Chapter 181: Arrival at Nanjiang City! Guardian Tree!
Previously, the mechanical train needed to take detours to pick up people and avoid some dangerous Wilderness Areas.
But now, with the Blazing Sun Battle Team accompanying them, they could directly pass through some of the dangerous areas, no longer needing to detour.
Although the Blazing Sun Battle Team had also been hiding inside the train previously, in order to ambush the members of the Demon God Hall, they naturally could not reveal their whereabouts, so the train had to travel normally.
Now, there was no need to hide!
Furthermore, the mechanical train was moving at full speed; not only did they need to get the students to Nanjiang City as quickly as possible, but they also needed to rush the North Sea Spear Emperor back to Nanjiang City.
Although Flame God had said that even if the North Sea Spear Emperor were completely frozen, he would not be in any immediate life-threatening danger for a short time.
But what if?
The hour-long journey passed in the blink of an eye.
The train's speed gradually slowed down, and the scenery outside the window had undergone an earth-shattering change.
Initially, it was rolling wilderness and mountains, but now, at the end of their field of vision, a behemoth was slowly unfolding—that was the largest super giant city in the Federation's south: Nanjiang City!
It was a giant Base City supporting a population of over two hundred million; its population scale was more than sixty times that of Shanhai City, and its urban area was likely over one hundred times that of Shanhai City.
When the full view of Nanjiang City completely entered their sight, the students in the carriage instantly fell into a deathly silence.
Wow!
The next second, exclamations erupted one after another, their eyes filled with unconcealable shock.
At first, when everyone saw the general outline of Nanjiang City, they only thought that ahead was a mountain thousands of meters high, with a peak that couldn't be seen.
But who would have known that it wasn't a mountain, but the city wall of Nanjiang City, like a grey curtain spanning between heaven and earth.
The city wall stretched endlessly to the left and right, as if dividing the entire world into two.
Similarly, even if they looked up at the sky, they could only see the city wall piercing straight into the clouds, with no end in sight.
The city wall was not a monotonous grey but was cast from countless massive pieces of black iron crystal.
The surface was covered with ancient and thick defensive runes. When sunlight fell upon them, the runes shimmered with a faint golden light, revealing both an indestructible majesty and hidden, heart-palpitating power.
The foundation of the city wall went deep underground, merging with the earth. The wall surface was as smooth as a mirror, yet it bore mottled traces washed by the years. Each trace was like an imprint of history, telling the story of this giant city's experiences throughout the vicissitudes of time.
Looking from afar, the defensive fortifications on the city wall were layered. Massive energy cannons hundreds of meters long, with muzzles five or six meters wide, were faintly visible, silently demonstrating its insurmountable defensive power.
And on the other side of the wall was a world that countless people yearned for, prosperous to the extreme.
"This is Nanjiang City... It's even more spectacular than what I've seen in books or on the internet!"
A student couldn't help but mutter to himself, pressing his hand against the train window, his eyes filled with yearning and awe.
Previously in Shanhai City, the city wall in their eyes was only a little over a hundred meters high; compared to the giant wall of several thousand meters before them, it was like building blocks put together by a child.
The overwhelming sense of oppression and grandeur was something no video footage could replicate; the visual impact was so intense that it made people's hearts tremble.
On the city wall, a towering sentry tower stood every hundred meters. The spire hung the dual flags of the Federation and Southern Border, the flags fluttering loudly. One could vaguely see the soldiers stationed on the towers, their auras refined, fully displaying the vigilance and strength of Nanjiang City.
After the mechanical train entered the entrance passage of Nanjiang City, its speed slowed down, and it moved forward slowly.
The passage was formed by the enclosure of two sections of the city wall, with walls up to a thousand meters high standing on both sides, making one feel as if they were placed in a giant canyon.
Streams of people, traffic, and various types of aircraft shuttled incessantly, fully displaying the bustling vitality of the super giant city.
This was the security check required to enter every Base City.
Unlike other cities, no City Guard or soldiers were arranged for security checks here.
Traveling to the middle of the passage, a towering ancient tree stood imposingly ahead, spanning the heavens and earth, feeling even taller than the city wall, with its full appearance impossible to see.
"Could this be the Sky-Soaring Ancient Tree that has guarded Nanjiang City for thousands of years?"
Someone exclaimed.
The Sky-Soaring Ancient Tree was known as the guardian deity of Nanjiang City and had helped Nanjiang City resist many disasters.
Legend had it that it was nurtured and grown from a seed of the World Tree and had even grown into a true 'God' tree!
At this moment, they could not see the full view of the Sky-Soaring Ancient Tree, only catching a glimpse of a corner.
The dense canopy of the Sky-Soaring Ancient Tree spread out like a giant umbrella, covering the sky above the entire passage.
Countless branches hung down, one of the thickest of which was a thousand meters long, lying across the center of the passage like a giant dragon. The branches were covered in palm-sized green leaves, each leaf shimmering with a lustrous green light, emitting a special and powerful life fluctuation.
Sacred and majestic! Ancient and magnificent!
When the train approached, that thousand-meter-long branch slowly moved, and the green light of the leaves surged.
A soft yet highly penetrating green light curtain spread out from the branch, sweeping over the mechanical train like a tidal wave.
The green light penetrated the carriage walls, sweeping over each student one by one, including Jiang Yuan. When the light touched his body, it only brought a gentle warmth without any discomfort.
This green light was the special ability of the Guardian Tree, capable of accurately identifying friend from foe, including those with ulterior motives; any sinister aura or hidden objects could not escape its perception.
Jiang Yuan felt the probe of the green light and discovered that the passive counterattack effect of his Soul Suppression Technique had not been triggered.
Judging by this, it was clear that this power was well-intentioned, or its method of investigation was extremely special and did not belong to malicious intrusion, thus it would not trigger a counterattack.
A moment later, the green light slowly receded, the branches of the Guardian Tree returned to their original position, and the light on the green leaves dimmed slightly, clearly having completed the inspection without finding anything amiss.
The warning lights on both sides of the passage lit up with green light, signaling that the train could pass.
"The security check efficiency is quite fast!?"
Jiang Yuan stared at the branches of the Sky-Soaring Ancient Tree outside and couldn't help but touch his chin.
Previously, he had been wondering if passing the city defense security check would be particularly troublesome.
After all, the mechanical train was carrying tens of thousands of students and accompanying personnel.
One had to know, this was Nanjiang City, and the inspection intensity was surely ten or a hundred times stricter than in Shanhai City.
But he completely didn't expect it to be this fast.
Of course, fast did not mean simple, or that the city defense was not strict.
In this world, there weren't many methods that could deceive the Sky-Soaring Ancient Tree.
"The train will continue to move forward, heading directly to the examination venue. Please, everyone, do not get off the train..."
The mechanical train started again, not driving into the bustling urban area at the end of the passage, but following a branch track, speeding straight towards the exclusive Unified Examination venue of Nanjiang City.
Although everyone yearned for Nanjiang City and couldn't wait to explore this super giant city with a thousand-year history and a population of hundreds of millions.
However, they did not forget their identities.
They were not tourists.
They were students who had come to participate in the competition.
After arriving in Nanjiang City, the accompanying protection personnel completely relaxed.
On the contrary, the teachers and students from various major cities undoubtedly became exceptionally nervous.
After all, this assessment was also related to their future destiny.
Chapter 182: The Final Assessment Rules
Half an hour later, the train arrived at the examination site area.
When everyone got off the train, the scene before them refreshed their understanding once again.
The examination site was located in the eastern hinterland of Nanjiang City, covering an area of over tens of thousands of acres. It was enclosed by a pale golden energy barrier, upon which the exclusive mark of the Federal Unified Examination flowed, capable of both isolating external interference and monitoring the dynamics within the field in real-time.
At the center was a massive martial arts arena capable of accommodating a million people, with its ground paved with special alloys and carved with energy-absorbing runes and array patterns.
Dozens of viewing platforms and scoring towers stood around it, with crystal screens flashing at their tops, already beginning to scroll and display examinee information.
The arena was already bustling with noise, as over half a million elite talents from the various cities of the Southern Border State gathered here, truly a gathering of heroes.
Some people wore uniform school attire, sparring and testing each other in groups of three or five, their solid foundations fully displayed in their moves.
Some sat quietly alone to regulate their breathing, their energy restrained, their aura as steady as an abyss, clearly making their final adjustments to their state.
There were also local aristocratic scions from Nanjiang Citysurrounding core figures, their conversation filled with arrogance; when their gazes swept over the incoming students, their eyes were full of scrutiny and contempt.
The sharpness and vigor of the younger generation from Nanjiang City permeated the entire examination site.
Except for the local students of Nanjiang City, talents from all other cities arrived on exclusive mechanical trains, just like Jiang Yuan and his group.
At this moment, they were successively getting off their respective trains and merging into this torrent of talent.
Different styles of school uniforms and different energy auras collided with each other.
It both exuded a sense of competitive tension and showcased the vibrant vitality of the younger generation of the Federation.
The huge crystal screen displayed that there were only three hours left before the official assessment.
The officials did not arrange special resting places for the examinees, and the mechanical train that Jiang Yuan and his group traveled on did not leave either; instead, it parked in a designated area on the edge of the examination site, and the inside and outside of the carriages were temporarily designated as rest and adjustment zones.
Students either returned to the carriages to close their eyes and rest, or gathered in groups beside the trains to communicate and analyze the battle situation.
More students were studying the latest, most complete, and most detailed assessment rules.
This third stage of the Unified Examination was a level-clearing points-based competition.
They would enter a special dungeon space created by many powerful figures of the Federation.
In each round, powerful boss monsters would appear, and students must kill the monsters before they could enter the next round.
This was mainly to test the students' actual combat experience and true combat power.
After all, regardless of level or job strength, those were just surface data; only through life-and-death combat could one see a person's true strength.
The ranking of the competition mainly depended on two things.
One was the speed of clearing levels, which was the time taken to defeat the monsters; the shorter the time, the higher the point value obtained for that round.
The other was the final number of levels cleared.
Furthermore, during the level clearing, the leaderboard would publicly display students' scores and point rankings in real-time.
At the very beginning, the competition involved over five hundred thousand students from all over the Southern Border State.
After a certain stage, the top ten thousand outstanding students would be selected to enter the talent competition of the thirty-six states of the entire Federation.
"The level-clearing competition format is about the same as in previous years, except that a team competition has been added this year!"
"There are three leaderboards in total: one overall leaderboard, and the other two are the individual leaderboard and the team leaderboard!"
After Jiang Yuan understood the assessment rules, he did not feel any significant pressure.
After all, with his strength, he already had the ability to contend with high-level experts.
Participating in the freshman assessment was simply bullying people.
Even though this assessment gathered countless talents from the entire Federation.
However, Jiang Yuan was more concerned about another matter.
That was the matter of the trial secret realm that Ji Qinghan mentioned, which was not mentioned at all in the public assessment rules.
As for whether Ji Qinghan was deceiving him?
That was unlikely!
Because she shouldn't be that stupid.
Doing so would not benefit either party.
"It seems that the trial secret realm is indeed a secret known only to a very small circle!"
Jiang Yuan pondered inwardly.
"Jiang Yuan, I didn't expect there to be so many excellent people; I've already seen many students whose levels are higher than mine, and some have even reached the limit of the Second-Rank!"
Zhao Biao said in a low-key manner.
Previously in Shanhai City, he was the most talented student with the highest level besides Jiang Yuan.
But after boarding the train, although his level exceeded the vast majority of students, there were still monsters like Ding Luoling who surpassed him in level.
And after arriving at the Nanjiang City examination site, he realized that there is always someone better.
Even those local students from Nanjiang City directly revealed their levels, with levels of forty or fifty being everywhere.
There were also prodigy monsters who had reached level sixty, the same level as Jiang Yuan.
Of course, the number of such prodigy students was very small.
Jiang Yuan was not surprised by this.
After all, for ordinary students, leveling up was indeed a difficult task.
But for those students who had awakened powerful jobs or had powerful backgrounds, leveling up was actually not difficult.
What was difficult was the hurdle of Class Advancement!
However, so far the highest level was only sixty, and he hadn't seen any students exceeding level sixty!
After all, in just one month, completing the rise to level sixty and one Class Advancement was already a very fast thing.
Besides, leveling up could be fast, but Class Advancementcould not be rushed at all; one must be fully prepared to complete a perfect Class Advancement.
"Level does not represent everything!"
"The final competition is still about true combat power and actual combat experience!"
"In addition, you also have certain advantages in participating as a team!"
Jiang Yuan just said indifferently.
Even if there were some students with the same level as him, Jiang Yuan did not feel any pressure at all.
After all, even if all the students were added together, their oppressive feeling did not equal a fraction of the Myriad Beast Soul Devouring Emperor!
"This year, the enrollment quota for the Five Great Academies is the same as in previous years, with ten thousand people for each academy, but for teams, there is a guaranteed enrollment quota of five hundred!"
Jiang Yuan said. "So, if you want to enter the Five Great Academies, you must either reach the top fifty thousand on the entire Federation's overall leaderboard, or rank in the top two thousand five hundred on the team leaderboard!"
The team quota seemed small.
But in fact, it was not.
Because a team had five people.
Five hundred team enrollment spots were equivalent to recruiting two thousand five hundred students.
It immediately accounted for a quarter of the number for each academy.
Moreover, in the past, most people chose the individual competition, so the competitive pressure of the team competition was not high.
Especially top prodigies like Jiang Yuan, who took the individual route rather than the team route.
After all, the number of top prodigies with powerful jobs was already small, and forming a team with compatible jobs was even more difficult.
"Then which one do you think is easier?"
Luo Hang, who was on the side, asked.
"The team leaderboard, I guess!"
Jiang Yuan thought for a moment and then responded.
Just as he finished speaking, his heart suddenly stirred, and as if sensing something, he raised his eyes to look at the noisy crowd.
He saw a graceful and elegant figure pushing through the coming and going talented students, walking quickly towards his direction; her figure was slender, her steps were light, and she instantly attracted many gazes around her.
Chapter 183: Meeting Lin Muxue Again
Seeing this, a smile appeared on Jiang Yuan's calm face.
The person who arrived was none other than Lin Muxue.
She wore a moon-white, waist-cinching long robe, its hem embroidered with delicate green silk runes that shimmered as she walked, making her figure appear even more ethereal and elegant.
Her jet-black hair was loosely tied into a half-bun, with the remaining strands cascading down her shoulders.
Her skin was as white as snow, her features as beautiful as a painting, with a delicate nose and cherry-red lips. Her almond eyes were clear and spirited, carrying a natural charm in her gaze; she was truly a peerless beauty.
Her aura was gentle yet condensed, possessing both a young girl's tenderness and a Class Holder's sharpness, vaguely revealing a presence even more powerful than Zhao Biao and the others.
"Jiang Yuan!"
Lin Muxue walked over quickly, her almond eyes filled with the joy of reunion, and deep within them lay a long-hidden affection. Her voice was sweet and moving.
"Lin Muxue!"
Jiang Yuan looked at the girl before him, a gentle smile curling his lips as he slowly opened his arms.
A look of surprise flashed across Lin Muxue's face.
With so many people present and eyes upon them, such an intimate gesture would inevitably draw attention.
But her surprise was fleeting, replaced by overwhelming joy and bashfulness.
She threw herself into Jiang Yuan's arms without hesitation, completely ignoring the surrounding gazes.
With the beauty in his arms, Jiang Yuan naturally closed his arms, pulling the girl's soft body into his embrace.
The faint, refreshing scent of a young woman lingered at the tip of his nose, gladdening his heart.
"I missed you so much!"
Lin Muxue buried her face in Jiang Yuan's chest, her cheeks flushing red, her voice carrying a hint of soft, nasal sweetness.
"I missed you too!"
Jiang Yuan felt a warmth in his heart and couldn't help but tighten his arms, holding her even closer.
The two shared a moment of tenderness. Zhao Biao and the others tactfully refrained from interrupting, stepping aside with envious looks.
Back when they were studying at Shanhai No. 1 High School, Jiang Yuan and Lin Muxue were an envied pair of top students, a perfect match of talent and beauty.
Now that both had grown into powerful Class Holders with boundless futures, such a bond was even more precious.
But there were always tactless people to break the warmth.
Several figures walked straight through the crowd. Unlike the students from other cities, these individuals exuded a strong air of noble offspring.
Their expressions were arrogant, and as their gazes swept over the surroundings, they carried a natural sense of condescending superiority.
They were elite students local to Southern Border, always harboring pride against outsiders and considering themselves superior.
"Lin Muxue, is this your friend from Shanhai City?"
"Why not introduce us?"
The speaker was a girl in a blue dress. Faint rune fluctuations flowed over her dress, and she was beautiful enough to be considered a school beauty.
Two exquisite Runic Cannons hung at her waist. The cannons were silver-blue, their surfaces carved with complex attack runes. Though delicate in shape, they emitted a powerful energy aura, clearly being high-quality equipment.
Three extraordinary-looking boys followed Su Yutong, their auras condensed and their equipment refined.
On the left was a Blade-Shield Warrior wearing heavy Dark Iron Armor. The armor was covered with layers of defensive runes, and the shoulder pads were carved with fierce beast-head patterns. He held a Broad-bladed War Saber and a Heavy Round Shield. The saber's blade glinted coldly, and the shield was engraved with the words 'Zhenyue', showing his steady bravery.
In the middle was an Armored Assassin dressed in black tight-fitting gear suitable for agile movement. Two poisoned short blades were tucked at his waist, their tips glowing with a faint green light. A mask covered most of his face, leaving only a pair of sharp, hawk-like eyes. His aura was restrained, exuding a deadly gloom.
On the right was a Robed Priest wearing a white priest's robe with gold trim, embroidered with holy cross patterns. He held a Gilded Scepter topped with a translucent Healing Crystal, surrounded by a gentle aura of holy light.
Yet, the look he gave Jiang Yuan was tinged with contempt.
None of the four looked pleased, especially the Blade-Shield Warrior, whose gaze locked onto Jiang Yuan like a torch. His ill-will and hostility were undisguised, falling on Jiang Yuan as if they were tangible.
Jiang Yuan understood clearly; he was all too familiar with this kind of hostility.
He had felt it from many people, especially when he was with Lin Muxue.
Back when Zhou Luochen had sent assassins to kill him, he had that same undisguised jealousy and enmity in his eyes.
Clearly, this Blade-Shield Warrior was likely dissatisfied with him because Lin Muxue had thrown herself into his arms.
After all, with Lin Muxue's peerless beauty, she would have a large crowd of admirers wherever she went.
Jiang Yuan didn't care at all, even completely ignoring his 'rival's' murderous gaze.
"Yutong, this is my classmate from Shanhai No. 1 High School, Jiang Yuan!"
Sensing the wrong atmosphere, Lin Muxue lifted her head from Jiang Yuan's chest, her bashfulness fading slightly as she introduced him to the girl in the blue dress. "And he's also my boyfriend."
When she said 'boyfriend', Lin Muxue's grip on Jiang Yuan's hand tightened slightly.
The others present reacted with surprise; they hadn't expected Lin Muxue to be so brave as to publicly declare Jiang Yuan as her boyfriend.
Especially that Blade-Shield Warrior; the jealousy and killing intent in his eyes were now completely undisguised as he stared at Jiang Yuan's face, as if asking what right this pretty boy had to be Lin Muxue's boyfriend.
"These are my teammates!"
Lin Muxue introduced the others gracefully. "They are all friends I met in Nanjiang City."
The girl is Su Yutong.
Among the three boys, the one dressed as an assassin is Cai Zonghan, and the Robed Priest is named Wu Feng.
The last one, the Blade-Shield Warrior, is named Si Muyuan.
All of them are locals of Southern Border.
It's worth mentioning that Si Muyuan comes from the Si Family of Southern Border.
He is from the same family as the previous Scroll Painter, Si Junyao.
"And these people are?"
Jiang Yuan released his hands from Lin Muxue's waist, letting her leave his warm embrace.
However, as if declaring his sovereignty, he directly took Lin Muxue's right hand.
"They are my teammates!"
Lin Muxue was a bit bashful and slightly embarrassed.
"Teammates?"
Jiang Yuan was momentarily stunned, but he quickly realized. "You chose the team competition?"
In his view, Lin Muxue had awakened as an Azure Phoenix Contract Envoy, and her second class was Mind-Pivot Occultist. Both classes were not only Epic-grade but also among the top-tier of Epic-grades.
With her individual strength, getting into one of the Five Great Academies should have been no problem.
He hadn't expected her to choose the team assessment, just like Zhao Biao and the others.
"Yes, because of some special reasons..."
Lin Muxue was about to explain.
But just then, Su Yutong interrupted her.
"So it's you. Lin Muxue talks about you every day, saying how strong you are, praising you to the heavens as if you're one of a kind in the world."
"I just wonder if a genius from Shanhai City can hold his ground in our Southern Border testing grounds?"
Su Yutong sized Jiang Yuan up, a playful smile curling her lips.
Chapter 184: Jealousy and Rivalry
When mentioning Shanhai City, his tone involuntarily deepened a little.
The so-called geniuses from small cities were everywhere in Nanjiang City and completely unremarkable.
In Nanjiang City, there was no shortage of geniuses of all kinds.
Just like today, talented students from all the cities in the Southern Border Province had gathered here. Yet, once these so-called geniuses arrived at the examination grounds, they all became extremely low-key, just like Zhao Biao.
Here, they didn't dare to call themselves geniuses at all.
Only the top-tier group in Nanjiang City had that qualification.
"What geniuses? The most outstanding genius in Shanhai City is Lin Muxue!"
"Aside from Lin Muxue, no other Epic Class Professional has been awakened!"
"As far as I know, you only awakened a common class, right!"
"Furthermore, Lin Muxue isn't someone just any Tom, Dick, or Harry can be worthy of. Without powerful strength, you don't even have the qualification to stand by her side."
The Blade-Shield Warrior Si Muyuan stepped forward, his dark iron armor clanking with a dull sound as he stared at Jiang Yuan, his tone icy.
As a suitor of Lin Muxue, he had naturally learned about—or rather, investigated—Lin Muxue's past, and thus knew of Jiang Yuan's existence.
But he didn't care about Jiang Yuan.
Because Jiang Yuan was both an ordinary person and had an ordinary class.
He was a person from a completely different world than Lin Muxue.
And Si Muyuan believed that only he was worthy of Lin Muxue.
Or rather, Lin Muxue was qualified to be his woman.
The Si Family, where Si Muyuan belonged, was not weak in Nanjiang City.
As a descendant of the Si Family, in terms of status, he was naturally much higher than Lin Muxue, who came from a small city family.
However, the class he first awakened was only an Epic Class. While this was extremely outstanding in Shanhai City, it was not considered top-tier in Nanjiang City.
Even within the Si Family, he couldn't compare to those core descendants who had awakened a legendary-grade class.
Therefore, the resources he could be allocated from the family were actually very limited, and he could not receive unconditional and unlimited support and cultivation from the family.
If he wanted to improve his weight and status within the family, besides becoming stronger himself, he needed to gain support from external forces.
The most obvious way was through a partner.
And the best partner in life was naturally an outstanding girl of the same age from one's youth, someone whose background was well-known.
The reason he set his sights on Lin Muxue...
The first reason was that Lin Muxue's class was very strong. Although it was an Epic Class, it was not inferior to some legendary-grade classes, which meant she had higher development potential.
Furthermore, among the locals in Nanjiang City, girls who awakened a legendary-grade class naturally prioritized boys who also had a legendary-grade class as their partners; it was impossible for them to choose Si Muyuan, who only had an Epic Class.
Therefore, in terms of career development, Lin Muxue was his optimal choice.
The second reason was from the perspective of family background.
Among girls of the same age whose families were well-matched with his, there weren't many options for him.
Girls who possessed an Epic Class like him were very difficult to pursue and might not necessarily fancy him, such as Su Yutong in their team.
Even if they did end up together, he might not necessarily be the dominant party in the marriage.
However, the relationship between the Si Family and the Lin family was not simple. Although it was not a master-servant relationship, the Si Family stood in a high position, while the Lin family belonged to a lower one.
If they were to get together, Si Muyuan could rely on the power of the Si Family to make Lin Muxue submit to him. The Lin family would become Si Muyuan's backing and provide cultivation resources for him, their son-in-law.
The Si Family was very supportive of this behavior of absorbing outstanding external females, as this was how they could keep the family prosperous.
The third point was that Lin Muxue was naturally a peerless beauty in terms of external conditions like figure and appearance, even three parts prettier than Su Yutong.
There were not many men who wouldn't be moved upon seeing Lin Muxue.
Precisely because of this, Si Muyuan had long since regarded Lin Muxue as his other half.
And being able to form a team with Lin Muxue this time was a qualification he had earned only after working hard to defeat a group of covetous "rivals."
He had thought that Lin Muxue was already in the bag, his own woman.
He hadn't expected that this Jiang Yuan would still be unwilling to give up.
A mere toad, actually wanting to eat the meat of a blue phoenix?
"Which one by the roadside are you? Whether I have the qualification or not, what does it have to do with you?"
Jiang Yuan retorted coldly.
He could feel Si Muyuan's jealousy, resentment, and anger.
However, he was not someone who could be pushed around.
Back when he had just awakened, it was fine since he had no strength and no background.
But now, if he were still to be mocked by his peers and continue to swallow his anger, wouldn't his rise in strength have been for nothing!
Moreover, that was not Jiang Yuan's personality.
"You... Hmph, as expected, people from small places are just arrogant, truly not knowing the immensity of heaven and earth!"
Si Muyuan stepped forward, closing in once more, attempting to use his oppressive presence to make Jiang Yuan submit and bow his head.
"Si Muyuan, what do you want to do!"
Lin Muxue blocked the way in front of Jiang Yuan, furious.
"What, only dare to hide behind a woman?"
Si Muyuan's expression shifted slightly, but he did not retreat in the slightest.
"This is a matter between us men!"
Jiang Yuan pulled Lin Muxue behind him, turned his head to look at Si Muyuan, and couldn't help but reveal a cold sneer. "What, want to fight? I'd be happy to oblige!"
"Come, watch how I teach you a lesson, you bumpkin from a small place!"
Si Muyuan slowly raised the war blade in his hand, fighting spirit suddenly appearing in his eyes.
"Just because you were born with a bit of good luck, you've become superior? I'd like to see just how powerful you noble local turtle are!"
A crimson-gold flame ignited on Jiang Yuan's body, and a terrifying aura surged out from him, pressing down upon Si Muyuan and the others.
Facing such terrifying pressure, Si Muyuan and the others couldn't help but be shocked, revealing expressions of astonishment.
They never expected that Jiang Yuan, who was just a minor figure from a small place, would have such a strong aura.
Could it be that his strength had even surpassed theirs?
"This is a critical examination area. Private fighting is strictly prohibited. Violators will have their examination qualifications revoked, and serious offenders will be sent to the borderlands for exile!"
A team of law enforcement patrol officers wearing standard-issue equipment had long been observing the dispute occurring here.
When both sides were about to clash, the leader of the squad immediately stood out and issued a warning to them.
At the same time, they also took a stance; if Jiang Yuan and the other continued to fight, they would definitely intervene to stop it, avoiding any impact on other students.
"Muyuan, let it go. Don't lose your competition qualification!"
Su Yutong quickly stood out to say.
Previously, regarding the war of words between Jiang Yuanand the other, she neither participated nor stopped them, acting as if she were just watching a show.
However, as soon as she heard that if both sides fought, they would be punished by having their competition qualifications stripped, she stood out immediately.
After all, regardless of who won or lost, it didn't have much to do with her personally.
But if Si Muyuan lost his competition qualification, she would definitely be affected.
After all, they had already registered as a team; if they lost a member right before the competition, it would definitely affect their examination results.
"Hmph, I'll let you off this time!"
A look of struggle appeared on Si Muyuan's face, and after hesitating for a few seconds, he put down his war blade.
Even as a descendant of the Si Family, he was not above the examination rules.
After all, behind this was Nanjiang City, and the Federation!
"Jiang Yuan, don't be impulsive. The competition is what's important!"
Lin Muxue gently pulled Jiang Yuan's hand and said again, "It's not worth it!"
"Alright, I'll listen to my girlfriend!"
Jiang Yuan turned his head to smile slightly at Lin Muxue, reached out, and pinched her rosy little cheek.
This public display of affection made many people grit their teeth as they watched.
In this fight for jealousy and rivalry, although Jiang Yuan did not win by relying on strength, he won completely over the other side through Lin Muxue's favoritism.
It was both jealous-inducing and even more enviable.
Chapter 185 Star Spirit Ruins
"In this world, strength is what ultimately speaks. I'd like to see what kind of results you can achieve in the Unified Examination!"
Si Muyuan's face was black as coal as he continued to mock.
"Why is there constant barking?"
Jiang Yuan took Lin Muxue's hand again and walked to the other side. "It really ruins the mood."
"You... Hmph!"
Being directly ignored, Si Muyuan's face alternated between black and red. Furious but with nowhere to vent, he let out a cold snort and ducked into the crowd.
As for the other two boys in the group, they naturally couldn't stay behind and left with Si Muyuan.
"Lin Muxue, we still need to discuss our strategy for clearing the level!"
Su Yutong couldn't help but sigh softly.
Their team, which had been fine, had finally developed some rapport and coordination after training for this period.
But because of Jiang Yuan's actions, a rift had formed within the team, which was truly a headache.
If she had known, Su Yutong would have stopped Lin Muxue from coming to see her little lover!
"Yutong, I'll chat with Jiang Yuan for a while and be back soon!"
Lin Muxue hesitated for a moment before responding.
"Alright, but be quick."
Su Yutong thought about it and decided not to continue persuading her, feeling that further advice would only be counterproductive.
After spending time together, she knew that Lin Muxuewas not as weak as she appeared on the surface, but rather possessed strong opinions and ideas.
"Why did you choose to participate in the team competition?"
After Jiang Yuan and Lin Muxue finished their intimate reminiscing, they returned to the previous topic.
This time, no one was tactless enough to interrupt them.
"This matter starts from when I arrived in Nanjiang City."
"Didn't I become a student of a mentor at Nanjiang Academy through the Si Family's connections?"
"Actually, it was joining a Genius Seed Class..."
Lin Muxue said slowly.
The Genius Seed Class was created by Nanjiang Academyto recruit and cultivate students with good talent in advance.
Of course, it also required signing some harsh intention contracts.
The benefit is that one can enjoy the Class Holderresources of Nanjiang Academy in advance and receive personal guidance from a mentor.
For example, Lin Muxue's Second-Rank Mind-Pivot Occultist class, although it came from that mentor's inheritance, actually belongs to the resources of Nanjiang Academy.
Moreover, the Second-Rank Mind-Pivot Occultist class, like the Qingluan Contractor, is a top-tier Epic Class. The Class Change Voucher is extremely difficult to obtain. At the very least, with the ability of the Shanhai City Lin Family, it would be difficult to help Lin Muxue advance to a Mind-Pivot Occultist class during her Second-Rank; it would only be possible after several more transfers!
Furthermore, although this class comes from that mentor, a significant price must be paid to receive the inheritance.
After all, a class inheritance isn't something that can be passed on whenever one wants, nor can it be passed to as many people as one pleases.
This is equivalent to passing one's own abilities to another person.
Some special class inheritances even require the inheritor to sacrifice their own lifespan, strength, and so on as the price.
Even within Nanjiang Academy, the Mind-Pivot Occultistclass is an extremely precious class inheritance, so it naturally cannot be taught casually.
By the way, the Genius Seed Class that Lin Muxue joined has more than one mentor.
But the mentor who provided the class inheritance is from the Jun Family.
Precisely because of this, Si Muyuan had the opportunity to approach and pursue Lin Muxue.
Of course, this statement isn't entirely accurate.
Before Jiang Yuan appeared, Si Muyuan didn't feel any sense of crisis, nor did he intentionally pursue her; instead, he kept showing off his charm and cultivating their relationship, wanting Lin Muxue to fall in love with him first.
After all, he always felt that given his conditions, Lin Muxue should be the one to actively 'pursue' him; that was the correct way to do things.
As for joining the Genius Seed Class, there are benefits, but naturally, there are also drawbacks.
The contract Lin Muxue signed has great binding power.
If Lin Muxue's scores in the Unified Examination meet the standards for entering the Five Great Academies, she can only join Nanjiang Academy and cannot choose other schools.
If her Unified Examination results are not ideal and do not meet the recruitment standards of the Five Great Academies, she will need to pay a huge, extremely high penalty fee, and she might end up working for Nanjiang Academy for the rest of her life.
Of course, this probability is very low, after all, before entering the Genius Seed Class, one has already gone through several rounds of strict screening.
Even without entering the Genius Seed Class, there is a high probability of getting into the Five Great Academies.
Now that she is receiving advanced training from Nanjiang Academy, it is basically a sure thing.
Unless she performs extremely poorly during the examination.
Additionally, she needs to follow some arrangements made by the academy and the mentor.
This time, Lin Muxue participating in the Unified Examination as a team was arranged by her mentor.
Of course, since it is a team, Lin Muxue's teammates are all similar in strength to her, and their initial awakened classes were all Epic Class!
Their Second-Rank classes are also some very powerful Epic Classes!
"These conditions are quite harsh!"
Jiang Yuan fully understood Lin Muxue's situation.
After all, having enjoyed their resources, one must assume the corresponding obligations.
This is the same principle as Lin Muxue being in the Lin Family, enjoying the protection and resources of the Lin Family, which means bearing the responsibility of revitalizing the Lin Family, and after becoming strong, giving back to the Lin Family to ensure the family's long-term prosperity.
Unless one wants to disregard the Lin Family's upbringing and be an ingrate.
But resisting the Lin Family is easy, while opposing Nanjiang Academy is as difficult as ascending to heaven.
And if Lin Muxue did not enjoy the benefits of the Genius Seed Class, her growth speed would definitely be slower.
After all, not everyone is like Jiang Yuan, with a system by their side!
"Actually, there are quite a few benefits to participating as a team!"
When she said this, Lin Muxue's expression became serious.
Before participating in the examination, one is not considered a true student of Nanjiang Academy.
Therefore, one can only join the Genius Seed Class in advance and sign some intention contracts with Nanjiang Academy.
As for the Genius Seed Class, it recruits students with good 'talent' to enjoy Nanjiang Academy's Class Holderresources in advance.
"What benefits?"
Jiang Yuan asked.
"The competition pressure in a team is lower!"
"A team like ours, where everyone is Epic Class, is already considered among the top tier of team participants!"
"But if we were participating individually, we would have no way of competing against those Legendary Class Class Holders!"
Saying this, Lin Muxue couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy and helplessness.
This was exactly the same expression as the students on the train when they arrived at the examination site and saw countless talented students.
"And wanting to catch up to those true prodigies, relying on hard work alone is useless!"
"After all, the sweat they shed in their efforts is no less than ours!"
"So, many times, resources determine everything!"
Speaking of this, Lin Muxue couldn't help but change the subject. "Have you heard of the 'Star Spirit Ruins' secret realm?"
"Star Spirit Ruins?"
Jiang Yuan raised an eyebrow; he hadn't heard of this name.
However, he had a premonition that this secret realm was very important and likely the same one Ji Qinghan had mentioned before.
"The Star Spirit Ruins is a secret realm formed from the demise and shattering of a racial civilization world. It was once home to a race of creatures called'Star Spirits', and it contains many special treasures called spirit crystals!"
"There are many types of spirit crystals, divided into talent spirit crystal, Heaven-Mending Spirit Crystals, Secret Treasure Spirit Crystals, Inheritance Spirit Crystals, and so on... Many Class Holders who want to overtake others and surpass those top prodigies in strength can only rely on various spirit crystals!"
Lin Muxue did not hide anything from Jiang Yuan and told him directly about the origin of the Star Spirit Ruins and the functions of the various spirit crystals.
Chapter 186: Secret Realm Slots
You have to realize that this information comes from the genius seed class of the Nanjiang Academy; ordinary people haven't even heard of it.
This is also the reason why many Class Holders fight desperately to join top-tier academies, because they control the most elite resources in this world!
Channel information is one type of resource!
Class inheritances are another type of resource!
dungeons and Secret Realms are also extremely important resources!
Even with advanced internet access where many things can be searched online, things of true value are not spread casually.
Especially when some important information is controlled by a very small number of people who have set up massive information barriers, ordinary people don't even have the qualifications to peek at them.
"After every Unified Examination, the Star Spirit Ruins will open, but the slots for entry are extremely limited—there are only ten thousand in total!"
"Sounds like a lot, right? But that's the total number of slots for the entire Federation!"
"You have to realize, just the students participating in the third stage alone number nearly twenty million across the entire Federation!"
Lin Muxue sighed with emotion.
The Star Spirit Ruins Secret Realm should be considered the top-tier resource that student Class Holders can access!
And precisely because they are students, the Federation opens up eligibility for them to enter in order to cultivate the new generation of Class Holders.
Otherwise, even some powerful Class Holders wouldn't have the qualifications.
"Ten thousand slots?"
"That's fewer slots than the annual intake of the Five Great Academies!" Jiang Yuan pondered for a moment.
He didn't feel any pressure regarding this.
On the contrary, for Lin Muxue, despite possessing dual Epic Class, whether she could secure one of those ten thousand slots was still a bit uncertain.
After all, those participating in the competition were the geniuses of the entire Federation!
Even if one is qualified to join the Nanjiang Academy, it doesn't necessarily mean they are qualified to obtain a slot to enter the Star Spirit Ruins Secret Realm.
"That's right!"
"And these slots don't all belong to the Five Great Academies!"
"Of these ten thousand Federation slots, the Five Great Academies get one thousand slots each, occupying half of the total!"
"The other five thousand slots are distributed to the Top 100 Federation universities, with each university getting fifty slots!" Lin Muxue continued.
"I see."
"So that means even if one's ranking reaches the top ten thousand in the Unified Examination, they might not be qualified to enter the Star Spirit Ruins!" Jiang Yuansuddenly realized.
No wonder this point wasn't mentioned at all in the newly released Unified Examination rules.
Because the selection of personnel is definitely merit-based, but the right of allocation lies in the hands of the various schools.
Even for the Nanjiang Academy, which recruits ten thousand new students every year, only one thousand of them are truly qualified to enter the Star Spirit Ruins.
If someone ranks in the top ten thousand or even five thousand in the overall Unified Examination, but chooses the Nanjiang Academy or one of the other schools, and their performance in the internal new student ranking falls outside the top one thousand, they still lack the qualification.
Additionally, there is a hidden benefit to doing this, which is achieving a relative distribution of top-tier talent.
It prevents all the top geniuses from being recruited by the Five Great Academies, which would cause other universities to completely lose their competitiveness and gradually decline.
Therefore, there are naturally students who choose the 'Top 100 Federation' universities in order to obtain the slots for the Star Spirit Ruins.
Besides, although the resources of the Five Great Academies are abundant, they are not infinite; they can only focus on cultivating the most outstanding geniuses and cannot take care of everyone. Some relatively 'mediocre' geniuses will make the choice of 'better to be the head of a chicken than the tail of a phoenix.'
"That is indeed the case!"
"And this year, a team competition format has been added. Not only is there preferential treatment in the Unified Examination, but in the subsequent cultivation by the academies, they will also focus on providing resources for cultivation!"
"This includes the slots to enter the Star Spirit Ruins Secret Realm," Lin Muxue said.
With Lin Muxue's personal strength, getting into the Nanjiang Academy shouldn't be difficult. But wanting to compete for one of those one thousand slots for the Star Spirit Ruins is extremely difficult.
After all, what she has to face are some truly Legendary-grade geniuses, or even more formidable existences.
Furthermore, if they can enter the Star Spirit Ruins, they would have more advantages as a team than as individuals.
In fact, this is the Federation's way of cultivating Class Holders, shifting from strengthening individual power to focusing on team-based Class Holder battle teams!
Previously, the Federation had also been cultivating Class Holder battle teams, but the effort wasn't that great.
But in recent years, powerful battle teams like the Divine Wing Battle Team and the Blazing Sun Battle Team have become more and more numerous, with the Federation government investing a large amount of resources behind them for cultivation.
In battle, a five-person battle team with perfect class composition and tacit cooperation can fight against ten Class Holders of the same rank.
And as the invasion of the Abyss becomes increasingly severe, the strength of the Abyssal Demon Race far exceeds that of ordinary Class Holders. Fighting alone is simply no match.
But Class Holder battle teams can deal with such powerful Abyssal Demon Race.
Just like the Abyssal Demonization of the Bone-Corroding Demon Lord boss that appeared outside Dongque City.
Either send high-level combat power of at least Seventh Rank to solve it. But there aren't that many high-level Class Holders, and they can't be deployed anytime and anywhere.
Or, send the Divine Wing Battle Team led by Qi Qingyang, where all team members are Sixth-Turn Class Holders!
Additionally, on the way to Nanjiang City, although the five members of the Blazing Sun Battle Team were only Seventh Rank, they still had the strength to fight against the Eighth-Rank Myriad Beast Soul Devouring Emperor.
If it were five Seventh Rank lone Class Holders, I'm afraid they wouldn't have been able to last that long; they would have been broken one by one as soon as the battle started, leading to a quick defeat.
"So, in order to enter the Star Spirit Ruins, I choose to participate as a team!" Lin Muxue looked at Jiang Yuan with a serious expression.
This was telling Jiang Yuan the reason why she was doing this.
Although Lin Muxue possessed astonishing, peerless beauty, she had never considered herself a vase or an appendage of someone else.
Instead, she had always been working hard to become stronger, becoming a powerful Class Holder.
"I will always support your choice!" Jiang Yuan understood Lin Muxue's approach. "Just like how you unwaveringly chose me just now!"
Although he had long considered Lin Muxue his woman, first and foremost, Lin Muxue was an independent person, and only secondly was she his woman.
He had never thought that once he became powerful, he would force Lin Muxue to stay at home and raise children, nor would he forbid her from finding her own way to become stronger, and he certainly wouldn't say that he forbade Lin Muxue from interacting with outsiders.
As for Si Muyuan, to him, he was just like Zhou Luochen, merely a clown not worth mentioning.
Therefore, in the conversation just now, both sides tacitly did not mention that clown-like existence.
"Thank you, Jiang Yuan!" Lin Muxue held Jiang Yuan's hand, feeling the warmth in the man's palm, her head leaning against the man's chest.
"I have to go!" After lingering for a while, Lin Muxue stood up with great reluctance.
Chapter 187: The Examination Officially Begins
"Go on!" Jiang Yuan nodded.
"You said before that we would get into the Nanjiang Academy together!"
Although Lin Muxue knew that Jiang Yuan had successfully completed his Second-Rank.
However, she only knew that Jiang Yuan had changed his class to the relatively rare Instant Cast Mage; she didn't know much about his true strength.
But she didn't ask further, afraid of discouraging Jiang Yuan.
After all, she herself was a dual top-tier Epic Class.
As for Jiang Yuan, his initial awakened class was Common, and even after his Class Advancement, it was only Elite grade.
The gap between them was not small.
Yet, even so, when facing Si Muyuan, who possessed an Epic Class and had a background that completely crushed the Lin Family, she still chose to stand by Jiang Yuanwithout hesitation.
It should be known that Jiang Yuan had never told Lin Muxue his true strength.
Even though he had once mentioned the existence of his master, the 'Flame God'.
But the Flame God was, on the surface, only a 'Seventh-Turn Magic Saint'.
He was still incomparable to the Si Family of Nanjiang City.
After all, one of the elders in the Si Family was an instructor at the Nanjiang Academy.
"Of course, I will definitely keep my promise!" Jiang Yuan's eyes revealed determination as he looked straight into the soft light in the young girl's eyes.
"Then it's a promise, we will also enter the Star Spirit Ruins together, okay?" Lin Muxue said again.
Actually, Lin Muxue was also a bit uneasy inside.
Because her starting point was so much higher than Jiang Yuan's, and she had been working very hard to become stronger, she worried that one day Jiang Yuan would not be able to keep up with her pace.
Therefore, in their previous chats, she had deliberately avoided mentioning topics related to levels or strength.
"Of course, that's great!" Jiang Yuan said with a smile.
"Then it's settled, you aren't allowed to lie to me!" Lin Muxue showed a charming, girlish expression.
"We've known each other for so long, when have I ever lied to you?" Jiang Yuan's tone was firm.
"Don't worry, my results in the Unified Examination will definitely satisfy you!"
At this point, Jiang Yuan didn't specifically reveal his level, nor did he tell Lin Muxue how powerful he was.
Because he believed that it wouldn't be long before Lin Muxue saw it with her own eyes.
"I will also achieve good results in the Unified Examinationso that I can receive key training from the academy and gain more autonomy and the right to choose. If I have the chance, I will apply to the academy to leave my current team and switch to another team or reorganize a new one!" Lin Muxue added.
"Is that okay?"
Although the previous jealousy and rivalry between Si Muyuan and Jiang Yuan didn't lead to a fight, their relationship had undoubtedly broken down.
For this reason, Lin Muxue didn't want to continue staying on the same team as Si Muyuan.
For one, it was because she really didn't like people like Si Muyuan, who always acted superior because of his status as a scion of a Southern Border noble family; it was truly detestable.
Secondly, naturally, she didn't want Jiang Yuan to misunderstand and overthink things.
After all, the team participation was already a fact, and it was difficult for Lin Muxue to change it.
Moreover, if she withdrew from the competition at the last minute, it would not only affect her own future but also require paying a large penalty fee, and at the same time, it would have a huge impact on Su Yutong and the others.
"Mm, I've said it before, I unconditionally support your choices!" Jiang Yuan gently patted Lin Muxue's head.
"Then I'm going?" Lin Muxue was a bit reluctant; having not seen each other for nearly a month, they were separating again after a hurried meeting.
"Go on!" Jiang Yuan watched Lin Muxue's beautiful figure slowly disappear into the crowd.
"It seems that even after getting into the Nanjiang Academy, if one wants to enjoy the resources and training of the Nanjiang Academy, they will be invisibly subject to certain restrictions!" Jiang Yuan fell into deep thought.
Rights and responsibilities are equal.
When enjoying rights, one must bear the corresponding responsibilities.
At the very least, ordinary students have no real choice when facing the Nanjiang Academy.
However, if Jiang Yuan demonstrated strong strength and potential, as well as corresponding value, he would be able to have more say.
It seems he must perform well in this examination and achieve an extremely excellent result.
Only then would he be able to take the initiative when negotiating with the Nanjiang Academy and fight for his own rights.
...
"The examination officially begins!"
A cold, mechanical voice suddenly resounded throughout the entire examination hall.
Suddenly, a dazzling white light descended from above the examination hall, enveloping the hundreds of thousands of students present who were holding admission passes.
The next instant, all the students were sucked into the [dungeon].
Jiang Yuan did not resist the pull of this force and similarly entered the dungeon world.
At this moment, Jiang Yuan was standing in the very center of the martial arts arena, and the surrounding environment was exactly the same as the examination hall outside.
The difference was that he was the only one in the entire dungeon.
The other students, accompanying personnel, patrol enforcers, teachers in charge of the Unified Examination, and the people on the viewing platform were all gone.
"The 1006th Federation Unified Examination, third stage, Southern Border sub-district, the examination officially begins!"
"Candidate Jiang Yuan, please note: dying in the dungeondoes not mean actual death in reality. Please give it your all..."
"During the examination, you may only use the power of your own class and the equipment you are currently wearing. You may not use external aid or power that is not your own, such as using any potions, arcane scrolls, talismans, or buff effects applied by others or in advance... Violators will be directly disqualified!"
"During the examination, the sky screen will announce your results and leaderboard ranking in real-time..."
"The monsters for the first round will appear in 59 seconds. Please prepare for battle, candidate!"
The cold voice came from the sky.
At the same time, a white light fell on Jiang Yuan, intending to clear all buff effects.
But the white light quickly disappeared, like a stone sinking into the ocean.
The result was obvious: the purification power of this white light failed to successfully clear the Thunder Shield Technique and Soul Suppression Technique effects from Jiang Yuan.
Immediately after, one white light after another descended from the sky.
Regarding this, Jiang Yuan thought for a moment and voluntarily canceled his buff effects; after that, no more white light fell.
Furthermore, Jiang Yuan discovered that his spatial backpack was in a sealed state and he could not store or retrieve items.
Fortunately, he sensed the existence of the system and found that the system had not been subjected to any restrictions, which put him at ease.
No matter how strong the rules of this dungeon, created by Federation powerhouses, might be, they could not be superior to the system!
"So it's not actual death?" Jiang Yuan murmured.
This was quite interesting.
At least, when students were taking the examination, they could devote themselves fully to the battle, going all out, without needing to worry about injury or death.
"Ten, nine, eight... three, two, one!"
The countdown in the corner of the sky screen jumped rapidly, and the cold mechanical voice broadcasted synchronously.
Swoosh!
As the voice fell, the space on the other side of the martial arts arena suddenly twisted, and thick black demonic energy surged out like a tide, carrying a pungent, fishy, rotting smell, instantly filling most of the martial arts arena.
Within the demonic energy, a huge shadow slowly appeared; it was an Abyssal Demon Wolf!
This was a very common type of Abyssal Demonizationmonster!
But common did not mean ordinary!
The Abyssal Demon Wolf was covered in dark purple scales, its body over three meters tall, even more robust than an adult elephant.
Its limbs were as thick as pillars, and its paws had five sharp demonic claws, the tips of which glinted with an eerie green cold light, as if they could easily tear through alloy!
Its head was in the shape of a wolf's head, but it had a pair of vertical pupils filled with bloodshot veins, fangs exposed more than half a foot long, and two curved black horns stood on top of its head, with faint demonic energy wreathed around them, looking ferocious and terrifying.
...
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Chapter 188: A True Prodigy and Monster
The next second, a translucent attribute panel hovered above the Abyssal Demon Wolf's head, clearly displaying its various statistics.
[Name: Abyssal Demon Wolf (Demonization Monster)]
[Race: Demon Wolf Clan]
[Level: 30 (First Tier)]
[Strength: 1250]
[Spirit: 360]
[Agility: 700]
[Constitution: 1200]
[Mana: 3600 / 3600]
[HP: 240,000 / 240,000]
[Talent: Demon Wolf Blood Armor]
[Skill: Demon Wolf Wicked Spike, Demon Claw Rend, Demonic Breath]
"It even has an attribute panel, just like in the Novice Dungeon."
Jiang Yuan raised an eyebrow, thinking to himself.
This setting was extremely friendly to candidates, allowing them to intuitively judge the monster's strength and formulate corresponding combat strategies based on their own abilities.
Although the Abyssal Demon Wolf was relatively common, its tier was only First Transfer Level 30.
However, it possessed two attributes exceeding 1,000 points.
One must know that when Jiang Yuan had just reached Level 30, his highest Spirit attribute was only 670 points.
Such attribute values were at least equivalent to a Level 30 Elite or Rare-grade Class Holder.
However, a Level 30 Abyssal Demon Wolf, a monster of this level, was not worth mentioning to him.
He had even killed a Level 210 Abyssal BOSS like the Bone-Corroding Demon Lord, let alone this mere First Tier Demonization monster.
Jiang Yuan did not act immediately; what he was considering at this moment was not how to kill it, but whether to use the system amplification and what multiplier to set for his Skill.
After all, this was only the first round; there was no need to reveal his full strength.
Roar!
Before Jiang Yuan could finish thinking, the Abyssal Demon Wolf let out a deafening roar.
Pushing off the ground with all four limbs, its massive body surged forward, wreathed in billowing demonic energy. Its thick right claw was raised high, like a sharp blade, and slashed fiercely toward Jiang Yuan's head. The wind from the claw was so sharp that it tore faint cracks in the air.
Boom!
Facing the incoming attack, Jiang Yuan did not hesitate. A fist-sized, crimson-gold fireball condensed at his fingertips.
As the flames flickered, they emitted an intense, contained heat, piercing through the air with a whistling sound as they accurately struck the Abyssal Demon Wolf's head.
Although Jiang Yuan's fireball was small, it contained spell power amplified by his 5,000+ Spirit attribute and a tenfold Skill amplification, equivalent to the power of a Second Tier fire spell. The moment it touched the demon wolf's scales, it burst open instantly!
The crimson-gold flames swept across the demon wolf's body like a prairie fire. The intense heat instantly melted the horns on its head. The dark purple scales hissed in the flames, rapidly carbonizing and shattering, while its black blood turned into black smoke upon contact with the fire.
Boom!
The Demon Wolf Blood Armor's talent ability was rendered useless under the support of Jiang Yuan's terrifying Spirit power, and the flames completely covered and scorched its entire body.
The Abyssal Demon Wolf's roar came to an abrupt end. Its massive body twitched violently in the flames, its HP plummeting like a waterfall, instantly dropping to zero.
In less than a breath's time, it was completely swallowed by the flames, turning into black ash that filled the air. As the wind blew, it dissipated without a trace, leaving only a faint scent of burning in the arena.
The mechanical voice in the sky sounded again with a cold, broadcast-like tone.
"Congratulations to candidate Jiang Yuan for successfully passing the first round. Time elapsed: 3.56 seconds."
"Do you wish to start the second round immediately, or will you automatically enter the second round in 60 seconds?"
"Congratulations to candidate Jiang Yuan, your ranking has entered the top 100 on both the Overall Ranking and the Individual Ranking!"
As the voice faded, the huge glass canopy in the center of the martial arts arena instantly refreshed. Dense information about the candidates' scores scrolled across, clearly laid out with separate displays for the Individual Ranking and the Overall Ranking.
Jiang Yuan looked up and saw his own information:
[Shanhai City, Jiang Yuan (Second-Rank), Current Points: 961, First Round Time: 3.9 seconds]
[Individual Ranking: 78th]
[Overall Ranking: 99th]
"I only ranked 78th on the Individual Ranking?"
A look of obvious surprise flashed in Jiang Yuan's eyes, and he raised an eyebrow slightly.
He had killed a Level 30 Abyssal Demon Wolf in nearly four seconds; the speed was already extremely fast.
This meant that the candidates at the top of the leaderboard had an even more astonishing killing speed and had finished the first round of battle very quickly.
What surprised him even more was the Overall Ranking, where he was barely stuck at 99th place, almost falling out of the top 100.
"It seems there really are many hidden talents here."
Jiang Yuan composed himself, his gaze locked on the top of the canopy, carefully examining the information of the candidates on the Overall Ranking.
When he saw the specific times and points, he was no longer surprised.
The top ten candidates had all finished their kills in under a second; no wonder his time of over three seconds had landed him on the edge of the top 100.
The information for the top ten on the Overall Ranking was clearly displayed, dazzling and eye-catching.
[1st Place, Nanjiang City, Zhao Hao (Second-Rank), Current Points: 999, First Round Time: 0.1 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 1st]
[2nd Place, Nanjiang City, Su Qingyuan (Second-Rank), Current Points: 997, First Round Time: 0.3 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 2nd] (Tied)
[2nd Place, Nanjiang Prefecture, Xiao Jingchen (Second-Rank), Current Points: 997, First Round Time: 0.3 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 2nd] (Tied)
[4th Place, Moyuan City, Ye Li (Second-Rank), Current Points: 994, First Round Time: 0.4 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 4th]
[5th Place, Nanjiang City, Liu Qingyan (Second-Rank), Current Points: 995, First Round Time: 0.5 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 5th]
[6th Place, Nanjiang City, Gu Yanzhi (Second-Rank), Current Points: 994] [First Round Time: 0.6 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 6th] (Tied)
[6th Place, Nanjiang City, Qin Yue (Second-Rank), Current Points: 994, First Round Time: 0.6 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 6th] (Tied)
[8th Place, Nanjiang City, Ye Yunyao (Second-Rank), Current Points: 993, First Round Time: 0.7 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 8th]
[9th Place, Nanjiang City, Ling Yao (Second-Rank), Current Points: 992, First Round Time: 0.8 seconds] [Individual Ranking: 9th]
[10th Place, Nanjiang City, Tianlong Team (Second-Rank), Current Points: 991, First Round Time: 0.9 seconds] [Team Ranking: 1st]
...
Meanwhile, above the viewing platform of the martial arts arena outside the dungeon.
A group of figures dressed in formal attire with extraordinary bearings gathered in an exclusive area, conversing in low voices.
Their gazes were all locked on the giant canopy in the center; they were the core high-level officials of Nanjiang City.
Among them were Vice Governor of Nanjiang Prefecture and Vice City Lord of Nanjiang, Lin Zhenbang; Vice Minister of Education of Nanjiang Prefecture, Zhou Mingyuan; Vice Dean of Nanjiang Academy, Chu Wenxuan, Vice Principal; Vice President of the Professional Guild, Zhao Tianlei...
Do not be fooled by the fact that they were only in deputy positions; they held the real power in Nanjiang City and even Nanjiang Prefecture, with all matters, big and small, being decided by them.
The primary officials were mostly just titular, usually not participating in the decision-making of daily affairs, and would only appear in times of major crises.
In addition, the director of the Nanjiang City Admissions Office, as well as mentors and high-level officials from various Class Holder universities, were also lined up on both sides, their expressions solemn yet filled with a hint of anticipation.
Chapter 189: Mythical Rank Professionals
At the same time, another surveillance screen was playing a battle video.
A high-spirited youth holding a spear could be seen, his expression solemn as he gazed ahead.
The moment the Abyssal Demon Wolves appeared, the black spear erupted with shocking spear intent, instantly piercing and obliterating the body of the Abyssal Demon Wolves.
The attention of everyone present was fixed on this young man.
He was truly the center of attention.
"0.1 seconds! Zhao Hao, that child, certainly didn't disappoint us!"
Vice President of the Professional Guild, Zhao Tianlei, spoke first, his tone filled with pride and his eyes betraying a smile he couldn't hide.
"The Zhao family has finally produced someone of this generation capable of carrying the banner."
As a member of the Zhao family in Nanjiang City, he knew Zhao Hao's strength better than anyone.
"This kind of speed, looking at the entire history of the Federal Unified Examination, can be considered top-tier."
Vice City Lord of Nanjiang, Lin Zhenbang, stroked his beard and nodded in approval.
"He is truly the only Mythical Rank Professionals in Nanjiang Prefecture!"
"Killing a level 30 Abyssal Demon Wolves in 0.1 seconds is simply impossible for those of the same rank; it must be his Mythic-grade Profession talent, achieving total suppression the moment he made his move."
"It's more than just suppression."
Chu Wenxuan, Vice Principal, the Vice Principal of the Nanjiang Academy, fixed his gaze on Zhao Hao's name with its rainbow border on the screen, his tone solemn yet gratified, "A Mythic-grade Profession is one in a billion. Zhao Hao is destined to be a pillar of the Federation, and the future of Nanjiang City rests entirely on his shoulders."
"I was worried he would hold back his strength, but I didn't expect him to go all out immediately."
"With this result, he not only firmly holds the first place in the Southern Border sub-competition area but will likely occupy a top spot on the overall Federal rankings, and perhaps even contend for the first place in the entire Federation."
"With Zhao Hao here, our Southern Border sub-competition area's ranking in this Unified Examination will definitely reach a new height."
Vice Minister of Education of Nanjiang Prefecture, Zhou Mingyuan, smiled and added.
"Looking at the younger generation of the entire Federation, Mythical Rank Professionals are few and far between. Zhao Hao's talent is truly extraordinary."
"To have such a performance in the first round, he will surely handle the subsequent stages with ease. The championship title is likely already without suspense."
"With him leading the way, our young geniuses in Nanjiang City will surely be more motivated."
Others did not hesitate to offer their praise.
Zhao Tianlei listened to everyone's praise, the smile on his face deepening, but he remained composed: "This child has a steady temperament and never rests on his laurels. We still need to see how he performs in the subsequent assessments."
"However, with his strength, as long as there are no accidents, taking first place in Nanjiang City is not a problem. As for first place in the Federation, the chances are also very high."
"It can be considered bringing glory to our Nanjiang City!"
Everyone nodded in succession, having already tacitly accepted Zhao Hao's qualification to win the championship, and cast their gazes back to the screen.
"President Zhao, the Zhao family has deep ties with our academy. Zhao Hao will surely stay at the Nanjiang Academy, right!"
At this moment, the Director of Admissions of the Nanjiang Academy spoke up.
"The Nanjiang Academy will definitely fully support Zhao Hao's growth and provide all resources!"
"Although Zhao Hao is young, he has his own opinions!"
"As elders, we naturally have to respect the child's choice!"
Zhao Tianlei just smiled and did not answer directly.
After all, Zhao Hao is a Mythical Rank Professionals, and an object of contention for the Five Great Academies.
Every academy had been eyeing Zhao Hao for a long time; if they could recruit him, the academy's strength would be elevated to a new level.
They had even secretly contacted the Zhao family many times and offered huge, generous terms.
But the Zhao family was still waiting for the best offer and had not made a public statement.
Therefore, it ultimately depends on which academy offers the most generous terms that can satisfy the Zhao family and Zhao Hao.
Although the Nanjiang Academy is good, its strongest point is magic-type professions.
On the contrary, the Magic Sea Academy is ranked first for melee-type professions, and the terms they offered Zhao Hao are even higher than those of the Nanjiang Academy.
"This old fox..."
Others inwardly despised Zhao Tianlei, but maintained smiles on the surface.
Saying they respect Zhao Hao's opinion is nothing more than being dissatisfied with the terms offered by the Nanjiang Academy.
The intention is to raise Zhao Hao's value through the competition among the Five Great Academies.
Everyone present, including Zhao Tianlei, are high-level figures of Nanjiang City.
They naturally hope that the only Mythical Rank Professionals will stay at the Nanjiang Academy.
Instead of being poached by other academies.
However, as to what specific terms should be given to Zhao Hao, it still depends on his performance in this assessment.
If he can achieve first place in the entire Federation, the Nanjiang Academy must keep Zhao Hao, no matter the cost.
After all, the Nanjiang Academy has a local advantage compared to the other academies.
Moreover, the Zhao family is a deep-rooted family force that has developed in Nanjiang City for many years, so they must give some face to Nanjiang City and the Nanjiang Academy.
"Let's see the students' performance first!"
At this moment, Chu Wenxuan, Vice Principal, the Vice Principal of the Nanjiang Academy, appeared indifferent, showing no joy or sorrow.
And his gaze quickly scanned the overall ranking list.
Among the rankings radiating golden and purple brilliance, he saw a special name, and a trace of surprise could not help but appear in his eyes.
...
"0.1 seconds..."
"This Nanjiang City is truly full of hidden talents!"
"They even occupy nine of the top ten spots, and the majority of the top one hundred are candidates from Nanjiang City!"
Jiang Yuan's pupils constricted slightly, and he sighed inwardly at how incredible this was.
This speed is equivalent to the Abyssal Demon Wolvesbeing instantly killed the moment they appeared, without even having the chance to release a Skill.
This not only requires having the powerful strength to kill the Abyssal Demon Wolves in seconds but also requires precisely locking onto the specific location where the Abyssal Demon Wolves appear.
Jiang Yuan had previously been hesitating whether to restrain his strength to avoid being too stunning.
But looking at it now, stunning geniuses and monsters are everywhere in the examination hall, and his speed is not even worth mentioning in front of the top tier.
"It seems I have to push myself a bit harder!"
A relieved smile curled on the corner of Jiang Yuan's mouth, and he was not disappointed by falling behind in the first round.
The assessment has just begun; the first round is just an appetizer, and the real competition is still to come.
At this moment, he noticed that besides the results and rankings, the colors of the text and borders on the list were also different.
His own information has a green border and text.
While Zhao Hao, who is first on the overall list, has a gorgeous, eye-catching rainbow luster.
The second to ninth places are all dazzling gold.
The vast majority of the top one hundred are gold, with only a very few being purple.
As for white and blue, there are none.
The only green one is Jiang Yuan.
If it were any other color, Jiang Yuan might not understand what this represented.
But he was all too familiar with these colors.
Even every Class Holder is very familiar with them.
Because the levels of Class Holders are white for Common, green for elite grade, blue for rare grade, purple for epic grade, gold for Legendary-grade, and rainbow is the legendary Mythic-grade Profession!
Jiang Yuan realized it after a little thought.
Although the specific profession information is not marked in the ranking results.
But these colors actually correspond to the students' profession level.
Chapter 190: A Special Existence
Prior to this, the highest profession rank Jiang Yuan had encountered was merely Legendary-grade.
One was Ji Qinghan of the Dongque City Ji Family, who awakened the Legendary-grade Green Lotus Sword Saint, and her Second-Rank profession was also a Legendary-grade sword-path profession.
The other was Ding Luoling, whom he had met by chance on the mechanical train previously; she possessed a long-range archery-type Legendary-grade profession, and although its specific name was unknown, her strength could not be underestimated.
Jiang Yuan quickly searched for Ding Luoling's name on the leaderboard and soon found her information at the 25th place on the individual ranking; sure enough, its border and text were the gold color of a Legendary-grade.
[31st Place, Tianhai City, Ding Luoling (Second-Rank), Current Points: 985, First Round Time Taken: 1.5 seconds] [Individual Ranking 25th Place]
Taking less than two seconds and ranking far above him once again confirmed the formidable nature of a Legendary-grade profession.
As for Ji Qinghan, she was a candidate from Dongque Cityin Dongshan Province; only by entering the all-federation assessment stage would it be possible to see her results.
Jiang Yuan also understood the core reason why his ranking in the first round had been so low.
When the Abyssal Demon Wolves appeared, he did not attack immediately.
He was even considering how many multiples of Skillamplification to use, and only counterattacked after the Abyssal Demon Wolves took the initiative to attack.
This short hesitation of a few seconds created a gap between him and the top tier.
"However, a Legendary-grade profession is not the strongest!"
"The true monster is that Mythical Rank Professionalsnamed Zhao Hao!"
Jiang Yuan was secretly shocked; he hadn't expected that a one-in-a-billion Mythical Rank Professionals would actually appear at the Nanjiang City examination site.
If Jiang Yuan wanted to compete for first place, he would definitely have to defeat this person.
"It seems I cannot be distracted any longer."
A crimson-gold flame condensed at the tips of Jiang Yuan's fingers.
Just at this moment, the mechanical voice from high above rang out suddenly, cold and urgent.
"Second round of assessment starting!"
As soon as the voice fell, the space of the martial arts arena twisted once again.
This time, the black demonic energy was thicker and more viscous than in the first round, and two massive shadows appeared in the demonic energy almost simultaneously.
They were still Abyssal Demon Wolves, but they had a bit more of a fierce aura than the individuals in the first round, and the scales around their bodies shimmered with a deeper dark purple.
Two semi-transparent attribute panels floated synchronously, and with a sweep of his gaze, Jiang Yuancaptured the core information.
The level was still thirty, but the suffix was'Second Order'.
Furthermore, there was an additional 20% to 30% tier bonus in terms of attributes!
Jiang Yuan did not look at this in detail, merely glancing slightly at the monster's attribute panel.
After all, this was an assessment, a moment of racing against time.
In the previous kill records, someone had set a 0.1-second kill record.
Jiang Yuan had long since cast aside distracting thoughts; the moment the Second Order Abyssal Demon Wolvesstabilized their forms, his gaze had already locked onto the bodies of the two monsters.
In the next instant, two fist-sized crimson-gold fireballs condensed instantly; as the flames surged, the system quietly adjusted the Fireball Spell amplification to one hundred times.
This way, he would not need to overly expose his strength, yet could ensure a one-hit kill.
"Go!"
Jiang Yuan let out a low shout, and the two fireballs, like two streaks of crimson lightning, whistled through the air as they shot toward the two Second Order Abyssal Demon Wolves respectively.
Before the fireballs touched the monsters, the high temperature had already caused the surrounding demonic energy to sizzle and dissipate; just as the Abyssal Demon Wolves were about to raise their claws and roar, the fireballs accurately struck their heads.
Boom!
Boom!
Two loud bangs erupted almost simultaneously, and the crimson-gold flames surged instantly; the bodies of the Abyssal Demon Wolves rapidly dissolved in the flames, turning into black ash that dissipated into the sky.
"Congratulations to candidate Jiang Yuan for successfully clearing the second round, time taken: 1 second."
The flames around Jiang Yuan slowly receded, leaving faint traces of fire at his fingertips, and he cast his gaze toward the sky screen.
A one-second result was a qualitative leap compared to the first round, but he was exceptionally clear-headed.
This was not the limit, and the top-ranked Zhao Haoclearly had more secretive reliance.
"They can achieve a kill within one second or even 0.1 seconds, aside from raw strength, it is likely that they knew the precise location of the monster's birth in advance."
Jiang Yuan thought to himself.
He speculated that the top geniuses local to Nanjiang Cityhad perhaps already obtained the clearance information for the assessment dungeon through family or academy channels.
They might have even undergone multiple mock exams before the actual assessment.
Only in this way could they complete the kill the moment the monster appeared.
This was also the key to why Zhao Hao and the others could always maintain crushing time records.
It was not difficult for Jiang Yuan to achieve a one-second kill of the Abyssal Demon Wolves.
After all, his strength was right there.
No matter how strong the monsters were, it was nothing more than adjusting the amplification multiplier of the Fireball Spell higher.
But the only shortcoming.
Was that the location where the monsters appeared was not fixed, but random.
He needed to wait for the monsters to appear to know their specific location.
At this time, the sky screen leaderboard had already refreshed; the top ten of the overall ranking were still firmly occupied by top geniuses, the rankings had barely changed, only points and time taken had updated:
[1st Place, Nanjiang City, Zhao Hao (Second-Rank), Current Points: 1997, Second Round Time Taken: 0.2 seconds] [Individual Ranking 1st Place]
[2nd Place, Nanjiang City, Su Qingyuan (Second-Rank), Current Points: 1993, Second Round Time Taken: 0.4 seconds] [Individual Ranking 2nd Place]
[2nd Place, Southern Border Province, Xiao Jingchen(Second-Rank), Current Points: 1992, First Round Time Taken: 0.5 seconds] [Individual Ranking 3rd Place]
[4th Place, Moyuan City, Ye Li (Second-Rank), Current Points: 1989, First Round Time Taken: 0.7 seconds] [Individual Ranking 4th Place]
[5th Place, Nanjiang City, Liu Qingyan (Second-Rank), Current Points: 1987, First Round Time Taken: 0.8 seconds] [Individual Ranking 5th Place]
...
[10th Place, Nanjiang City, Tianlong Team (Second-Rank), Current Points: 1979, First Round Time Taken: 1.2 seconds] [Team Ranking 1st Place]
Starting from the second round, the gap gradually began to appear.
The top of the leaderboard was still Zhao Hao, tied for first place in both the overall ranking and individual ranking.
Zhao Hao, who was in first place, had a kill time of only 0.2 seconds in the second round.
The two rounds added up to a total of 1997 points.
And the rankings for the top ten basically hadn't changed much.
The kill times for the others had become longer.
By the 10th place, the kill time had even exceeded one second, which was longer than Jiang Yuan's kill time.
As for Jiang Yuan, although he had a one-second kill in the second round, obtaining 990 points.
He had lagged far behind in the first round.
Added up for the two rounds, his total points were 1951.
Individual Ranking: 32nd Place.
Overall Ranking: 40th Place.
"The strength of the monsters later on will become stronger and stronger!"
"Let's maintain a one-second kill efficiency for now!"
Jiang Yuan pondered for a while; he didn't have the thought of immediately competing with Zhao Hao for first place.
After all, even many Legendary-grade professions could not achieve a kill within one second.
As a mere Elite-grade Profession, he was already an extremely special existence on the leaderboard.
At this moment, a small commotion had already stirred in the viewing area in front of the sky screen.
At the very beginning, many people's attention had been focused on Zhao Hao.
But as time passed, many people noticed that among the crowd of gold Legendary-grade names in the top one hundred on the leaderboard, a name with a green border had actually appeared?
Its ranking even surpassed some candidates with Legendary-grade professions.
Becoming the most special existence on the leaderboard!