43 The Fourth Test (1)

"This is where one typically tests their soul powers" Sheng Jun explained, sweeping his hand toward the array of platforms adorned with large crystal balls. The scene stood out amidst the modest buildings that surrounded them, each platform lined by a queue of eager participants. Tang San, Xiao Wu, and Ning Rongrong listened intently as Sheng Jun briefed them on the nature of the second test before continuing.

"It's not strictly necessary for you and Xiao Wu," Sheng Jun began, as he addressed Tang San and Xiao Wu directly, "as your soul power exceeds level 25, qualifying you to proceed directly to the fourth test"

He paused briefly, allowing his words to sink in before continuing, "However, to avoid any unnecessary objections or doubts from those who must undergo all the tests, I still recommend you complete this test as usual"

As Sheng Jun concluded his explanation, Dai Mubai approached with a dejected expression, his shoulders slumped with disappointment. Trailing behind him was a girl who exuded an aura of aloofness, her presence commanding attention as she walked with measured steps. She possessed long, flowing black hair that cascaded over her shoulders like a waterfall.

Her figure, too, belied her age, with curves that seemed out of place on someone so young, particularly the imposing bosom that drew the eyes of onlookers.

Her demeanor was one of indifference, her expression unreadable as she regarded the world with piercing black eyes.

Introducing her, Dai Mubai said, "This…is Zhu Zhuqing" Upon hearing the name Zhu, Sheng Jun's expression betrayed a hint of recognition, silently acknowledging that she must be Dai Mubai's little fiancée. With a warm smile, he proceeded to introduce himself, along with everyone else present, before explaining the second test once more.

After a while, their turn finally arrived, and Tang San, Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing stepped forward to test their soul powers. The crystal balls glowed with ethereal light as it finally gave its verdict.

As expected, Tang San and Xiao Wu's soul powers measured an impressive 29 each. However, what truly surprised him was the revelation that both Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing's soul powers exceeded level 25, with Ning Rongrong measuring at 26 and Zhu Zhuqing at 27, gathering a surprised gasp from the onlookers around them.

With a satisfied nod, Sheng Jun then led them toward a large arena building, where they would face the next test.

Upon entering, Sheng Jun began to explain the fourth test with a calm and authoritative tone. "The fourth test is designed to assess your combat skills and experience" he elaborated, "You can choose to fight in a team against Dai Mubai, a Level 39 or Bai Chenxiang, a Level 37. Alternatively, you can choose to face Ma Hongjun and Oscar, both Level 29 respectively. The choice is yours"

He paused briefly, allowing the options to sink in before continuing, "I will provide details about their abilities once you have selected your opponents"

Hearing Sheng Jun's words, a wave of shock rippled through the group. Zhu Zhuqing, in particular, displayed a subtle tremor in her eyes upon learning Dai Mubai's soul power level, though only Sheng Jun caught this fleeting reaction amidst the group's collective surprise.

As they absorbed the information, a curious voice broke the momentary silence. "What about you, Sheng Jun? Can't we choose to fight you?" Ning Rongrong's question hung in the air, a hint of curiosity lacing her words as she voiced the inquiry that was on her mind.

Hearing Ning Rongrong's question, Sheng Jun's smile took on a slightly awkward tinge. Tang San and Xiao Wu tensed up at the mention of potentially facing Sheng Jun in battle, memories of their academy days still fresh in their minds.

Meanwhile, Dai Mubai, Oscar, Ma Hongjun, and Bai Chenxiang couldn't help but chuckle at Ning Rongrong's straightforward inquiry, their amusement evident in their reactions.

Caught off guard by the question, Sheng Jun found himself at a loss for words, scratching his cheek awkwardly as he searched for a response. Sensing his uncertainty, Dai Mubai stepped in to offer an explanation, his tone laced with humor. "Ning Rongrong, it's probably best to choose someone else. If you pick me, at least you'll stand a fighting chance. But if you choose him…" Dai Mubai's voice trailed off, leaving the implication hanging in the air as he exchanged knowing glances with the others.

Surprised by Dai Mubai's explanation, Ning Rongrong's astonishment only grew. "Is his soul power higher than yours?! Don't tell me he's a Spirit Ancestor?" she exclaimed in shock, her eyes widening at the possibility.

Dai Mubai shook his head, preparing to clarify the situation. "Well, not exactly" he began, "Sheng Jun's soul power is only Level 35, but according to Dean Flender and all the teachers in the school, he is invincible unless the difference is over two spirit rings"

He paused briefly, allowing the significance of his words to sink in before continuing. "This is due to his Second Spirit Ring Skill, 'Sacrifice' being a bit…vicious. Before he got his Third Spirit Ring Skill, 'Healing,' which is a traditional Healing System skill, his Second Spirit Ring Skill wasn't that big of a deal as it was a double-edged sword"

Dai Mubai's expression grew solemn as he elaborated on the complexities of Sheng Jun's abilities. "But now, with his Third Spirit Ring Skill, he can heal himself from any damage he or others had caused to him, making it impossible to defeat him unless you are much higher level than him, thus lessening the effect of his Second Spirit Ring Skill. Of course, you can technically beat him if you want to throw your life away while doing so" he finished, his voice tinged with resignation as he concluded his explanation.

Ning Rongrong's confusion deepened as she processed Dai Mubai's explanation. "Vicious skill? Healing skill? He's an Auxiliary System Spirit Master?" she exclaimed, her brow furrowing in perplexity. After all, isn't it just an Auxiliary System Spirit Master?

At that moment, Tang San's voice cut through the air, declaring his choice, "Xiao Wu and I will fight Dai Mubai" he stated.

The announcement caused Ma Hongjun, who was about to step forward, to freeze in his place, his expression darkening with a mixture of surprise and frustration. He shot a glare towards Tang San, his eyes flashing with an intensity. Tang San, in turn, avoided his gaze.

Ma Hongjun's Martial Soul posed a significant challenge for Tang San's Blue Silver Grass, as the bane of his Martial Soul, rendering his usual tactics useless in combat. Moreover, with the possibility of Ma Hongjun having acquired an Attack Type Spirit Skill, the threat he posed was even greater. Add to that the prospect of Ma Hongjun getting help from Oscar, the odds seemed stacked against Tang San and Xiao Wu.

…

As for Bai Chenxiang, Tang San couldn't ignore the chilling aura emanating from her. Her presence seemed to exude an icy coldness that sent shivers down his spine, hinting at the formidable power of her Martial Soul, likely related to the ice element that posed yet another challenge for him.

Considering the circumstances, Tang San weighed his choices carefully. Facing Dai Mubai, whom he assessed to be an Attack Power System, appeared to be the safest option. As a Control System Spirit Master, Tang San believed he held a strategic advantage in such a matchup, especially with Xiao Wu by his side to provide additional support.

As Tang San and Xiao Wu made their decision, Ning Rongrong could only reluctantly follow suit, opting to face Dai Mubai as well. As an Auxiliary System Spirit Master, her abilities were better suited for support rather than fighting alone. Similarly, Zhu Zhuqing nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and a hint of unresolved resentment as she directed her gaze towards Dai Mubai.

Observing their choices, Sheng Jun began to explain the conditions of the fourth test. "You can pass the test by either defeating Dai Mubai or surviving for 1 hour" he elaborated, emphasizing that exceptional performances could also warrant passing without meeting these conditions. With that, he proceeded to introduce Dai Mubai in detail.

"I will only explain this once, so listen carefully," Sheng Jun began, demanding their full attention. "Dai Mubai, Level 39, 3rd Ring Attack Power System Spirit Elder, Martial Soul: White Tiger"

With unwavering focus, Tang San, Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Zhu Zhuqing leaned in, ready to absorb every detail.

"First Spirit Ring Skill: White Tiger Shield Body Barrier" Sheng Jun continued. "With it he is able to block and absorb part of the damage caused to him before releasing it all in one hit, so try to evade it if possible"

"Second Spirit Ring Skill: White Tiger Intense Light Wave" he proceeded, emphasizing the importance of vigilance. "With this he is able to unleash intense light from his mouth, try not to let him charge it up"

"Third Spirit Ring Skill: White Tiger Asura Transformation" Sheng Jun concluded, "It increases his Strength, Attack, Defense, and Stamina by 100% while making him immune to pain, complementing his First Spirit Ring Skill".

He concluded with a piece of advice, his tone is that of amusement with a hint of seriousness "Oh, and I recommend you try to finish the fight as soon as possible. The longer you keep fighting, the fewer chances you have of winning" With a knowing grin, he added, "I'll give you guys some time to introduce yourselves and discuss strategies"

With that, Sheng Jun walked towards Oscar. They had a good show to witness, having some sausages to enjoy while they watched would be awesome.