The onlookers' pulses quickened with each strike exchanged between the combatants, their cheers echoing through the arena as the fight reached its climax. This was one of the best fight they had ever seen, leaving spectators breathless with admiration and disbelief. As the dust settled and the victorious duo emerged, the crowd erupted in thunderous applause, their admiration palpable in the charged atmosphere.
Among the spectators, whispers rippled through the crowd, fueled by awe and curiosity. How could someone in the fifth stage of the origin realm possess such formidable strength? It was a question that lingered in the minds of many, overshadowing even the thrill of the spectacle they had just witnessed.
While they could understand the royal family's only heir to be this strong, who was this unknown person who was even stronger than him?
As the spectators' minds raced with countless questions, they saw Eli Shan and Lin Feng emerging from the arena. Stepping out, their expressions radiated with satisfaction, and the crowd instinctively made way for them.
With awe and respect, the onlookers gazed at both of them as they passed through the crowd.
Approaching Xie Meng, Eli Shan couldn't resist a touch of playful arrogance. "I am great, aren't I?" he remarked, a hint of pride coloring his tone.
Xie Meng responded with a gentle affirmation, her smile radiant with affection. "No one could be greater than you, husband," she replied softly.
Observing Eli Shan and Xie Meng, Lin Feng thought of something but hesitated to speak. "Brother Eli Shan," he began softly, his gaze shifting between Eli Shan and Xie Meng, "I wanted to ask you about something from earlier, should I?"
Eli Shan nodded. "Of course, what's on your mind?"
"It's about..." Lin Feng leaned in, lowering his voice, "A girl..."
A flicker of understanding crossed Eli Shan's features, his smile warm and knowing. "Feel free to speak openly, Lin Feng. There's nothing to hide from Xie Meng."
Lin Feng nodded solemnly before posing his question, "Do you remember that girl who was with you? I guess her name was Feng Qiang, right?"
Eli Shan nodded in acknowledgment. "You are correct."
Lin Feng continued with a nod. "Would you like to meet her again?"
"Huh? What do you mean?" Eli Shan asked, confusion evident in his voice. She live in this city too? How could there be such a coincidence?
Lin Feng grasped Eli Shan's confusion and elaborated, "Brother if I'm not mistaken, she is the only daughter of Feng Liu, the wealthiest and most prominent businessman in this city. He even donated the highest amount of money to the royal family. It was at that time, when he came to donate money while I was young, I met with his only daughter, Feng Qiang!"
Eli Shan's expression shifted as understanding dawned. "Ah, I see," he murmured, the pieces falling into place. Though he was still shocked. Does all of his friends have such a big background?
Eli Shan's disbelief lingered as he questioned, "How could there be such a coincidence?"
In response, Lin Feng offered insight, "Brother, perhaps you're unaware, but people from the central plains are scattered far and wide across the world. Especially the offspring of influential figures. They're often sent on journeys at a young age to gain a deeper understanding of the world. Eventually, they return to their roots, either to ascend to positions of power or to assist in their family's business."
Eli Shan nodded in understanding. "This is indeed a smart strategy to increase a city's strength. Now I understand why there aren't many pampered rich kids here. So, she's in this city right now?"
Lin Feng pondered for a moment before replying, "If you're here, then it's likely she's also arrived in this city. Let's go meet her."
Eli Shan nodded, intertwining his fingers with Xie Meng's before saying, "Yes, let's go."
With that, the trio set off together once more. On the way, Lin Feng provided detailed information about Feng Qiang's background. "Feng Liu's main business is inns. He owns all the major inns in this city, as well as the outsides."
Eli Shan absorbed this information with a nod. "Ah, that might explain why she mentioned helping her father in business instead of pursuing martial arts."
Lin Feng's brow furrowed. "That's what she said? However, from what I know... Feng Liu doesn't just manage businesses; he's also a skilled cultivator. I've heard he wants his daughter to excel in cultivation more than in business."
"Is that so?" Eli Shan mused, his tone laced with intrigue.
Lin Feng nodded solemnly, his expression earnest. "Well, I could be mistaken. Who knows? Maybe she doesn't wish to follow in her father's footsteps? Though, she seemed strong for her school and age."
Eli Shan shook his head slowly, his gaze distant. "I haven't seen her cultivate, but her cultivation has never lagged far behind mine. That suggests she's always been cultivating hard, doesn't it?"
Lin Feng chuckled heartily, "If she didn't fall far behind in cultivation compared to a monster like you, then I can assure you she's been giving it her all in cultivating. Hahaha."
Eli Shan laughed in agreement, "Hahaha. You're right! Well, only she can answer that now. There's no point dwelling on it."
They continued chatting as they strolled through the bustling streets
After walking for a while, they finally came across an inn, which was hundreds of times larger and more majestic than the inn Eli Shan had stayed at with the help of Feng Qiang in the sacred city.
This inn stood like a golden beacon amidst the bustling city, its walls adorned with mesmerizing patterns and mysterious intricacies that seemed to dance in the flickering light. Each detail told a story of craftsmanship and ancient wisdom, drawing the eye and stirring the imagination.
Before them, the inn's gate stood tall and imposing, its grandeur intensified by the intricate dragon sign at its center. Carved with such precision that it seemed almost alive, the dragon's eyes glinted with an otherworldly wisdom, as if guarding the secrets held within.
"Is this still an inn?" Eli Shan's incredulous whisper barely masked his awe as he beheld the sight before him.
Stepping inside, they were greeted by a gatekeeper whose presence exuded an air of authority. "Welcome, dear customers," the lady greeted with a polite smile.
Even as they exchanged pleasantries, Eli Shan found himself unable to shake off his disbelief. "Even the gatekeeper has reached the first stage of origin realm cultivation?"
Lin Feng nodded respectfully at the gatekeeper and stepped forward, leading the way deeper into the inn. "Brother Eli Shan, didn't I mention that the master of this inn, Feng Liu, has a deep passion for cultivation?" he reminded, his tone tinged with admiration. "He goes so far as to seek out workers with great potential and provides them with all the cultivation resources they need to advance in their cultivation. That's the reason thousands of people are willing to fight to the death just for the opportunity to join this inn, even if it means only becoming a gatekeeper."
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Eli Shan nodded in understanding, a newfound respect for Feng Liu blossoming within him. "Feng Qiang's father is truly a man of wisdom," he remarked, his admiration evident in his voice.
On the ground floor of the inn, the atmosphere was neither bustling nor deserted, but rather held a sense of quiet anticipation. Taking a look around, Lin Feng made his way to the innkeeper, who greeted him with a respectful bow. "Welcome to our inn, prince."
Returning the nod, Lin Feng made his request, "Take us to the VIP section."
The innkeeper smiled warmly. "Please follow me."
Leading them up to the third floor, the innkeeper guided them to an empty area, where plush sofas surrounded a polished table. "Please make yourselves comfortable here, prince," she offered graciously.
As they settled into the inviting surroundings, the innkeeper turned her attention to their needs. "So, what would you like to order?" she inquired, ready to cater to their desires.
Lin Feng wasted no time in placing his request. "Bring us the finest beer this establishment has to offer."
The innkeeper nodded, noting the request with a smile. "I will inform the waiter to serve you the best wine. Please relax and enjoy your time here," she assured them before departing.
However, as she turned around, Lin Feng suddenly recalled something and inquired, "By the way, do you happen to know where Miss Feng Qiang might be?"
The innkeeper turned around, shaking her head gently. "Miss Qiang returned a few days ago, but she appeared troubled and sorrowful for unknown reasons. Upon witnessing her in this state, the master made the decision to take her away for a while to undergo training and uplift her spirits."
Understanding the situation, Lin Feng dismissed the innkeeper with a nod. "Thank you for your assistance."
As the innkeeper departed, Lin Feng and Eli Shan exchanged a knowing glance. "She didn't seem sad when we left. Do you think something happened on the way, or perhaps she was missing her school?" Eli Shan guessed, his brow furrowing in concern.
Lin Feng smiled knowingly, his gaze shifting between Xie Meng and Eli Shan. "Well, brother, should I share my thoughts?"
Eli Shan nodded, curiosity piqued.
With a hint of mischief in his eyes, Lin Feng continued, "It's just speculation on my part, but during the competition, I couldn't help but notice how she looked at you..."
Eli Shan's expression changed as he understood what Lin Feng was implying. "Huh? No, no, brother, you must be mistaken," he protested weakly, stealing a glance at Xie Meng. However, a creeping unease washed over him as he saw her smile—a smile reflecting what Eli Shan's enemies always witnessed before their deaths...
Lin Feng shook his head, a grin playing on his lips. "Perhaps I am mistaken? Maybe she was simply missing her school, or..." His grin widened. "...her closest friend?"
Eli Shan let out a resigned sigh, shaking his head in amusement. "I know I am handsome, but I've never felt her gaze as anything more than a friend," he admitted with a smile, his gaze shifting to Xie Meng with a warmth that conveyed his affection. "And even if she did, my heart belongs to only one."
Xie Meng's cheeks flushed crimson as she lowered her gaze, a bashful smile gracing her lips in response to Eli Shan's declaration.
Soon, a waiter arrived, setting down a bottle of beer and glasses on the table with a flourish honed by years of practice.
Lin Feng reached for the bottle, his eyes gleaming with anticipation as he beckoned Eli Shan to join him. "Brother, this beer is the specialty of this inn. Give it a try, but take it slow," he advised with a grin.
Eli Shan nodded, pouring the beer into a glass and downing it in a single gulp.
"Hey, brother, no-"
But before Lin Feng could finish, Eli Shan had already finished the drink.
Suddenly, Eli Shan felt a warmth radiating from his stomach, a sensation that surged through his veins, coursing through his entire body, enhancing every part of his being.
"I'm getting stronger?" Eli Shan's voice echoed with disbelief.
Lin Feng stared at him in disbelief. "Brother, are you alright?"
Eli Shan replied with feigned surprise, "Why? You didn't put some poison in there, did you?"
Lin Feng hastily shook his head. "No, no, Brother Eli Shan, what are you saying? It's just that this beer has the unique ability to enhance physical strength. However, the enhancement process is quite painful. Just a sip is enough to induce intense pain throughout the body. Yet, you seem completely unaffected even after consuming a whole glass at once. As I suspected, you truly are a monster!"
Meanwhile, Xie Meng calmly poured herself a glass of beer and downed it in a single gulp.
"..."
"Xie Meng, you're just at the Zun realm now. Would it be alright to drink it all at once like that?" Eli Shan asked, his expression filled with concern. He was prepared to assist her in digesting it with his origin qi if needed, but after waiting a while... nothing happened.
Then she looked at Eli Shan and smiled cutely, indirectly asking him to praise her.
"Xie Meng, you're truly formidable. I apologize for underestimating you," Eli Shan praised warmly, patting her head affectionately.
Meanwhile, watching them, Lin Feng was utterly astonished. He knew the best how strong was this beer. The first time he drank it, he couldn't forget the pain. "You two are monsters, not normal at all," Lin Feng sighed.
Eli Shan turned to Lin Feng with a grin. "Forget about that for now, brother. I've been pondering something important. What exactly is this competition the innkeeper mentioned?"
Lin Feng leaned back, contemplating Eli Shan's question. "Ah, that competition is a massive event where participants from across the universe gather. It's open to anyone under the age of two hundred. The winner not only receives abundant resources to advance their cultivation beyond the emperor realm but also earns the rare opportunity to be taught by the strongest cultivator in the universe."
Eli Shan's eyes widened in astonishment. "Such a generous reward? But wait, when you say 'the strongest cultivator of the universe,' do you mean there's a single cultivator who surpasses all others?"
Lin Feng's surprise mirrored Eli Shan's. "You haven't heard of it before?"
Eli Shan shook his head. "Never."
Lin Feng nodded thoughtfully before elaborating. "There are realms higher than the Emperor Realm, and within those realms, there's a being who stands above all others: the Great Emperor Sovereign."
Eli Shan absorbed this information with keen interest. "What a majestic title! But what makes him so superior to others, to be considered the strongest in the universe?"
Lin Feng considered the question before responding. "The specifics are uncertain, but legends claim that his body is invulnerable to any weapon. He has honed his physical body to such a degree that it transcends the limits of our universe."
"So exaggerating?" Eli Shan mused.
Lin Feng nodded in agreement, then, struck by an idea, he stood up in excitement. "Eli Shan, I've got an idea. Why don't you participate in the competition? It's held every three years, so you'll have enough time to prepare."
Eli Shan shook his head, his expression thoughtful. "Brother, what are you saying? There will be cultivators at the peak of the Emperor realm participating, won't there?"
Lin Feng's excitement waned as he settled back into his seat, sighing softly. "Yeah, if only we had been born a bit sooner. But that's fine, because this competition is held every hundred years. That will be the time for us to shine. However, we could still participate to gain new experience from the competition."
Eli Shan simply smiled. The thought of cultivators at the peak of the Emperor Realm reminded him of the invaders who had wounded his father. What would happen if they were to attack again? Was he strong enough now to confront them? Perhaps he should go into seclusion to increase his cultivation, but he wasn't sure when they might strike again, nor how long it would take him to break through to the Emperor Realm. Moreover, reaching the Emperor Realm required not just cultivation, but also understanding of force, blood, body, and soul. And as if that weren't enough, there was also a transformation of qi from the origin to the Emperor Realm.
Lost in thought, Eli Shan abruptly rose from his seat, a sense of urgency in his demeanor. "Lin Feng, I have to attend something urgently. I won't be able to accompany you further. I hope you understand.
Lin Feng looked at Eli Shan's serious expression and didn't argue. "If that's what you want, then I won't force you. But come to meet me again soon, and let's have another sparring session, haha."
Eli Shan smiled warmly, cupping his fist in gratitude. "Thanks for your assistance in this unfamiliar city. The treat will be on you. Farewell for now."
Before Lin Feng could respond, Eli Shan grasped Xie Meng's hand, and they vanished into thin air, leaving Lin Feng bewildered by their sudden disappearance.
"Huh? Am I drunk? I don't remember this drink having the ability to make someone drunk. Where did they disappear to?" Lin Feng used his spiritual consciousness, but he couldn't find them anywhere.
"Brother Eli Shan is truly mysterious," he mused, a mix of admiration and bewilderment clouding his thoughts.
Meanwhile, Eli Shan and Xie Meng appeared inside his soul world. Before them lay a slumbering dragon who opened its eyes upon their arrival.
Eli Shan approached the dragon with a warm smile. "How are you, big brother dragon?"
The dragon's eyes twinkled with amusement. "What could happen to me? I am the strongest dragon," he chuckled.
Eli Shan nodded with a smile. Then his expression turned solemn as he stood in silence for a moment, lost in thought. Then, he turned his gaze first to the dragon, then to Xie Meng, contemplating a matter deeply.
Sensing Eli Shan's inner turmoil, Xie Meng approached him, her expression filled with concern as she gently clasped his hands. "What's wrong, husband?"
Meanwhile, the dragon observed their interaction with a mixture of surprise and amusement, his eyes betraying a hint of shock at their unexpected display of affection. "This brat is quite skilled with the ladies, isn't he?"
Of course, the dragon merely thought to himself, refraining from commenting aloud as he watched the two of them flirt.
Eli Shan, who had been hesitant until now, tightened his grip on Xie Meng's hand. His eyes shone with determination as he finally spoke with resolve. "I want to reincarnate."