, or she will never agree to it."

Odin nodded. These had all been planned for. If Lie Xin could break free of the bottleneck, then even Odin did not want things to be this way. But the way things stood, they were falling behind. If they delayed any longer, then they would not even have the last chance.

"… Go and prepare yourself, then."

"Yes, Mentor. Give me a few days to enjoy myself." Lie Guang smiled.

Leaving Odin's room, Lie Guang stared at the sunlight outside. It felt especially harsh.

His spirit had been broken before. He had fallen before. He knew that all he had, had to be returned, even if it cost him his life. If it had been anybody else, Lie Guang would think of every way to rebel, even if the result took a down turn. But the person was Lie Xin. Who cared about the Lie family or Mars, but Lie Xin was the only one in the Lie family who cared about him, and treated him like family…

If he could help Lie Xin fulfil her heart's desire, then his life was a worthy price.

Although Wang Zheng was on break, but Xiao Fei had no intention of giving up on this free labor. If a pro like Wang Zheng came back, and she did not hold a few lessons for the students, that would be a waste. The cash register in Principal Xiao's brain was ringing loudly.

Yao Ailun and Chen Xiu were all busy, and Wang Zheng was wandering the streets of Beijing alone. After living in this city for so many years, although he had not left for long, but after returning, he felt that the changes had been drastic.

The bookshop had not changed much. The new boss had made decent sales. Wang Zheng passed this way because he was looking for news of Old Merchant. But there was none. The store personnel was again enthusiastic in selling him something, and Wang Zheng had been coerced into buying a few books again.

After a meal, Wang Zheng suddenly discovered that he was not used to such a free life. Perhaps in his bones he was meant for the life of risk and thrill. He was not fated to be at peace. At most he could steal half a day to idle away.

Wandering around, he had come to a net café. It seemed like this place still held an important place in his memory.

He had really not been here for a long time. That fat owner was not around, but the front desk girl had become even prettier. The décor looked more luxurious. It looked like CT's popularity had made the owner prosperous.

Wang Zheng chose a position. The net café was crowded and noisy. It was now divided into 3 large zones. One was the observatory, one was the pro zone, and the last was a free zone. The newly opened professional halls had the newest equipment, specially prepared for those amateur experts. CT now had competitions even for non-professionals, and they were always popular. When professional matches were on, people would watch professional matches. When there weren't any, the non-professional matches enjoyed a good viewership.

"The best now is Sun Tianxiong. Prince should retire already!"

"D*mn, piss off. Prince can still fight for 10 more years. Just on experience alone, Sun Tianxiong can spend a lifetime learning it."

"Enough already. The wave in front dies crashing on the beach. Sun Tianxiong is the number one pro in the Earth zone. His individual career competitive winrate is at 91%. How much is Prince's?"

"F*ck off! Prince is a team player, OK!"

"Only old men can be 'team players'. The time is now, when heroes are kings. For the celebrity invitational this time round, I put all my bets on Mu Guang. Whether popularity or winrate, he's the highest!"

A bunch of players were currently arguing in the great hall. This celebrity invitational was sponsored by the CT officials, and had been vigorously promoted, attracting some entertainment stars as well. There were 2 big prizes. The first was naturally for the final victor, the champion prize. The other was a popularity prize.

That depended on the commentator's reputation, whether they could invite a popular ace.

Mu Guang was currently the hot favorite, and called the new star after the Skeleton and Old Deer era. His commentary style was crisp, he was handsome and intellectual enough to be a star, and his fighting ability was also fairly high, considered a pro standard.

Mu Guang was nicknamed the God's Eye. But from a popularity standpoint, he was comparable to Old Deer in his heyday, and he was on good terms with the pro circle as well. That was why he had invited the most popular career pro Sun Tianxiong, ID MeMasterofUniverse. To dare to take such an ID in the pro circle spoke of his confidence, and his fans loved to call him Overlord.

And for the celebrity candidate, Mu Guang had invited Zhang Ziyan, who was very popular in the Earth entertainment industry. She had just been awarded the Solar System best supporting actress, and her popularity was very high. She was the sweet, cute type, and also a CT player. She was one of the faces of CT, and that Mu Guang had managed to invite her to join the team was very impressive.

This lineup was a sure-win in this invitational.

Besides Mu Guang, who dominated the public eye, there were a few other commentators as well, of which Yao Ailun was one of them. Yao Ailun had always been paired with Old Deer, but in truth Old Deer was the main anchor. Once he had split from Old Deer, he had not received much attention. In the end, the reverence for Old Deer had troubled Ailun considerably as well.

Prince had already agreed. Regardless of result, Prince's popularity was there, earned by his place in the scene. Prince had contributed the most to CT's development on Earth, which was why he was still around when others had quit. In name he was the leader, but in the team he could only be a support.

Actually, many people thought that it was time for Prince to retire, while the going was good. Why get beaten by a bunch of newcomers? That would be embarrassing.

Hearing such words, Prince just smiled, and did not reply.

When Yao Ailun had come asking, Prince had agreed without hesitation. This was one hurdle crossed, but he was still short of a star.

Chapter 723: Ailun Has Brother's Backing!

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

After so long, Ailun knew quite a few as well, but to get someone on the level of Zhang Ziyan was impossible. Mu Guang's connections were indeed impressive. In the end, Yao Ailun had not been in the scene for long, and after all he was just a student.

But this activity had a lot of promotional value, and the viewership was also very high. Therefore, Yao Ailun had sent out a few invitations to those CT celebrities who he admired, but he had only received 1 response, and they had asked for a fee.

Yao Ailun could only accept, because he had no choice. If he had gone to find Old Deer, perhaps things would be different, but he did not want to do that. He was not trash, and he would find his own way, step by step.

The celebrity invitational had already begun in the morning, and Mu Guang was indeed dominating it. With his and Sun Tianxiong's ability, plus Zhang Ziyan's popularity, they had earned more than 20 million CT "mecha cookies". In second place was "High Smile" with 9 million, and Yao Ailun was in third place. Thanks to Prince's popularity, he had about 6 million, and Mu Guang was targeting everybody.

The battles were easy. Zhang Ziyan just had to choose a support type mecha. Although she was a girl, but her handling was still good. Actually Sun Tianxiong alone could win 1v3, and Mu Guang's ability was also top-class within the commentators.

High Smile was also a commentator that had become famous recently, named after his extremely comical style. He had invited Flight's team captain ligo, who was well within the top 5 among professional players. As for his celebrity, he had invited Earth's very popular comedian Xiao Deyun. The three fought and laughed at the same time, their styles in harmony. They had attracted a large number of fun-loving people.

Yao Ailun had also won two consecutive matches. After all, it was an exhibition match, and nobody would take it that seriously. And Yao Ailun's star was Li Zhuoer, who was also rather famous on Earth. Although her CT standard was not as good as Zhang Ziyan, but her temper was great, and her reputation even greater.

"Yao Ailun what the hell is wrong with you. You're only ranked 3rd. The two of you are really trash. Let me tell you something. I came here to take 1st place. That skank Zhang Ziyan actually dares to get ahead of me!"

In the recess room, Li Zhuoer was throwing a tantrum, and Yao Ailun and Prince could only look at each other. Neither had expected the sweet and warm Li Zhuoer to be so hard to please in person.

"Keke, Sister Li…"

"You're the sis! Your whole family are sissies! Which part of me looks like a 'sister'? I heard your reputation was big, and a disciple of Old Deer, which was why I came. But now I've suffered half a day as some prop. Besides, you're supposed to invite a professional player. What's a professional player? It's someone who is popular, and top class. Not some old relic!"

Li Zhuoer stared at Prince. She held no interest at all in this guy past his time.

"Change him out, or do without me for the evening's competition."

"Miss Li, didn't we agree beforehand? I've also paid your fee."

"What, aren't I here? And to have disgraced myself for the day as well." Li Zhuoer was turning ugly now.

From the side, the manager quickly came over to support her. "Yao Ailun, it's not that I have anything against you personally, but you didn't handle this very fairly. We thought this was arranged by Old Deer, and we would be treated well. But look how it all turned out. We're just setting up Zhang Ziyan for success. Our Li Zhuoer has become a prop. You're alone for the night. Our Zhuoer is not feeling well, and needs rest."

In the recess room only Prince and Yao Ailun were left, and the lunchbox that Li Zhuoer had overturned.

Yao Ailun was indeed feeling down. It seemed like he was nothing in others' eyes.

Prince smiled slightly, patting Yao Ailun's shoulder. "Don't mind it too much. If you like CT, you must learn to endure."

"Sorry to have dragged you into this."

Prince shook his head. "Actually everybody thinks I should quit. Do you know why I haven't left?"

Yao Ailun raised his head and looked at Prince. He had no idea why, and was curious. Clearly, Prince was not short on money, and was also popular. Why stay here to be snubbed by the newcomers? If he retired, he could do anything he wanted easily, and his status and position would give him face anywhere. But if he did not retire, then he had to follow the professional rules. And especially against someone like Sun Tianxiong, who loved to break the famous names.

"Actually there's not much to it. I just like it." Prince smiled. "A long time ago, I doubted as well. I even thought about changing fields at one point. Back then, Earth's CT was still unpopular, and I could not earn much. But a certain person's appearance changed everything. I found that I loved the feeling of battle. If my experience can help a newcomer just a little, then my presence is still of value."

Yao Ailun was not sure how to respond. There was nobody who loved CT more than Prince.

"Also, sometimes, one should ask when one needs help. Friends are for such occasions." Prince smiled. He wanted Yao Ailun to look for Old Deer. Yao Ailun was still young, and needed a boost. Friends would not begrudge such things.

Yao Ailun stared at Prince. "Thank you. I know what to do!"

"Haha, alright, then I'm going out for a walk."

In the net café, everyone was talking about this and that, but Wang Zheng found out that Yao Ailun had spoken rightly. His competition was not trivial, and this was no longer the amateur scene.

In school, Chen Xiu was still rallying a bunch of people to support Yao Ailun. Voting happened throughout the day, and only the most popular could enter the night's fight. Only they had no expected that Yao Ailun would encounter someone pulling out.

No wall could truly block the wind. Very quickly, the news spread on the web that Li Zhuoer had withdrawn from the match because she was not feeling well. And this was an invitational match. If somebody withdrew, a replacement was needed. But at this time, who could be found?

Surely nobody would be willing to take this up.

Ever since Yao Ailun had struck out alone, he had encountered all sorts of difficulties, but the audience did not care about these. They only cared about Zhang Ziyan.

Wang Zheng's Skylink rang. It was from Yao Ailun.

Once through, Yao Ailun started to wail. "Wang Zheng, your brothers are getting bullied. What to do? Help me get back on my feet!"

Wang Zheng smiled slightly. "What do you have in mind?"

"F*ck, the water here is really deep…"

Yao Ailun laid out the situation for Wang Zheng, and Wang Zheng understood. He smiled. "Wait for my news. Tonight, we'll play together."

"Right!"

Yao Ailun wanted Wang Zheng to be the star. After all, Skeleton was the creator of CT's glory, and also the most famous amateur player. Although it had been a while, but surely some of the audience would know him. The important thing was to overcome the immediate hurdle.

Yao Ailun also heaved a sigh of relief. It seemed like the crisis was over.

He went out to look for Prince, but as he turned the corner, he came face to face with Mu Guang and his cronies.

"Ah. Isn't this super Ailun? I heard you ran into some trouble. Do you need my help?" Mu Guang taunted.

"No need."

"Keke, if you do, don't stand on ceremony. Don't be the one who makes the entire program falter. That would be fairly unprofessional." Mu Guang said.

"I can handle this."

"Haha, it must be Old Deer then. Tsk tsk, our super Ailun is really something. He can't even walk after being separated from Old Deer."

Mu Guang had been resentful that Yao Ailun had stolen his best anchor prize the last time, and had been looking to get back at him. Finally after Old Deer had taken a step back, his opportunity had come.

"Birds of a feather flock together. It looks like he can only find those things hanging on to life, like Prince." Sun Tianxiong was only 18, and very young. He was filled with a sense of power and the arrogance of youth. He could beat a guy like Prince with 1 hand tied behind his back.

Yao Ailun smiled slightly. "The day will come when you get old too. Some people command respect even when they grow old. Others will forever live only as a negative example."

��Respect? From your paltry popularity? Are you joking?"

"Friend Ailun, is the likes of Li Zhuoer a bird of the same feather as well?" Zhang Ziyan simpered. A gentle enough phrase, but it hid a sharp knife that cut deep.

Yao Ailun smiled bitterly. There was nothing more to be said. This girl was not only pretty, but was dangerous as well.

At this moment, the fans surged in, and Mu Guang immediately changed to a warm and welcoming expression.

Yao Ailun knew the fans were not there for him. He had to find Prince to discuss the night's match.

Chapter 724: Another Mysterious Guest

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

There was still half an hour to the evening's match. The 4 teams with the highest popularity had been split into two matches, with the winner entering the finals.

Mu Guang's "God's Eye" against High Smile's "Happy Camp."

Yao Ailun's "Super Ailun Cool" against Lilith Zhen's "Dream Plan."

Without question, Mu Guang and High Smile's matchup was labelled the final show. Whether in popularity or ability, this match-up was superior.

The competition was about to start, and Yao Ailun had yet to receive a call from Wang Zheng. Damn, would he drop the ball at such a crucial moment?

If it was not a desperate situation, he would not have wanted to trouble Wang Zheng either. Such a celebrity invitational was not just about winning. Most crucially was the entertainment factor. They had to play beautifully, in a way that was well-received, and unique.

On this point, Mu Guang and High Smile were all over it.

And for his own style?

If his style had been banter with Old Deer, then now he needed to find his own style.

It was just about 10 minutes to the start before Wang Zheng's call finally came.

"Ancestor, you're finally here. Quickly prepare." Yao Ailun said anxiously.

"No rush, no panic, no fear. I've found you a guest." Wang Zheng said.

"Eh? You're not going?" Yao Ailun was taken aback.

Wang Zheng laughed. "I'm not a star. So… I found you a star. You all had better get on quick."

"Tch. You brat, what stars do you know? You wouldn't be deceiving me, would you."

"Damn, am I so unreliable? Definitely a fit for your style." Wang Zheng grinned.

"Tch, I'm already in this state. What style is there to speak of?" Yao Ailun said self-mockingly.

"Wrong. We came from Dorm 007. We walk the high road!" Wang Zheng encouraged Yao Ailun. "Chen Xiu and the rest are watching on, as well as many people from the school. Don't let your fans down now."

Yao Ailun was swayed. Damn, at most he would lose face, which wouldn't be the first time either. He adjusted his spectacles. "Who do they think I am? This is just a small stage!"

"Right, who did you find?"

"That's confidential!"

Yao Ailun was stunned. Confidential… But this was not a bad way to deal with it.

On the other side, the host was introducing the 2 teams, and the first match would be Mu Guang's team against High Smile's team.

The popularity had already broken 10 million. This was a hot event, and finals always had such viewerships. Besides, both teams were made up of well-known people.

The match was fairly entertaining. Both pros had chosen support positions, to allow for the commentators and guests to shine. This also allowed the professionals to show off their overall strategic skills.

It had to be said that even for a support, Sun Tianxiong was owning. He brought their momentum up. Mu Guang by himself was already strong. Zhang Ziyan just had to brainlessly give everything. In the end, after half an hour, Mu Guang's team won, and the popularity soared at 13 million. This was also a record high, and on par with professional competition finals.

Closely following was the second match, with Yao Ailun's team against Lilith Zhen's team.

The host introduced them. Due to Li Zhuoer's ill health, Yao Ailun's team had changed their celebrity at the last minute, but it was a mystery guest, and the identity had yet to be revealed.

It had to be said that the suspense had attracted considerable interest. Although only 8 million people were online, but it had stabilized. After all, a large proportion of the viewers had come for the 1st match.

Below, Mu Guang was laughing with Sun Tianxiong. This was completely their stage, and their era. Old Deer and Prince were after their time now, and counted for nothing. If they groveled, they might get enough to get by, but if they tried to put on airs, they would beat them up.

Prince as a support, and Yao Ailun chose Storm Swordsman. The mystery guest chose Wind God.

In truth, Yao Ailun was waiting in anticipation. Perhaps Wang Zheng had come on himself after all.

Many on campus were waiting in suspense as well. They were rooting for Yao Ailun, who was after all one of their own.

In this time, those that dared to use Wind God in the Earth zone were of a considerably high standard. Even Prince had not dared to use it recently. The operational difficulty of Wind God was too high. It was Earth zone's emblematic mecha, and a slight falter would see it crumble.

Even the host said that the bravery of this guest was commendable, and that he held expectations for a spectacular performance.

But…

Reality was often cruel. This Wind God user was clearly a noob. Prince was reeling as well. He almost busted a gut supporting. Luckily Yao Ailun's standard was way above Lilith's, and although the opponent's celebrity was better than their own, but they managed to pull ahead. The opponent's professional was Ailas from KT team, who clearly did not use his full force, giving some face to Prince.

Not every professional player was as arrogant as Sun Tianxiong. This was an entertainment match, and seniors should be given some face.

In the end, Yao Ailun's team took a surprising win. The host's commentary had favored Prince heavily. That was all that could be said about this match. Although they had thought it would be a pleasant surprise, but it was clear that this mystery guest was simply a last-minute plug. In order to hold interest, he naturally had to focus on Prince's contributions, and appeal to the nostalgic memories.

After the match ended, there was a half hour break before the finals.

Ailun's Super Cool team against Mu Guang's God's Eye.

After all, it was the finals, and the view count returned to 10 million. But clearly Yao Ailun's side was lacking. Old Deer had not said anything all this while. Clearly, he hoped that Yao Ailun could extricate himself from the situation. If he showed his face at this time, then it really signaled that Yao Ailun could not make it alone, and he would be looked down upon.

It was at this time that Yao Ailun and Prince fell out.

"Ailun, where did you find that mystery guest? That…" Prince was annoyed. If it was not for the fact that his counterpart had shown him respect, they would have been directly eliminated. That person was completely a noob.

It was normal for the entertainment industry to be noob, after all it depended on their reputation, not ability. But Prince was curious as to who was this noob.

Yao Ailun was lost as well. He could not hide things from Prince. "At first I asked Skeleton, but this doesn't seem to be him."

"What!" Prince stood up happily. "Where is he?"

Yao Ailun called Wang Zheng on the Skylink. Prince roughly knew Wang Zheng's situation. He was the true biggest fan of Skeleton, even till now. But he also knew that the chance of Skeleton returning was not big. After all, a person of that caliber would have no interest in things like these.

"Boss, what are you playing at? Who did you invite? We were sabotaged by you. If it wasn't for Prince, it would have been over for us." Yao Ailun wailed, almost in tears.

Wang Zheng guffawed, ignoring Yao Ailun. "Prince, long time no see. I see you're as good as ever."

It was the first time that Prince chatted like this with Wang Zheng. Holding down the emotions welling inside, he said "I'm old, and getting slow. The opponent cut me slack, otherwise we would have lost."

"That's called intimidation. The only one capable of it in the Earth CT scene is you. As expected of my old rival."

For some reason, Wang Zheng's words caused Prince to be afire with motivation. He felt like enduring to this day had been worthy it.

"I hope we can match again some day!" Prince said.

"Haha, the day you retire I'll definitely be there. And now the noob that dragged you down just now is here to apologize."

Wang Zheng grinned. As he spoke, he swiped a chat screen over, and the image bloomed.

Yao Ailun and Prince turned to stone.

Yao Ailun rubbed his eyes. "D*mn me, I'm hallucinating."

Prince's mouth fell open. "Is this the real person?"

Huiyin was the very picture of contrition. "I didn't expect to be that bad. As Brother Wang Zheng said, I've been nothing but trouble for you."

"Little wench, for the next round choose something you're familiar with. You almost put these two in their grave."

After a beat, from a certain guest room, two guys' whoops and howls could be heard.

Wang Zheng was speechless as well. Was this really Yao Ailun, who came from noble birth? And Prince, who was stable as a mountain?

Seeing the two manly guys screaming for Huiyin, Wang Zheng was also happy.

In the entertainment, he only knew Lin Huiyin. Besides, the real person did not need to be present. Just an image would be enough. He had asked her thoughts, and she was also on vacation. She had been bored out of her skull since returning. If she did not have to care about the stir it would create, she would have come to Earth to find Wang Zheng earlier.

Hearing Wang Zheng invite her to such an interesting activity, she immediately accepted. She was no stranger to CT. Before, she had seen Wang Zheng use Wind God superbly, and had thought it was super cool. She had wanted to try it out, but things had turned out this way.

In another guest room nearby, Mu Guang and the rest were chatting lightly. They were currently holding a press interview. They felt that they were destined to win, and also take the popularity prize as well.

Perhaps Yao Ailun and Prince were going too overboard. Their shrieks were heard all the way over here as well.

In front of the press, Mu Guang still held his composure. He still held respect for Old Deer, a senior in the commentary world. He would endeavor to surpass his senior's brilliance, and create a new world.

And as for Yao Ailun?

He was far from anything!

"Mu Guang, what do you think are the odds of Yao Ailun's team winning?"

Mu Guang smiled slightly. "If I said 50 50, everyone would call me a liar. I think it will be a walkover, but we will definitely try to bring a spectacular match for everybody. But this will require us to tie up one of Tianxiong's hands, and also for our Goddess Ziyan's fans not to go overboard. Haha."

From the gues troom, there was loud laughter, whereas no attention was paid to Yao Ailun's side. The media simply chased the sensational news. They had thought that Old Deer would support his disciple, but he had not made an appearance from start to end. In the end, his showing had been so poor, and there was nothing to talk about. They clearly did not want the last final to turn into a joke.

The organizers were speechless as well. Although this had been Old Deer's plan, but any program had rules. Sponsors, advertisement arrangements, and of course personnel.

Prince was not coming on for the last match?

D*mn, this shitty team was at least worth watching for Prince. Many had come just for his sake.

Prince was going to commentate?

Another mystery guest?

What?

Chapter 725: Brag Of A Lifetime

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

This was like kids playing house. Yao Ailun clearly had no intention of staying in this industry.

"Keke, Mr Yao, how could you not abide by the rules? You're no newcomer yourself, how can you just change here and there?"

"Isn't this an entertainment match? And you never said changes were not allowed?"

"It's not that. We need to do pre-match promotions, to live up to our sponsors requests. We have a standard to respect here."

"The person I invited is of the highest standard!" Yao Ailun said.

The organizer in charge Lee Duo guffawed. "I say, Yao Ailun. You just keep your head down and finish the last match properly. Stop fooling around. If it wasn't for the sake of Old Deer, no one would even bother to listen to your rubbish!"

"I'm serious."

"Keke, and who was that noob from the last round? Someone from the entertainment circle, or a passerby? If you could even get some third-rate star, I would stay silent. Do you even dare to reveal the identity!" Lee Duo could not help saying. This brat just did not know when to back down.

"Lin Huiyin."

"And which unsavory slum did this Lin Hui… Oh, the one from Aslan?" It suddenly dawned on Lee Duo.

"That's right."

After a slight pause, Lee Duo exploded with laughter. "You must be sick in the brain. If you can actually invite Lin Huiyin, then you must be my biological father!"

"Ah, Ailun, you actually have such an old son?" A moving voice was heard.

Lee Duo was petrified. He rubbed his eyes. F*ck, was this for real?

Princess of Aslan???

The most popular soul singer of the day, participating in this?

"I wonder if I am qualified to join?" Lin Huiyin said cheekily. Brother Wang Zheng was really bad as well, to taunt people like that. But these people really had an evil eye, to dare to bully Yao Ailun.

"Qualified, qualified. Definitely qualified! Father, er… Brother Ailun, erm. Say, about this incident, a great guy like yourself would definitely forgive my lowly mistake. This is definitely a mystery VIP. I expected no less, no less, I say! This is all my mistake!"

Lee Duo was a guy who knew which way the wind was blowing. He wouldn't even mind calling him ancestor, let alone father. For eminence like Lin Huiyin to actually consent to participate in such a small program was really unnatural.

"And the other person is?" Lee Duo suddenly recalled.

Lin Huiyin fluttered her lashes. "A secret."

"Yes, yes, yes. A secret, confidential. I won't ask more." Lee Duo felt suddenly lighter. A small fry like himself had actually spoken to Highness Huiyin. He could brag for life about this!

"That's fine then. We'll be preparing." Yao Ailun switched off the Skylink.

Lee Duo felt different now. He was on cloud nine.

At this time, a worker walked over. "Boss, it's starting soon. Is the directorial intent to favor Mu Guang's side? This is Mu Guang's request. Yao Ailun's team doesn't have anything anyway, we might as well give up on them."

"You worthless piece of garbage. Contract Mu Guang to just 2 minutes, tops. Give 10 minutes to Brother Ailun's team!"

"Keke, Boss, that wouldn't be too good, would it?" The worker was wondering if the boss man had mixed up the teams.

"Haha, the whole of me is not feeling too good right now. Go and broadcast Princess Huiyin's music immediately, and also hint that she's the mystery guest from the last match." Lee Duo could not keep the cat in the bag anymore. "Right, go, and bring drinks and things to Brother Ailun. Send the best make-up artists over. Send all the best things over!"

"Boss, this will raise accusations of playing politics…"

"Get moving, you pig-head! Princess Huiyin is the guest that Brother Ailun invited! Forget it, I'll personally go! Bunch of pigs!"

Lee Duo left with a swagger.

Highness Huiyin?

The worker was stunned. F*ck, was that possible? Did the sun rise from the west today?

On the official site, a new announcement was immediately put up: Who is the mystery guest?

In the background was Lin Huiyin's song. This was too obvious a hint for anybody to miss, only nobody believed it.

Mu Guang had heard the news as well. "Lin Huiyin? That's the funniest thing I've heard in my life. If he can invite Lin Huiyin, I'll eat this table!"

"You say Lee Duo has gone over?"

Invite Lin Huiyin?

This was the stuff of dreams…

But such thoughts were not left alone for too long. As the competition time neared, the official website gave the answer – Lin Huiyin!

In just 3 minutes, the popularity exploded, and the view count rose to 20 million.

In this situation, many people were still doubting.

When the audience saw the clashing teams, they discovered that Prince had been substituted, which meant that there was one more mystery guest.

This slot must be for the professional player. After all, each team needed a pro, otherwise it would be too meaningless.

When Lin Huiyin's image appeared to greet everybody, the whole channel went crazy. The numbers rose steadily, and the sponsors were crazy with joy. This was like biscuits falling from the sky. If they had known that a heavy-duty star like Lin Huiyin was appearing, they would have taken the sponsorship request even at 20 times the price.

This Yao Ailun actually had such connections, it overturned the heavens. He was too low-profile, too low-profile!

Word spread that Yao Ailun had invited Lin Huiyin, even if she was not present live. But even just participation was out of every expectation, but had happened.

In an instant, Goddess Ziyan evaporated.

A real goddess had appeared!

But the competition still had to go on.

All the media had vanished. It was obvious where they had gone.

They wanted to be the first after the competition ended to interview the noble Brother Ailun.

Both sides entered the arena. The walkover final had suddenly become super hot.

Prince was actually guest commentating as well.

The introductions of the teams began. "Ailun Super Cool team, bringing out everybody's idol, Goddess Huiyin, her Highness!��

The broadcast room was just about exploding.

The princess' popularity was unparalleled, and the entire planet paid attention.

The popularity broke 30 million without a sweat.

"The tank is of course Ailun, who everybody knows and loves. He has brought us countless pleasant surprises. Let us welcome him with warm applause."

Countless mecha cookies began to flood in. It was at an uncontrollable stage. Things were really going crazy. Suddenly, Ailun had become incomparably important.

Who could have thought that the same Yao Ailun who always depended on Old Deer actually knew the Aslan princess?

"The 3rd member, is another mystery guest, and the leader, playing a support position. Now some of you may be asking why I got kicked out. Let's just say this. If it was anybody else, I would be extremely indignant. In the CT industry, I give no face to anybody weaker than me, and has been here for a shorter time than myself. But when this person comes, I can only back down. This is my idol."

The crowd was in an uproar. This was really mind-blowing. Prince was beyond reproach. At his peak, he was always number one, and although some of the players now could beat him, but that did not mean they were comparable to him at his peak. His idol?

Who was it?

This lineup seemed suddenly dangerous.

Sun Tianxiong's teeth were itching. F*ck this sudden surprise. Who cared if you were a princess or not. He would still thrash them all. Showing off needed to be backed by ability!

He was without doubt the number 1 in the Earth zone!

And to Mu Guang's way of looking at it, there was only one way to win back the crowd, and that was to beat the opponent. Princess Aslan was clearly an amateur, and Yao Ailun's standard was not as good as his own. The mystery guest could not be much. At least, no one in the professional industry would help him. An amateur pro, damn, he would be beaten with one hand tied behind their backs.

Entering mecha selection screen.

The support mystery guest… picked Wind God support, and also added magnetic source support equipment.

Was this even viable?

Chapter 726: Noobs and Honored Guests

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Sun Tianxiong was joyful. Whoever this outsider was, he would destroy him!

Wind God's movement capabilities were not bad, but after adding lodestone gear, it would affect its movements. And once its speed capabilities were gone, it could neither attack or defend well. It was completely useless.

Wang Zheng Wind God (Support)

Yao Ailun Overlord (Defense)

Lin Huiyin Lightning Swordsman (Offense)

Yao Ailun's use of Arbiter's Overlord made their defense substantial, and also had some attack capabilities.

Sun Tianxiong Jungle Scamper (Support)

Mu Guang Slayer (Offense)

Zhang Ziyan Heavy Rider Type III (Defense)

From the lineup, Mu Guang's team looked like they would definitely win. Of course, they could not hope to compete in terms of popularity. The moment Lin Huiyin appeared, they had been done for. But at least they could take the victory, and still share in the limelight. Although your reputation was big, but an outsider was an outsider.

Especially Sun Tianxiong. He had directly chosen Jungle Scamper. Although it was a support, it clearly had great offensive capabilities. Such a mecha was used to show off. Lin Huiyin's presence was a good thing after all. Perhaps it could help him increase his reputation to sweep across the Solar System.

Therefore, how could Big God Sun be content as a lowly support? Mu Guang's choice of Slayer was also a strong move. As for the "Goddess", she had already been completely ignored. Under normal circumstances, the Goddess would be carefully kept in the back. But for the victory, now she had become a meat shield.

Zhang Ziyan also had not expected to be abandoned like this. The entertainment value of the match was gone now. In order to secure the win, she had to stand at the front.

In terms of firepower, especially at the mid-range, Mu Guang's side had the advantage. Given Sun Tianxiong's skills, as long as they controlled the tempo well, this was a sure win.

Under heavy expectations, the competition began.

Mu Guang had already rushed out, overly eager. Slayer aimed to subdue Overlord, leaving Sun Tianxiong to deal with the other two.

"Looks like Mu Guang's team is very anxious. Given this kind of movement, it looks like a 2 v 3." Prince joked.

As for Zhang Ziyan, she simply had to guarantee her own safety. They had intended to fight 2 v 3 from the start. Rather than decreasing their battle power, this in fact made it easier for them to shine, because Heavy Rider Type III had added a heavy sniper attack. Zhang Ziyan was not completely useless. Even interference was good, and this was a defensive turret type mecha.

Zhang Ziyan followed slowly behind. Her actual thoughts on the situation were unclear, but it was obvious that this match had evolved from entertainment into a competition.

As for Yao Ailun's fight, he seemed not to have changed his style much. The 3 mecha maintained their formation as they advanced, with Wind God in the middle. Having added the lodestone gear, it was a little clunky and unwieldy, its agility being punished.

Nobody used this setup. Whether in CT or real life, such a method was sure to fail.

"Prince, although you favor our Goddess' team, but from the way things appear to me presently, Sun Tianxiong's battle strategy is clear. A sniper can use its mobility to completely rout Overlord, which is the matchup between Mu Guang and Yao Ailun. Sun Tianxiong chose Jungle Scamper, which in normal situations plays the support, but in his hands will be terrifying. I think if Wind God shrugs off the lodestone system, it might have a chance."

The other host Small Wisdom laughed.

"The Goddess' battle power is not necessarily 0." Prince smiled.

"As for that, it will depend on whether they are willing to go hard." Small Wisdom also laughed. "In terms of victory, Mu Guang's side seems better equipped, although it does come at the cost of being less entertaining."

Originally, people had wanted to see an entertaining match of how a pro would work with two amateurs, but now things were specifically targeted. It seemed like Yao Ailun's side was still trying to preserve the entertainment value. Otherwise, why would Wind God take a lodestone setup?

The first to enter the Mu Guang team's attack radius. Once the sights were locked, Zhang Ziyan fired the first shot, a heavy-duty laser shot.

Directly at Lin Huiyin's Lightning Swordsman!

They did not know whether it was a woman's sudden improvement at critical moments. From the start, Zhang Ziyan held all the advantages, so everybody had let her off easy, given her goddess-like aura. But suddenly she had become a normal person again. A woman's jealousy was a frightening thing. This shot was both fast and accurate.

Lin Huiyin was already prepared, because she had a good captain. The Lightning Swordsman made a quick twirl to evade it. This mecha's movement capabilities were good.

And Lin Huiyin was born confident. She did not feel like her assuming the main force position was a problem at all.

"So cruel!"

"She actually fired such a heavy shot at the Princess, her Highness. Drag her out and behead her!"

"Poisonous witch no. 1 in history!"

Zhang Ziyan did not know this. She had simply wanted to attract everybody's attention with that shot, and to give herself some credit. She felt that a little wench like Lin Huiyin did not have her feminine wiles, and her looks were "so-so" only. She had just been born into a better position, and exoticism was more popular. And as for CT, she was much stronger than many people. But she had forgotten that fans were not reasonable people, whether those rooting for her or against her. It depended on who was more popular.

Sun Tianxiong's Jungle Scamper suddenly leapt forward, immediately firing an electric javelin, aimed directly at the Anonymous Guy support. After it left his hand, he did not even bother to look. He immediately changed to half-beast mode, and leapt towards Lin Huiyin. The feeling of crushing the Princess under his body must feel good, even if it was just virtually.

But halfway through his jump… he had been stopped?

That confident electric javelin attack had missed, and he had been snared by the lodestone attraction system.

He had not even felt anything???

How was that possible!

Even in a professional match, he had never been sucked in before!!!

But the opponent was just a support. What could he do?

He completely ignored it, and changed shape again, accumulating energy in the electric javelins in both hands.

Kill!

Shing, shing…

"Mother-and-son soul-hunting Electric javelins!" Small Wisdom yowled. "Our Tyrant Sun is going at it for real now. From the get-go, he's using his ultimate move from the last competition."

The two javelins flew out, one in front and one behind, but their power and throwing method used completely different techniques.

Wang Zheng's eyes lit up as well. This guy knew his stuff.

Both javelins had rotational energy. The javelin behind was more powerful, and when the javelins intersected, they would create some static energy response, which would alter the two javelins. To an outsider, this would be completely unpredictable.

The live broadcast was already analyzing this. In fact, Sun Tianxiong had his strong points. This mother-son soul-hunting Javelins were nicknamed "Misunderstanding". The two rotating electric javelins created a small magnetic field. As they intersected, there would be a magnetic response which changed their trajectory. It was completely unstoppable, let alone to know the direction.

On the other side, Yao Ailun had already been trapped by Slayer, and being beaten to the point where he could only give way. Mu Guang was celebrating. Slayer's high attack was shining, and Yao Ailun could only cower behind his huge shield and retreat constantly. And Lin Huiyin was receiving shot after shot from Zhang Ziyan. One amateur was inaccurate, and the other was dodging randomly. It was indeed a lively scene, although 99 percent of the hearts went out to Princess Huiyin. How could one bear to take her down? The only part left to Zhang Ziyan from now on was that of the evil witch.

With his ultimate move used, Sun Tianxiong immediately changed shapes. The half-beast Jungle Scamper pounced forward. As long as Wind God activated its shields, then it was nothing but a sitting duck.

Unstoppable!

The audience were exclaiming loudly as well. As a top professional player, Sun Tianxiong had actually used such an unstoppable move. This was something that even professional players would sigh at. Did this mean the competition was about to end? Once they thought of their Goddess being beaten, they could not bear it. What kind of pro was Yao Ailun, he looked like a noob.

Protect the Goddess!

Protect the Goddess!

Countless mecha cookies began to accumulate. It was horrible.

Lin Huiyin's appeal was indeed so great it was scary. Uncaring of the rules, everybody was shouting that it was not allowed to hit the Goddess…

This was a competition.

The definitely-dead Wind God was sitting as though it was blind. It did not activate the energy shield, but maintained its energy in the lodestone system. Wind God's energy shields were innately weaker, and to waste it in the lodestone system, this was definitely a scrub.

What kind of noob was invited?

Countless people had already turned their hatred towards this nameless guy who had not protected the Goddess. Bring him out and behead him!

… Brought out and beheaded.

Suddenly, it had become a trending phrase.

But at this time, Wind God seemed to not have given up. 2 beams of attraction energy beams shot out.

"The intention of this is to… catch the electric javelins?" Small Wisdom was reeling. As an old CT hand like Old Deer, he had never seen someone so noob.

Prince's eyes were flashing strongly. … Miss!

"D*mn, this guy is a maniac. How is that possible!"

"That's right. If he catches them, I'll go buy a pair of chopsticks and swallow them whole!"

The two electric javelins grazed past him…

Wait, wait. Grazed past? Did they miss?

The unerringly accurate mother-son tornado soul-hunter javelins had missed?

Had they been disturbed by the lodestone system? But how could he have predicted it? How could he have known the trajectory?

This was definitely impossible!

But something even more unbelievable happened!

The electric javelins had been stopped. If he had not used some magnetic fields it would have been more difficult. But playing such petty tricks with Wang Zheng… He had been tinkering with these magnetic games since he was 10.

The two electric javelins seemed to be tethered in place. Then they flew out with killing intent, arcing towards the Jungle Scamper rushing head-on.

Sun Tianxiong reacted completely on instinct. Lowering his head, he leapt to the side, executing a super-speed twist. He almost fell badly. He would never have dreamed that such a thing would happen.

But Wind God had not used the chance to attack. He was a support. Supports didn't attack.

"Ailun, go!"

"I have it!" The perennially defending Yao Ailun could stand it no longer. Overlord blasted into the air!

It left the melee and rushed straight at Wind God…

What were they intending…

Wang Zheng's mouth twitched. He tossed out the magnetic source, and at the same time used the attraction energy system. Lin Huiyin, who had been waiting for this moment for a long time, immediately rushed over with her Lightning Swordsman.

Overlord swept past Wind God, directly rushing towards Jungle Scamper. Sun Tianxiong laughed coldly. Did they think he was an invalid? It was so slow that only a ghost would be hit.

Immediately revving the controls, Jungle Scamper leapt aside like lightning, but now the real killing blow had come.

Wind God was forcibly pursuing Overlord. The magnetic attraction had a limit. Once exceeded, the bond would break.

Chapter 727: Counterattack

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

But…

Wind God actually followed through with the Overlord.

"This… how is this possible?" Small Wisdom was shocked.

Prince smiled slightly. "The magnetic power source alone is not enough, but if you add the lodestone system, it will work."

Overlord's charge was too fierce. Just the lodestone system or the magnetic system would not be able to hold it. But when combined, there was a higher success rate, but the timing had to be exquisite.

Wind God chased the Overlord as it flew through the air, at the same time dragging Lightning Swordsman over. But Overlord still rushed out, simply bringing it along for the ride. Wind God landed on the ground. Lightning Swordsman rushed over, and Wind God spun around into a hunched position, receiving Lightning Swordsman and flinging it out at the same time, using the lodestone system to cut the momentum.

Lightning Swordsman only had one move – brainless cutting!

Lin Huiyin was rushing ahead, completely blind. It was her first time in such a situation. She left it completely up to Wang Zheng.

Sun Tianxiong dodged confidently. They were strutting proudly after defending one attack. Bunch of amateur noobs.

… What was this black thing???

BOOM BOOM BOOM…

The poor number one pro was completely exposed to Huiyin's cuts. His energy shields had, like an amateur, not even been activated in time.

Wind God had turned back confidently, as if already knowing how things would turn out. Using level 3 magnetic power, it advanced quickly, dodging Zhang Ziyan's brainless attacks. The lodestone system activated and Overlord followed closely, right smack into the Slayer that was rushing over to help.

Yao Ailun had been subject to all kinds of taunts recently. He had filled his gut with anger, and he flung it out all at once.

Whoosh… a miss.

Immediately, he followed up by bounding towards Slayer. Mu Guang was still calm, and his standard was still there. He had been unsettled by this consecutive combination of attacks, and immediately dodged, but he tripped and rolled.

Unknowingly, Slayer had retreated into a magnetic power source and, at a tug from the lodestone system, he lost his balance. In his vision, all he could see was Yao Ailun's ass teabagging Slayer.

BOOM…

Yao Ailun did not hold back either. His huge shield slapped towards Slayer's cranium. Slayer activated shields, but a mecha like Slayer had to maintain its distance. Rolling up close with Overlord was asking for death.

Yao Ailun was privately thinking that the longer the shield lasted the better. He wanted to shout out loud: "Let me whack you to my heart's content, and give you a smaller underwear size!"

But Mu Guang clearly had no intention of giving Yao Ailun this chance.

In a thrice only Zhang Ziyan was left. Wind God picked up Overlord's spear, and casually threw it.

More than 10 meters away, Heavy Rider was nailed by the breast to the tree.

Complete victory!

The audience of over 40 million was completely silent. They had indeed come to see the goddess, whose charms were infinite. But they had never dreamed of seeing such a player.

How was this possible? Who was this?

Sun Tianxiong, the number one in the Earth zone, had been beaten like a kindergarten kid.

His plays had been amazing. That level of control was god-like.

Small Wisdom activated his mouth. "Who… is this? One of the Aslan's Imperial Guard?"

Prince laughed. "Wrong, he's from Earth, and someone you know. On Earth, only 1 person is capable of this."

Small Wisdom started, and a name came to mind.

That's right. In the Earth zone, and even the wider Solar System CT region, only one person could bring such fire. A presence that had been forgotten for so long!

After a while, the broadcast zone erupted with earth-shaking cheers. They had not seen such a battle for very, very long. Such a standard and ability was blasphemous. Not just in beating the small fry of the Solar System, but it would be equally unstoppable at the Galaxy competitions.

To the innumerable cheers, Lin Huiyin still showed her face to the crowd and thanked them. Instantly, countless mecha cookies were pouring in again. It was about half a year's worth in CT. Today was really something else.

The Goddess' charms clearly had no equal, but the second mystery player had also attracted much attention. Many had no idea who he was, and that era had been long over. Everybody only knew that Sun Tianxiong and the other newcomers.

Ares College had already turned into a bustling atmosphere. Without question, Yao Ailun had become a god among them. The girls were shrieking, and the guys were hooting. It was like a festival.

After expressing her gratitude, Lin Huiyin left. She was only here for the game, but would not really participate in the program. But even this was enough. Besides, Huiyin knew that this stage was prepared for Yao Ailun.

Everyone waited in suspense. The officials were creating the analysis footage, but everyone just wanted to know who the other mystery guest was. Was there such a player in the professional competition?

Impossible. If there was, the Earth team would not have fallen without even making it into the Milky Way Top 10.

"Ailun, now everybody wants to know who that is. Could you tell us? He's the pride and joy of Earth!"

Prince smiled. The crowd also knew that Prince was in the know, otherwise he would not have known that he was from Earth.

The numbers had exploded past 50 million. At the door, more than 100 media bodies' reporters were waiting to interview him. But firstly, the live broadcast had to be finished.

Yao Ailun shrugged and smiled. "It will come out soon enough on the analysis replay. He's been retired for quite a while. From CT, I mean. Those that know him will understand. Old Deer, I know you're watching!"

Yao Ailun looked into the camera and shouted. He knew that the hardest stage of entering the career commentary field had been passed.

The official results were very high. After all, he had accumulated skills over so many years. Wind God had made an impossible prediction of the magnetic influence. This was something that even the user Sun Tianxiong himself could not have known.

At the same time, he had accurately known Jungle Scamper's limits. In that series of movements, within two seconds, Jungle Scamper was completely unable to make a wide-scale shift, and was already dead, which was why he had turned back with confidence.

And as for the magnetic source combining with the lodestone system, it seemed like anybody could do it. But in fact, nobody else could have done it. It had been a miracle, only achievable when one understood strength and mecha control to an advanced level. And such a person would definitely remain within CT.

Many of the audience had started CT after it had enjoyed widespread popularity. They completely could not believe that such a person had once been in Earth zone.

While some of the older players understood.

As Wang Zheng left, the net café had descended into wild celebration, some shouting Skeleton's name loudly. Wang Zheng allowed himself a smile. If he could not make it as a mecha pilot in the future, being a professional player was not bad too. At least there were people who liked him.

Having one's presence acknowledged was a good feeling.

"Huiyin, thank you. When we get back to school, I'll treat you." Wang Zheng said happily.

"Of course. Three meals. Whatever I want to eat, you have to accompany me!" Huiyin hastened to add.

"Sure. No problem, your Highness. Good night, rest well."

"Mm! Today was great."

Wang Zheng shut off the Skylink, and walked the road back alone. Shang Jing's night scenery was beautiful. This was home, and irreplaceable.

At this time, Yao Ailun had been surrounded by countless paparazzi. This was the news of the year!

And those that had missed the match were sighing heavily. Who would have known that 2 such heavy-duty superstars would turn up? It had been a superb display of charms and skills.

Seeing the endless popularity ahead, Yao Ailun suddenly had a realization. So this was work. All he wanted to do was to get drunk with Wang Zheng and Chen Xiu. The rest meant nothing to him.

Chapter 728: Lie Guang's Choice

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Mars, Sage Sect.

Looking at the Lie Flame cauldron, Lie Xin felt a sense of resonance. This feeling came from her bloodline, yet surpassed the bloodline. This feeling was sublime. She was a little shaken. The Sage had personally taken a hand to help her and Lie Guang improve. As she thought of this, she was excited. Once they returned back to Elite College, they would definitely surprise Wang Zheng and the rest.

"Mentor, this…"

"The mother cauldron. The genuine Lie Flame cauldron. It was cast in a collaboration between the Lie family's ancestor during their peak and the Sage himself. Inside, it contains the spiritual brand of the Sage and the Lie ancestors.

At the side, Lie Guang was smiling slightly. Odin was staring at the Lie Flame Cauldron with a grave look. But this matter must be done. "Through this cauldron, you can feel the ancestors' spirits, and improve your blood vessels, and cause the Lie Flame Technique to mutate."

"Mentor, that's an awesome thing. Why didn't you bring it out sooner? Sis, no more questions, I can't wait to get stronger." Lie Guang laughed and joked as per normal.

Lie Xin stared at Lie Guang. "An ancestral object must be treated with reverence."

"Roger that. Mentor, what must we do?" Lie Guang still grinned. His hands were clasped behind his back casually, to hide the fact that they were shaking from Lie Xin.

Lie Xin observed the Lie Flame Cauldron, oblivious to Lie Guang's unusual state.

Odin sighed inwardly. "Let us begin. Lie Xin, you sit at the northwest position. Lie Guang, you sit at the southwest position. Press both palms against the cauldron, listen for my command, and execute the Lie Flame Technique in unison.

Lie Xin and Lie Guang both complied, channeling up the Lie Flame Technique in their palms. At the moment that their palms pressed against the Lie Flame Cauldron…

BOOM! Both of them were shaken violently. Their spirits and wills melded in the Lie Flame Cauldron and resonated.

"Hold no doubts. Trust in each other. Regulate your breathing and move in sync. Now, use the Lie Flame Technique to control your breathing, and feel the brand of the ancestors."

Teacher Odin's voice carefully led them through every detail in the process. At this point, he also joined in!

The shock that Lie Xin felt was hard to describe. Odin's strength was as deep as an ocean. Was this the power of the Sage Technique? This was an ultimate technique every bit as horrifying as the Lie Flame Technique. Before, they had not felt the greatness of the Sage.

At that moment, Odin was guiding the two to adjust their transfer, using the Lie Flame Cauldron as the medium. This was the ultimate control.

BOOM!

Their souls were jolted again.

Lie Xin and Lie Guang both felt the other's presence within the cauldron, and each other's Lie Flame Technique. Under the regulation from the Sage's power, it began to fuse into one. At this time, a stream of energy began to filter down. The vague sounds of battle could be heard.

In the Lie Flame Cauldron's rotation, the 3 of them had formed a circulation. Their combined powers were circulating constantly inside. Each time it passed through the Lie Flame Cauldron, it elevated further.

The purified power first rolled through Lie Guang's body, then flowed into the Lie Flame Cauldron. Under Odin's control, it finally rushed into Lie Xin. All three's arts combined to make it circulate once more within Lie Xin's body. In that instant, Lie Xin's entire body glowed red, almost like she was a fire elemental.

With an adjustment to the pace, the flow completed a loop in Lie Xin's body, then returned to the Lie Flame Cauldron.

This process was repeated over and over again. Lie Guang's natural fire body, Lie Xin's Lie family bloodline, and the Sage's power. In this loop's process, they combined, fused, became one. This power, in the Lie Flame Cauldron, became a fiery dragon. Lie Xin's heart was serene. She could feel her body changing with each pass of the fire dragon through her body. She had faith that this would make her stronger!

Another cycle.

Lie Xin took a deep breath. At that moment, a body of pure energy was within her. It was so perfect and pure. She was just about to return it to the cauldron…

Suddenly! With a loud crackle, the Lie Flame Cauldron extinguished, and the transfer cycle was broken!

"Lie Xin, focus on regulating and manipulating the energy. Press it all into your core's pressure point!"

Lie Xin's eyes flared wide open. She would not!

She was very clear that this energy was not just her own. It also contained all of Lie Guang's energy.

"Sis, collect yourself. I'll be fine after resting a bit. No worries. Don't you be wasting my good intentions." Lie Guang's face was ashen, but smiling wanly.

"Lie Xin, manipulate the Lie Flame Technique with everything you got!" Odin said sternly.

Lie Xin's spirit shivered violently. At this moment, she felt a shock ripple through the ancestors' soul brands within the cauldron, and everything quietened down. The fire dragon felt like it was engulfing her key pressure points. This was completely different. A sublime feeling that could not be imagined. To think that such a thing actually existed in this world!

Odin patted Lie Xin's back lightly. "You must digest all the energy. Be calm!"

As he said this, Odin helped Lie Guang out. What remained was for Lie Xin to breakthrough on her own.

The moment they stepped out, Lie Guang collapsed.

The Lie Flame Cauldron had not taken some of his energy, but all of it.

This energy redirection had taken 3 days and 2 nights…

In the evening, Lie Xin opened her eyes, glowing with fire energy. She had been born anew, but Odin still frowned. It was not enough. Sacrificing Lie Guang had only brought her to this stage. It was still lacking.

Could it be there had been an error in the process?

With this strength, and Lie Guang's complete cooperation, this should not have happened. Could there be some other reason besides gender?

This was already the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that make Lie Xin reborn. It was clearly a complete success, but why were the results so poor?

"Lie Guang?" After waking up from the trance, Lie Xin immediately asked. She had no time to rejoice.

Odin smiled slightly. "Mars needs a perfect leader. As for Lie Guang, no need to worry about him. He's currently resting in the room. His sacrifice was worthy."

Lie Xin was a little taken aback. Her mood changed. "Sacrifice? What sacrifice? Didn't you say that he would recover promptly?"

Odin shook his head irritably. "The Lie Flame Cauldron extracted all of his strength. Lie Xin, this has been prearranged from the start. Lie Guang's only purpose for existence was for this day."

"Sage, others might have done such a thing, but how could you? He's your disciple, and my brother. I don't need this strength!"

Lie Xin raged. Even the Sage was not allowed to do this. Others might not acknowledge Lie Guang, but in Lie Xin's heart, Lie Guang was her kin, her only brother.

Odin had no response. "Go see him."

Lie Xin wanted to say something but hesitated. As the heir to the Lie family, she knew that saying more was useless. For the Lie family's progress, they would do even more ridiculous things. Now, the one she was worried about was Lie Guang. From what the Sage said, Lie Guang was in no mortal danger, he had just lost his powers.

Coming to another courtyard, the air was gloomy, and a little repressive.

"He's here resting. Go on in." Odin said gently.

Lie Xin was in no mood to listen to this. She directly barged in. "Lie Guang!"

Lie Guang! Lie Guang!

Lie Guang?

The room was empty.

Lie Xin's gaze rested on a letter on the tabletop. A sense of foreboding began to grow.

Lie Xin bit her lip. This was no time to be assigning responsibility. She rushed to the table and ripped open the envelope…

"Sister. Please let me continue to call you that. Back then, I came to this home that was not a home. Only one and a half people treated me well. Because of you, I'm happy. Don't blame Mentor. Don't blame anyone else. I was willing. For an orphan to have enjoyed so much for so long, I have already come out ahead. Haha, Sis, you must succeed. I hope to see you lead Mars to stand at the summit of the Milky Way. At that moment, I can proudly tell others 'That is my sister!' I'm leaving now. No need to look for me.

Your brother forever, Lie Guang."

"Mentor, I need a permit! A Mars-wide permit! Find him and bring him back! Quickly! Now! Immediately!" Lie Xin said, her heart breaking into a million pieces.

Odin's expression was serene, but there was a shred of sadness in his eyes.. But at this age, he had seen through and understood many things. Besides, things were not at an end yet.

Lie Guang… was really qualified to be his disciple.

The Sage Sect and Lie Family mobilized all their resources to find a single person. As long as he was still on Mars, then it was impossible that he could not be found.

Whether day or night, every bit of energy was mustered into finding him.

Time ticked on…

There was no sound.

Lie Xin gritted her teeth, waiting anxiously. Lie Guang you bastard, you better not think about committing suicide! As long as there was life, there was hope!

"Sis, when I grow up, I will be your knight and protect you!" the 12 year old Lie Guang declared firmly.

Lie Xin had clubbed Lie Guang down in one fist, and laughed loudly. "Just you? You can't even protect yourself. But your loyalty is commendable. Here, this piece of chocolate, for you."

"Clearly, you're scared of becoming fat after eating chocolate!"

"Watch the fist!"

Lie Guang, who had just crawled up, was beaten down again.

But very quickly, he was back on his feet, uncowed…

The memory blurred, and Lie Xin stood up suddenly. "Lie Guang is a warrior. He would not kill himself… The underground arena! He must have gone there! Search all the dueling houses' data, no matter how big or small. He must be in one of them!"

A minute passed. Two minutes. Just as Lie Xin was about to explode!

"Found him, caught on monitor. He was at New Bridge buying an angel mask. We're looking for his last known position!" Finally, the news had come. The Sage Sect disciples were sweating furiously. It was not hot, and they were not in a hurry. They were afraid. The anger emanating from Lie Xin was like a volcano about to erupt!

Through the transceiver, the follow-up report came: "Mad-Devil Arena. A small underground arena. Black market broadcast…"

"Send people out immediately to receive the signal!" Lie Xin anxiously ordered.

The signal was received. A seedy underground arena. This was the lowest of the low in the black market fights, with life and death as the wager.

"The mysterious angel-mask man! He has beaten the brave from Meng Zhen. He has won 9 consecutive victories, and God himself must be with him. The Goddess of War is beating the drum to his pace, singing the song of his conquers!"

"Let us ask him again: Does he wish to continue?"

On the arena…

Lie Guang gasped heavily. His life force seemed to be evaporating with each exhalation. At that moment, Lie Guang was already covered in scars, and looked inhuman. But the five syringes of military-use ecstasy was still coursing through his system and giving him strength, suppressing his consciousness.