3 Shi Tao's Defeat
His fist suddenly swelled strangely, displaying a rock-like texture, filled with destructive power, and he struck at Qin Xingyu's chest with a palm.
Instructor Jiang Chao watched the unmatched power of the strike and couldn't help but sigh. "It seems that Qin Xingyu is about to lose. Shi Tao's combat power is at least 9,000; he's already at the threshold of a Grand Martial Artist."
Qin Xingyu's face instantly turned pale, and he hurriedly raised his left arm to block. However, his left arm was instantly overwhelmed, and a palm landed on his chest. Although his left arm had absorbed some of the force, he was still sent flying, and blood spurted from his mouth.
The scene fell into complete silence, and you could hear a pin drop.
"Medics, quickly, check Qin Xingyu's condition."
Two medics finally snapped out of their daze and rushed over with a first aid kit.
They cleaned Qin Xingyu's wounds and applied medicine.
...
"Wow! He's too powerful. This must be the strength of a Grand Martial Artist, right?"
"Most likely. This is bad; even Qin Xingyu, the strongest among us, was defeated so miserably. The others who step up will just be offering themselves."
"But according to tradition, there are usually three rounds in practical combat classes. I wonder if there are any brave souls willing to step up?"
"I'd gladly go up and get beaten! The gap in strength is too big; I'm just afraid that Shi Tao will call my name!"
Many students looked at Qin Xingyu's pitiful outcome and then turned their gazes to Shi Tao with admiration and fear.
Shi Tao didn't hold back, and even a strike from him would probably leave a novice martial artist or intermediate martial artist bedridden for days. They might not even be able to participate in the trial.
Everyone was worried about being called next.
Luo Hua, still shaken, turned to Chu Feng and said, "Shi Tao's last punch was incredibly powerful. His combat power must be well over that of a high-level martial artist. If it were me up there, I'd be knocked out too. What do you think?"
Chu Feng responded indifferently, "It's alright, just like that."
The martial artist rankings were no longer within his consideration, and even Shi Tao's palm techniques showed several flaws. However, Shi Tao's agility was still good.
But his casual reply immediately stirred up a hornet's nest.
All the other martial artists were heaping praise and awe on Shi Tao, but Chu Feng's nonchalant tone sounded indifferent and dismissive.
It was extremely awkward!
Martial artists had extremely keen hearing, and Chu Feng's response immediately drew attention.
"It's... it's alright?" Luo Hua exaggeratedly looked at Chu Feng.
Then he noticed the martial artists around them, all looking at Chu Feng with strange expressions. Even Shi Tao's gaze shifted towards Chu Feng, his eyes filled with coldness and a hint of malicious intent.
Luo Hua's face turned pale, and he urgently tugged at Chu Feng's pants, trying to get his attention.
But it was too late!
"Isn't that Chu Feng? When did he become so arrogant? He's not even a martial artist, is he? He acts like he's a martial master. Tsk tsk..."
"He loves to show off. Let's see if he dares to go up in the next round. I bet he'd wet his pants before even stepping on the platform!"
The surrounding students stared at him as if he were an idiot, and their tone was mocking.
Indeed! Even the strongest Qin Xingyu had been soundly defeated. A weakling who wasn't even a martial artist, pretending to be tough—it was laughable.
Chu Feng remained unruffled, as if everything around him had nothing to do with him and didn't require any explanation.
"Explain? What's there to explain? Saying that I'm an intermediate martial artist, I'd probably get laughed at even more!" he thought to himself.
"Why should I explain myself to them? I live my life as I see fit."
However, Chu Feng's expression became the last straw that triggered Shi Tao's explosive anger.
He couldn't even wait for Instructor Jiang Chao to announce the outcome of the practical combat or for Jiang Chao to provide comments on the match. Shi Tao erupted in that instant.
"This classmate must have exceptional combat power. Come, let's have a match," Shi Tao pointed at Chu Feng with a cruel look in his eyes.
"Gah, Chu Feng is done for. Let's see if he dares to accept the challenge," someone said.
"If he accepts, it will probably take him half a month; if he refuses, his reputation will be ruined," another added.
People looked at Chu Feng with schadenfreude in their eyes.
"Are you talking about me?" Chu Feng replied nonchalantly.
"Yes, you!"
"Are you sure you want to challenge me? However, I always like to add a little something to my battles. How about a wager? Let's make Instructor Jiang Chao a witness."
Chu Feng provocatively said.
When Chu Feng was called up, he had already decided that if he was going to fight, he might as well gain some benefits from it. The upcoming trial was uncertain; he might not secure the first place. If his Blood Qi value increased to over 5, it would be more stable.
"Challenge? He's gone mad! Has Chu Feng lost his mind?" people whispered.
"His words are really audacious! Even titanium battleships aren't as sturdy as his words. I'm impressed!"
"Let's call him 'Giant' from now on! He's definitely a giant in terms of language."
"A wager? Can he even think of such a lame excuse? Is he trying to propose an incredibly huge bet to scare Shi Tao?"
"Heh! Is Shi Tao afraid of him?"
Chu Feng's words caused a stir!
Everyone looked at Chu Feng as if he were a fool, and they mocked him mercilessly.
"Tooth-sharp and mouth-tough! What's he gambling on? I, Shi Tao, am willing to go all the way," Shi Tao clenched his fists and said through gritted teeth.
He was also concerned that Chu Feng might come up with some unimaginable stakes.
"Not much! Let's bet on a Cleansing Marrow Pill. I don't have one, but I'll put in 300,000. Are you up for it?"
The Cleansing Marrow Pill was said to be a spiritual medicine that elite members of the Martial Association Training Camp could obtain, provided they completed training tasks and earned points. They could receive one per month, and its value was slightly over 200,000. Strictly speaking, Shi Tao was getting the better end of the deal.
"Alright, I won't take advantage of you. I'll add a First-Rank Monster Beast Heart Blood, worth over 400,000. You don't need to increase the bet any further," Shi Tao generously agreed. He directly placed the two items in front of Instructor Jiang Chao.
He was genuinely afraid that Chu Feng might come up with an unbelievable high-stakes bet, and if that happened, Instructor Jiang Chao might use it as an excuse to stop the match.
"Luo Hua, didn't you promise to lend me money? Come on, lend me 300,000!" Chu Feng poked Luo Hua, who was hanging his head.
"What?" Everyone, including Instructor Jiang Chao, was dumbfounded.
Wow!
Wow!
"Gah! No money of his own, openly borrowing money for a gamble... he's completely gone mad!"
"Damn! Damn! I'm impressed, all hail Chu Feng! When it comes to showing off, I only bow to Chu Feng!"
"What kind of crazy stunt is this? I think I'm having a stroke!"
"If he loses, he'll lose both money and reputation! Hehe, let's watch the show!"
Luo Hua wished he could find a hole to hide in. He didn't actually take out any money and just tugged at Chu Feng, signaling him not to go through with it.
"Quick, don't dawdle!" Chu Feng urged.
He acted as if he had no idea what embarrassment was.
"As long as I'm not embarrassed, everything else is your problem."
Luo Hua's face turned crimson. Under the scrutinizing gaze of many, he tremblingly took out a card from his pocket and whispered, "There's 310,000 in it, with the password 111111."
His father was only an intermediate martial artist, and this was all the savings he had.
Chu Feng took the card, walked over to Instructor Jiang Chao, placed the card on the table, and then stood opposite Shi Tao.
The stakes were set, and Instructor Jiang Chao could do nothing to stop it. He had people assess the value of both sides and nodded in agreement.
Chu Feng stood with his hands behind his back, exuding an air of a seasoned expert. "Show me what you've got," he said casually.
Shi Tao was already burning with anger, and now he was even more furious. He roared, "Die!"
He charged towards Chu Feng like a thunderbolt, unleashing his ultimate technique, the Thunderous Leg.
He raised his right leg into the air, performed a spinning side kick, and with the power of a dragon's tail, he struck with tremendous force, heading straight for Chu Feng. His attack created a whirlwind of air and carried a distinct thunderous roar.
"Breaking the Sound Barrier with a Leg!" Everyone was left speechless. This was the limit of a Great Martial Artist, the threshold of a Martial Master. The most important sign of a Martial Master was the ability to break the sound barrier with their attacks, resulting in immense power.
"Oh my God! Shi Tao actually held back earlier?"
"This leg technique is not simple. It's probably reached the level of a Profound-Rank skill."
"He's too strong. Chu Feng kept provoking him, and he's probably going to get beaten badly, maybe even injured."
The attack was so fierce that it created a violent gust of wind, and even students who were close by felt a stinging sensation on their faces.
"It's over!" Luo Hua sighed, no longer able to watch.
Even Instructor Jiang Chao's expression had become serious. He was prepared to intervene and separate the two if necessary to prevent Chu Feng from getting seriously injured.
Chu Feng, on the other hand, seemed oblivious to the power of that leg. He calmly blocked the attack with his left arm.
The attack, as formidable as it was, felt like it struck a solid wall when it hit Chu Feng's arm, creating no ripples or disturbances.
Shi Tao's pupils instantly contracted. Even with his combat power of 10,000, he couldn't budge the opponent's arm.
"A master! He's undoubtedly a true Martial Master!"
Shi Tao felt a chill run down his spine. He hadn't expected to encounter someone who was "acting like a pig to eat a tiger."
"What? He actually blocked it?"
"Wow, what's going on? Did I hallucinate?"
"He's gone mad! I think I'm going crazy!"
"Wow, could it be that Chu Feng is a hidden master?" Some observant individuals began to sense that something was amiss.
Even Instructor Jiang Chao was momentarily stunned, then his eyes sparkled brightly. "I didn't expect that there would be a Martial Master in Class Five!"
Chu Feng acted as if he didn't understand what everyone was thinking. In the blink of an eye, he swung his right fist like a thunderbolt, as swift as a dragon's claw, creating a surging wave of Qi, and smashed it towards Shi Tao.
"I have one punch, and it will conquer all!"
This was the Ten Extremes Fist, and Chu Feng had only executed the third punch, yet his combat power had already reached 16,000. If it were the final punch, he might have instantly defeated Shi Tao.
Even with the third punch, it was a devastating blow that shook everyone's minds.
"No!"
Shi Tao roared and hastily raised his right fist in an attempt to block the attack.
But could he really block it? Chu Feng's punch sent his fist flying and imprinted itself on his chest.
"Boom!"
Shi Tao was sent flying through the air and crashed heavily onto the ground five meters away.
"Cough..."
He coughed up a mouthful of blood and quickly took out a healing pill, which he swallowed. Then, he slumped to the ground.
The entire arena fell silent. Everyone stared in shock and disbelief.
"Gulung!"
The sound of someone swallowing hard was heard abruptly in the training ground.
"How is this possible?" Someone muttered in a daze.
"Oh my God! Chu Feng actually won!"
Chu Feng had defeated Shi Tao, and the entire crowd was in shock.
After a moment, someone shouted loudly, "Yes! He won!"
"Damn, Chu Feng won! Even the elite students couldn't beat him!"
"Amazing, he's incredible! Chu Feng is actually a Martial Master."
"Shh, watch your words. Chu Feng is now a young Martial Master. From now on, we have to call him 'Master Chu Feng!'"
"I can't believe it. Chu Feng wasn't pretending earlier; I was just too blind!"
"Master Chu Feng, I'm sorry. I apologize to you!"
The students from Class Five immediately erupted into cheers and celebrations. They were all talking excitedly, saying all sorts of things.
"Master?" Chu Feng smiled wryly. In his two lifetimes, no one had ever called him that.
But with his current status as a middle-tier Martial Master, he couldn't afford to lose to top-tier warriors. Otherwise, he would despise himself.
Chu Feng remained nonchalant, but the students below him felt an immense sense of mystery and admiration for him.
The adoration they felt was fervent and intense.
"Um, Senior Shi, I won, right? So, I'll be taking the rewards now," Chu Feng said, rubbing his hands together and looking somewhat shy as he addressed Shi Tao.
"You…" Shi Tao was so angry that he tilted his head and immediately pretended to faint.
Actually, he was just acting.
Chu Feng, however, didn't care whether Shi Tao was really unconscious or faking it.
"Booty must be claimed!" Chu Feng declared boldly.
He took the two vials of medicine and examined them briefly. Placing them in front of him, he sniffed them and felt refreshed, dispelling his fatigue.
"These are excellent!" Unfortunately, the Wash Marrow Pill and the Beast Blood Medicine were too potent and not suitable for foundation building. Otherwise, he would have given them to his sister to assist in her foundation building.
Chu Feng carefully stored the two sets of spiritual medicines and prepared to return the card to Luo Hua.
He turned his head to look at Instructor Jiang, who had been on the phone since the end of the match, without even announcing the results. Chu Feng had no choice but to take the rewards himself.
Chu Feng quickly descended the stage and handed the card to Luo Hua. "Here's your card, buddy. Thanks!"
Luo Hua received the bank card, still feeling somewhat dazed, and looked at Chu Feng with unfamiliar eyes. It was as if he was meeting his best friend for the first time, but with a strange sense of awe.
"Let's have dinner together tonight!" Chu Feng said nonchalantly and patted Luo Hua's shoulder.
The surrounding students quickly surrounded Chu Feng.
"Master Chu, can we join you for dinner tonight?" one of Chu Feng's friends, who had a good relationship with him, boldly asked.
"Yeah, count us in!" The other students' eyes lit up, and they chimed in.
"Sure! Everyone's invited!" Chu Feng smiled and agreed.
The crowd erupted in cheers, and their expressions were like fans meeting their idol. They were practically glowing with admiration.
"Master Chu, have you reached Martial Master level with your combat power?"
"Master Chu, how did you cultivate?"
"Master Chu, can I join you for the trial?"
"Master Chu, do you have a girlfriend?"
Many strange and curious questions were thrown at Chu Feng, leaving him both amused and bewildered.
"Quiet! You all witnessed today's two real battles, right? Were they brutal? But the trial with the beasts is even more dangerous. All those who want to participate in the trial can go to the Trial Office to register, but you must sign a death waiver."
"Today's practical class ends here! Chu Feng, please stay. The rest of you can disperse!" Instructor Jiang Chao announced hurriedly. He didn't even provide feedback on the two battles; he was busy on the phone.
As the excited discussions of the students gradually faded away, Chu Feng's name was sure to become famous throughout the school. It was a case of going from being relatively unknown to suddenly gaining widespread recognition.
Soon, on the empty training ground, only Chu Feng and Instructor Jiang Chao remained.
Instructor Jiang Chao stared at Chu Feng with fervent eyes, as if he had discovered a priceless treasure. His burning gaze made Chu Feng uncomfortable.
"Instructor Jiang, is there something you want to discuss with me?" Chu Feng asked calmly, not quite accustomed to the intense scrutiny.
Instructor Jiang's eyes flickered, and he said solemnly, "I have already reported your situation to the principal. The principal wants to see you."
Chu Feng raised an eyebrow, realizing that he had inadvertently revealed his considerable strength. He didn't expect the principal to be informed so quickly.
The principal of Qingzhou Experimental High School, Jiang Tian, was a formidable figure. He had achieved the level of a Grandmaster, and Grandmasters were practically divine beings, with their inner energy manifesting as powerful astral forces. They could attack from a distance and perform incredible feats.
Every Grandmaster was a legend in their own right. Being a Grandmaster was an honor that could not be tarnished.
However, Chu Feng remained unperturbed. With his current status as a middle-tier Martial Master and his exceptional talent, he was on the cusp of reaching the level of a Grandmaster himself.
It was worth noting that many students were quite nervous when meeting a Grandmaster individually.
Chu Feng's calm demeanor surprised Instructor Jiang Chao, who was curious about his reaction.
"By the way, before you meet the principal, I need to confirm something with you. Are you a Talent Warrior?" Although Jiang Chao had a hunch, he asked cautiously.
A Talent Warrior was a warrior who had awakened his talent.
"A Talent Warrior?" Chu Feng thought for a moment, his lips curling into a playful smile. He had indeed awakened his talent quite suddenly. "Yes, I awakened my talent about a month ago by breaking through to the Warrior Realm using Blood Qi Scattering. After a month of arduous training, I achieved my current level of strength."
Chu Feng answered with a seemingly honest expression, but he had changed the date to keep the conversation consistent with the altered timeline. Aside from hiding the existence of the system, he was telling the truth.
Jiang Chao nodded and continued, "During the previous collective test, you were not a warrior, but now your combat power has surged, making you a Martial Master. It can only be attributed to an awakened talent."
"Is your awakened talent a Comprehensive Talent or an Elemental Talent?" Jiang Chao asked with an eager gleam in his eyes.
Chu Feng, however, was taken aback by the terms Comprehensive Talent and Elemental Talent. He had never heard of these distinctions before and was genuinely curious.
"Comprehensive Talent or Elemental Talent? What do those terms mean?" Chu Feng had been somewhat of a novice before, so he decided to seize this opportunity to gain some knowledge.
Jiang Chao wore a knowing smile but concealed a hint of regret. He thought to himself, "What are you thinking? Elemental Talents don't awaken so easily, and the fact that Chu Feng has awakened any talent is a blessing from the heavens."
Jiang Chao chuckled and began to explain, "Comprehensive Talent Warriors possess various talents, such as rapid comprehension, awakened ancient bloodlines, or innate divine strength. They are collectively referred to as Comprehensive Talent Warriors."
"In contrast, Elemental Talent Warriors have a natural affinity for a specific elemental attribute, such as gold, wood, water, fire, earth, or even space. They excel in controlling that element, and it makes their early-stage cultivation on par with Comprehensive Talent Warriors. However, in the long run, they have the potential to reach even greater heights and become true masters."
"Besides Elemental Talent and Comprehensive Talent Warriors, there's a special type known as Psychic Warriors. They possess incredibly strong spiritual power and can control various powerful treasures to attack their enemies from a distance. Their combat style is quite unique, and legends speak of Psychic Warriors who could control flying swords from miles away and decapitate their enemies, just like in myths."
Chu Feng listened intently and absorbed this newfound knowledge. He hadn't known about these distinctions before, and he found it fascinating.
"Interesting," Chu Feng remarked with a smile.
Listening, Chu Feng felt dizzy and mesmerized.
In addition to being shocked, his heart was filled with yearning.
Killing from a thousand miles away, what an incredible skill? It's beyond imagination.
Jiang Chao, as the mentor, also had a fiery look in his eyes.
After a while, he continued, "Regardless of the type of talented martial artist, they are like dragons and phoenixes among people. In my lifetime, I've only encountered five talented martial artists, including you."
"You must work hard and not disgrace the reputation of talented martial artists," Jiang Chao said with a gentle pat on Chu Feng's shoulder, emphasizing his words.
Chu Feng nodded heavily and curiously asked, "What martial realms did those four talented martial artists eventually reach?"
"Those four talented martial artists included three comprehensive talented martial artists and one elemental talented martial artist. Two of the comprehensive talented martial artists, who were originally shining brightly, unfortunately fell midway and passed away prematurely," Jiang Chao said with a tinge of regret in his expression.
Then, a different light appeared in his eyes as he continued, "The remaining comprehensive talented martial artist is named Xiao Daoning. He broke through to the Grandmaster realm at the age of thirty and reached the legendary General realm. His combat power is earth-shattering and can suppress an entire region. He is honored with the title 'Golden Sword General' and currently serves as the city lord of Qingzhou."
He raised his finger and pointed to the sky.
Chu Feng realized that the realm beyond Grandmaster was called General.
He had only known about the realm beyond Master, but he didn't know what it was.
Jiang Chao continued, "As for the elemental talented martial artist, his name is Jiang Li. He is an absolute genius, and rumors have it that his realm surpasses that of a General, but I don't know the exact details. After he left Qingzhou, he never returned and is said to be battling in a mysterious battlefield."
Chu Feng took a sharp breath.
"General realm above Grandmaster!"
Chu Feng tightly clenched his fists. Although elemental talented martial artists were powerful, how could they compare to his invincible system?
Even if their talent was a thousand times greater?
What about a million times?
Ten million times?
...
A talent that could grow infinitely was the true invincibility.
Chu Feng's eyes were filled with confidence, and his gaze was terrifyingly bright.
The two of them walked through a long corridor and finally entered the office of Principal Jiang Tian.
Seated in the central position was a man in a black robe. His hair was a mix of black and white, and he exuded a terrifying aura. Although he wore a smile on his face and appeared amiable, he still possessed an intimidating presence.
His gaze was sharp, as if it could penetrate one's heart.
"So terrifying! Fortunately, the system is intangible and unaware. No one can discover it," Chu Feng thought, feeling as though he stood exposed, with no secrets hidden, in front of this man.
The principal quickly withdrew his gaze.
Jiang Chao hurriedly stepped forward to introduce, "Principal, this is Chu Feng, the student who awakened his martial arts talent."
Chu Feng respectfully greeted, "Chu Feng greets Principal Jiang."
The principal nodded slightly and showed appreciation. "Little Chu, I heard that you have already reached the level of a martial master. Well done! Now, the testing device opposite you will measure your strongest combat power. If you perform well, there will be rewards."
Although Principal Jiang had heard Jiang Chao's report, the matter of talented martial artists was of great importance, so he decided to personally verify it.
He leisurely picked up his tea cup, his smile warm as he observed Chu Feng's upcoming performance.
"The principal's reward shouldn't be too bad, right?"
Turning to look at the combat power testing device, Chu Feng contemplated silently.
"It's clearly a test for me! In that case, let me surprise you a bit!"
Chu Feng's fighting spirit instantly surged. He followed the route of the Ten Extremes Fist, mobilizing his profound elemental power.
His body suddenly rushed forward, and a punch shot out like a cannonball, lightning-fast.
Directly unleashing the tenth punch, "Ten Extremes Suppress Yin and Yang!"
Accompanied by the sounds of dragons and tigers, his punch speed broke through the sound barrier, creating an endless and violent shockwave that instantly struck the testing device.
"Crackling..."
The numbers on the screen began to jump wildly.
In an instant, it surpassed twenty thousand... thirty thousand... forty thousand...
Finally, it settled at 48,296.
Chu Feng's body was still growing, and with a trace of residual power, his combat power continued to increase.
"Crack!"
The porcelain teacup that the principal had been holding to drink tea was crushed into powder under his shock.
Although tea and powdered fragments mixed together and dripped down, the Grandmaster principal remained unaware.
The principal's face was filled with astonishment, his hair standing on end. He stood up in disbelief, muttering, "48,296, nearly fifty thousand combat power, how is this possible?"
Jiang Chao, the mentor, was also thunderstruck, as if a thunderbolt had struck him on the head. His expression was extremely vivid.
After Jiang Chao reported to the principal over the phone, they roughly estimated that Chu Feng's combat power should be a little over ten thousand.
But they didn't expect that it was only a portion of Chu Feng's displayed combat power.
The mentor's face turned pale at this moment, and his own combat power was just a little over fifty thousand.
Now, Chu Feng's combat power was about to surpass his own.
"It's so terrifying, too scary! I'm afraid I won't live long after these decades," he thought in terror.
The office fell into a sudden and deathly silence.
After a long while, the principal suddenly burst into hearty laughter. "Hahaha, good, very good!"
An accomplished martial artist, who should usually hide their emotions well, was now excited beyond concealment.
"With such combat power, I'm afraid our Experimental Middle School will shine in this trial," the principal said with great enthusiasm.
"Teacher Jiang, what kind of scholarship does an outstanding student like Chu Feng receive?" Principal Jiang asked with a smile.
"Scholarship? Ah... because Chu Feng awakened his martial arts talent recently, we haven't had a chance to arrange a scholarship for him yet," Jiang Chao said awkwardly, scratching his head.
Before, Chu Feng hadn't even reached the level of a martial artist, so he was considered average in his class. How could he have received a scholarship?
"You're confused! A talent like this must receive a special first-class scholarship. Immediately inform the finance department to transfer a three-year special first-class scholarship to Chu Feng's account," the principal ordered firmly.
A special first-class scholarship was worth twenty thousand per year.
So, for three years, it amounted to sixty thousand.
Chu Feng's mouth hung open in shock, and he was overjoyed in his heart.
The principal was truly a great person!
"Three years?" Jiang Chao asked in disbelief.
It was reasonable to grant a special first-class scholarship for the current year, but there was no reason to compensate for the previous two years.
"It's three years. Anyone who questions it can say that I decided it. Go and do it now!"
The principal's tone was filled with unquestionable authority.
"Yes!" Jiang Chao quickly left and then hurriedly walked out.
"Little Chu, if you can secure the first place in this trial, the school will reward you an additional one million. Personally, I'll reward you five portions of second-grade monster heart blood," Jiang Zongshi said with a smile.
Chu Feng was greatly shaken.
One million! And five portions of second-grade monster heart blood, each worth more than a million.
"Prosperous!"
Chu Feng appeared very obedient at this moment. "I will definitely work hard and not let the principal down."
The Grandmaster pondered for a moment, as if he remembered something, and asked, "By the way, you haven't gone to the Martialist Association to take the Martial Master badge test yet, have you?"
"Not yet, I plan to go to the Martialist Association for the test after school!"
Originally, Chu Feng and his sister had agreed that after school, they would take the test for the badge at the Martialist Association and use the first month's allowance to buy Blood Qi Elixir.
"You haven't taken the test? Then I suggest you don't go for the test right away. If you perform too brilliantly in the Martialist Association test, it will surely attract a lot of attention. The trial with the monsters will certainly be treated with special attention, which may not be conducive to your achieving a good result."
"Although you have performed well in practical combat classes in our school, most people outside don't know about it yet. Even if some people hear about it, they probably won't take it seriously, just treat it as a joke."
"And if you keep a low profile and make a fortune quietly, when the trial is over and you take the Martialist Association test, it will be the same."
Indeed, experience makes the master!
Although Chu Feng wasn't afraid of anyone his age, if someone targeted him with a purpose and set up traps, it would not be conducive to his achieving first place.
It's better to "act like a pig to eat a tiger."
Chu Feng fully agreed and said respectfully, "Your consideration is well thought out. I plan to go for the Martialist Association test after the trial."
Principal Jiang Tian nodded in satisfaction, appearing like a wise teacher guiding his student.
"Little Chu, do you have any other requests?"
Chu Feng thought for a moment, and with a shy and timid expression, he said, "Today, during the practical combat, I realized that my footwork is a weak point. If the school could grant me a footwork martial art, it would certainly increase my chances of winning the trial. The second request is that the school's curriculum can no longer meet my cultivation needs. Can I be given a more relaxed environment?"
In the practical combat class, Chu Feng keenly realized that although his combat power far surpassed Shi Tao, his footwork was far inferior.
If it wasn't for Shi Tao's confidence that he could overpower Chu Feng and his desperate desire for victory, and instead, he used footwork to engage with Chu Feng, winning would probably not be that easy for Chu Feng.
"The second one is easy. Your strength has exceeded the current courses, and except for important school arrangements, you can manage your time on your own," the principal said with a firm tone.
"As for the footwork martial art, the school only has a few yellow-grade martial arts, which may not meet your requirements..."
The principal sighed, "Oh well, I have a ground-grade martial art called 'Golden Roc Breaks the Void.' You can take it back and practice with it! Return it to me after you've memorized its content. But remember not to show it to others or disclose any information about it, or it might cause trouble."
Chu Feng could hardly believe his ears.
A ground-grade martial art, which was worth tens of millions or even more, was considered an absolute treasure no matter where it was found.
"How could it be shown so easily?"
Even if he only learned it once, it was probably worth a million or even several million.
While Chu Feng marveled at the principal's generosity, he also felt a warm current surging in his heart.
Principal Jiang took the initiative to open a golden safe nearby, took out an ancient scroll with a sense of age, looked at it repeatedly, and reluctantly handed it to Chu Feng.
Chu Feng took the ancient scroll with both hands and said solemnly, "Thank you for your mentorship. I will learn the contents of this ancient scroll as soon as possible and then return it intact."
Chu Feng felt quite excited in his heart after receiving the Golden Peng Breaking Void, a high-quality martial technique. It could be said that it filled in his shortcomings. With astonishing combat power and exquisite body technique, he had absolute confidence in securing the first place in the trial.
The principal waved his hand, encouraging him with deep sincerity, "Work hard. I'm waiting for you to bring back the championship. Oh, by the way, here is the key to the Ninth Practice Room. I rarely use it myself, so feel free to borrow it!"
The practice room was exactly what he needed. With his current strength, ordinary houses couldn't withstand his full power. A single blow would bring down the entire structure.
He had initially planned to rent a training hall at the Shura Martial Arts Hall, but unexpectedly, the principal had already thought of this.
"Young man, strive well. Bring back the championship and bring glory to our school," Chu Feng solemnly promised, bowing to the principal.
The principal nodded slightly.
Seeing that Master Jiang had nothing more to say, he turned and left the principal's office.
...
In a moment, the spacious office quieted down again.
The principal stared at Chu Feng's disappearing figure, lost in thought, and murmured softly, "In just one month, from martial apprentice to a strength approaching fifty thousand. Even among talented warriors, he's probably outstanding."
"Well, I've done what I can to help. I hope you can secure the first place in the trial. Then, I can request a spot from the city lord and venture into the Number Five Ruin for a chance to break through to Intermediate Grandmaster."
...
After Chu Feng excitedly left, his phone chimed with a clear notification sound. Opening it, he saw a bank card message: "Received a transfer of 600,000 yuan. Account balance: 632,855.60 yuan."
The special scholarship promised by the principal had finally arrived.
"Finally, I have money. I can buy the best foundational spiritual medicine for my sister," Chu Feng felt invigorated, waving his fist.
After a brief consideration, he decided to first register at the trial office and then go directly to the Nine Cauldrons Mall to purchase foundational spiritual medicine for his sister.
Upon arriving at the registration office, he found that many students were already registering.
"Blood Qi value must be above 1, and combat power must be above 1000 to register! If you want to register, you must pass the test first!" a middle-aged teacher said sternly.
"Hey! Isn't that Chu Feng? Look!" Someone with keen eyesight said.
"He's Chu Feng! He looks so handsome!"
"More importantly, he has strength. He can be selected as an elite member of the Martial Association. That's the key!"
"Martial Master strength, maybe he can get first place in the trial this time!"
...
His arrival directly caused a sensation, like a former idol star making an appearance.
Chu Feng awkwardly touched his nose.
At this moment, a young female teacher with glasses walked over, her eyes filled with curiosity. "You're Chu Feng, right?"
"Yes, teacher, I want to register for the Monster Beast Trial," Chu Feng nodded.
"Well, you don't need to test. Just fill out the form and sign the life and death commitment," the female teacher led Chu Feng to the side.
Strength is paramount!
With strength, one can earn respect!
Chu Feng sighed in his heart.
He needed to work even harder to reach the Grandmaster level as soon as possible. That would be a genuine foundation.
"On Friday morning at nine o'clock, assemble at the school square. Don't be late."
After completing the process, the female teacher kindly reminded Chu Feng.
Chu Feng nodded and then left the registration office.
He then took a taxi to the East District to buy foundational spiritual medicine.
"Here is the Nine Cauldrons Mall," Chu Feng got out of the car, looking up and feeling emotional.
Before him stood a colossal skyscraper, like a sword piercing the sky.
Below the building, the bustling scene was filled with people and lively activities.
Unlike the Heavenly Dawn Mall, the Nine Cauldrons Mall was primarily based on physical stores.
In Qingzhou, the Nine Cauldrons Mall was undoubtedly the largest, offering a variety of elite items such as pills, martial arts techniques, various monster materials, and weapons—all that a martial artist might need could be found here.
Moreover, the prices were fair and honest.
It was rumored that the Nine Cauldrons Mall was the largest in the Dragon Nation, supported by a powerful conglomerate. The branch in Qingzhou was just a level-three branch.
The first to the third floor sold pills, and a sign indicated that the second floor sold foundational spiritual medicines.
Chu Feng took the elevator to the second floor.
Various pills of all kinds overwhelmed the senses.
The fragrance of the pills was intoxicating.
A mature woman in a white qipao walked over, "Sir, may I help you with something?"
"How many types of foundational spiritual medicines do you have for martial cultivation? Which one is the best?" Chu Feng, with over 600,000 yuan on his card, felt somewhat confident.
A hint of surprise flashed across the woman's face. This casually dressed young man was asking for the best foundational spiritual medicine.
Looks can indeed be deceiving!
The woman immediately became charming and smiled, "The best one we have is the foundational spiritual medicine, Jade Dew Jadeite Pill. It's a perfect foundational pill, valued at 30 million yuan each. The Qingzhou branch is temporarily out of stock, but if you need it, we can apply for it immediately, and it should be available in about two days."
Although Chu Feng's expression remained unchanged, his pupils contracted suddenly.
"30 million... this is simply... too expensive!"
He originally thought having over 600,000 yuan on his card was quite a sum. How naive he was!
"No stock? What about the other types?" Chu Feng asked nonchalantly.
"The best foundational spiritual medicine we currently have is Nine Curves Profound Spirit Liquid. Its effects are also excellent, and most of the major master families in Qingzhou purchase this. It is valued at 1 million yuan per dose."
"There's also the Fifty Thousand Yuan, Green Spirit Nurturing Powder."
"The Twenty Thousand Yuan, Qi Gathering Profound Powder."
...
"There's also the ordinary Blood Qi Powder, valued at 50,000 yuan."
The woman in the qipao listed six or seven types of foundational spiritual medicines, smiling at Chu Feng.
Chu Feng hesitated. Should he directly buy the 500,000-yuan Green Spirit Nurturing Powder?
Or should he wait for three days, see the trial results, and then buy the Nine Curves Profound Spirit Liquid?
His sister didn't have a golden finger; she needed the best for her foundational cultivation.
Three days wouldn't make much difference.
If master families could use it, so could my sister.
Chu Feng made up his mind, smiling as he asked, "Is there any discount for the Nine Curves Profound Spirit Liquid?"
Hearing Chu Feng's question, the woman in the qipao immediately brightened her eyes and sweetly said, "Sir, 1 million yuan is already the lowest price. Even the master families pay this price."
Tapping the counter with her fingers, Chu Feng frowned, displeased, "No discount? Then, I'll go check other stores first. Also, please apply to the manager. Perhaps I'll come back another day."
After saying this, Chu Feng turned and walked away.
"Sir, 1 million yuan is truly the lowest price!" The beautiful woman hurriedly said anxiously.
But Chu Feng didn't look back, hastily leaving the building.
He knew, based on the reputation of the Nine Cauldrons Mall, 1 million yuan should be the lowest price. Unless he was a VIP customer, it wouldn't be cheaper.
Chu Feng found an excuse to leave the Tian Di Tower.
Feeling somewhat disappointed, he realized he still hadn't been able to buy foundational spiritual medicine for his sister.
"Focus on cultivation, and make sure to secure the first place in the trial!"
He called his sister and then took a taxi straight to the school.
Ninth Practice Room.
Chu Feng took out a transparent glass bottle containing the heartblood of a first-tier monster.
Inside, a handful of fresh blood formed a vague image of a ferocious monster, brimming with vitality and a thick aura of fierceness.
"Good stuff! The efficacy of this medicine is probably much stronger than Blood Qi Powder."
After watching for a while, Chu Feng directly swallowed it.
With his current martial apprentice physique, there was no need to dilute it.
*Gulp!*
As Chu Feng swallowed, he felt like he had ingested molten lava, a strong burning sensation fiercely stimulating his stomach and intestines.
At the same time, a vast and powerful energy, following the circulation of meridians and blood vessels, thoroughly washed his muscles, meridians, blood, bones, and every cell in his internal organs.
Chu Feng's entire body emitted white mist, indicating that his body was undergoing a transformation.
Enduring the intense pain, he started the Basic Body Forging Technique, digesting the medicinal power to enhance his strength.
Layers of intricate marks formed, and his body continuously changed into inexplicable and bizarre postures.
Sometimes like a leaping fish, sometimes like a crouching toad, sometimes supporting with both arms, sometimes legs close to the ground, rapidly adjusting various postures.
Once...
Twice...
Thrice...
