The next day, early in the morning, the clouds were light and the wind was gentle.
The Central Stadium was bustling with people, and elites from all walks of life across the Continent gathered.
More than half a month had passed since the Federal Grand Competition's opening ceremony.
And in the Central Stadium, the finals for the youth group's individual competition, three-on-three, seven-on-seven, and the young adult group's three events were about to begin.
Yes, under the official's deliberate arrangement, the six finals would conclude within a single day, and the number of people watching the live broadcast today would reach its peak. Any participant in the competition would become famous across the World, which was something countless competitors yearned for.
Under the spotlight, the Federal Speaker, approximately sixty years old, took the stage to speak. His humorous and engaging remarks inadvertently stirred the audience's emotions, and the entire stadium was filled with laughter.
"I officially announce that the Federal Grand Competition Finals Day has officially begun!"
As the Speaker loudly declared, a dazzling soft light immediately erupted from around the stadium, and citizens continuously cheered, "Long live the Federation!"
"Contestants for the youth group individual finals, please enter!"
Two Titled Douluo powerhouses from the War God Hall descended from the sky, each enveloped by nine spirit rings. Although not the optimal configuration, it was still a feast for the audience's eyes.
In the reporter's section, another group of people looked solemn, because they were not from the Douluo Continent, but from the Star Luo Continent.
Since the official government had not yet initiated war, it was currently a period of peace. The Sun Moon Federation government invited staff from the Star Luo Empire's embassy in Mingdu to visit, promoting national prestige while also hoping to use this opportunity to allow people from the Star Luo Continent to learn more about the Douluo Continent.
In fact, it was precisely this visit to the Federal Grand Competition that led to the exchange activities between the two Continents in the original timeline.
But that was a story for later.
"Go!"
Yuanen Yehui took a deep breath and strode towards the competition stage, hearing a spirit power transmission in her ear.
She didn't look back, but simply raised her arm as a response.
Yuanen Yehui's opponent was from the War God Hall, a level forty-seven Spirit Ancestor who was only fourteen and a half years old, considered a top-tier genius.
The match began, and under countless watchful eyes, a battle that wasn't exactly "fair" quickly commenced.
With the Spirit possession and spirit ring release, everyone realized that Yuanen Yehui, a Spirit Elder, was fighting an opponent who was a Spirit Ancestor.
The process was not simple; Yuanen Yehui even fell into danger several times, making Nan Liujing's gaze heavy.
Actually, Yuanen Yehui had successfully broken through to level forty last night, but because she hadn't yet fused with her next soul spirit, she still only had three spirit rings.
Originally, Nan Liujing planned to give Yuanen Yehui a soul spirit selection card as a reward in advance, but she refused him.
Her reasoning was that the competition hadn't ended, and she wasn't yet qualified to receive the reward early.
She was stubborn to the extreme.
It made Nan Liujing want to spank her.
"Roar!"
Ten minutes passed, and the intense battle continued. Yuanen Yehui didn't care about the championship reward, but her opponent did, fighting almost desperately.
Finally, accompanied by a deafening roar, the majestic Titan Giant Ape, covered in wounds, stood on its opponent's body and furiously pounded its chest, declaring its victory.
Transforming from a majestic giant ape into a charming and beautiful young girl, the battle-damaged Yuanen Yehui received the attention of hundreds of millions of people, walking directly to Nan Liujing's side with a solemn expression.
Her red lips parted, and she seemed to say something.
People quickly saw Nan Liujing's expression become complicated.
Right after she finished speaking, Yuanen Yehui stumbled and fell, caught by Nan Liujing who quickly called for a healing Spirit Master to treat her.
Next was the three-on-three final.
The two competing sides were the Spirit Transfer Pagoda and Shrek Academy.
After many years, Shrek Academy's return to the competition undoubtedly attracted countless people's attention. Thanks to Yun Ming's efforts, Shrek Academy's bad reputation had somewhat recovered, and there were many supporters online.
But some were happy, while others were sad.
Just as Leng Yaozhu, Qiangu Dongfeng, Qiangu Qingfeng, and other high-ranking officials of the Spirit Transfer Pagoda applauded and praised their disciples, on the other side, the leaders of Shrek Academy looked quite displeased.
In this three-on-three match, the three disciples of the Spirit Transfer Pagoda almost completely overwhelmed the Shrek Academy students, leading to a significant wave of discussion.
Was this still the legendary Shrek Academy that had won all the Continent-wide championships for ten thousand years?
They were getting thoroughly beaten.
At the end of the match, the big screen showed the excited faces of the three Spirit Transfer Pagoda disciples.
Having defeated Shrek Academy, once the competition concluded and they returned to the Heavenly Spirit Pagoda for rewards, their treatment as core disciples was certainly assured.
Shen Yi chewed gum, her arms crossed, her gaze vacant.
She was already considering which renovation store to book.
The humiliating defeat in the three-on-three match was evident from Long Yueming's ashen face; she would most likely be punished to live in the work-study student dormitory. This was one of the places where direct-line students received punishment; it wasn't severe, but it was quite embarrassing because it required her to take on work-study student duties, such as daily cleaning.
Speaking of which… Shen Yi's gaze fell on Yuanen Yehui, who was currently receiving treatment, and she mused, "Her relationship with Nan Liujing is unusual. Should I just help her renovate the work-study student dormitory too? After all, she'll be my roommate soon."
The discussions about Shrek's crushing defeat were endless, and Long Yueming's blood pressure instantly rose. She bit her tongue, holding back from speaking.
Soon, the youth group's seven-on-seven match continued.
The opposing sides were Shrek Academy and the War God Hall.
"War God Hall!"
"War God Hall!"
The War God Hall represented the Federation, especially with the host city being Mingdu. The level of cheers it received was indescribable; almost ninety-five percent of the audience on site were cheering for the War God Hall contestants.
The seven contestants from the War God Hall stood expressionless.
The seven Inner Courtyard reserve students from Shrek Academy, however, smiled confidently, fighting with the glory of ten thousand years, as if they already held the championship in their hands.
Representing the Academy this time, they vowed to defeat the War God Hall team and proclaim their glorious return.
The match began.
The Shrek Academy students immediately displayed their various abilities. Since their individual strength was stronger, they almost completely suppressed the War God Hall contestants in the first few minutes.
The audience initially thought this battle would be one-sided, but soon these students from the War God Training Camp taught everyone a lesson called "resilience and indomitable Spirit."
As time passed, the Shrek Academy students still couldn't find a breakthrough point against the War God Hall team, and the situation immediately changed.
Compared to the increasingly impatient Shrek Academy students, who made frequent mistakes, the seven members of the War God Hall remained terrifyingly calm throughout, gradually gaining the upper hand. They were neither arrogant nor complacent, like an impenetrable iron barrel, making their enemies feel powerless.
The scales of victory began to tip. The Shrek Academy leaders grew anxious, and Long Yueming clenched her fists, her eyes almost spewing fire.
The powerhouses of the War God Hall, led by Guan Yue, maintained a solemn silence.
In terms of individual strength, the War God Hall contestants were indeed inferior to Shrek, but they had an excellent, almost perfect, resume.
That was, every single one of them had genuinely been to the battlefield and fought against brutal Abyssal Creatures.
In that Dark Nether Land, teamwork was the most important lesson. Any casualties resulting from not trusting one's teammates always shocked every batch of students who came through the training camp.
As one side gained and the other lost, finally, under the gaze of countless eyes, when a War God Hall contestant cleaved a Shrek contestant with a blade, the counterattack began.
The War God Hall contestants unleashed a continuous, relentless offensive, giving their enemies no chance to breathe.
Just like how their opponents had dealt with them at the beginning.
The seven Shrek contestants were instantly stunned by the sudden counterattack. By the end, there were even instances of friendly fire.
In less than three minutes, on the vast competition stage, seven people lay on the ground, while seven stood side by side, forming a contrasting scene.
The defeated had lifeless eyes, like shattered porcelain, transformed from precious to worthless.
The victors had firm eyes, without a trace of pride on their faces, as if this victory had nothing to do with them.
Reporters on site keenly captured how suitable this scene was for a front-page headline. For a time, media flashes were constant.
Online, hundreds of millions of viewers watching the live broadcast began to flood the screens. Those who supported Shrek Academy were silent, even incredulous, while those who disliked Shrek Academy typed furiously to mock them.
The entire internet was like a New Year's celebration.
On the hot list, a trending topic immediately appeared, even kicking the adult group competition's trending topic down.
"Shrek Academy Suffers Consecutive Crushing Defeats, Youth Group Fails to Win a Single Championship in Three Events. Is the Continent's Number One Academy Truly Talented, or Just All Talk?"
They lost again!
When the live audience collectively shouted the three words "War God Hall," and the War God Hall contestants bathed in the sunlight, accepting the cheers of the masses, and when the Shrek Academy students appeared on the big screen with lifeless eyes, looking like their dao hearts were shattered, Long Yueming could no longer hold back. With clenched fists, her light and dark spirit power exploded, instantly crushing the space in her palm.
"Hmm?"
In an instant, from the Spirit Transfer Pagoda's side, Leng Yaozhu, Qiangu Dongfeng, and Qiangu Qingfeng all looked over, their gazes not very friendly.
How terrifying were the gazes of three Limit Douluo? Long Yueming was briefly enraged, but quickly reined it in.
She was not Yun Ming; she did not possess the top-tier strength in this World.
Others might give her face, but the Spirit Transfer Pagoda's Limit Douluo would not.
With her teeth almost ground to dust in her tightly shut mouth, Long Yueming's face was extremely grim. She strode away from the stands, leaning on her crutch.
But before Long Yueming could enter the exit passage, voices rang out, making her stop in her tracks.
Dark Spirit light flowed from her body, as cold as an abyss, chilling the other Shrek leaders who followed her.
At that moment, on site, hundreds of thousands of people suddenly began to shout, but it wasn't cheering—it was cursing!
"Shrek, trash!"
"Shrek, trash!"
"Shrek, get out of Mingdu!"
On the Douluo Continent, Mingdu, as the city that most hated Shrek City and Shrek Academy, watching their old rival get utterly crushed, the feeling of exhilaration almost made everyone's faces flush red, nearly reaching a climax of excitement.
I don't care if there are any powerhouses from Shrek here; I'm just going to curse.
If you're not happy, then do something in front of the whole World!
"Good, good!"
After her extreme anger, Long Yueming's face became devoid of any expression. She walked with heavy steps into the passage, the sunlight leaving her hunched figure, while the dimness gradually swallowed her.
The other leaders followed, Shen Yi's expression solemn.
Her teacher had told her that he didn't support Elder Long leading the team because her personality was too extreme. If the ten-thousand-year glory was lost, she might even go mad.
She hoped there would be good news from the adult group competition, otherwise Elder Long might truly go to extremes.
The insults were still ringing in her ears. Shen Yi looked back and sighed deeply.
If other places were to insult the Academy she believed in like this, she would be angry, but this was Mingdu of all places.
She was aware of what the Academy had once done to Mingdu.
The insults spread across the Continent via the live broadcast, leaving people in other cities on the Continent stunned. Who would have thought that the citizens of the capital would hate Shrek Academy so much?
Some high-ranking federal officials were happy to see Shrek Academy being cursed, but they couldn't just let it continue unchecked.
Therefore, after the youth group competition ended, many singers from the entertainment industry took the stage to perform, guiding the atmosphere in the correct direction.
At the same time, the contestants for the young adult group also began to warm up.
Nan Liujing listened with closed eyes. As the insults turned into beautiful singing, he suddenly felt a soft yet quite strong touch on his shoulder, and he immediately relaxed.
He chuckled, "What is this? Pre-match encouragement?"
Wu Siduo stood behind Nan Liujing, her fair, delicate hands gently massaging him, a faint smile on her charming face: "My mother often massages my father's shoulders. Over the years, I've developed a technique that can soothe the meridians. How does it feel?"
She had come secretly, because Ye Xinglan had gone to see Yuanen Yehui.
Nan Liujing showed a look of contentment and sighed, "What a pity."
"Why a pity?" Wu Siduo asked, puzzled.
Nan Liujing teased, "If my great-uncle had been more assertive back then, Uncle Wu might have agreed to your engagement with me."
"Then today, it would be a dutiful fiancée massaging her beloved fiancé's shoulders."
As soon as Nan Liujing finished speaking, he immediately felt the movement on his shoulder pause.
Wu Siduo's pretty face froze, a blush instantly spread across her fair face, and in her flustered eyes, her previous composure was gone. She turned and left in a hurry, saying, "I'm going to see how Yuanen is."
The lingering scent of the young girl was gone. Nan Liujing opened his eyes and smiled.
After he came to Mingdu, his great-uncle had called him privately, clearly indicating that Uncle Wu had some other ideas.
It wasn't surprising that Wu Jingru did this; the two families already had a good relationship. Nan Liujing's talent was exceptional, and his daughter was also excellent. If they could be together, it would be perfect.
For personal gain, the family could climb up the Spirit Transfer Pagoda.
As a father, he firmly believed his daughter would have a perfect future.
Looking up at the clear blue sky, Nan Liujing exhaled. More and more girls were appearing around him.
Not far away, Xu Zihuang also had his eyes closed, surrounded by the Tang Sect contestants.
"Zihuang, how's your recovery?"
The leader responsible for the Tang Sect's seven-on-seven match asked in a deep voice.
With many eyes watching, Xu Zihuang slowly opened his eyes. His pair of enchanting purple pupils held a sense of tranquility. "I can exert seventy percent of my peak condition."
"Seventy percent." Several leaders exchanged glances.
A team member asked, "Is that enough?"
Another female team member said, "That Nan Liujing is too abnormal. With a four-ring cultivation, his actual combat power is comparable to a Spirit Emperor not using battle armor."
Xu Zihuang calmly said, "My seventy percent is equivalent to a high-tier Spirit King. Nan Liujing's cultivation is only four rings, so I already have an advantage. Not being at my peak this time also adds some fairness."
He didn't care about the female team member saying that Nan Liujing's four-ring strength was comparable to a six-ring one.
Seeing him like this, the others didn't say much more.
The conversation gradually shifted to Shrek Academy.
In these three youth group finals, Shrek Academy didn't win a single championship. Based on their understanding of Shrek Academy,
this group of youth team members would most likely be punished upon returning to the Academy.
After all, this was the first time in many years that the Academy had returned to the Grand Competition.
Failing the first time was the most frustrating.
However, what the Tang Sect members didn't know was that even before returning to Shrek Academy, the students who participated in the youth group competition had already received punishments personally approved by Long Yueming.
The students were stripped of their Inner Courtyard reserve student qualifications and demoted to Outer Courtyard students. At the same time, they were ordered not to enjoy the various welfare systems that Outer Courtyard students had recently received for the next three years.
From the team leaders down to all the students, everyone was thoroughly scolded.
Long Yueming unleashed all the anger she had accumulated in the stadium onto them.
I was submissive to the powerhouses of the Spirit Transfer Pagoda, but I hit my own people hard!
Shen Yi's face was not looking good after being scolded, but at the same time, she felt fortunate.
Long Yueming would at most punish you. If Cai Yueer had been here, she would have expelled you on the spot.
The halftime show concluded, and the entertainment industry's superstar singer waved to the audience. After he exited the stage, the atmosphere in the entire stadium returned to the rhythm of the competition.
Two Titled Douluo referees descended from the sky again, standing on either side of the competition stage, their nine spirit rings displaying astonishing pressure.
"The finals continue. Next, please welcome the two contestants for the youth group's individual competition!" the referee on the left calmly announced.
The large screen focused on the contestant waiting area, and Nan Liujing and Xu Zihuang rose almost simultaneously and walked towards the competition stage.
"Nan Liujing!"
"Xu Zihuang!"
Compared to the junior group, the youth group clearly had many more spectators, which could be seen from the shouts calling out their names.
The younger generation of Spirit Master spectators all had envious looks in their eyes. Being able to stand on the competition stage of the youth group's individual finals essentially confirmed that these two individuals would become Titled Douluo in the future.
Upon reaching that level of cultivation, they were officially recognized by the Federation and could be addressed as Your Excellency!
This ancient title, in modern society, had become a symbol of status that could never be surpassed.
Many high-ranking officials from various major forces present at the scene turned their gaze towards Nan Liujing.
His teacher, the Sky Phoenix Douluo, renowned throughout the World for her strength and beauty, was present, and even the Sky Bearing Douluo, who had never personally attended the Federal Grand Competition before, had come.
It was clear how important this young man was to the Spirit Transfer Pagoda.
Four-ring against six-ring, and so young, he would likely become another Sky Bearing Douluo in the future.
Some were anxious, some were happy, and some…
Xu Zihuang lowered his gaze as he walked, a hint of unwillingness in his eyes. He had just looked at the high-ranking officials of the Tang Sect, only to find that all of their gazes, including Vice Sect Master Zang Xin, were not on him, but on Nan Liujing, who was not far away.
Xu Zihuang unconsciously clenched his fists. His ancestors were He Caitou and Xiao Xiao, two of the Shrek Seven Devils from ten thousand years ago. As a Tang Sect disciple, he could be said to be of pure lineage, and his childhood dream was to inherit the position of Sect Master, hoping to make the Tang Sect great again by standing on the shoulders of generations of ancestors.
On the Douluo Continent, the Tang Sect's reputation was not as deeply ingrained as in previous years. While being wary of the Federation was one thing, it was more due to the lack of top-tier powerhouses within the sect to suppress an era, so they could only try to be low-key.
Didn't Shrek Academy dare to confront the Federation head-on before simply because Sky Bearing Douluo was still alive?
Now, it seemed all of this was just his delusion. From beginning to end, the higher-ups had never considered him to inherit the highest position on that ladder.
I refuse!
He had thought he could calmly face Nan Liujing, but as he truly stepped onto the competition stage, facing the gaze of hundreds of thousands of people, Xu Zihuang's eyes flickered with deep purple light. He realized he was wrong; he simply couldn't deceive himself into being calm.
"I will crush you!"
Under the gaze of all, Nan Liujing had just taken his position, preparing to wait for the referee's signal, when he suddenly heard a cold voice.
In an instant, that voice spread throughout the entire stadium via the sound-amplifying spirit tool.
The shouting audience subconsciously quieted down.
High-ranking officials from various major forces showed interest. Since it was a competition, how could it proceed without some provocation?
Nan Liujing raised an eyebrow, his gaze fixed on Xu Zihuang.
The two referees exchanged glances, tacitly closing their mouths, deciding to give Xu Zihuang a chance to utter harsh words.
Xu Zihuang said coldly, "Not only will I completely crush you, but I will also prove to them that I am the one who can represent the future of the Tang Sect!"
Everyone turned their gaze to Nan Liujing, wanting to see how he would respond to these words, which were almost a declaration of war.
On the Douluo Continent, being overly gentle would not garner much applause. What people wanted to see was dominance.
A Spirit Master should have the passion of a Spirit Master!
Nan Liujing was silent for a few seconds. He suddenly turned around, his gaze sweeping across the entire stadium, taking in every face, and finally looking back at Xu Zihuang.
His voice was very calm, yet it exploded like thunder in everyone's ears:
"You represent the future of the Tang Sect, and I represent the future of the Douluo Continent!"
Dead silence!
The sound in the entire Central Stadium completely ceased. The audience's eyes suddenly widened, and the high-ranking officials of various major forces present also showed stunned expressions.
For the hundreds of millions of netizens watching the live broadcast, their eyes only saw the clear and handsome young man's calm and composed face on the screen, and their scalps felt a tingling sensation.
"Whoosh!"
After only two seconds, a roar far exceeding any previous one echoed through the sky. Hundreds of thousands of people on site, almost all with flushed faces, cheered wildly.
The sound wave was comparable to a surging tsunami in the ocean.
The younger generation of Spirit Masters looked at the young man's almost arrogant declaration with astonished expressions. Few spectators were Spirit Masters, mainly watching for the excitement, but as Spirit Masters themselves, they were deeply shocked.
This World never lacked geniuses, but no one had ever dared to claim to represent the future of an entire continent in front of countless people.
However, looking at Nan Liujing's calm demeanor and recalling his stunning performances in the previous few matches, many young Spirit Masters subconsciously chose to believe him, their emotions stirred. Some couldn't help but shout loudly.
It wasn't until they were stopped by those around them that they sobered up, but the intense fluctuations in their hearts did not stop.
What happened today would be remembered by many for a lifetime.
In the stands, Ye Xinglan's hands were tightly clasped together, her long, heroic beautiful eyes showing fervent affection. In her World, there was only her childhood sweetheart.
Wu Siduo's rosy little mouth was slightly agape, her delicate, jade-white skin showing a flush, and her high chest heaved with rapid breaths.
While inheriting the Hell Civet Spirit, she also awakened her bloodline, which allowed her to perform the self-Spirit fusion ability. But precisely because of her bloodline, the dependent genes engraved within it completely erupted at this moment.
Normally, she could, of course, ignore the stirrings within her bloodline, but Nan Liujing was different. Having known him since childhood, coupled with her elders' subtle instructions, the young man's shadow had long been etched into the girl's heart.
Yuanen Yehui's injuries had mostly healed. She glanced at Wu Siduo's flushed face, then looked at the young man she would follow in the future, her deep, dark eyes gradually becoming fervent.
Xu Zihuang's pupils constricted. He listened in disbelief to his opponent's declaration.
One was the Tang Sect, the other was a continent.
In terms of prestige, he lost.
"Referee, please announce the start of the match." Nan Liujing said calmly.
The two referees' eyes shimmered with unusual light. After exchanging glances, the referee on the right spoke, "Both sides retreat one hundred and fifty meters and await the command!"
Nan Liujing turned and left without the slightest hesitation.
Xu Zihuang stared at his back with a complicated expression. Moments later, his steps noticeably became heavier.
spirit power shields quickly expanded on both sides, enveloping the entire competition stage area.
The referee raised his right hand: "Match… start!"
A strong spirit power hum burst from Nan Liujing's body, and four pitch-black spirit rings rose from beneath his feet. He no longer waited for his opponent to attack as he had before, but instead took the initiative.
With a thought, a scene that caused countless people to exclaim appeared. Terrible dark blue electric light splashed from his body, and viscous lightning fluid spread from his skin. In a turn, his body was enveloped by a set of battle armor primarily dark silver, complemented by deep blue and blood-red luster.
"Two-Word Battle Armor!"
"How can a four-ring Spirit Master merge with Two-Word Battle Armor?"
For a time, the Spirit Masters outside the arena exclaimed continuously.
To distinguish the battle armor level, one could tell by whether it had wings. And the prominent feature of Two-Word Battle Armor, besides being able to solidify a Spirit Ability, was that it came with wings.
Behind Nan Liujing, a pair of dreamlike lightning wings indeed unfolded. Three colors of light intertwined and flowed from the edges of the wings. They were entirely composed of energy, looking as brilliant as the starry sky.
The distance of one hundred and fifty meters, after Nan Liujing released Three Thousand Thunderclap and his battle armor wings, was crossed in almost a breath's time. To others, it simply looked like a thin streak of lightning flashing by.
Nan Liujing's speed was so fast that the air produced an ear-piercing roar, and the ground was even ploughed into a scorched gully by the violent lightning energy wave. The scattered stones on both sides melted into crystalline slag in the high temperature before they could even splash.
Xu Zihuang clearly had not expected Nan Liujing to be a Two-Word Battle Armor Master. By the time he charged at him, he hastily summoned his battle armor to cover his entire body, but because of yesterday's battle, his battle armor had not been completely repaired, and the increase in his aura was clearly insufficient.
Nan Liujing's right fist, imbued with rod intent and extreme lightning, struck Xu Zihuang's chest without any hesitation.
The jab looked simple, but it caused the air within a dozen meters around Xu Zihuang to suddenly collapse. Being within it, his body's movements felt as if heavy lead had been poured into them.
"Boom!"
A booming sound exploded. The audience only felt a flash before their eyes and couldn't see clearly. Xu Zihuang's figure, flying backward like a cannonball, appeared in their vision.
He crashed heavily into the spirit power shield, causing the light patterns on the shield to flicker wildly. On his deep purple battle armor, which hadn't been fully repaired, intense energy turbulence also emanated, wildly destroying its defensive power.
Bouncing off the shield, Xu Zihuang's internal organs were nearly dislocated. He glanced at a subtle fist print above his chest, his entire face extremely solemn, because the rod intent had already penetrated the battle armor's defense. If he hadn't activated his spirit power to protect his body at the critical moment, his body would have been pierced by a blood hole on the spot.
Suddenly, the sky abruptly darkened.
Xu Zihuang looked up, his pupils suddenly constricting.
A Coiling Dragon Rod, dozens of meters long, swung down, its massive size covering the sky and sun. One could even see lifelike dragon scales on it, and a dazzling lightning aura vaguely surged from the gaps. Sunlight poured down and intertwined with it, as if the power of the sky had merged into it, flowing into a waterfall of light that illuminated the entire competition stage, exceptionally brilliant, yet extremely deadly!
Coiling Dragon Rod's Fourth Spirit Ability: Heavenly Gang Thunder Pole, the fourth Spirit Ability granted to Nan Liujing by the Thunderclap Hell Vine!
Before the rod arrived, terrifying thunder pressure descended like the sky collapsing. Xu Zihuang's body suddenly sank, and his battle armor also glowed with a deep radiance to help him resist. With a crack, the floor beneath his feet was instantly cracked by him.
"Roar."
Being suppressed in reverse immediately ignited the strongest rage in Xu Zihuang's heart. He roared, his whole body radiating terrifying destructive light. His last deep ten-thousand-year spirit ring quietly lit up, and at the same time, his left leg also glowed with a deep, ghostly light.
That was a Spirit Bone, but this Spirit Bone did not provide an offensive Spirit Ability; it was an amplification!
The ground erupted like a volcano, and destructive flames capable of annihilating all things surged out. The surrounding area's vitality seemed to be plundered, becoming dim and heavy. Xu Zihuang reached out and grasped, and scorching purple-black dragon flames gathered. He then slashed towards the sky.
A purple-black dragon-shaped sword qi, nearly a hundred meters long, rose from the ground. The power of destruction eroded everything in its path, and in an instant, the elemental energy of heaven and earth turned into nothingness, finally slamming heavily onto the massive Coiling Dragon Rod.
Hum~
There was no violent roar, nor terrible fluctuations tearing apart everything around. There was only the deep, ghostly light that lit up at the center of the collision due to the collapse. Two terrifying energy fluctuations bit at each other, and space cracked open, revealing a pitch-black void.
"Slash!"
On the ground, Xu Zihuang's face was almost contorted. His battle armor burned with blazing light, frantically squeezing his spirit power into the purple-black dragon-shaped sword qi.
Responding to him was Nan Liujing's silent descent of Heavenly Gang. At this moment, he seemed to have become the spokesperson of the sky.
The sky suddenly darkened, as if endless power was added to the Coiling Dragon Rod, its force increasing to an astonishing value.
For a moment, under the gaze of hundreds of thousands of eyes, the sky-filling dragon-shaped Heavenly Gang danced, and its array of roars actually shattered the floating Purple Blaze Heaven Extinguishing Dragon light and shadow within the purple-black sword qi on the spot.
Along with a cracking sound, dense cracks suddenly appeared on the purple-black dragon-shaped sword qi. It slashed towards the sky, seemingly infuriating it, and a terrifying repulsive force squeezed down.
Finally, amidst the exclamations of countless people, the dragon-shaped sword qi completely shattered, turning into a sky full of light particles.
The immensely huge Coiling Dragon Rod was still pressing down, carrying the might to crush mountains and rivers as it continued to smash. The Heavenly Gang Thunder Pressure drew in the thunder elements from heaven and earth, and the entire competition stage seemed to enter a thunder domain, flashing with deadly radiance.
Even with his battle armor's protection, Xu Zihuang's blood felt as if it had cooled down, and his spirit power solidified, making its circulation extremely difficult.
The blow of defeat made his eyes vacant.
He had considered many possibilities, but he had absolutely never imagined that he would be suppressed so miserably.
Whoosh! Whoosh!
Without any hesitation, the two terrifyingly powerful referees made their move.
One supported the descending Coiling Dragon Rod with a single hand, while the other grabbed Xu Zihuang and pulled him away.
"Such strong repulsive force, the sky is expelling me!"
The referee blocking the Coiling Dragon Rod would naturally not be harmed by a junior, but a trace of shock still appeared on his face.
With a flash of his figure, the referee had to let Nan Liujing's attack land; he could not forcibly interrupt it.
The Coiling Dragon Rod struck the ground like an extraterrestrial meteor, raising a terrifying energy storm that swept through everything like a typhoon.
The scene within the competition stage was almost invisible, but the spirit power shield of the Central Stadium was clearly of a very high level, preventing any defensive failures or ruptures.
When the energy storm dissipated, countless pairs of eyes widened and stared into the competition stage.
Amidst the hazy smoke, streaks of electric light tore through it. A figure bathed in dazzling heavenly light stood in the center of the shattered competition stage. The magnificent battle armor, like a work of art, emitted a crystal-clear radiance. The dark green Coiling Dragon Rod in his hand smashed down, and a strong gale swept out, clearing away all dust.
Hiss.
Gasps of breath rose and fell.
What met the audience's eyes was a sea of thunder within a wasteland, with deep electric arcs flowing through it, viscous and dreamlike, as if anyone who stepped into it would be melted by the high temperature.
Standing inside was only Nan Liujing!
The viscous lightning fluid contracted inward, and the battle armor returned to his body. The young man in a black combat suit smiled calmly as he faced the sunlight, his voice spreading far and wide.
"I am the foremost of my generation! Who supports? Who opposes?"
"Nan Liujing!"
"Nan Liujing!"
Cheers like a mountain and a tsunami rose again, and the audience stood up to cheer.
Countless media flashlights fell upon him. For a long time to come, the young man's figure standing on the competition stage would only gradually be forgotten by time.
The younger generation of Spirit Masters, whether present at the scene or far away at home, all subconsciously swallowed their saliva.
The older generation of powerhouses present exchanged glances, each showing a hint of absentmindedness.
They were very strong, but they encountered Yun Ming, who suppressed an era. The current younger generation, with geniuses erupting like a geyser, could be described as a fierce struggle between dragons and tigers, but now, they too would encounter the one who would suppress their era!
This would be the most tragic day for everyone who considered themselves a genius.
Xu Zihuang, who was saved by the referee, looked down at the spirited young man, his face full of bitterness and unwillingness.
He lost too quickly, so quickly that even he found it unbelievable, but that Dragon-Coiling Giant Pillar was indeed powerful. The pressure, like the sky collapsing, almost crushed his will.
"Not convinced?"
Unbeknownst to him, a figure had quietly appeared behind Xu Zihuang.
Xu Zihuang's body trembled. He turned around and respectfully said, "Deputy Hall Master."
Zang Xin's expression was quite serious, and he took on the role of a life mentor:
"Your opponent defeated you fair and square. You should congratulate him and encourage yourself. It's just a loss. Who in this World hasn't lost? I, the Hall Master, we have all lost, but that doesn't stop us from becoming the top powerhouses in this World."
"Go, applaud your opponent. Don't let me look down on you."
Xu Zihuang was stunned. He subconsciously looked at Nan Liujing.
At that moment, Nan Liujing, who was receiving the cheers of the crowd, seemed to have a telepathic connection and also looked at him.
Nan Liujing smiled gently and nodded, without the slightest hint of the arrogance he had just displayed when he said, "I am the future!"
Xu Zihuang's eyelids trembled slightly, and the unwillingness in his heart was shattered. He smiled with relief and applauded kindly.
Some sharp-eyed media reporters at the scene captured this moment.
For a time, in the live broadcasts across the Douluo Continent, the scene of the loser applauding the winner appeared. The audience who had previously mocked Xu Zihuang for 'boasting' and 'overestimating himself' were moved by this scene, and the overwhelming mockery on the internet suddenly decreased.
Nan Liujing won everything, but Xu Zihuang only lost the championship. He lost standing tall.
The competition still had to continue, and the contestants for the three-on-three and seven-on-seven matches were already eager to begin.
After Nan Liujing waved his hand, he walked off the competition stage. As soon as he entered the contestant passage, five graceful figures were already waiting there.
Two adults, three younger ones.
Xia Zheng Leng, Leng Yaozhu, Ye Xinglan, Yuanen Yehui, Wu Siduo.
Ye Xinglan curved her lips into a smile and raised her fair hand to Nan Liujing, who was walking towards her.
With a clap, their hands met.
Yuanen Yehui and Wu Siduo followed suit.
With two consecutive claps, they also completed a friendly exchange with Nan Liujing.
"Teacher, you contributed a lot to my achievements today. How about a hug?" Nan Liujing looked at Leng Yaozhu and said with a smile.
Leng Yaozhu's eyesight was incredibly sharp. She immediately noticed the hint of an unusual look in her disciple's eyes and couldn't help but think, "Bold fellow."
One must know, Xia Zheng Leng was right beside her.
While she thought about it, Leng Yaozhu still extended her hands. The blood flow in her body clearly accelerated. That thrill of dancing on the edge of impropriety made her quite infatuated.
Under the gaze of the other four women, the master and disciple embraced.
Leng Yaozhu carried an extremely pleasant, orchid-like fragrance. That familiar scent instantly awakened memories deep within Nan Liujing's mind.
On the night he got drunk, he had carried the older woman, who had deliberately feigned drunkenness, to the bed in a princess carry. Just as he was about to leave, the older woman, muttering in her sleep, fiercely hugged his neck and buried his face in her magnificent chest.
The future of the Douluo Continent almost suffocated between those terrifying peaks.
This embrace today, the two quickly separated and did not attract external attention.
Leng Yaozhu's wine-red beautiful eyes still trembled slightly. She hadn't expected her disciple to be so bold as to secretly knead her waist with his hand.
Now her waist still felt a tingling sensation.
Now he dares to knead her waist, what else will he dare to do in the future? It's simply… so stimulating.
Xia Zheng Leng didn't notice anything. Her attitude towards Nan Liujing was purely the doting affection of an elder towards a junior. She smiled kindly, "Your father got second place in the youth individual competition back then, leaving a regret. This time, go pay your respects to him with the honor of a champion."
"Yes." Mentioning his deceased father, Nan Liujing nodded with a solemn expression.
Everyone returned to the audience seats, preparing to watch the last two matches.
Knowing well the principle that a prominent tree attracts the wind, the Spirit Transfer Pagoda had intentionally conceded some matches in the Federal Grand Competition in recent years.
For example, in the three-on-three final, one side was the War God Hall, and the other was a force called the Heavenly Frost Alliance.
This Heavenly Frost Alliance was located on the edge of the Endless Mountains and was deeply involved with the Federal government.
And the Endless Mountains was precisely where the Blood God Legion was stationed.
This match was an upset. The Heavenly Frost Alliance stubbornly defeated the War God Hall, winning the three-on-three championship and ending their record of ten consecutive championships.
Immediately following the seven-on-seven match, the Spirit Transfer Pagoda and the War God Hall, as old rivals, met, and an incredibly fierce battle ignited the entire arena.
With four Spirit Transfer Pagoda members severely injured and three War God Hall members severely injured, the War God Hall ultimately narrowly won the championship.
At this point, all competitions below the adult group in the Federal Grand Competition concluded.
After another performance by post-match singers and dancers, the Federal Speaker appeared and announced that the adult group's seven-on-seven free-for-all would officially begin tomorrow noon in Sun Moon Canyon.
For a time, the entire Douluo Continent was immersed in the anticipation of the final super free-for-all, with countless people discussing it.
Would the War God Hall defend its title, or would the Spirit Transfer Pagoda make a comeback as the old king, or would a dark horse emerge?
The competition format had changed after all. In a free-for-all, even powerhouses like these two might stumble.
As for Shrek Academy.
It was just a roadside attraction.
In the three youth group competitions, they didn't win a single championship, which completely led the Douluo Continent's populace to question Shrek Academy's educational strength.
A topic that attracted many people's attention even gradually emerged online.
It was a post left by an anonymous netizen, the specific content of which stated that Shrek Academy was able to win the championship of the All-Continent Advanced Spirit Master Elite Competition for thousands of years purely by cheating.
Below this post, there were many people watching the show and scolding the poster.
Extreme Shrek lovers stated that while Shrek Academy lost the competition, they accepted it, but they absolutely did not believe Shrek Academy would cheat. If it were true, they would eat excrement while standing on their heads!
…
Night.
Riyue Royal Hotel.
Qiangu Qingfeng hosted some people. He arranged a celebration banquet for Nan Liujing to celebrate his victory in the youth individual competition.
Nan Liujing himself wasn't very fond of such celebration banquets, but he quickly understood that a celebration banquet was one thing, and secretly, there were other matters to discuss with him.
After dinner, Ye Xinglan and the other girls sensibly left to rest first.
And in the tea room, several top figures of the Douluo Continent gathered.
Spirit Transfer Pagoda: Qiangu Qingfeng, Leng Yaozhu, Xia Zheng Leng.
Forging Master Association: Zhen Hua.
War God Hall: Yu Guanzhi, Commander Long Tianwu, Ao Rui, Luo Yuhang.
Of course, Nan Liujing, as the center of the discussion, was also present.
Yu Guanzhi, Deputy Hall Master of the War God Hall, and Legion Commander of the Central Legion.
His face was ancient, with a hooked nose, and his eyes were like those of a fierce tiger, carrying a captivating sharpness.
However, the content to be discussed today made his tone noticeably gentle: "After learning that Liu Jing is Zhen Hua's disciple, I had this idea. Purgatory, Heavenly Phoenix, you can consider whether to let this child go to the front lines for some experience."
"You also know that with his current strength, staying at Shrek Academy is fine for a relaxed vacation; they can't teach him anything there."
Qiangu Qingfeng and Leng Yaozhu's eyes were deep, and they did not speak immediately.
Nan Liujing sat beside Xia Zheng Leng, lost in thought.
The content of the discussion was actually some of the things Xu Junlan had talked about with him when she chatted with him earlier.
Xia Zheng Leng said in a deep voice, "Abyssal Creatures are extremely dangerous. I think it's too early for Liu Jing to go now."
She didn't object to her Grandfather going to the front lines for experience, after all, flowers in a greenhouse can't withstand wind and rain. But as the only male heir in the family, she was also worried about the child getting hurt.
Zhen Hua interjected, "I can understand Grandfather Han Yun's concerns, so this time I called Elder Yu, thinking of discussing it first. If Liu Jing himself also has this idea, we can find a suitable time to go later."
Xia Zheng Leng's expression softened, "Then you all continue, I'll listen."
Qiangu Qingfeng followed up, "The front lines can be gone to, and must be gone to, but we need to wait until Liu Jing reaches Spirit King."
Yu Guanzhi and several of his War God Hall colleagues exchanged glances.
If it was Spirit King, with the opponent's talent, at the very least, it would take at least a year to reach, or even longer.
They were certainly willing to wait. Yu Guanzhi thought for a moment and said, "Alright."
Qiangu Qingfeng said indifferently, "It's not enough for just us old guys to talk, we also need to ask the child's opinion."
He looked at Nan Liujing.
The others also looked over conveniently.
Zhen Hua's eyes were bright, and he looked at his disciple with anticipation.
He had actually been paving the way for Nan Liujing all along. Firstly, the Spirit Transfer Pagoda had sufficient strength and was very close to the Federation, but no matter how close, it couldn't change one thing.
The Federation was wary of Shrek Academy, and equally wary of the Spirit Transfer Pagoda. Therefore, in order to facilitate his disciple's complete growth and to truly foster friendly relations with the Federation, and to gain the friendship of many high-ranking Federation officials, the War God Hall was the best choice.
Being strong indeed made things easier, but compared to forcing a path with fists, it was probably more comfortable to get a green light with just a word.
Nan Liujing slowly said, "Xu Junlan from the War God Training Camp talked to me about these things before, and I considered it afterward. Originally, I refused."
As soon as the word "refused" came out, Yu Guanzhi and the others instinctively frowned slightly, but Nan Liujing's next sentence made their eyes light up.
"But I remembered the scars on Xu Junlan's body, which were left by Abyssal Creatures. As someone not much older than me, they have already begun to diligently protect their homeland and fight against monsters from other planes, and they take pride in it. I think, as the Grandson of Purgatory and Han Yun Douluo, and as the disciple of Heavenly Phoenix and Divine Craftsman, I have accepted the resources given by my elders, and I naturally need to show the proper attitude to repay them and bring them glory."
"Therefore, even if you seniors hadn't come today, I was planning to have my Grandfather put my name on the list of core disciples from the Spirit Transfer Pagoda going to the War God Training Camp."
Nan Liujing's thoughts were entirely from the heart.
What he could see were the four close elders with expressions of great surprise.
And Yu Guanzhi and the others also had exceptionally wonderful expressions, their eyes much gentler and closer than before.
This child has great potential!
And excellent character!
"Good!" Yu Guanzhi excitedly slapped the armrest of his seat.
"You kid are to my liking, Purgatory. This child's first soul spirit is at the ten-thousand-year level and can provide four spirit rings, so when he reaches Spirit King cultivation, he must fuse with a second soul spirit. This soul spirit, I will provide it."
Upon hearing this, the three Spirit Transfer Pagoda bigwigs collectively changed their expressions slightly.
Not disdain, but surprise.
The reason was simple: the Yu family's ancestral land had experienced several spatial rifts in the past, from which some powerful creatures not belonging to the Douluo Plane had emerged.
With the help of the Spirit Transfer Pagoda, after great difficulty, these creatures were barely made into inherited soul spirits, each of them an unyielding soul spirit, of surprisingly good quality.
Leng Yaozhu furrowed her delicate brows and said, "The Yu family indeed possesses some top-quality soul spirits, but they might not be suitable for Liu Jing."
Yu Guanzhi smiled calmly: "If I'm not mistaken, this child's first soul spirit is the Douluo Continent's strongest lightning-attribute soul spirit, the Thunderclap Hell Vine."
Nan Liujing raised an eyebrow. He hadn't released his soul spirit during the competition, yet the other party had easily guessed it.
Yu Guanzhi continued, "In terms of explosive power, the Thunderclap Hell Vine is sufficient. Fusing with other soul spirits with astonishing explosive power isn't too necessary. And as a Tool Spirit Master, one is inherently hard-pressed to compare with Beast Spirit Masters in terms of physical strength. Although your Spirit Transfer Pagoda possesses resources to enhance physical strength, and it can be seen from these few matches that this child's physique won't be weak, the further one goes, no matter how many resources there are, the improvement is ultimately limited, and the choice of soul spirit becomes paramount."
"Coincidentally, the No. 5 mutated soul spirit is very suitable for this child."
Qiangu Qingfeng said in surprise, "You're willing to let it go? We used to be willing to trade top-tier ten-thousand-year soul spirits for it, but you always explicitly refused."
Yu Guanzhi said helplessly, "Times have changed. This soul spirit has been in our Yu family for a thousand years, and no descendant has ever been chosen by it. Rather than keeping it as a pretty ornament, it's better to give it away."
"It's a deal!"
Leng Yaozhu didn't stand on ceremony and quickly confirmed it.
Yu Guanzhi smiled: "Since the matter has been settled, we will take our leave now. We'll meet again outside the canyon tomorrow."
"I'll see you out." Qiangu Qingfeng was moved by this pleasant surprise and offered to see them all the way out.
Zhen Hua patted Nan Liujing's shoulder and also followed them out.
After the tea room became empty, Nan Liujing curiously asked Leng Yaozhu, "Teacher, what is that No. 5 soul spirit? Why are you and Grandfather so excited?"
Leng Yaozhu smiled brightly, "I'm not entirely sure of its specific name, but I only know that it is the highest-potential existence among the inherited soul spirits managed by the Yu family, with an age of roughly forty-five thousand years. Speaking of which, it's fortunate that it wasn't exchanged with us back then, otherwise we would definitely have raised the age of this soul spirit, but then, it would be difficult for you to absorb it."
Upon hearing this, Nan Liujing became even more curious.
Xia Zheng Leng smiled from the side, "Zhen Hua helped a lot this time, Yaozhu, how about I exchange a drop of Heavenly Phoenix essence blood from you for a treasure of equal value?"
Leng Yaozhu said, "You want to give it to Zhen Hua to refine his bloodline?"
"Exactly." Xia Zheng Leng nodded, "He only raised his cultivation to Titled Douluo through medicine, which made his bloodline impure, making it difficult for him to step into Super Douluo in this life. Only the legendary Immortal Herb and the Heavenly Phoenix essence blood condensed by your Leng family's ancestors before their passing can help."
"You don't need to exchange for it. I'll find time to give it to Liu Jing and have him give it to Zhen Hua," Leng Yaozhu said generously.
"Thank you." Xia Zheng Leng said with a smile. One must know, Heavenly Phoenix essence blood was something priceless. If one had to say, the value of a single drop was roughly equivalent to an ordinary ten-thousand-year soul spirit, extremely precious. At the very least, only a level ninety-eight Super Douluo could condense it, and at most, only one drop.
Inside a luxurious villa in Mingdu's wealthy district.
"Grandfather, Grandfather, he…"
Qiangu Zhangting rushed over, wanting to complain to his most doting Grandfather the moment he entered.
"Sit first." Qiangu Dongfeng glanced at him.
His Grandfather's authority was still considerable, and Qiangu Zhangting obediently sat on a sofa to the side.
Qiangu Dongfeng said in a deep voice, "No one can change what the Old Man has decided. After the Federal Grand Competition ends, you must be prepared to report to the Blood God Legion at any time."
Upon hearing this, Qiangu Zhangting became restless, his face revealing anxiety.
He, of course, knew about the Blood God Legion; it was a closed World. Once inside, unless his military rank was high enough, he would have no opportunity for outside leave.
Staying in Shrek City was different; there were plenty of women waiting for his favor. Why should he go to that desolate place and stare at a bunch of big men all day?
"Bang."
Qiangu Dongfeng saw the anxiety on his grandson's face and was immediately filled with rage. He slammed his palm on the tea table, and the entire tea table instantly shattered into pieces. The terrifying pressure made the entire villa tremble slightly.
"Grandfather!" Qiangu Zhangting's heart trembled, and he shrank his neck like a quail.
Qiangu Dongfeng, furious at his grandson's lack of progress, scolded, "I spoiled you! Even now, you're still thinking about those lewd matters. Will you die without women?"
"You are right to scold me, this grandson was wrong." Qiangu Zhangting could feel that his Grandfather was truly angry, and he admitted his mistake with trepidation.
After venting his anger, Qiangu Dongfeng took a deep breath to calm himself down and said in a deep voice, "There are people from our Spirit Transfer Pagoda in the Blood God Legion. After you go in, Grandfather will try his best to have them take care of you. Remember, the reason your Grandfather wants you to go there is nothing more than a test. If you don't perform well, the position of the next Spirit Transfer Pagoda Spokesperson will definitely have nothing to do with you."
Qiangu Zhangting's eyes turned cold. "Is it because of that Nan Liujing?"
"That's right."
Qiangu Dongfeng's eyes also showed a hint of killing intent.
He had initially thought that Nan Liujing, as his elder brother's Grandson, could perfectly serve as an assistant to his own grandson. Moreover, he was also Leng Yaozhu's disciple, which would allow their Qiangu Family to slowly devour the foundation of the Heavenly Phoenix Clan.
But who would have thought that that kid was not a loyal general at all? With a slight oversight, he would put on a yellow robe and prepare to usurp the throne.
The Old Man seemed to be sending both of them to the front lines for experience and then choosing between them, but in reality, he had already made up his mind. Now, he just had one last trace of hesitation.
Qiangu Zhangting harbored murderous intent: "Grandfather, can we find someone to…" As he spoke, he made a ruthless gesture of slitting a throat.
Qiangu Dongfeng said in a deep voice, "We cannot do that at this stage, at least not before you two go to the front lines for experience. That is absolutely forbidden."
Qiangu Zhangting fell silent.
"Hmph."
Qiangu Dongfeng suddenly let out a cold laugh, "Don't worry, the position of the next Spirit Transfer Pagoda Spokesperson can only be yours. If anyone else dares to covet it, Grandfather will definitely make him disappear from this World."
A glint of light flashed in Qiangu Zhangting's slightly narrow eyes.
Qiangu Dongfeng said, "You should rest well tonight. Tomorrow, in the adult group competition, try to earn as many points as possible. You need capital to build momentum."
"Yes." Qiangu Zhangting replied.
...
The enormous cauldron occasionally spewed out scorching spirit power flames. In the air, wisps of medicinal fragrance permeated, making one's pores feel cleansed and transparent upon smelling it.
Long Yueming's expression was normal. With both hands gently raised, the cauldron lid automatically opened, and blood-red pills shot out like shooting stars chasing the moon.
With a grab of her palm, seven fragrant pills were held in her hand.
"One for each of you." Long Yueming turned and threw them, and the seven pills flew as if recognizing their masters, hovering in front of the seven people not far away.
The seven Shrek Inner Courtyard students looked at each other. Although unwilling in their hearts, they still accepted them.
Long Yueming said indifferently, "I know what you are thinking; you will think this is cheating." As she spoke, her tone became solemn, "The Federation secretly changed the competition rules, almost openly planning to gang up on us. In that case, taking pills cannot be considered cheating."
"Remember, as long as they dare to team up, you secretly swallow the pills. After the fight starts, if you can kill, try not to just injure."
"Elder Long, isn't this not good?" Yu Han霜 hesitated slightly.
"I told you to do it, so you do it. What's with all the nonsense?" Long Yueming glared, and a terrifying pressure swept out.
At the opening ceremony, the Federation openly slapped the Academy's face. Today, during the daytime competition, Shrek Academy didn't win a single championship, and Long Yueming's heart had long been accumulating a surge of anger.
"Understood."
Yu Han霜, Yan Rong, and the others trembled and could only agree.
...
The next day, the sky was cloudless and azure, like a clear mirror.
Sun Moon Canyon is located fifty kilometers south of Mingdu.
This is a vast open-air canyon. Its extensive area, before being designated as the adult group competition venue for the Federal Grand Competition, was a place used by the Central Legion to train soldiers.
Half of the internal environment has been artificially modified, making it more suitable for combat in various conditions.
Outside the canyon, helicopters were orderly arranged. Not far away was a temporarily erected rostrum, and various media outlets were also invited, arriving early to secure their positions.
Due to the change in combat methods, all people from the Douluo Continent could basically only watch the competition through live broadcasts; they couldn't be there in person.
"They're here!"
The reporters on site became agitated. As far as their eyes could see, buses arrived one after another. Before long, all eighteen participating teams, a total of 126 contestants, were in place.
The adult group contestants, with an average age of twenty-five, were considerably more composed than the youth and junior group contestants.
But no matter how composed, it couldn't change the fact that some contestants had strained relationships.
For example, Ma Xue from the Spirit Transfer Pagoda team and Yan Rong from the Shrek Academy team. The buses of the two teams were parked next to each other, leading them to face each other when following the guide to the rostrum to listen to the Federal Speaker's speech.
"Hmph."
The two women exchanged glances, both letting out a cold snort.
Yu Han霜 naturally also saw Lei Qianjie. The two of them didn't have much animosity, but during the Inner Courtyard Grand Competition, they fought to a draw, unable to determine a victor. This had bothered them for a long time, and perhaps this Federal Grand Competition could settle their past.
The grudges of others were not Qiangu Zhangting's concern. He was very good at finding the camera. When the reporter's camera swept over, he naturally displayed a gentle smile, appearing like a refined gentleman.
It should be known that the ones walking at the front of the team must be the captains of each team. This meant that the moment the audience saw Qiangu Zhangting through the live broadcast, they understood that he was the Spirit Transfer Pagoda captain.
Thanks to Nan Liujing's domineering declaration of "I am the future!", the popularity of the Spirit Transfer Pagoda had surged to a terrifying number, making the Spirit Transfer Pagoda team extremely popular as well.
The eighteen teams stood in place. The Federal Speaker delivered a warm speech, and under the gaze of hundreds of millions of viewers, he announced the countdown to the start of the competition.
Each team entered a helicopter, and they would be sent to different areas.
At the same time, various hidden cameras within the canyon were activated. In different regions of the Continent, there were respective hosts providing detailed explanations to prevent the audience from not understanding.
Buzz buzz buzz ~
At a landing spot resembling a Gobi Desert, the seven members of the Spirit Transfer Pagoda watched the helicopter ascend and depart.
"The competition begins!"
Simultaneously, a voice echoed throughout the entire Sun Moon Canyon.
"Captain, what should we do?"
A team member, with a respectful smile on his face, asked Qiangu Zhangting.
The others also looked over, almost all deferring to Qiangu Zhangting.
Lei Qianjie and Ma Xue said nothing. They knew that Qiangu Zhangting, who was a few years younger than them, was the grandson of the current Spirit Transfer Pagoda Master. His status was noble, and his strength was equally formidable; he had seemingly just broken through to the Spirit Saint realm not long ago.
Qiangu Zhangting glanced at the Gobi Desert and said, "Do you have a map?"
"Yes, I do." Someone quickly produced a map.
Someone helped spread it out, and Qiangu Zhangting only needed to look with his eyes: "Our position is roughly in the southeast corner of Sun Moon Canyon. Before we set off, I watched the direction in which Shrek Academy and War God Hall's helicopters departed. The former is most likely in the northwest corner, and the latter is in the northern area. We won't go to these two places for now, to avoid fighting and letting others profit."
The officials clearly intended to expose the departure directions of the respective teams. This way, meticulous individuals could use this to calculate the positions of strong teams, avoiding unexpected encounters and subsequent skirmishes.
"Then how do we proceed?" A team member deliberately asked with a puzzled expression, giving Qiangu Zhangting ample opportunity to lead.
Qiangu Zhangting gave this person a deep look and said with a faint smile, "Let's head west first. Besides War God Hall and Shrek Academy, no one else will be our opponent."
After putting away the map, the group quickly advanced westward under Qiangu Zhangting's leadership.
Outside, the live broadcast was constantly changing. The eighteen teams occasionally appeared individually on the screen, or the screen would split, showing all eighteen teams simultaneously.
Almost all the contestants from every team had solemn expressions, cautiously advancing and scouting, as if they had returned to the ancient and primeval eras when Spirit Masters ventured into Spirit Beast forests.
The eyes of countless people across the Continent converged.
And the outbreak of battle was much faster than people had anticipated.
On the Spirit Transfer Pagoda's side, Qiangu Zhangting, with the help of a Qingyu Illusory Eagle Spirit Master in his team, had preemptively learned the whereabouts of a participating team from the air.
Then, by a stream, they perfectly executed an ambush, defeating the opponent while three of their members had not yet had time to release their battle armor.
It should be known that even though the lowest cultivation of the participants was Spirit Emperor, in reality, no more than thirty-five individuals possessed complete two-word battle armor.
With one battle won, the team gained twenty-one points.
On the other side, War God Hall and Shrek Academy were also rapidly harvesting points.
The other unnamed teams also quickly engaged in battle, but compared to the three top-tier strong teams, the contestants from these teams fought quite fiercely, clearly causing various environmental damages, but they failed to defeat their opponents and ultimately made a strategic retreat with regret.
The fierce melee within the canyon made the audience's blood boil.
Compared to battles in such vast environments, battles on the competition stage were simply like cricket fighting.
Having been too well-fed, the people of the Douluo Continent began to disdain their former delicacies.
One hour after the competition began, eleven complete teams and some scattered, uneliminated contestants remained.
Two hours after the competition began, nine complete teams and some scattered contestants remained.
Three hours after the competition began, six complete teams and some scattered contestants remained.
High-intensity combat greatly depleted the Spirit Masters' energy. Finally, starting after the third hour, all surviving teams chose to temporarily rest and quickly meditate to restore their spirit power.
But the Federal officials had no intention of letting the contestants have an easy time.
Swiftly, under the gaze of the dozens of survivors, super-large light screens were projected above the canyon.
They clearly displayed the points of the participating teams.
Phantom Sound Valley ranked third with fifteen points.
War God Hall and Spirit Transfer Pagoda were tied for second with sixty-three points.
At the top of the leaderboard was none other than Shrek Academy, with a high score of sixty-eight points.
This meant that they had eliminated three complete teams, as well as two scattered contestants of Spirit Emperor cultivation.
Upon seeing this number, countless people who believed in Shrek Academy cheered, and even Long Yueming and the others breathed a sigh of relief.
In the adult group competition, Shrek Academy could not afford to lose again.
"Now, we will activate the Eye of Heaven. The positions of all teams will be exposed on the sky screen for a duration of three minutes!"
A mechanical female voice suddenly sounded, cold and striking like a heavy blow.
As the words fell, under the gaze of countless people, the sky screen transformed into a topographic map of Sun Moon Canyon. Then, specks of red light appeared, marking the positions of different teams.
In an instant, all the contestants' expressions changed.
"Shrek Academy…" On the Spirit Transfer Pagoda's side, someone's eyes suddenly narrowed, excitedly saying, "Captain, they are less than eight kilometers away from us!"
Qiangu Zhangting also saw it, his eyes fixed intently on a red speck of light on the sky screen.
He was considering whether to directly attack Shrek Academy. Everything else was fine, but he was afraid of being an unwitting target for someone else.
"It's War God Hall. They're heading towards Shrek Academy." Ma Xue's sudden words startled everyone.
Qiangu Zhangting's expression shifted, and he said in a deep voice, "Everyone, follow me immediately!"
The group moved extremely fast, following the guidance of the sky screen, charging ferociously towards their target.
Outside, the audience instantly became excited.
Were the three strongest teams really going to fight?
Would it be two against one, or would they each fight their own battles?
"See that? The Federation is deliberately targeting us!"
In front of the television, Long Yueming's voice was cold.
Behind her, the two elders and Shen Yi, along with the other team leaders, all had solemn expressions.
In a one-on-one fight, Shrek Academy feared no one, but being ganged up on was another matter entirely.
"Run, hold out for these three minutes!"
As captain, Yu Han霜 immediately gave the order.
The Shrek team members didn't hesitate at all, speeding along the safe direction provided by the sky screen.
For a time, the other teams simply watched the commotion, not moving at all. They didn't even dare to think of being the unwitting target for someone else.
Not participating in this encirclement operation at least allowed them to compete for third place, with equally generous rewards. If they participated, they might even be swallowed up in the process.
Three minutes was neither long nor short. When the prompt on the light screen disappeared, the Shrek Academy members instantly breathed a sigh of relief, and then their expressions turned ugly.
The reason was simple: right where they stopped, there was a sign marking the edge of the canyon's boundary.
This meant that they could no longer run forward. They had three choices: either go left, go right, or return the way they came.
"To the right!"
Yu Han霜 immediately made her decision.
The group, who hadn't even rested for two breaths, could only continue running.
No one noticed that a nearly translucent Qingyu Illusory Eagle had silently arrived above their heads.
The Qingyu Illusory Eagle, merged with the wind, swept its sharp eyes over the rapidly moving crowd on the ground. An invisible fluctuation was carried away by the wind!