Chapter 131: A Shocked Ye Hai! I Must Tell the Clan Leader!
After Jiangnan University conceded,
this first-round clash between top universities ended in a complete victory for Imperial Capital University.
However, today's schedule was not yet over.
According to the schedule, Imperial Capital University had another team match in the afternoon against Chuanshu University, a mid-tier team.
There was no suspense in this match.
Under Lu Li's lead, they secured victory in less than a minute.
Compared to them, Jiangnan University suffered a miserable fate.
Aside from Ye Jinghong,
all the other team members were severely injured, to the point that even the Priest couldn't keep up with the healing.
Fortunately, they had substitutes.
Otherwise, they might really have stumbled in their second match against another university!
The entire day's matches did not conclude until three in the afternoon.
To celebrate their victory over Jiangnan University,
and since Imperial Capital University had a bye tomorrow with no matches,
Song Wanqiu waved her hand generously and booked a private dining room off campus.
For once, she did not restrict their alcohol consumption.
"No matches tomorrow, so eat and drink to your heart's content tonight!"
"Long live Teacher!"
Bai Yuqing was the first to cheer.
The meal proceeded in high spirits.
After just two glasses, Bai Yuqing's cheeks were as red as apples as she clung to Lu Li's arm, repeatedly calling him Captain.
Chu Nan and Fang Yan engaged in a drinking contest until their faces were flushed red, eventually both collapsing onto the table and muttering nonsense.
Even Lin Qingyu, usually cold and aloof, drank quite a bit.
Her fair, pretty face was tinged with crimson, and her watery eyes looked so captivating that even Lu Li couldn't help but feel struck by her beauty.
Shen Chuyou sipped her drink little by little, a rare softness gracing her silver-gray eyes.
Song Wanqiu sat at the head of the table, smiling as she watched these kids, fondness practically overflowing from her eyes.
...
Meanwhile, in Jiangnan University's living quarters.
After returning to her villa, Ye Jinghong collapsed onto the sofa before she even had time to change out of her equipment.
With her eyes closed, today's two matches played on repeat in her mind.
In the battle against Imperial Capital University, Lu Li's figure lingered like an inescapable nightmare.
That terrifying speed, that perverse defense, that earth-shattering Chain Lightning...
"How can such a monster exist..."
Ye Jinghong murmured to herself, her heroic, pretty face filled with bitterness.
Since childhood, she had been an outstanding figure among the younger generation of the Ye family.
Even at Jiangnan University, where geniuses gathered like clouds, she was the undisputed captain.
Yet today, facing Lu Li, she felt an unprecedented sense of powerlessness.
It felt like standing before an insurmountable mountain.
"Imperial Capital University might really win the championship this year."
Ye Jinghong sighed, forced herself to pull it together, and walked out of the bedroom.
In the living room, the three substitutes and several lightly injured regular members had gathered.
The atmosphere was somber and stifling.
Su Tao leaned against the sofa, his chest wrapped in thick bandages, his face pale.
Although Zhou Tong was awake, his entire body was still charred black, and speaking took immense effort.
Qiao Yue couldn't even get out of bed.
Ye Jinghong looked around, took a deep breath, and said in a clear voice:
"Stop pulling long faces, everyone."
Everyone looked up at their captain.
"Losing to Imperial Capital University today isn't shameful."
Ye Jinghong said in a deep voice:
"It's not time for Jiangnan University to throw in the towel yet.
We still have the match against Modu University ahead. As long as we win that one, we still have a chance."
She then stepped into the center of the group, her spirited eyes sweeping across each of their faces:
"We are Jiangnan University, last year's runners-up!
Even if we lost to Imperial Capital University, I will never let Jiangnan University drop out of the top three on my watch!"
"Captain...!"
Su Tao's eyes grew red, and he struggled to stand up.
"Rest and recover properly."
Ye Jinghong pressed down on his shoulder, her tone softening somewhat:
"Once you all recover, we will win back the honor we lost together."
Following her words, everyone's morale was finally lifted somewhat.
Several substitute members clenched their fists, battle intent reigniting in their eyes.
After giving a few more instructions, Ye Jinghong dismissed everyone to rest.
Only when she was the sole person left in the living room did she let out a long breath.
The strength on her face quietly faded away, revealing a hint of exhaustion.
"If only I were as strong as that guy..."
Ye Jinghong shook her head with a bitter smile and turned to head back to her room.
Just as she took off her equipment, changed into casual clothes, and was preparing to wash up and sleep,
a communication chime suddenly rang out.
"Buzz—!"
Ye Jinghong picked up her phone and saw it was a call from her father.
A second later, a holographic projection lit up in the middle of the room.
In the projection, a burly man sat in a chair in a study.
He had short hair and a resolute face.
Broad-shouldered and thick-backed, his entire being exuded the battle-hardened aura of an iron-blooded soldier.
It was none other than Ye Jinghong's father, Ye Hai!
"Jinghong! How were today's matches? You won, right?"
Ye Hai chuckled and spoke in a relaxed tone, clearly brimming with confidence in his daughter.
Ye Jinghong shook her head and replied with a hint of dejection:
"We lost."
"Lost?"
Ye Hai froze slightly, the smile on his face stiffening as he asked in confusion:
"I remember you were playing Imperial Capital Universitytoday, weren't you? It wasn't Modu University, and you still lost?"
He was quite surprised.
In his memory, Imperial Capital University had been at the bottom among top universities for several years.
How had they suddenly surged this year?
"It really was Imperial Capital University."
Ye Jinghong sighed and said:
"Their lineup isn't bad this year, and what's more, an absolute monster named Lu Li appeared!"
At this point, even the proud Ye Jinghong couldn't help but sigh:
"That guy is too ridiculous. He tore through our entire Jiangnan University team all by himself."
"Lu Li?"
Ye Hai never expected in his wildest dreams to hear that name from his daughter's lips.
Furthermore, judging from his daughter's reaction, that kid seemed very strong?
But isn't Lu Li a Paladin?
For a class like Paladin, no matter how strong one is, how strong could he possibly get?
"Yeah."
Ye Jinghong nodded, and seeing that her father seemed interested in him, she added:
"I can't really explain the specifics clearly. If you want to know more, just look up the videos online."
The Beijing Ye Family wasn't closed-minded.
She merely assumed her father appreciated talent and wanted to learn more.
"Alright."
Ye Hai nodded. After chatting with his daughter for a bit longer, Ye Jinghong hung up.
With the call ended, Ye Hai, far away in the Imperial Capital, sat in his study with his brow slightly furrowed.
As her father, he knew Ye Jinghong's strength better than anyone.
She was the pride he had personally trained.
Among the younger generation of the Ye Family's sword practitioners, other than Ye Beichen, Ye Jinghong was unequivocally number one!
Yet a daughter like her was completely convinced by Lu Li?
She even evaluated him as 'too ridiculous'?
"What's going on with this Lu Li? He could even defeat Jinghong?"
Full of suspicion, Ye Hai turned on his phone.
As the commander of the Guixu Battle Group, he rarely paid attention to student competitions.
But today, he had to figure out what was really going on with Lu Li.
Soon, Ye Hai found the match recording of Imperial Capital University versus Jiangnan University on the video platform.
Not watching was fine, but taking one look instantly gave him a huge shock.
In the video, Lu Li charged at Jiangnan University's ironclad formation like a streak of golden lightning.
Immediately after, a blast of Chain Lightning erupted, golden lightning of divine punishment bouncing madly through Jiangnan University's formation!
Shield Warrior Zhou Tong's heavy shield was pierced in an instant!
All five team members—not a single one was spared!
"What the hell? You're telling me this is a Paladin?"
Ye Hai's eyes widened, his jaw dropping wide open.
Because of the matter regarding the apology gift, he had met Lu Li once.
But he never would have guessed the boy could be this violent!
"These buffs, this speed, this attack power...
It's simply fiercer than a Mage and Warrior of the same level combined!"
Shock rippled through Ye Hai's heart.
He couldn't resist pulling up the videos of Lu Li's earlier matches as well.
The more he watched, the more astonished he became.
"Support, tank, and DPS—he covers all of them by himself!
Is this bastard even human?!"
Ye Hai sucked in a breath of cold air.
He recalled when he had reported Lu Li's situation to Patriarch Ye Lingfeng, and how completely uninterested Patriarch Ye Lingfeng had been.
Back then, Patriarch Ye Lingfeng had said that a Paladin did not fit the style of the Ye Family.
But looking at it now, how was he not a fit?
This was clearly an invaluable treasure!
"No! I have to tell Big Brother about this immediately!"
Ye Hai sprang up from his seat.
Grabbing his phone, he blurred into an afterimage and darted out of the study.
No matter what, Patriarch Ye Lingfeng had to be made aware of Lu Li's true strength!
This child whom their Ye Family had cast aside was probably far, far stronger than they had ever imagined!
Chapter 132: Summon Him Back to the Clan! The Shen Sisters Come Knocking!
Beijing Ye Family, Patriarch's Training Chamber.
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng sat with his eyes half-closed, his breathing steady and as drawn-out as the hum of a blade.
Four longswords hovered around him, suddenly transforming into four streaks of frigid light at a single thought.
Moving at blinding speed with low, whistling hums, they sliced the air into crisp, sharp whispers!
Without moving his body, he controlled all four swords solely with his sword intent, honing his absolute mastery over each arc of light through extreme directional shifts!
Still as an abyss, moving like thunder—at a single thought, all four swords obeyed.
Such was the formidable control of a Fourth-Turn Sword Saint.
"Big Brother! Big Brother!"
Ye Hai's booming, rough voice suddenly came from outside, followed immediately by the training chamber door being shoved open.
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng opened his eyes, stored the four longswords into his space ring, and looked somewhat helplessly at his younger brother.
"You're already in your fifties, so why are you still so rash and impatient?"
"No, Big Brother, just listen to me!"
Ye Hai was beaming with excitement, not even bothering to sit down.
He pulled out his phone and cast a holographic projection directly into the center of the training chamber.
"Look at this!"
The projection lit up, displaying the recording of today's match between Imperial Capital University and Jiangnan University.
On screen, Lu Li was enveloped in surging golden holy light, looking like a god descending to the mortal realm.
First came a Holy Light Shield that swallowed over a thousand wind blades whole.
Immediately after, a cast of Chain Lightning blasted out, the golden lightning of divine retribution ricocheting frantically through Jiangnan University's formation.
The heavy shield of Shield Warrior Zhou Tong was pierced in an instant, sending all five members crashing to the ground.
The entire sequence was clean, crisp, and utterly devastating!
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng had originally watched rather nonchalantly.
Yet when that golden figure blew right through Jiangnan University's iron-clad formation with a single Chain Lightning,
his posture snapped upright, and his pupils shrank slightly.
"This is Lu Li?!"
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng uttered in surprise.
"Well? Not bad, right?"
Ye Hai chuckled smugly, his face full of pride.
"Even though he's a Paladin, he beat my Jinghong!
Big Brother, it's not like you don't know what kind of skill Jinghong has.
Even she was thoroughly bested and convinced. That proves this kid Lu Li has immense potential!"
"Indeed."
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng nodded, his gaze remaining locked onto the holographic projection.
In the recording, Lu Li's terrifying rush speed drew his rapt attention.
How could that possibly be the agility of a Paladin?
That was clearly the kind of footwork that only a top-tier swordsman could possess!
"Judging by his form, his agility stat is remarkably high.
What if... the battleaxe in his hands were replaced with a longsword?"
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng's eyes gleamed with interest.
Back then, even Lin Qingyu could tell that Lu Li might be stronger with a sword.
As a Fourth-Turn Sword Saint, how could he fail to see it?
The only pity was that Lu Li was a Paladin and couldn't learn the exclusive skills of swordsman classes.
However, even if he only learned universal skills,
with the combat talent this kid had displayed,
he would likely still be terrifyingly formidable.
"Besides, it seems Paladins have sword-type skills as well,"
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng pondered to himself. "Though rare, if we search, we should be able to find some."
The Ye Family had established itself on the sword for centuries, possessing a vast sea of sword technique manuals.
Naturally, among them were quite a few universal sword skills.
Even if they weren't exclusive to swordsmen, they would still benefit Lu Li tremendously.
"Big Brother, does this mean you're considering recalling him to our Ye Family?"
Hearing this, Ye Hai instantly perked up.
"Yes, that's roughly what I'm thinking."
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng nodded and mused,
"Let's wait until the exchange tournament concludes.
When the time comes, we'll have Jinghong pass along the message for us."
"Alright!"
Ye Hai grinned broadly.
"With the potential Lu Li is showing now, winning him back to the Ye Family will bring nothing but benefits to the clan."
Patriarch Ye Lingfeng had originally been unwilling to offend Jiang Yun for Lu Li's sake.
After all, Jiang Yun had the Jiang Family backing her, as well as an exceptional son like Ye Beichen.
Yet now, the potential Lu Li had displayed was more than enough reason to do so.
"Then what about Jiang Yun?"
Ye Hai suddenly recalled something and asked in a low voice,
"Although she wasn't exposed over what happened last time,
given her personality, she probably won't swallow this humiliation quietly."
"Let's see how things develop first."
A sharp glint flashed across Patriarch Ye Lingfeng's eyes.
"As long as Lu Li is willing to return to the clan, someone like Jiang Yun won't be able to stir up any major waves."
Naturally, neither he nor Ye Hai had even considered the possibility that Lu Li might refuse to return.
After all,
their Ye Family was an aristocratic profession family that had stood firm for centuries.
Any ordinary person who suddenly discovered they belonged to the Ye Family would surely be overjoyed beyond measure.
How could he possibly refuse?
...
As the night deepened, lights dotted the villa district of Modu University.
After having dinner, Lu Li and his group each returned to their respective quarters.
Shen Moli and Shen Chuyou had also returned to their villa.
Both had a slight blush on their faces from the wine.
Shen Moli was still chattering away about today's matches, remaining somewhat exhilarated.
Shen Chuyou leaned against the sofa, listening quietly.
Suddenly, Shen Chuyou's expression shifted!
She felt the demonic energy she had kept suppressed within her body
begin to churn violently without any warning!
"Xiao You, what's wrong?"
Noticing her distress, Shen Moli hurried over and asked.
"The demonic energy... I can barely suppress it."
Shen Chuyou bit her red lips tightly, her face turning somewhat pale.
"Don't panic! I still have a Holy Light Potion!"
Shen Moli swiftly retrieved a Holy Light Potion from her space ring.
The pale golden liquid inside the vial gleamed with a gentle, warm luster under the lamplight.
Shen Chuyou took the potion, tilted her head back, and drained it in a single gulp.
One second, two seconds...
Her brow only furrowed deeper and deeper.
"It's no good! I've developed a tolerance to the Holy Light Potion!"
Shen Chuyou's expression grew solemn; the potion's potency vanished into her body like a pebble dropped into an ocean.
The demonic energy that could previously be barely held at bay
only paused for a brief instant before surging violently once more!
"Then what should we do? Should I contact family and have them send a Priest over immediately?"
Shen Moli paced back and forth in a frantic daze.
If the Succubus Bloodline backfired, the consequences would be catastrophic.
Yet the potion she had brought was already of the highest grade.
If even this proved useless, she could only turn to their family for help.
"No, it hasn't come to that yet."
Shen Chuyou exhaled a long breath, a glint of resolve flashing in her silver-gray eyes as she said,
"Let's go find Lu Li first! He's a Paladin, so he'll definitely have a way.
If even he can't do it, then we'll go straight to Teacher Song!"
As a young miss of the Imperial Capital Shen Family,
even in Modu, finding a Priest to suppress her demonic energy would be an easy matter.
However, she had no wish to let outsiders learn about her Succubus Bloodline.
On the contrary, she instinctively felt that Lu Li was far more trustworthy to keep a secret.
"Lu Li?"
Shen Moli froze for a moment.
Right!
How could she have forgotten about Lu Li!
That guy's holy light was ridiculously pure,
countless times stronger than any Diamond-grade potion!
"Then let's go right now!"
Hesitating no longer, Shen Moli stepped forward to support Shen Chuyou, turning toward the door.
...
Buzz~~~
On the second floor of Lu Li's villa, he sat cross-legged on the floor of the training room.
Amidst waves of soft hums, dazzling golden holy light swirled around him, coating his entire body in a radiant golden sheen.
From a distance, that sacred, warm glow made him resemble a miniature humanoid sun.
He was utilizing this holy light to temper his body, practicing finer control over his holy light power.
At the same time, he was cultivating the S-Rank Body Refining Technique 'Holy Radiance Immortal Body'.
As an S-Rank Body Refining Technique, allocating points to it required a massive amount of skill points.
Since he lacked sufficient skill points right now, training in this manner could likewise grant improvements.
Just as he was fully focused and his holy light was surging,
Ding-dong—!
A crisp doorbell chime suddenly rang out.
"Who's coming to see me this late?"
Lu Li raised an eyebrow slightly, slowly withdrawing his radiant holy light, and walked downstairs.
He reached the doorway and pulled the door open.
Before he even saw their faces, two sets of colossal assets were the first things to greet his eyes.
Both sets were astoundingly full, straining their respective clothes until they bulged high.
Standing side by side, their heavy, substantial presence cast deep shadows under the dim light.
Lu Li's vision instinctively wavered for a split second.
Good grief.
He didn't even need to look at their faces to know the visitors were Shen Chuyou and Shen Moli.
In the entire team, only this pair of cousins possessed such scale.
Shifting his gaze upward, sure enough, he met those two familiar faces.
"Did you two need something from me?"
Lu Li looked at them, somewhat perplexed.
"There is indeed something."
Shen Chuyou took a deep breath, fighting through the discomfort in her body as she said,
"I'm feeling rather unwell, so I'd like to ask you, Captain, to give me your highest-grade holy light healing."
Chapter 133: Succubus Form! You Smell So Good!
"Oh?"
Lu Li's gaze narrowed, finally noticing that Shen Chuyou's condition was indeed somewhat off.
Her breathing was rapid, and a hint of struggle gleamed faintly in her ashen-grey eyes.
Though she was forcing herself to hold up, she couldn't hide the weakness emanating from deep within her bones.
"Come inside first then."
Lu Li nodded and welcomed the two into the living room.
"Slow Heal might not work; I need your Holy Light, Captain."
As soon as they entered the living room, before even sitting down, Shen Chuyou spoke hastily.
"Alright."
Lu Li didn't hesitate much, nor did he ask unnecessary questions.
He raised his hand, and the power of Holy Light gathered in his palm.
"Holy Light!"
Hum—!
A brilliant beam of golden light crashed down from above Shen Chuyou's head!
Formed entirely from the purest Holy Light, the beam enveloped Shen Chuyou completely.
Warm, holy, and solemn.
Golden specks of light, like countless fine stardust, slowly merged into her body.
Shen Chuyou felt the demonic energy within her body washed over by the Holy Light, immediately settling down significantly.
The feeling was like someone who had been exposed to the scorching sun for three days suddenly stepping into a cool spring.
Cool, comfortable, penetrating deep into her bones.
The feverish heat and discomfort throughout her body subsided at an extremely rapid pace.
She couldn't resist; her red lips parted slightly, letting out a soft moan.
"Nnh~"
The sound was soft and light, carrying a sense of satisfaction and languor that even she hadn't expected.
Shen Chuyou subconsciously narrowed her eyes, her entire body relaxing.
Seeing this, Shen Moli beside her was about to sigh with relief.
But right at that moment...
"Hmm? Oh no!"
Shen Chuyou's expression suddenly changed drastically!
The Holy Light entering her body had indeed suppressed the demonic energy.
But just as she thought things were turning around, the demonic energy that had been suppressed...
...acted like a provoked beast and madly retaliated!
Boom—!
A dense surge of purple demonic energy gushed violently from within her!
"I can't suppress it!"
Shen Chuyou cried out softly.
The next moment, the purple demonic energy swallowed her whole like a tide!
Lu Li's pupils shrank slightly.
He watched as Shen Chuyou's long silver-white hair, under the corruption of the demonic energy, began to flush with a subtle shade of purple starting from the roots.
Deep within her ashen-grey eyes, a tint of purple also appeared.
On both sides of the top of her head, a pair of small demon horns slowly sprouted out.
The horns were pitch-black, shining with a jade-like luster.
Far from looking ferocious, they actually added a touch of sinister charm to her.
But what attracted the most attention was still her figure.
Shen Chuyou was already well-endowed enough.
But at this moment, stimulated by the Succubus Bloodline, her plump chest noticeably expanded by another size!
The fabric across her chest was stretched to its limit, emitting a faint sound of straining under the pressure.
That heavy weight rose and fell gently with her breathing, as if ready to break free from her clothes at any second.
Behind her, a slender heart-tipped tail also quietly emerged.
The tail wagged flexibly, its heart-shaped tip seeming to possess an enchanting magic that swayed one's soul.
Her whole persona transformed from an ice-cold beauty into an enchantress radiating fatal temptation!
"Is this... a succubus?!"
Lu Li was startled in his heart.
In this world, where there were angels, there naturally were demons as well.
Demons also belonged to the God Scion, believing in the Demon God.
It was just that he hadn't expected Shen Chuyou to actually possess the Succubus Bloodline!
"Xiao You! Are you alright?!"
Shen Moli rushed forward frantically, supporting Shen Chuyou with a face full of concern.
"I'm okay."
Shen Chuyou let out a long breath.
Her chest gently rose and fell with that exhalation, creating a breathtaking wave.
Strangely enough, after she stopped suppressing the Succubus Bloodline, she actually felt much more relieved.
As if a heavy pair of shackles had been taken off.
Although the demonic energy inside her was still surging, it was no longer as violent as before.
It was just... such an appearance had ultimately been exposed in front of others.
Subconsciously, she raised her eyes to look at Lu Li.
And then, she froze.
Lu Li's eyes were exceptionally clear.
There was no panic, no disgust, and none of the strange, monster-viewing looks she had imagined.
He simply gazed at her quietly, as if looking at a rare, precious treasure.
Well, it couldn't be said there were zero distracting thoughts either.
Within that clarity, there was an unhidden trace of admiration.
Like appreciating a beautiful object, pure and open.
Shen Chuyou couldn't help but falter.
She had already prepared herself to accept strange, judging looks.
After all, a succubus...
...in the minds of most people, was practically synonymous with wantonness, evil, and vulgarity.
She had imagined countless possibilities.
Yet she had never expected Lu Li to react like this.
"Don't you find me vulgar?"
Shen Chuyou asked as if possessed.
"Vulgar?"
Lu Li was slightly stunned, then smiled:
"Why would you think that? Aren't succubi God Scions too? Besides..."
His gaze rested briefly on the small horns atop Shen Chuyou's head.
Then he looked at the heart-tipped tail swishing back and forth, his smile deepening:
"It actually looks pretty nice."
Shen Chuyou: "..."
Shen Moli was stunned as well, staring at Lu Li with her mouth agape, unable to say a word for a long while.
This guy's thought process was truly different from normal people.
"Though, Xiao You really does look pretty nice."
Shen Moli looked at Shen Chuyou and nodded in agreement.
But halfway through her sentence, her voice suddenly stopped.
Her eyes visibly grew hazy and glazed over.
Staring straight at Shen Chuyou, her fair face flushed red, and her breathing gradually grew heavy and rapid.
Immediately after, she subconsciously leaned in towards Shen Chuyou.
"Xiao You, why do I feel like you smell so good?"
She murmured, opening her arms and pulling Shen Chuyou into her embrace.
Shen Chuyou was still in her Succubus Form at this moment, and her chest, which had become even more breathtakingly full after being stimulated by her bloodline...
...collided hard with Shen Moli's equally impressive bust.
They immediately pressed against each other, squeezing out a striking, deep cleavage.
Lu Li couldn't help drawing in a sharp breath.
Wait, there's even fan service like this?
One girl was alluring and charming, the other bright and gorgeous.
At this moment, clinging tightly to one another, the visual impact was downright terrifying.
Of course, Lu Li also knew that this was Shen Chuyou's Succubus Bloodline acting up.
His Angel Bloodline represented holiness and light, while the Succubus Bloodline represented seduction and downfall.
This charm emanated unconsciously, working equally on both men and women.
It was only because the power of Holy Light inside his body was too profound that he remained unaffected.
But Shen Moli was different.
She was just a normal class holder; although her Spirit attribute was high...
...she couldn't defend against the power of seduction overflowing out of control from Shen Chuyou right now.
"Holy Light!"
Lu Li thought with a flick of his mind.
Raising his hand, a brilliant golden light beam crashed down from above Shen Moli's head.
As the Holy Light entered her body, Shen Moli shuddered, her dazed eyes instantly regaining clarity.
"What just happened to me?"
Subconsciously letting go of Shen Chuyou, she took two steps back, her face flushing red and pale in turns.
"You were charmed," Lu Li said concisely.
"What?!"
Shen Moli widened her eyes, looking at her younger cousin in disbelief.
She was a Level 29 Pharmacist, on the verge of her Second Class Advancement!
Her Intelligence attribute was scarily high!
Yet just now, she didn't even put up a shred of resistance before being charmed!
"Xiao You, your Succubus Bloodline is actually this terrifying?"
Shen Moli couldn't help lingering fear.
If this had been an enemy, wouldn't she not even know how she died?
"I can't freely control the power of seduction at my current level, so this happened,"
Shen Chuyou said somewhat dejectedly.
Her ashen-grey eyes drooped down, and the pair of small black horns on her head seemed to droop slightly along with them.
Chapter 134: Untying the Knot! Breaking Through to Level 25!
Lu Li was just about to speak when a familiar prompt suddenly sounded in his mind.
[Ding! Daily task refreshed!]
[Task: Help Shen Chuyou soothe her Succubus Bloodlineand suppress the demonic energy backlash.]
[Task Reward: Random.]
'The daily task is here!'
Lu Li's eyes lit up.
It seemed the key to today's task lay with Shen Chuyou.
With that thought in mind, he couldn't help asking:
"Did you come looking for me just to use Holy Light to suppress your Succubus Bloodline?"
"That's right." Shen Chuyou nodded.
Taking a deep breath, she explained the whole situation from beginning to end in detail.
"Tonight, I've developed a resistance to the Holy Light Potion."
Shen Moli added from the side, her pretty face full of worry:
"Xiao You didn't want to tell her family, so she came to find you."
After listening, Lu Li pondered briefly and shook his head, saying:
"Blocking is worse than channeling."
He looked at Shen Chuyou and said in a serious tone:
"My Holy Light can't work forever.
The Succubus Bloodline is inherently a part of your body.
It's your talent, not your enemy.
The more you suppress it, the fiercer its backlash will be."
During the past month or so of special training together,
Shen Chuyou had never displayed any traits of the Succubus Bloodline.
From this, it was clear just how severely she had suppressed herself.
Shen Chuyou bit her lip and whispered:
"I understand that, but I don't really want to expose my bloodline in front of the public."
"You don't want to expose your bloodline in public?"
Lu Li was slightly stunned.
Then he recalled Shen Chuyou's mention of being 'unseemly' earlier and instantly understood what she was worried about.
He couldn't help laughing softly, shook his head, and said seriously:
"When it comes down to it, a bloodline is merely a type of talent.
Do you really think having a Succubus Bloodline makes people view you as unseemly?"
"But in most people's eyes, succubi are..." Shen Chuyouhesitated.
"In this world, strength is everything."
Lu Li looked at her with an open gaze:
"The more you care about what others think, the easier it is to be shackled by those things.
Are you going to stop becoming stronger just because people say a few random words?"
He paused, emphasizing every word:
"The heart of a strong person isn't that fragile."
"This..."
Hearing this, Shen Chuyou's beautiful eyes brightened slightly.
She had previously been obsessing over how others would view her once her bloodline was exposed.
But thinking about it from Lu Li's perspective, it really did seem to be the case.
It wasn't as if she could choose whether to have the Succubus Bloodline.
Since she had it, she should turn it into her own asset.
Hiding it blindly was instead an inferior choice.
"Wait, how did that actually work?"
Shen Moli off to the side was a bit stunned.
Naturally, she had mentioned these kinds of arguments to her cousin before, and had even explained them in much greater detail than Lu Li.
But Shen Chuyou hadn't accepted it then.
Why were the exact same words so effective coming out of Lu Li's mouth?
Shen Moli couldn't help taking another look at Lu Li, her expression strange.
Could this guy actually be bewitching people?
"You're right."
Shen Chuyou let out a long breath, her gaze gradually turning firm:
"On the path to becoming a strong person, there's indeed no need to care about what others say."
She blinked her clear, large eyes, looked at Lu Li with a bit of anticipation, and whispered softly:
"In the upcoming solo competition, I'll probably unleash my Succubus Bloodline.
When the time comes, can you watch from below?"
"Of course," Lu Li grinned.
"That's good."
Shen Chuyou breathed a sigh of relief, but then hesitated a bit:
"It's just that I haven't fully mastered the Succubus Bloodline yet.
If I use too much of it, the demonic energy will backfire and affect my mind."
"Don't worry about it."
Lu Li waved his hand, his tone relaxed:
"I'll just help you stabilize the demonic energy.
Come on, I'll give you a thorough Holy Light soothing right now."
Saying that, he raised both hands.
Dazzling Holy Light surged from his palms.
Like a golden river, it flowed slowly toward Shen Chuyou.
The radiance was warm and gentle, brightening the entire living room by a notch.
"Relax your body and mind, don't resist."
Lu Li said softly.
Shen Chuyou hesitated for a moment, but ultimately gave a slight nod and closed her eyes.
The golden Holy Light wrapped her whole body gently within it.
This time, the Holy Light did not wash violently over her body as before.
Instead, like countless warm, large hands, it slowly smoothed out the raging demonic energy in her body.
Holy Light and demonic energy were inherently incompatible existences.
But under Lu Li's exquisite control,
the Holy Light merely smoothed out the violence and chaos within the demonic energy one by one,
guiding them back under Shen Chuyou's control.
Shen Chuyou only felt warm all over, as if soaked in a hot spring.
The chill and feverish heat that had been lingering in her heart were dissipating bit by bit.
After a long moment, Lu Li slowly withdrew the Holy Light.
The demon horns atop Shen Chuyou's head were still there, and the heart-tipped tail behind her was still gently swaying.
But her entire temperament had undergone a subtle change.
No longer tense and suppressed as before, she now radiated a lazy, confident, and bewitching beauty.
Aloofness and charm, two completely contrasting temperaments,
blended together perfectly in her, producing a breathtaking beauty.
"It feels so light and easy!"
Shen Chuyou immediately felt the change within herself, her beautiful eyes lighting up.
She then looked at Lu Li and said earnestly:
"Thank you."
"You're welcome, we're friends,"
Lu Li said with a smile. "If your bloodline goes wild again later, feel free to come find me anytime. Don't try to tough it out on your own."
Shen Chuyou was slightly taken aback, and then the corners of her lips curved into a subtle arc.
"Okay."
That smile vanished in a flash, yet it was like snow melting in spring, dazzlingly beautiful.
Lu Li froze for a moment, secretly marveling.
This Succubus Bloodline was truly scary; she didn't even need to actively release it—a simple smile alone was soul-stirring.
"Alright."
He coughed twice to clear his throat and quickly changed the subject:
"It's getting late. You two should head back and get some rest early too."
"Thank you for tonight, Lu Li."
Shen Moli also stood up and bowed gratefully to Lu Li.
Shen Chuyou also exited her succubus form, returning to her usual aloof demeanor.
She gave Lu Li a light nod, then left the villa together with Shen Moli.
After watching the two slender figures disappear into the night, Lu Li turned back and closed the door.
Right at that moment, the system's prompt sounded in his mind.
[Ding! Congratulations on completing the daily task: Help Shen Chuyou soothe her Succubus Bloodline and suppress the demonic energy backlash!]
[Task complete! Drawing random reward...]
[Congratulations on obtaining 300,000 EXP!]
"An EXP reward this time?"
Lu Li raised a brow and immediately opened his status panel.
[Level]: Level 24 (356,372 / 200,000)
"I can level up now!"
Without hesitation, he immediately chose to level up.
[Ding! Congratulations on leveling up! Current Level: Level 25!]
[Influenced by the S-Rank Angel Bloodline, this level up grants: Free Attribute Points +100, Skill Points +50!]
[Divine Blessing effect triggered! Free Attribute Points and Skill Points doubled!]
[Final Gain: Free Attribute Points +200, Skill Points +100!]
A series of notification prompts chimed in his mind.
"200 Free Attribute Points and 100 Skill Points!"
Lu Li nodded in satisfaction.
These numbers were far more exaggerated than any previous level-up.
The higher the level, the more free attribute points and skill points a level-up yielded.
Coupled with the bonuses from his max-level Divine Blessing and Angel Bloodline, the attributes he gained each time were downright terrifying!
"At this rate, I should be able to reach Level 29 soon and begin my second class transfer."
Lu Li felt a surge of excitement in his heart.
The second class transfer was a watershed moment for any class holder.
Once the second class transfer succeeded, the skill tree would undergo a qualitative change, causing power to explode.
With his current accumulation, by the time the Exchange Tournament ended, he might really be able to reach that threshold!
"For now, though, this is a bit cruel to Modu University."
Lu Li couldn't help revealing a wicked smile.
His original strength was already beyond normal standards.
Now that his level had increased again, defeating Modu University would be even easier.
Chapter 135: Winning Streak! Semifinals!
"200 free attribute points..."
Looking at the numbers on the system panel, Lu Li did not hesitate much.
His logic for allocating attribute points had always been clear.
For a Paladin, balance was everything.
Only without shortcomings could one handle any situation with ease.
Moreover, his current fighting style inherently required comprehensive support from all four primary attributes.
"Strength, Constitution, Agility, and Intelligence—add 50 points to each."
With a thought from Lu Li, the 200 free attribute points were instantly allocated.
Following the infusion of attribute points, an indescribably warm current detonated deep within his body.
In an instant, he felt his entire body being tempered and fortified by a majestic power!
The sheer pleasure of his strength skyrocketing made him unable to hold back a soft groan.
"Phew—"
A moment later, Lu Li let out a long breath.
He opened his attribute panel, his eyes settling on those lines of numbers, and the corners of his mouth curved up slightly.
[Primary Attributes]: Strength: 867.5, Constitution: 870.1, Agility: 869.4, Intelligence: 873.6
His average attribute score had directly reached 870 points!
870 points across all four attributes was an utterly game-breaking existence among Level 25 combatants.
For an ordinary Level 25 combatant, having four to five hundred points in their main attribute was enough to be called a genius.
Yet he had maxed out all four, each nearly twice that of others!
How was this a Paladin?
This was clearly a humanoid magic beast!
Lu Li nodded in satisfaction and turned his gaze to the skill points column.
100 skill points were sitting there quietly.
"I can save the skill points for now and allocate them later."
His current skill system was already sufficiently mature.
Rather than scattering skill points into low-tier skills, it was better to hoard them first.
After all, after reaching Level 25, he would be able to learn even more skills.
"Once the exchange competition is over, I'll have the teacher teach me more skills."
Lu Li calculated silently in his heart.
Closing the panel, he stayed up no longer, washing up simply before falling into a deep sleep.
...
The next day, all of Imperial Capital University had a bye.
There were no team matches, nor any individual matches.
Taking advantage of this rare free day, most team members chose to rest.
But Lu Li was different.
Aside from completing the daily quests issued by the system,
He spent the rest of his time holed up in the training room on the villa's second floor.
His attributes had just surged by a large margin; he needed to adapt to this new power as soon as possible.
Swinging his battleaxe, practicing his holy light control, he honed his combat techniques over and over again.
"He's already this strong, yet still working this hard?"
Passing by, Bai Yuqing glanced up at the floor-to-ceiling window on the villa's second floor and couldn't help sighing in admiration.
Only Lu Li himself understood.
An average attribute score of 870 sounded terrifying.
Yet to truly reach the summit, this was still far from enough.
"I can be even stronger!"
He gripped his battleaxe tightly and swung out another strike.
...
Time flew by, and the ninth day of the exchange competition arrived.
This day and the next were designated for the individual matches.
Moreover, the champion of the individual tournament would be decided within these two days!
As soon as the matches began, the atmosphere on site was immediately dialed to the maximum.
Unlike the previous rounds, every contestant who reached the top twenty was a top genius from their respective academy.
Every single match was a tough battle.
Yet for Lu Li, it remained remarkably simple.
After the battle against Jiangnan University, he had completely dropped all pretense.
Starting from the top twenty matches, he did only one thing in every round.
At the start, he buffed himself to the brim, rushed forward, and ended the fight with a single axe swing.
There were no flashy maneuvers, nor any thrilling back-and-forth struggles.
Just one swing.
No matter who the opponent was.
No matter what class they played.
No matter what defensive stance they assumed.
With one swing of the axe, the person flew straight off the arena stage!
"Holy crap! One axe! It's fucking one axe again?!"
"The opponent didn't even have time to react!"
"Just how high are this guy's stats? This is pure stat-check crushing!"
"Others play individual matches like a tactical duel, but Lu Li plays them like speedrunning a dungeon!"
"So brutal! But I love it!"
"..."
In the stands, the audience went from their initial shock,
to subsequent numbness, and finally to complete frenzy.
Lu Li's matches had become the most predictable yet exhilarating part of the entire individual tournament.
"Lu Li! Lu Li! Lu Li!"
"One-Axe Superman! One-Axe Superman!"
Without knowing who started it, the entire arena began chanting this new nickname.
Lu Li didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
One-Axe Superman?
What in the world was that supposed to be?
Still, he had to admit, the nickname was quite fitting.
After all, he really had only used one axe swing.
Soon, Lu Li charged into the top four with an undefeated record!
Meanwhile, the other side of the bracket saw an internal clash that broke the hearts of all Imperial University fans.
Lin Qingyu drew Shen Chuyou.
Both were main forces of Imperial Capital University.
One was an aloof swordswoman, the other an S-Rank Elemental Mage.
No matter who won or lost, Imperial Capital Universitywould lose a major pillar.
"Qingyu, I won't hold back,"
Shen Chuyou said softly, lifting her silver-gray eyes slightly.
"Just what I want."
Lin Qingyu unsheathed her sword, fighting spirit blazing in her cool eyes.
This battle was exceptionally spectacular.
Lin Qingyu's sword was as swift as a gale and razor-sharp.
Yet Shen Chuyou's magic rolled out layer upon layer like a tidal wave, blanketing the sky.
Sword light shattered ice walls, only for lightning to relentlessly follow close behind.
The two locked in fierce combat on the arena stage for eight full minutes.
Ultimately, Shen Chuyou secured victory thanks to the formidable magic granted by her Elemental Body.
And Lu Li knew that this wasn't even Shen Chuyou's ultimate form.
If she activated her Succubus Bloodline, her strength would soar by another massive leap.
"I lost."
Sheathing her sword, Lin Qingyu felt a bit disappointed, yet she still smiled candidly:
"I'll leave the remaining matches to you."
"Mm."
Shen Chuyou nodded.
In the stands, Shen Moli leaped up in sheer excitement!
"Xiao You! Xiao You, you were amazing!"
She waved the school flag in her hand like crazy.
Her small face was flushed red as she screamed at the top of her lungs:
"Our Imperial Capital University got two into the semifinals!
Two! We took two seats in the top four!"
As soon as these words came out, the entire Imperial University cheer section boiled over with excitement.
Among the final four, Imperial Capital University claimed two spots all to itself!
Lu Li and Shen Chuyou!
Half of the final four were from Imperial Capital University—who would dare question their prestige now?
...
Soon, the tenth day arrived.
On this day, the crowd in the stadium grew even larger!
All two hundred thousand seats were packed without a single empty spot!
Even the aisles were filled with spectators who had come specifically for the spectacle.
Because today was the day of the individual tournament's semifinals and grand finals!
Outside the venue, scalped tickets had already been driven to astronomical prices.
On social media, related topics firmly dominated the number one spot on the trending list.
The gaze of the entire Yanlong Country was fixed upon this ultra-large stadium at Modu University.
When Lu Li and the others entered the venue, the tsunami-like sound wave rattled everyone's eardrums until they ached.
Two hundred thousand people shouting simultaneously created a scene several times more shocking than opening day!
"Honored spectators! Welcome to day ten of the exchange competition!"
At nine sharp in the morning, the host's resonant voice rang throughout the stadium:
"Today, we will determine the champion of the individual tournament!"
"Just which prodigy will ascend to the solo throne of this exchange competition?!"
"Let us wait and see!"
As soon as the words fell, the atmosphere inside the venue was instantly set ablaze!
"Next, please welcome our top four contestants!"
"First up, from Modu University—Gu Lingyun!"
Boom—!
The spotlight snapped on, illuminating the exit of the contestants' tunnel.
Dressed in a suit of dark purple armor and wielding a pitch-black demonic sword, Gu Lingyun walked out at an unhurried pace.
He had a handsome face and a refined demeanor, with a faint, imperceptible smile lingering on his lips.
Gu Lingyun!
Captain of Modu University!
An S-Rank Talent, Level 23 Magic Swordsman!
As the captain of Modu University and competing on home turf,
The moment he appeared, cheers throughout the entire venue erupted explosively!
"Gu Lingyun! Gu Lingyun! Gu Lingyun!"
"Modu University will triumph! Captain Gu is invincible!"
"Lingyun, Lingyun, your sword qi reaches the clouds!"
"..."
The wave of cheering rolled like a landslide and tsunami, echoing endlessly.
Gu Lingyun, wearing a gentle smile, waved in greeting toward the spectator stands.
He was the home favorite, the absolute core of Modu University's supporters.
"Next, from Jiangnan University—Ye Jinghong!"
The spotlight lit up once more.
Clad in teal and white battle robes and gripping a longsword, Ye Jinghong looked strikingly formidable.
Striding out of the tunnel, her expression held a sharp edge that rivaled any man's.
Ye Jinghong!
Captain of Jiangnan University!
An S-Rank Talent, Level 23 Sword Master!
The proud daughter of the Beijing Ye Family!
She had no shortage of fans either.
Her valiant heroism that refused to yield to any man especially drew a large crowd of die-hard supporters.
"Ye Jinghong! Ye Jinghong!"
"Jiangnan University, charge forward without retreat!"
"Sister Jinghong, smash them all!"
"..."
Cheers surged like a tide, yet Ye Jinghong merely gave a slight nod, her brow carrying a focused fighting spirit.
"Next up, from Imperial Capital University—Shen Chuyou!"
The spotlight shone for the third time.
When that figure with long silver-white hair entered everyone's view, the cheering across the venue surged even higher than before!
"Shen Chuyou! Shen Chuyou! Shen Chuyou!"
"Goddess! Goddess!"
"Shen Chuyou, look over here! Look over here!"
"Aaaah—!"
Screams rose one after another, mingled with countless heartbroken, frantic male roars.
Shen Chuyou's fanbase was undeniably the largest among the final four!
There was no helping it; with both her figure and looks being top-tier, she naturally drew countless smitten admirers.
Especially today, wearing a moon-white mage robe with her long, silver-white hair cascading like a waterfall down to her waist.
Her astonishing curves, outlined beneath the robe, were all the more breathtaking.
The tear mole at the corner of her eye added an extra hint of allure.
Paired with that aloof, peerless face, she looked like a goddess stepped straight out of myth.
Cool yet sensual, she made countless spectators in the stands gawk with wide eyes.
Yet Shen Chuyou maintained her usual detached expression.
With only a slight nod, she walked toward the center of the arena.
Listening to the wolf howls rising one after another from the prep area, Lu Li couldn't help but twitch his lips.
Did these guys come to watch the matches, or did they come to ogle?