《Supreme Pet Evolution System》


 Chapter 1

    C1 ¨C Bloodline Enhancement System


    Jiao Yuanju raced on relentlessly, his hair soaked with sweat from exhaustion, yet he never paused for a moment.


    He dared not nce back at the enormous snake on his heels; a moment¡¯s inattention would mean being devoured like the slower elders trailing behind him. His only chance of escape was to reach the city encased in a pale blue glow.


    As he ran, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s face grew increasingly pale, but atst, a vast city shrouded by a light blue energy shield came into view. The silhouettes of skyscrapers were barely visible within, and the city¡¯s entrancey just a few hundred meters ahead. Alongside him, other youths sprinted desperately toward the city¡¯s gateway. Dawn was breaking, yet the monstrous roars from behind filled him with dread.


    A four-meter-long green snake slithered swiftly in his direction, its jaws ring open to spray venom.


    Ignoring all else, Jiao Yuanju bolted. He finally burst through the city gates, bathed in a golden radiance.


    The giant snake halted at the city¡¯s threshold, flicking its tongue in frustration before turning to pursue other humans racing toward the sanctuary.


    Inside the city, Jiao Yuanju let out a sigh of relief upon seeing the distant streets. His strength was spent, but the sight of the tiny, unopened-eyed snake cradled in his arms brought a weary smile to his face. His dirtied state was of no consequence now; he was on the verge of acquiring his very own Combat Pet.


    The arrival of a mysterious meteorite had forever altered Earth¡¯s destiny, its intense radiation and the abundant cosmic energy triggering a wave of gic evolution across countless species. Humans, too, had given rise to numerous individuals with extraordinary abilities. Following six hundred years of the ¡°Dark Age,¡± human technology had soared, segregating cities from the wilds.


    In this world, traditional fields such as service, technology, andmerce wereplemented by new professions tailored to these changes. For the average person aspiring to distinction, two prime career paths beckoned: Combat Pet Master and Mech Master.


    Earth-type Combat Pets were harnessed for construction, while water-type Combat Pets served in marine engineering. Diverse, gically evolved creatures, once tamed as pets, now propelled the new era forward. It was a noble and esteemed vocation.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s parents were just regr wage earners, unable to afford a Combat Pet for him. To continue his education after junior high, Su Yun needed his own pet, along with the chance to earn a substantial reward of ten thousand Alliance Coins. So, for the sake of his parents and his own future, Su Yun secretly joined others from humble backgrounds in the perilous wilderness to ¡°poach beasts.¡± This was his ticket to qualify for school!


    Upon returning home, Jiao Yuanju gazed at the tiny snake in his hand with a tinge of disappointment. ¡°Could this really be just an average Azure Snake?¡±


    He ventured into a shop, spending the thousand Alliance Coins he¡¯d saved over nearly a year on a bloodline talisman, then retreated to a secluded alley. Holding the unopened-eyed, green-hued snake, Jiao Yuanju sighed, ¡°My destiny now rests in your coils.¡±


    The bloodline talisman was user-friendly, a Miraculous Technology Talisman designed from biological gics. Just a drop of the user¡¯s blood on the pet, and the bloodline would seamlessly bond, syncing their genes and intentions.


    Once the talisman dissolved into the snake¡¯s skin, Jiao Yuanju felt its breath and pulse. The creature¡¯s eyes fluttered open, instantly bonding with Su Yun as its closest ally, and gently wrapped around his wrist. It was now officially Su Yun¡¯s Combat Pet.


    With a sense of relief, Jiao Yuanju dered, ¡°From this day forward, you shall be known as Eoldrai.¡±


    Abruptly, a synthetic voice echoed in Jiao Yuanju¡¯s head, ¡°Ding! Host bindingplete. Bloodline Enhancement System activated. Initial functions, including the Bloodline Enhancement Merchant Shop and system analysis, are now online. As a first-time bind, you are entitled to aplimentary Evolution Elixir from the Merchant Shop. Would you like to im it?¡±


    ¡°What on earth is this?¡± Jiao Yuanju was baffled. What exactly was this system?


    ¡°Is it akin to an online Merchant Shop? But why would it bind to me?¡±


    Though Jiao Yuanju was clueless about the system¡¯s origins, he was in dire need of power. His newly hatched pet was diminutive andcked offensive capabilities. Once registered, it would be sorted into sses based on its strength!


    After a brief hesitation, the naturally cautious Jiao Yuanju responded, ¡°Extract!¡±


    To his surprise, a small vial of enhancing fluid materialized in his hand the very next second. The pale golden liquid within it had an otherworldly appearance.


    ¡°Did it actually work?¡±


    It took Jiao Yuanju a few minutes to recover from his shock. The idea of being tethered to a system was almost too much to grasp. His excitement was palpable, and his curiosity about this new system deepened.


    He gazed at the small snake, which seemed to cling to him, for several seconds before he finally, and very gently, pried open its mouth. The snake cooperated fully. Though it was just an average Evolved Beast, it possessed a level of intelligence far beyond that of ordinary domestic fowl.


    Once the snake had consumed the enhancing fluid, the vial vanished into thin air.


    Then, the transformation began almost immediately!


    The snake¡¯s diminutive frame started to expand, quickly reaching half a meter in length. Its delicate scales hardened, its eyes sparkled with a newfound vivacity, but most strikingly, its pupils shifted to a deep purple hue, and a distinctive pattern resembling three bloodlines emerged on its forehead. In a mere moment, the creature had matured into its juvenile phase!

 Chapter 2

    C2 ¨C The Competition of Combat Pet


    ¡°The pet has sessfullypleted its bloodline evolution. Here are the details of the pet.¡±


    [Pet: Phantom Snake]


    [Gender: Female]


    [Attributes: Poison, Wind, Darkness]


    [Skills: Invisibility, Poison Fangs, Fog of Darkness]


    [Owner: Jiao Yuanju]


    [Current Level: Valuable and Rare]


    [Type: Special Initial Evolution]


    [Owner¡¯s Current Level: Elite]


    Jiao Yuanju was astounded; his pet had evolved and reached the coveted valuable and rare status!


    It¡¯smon knowledge thatbat pets are categorized into average, rare, very rare, and legendary tiers, while Combat Pet Masters are ranked as spiritual, elite, grandmaster, and mythical.


    ¡°I never imagined I¡¯d own a valuable and rare pet. This is abat pet so unique, it can¡¯t be purchased even for two hundred thousand Alliance Coins!¡±


    Suddenly, Jiao Yuanju had an epiphany. He whispered to himself, ¡°It seems I¡¯ve evolved as well!¡±


    He felt his blood surge with excitement. His perception sharpened, with sounds and images bing increasingly vivid. Indeed, when a pet evolves, its owner experiences the ripple effects!


    ¡°This is perfect. Now I can sign up for the Combat Pet Academy!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was overjoyed. For him, nothing was more thrilling than the opportunity to join the Combat Pet Academy.


    He extended his arm and chuckled, ¡°Eoldrai, off we go!¡±


    Eoldrai flicked her tongue and coiled around Jiao Yuanju¡¯s arm, a stark contrast to her previous self!


    Together, they hurried toward the renowned Azure Academy for Combat Pets.


    On their journey, they saw giant eagles asrge as bulls and swift wind birds crisscrossing the sky, while various cats and dogs navigated the streets below.


    The evolution had touched domestic animals as well, with some undergoing dramatic transformations and others showing little change. This evolution revolutionized the value of pets, and Combat Pet Masters now filled many roles once held by humans.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your pet?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju made it to ss 7 just in time for the afternoon session. Commoners without exceptional talents were ced in average sses, where teachers meticulously inspected each student¡¯s pet.


    ¡°The me turkey is known for its formidablebat abilities and practical use.¡±


    ¡°The Wind Cat isn¡¯t too shabby either,¡± remarked one of the teachers as they conducted their inspections ss by ss. When they reached Jiao Yuanju, his Eoldrai, a small green creature, was sprawledzily across his arm, utterly motionless.


    Pei Chang, the homeroom teacher, examined Eoldrai closely and expressed his curiosity, ¡°Is this a Phantom Snake? It seems a bit off. Could it be a variant?¡±


    Phantom Snakes were known to have potential. Some students,cking any innate talent and saddled with average pets, had been turned away by Azure Academy.


    Jiao Yuanju breathed a sigh of relief once his admission was confirmed. With entry into the school secured, he knew he could earn Alliance Coins to help ease his family¡¯s financial strain.


    Once the entire ss had assembled, Pei Chang led them to a metallic room, at the center of which stood a vast metal tform spanning dozens of meters. This was the arena for assessing the aptitude of Combat Pet Masters.


    Pei Chang surveyed the group and dered with a nod of approval, ¡°We¡¯ll now begin the entrancebat trials to gauge the prowess of both the Combat Pets and their Masters. Who wants to step up first?¡±


    ¡°Teacher, I¡¯ll go first!¡± A plump student couldn¡¯t contain his eagerness and bellowed out his challenge.


    Striding onto the arena with a bear that stood half as tall as a man, he surveyed the crowd below with a smug look. ¡°I¡¯m destined to be the strongest in ss 7. The role of ss monitor is mine for the taking!¡±


    Laughter and scorn erupted from the onlookers.


    ¡°Who do you think you are? You believe you can just im the title of ss monitor?¡±


    ¡°You dare boast about being the strongest? My Wind Shadow Leopard hasn¡¯t even had its turn. What makes you so confident?¡±


    Many of those present were from affluent backgrounds and were not easily impressed. They all understood that a Combat Pet Trainer School was no ordinary institution. Bing ss monitor meant early ess to a wealth of resources and opportunities. The sess of two Grandmaster Combat Pet Masters from Azure Academy, who now held significant military positions, spoke volumes.


    Truth be told, most students at such a prestigious school hailed from wealthy families. A few had gained admission by merging with rather unremarkable, low-level creatures, but such individuals were often quickly weeded out. It was rare to find someone like Jiao Yuanju, who had taken it upon himself to hunt in the wild, a task demanding great courage and tenacity.


    A decent pet starts at a steep price of 10,000 Alliance Coins, which is roughly the annual ie of an average family¡ªabout 10,000 to 20,000. Who else but the wealthy could possibly afford one?


    Jiao Yuanju remained silent. He had always maintained a low profile, even after acquiring the system. He had no interest in squabbling with the offspring of the affluent. For one, hecked the resources topete with them, and for another, his goal was to earn the title of a warrior through being a Combat Pet Master, enabling him to collect Alliance Coins by undertaking missions.


    Pei Chang, the homeroom teacher, spoke with a nonchnt air, ¡°Jing Mowen is already on stage. Does anyone here wish to challenge him?¡±


    The school actually had equipment to test the synergy between students and their Combat Pets¡ªjust a simple test would suffice. But this approach showcased the students¡¯ real skills more effectively, which is why there were arenapetitions each year. It was an opportunity to strut one¡¯s stuff in front of a crowd.


    ¡°I will!¡±


    A burly student stepped forward. Hisplexion was dark, and he was solidly built. His smile was simple and honest. Following him was a creature resembling arge wolf dog, but with ck, curly fur. He introduced himself, ¡°My name is Pei Henwen, and this is my Combat Pet, the big wolf dog!¡±

 Chapter 3

    C3 ¨C The Competition among the ss Committee


    Jing Mowen chuckled, ¡°You big oaf, you love the spotlight, don¡¯t you? Let¡¯s see how you handle this beating I¡¯m about to give your dog!¡±


    With a flourish, Jing Mowenmanded confidently, ¡°Mighty Bear, Explosive Strike!¡±


    The ck bear, though bulky, shed a menacing re. It charged at the ck dog, its ws pounding the ground with such force that the arena trembled. Without a hint of mercy, itshed out at the ck dog.


    Pei Henwen spoke with gravity, ¡°Coalball, Bite!¡±


    Undaunted, the ck dog lunged, baring its fangs and snapping at the ck bear!


    Jiao Yuanju watched the twobat pets, his mind racing like an analyzer, swiftly disying the stats of each creature.


    Combat Pet: Mighty Bear


    Gender: Male


    Attribute: Earth


    Current Level: Average


    Evolution: Initial


    Skills: Explosive Attack, Strike


    Owner: Jing Mowen


    Owner¡¯s Level: Spiritual Intermediate


    Combat Pet: Big Wolf Dog


    Gender: Male


    Attribute: Earth


    Current Level: Average


    Evolution: Initial


    Skills: Bite, Roar


    Owner: Pei Henwen


    Owner¡¯s Level: Spiritual Initial


    Jiao Yuanju eximed in astonishment, ¡°They¡¯re both average level, but the Mighty Bear is clearly the stronger one. Plus, its owner is at the spiritual intermediate stage as a Combat Pet Master, indicating a higher synergy andbat effectiveness. It looks like the other guy is headed for a loss!¡±


    A few heads turned towards Jiao Yuanju, their eyes brimming with skepticism and scorn. Who was this guy?


    Realizing he might have spoken out of turn, Jiao Yuanju still stood by his assessment. In the battle of pet quality and master levels, Pei Henwen was outmatched by Jing Mowen. The result seemed inevitable.


    The Big Wolf Dog leaped onto the ck bear¡¯s back, mping down fiercely!


    But the ck bear retaliated with equal ferocity, its ws striking the ck dog with rage. Post-evolution, both creatures were formidable beasts, and now they shed in a brutal encounter.


    The Big Wolf Dog¡¯s Roar might have been effective against lesser beasts, but it was futile against a Mighty Bear of equal standing. Jing Mowen, patting his rotund stomach, cheered excitedly, ¡°Mighty Bear, Strike!¡±


    The ck bear swiftly dipped its head and charged at the ck dog, sending it tumbling away with a pained yelp.


    Pei Henwen was startled and dashed over. In a mix of embarrassment and anger, he hurried his injured pet to the medical room, which was equipped to quickly treat wounded animals.


    ¡°He really lost.¡±


    The crowd was deted by the oue. They had anticipated a sh of titans, but it ended in a lopsided rout.


    Jing Mowenughed triumphantly. ¡°Well? Is there anyone left who doubts I should be ss monitor?¡±


    The onlookers exchanged uneasy nces. With the Mighty Bear still looking fierce and formidable, silence fell over them.


    Pei Chang, the homeroom teacher, anticipated this and spoke with equanimity, ¡°If there are no further challenges, Jing Mowen will be our ss monitor. You may now proceed to test your Combat Pet Master levels.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was immediately unsettled. The Spiritual Level was the benchmark for entry-level Combat Pet Masters. One had to reach this level to qualify for various positions. Yet, with the system¡¯s assistance, he had already ascended to the elite tier. Although uncertain if there were other elite contenders in their cohort, Jing Mowen was merely a spiritual intermediate-level Combat Pet Master. Jiao Yuanju knew his own talents andbat pet were strong among the neers. Bing ss monitor was essential for greater influence¡ªhe had to secure a spot on the ss council!


    As Jiao Yuanju readied himself to challenge Jing Mowen, a soft female voice rang out, ¡°Teacher, I¡¯d like to challenge him!¡±


    The voice belonged to a statuesque girl from the back of ss 7. Her attire showcased her long legs and charming face. She shed the teacher a sweet, lively smile, captivating all the boys.


    Pei Chang looked her way and chuckled, ¡°Ah, Zhen Heyi. There¡¯s no need for you topete¡ªyou¡¯re a shoo-in for ss monitor or deputy.¡±


    A murmur of surprise rippled through the crowd. She was either incredibly skilled or came from a distinguished family.


    Pei Chang added coolly, ¡°Zhen Heyi is a spiritual advanced-level Combat Pet Master. If any of you believe you can best her, feel free to step up and challenge her.¡±


    The room drew in a collective breath. This seemingly delicate girl was, in fact, a spiritual advanced-level Combat Pet Master!


    Jing Mowen fell silent, not daring to utter another word.


    Suddenly, Jiao Yuanju rose to his feet and dered, ¡°Teacher, I challenge Jing Mowen!¡±


    Many had already caught a glimpse of his Combat Pet and scoffed, ¡°All he has is a green snake¡ªthat¡¯s the most basic wild beast there is.¡±


    Yet, everyone was well aware that Jiao Yuanju¡¯s pet was exceptional. The Green Snake was a creature of evolution, a specimen that might fetch more than 10,000 Alliance Coins. Still, the gathering boasted many Combat Pets that outmatched the Green Snake.


    Jiao Yuanju, undeniably handsome, had the smallest Combat Pet present. The crowd was eager to witness his tiny Green Snake be prey to the Mighty Bear.


    Jing Mowen let out a mockingugh, ¡°I¡¯m just worried you¡¯ll burst into tears if I end up killing your Green Snake!¡±


    Confidence wasn¡¯t Jiao Yuanju¡¯s strong suit, especially since this was his inaugural experience with abat pet¡ªhe had never been in a battle. But the thought of Eoldrai¡¯s level and abilities, as described by the system, bolstered his spirit. Mediocrity was not in his nature; it¡¯s not what drove him to enroll in the Combat Pet Academy. He was determined to rise to the top¡ªto be the ss leader!

 Chapter 4

    C4 ¨C Eoldrai¡¯s Strength


    Jiao Yuanju was unfazed by the crowd¡¯s jeers. After all, he¡¯d been the butt of jokes since childhood more times than he could count.


    The green snake on his arm affectionately nuzzled against him. It seemed unremarkable, yet he was aware of its evolution.


    Phantom Snake. Jiao Yuanju might not have been familiar with the term, but its rarity and value were proof enough of its superiority over other pets.


    Jing Mowen sneered, ¡°If you insist on making things hard for yourself, don¡¯t me me for not holding back!¡±


    As he spoke, the Mighty Bear sprawled on the ground, its bulky and plump frame imposing.


    ¡°This is the perfect opportunity to test Eoldrai¡¯s abilities against this dim-witted bear,¡± Jiao Yuanju mused.


    With a gesture, Eoldrai intuitively leaped into the arena. Standing up, its half-meter length looked bizarre next to the ck bear. Its purple eyes fixed on the bear with a cold gaze, hissing menacingly.


    The audience was already murmuring in astonishment before the battlemenced.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t this green snake look somewhat different than usual?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, check out its scales and the patterns on its head. Could it be a variant of the green snake?¡±


    Jing Mowen was indifferent. To him, Jiao Yuanju was simply courting trouble. The role of ss 7¡¯s monitor was his and his alone!


    His inherent sense of superiority made Jing Mowen dismissive of Eoldrai. He was convinced the Mighty Bear could squash Eoldrai with a mere swipe.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let you make the first move. I wouldn¡¯t want you to say you couldn¡¯t handle a loss!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju replied with a smile, ¡°No problem.¡±


    Unlike the arrogant and foolish Jing Mowen, Jiao Yuanju was determined to leverage his own strength to vie for the position of ss monitor, and he was ready to give it his all.


    He silentlymanded Eoldrai, ¡°First skill, Fog of Darkness!¡±


    This was its sole dark attribute skill. Jiao Yuanju had never encountered a dark attribute pet before, but he understood that the Fog of Darkness was an ideal skill for obscuring vision.


    As expected, Eoldrai¡¯s belly swelled and it unleashed a massive cloud of ck mist into the arena. Within seconds, the mist enshrouded the Mighty Bear.


    Pei Chang was taken aback, ¡°What kind of skill is that?¡±


    Concerned for the students¡¯ safety, he swiftly activated the mini energy shield at the edge of the arena, a standard feature in every Combat Pet Academy. As the pale blue shield enveloped the space, it silenced all noise, leaving only the Battle Arena visible to onlookers.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±


    Jing Mowen shouted in rm. His sight waspletely obscured by the dark mist expelled by Eoldrai, leaving the Combat Pet Master disoriented.


    Jing Mowen rued his decision to let Jiao Yuanju strike first. Despite his impaired vision, he was aware of the arena¡¯s confines and certain that Jiao Yuanju had nowhere to hide.


    ¡°Mighty Bear, Explosive Attack!¡±


    With no other option, Jing Mowenmanded the Mighty Bear to pound the ground with raw power, causing it to charge blindly through the fog.


    Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t help but feel ted. He recognized Jing Mowen¡¯s overconfidence. The phantom snake was too elusive, and the Mighty Bear was effectively blind in the fog. Only he and Eoldrai remained unaffected, making the Mighty Bear an easy mark!


    In secret, Jiao Yuanju gave themand, ¡°Poison Teeth!¡±


    Eoldrai sprang into action, deftly climbing onto the Mighty Bear and delivering a venomous bite to its neck.


    The Mighty Bear, now bitten by Eoldrai, went into a frenzy, pounding the ground in a wild rage. Even in its subdued state, the beast¡¯s savage instincts persisted as it frantically sought the phantom snake.


    As the fog of darkness began to lift, its veil of total obscuritysted a mere ten seconds. The Mighty Bear¡¯s vision cleared just enough to spot Eoldrai, and itshed out with its ws in retaliation.


    In a fit of rage, Jing Mowen eximed, ¡°You little sneak, how dare you ambush me? You¡¯ll pay for this! Mighty Bear, unleash your power!¡±


    The Mighty Bear lunged at Eoldrai, who was slithering on the ground. The ground-targeted blow, powered by the Mighty Bear¡¯s formidable strength, threatened to reduce Eoldrai to pulp.


    By now, the spectators could clearly see the unfolding drama within the arena. They witnessed the heart-pounding spectacle.


    Many onlookers chuckled, ¡°Just like I said, no tactic will make a difference. The gap in their strength is too vast. Eoldrai, you think you can take on the Mighty Bear? Looks like you¡¯re about to be turned into mush this time!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju ignored thements around him, finding a sudden calm as hemanded with gravity, ¡°Eoldrai, vanish!¡±


    He had already expended two of his three skills, uncertain if the third would allow Eoldrai to make a safe escape.


    Then, a stunning moment unfolded: Eoldrai locked eyes with the Mighty Bear for two seconds before its form vanished into thin air.


    Jing Mowen could no longer contain his astonishment, blurting out, ¡°Where¡¯s the snake?¡±


    He hade to realize the full extent of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s pet¡¯s terror.


    Out of nowhere, Eoldrai reappeared atop the Mighty Bear¡¯s head, its gaze fixed on the bear, which instantly submitted. The once-formidable creaturey prostrate, too scared to move, emitting only a low, pitiful whine, evidently terrified of Eoldrai.


    ¡°My goodness, the green snake actually managed to defeat the Mighty Bear¡ªthat¡¯s absolutely incredible!¡±


    ¡°His green snake is incredibly strong. I had no idea it possessed such skills!¡±


    The crowd erupted into a buzz of disbelief, all taken aback by the sheer power of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s green snake.


    ¡°Bloodline Suppression!¡±


    Even Pei Chang, the homeroom teacher, was taken aback. In the world of Mutant Beasts, the hierarchy was rigid, akin to the innate fear a mouse has of a cat, stemming from their limited intelligence and an instinctual deference to those of a superior Bloodline Level. That this diminutive green snake could dominate the Mighty Bear was astounding!


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s connection with his pet meant he felt everything more acutely; he sensed the Mighty Bear¡¯s pleas for mercy, its eyes brimming with fear.


    ¡°The phantom snake has be formidable following its bloodline evolution!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was ted. The system had proven its might; just a single bottle of Evolution Elixir had utterly transformed Eoldrai!


    Meanwhile, Jing Mowen was left in shock, staring at the small green snake perched on the Mighty Bear¡¯s head, hisplexion turning ashen as he copsed to the ground.


    Pei Chang hastily deactivated the energy shield and dashed forward to assist Jing Mowen, his expression grave as he announced, ¡°He¡¯s been poisoned. The venom of this green snake is incredibly potent!¡±


    Typically, a Combat Pet¡¯s poison wouldn¡¯t affect its master, but Eoldrai¡¯s venom was exceptionally insidious. While the Mighty Bear was still holding on, Jing Mowen was the first to sumb to its effects.


    Jiao Yuanju was well aware he had stirred up trouble. He dashed over to Pei Chang¡¯s side and with a swift gesture, Eoldrai zipped onto him like a streak of lightning.


    Eoldrai appeared to grasp Jiao Yuanju¡¯s intent,tching onto Jing Mowen once more to deliver another bite!


    Pei Chang was taken aback. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°To detoxify him!¡± Jiao Yuanju exined.


    But within mere seconds, Eoldrai had circled back to Jiao Yuanju.


    The crowd¡¯s respect for Eoldrai deepened. Combat Pets were typically known for inflicting harm on the battlefield, yet Eoldrai had the ability to heal. The notion of a venomous snake that could neutralize its own poison was unheard of. This green snake was truly remarkable!


    Pei Chang gave Jiao Yuanju a meaningful look, his interest in the student growing by the minute.


    Jing Mowen watched in terror as Jiao Yuanju and his serpent kept their distance, as if fearing another potentially deadly bite.


    ¡°Teacher, I apologize,¡± Jiao Yuanju said, owning up to his error. He hadn¡¯t realized just how potent Eoldrai¡¯s venom was, and using Jing Mowen as a test subject was a rash decision.


    With a reassuring smile and a pat on the shoulder, Pei Chang addressed ss 7, ¡°Since Jiao Yuanju has emerged victorious, he is now the ss president of ss 7, with Zhen Heyi serving as vice president. Any objections?¡±


    Heads shook in unison, eyes fixed on Jiao Yuanju with newfound awe.


    ¡°You¡¯re all dismissed. From now on, there will be a Combat Pet theory ss each morning and afternoon. Make sure to attend!¡± Pei Chang announced before swiftly departing, intent on reporting the unusual mutation of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s Green Snake to his superiors.


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 Chapter 5

    C5 ¨C Father


    The students of ss 7 quickly dispersed since today was merely the first day of registration. There were no sses to attend, so they were free to head home.


    Jiao Yuanju was taken aback to see that Zhen Heyi, the vice ss monitor, hadn¡¯t budged. She was smiling at him, her beautiful face radiating warmth.


    Puzzled, Jiao Yuanju inquired, ¡°Is something the matter?¡±


    ¡°Oh, nothing much,¡± Zhen Heyi replied with a smile. ¡°I just think we should get acquainted.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju nodded in agreement. ¡°I¡¯m Jiao Yuanju,¡± he introduced himself sinctly.


    Zhen Heyi pondered for a moment before speaking up, ¡°Your snake seems unusual. Its abilities are beyond what a typical Mutant Beast possesses, and it appears to have multiple attributes!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s eyelids twitched. Zhen Heyi had observed his green snake so closely in such a short time. What was she getting at?


    ¡°Do you need something from me?¡± he asked.


    Zhen Heyi¡¯s smile turned sheepish as she responded, ¡°We just needed to introduce ourselves. See you around!¡± With that, she was the first to exit the arena.


    Jiao Yuanju didn¡¯t dwell on the encounter, instead, he turned his attention to Eoldrai, who was perched on his shoulder, looking somewhat bewildered, and he couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    Out of the blue, a chubby boy peeked in through the doorway. Seeing the coast was clear, he rushed in, his face alight with admiration. ¡°Branch leader, you¡¯re incredible. I want you to be my boss!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was momentarily dumbfounded, while the chubby boy spoke earnestly, ¡°My dad says I need to follow someone with real talent. ss monitor, please let me tag along!¡±


    Then, to Jiao Yuanju¡¯s surprise, the boy squatted down and clung to his leg. His cheeks quivered with earnestness, and he seemed quite pleased with himself.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s expression turned stern. What was this all about?


    ¡°Let go!¡± he demanded.


    The boy, whom Jiao Yuanju now knew as Fatty, was reluctant. ¡°So, will you be my boss?¡± he persisted.


    Realizing Fatty wasn¡¯t going to give up easily, Jiao Yuanju sighed and asked, ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    Fatty released his grip, grinning from ear to ear. ¡°I¡¯m Jing Haokuo, but you can call me Fatty!¡± he eximed with glee.


    Suddenly, Fatty¡¯s phone rang. He nced at the screen and said with a grave tone, ¡°Boss, I¡¯ve got to go. Something urgent hase up!¡±


    With that, he dashed out. Jiao Yuanju furrowed his brow, puzzled about what Fatty was up to.


    Zhen Heyi was lost in thought. She sensed that Jiao Yuanju had an ulterior motive for wanting to be the ss monitor, whereas Jing Mowen seemed to be doing it just to show off.


    ¡°So why does he want to be the ss monitor?¡±


    Even the usually astute Zhen Heyi was stumped by this question.


    A Bentley pulled up at the school¡¯s entrance. The elderly butler greeted her with a smile, calling out, ¡°Miss!¡±


    Zhen Heyi hurried into the car and asked with concern, ¡°Uncle Jing, what¡¯s the situation at the front line?¡±


    The butler replied with a serious expression, ¡°The area outside Honeywater is swarming with troops, along with a group of high-ranking Combat Pet Masters. Reports say the Mutant Beast tide is once again assaulting the city¡¯s defenses. ording to our data, the Mutant Beasts are bing increasingly formidable!¡±


    Confused, Zhen Heyi pressed, ¡°What exactly do you mean?¡±


    ¡°The Mutant Beasts are evolving. Those tamed by humans won¡¯t turn against us, but with the worsening conditions in the wilderness and the intensifying radiation, they¡¯re getting stronger. Over the past century, their collective strength has risen a notch!¡±


    The butler¡¯s words sent a chill through Zhen Heyi, and she grew anxious about her father on the front lines.


    The Bentley merged into the flow of the bustling city.


    Jiao Yuanju arrived back at his modest home, a cozy space of just a few dozen square meters, meticulously kept and inviting.


    His mother appeared to be still at work. Jiao Yuanju stepped into his parents¡¯ side room, where a tall many resting. The room was so silent that only his breaths and the asional cough could be heard, signaling the man¡¯s poor health.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s father was a mechanic, a profession held in high esteem. With technological progress, machines had taken over much of the manualbor, but their maintenance remained critical. Global upheavals had rendered sixty percent of thend as territories for formidable Mutant Beasts, making metal ore scarce. Thus, mechanics were in great demand by factories and corporations.


    Three years ago, his father lost a leg in a work-rted ident, incurring medical bills that soared into the tens of millions of Alliance Coins. It was his mother¡¯s sry that kept their family afloat.


    Jiao Yuanju stepped into the room and saw his father, eyes closed, breathing slowly. He smiled gently and said, ¡°Dad, I¡¯m home.¡±


    Jiao Huai¡¯s eyes flickered open at the sound of his voice, and a wan smile crossed his face. ¡°Take a seat,¡± he said to Jiao Yuanju.


    ¡°Dad, I¡¯ve been epted into Azure Academy.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s announcement caught Jiao Huai off guard. Eoldrai, seizing the moment, lifted its head from Jiao Yuanju¡¯s shoulder. Its purple gaze met Jiao Huai¡¯s, harboring no malice due to their master-servant bond.


    ¡°You ventured into the wilderness?¡± Jiao Huai asked, his voice shaking.


    Jiao Yuanju hung his head, remorseful. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for worrying you.¡±


    Jiao Huai patted his son¡¯s head and let out a weary sigh.


    A silence fell between them.


    Alone with his thoughts, Jiao Yuanju mulled over the day¡¯s events, still amazed. He had captured Eoldrai himself, and thanks to a vial of Evolution Elixir, its evolution had surpassed even his wildest expectations.


    ¡°System, do you have any more Evolution Elixir?¡±


    The allure of the Evolution Elixir¡¯s power was irresistible to Jiao Yuanju. In a world now divided into four nations, the professions remainedrgely unchanged. A Combat Pet Master was a symbol of wealth and prestige. With sufficient strength, he could earn the nation¡¯s esteem and, more importantly, secure the treatment his father needed.


    ¡°Alert: Youck the necessary blood points. Blood points can be acquired by defeating Mutant Beasts. The exchange panel has been activated for your convenience.¡±


    A nk panel materialized in Jiao Yuanju¡¯s mind, ready for use.


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 Chapter 6

    C6 ¨C The News of the Selection Competition


    Jiao Yuanju was aware that hisck of blood points meant he needed to hunt down a Mutant Beast.


    ¡°I need to find a way to venture into the wilderness. Eoldrai and I just aren¡¯t strong enough yet!¡±


    A true Combat Pet Master is incredibly powerful in their own right. As the pet evolves, so too does the master¡¯s strength. Indeed, Jiao Yuanju had noticed a significant enhancement in his sensory perception and reflexes following Eoldrai¡¯s first evolution.


    The following day, when Jiao Yuanju entered ss 7, the memory of Eoldrai¡¯s valiant disy lingered among many. Their ss monitor was undeniably formidable!


    Jing Mowen alone observed Jiao Yuanju in silence, his heart filled with deep-seated loathing. If not for Jiao Yuanju, he was convinced he would have been the ss monitor.


    But Jing Mowen was no fool. The previous day¡¯s demonstration of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s Combat Pet¡¯s prowess was not lost on him¡ªthe venom of that peculiar green snake had nearly imed his life.


    After considering the situation, Jing Mowen clenched his jaw, holding back his fury, and vowed coldly, ¡°I will find an opportunity for revenge!¡±


    Pei Chang¡¯s arrival was abrupt. He surveyed the room before his gaze settled on Jiao Yuanju and Zhen Heyi. He then dered, ¡°Today marks the beginning of sses. We¡¯ll have two theory sessions in the morning and two cultivation sessions in the afternoon. Starting today, everyone will begin learning wildernessbat skills from military instructors!¡±


    A chorus of despairing groans filled the room, quickly followed by a buzz of conversation. The Combat Pet Master¡¯s military training program was a rtively new educational approach, introduced within thest two years to address the formidable strength of Mutant Beasts, against which ordinary military forces paled inparison.


    Yet, even the most powerful Combat Pet Masters were vulnerable without their beast pets. Many had fallen in battle, leaving their pets to revert to their wild instincts and flee back to the wilderness. Consequently, all Combat Pet Masters academies now emphasized not only theoretical knowledge but also the development of personalbat skills to support military operations.


    Among the crowd, Jiao Yuanju remained unfazed, even pleased. This was exactly the opportunity he was looking for. If he could be selected to join the military, he¡¯d have the chance to y numerous Mutant Beasts. The beasts he killed could be exchanged for money. With enough strength, he¡¯d have a continuous flow of ie.


    What he craved most at this moment was power and wealth!


    Pei Chang observed the reactions of everyone, his gaze lingering on the ever-smiling Jiao Yuanju with a hint of curiosity. He could empathize with the children¡¯s aversion to hardship and understood why Zhen Heyi wasn¡¯t surprised¡ªher privileged upbringing had exposed her to such realities early on. But what was the reason behind Jiao Yuanju¡¯s joy?


    Pei Chang went on to announce, ¡°The second order of business: in two weeks, the school will host a Combat Pet Master selection tournament. The top ten winners will not only receive a cash prize, but they¡¯ll also have the chance to join a beast tamer squad, embarking on joint missions with the city¡¯s military forces!¡±


    This revtion left the entire ss speechless. Missions on the front lines were fraught with peril, yet they were the Combat Pet Master Academy¡¯s most enticing draw. Many military leaders had cut their teeth in such battles, and shining there meant catching the eye of the Puwhary Alliance.


    In a world where the global poption had drastically declined, Combat Pet Masters with formidable fighting prowess were the cornerstone of any military force. For those who distinguished themselves among their peers, the sky was the limit for their future prospects!


    Once Pei Chang had departed, their theory instructor took his ce, delving into the foundational principles andbat strategies of a Combat Pet Master. But Jiao Yuanju was too preupied with strategizing for top performance to pay attention.


    At the end of the lesson, Jing Mowen approached Jiao Yuanju with a menacing tone, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, this afternoon, do you have the guts to face off against my cousin?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju raised an eyebrow, ¡°And who might your cousin be?¡±


    ¡°I know this one!¡±


    The ss buzzed with excitement, ¡°Captain, his cousin is a celebrity in our year. He¡¯s the leader of ss 1, Jing Dehai. Rumor has it he¡¯s already an elite.¡±


    Brimming with pride, Jing Mowen boasted, ¡°My cousin is a prodigy. On his very first day, he took down all the toughs in ss 1. He¡¯s even got a pre-emptive invite from the principal. After the tournament, he¡¯s set to join the Combat Pet Squad!¡±


    The ss was taken aback¡ªJing Dehai was Jing Mowen¡¯s cousin, which exined his overconfidence!


    Suddenly, the looks cast toward Jiao Yuanju shifted from trust to a blend of disbelief and mockery.


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 Chapter 7

    C7 ¨C The Public Competition


    Zhen Heyi surveyed the raucous ssmates and rapped the table authoritatively. Her voice was cool but stern, ¡°This concerns Jiao Yuanju. Stop themotion. If things go south, who among you will step up to take responsibility?¡±


    The room fell silent at once. Azure Academy encouraged the development ofbat skills and character by allowing students topete in the arena, but only under the condition that they fought fairly, without the influence of powerful backers or underhanded tactics. The school turned a blind eye as long as no serious injuries urred.


    Yet,bat was inherently ruthless, especially when it involved pets from Mutant Beasts, known for their ferocity in battle. idental injuries or even deaths weremon. With teachers present, incidents were rare, but in unsanctioned duels, the rate of serious injury soared to sixty percent. Consequently, open challenges in the arena were rare, as the heat of battle could lead to idental killings.


    Jiao Yuanju remained quiet. He wasn¡¯t naturally aggressive, but Jing Mowen bore a grudge against him, and now his cousin had joined in the antagonism.


    Far from being timid, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s courage was evident from his willingness to risk hunting in the wilderness, a resolve that only strengthened with his enhancing system.


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s response was calm and sinct, and he fell silent again.


    The crowd erupted in excitement at his eptance of the challenge.


    ¡°The ss president has guts, taking on Jing Dehai from ss One. Jing Dehai is notorious, a formidable fighter who¡¯s already a legend on our school¡¯s leaderboard. Do you think our ss president stands a chance?¡±


    ¡°Keep it down. He¡¯s our ss president, after all! If he gets thrashed, it¡¯s on him.¡±


    The ssmates whispered among themselves, their expressions mocking.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s expression chilled, yet he held his tongue. He had quickly discerned theck of unity and disregard for rules among his peers¡ªboth the people and the ss were a mess.


    Zhen Heyi was the sole ally Jiao Yuanju had in that moment. Watching him, resolute and unafraid, she seemed to harbor a newfound emotion. In the face of adversity, he remainedposed. Was this the true Jiao Yuanju?


    Eoldrai abruptly rose to stand on Jiao Yuanju¡¯s shoulder, hissing with a forked tongue at the onlookers. Her purple pupils, seemingly from the depths of the cosmos, were void-like, profound, and icy!


    Instinctively, everyone mped their mouths shut and stumbled backward in terror, fearing Jiao Yuanju mightmand his pet to attack them. A wave of cold dread swept over them.


    Yet, Jing Mowen alone kept his mouth wide open.


    With a mocking sneer, he challenged, ¡°You think you can take us on? There¡¯s so many of us. Do you have the guts?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju simply turned away, giving them no heed.


    Before Jing Mowen¡¯sughter could burst forth, he felt a chill on his leg as a green snake swiftly slithered onto his shoulder, its cold gaze fixed on his face. The brush of its tongue against his cheek plunged him into a pit of icy despair.


    The others, witnessing Jing Mowen¡¯s ashen face, abruptly ceased their mockery.


    Eoldrai swiftly returned to Jiao Yuanju¡¯s shoulder. Jing Mowen, gripped by fear, retreated to his seat, silent.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s authority was well and truly cemented.


    Somehow, word of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s uing contest with Jing Dehai had spread like wildfire across Azure Academy. Many were eager to discover who Jiao Yuanju was, bold enough to confront a formidable figure like Jing Dehai.


    When Jing Dehai learned of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s eptance, he merely smirked with indifference. For him, it was merely aiding his cousin in squashing an ant.


    Conversely, the rest were astounded. Lei Sheng and Hong Yangqiu of ss Nine were particrly intrigued. Could the man challenging Jing Dehai be another undiscovered prodigy?


    ¡°We¡¯ll check out the match this afternoon. Even though we¡¯ve already aligned ourselves, we can¡¯t discount the chance of an underdog breaking into the top five. The schoolpetition¡¯s oue will tell,¡± they mused.


    The only one unphased was Xie Ziyu from ss Three, seemingly indifferent to the whole affair.


    Regardless, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s reputation had soared. A post titled ¡°Jing Dehai¡¯s Battle¡± had emerged in the school¡¯s group chat, garnering immense attention. Everyone was eagerly anticipating the afternoon¡¯s showdown.


    Before the afternoon sses began, thergest public arena at Azure Academy was nearly encircled by students from every ss, all eagerly anticipating the uing match.


    Every member of ss Seven had made it. Truthfully, it seemed as though the entire school had turned out for the event!


    A figure emerged slowly from the throng and took his ce in the arena. Dressed in a simple white shirt and trousers, he exuded an air of gentlemanliness. This was Jing Dehai.


    Surveying the empty stage, Jing Dehai felt a twinge of displeasure. It appeared that the ss 7 monitor hadn¡¯t given him a second thought. Clearly, Jiao Yuanju was in need of a lesson.


    Just then, Jiao Yuanju strolled in through the main entrance,posed and unruffled. A plump figure in the crowd perked up, dashed forward, and bellowed, ¡°Boss!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju cast a surprised nce at Jing Haokuo but remained silent.


    Jing Haokuo trailed behind Jiao Yuanju, watching him make his entrance. With a booming voice and unabashed enthusiasm, he cheered, ¡°Boss, you¡¯ve got this!¡±


    All eyes turned to the bold, self-assured fat man.


    Facing Jing Dehai, Jiao Yuanju spoke with a serene tone, ¡°So, you¡¯re challenging me?¡±


    With a smug grin, Jing Dehai responded, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be ttered? I¡¯m here on behalf of my cousin. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t go too hard on you.¡±


    As if a public challenge from Jing Dehai was, in itself, an honor for Jiao Yuanju.

 Chapter 8

    C8 ¨C A Dazzling Neer


    ¡°Who do you think you are?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    The crowd went dead silent, staring at Jiao Yuanju in disbelief. Was he really talking to Jing Dehai that way? Didn¡¯t he realize that Jing Dehai was already highly regarded by Krukshire¡¯s military?


    Only the chubby guy was yelling with excitement, ¡°That¡¯s my boss for you! I¡¯ve been itching to see someone take him down. Go on, beat him!¡±


    The crowd couldn¡¯t help but mock the fatty for his foolishness.


    Jing Dehai¡¯s smile turned icy as he warned, ¡°No one who speaks to me like that ever ends well.¡±


    Impatiently, Jiao Yuanju urged, ¡°Get on with it!¡±


    Jing Dehai remained silent. He tapped the peculiar pouch at his waist, and a one-meter-tall ck tiger leaped out. Its ck and white fur, paired with eerie light red eyes, looked otherworldly, especially with the faint mes flickering over its body.


    ¡°It¡¯s Jing Dehai¡¯s me tiger!¡±


    Excited screams erupted from the audience. The me tiger, a Mutant Beast born from a mutated tiger, was a sight to behold. The ck me tiger was especially rare and powerful. Jing Dehai had already proven his strength by defeating the top students from sses four, six, and eight, as well as the formidable Lei Sheng from ss nine. He was, without a doubt, the top contender at Azure Academy.


    Jiao Yuanju probably hadn¡¯t anticipated that his first challenge would be against Azure Academy¡¯s strongest, Jing Dehai.


    But Jiao Yuanju wasn¡¯t intimidated. His bond with Eoldrai gave him confidence in hisbat abilities.


    Eoldrai entered the ring, locking eyes with the me tiger in a standoff.


    ¡°You go first,¡± Jing Dehai said to Jiao Yuanju, smiling genuinely yet with an undertone of pride.


    Jiao Yuanju returned the smile. Jing Dehai was in for a surprise.


    ¡°Eoldrai, Fog of Darkness!¡±


    The green snake exhaled a thick ck mist, quickly enveloping the entire arena within seconds.


    Blinded, Jing Dehai could see nothing, and the me tiger roared in frustration. Surprised, he asked, ¡°What kind of ability is this?¡±


    He was no stranger to elemental-type pets with special abilities beyond mere strength and speed. But this ck fog was bizarrely peculiar.


    ¡°Still, it¡¯s the perfect cover for me!¡±


    With a sly grin, Jing Dehai vacated his spot¡­


    In the fog, Eoldrai darted about like a swift fish, and Jiao Yuanju immediately noticed Jing Dehai¡¯s actions.


    ¡°Poison Teeth!¡±manded Jiao Yuanju.


    Eoldrai lunged for a bite, but Jing Dehai was too quick. The me tiger at his back burst into a ze, batting Eoldrai away.


    A sense of imminent danger washed over Jiao Yuanju, an instinctual response from his enhanced physique. He instinctively punched to the left, shing with Jing Dehai¡¯s palm. Both men staggered back. Jing Dehai, shrouded in the eerie fog, couldn¡¯t see Jiao Yuanju clearly, yet his assault was thwarted.


    ¡°Do you possess an elite physique as well?¡±


    It wasmon knowledge that the mightier the pet, the more powerful the boost to its owner. Jing Dehai was evidently a formidable force in his own right. It was no surprise he wasn¡¯t intimidated by Jiao Yuanju. But Jiao Yuanju¡¯s senses had evolved significantly.


    His arm tingling, Jiao Yuanju was astounded by the sheer force. How could Jing Dehai be so strong?


    He was unaware that Jing Dehai had been honing his martial arts skills from a young age. Though Jiao Yuanju¡¯s senses were heightened, his strength remained unchanged.


    ¡°You¡¯re bound to lose,¡± Jing Dehai taunted with a coldugh.


    The ck tiger bypassed Eoldrai and unleashed a jet of fire toward Jiao Yuanju. Oddly, the mes snuffed out as soon as they appeared.


    Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t help but smile this time. His ace in the hole wasn¡¯t just Eoldrai¡¯s venom; it was his unique dark ability. The fog of darkness could neutralize any elemental attack. And it had another clever trick up its sleeve¡­


    The green snake materialized behind the me tiger, delivering a vicious bite. The tiger was instantly engulfed in fire.


    Meanwhile, Jiao Yuanju vanished into the ck fog with a smirk, sending Jing Dehai into a frenzy.


    Silently, the green snake reappeared on Jing Dehai¡¯s arm. By the time he perceived the threat, it was toote. The snake struck with a bite and then vanished as if it had be one with the fog.


    The me tiger copsed, devoid of strength.


    Jing Dehai was hit by a wave of dizziness and panic. He had been defeated!


    He was reluctant to ept it, but deep down, he knew victory was out of reach. The moment Jiao Yuanju¡¯s fog of darkness materialized, Jing Dehai¡¯s fate was sealed.


    His concession echoed throughout the venue, heard by all.


    As if on cue, the ck fog vanished into thin air at Jiao Yuanju¡¯s mere thought. He remained still, seemingly untouched by the battle. In contrast, the me tiger and Jing Dehaiy in disarray nearby.


    Lei Sheng and the others watched in stunned silence, their eyes wide with disbelief as they took in the sight of a defeated Jing Dehai and theposed Jiao Yuanju. It seemed impossible!


    With a nonchnt air, Jiao Yuanju hoisted Eoldrai onto his shoulder and stepped off the stage, his demeanor betraying no hint of the significant victory he had just imed over Azure Academy¡¯s top freshman. The mystery of what transpired within the fog of darkness only added to the aura of awe that now enveloped him.


    ¡°Our leader is invincible!¡± Fatty bellowed, his face beet-red with excitement. He had never imagined Jiao Yuanju would triumph!


    The crowd erupted into a frenzy of cheers and apuse.


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 Chapter 9

    C9 ¨C Lei Sheng¡¯s Challenge


    The entire seventh ss was buzzing with excitement. They whispered among themselves in a frenzy, ¡°The ss president actually beat Jing Dehai. Does that mean our ss president is now the top expert at Azure Academy?¡±


    As they watched the young man with his steady stride, a sense of awe washed over them. He was usually so unassuming, yet he had just taken down the toughest guy around. The girls couldn¡¯t contain their excitement, screaming as the whole room erupted in cheers for Jiao Yuanju!


    Fatty scrambled to keep up with Jiao Yuanju, bubbling with enthusiasm, ¡°Big brother, I, Jing Haokuo, am with you all the way! Wherever you go, I go!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju didn¡¯t respond, a look of pleasant surprise on his face.


    ¡°Master has defeated a valuable and rare Combat Pet, earning one blood point.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju eximed with delight, ¡°I can earn blood points by defeating others too!¡±


    The wilderness was fraught with peril, and Eoldrai had already reached the valuable and rare level. But the wilderness teemed with formidable Mutant Beasts. Their levels might not be high, but their sheer numbers were overwhelming. Without military support, the area was nothing short of a diatorial pit for the average person. Jiao Yuanju vividly remembered the moment he found Eoldrai, how the ferocious Mutant Beasts had shredded many people not far from him. In a desperate move, he had snatched up a green snake egg on the verge of hatching from the Green Snake Nest and fled.


    ¡°Could I then umte blood points by challenging others? I should at least try to exchange them for some new enhancing fluid. Eoldrai is still too vulnerable!¡±


    With a mind heavy with thoughts, Jiao Yuanju returned to ss 7, and the crowd quickly thinned out.


    On the tform, Lei Sheng and Hong Yangqiu helped Jing Dehai to his feet. His white shirt was stained and he remained silent.


    Lei Sheng said, struggling to believe, ¡°I never thought you¡¯d lose!¡±


    Hong Yangqiu, with a grave look, asked, ¡°What was that ck fog ability? What exactly happened in there?¡±


    Jing Dehai regained hisposure and spoke coolly, ¡°Better to steer clear of him. His strength and Combat Pet are beyond anything you can imagine.¡±


    Jing Dehai walked away, a picture of dejection, while the hot-headed Lei Sheng huffed, ¡°I¡¯m not buying it!¡±


    ss 7 clustered around their hero, Jiao Yuanju, as they made their way back to the ssroom. Fatty bellowed, ¡°Guys, how strong is our ss president, huh?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    The excitement was palpable among the students. Their ss leader, Jiao Yuanju, had just bested Jing Dehai from ss One¡ªdidn¡¯t that prove that ss Seven was superior?


    ¡°Are we going to listen to our ss leader from now on?¡± bellowed the chubby ssmate.


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°ss leader, we¡¯ll follow your lead from here on out!¡±


    ss Seven¡¯s unity surged, inspired by Jiao Yuanju¡¯s presence. Even Zhen Heyi couldn¡¯t help but sh Jiao Yuanju an enchanting smile. The only sour face belonged to Jing Mowen, whose pride took a hit after his cousin¡¯s defeat. How on earth was Jiao Yuanju so formidable?


    Unswayed by the adtion, Jiao Yuanju maintained his humble demeanor. ¡°Let¡¯s all head back to our seats and get ready for ss,¡± he said with a smile.


    Pei Chang walked in shortly after, immediately bestowing an approving nce upon Jiao Yuanju. Clearly, he was up to speed on the day¡¯s events and his esteem for the ss president had grown. With Jiao Yuanju¡¯s impressive performance even before the schoolpetition had kicked off, ss Seven was on track for outstanding achievements.


    At the end of the school day, Jiao Yuanju slung his backpack over his shoulder, ready to head out.


    But he was stopped in his tracks by two figures at the ssroom door, challenging him: ¡°Jiao Yuanju, beating Jing Dehai doesn¡¯t make you the king of Azure Academy. Do you have the guts to take us on?¡±


    Whispers rippled through ss Seven. ¡°Lei Sheng, Hong Yangqiu!¡±


    These two were well-known from the start of the term, notorious for their strength. Lei Sheng was the scion of the influential Lei Group in Krukshire, a leading business empire known for developing military mechaponents. Hong Yangqiu, though shrouded in mystery, clearly had a significant background to be in thepany of the likes of Jing Dehai and Lei Sheng.


    Were they here to stand up for Jing Dehai by challenging Jiao Yuanju?


    Jiao Yuanju remained silent. Despite the opportunity to earn blood points from a victory, he was not fond of their confrontational approach.


    ¡°I refuse.¡±


    With that, Jiao Yuanju stepped out of the ssroom.


    Lei Sheng¡¯s temper red instantly. ¡°You dare to turn me down?¡±


    With a smile, Jiao Yuanju replied, ¡°I¡¯ll fight if I want to; I don¡¯t need to ask for your permission.¡±


    A shadow fell over Lei Sheng¡¯s face, darkening his expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m putting down a bet of 20,000 Alliance Coins. I know you¡¯re in need of cash!¡±


    His gaze fixed on Jiao Yuanju, Lei Sheng seemed to have an intimate understanding of his opponent.


    The fatty was on the verge of hurling insults when he abruptly stopped, struck dumb.


    A buzz of excitement swept through the ssroom. Lei Sheng¡¯s wealth was legendary!


    Jiao Yuanju met his stare, a grin breaking out on his face. ¡°You¡¯re on!¡±


    With that, he headed for the arena, leaving Lei Sheng and Hong Yangqiu behind, both sporting knowing smiles.

 Chapter 10

    C10 ¨C Failure


    School had just let out, yet the arena hall was bustling with people. This was no ordinary arena; there were several public ones, but this one was special. Some sses had their final period as a practical session, where soldiers led students in hands-onbat training. That¡¯s why many lingered behind.


    As Lei Sheng and his group entered, recognition sparked among the onlookers. ¡°Look, isn¡¯t that Jiao Yuanju?¡± they whispered excitedly.


    Jiao Yuanju was a name now familiar to all. A neer with initially little renown, he had risen to fame by defeating Jing Dehai, the top Combat Pet master among the freshmen. Su Yun had be the talk of the school, earning the admiration of many.


    The crowd buzzed with spection upon seeing Jiao Yuanju and Lei Sheng arrive. ¡°Could they be gearing up for another match?¡± they wondered.


    The anticipation was palpable as Jiao Yuanju and Lei Sheng took their ces on the stage. The dozens of spectators were electrified, their ns to leave forgotten. A match between Jiao Yuanju and Lei Sheng was headline-worthy news!


    Phones were whipped out as many began to record the event.


    Lei Sheng spoke with a frosty edge, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, if you defeat me again, I will ept you with all my heart. I¡¯ll join the Combat Pet squad and respect you as my leader.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s eyes sparkled with amusement. ¡°Be sure you won¡¯t regret it,¡± he retorted with a grin.


    ¡°Let¡¯s get started!¡±


    Lei Sheng was eager, his fighting spirit surging. He hailed from a prestigious lineage and had been bested by Jing Dehai in the past. He wouldn¡¯t have given Jiao Yuanju a second nce if not for thetter¡¯s surprise victory over Jing Dehai.


    Without a word from Jiao Yuanju, Eoldrai leapt from his shoulder in perfect sync. Despite its modest half-meter length, its unusual purple eyes and the trio of red lines on its forehead lent it an air of regality.


    Lei Sheng tapped the ck pet bag at his waist, a renowned piece of top-tier spatial equipment in the country. Created with advanced spatial technology, it was a mini-universe designed specifically for housing beast pets. Even the most basic ck pet bag was valued at a hefty five hundred thousand Alliance Coins.


    A streak of ck light zipped by, revealing a ck Mutant Beast. It seemed unassuming, yet its power was formidable.


    ¡°Disy beast pet information!¡±


    Beast Pet: ck Wind Wolf


    Skills: Wind Bite, Wind de


    Current Level: Rare


    Type: Initial Evolution


    Owner: Lei Sheng


    Current Level: Elite


    Jiao Yuanju peered at the system interface in his mind, his expression inscrutable. No one could guess his thoughts.


    ¡°The battle is on the horizon. ck Wind Wolf versus Green Snake. Can Jiao Yuanju pull off aeback?¡±


    The surrounding crowd whipped out their cameras, cheering with excitement.


    Lei Shengmanded with an icy tone, ¡°Wind de!¡±


    He was confident, but not foolish enough to repeat the mistake of letting Jiao Yuanju strike first like Jing Dehai did. That would be a humiliating blunder!


    The ck Wind Wolf unleashed a ferocious howl as six green beams burst forth from its jaws!


    ¡°Eoldrai!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju silentlymanded. Eoldrai, having undergone its first special evolution, was an amalgam of dark, wind, and poison attributes. Its speed rivaled that of lightning, easily evading the Wind des. As they struck the arena¡¯s edge, an unseen force dissolved them.


    Jiao Yuanju was about tomand Eoldrai to release the fog of darkness when more Wind des came slicing through the air, forcing Eoldrai to dodge once more.


    Lei Sheng¡¯s sneer cut through the tension, ¡°Trying to trap me in in sight? ck Wind Wolf, Wind Bite!¡±


    In a sh, the ck Wind Wolf lunged. Eoldrai was swift, but not purely of the wind element. Within two seconds, the ck Wind Wolf had closed in, its maw gaping, poised to cleave Eoldrai in two.


    Yet, Jiao Yuanju remained calm, contemting his next move.


    With a sudden bound, the green snake vaulted over the ck Wind Wolf¡¯s assault. Its poison teeth bared, it aimed for a venomous strike.


    The ck Wind Wolf recoiled swiftly, and the twobat pets faced off once again.


    Then, seizing the moment, Jiao Yuanjumanded, ¡°Fog of darkness!¡±


    Eoldrai¡¯s belly ballooned as it began to expel an inky ck mist. Clearly, Eoldrai was at her most formidable when shrouded in darkness.


    ¡°I knew you¡¯d pull something like this!¡±


    Lei Sheng¡¯s malice was hidden from view as the ck Wind Wolf suddenly unleashed seven Wind des, cutting off all of Eoldrai¡¯s escape paths!


    ¡°Is the Snake King going to be defeated?¡±


    Spectators gasped in disbelief. They had dubbed Jiao Yuanju the Snake King for his rise to fame at Azure Academy with just an ordinary green snake, earning him the illustrious title.


    The Wind des struck the green snake, now a blur within the fog of darkness, and detonated in a burst of force!


    ¡°Good heavens, did that green snake just perish like that?¡±


    ¡°The Snake King has fallen. Does this make Lei Sheng the new top contender of Azure Academy?¡±


    Sympathy washed over the crowd for Jiao Yuanju. The Snake King¡¯s fame hadsted barely a day before his downfall, his pet in. It seemed his moment in the spotlight was fleeting.


    ¡°The Snake King is insignificant!¡±


    A triumphant grin finally broke across Lei Sheng¡¯s face.


    Suddenly, several streams of ck smoke surged from the fog, targeting the ck Wind Wolf.


    The ck Wind Wolfshed out in fury at a wisp of smoke, which dissipated instantly, but another elerated, revealing Eoldrai¡¯s silhouette. It sank its teeth into the wolf¡¯s back.


    The ck Wind Wolf frantically twisted to retaliate, but Eoldrai had already darted away like a bolt of lightning.


    ¡°What?¡±


    The crowd was stunned by the turn of events, Lei Sheng¡¯s face a picture of astonishment.


    Poison had taken hold of the ck Wind Wolf, and the match¡¯s victor was clear.


    Jiao Yuanju himself was struggling to keep up. What ability was that?


    ¡°System Alert: That was a tactical maneuver autonomously executed by the pet, not an innate ability.¡±


    Watching Eoldrai nuzzle him affectionately, Jiao Yuanju marveled at the creature¡¯s cunning use of strategy.


    Once Lei Sheng had cured the ck Wind Wolf of its poison, he stowed it away. He pulled out twenty thousand Alliance Coins from his backpack with a stony expression and strode off, eager to leave the scene. The looks from the surrounding crowd fueled his rage; he couldn¡¯t stand being bested by Jiao Yuanju¡ªan ordinary man!


    Having witnessed it all, Hong Yangqiu was inwardly shaken, yet he kept his silence. He cast a meaningful nce at Jiao Yuanju before departing with Lei Sheng.


    Jiao Yuanju stashed the money in his backpack, a look of contentment on his face. He had made the money he was due. Upon seeing the ¡°2¡± disyed as blood points on his system panel, he sensed it was a night to take action. Little did he know, the evening¡¯s skirmish had propelled his fame to new heights at Azure Academy.


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 Chapter 11

    C11 ¨C The Operation in the Wilderness


    The same deste streetsy near the eerie energy gate, just as before. It wasn¡¯t that people didn¡¯t want to live here; they were simply too afraid.


    This was Krukshire¡¯s sole chaotic wilderness zone, safeguarded by the enigmatic technology of the light screen, which halted the advance of Mutant Beasts. With no need for military presence, the area was left to its own devices, providing a lifeline for the impoverished majority and the numerous merchants. This unguarded passage was vital, for the city¡¯s growth hinged on the resources these traders and citizens brought in from the wilderness.


    Jiao Yuanju once again arrived solo, keeping his visit a secret even from his parents. The Enhancing System was his most guarded secret, for its exposure could spell disaster for him and his family. Unable to exin his newfound abilities, Jiao Yuanju faced his challenges in silence. With his father¡¯s leg in need of treatment and his genius sister¡¯s need for financial support, he was determined not to be a burden and to shoulder the responsibilities himself.


    Apanied by Eoldrai, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s nerves settled. He approached the diminutive blue energy gate at the base of the towering steel city wall, hundreds of meters high.


    The area teemed with people in a frenzy, mostly terrified merchants and the asional Combat Pet Master. While Combat Pet Mastery was a revered profession, many here were mere beast hunters, mercenaries for the wealthy, capturing Mutant Beasts and snatching their young to sell for a hefty sum within the city walls. It was an all-toomon sight.


    Suspicion hung in the air; trust was a luxury few could afford. The characters that frequented this ce were of dubious nature, but within the city¡¯s embrace, none dared to misbehave. The military¡¯s indifference did not equate to ignorance; their eyes were everywhere.


    Jiao Yuanju, a mere teenager, drew many curious nces.


    What business could a boy have in such a perilous ce? They wondered if he was seeking his own end.


    Yet, no one intervened. The stark divide between the city¡¯s interior and exterior was a reflection of the world¡¯s harsh realities.


    Silently, Jiao Yuanju crossed the threshold of the light screen. The night sky, a dark canvas overhead, contrasted sharply with the scene beyond the gate. Inside the city¡¯s towering walls, the moon shone with undiminished brilliance, its silver glow casting rity over thendscape. The wilderness stretched endlessly, a tangle of weeds and dense trees. In the distance, hurried figures approached, and the shimmering eyes of various mutated creatures glinted in the dark. But those that lurked so close to the city¡¯s walls posed no real threat to humanity.


    Jiao Yuanju steeled his nerves and pressed on. As darkness enveloped thend, even the most intrepid city dwellers and wanderers refrained from venturing out. The wilderness was teeming with formidable Mutant Beasts that bred rapidly and in great numbers. For centuries, these fearsome creatures had been the primary barrier preventing humans from reiming the wilds. With restrictions on using high-end weaponry, the military was bound to the safety of human settlements.


    Before long, Eoldrai leapt from Jiao Yuanju¡¯s shoulder, clearly having spotted its prey.


    ¡°System alert: A Mutant Beast is drawing near.¡±


    A wild cat emerged atop a tree, fixing a cold gaze on Jiao Yuanju and emitting a menacing growl. The feline¡¯s instincts were now fully awakened¡ªthey craved flesh!


    ¡°Eoldrai!¡± Jiao Yuanju¡¯s voice betrayed his rm. He was acutely aware that any encounter with a Mutant Beast could be lethal.


    Without hesitation, Eoldrai ascended the tree, ready to face off with the wild cat.


    Species: ck Cat


    Skills: Biting, Quick Kill


    Type: Normal


    No evolution


    Eoldrai was more than a match for it!


    ¡°Eoldrai, poison teeth!¡±


    In a sh, Eoldrai lunged at the ck cat, which had no chance to flee. After a piercing shriek, the caty motionless.


    Jiao Yuanju remainedposed, his calmness unshaken even by his first kill of a Mutant Beast.


    ¡°You have in an average level Mutant Beast and earned one blood point.¡±


    A smile crept across Jiao Yuanju¡¯s face; he was fulfilling his purpose. Gathering blood points would allow Eoldrai to evolve further, to grow ever stronger.


    ¡°Eoldrai!¡± he called.


    They cautiously made their way toward a distant road, navigating through ruins that marked the path.


    ¡°There¡¯s a disturbance!¡±


    Having been simultaneously enhanced with Eoldrai, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s senses now far exceeded those of a normal human. They took cover behind an ancient stone tform, camouged by the surrounding stones and weeds.


    A red wild boar, several half-meter-long ck centipedes, and numerous rats as big as watermelons came into view, their gics long since altered. While some Mutant Beasts were skittish, many were viciously aggressive. The radiation had seemingly spurred a second evolution, casting them back to a primeval state.


    ¡°There are too many average Mutant Beasts; Eoldrai might not be able to handle them all!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju felt a surge of panic, yet hepelled himself to remainposed. It was evident that he waspletely encircled by the creatures!

 Chapter 12

    C12 ¨C Special Forces


    Jiao Yuanju checked his blood points and realized he had umted eight. After ounting for the two he earned at school, it meant he and Eoldrai had taken down six weak Mutant Beasts,ting six blood points in the process.


    ¡°Defeating an ordinary Mutant Beasts me one blood point, and it takes a valuable and rare Combat Pet to earn the same. The payoff from hunting Mutant Beasts is maximized!¡± he mused.


    The distinction between ying Mutant Beasts and besting Combat Pets was clear. What Jiao hadn¡¯t anticipated was that the gains from taking down a regr Mutant Beast could match the rewards of a single duel with Jing Dehai. If he wanted to rack up blood points fast, a killing spree was the only express route!


    Yet, Jiao harbored some doubts. He wondered how many blood points a valuable and rare Mutant Beast would yield.


    As the growls of approaching beasts grew louder, Jiao could sense Eoldrai¡¯s restlessness. Clearly, Eoldrai wasn¡¯t strong enough to handle such a multitude of beasts. But there was no time for regrets; Jiao had ventured too far into the wilderness for the first time, and now, there was no choice but to fight.


    Clutching his fruit knife, Jiao listened intently to the beasts¡¯ movements. A sense of dread washed over him, and hemanded, ¡°Eoldrai, Fog of Darkness!¡±


    The night was already an ally inbat, but the fog was for protection. Through the encroaching mist, he spotted several beasts charging towards them, the first being a wild boar with menacingly long tusks and a fierce gaze.


    In a sh, Eoldrai materialized above the boar, its sharp fangs piercing the creature¡¯s skull and eliciting a thunderous scream. The boar, in a frenzy, attempted to flee, but its limited intelligence only led to chaotic scrambling.


    Then came the centipedes, the true adversaries. Their dark, glossy shells indicated not only their toughness but also their deadly venom.


    Jiao remained calm amidst the chaos; panic served no purpose. Alone, he took cover in the veil of darkness. The centipedes hesitated to plunge into the fog, instead targeting Eoldrai, who was deftly maneuvering on the ground.


    Based on the system¡¯s analysis, the centipedes¡¯ potencyy in their venom; theirrge size wasn¡¯t particrly remarkable. Eoldrai, however, was at a loss on how tobat them. Given Eoldrai¡¯s small stature, it fell to Jiao Yuanju to take down the centipedes.


    Jiao Yuanju sprang into action, his speed and strength far exceeding that of an average person, his power formidable. He stomped on the back of one centipede, feeling the enormous writhing force beneath his foot. The centipede¡¯s shell was tough, its constant wriggling nearly causing him to lose his bnce. Sweat beaded on his forehead in response to the struggle.


    The centipede underfoot contorted its body, desperately trying to escape. The collective strength of its hundred 16-centimeter legs was beyond words. Resolute, Jiao Yuanju shut his eyes, gripped his dagger firmly, and plunged it into the centipede¡¯s armored back.


    A spray of green fluid erupted, emitting a foul odor. The centipede continued to thrash. Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Jiao Yuanju repeatedly stabbed the creature, drenched in a cold sweat, his hands slick with the vile green liquid, a sensation he found utterly repulsive.


    As the other two centipedes charged at him, Jiao Yuanju, emboldened by his initial victory, pushed past his fear and tackled them head-on. Despite their evolution, the centipedes were no match for a human¡¯s might.


    Nearby, Eoldrai dispatched the giant rats with ease, itsbat prowess at a valuable and rare level, making short work of the average Mutant Beasts.


    ¡°You have killed a Mutant Beast. Blood points +1.¡±


    ¡°You have killed a Mutant Beast. Blood points +1.¡±


    ¡°You have killed a Mutant Beast. Blood points +1.¡±


    The system notifications chimed in session as Eoldrai eliminated several Mutant Beasts. Returning to Jiao Yuanju¡¯s side, Eoldrai was visibly shaken, his body slick with sweat. This brutal, bloody battle against the Mutant Beasts was a first for him. Memories of the city¡¯sfort washed over him, leaving him with aplex mix of emotions.


    They might be oblivious to the hardships of life beyond the city walls. Within the city¡¯s sanctuary, the civilized era¡¯s routines persisted, many spending half their lives sheltered from the outside world. Few were aware that the era of civilization had passed; the world outside was the stark reality. Humans imed less than a fifth of the¡¯snd, the rest a haven for a myriad of evolved creatures.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s excitement peaked when the exchange panel finally activated, revealing the enhancing fluid!


    Just then, a blinding light burst from the distance, apanied by a stern shout, ¡°Captain, there¡¯s a scent of blood up ahead. Looks like a few weak Mutant Beasts have died!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju snapped to attention.


    A seven-person squad was approaching, the leader signaling for silence. A green wild wolf, Eoldrai, snarled at a massive boulder.


    Jiao Yuanju cautiously extended his hand from behind the rock.


    ¡°Is there actually someone here?¡±


    Captain Pei Xiaobo exhaled with relief andmanded, ¡°Let¡¯s check it out!¡±


    As Jiao Yuanju emerged from his hiding spot, the team members stared in disbelief.


    Pei Xiaobo, taken aback, asked, ¡°Kid, what are you doing out here?¡±


    Surveying the group, Jiao Yuanju noted their robust presence and top-notch gear; they could be military. He quickly exined, ¡°I was with others searching for Mutant Beast eggs. But when we encountered a Mutant Beast, everyone scattered, and I was left to hide out here alone.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju shivered, his eyes wide with feigned terror. He was no stranger to the wilderness and was quite clever.


    The team¡¯s hearts went out to him. Pei Xiaobo gently patted Jiao Yuanju¡¯s shoulder, sayingpassionately, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be in the wilderness; it¡¯s far too dangerouspared to the city. We¡¯re on a mission and can¡¯t escort you back.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s eyes sparkled, sensing they were indeed soldiers.


    ¡°Could I apany you? I promise I won¡¯t be any trouble!¡±


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation and a nce at his team, Pei Xiaobo nodded in agreement.


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 Chapter 13

    C13 ¨C Conspiracy


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±


    The band of sturdy men were particrly protective of the young Jiao Yuanju. The more aware they became of the wilderness¡¯s perils, the more they resisted the idea of a youngster like Jiao Yuanju braving such dangers.


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju.¡±


    Pei Xiaobo, with a smile, inquired, ¡°Are you still attending school?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m at the Azure Academy.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s response was measured, yet it elicited surprise from Pei Xiaobo and the rest.


    One of them chuckled, ¡°Boss, talk about serendipity. You¡¯re heading to the Azure Academy in a couple of days to scout for the Krukshire First Unit. This kid¡¯s got potential!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo remained silent.


    Jiao Yuanju caught the implication immediately. What was happening? Was this man before him connected to Krukshire¡¯s military?


    Without a word, Jiao Yuanjumitted this to memory.


    Before they knew it, they had ventured deep into the forest. Though termed a forest, each tree soared dozens of meters high. They craned their necks, yet the treetops seemed beyond reach. Radiation had altered not just animals, but flora too. Gic evolution had spurred these beings to ascend to greater heights.


    As they trekked, Jiao Yuanjumanded the system, ¡°Extract the enhancing fluid!¡±


    ¡°Confirm extraction?¡±


    The system¡¯s voice resonated with a deep, otherworldly quality.


    ¡°Extract!¡±


    No sooner had Jiao Yuanju spoken than a small vial materialized in his grasp. The blue fluid within was the same that had facilitated Eoldrai¡¯s previous evolution. Frankly, Jiao Yuanju was eager to witness Eoldrai¡¯s transformation post-evolution.


    Turning away from the group, Jiao Yuanju swiftly administered the enhancing fluid to Eoldrai cradled in his arms. The creature seemed irresistibly drawn to it, rapidly consuming the entire contents.


    Afterward, Jiao Yuanju discreetly trailed the group, anticipating Eoldrai¡¯s metamorphosis.


    ¡°Hold up!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo came to an abrupt halt, his expression etched with caution. They stood upon a hillock, and the night enveloped them in an eerie stillness.


    ¡°Boss, there¡¯s nothing here,¡± a team member remarked, confounded.


    Pei Xiaobo shook his head, his tone grave, ¡°It¡¯s too silent here! Remember, in the wild, the night brings more activity, especially from Mutant Beasts. Let¡¯s not lose sight of our mission!¡±


    Every heart was shaken. Their mission?


    The Puwhary Alliance had united thest five or six nations of the Land of the Rising Sun, with humanity¡¯s habitable cities dwindling to just eighteen. Two days prior, Krukshire had been besieged by a horde of Mutant Beasts from both east and west. Several units, along with a multitude of mechas and Combat Pet Masters, had been dispatched to the front lines. To be cautious, they ventured to the northwest to inspect this deserted wilderness corridor, a ce rarely troubled by beast tides and thusrgely ignored by the military.


    Pei Xiaobo surveyed his surroundings with an icy gaze. His Blue Wolf, in sync with his movements, turned its attention in the same direction.


    Suddenly, a lion emerged, fixing Pei Xiaobo with a frosty stare.


    ¡°An elite-level Crazy Lion!¡±


    The group¡¯s eyelids twitched in response. Despite Combat Pet Masters being the most esteemed profession within the Puwhary Alliance, the reality was that most were quite ordinary. Powerfulbat pets were notoriously difficult to tame, and cultivating equally formidable Combat Pet Masters was an even rarer feat.


    Many were not strong enough on their own, and as theirbat pets grew in power, the bonds that held them together weakened. This imbnce could lead to abat pet turning on its master¡ªa fatal oue.


    Facing an elite-level Mutant Beast was a formidable challenge indeed!


    Their squad¡¯s captain was the only elite-level Combat Pet Master present, which should have been sufficient.


    But their relief was short-lived. A man in a ck robe emerged slowly from the underbrush, positioning himself behind the Crazy Lion. His cloak enveloped him, though the outline of a middle-aged man with a stern expression was discernible beneath.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± demanded Pei Xiaobo.


    Jiao Yuanju, no fool, discreetly stepped back, gauging the group¡¯s reaction while plotting his escape.


    The man in ck smiled. ¡°A group of prey, right here? Perfect timing¡ªI¡¯m weary. A few kills should provide some rxation. Perhaps I can even trade your heads for a bounty.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju shuddered at the man¡¯s ruthless words. Who was this person?


    Pei Xiaobo stepped back and asked coldly, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    With a rxed tone, the ck-robed man replied, ¡°Rumor has it there¡¯s a rare Beast King in these parts. I¡¯m not sure of its kind, but I¡¯ve drawn them here. I wonder, will the people in your city remain as untroubled as they are now?¡±


    The crowd felt a shiver run down their spines upon hearing that someone could actually entice and manipte Mutant Beasts. It was a dark plot against Krukshire!


    ¡°All units, on mymand¡ªcapture him!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo instantly issued the order, charging ahead with Eoldrai, the Green Wolf, at his side!


    The rest of the team drew their daggers and firearms, surging forward in a wave of determination!


    The figure in the ck robe let out a mockingugh, ¡°Crazy Lion, devour them!¡±


    The lion¡¯s eyes glinted with a savage, bloodthirsty chill as it leaped into action in the blink of an eye!


    Gripping the prism spike firmly, Pei Xiaobo aimed for the Crazy Lion¡¯s head with a swift, decisive thrust!


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 Chapter 14

    C14 ¨C Saving People


    The superiority of a valuable and rare beast was strikingly apparent. The Crazy Lion¡¯s gically evolved strength allowed it to effortlessly send the green wolf tumbling away with a mere swipe of its w. In contrast, Pei Xiaobo¡¯s Prism Spike barely prated half an inch into the Crazy Lion¡¯s flesh, a testament to its incredibly resilient muscles.


    Upon being pierced by the de, the Crazy Lion¡¯s eyes instantly reddened with fury. With a forceful strike, it sent Pei Xiaobo, despite his human agility, hurtling through the air. He crashed against a tree some ten meters distant, his bones feeling as if they were shattered.


    ¡°Boss!¡±


    The rest of the team, consumed by rage, drew their pistols and unleashed a hail of bullets on the Crazy Lion. Yet the bullets did little more than pierce its hide; they couldn¡¯t bring down the beast. The Crazy Lion lunged, eyes aze with bloodlust.


    Facing a valuable and rare mutant beast was perilous, even for these elite special forces.


    ¡°Kid, run for it! We can¡¯t look out for you anymore. Get as far away as you can. If you make it back to the city, you have to inform the Inspection Agency that someone¡¯s unleashing a beast tide to besiege the city!¡±


    Ni Xinyu, his eyes bloodshot with desperation, drew his short knife and charged at the Crazy Lion, bellowing, ¡°Monster!¡±


    Seeing Pei Xiaobo knocked aside, the others, driven by frenzy, threw themselves at the Crazy Lion.


    The man in ck, his face visible beneath his cloak, wore a look of unmasked scorn. With a casual flick of his finger, the Crazy Lion viciously wed and bit at them, as if he were the puppeteer behind its savagery.


    Jiao Yuanju watched the struggle unfold, his heart drowning in a tide of fear and anger. Mutant Beasts were formidable, which is why humans had sought to harness them. Yet, they had failed to realize that these mighty creatures were the very adversaries of humanity, the harbingers of death that barred their race from expanding into broader realms. Were they all doomed to perish?


    Eoldrai¡¯s emerald scales shimmered with increasing vibrancy. Yet, despite this, the enhancement serum didn¡¯t seem to trigger a second evolution.


    ¡°System notification: Enhancementplete. Combat strength information disyed.¡±


    Pet: Phantom Snake


    Gender: Female


    Attributes: Poison, Wind, Darkness


    Skills: Concealment, Poison Teeth, Fog of Darkness, Realization


    Current Level: Rare


    Evolution: Level Two Special Evolution (Iplete)


    Jiao Yuanju felt a twinge of disappointment. The word ¡°iplete¡± told him all he needed to know¡ªEoldrai hadn¡¯t undergone a second evolution. But it made sense; earning twenty blood points wasn¡¯t a tall order. If Eoldrai were to evolve again so effortlessly, he might not even believe it himself.


    ¡°Rare? Realization? Eoldrai has a new skill? What is this ability?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s eyes were fierce as he watched the melee unfolding before him with the Crazy Lion. Though he feared death, his humanity wouldn¡¯t allow him to stand by. These people must not die!


    The Crazy Lion let out a furious roar. The group was bloodied and battered, now sprawled on the ground. They stared in astonishment at the green snaketched onto the Crazy Lion.


    The man in the ck robe red at Jiao Yuanju with venomous hatred and snarled, ¡°You little punk, you dare to interfere? Then you can die too!¡±


    The ck-robed man lunged at Jiao Yuanju with ghostly speed.


    Jiao Yuanju turned and ran, well aware that although these people might be strong, they were no match for his Eoldrai in this situation. He had to create a diversion!


    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going? Get back here!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo, bloodied and struggling to his feet, watched in shock as the ck-robed man pursued Jiao Yuanju.


    The others caught their breath as the green snake relentlessly circled and struck at the Crazy Lion. Its speed was blinding, leaving the lion no chance to retaliate against the group.


    Atst, the Crazy Lion emitted a pitiful cry and copsed, its body turning ck¡ªa clear sign of snake venom. Eoldrai¡¯s venom had grown more potent since advancing to the rare level.


    The green snake spared no nce for the fallen; it darted into the underbrush, swiftly following Jiao Yuanju¡¯s trail.


    A few individuals clutched their wounds and huddled around Pei Xiaobo, their voicesced with panic as they asked, ¡°What do we do now?¡±


    These people were both moved and terrified. They had not anticipated that in their moment of dire need, a mere teenager would courageouslye to their rescue. The capabilities of the man in the ck robe remained enigmatic, yet his control over the Crazy Lion¡ªa valuable and rare Mutant Beast¡ªsuggested he was no less than an elite Combat Pet Master.


    Regaining hisposure, Pei Xiaobo gritted his teeth andmanded, ¡°Jing Le, you¡¯re with me. Everyone else, head back to Krukshire immediately and brief our superiors on the situation. It¡¯s highly probable that he¡¯s already drawing the beast tide here. Clearly, there¡¯s a human orchestrating this crisis!¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo and Jing Le quickly fashioned bandages from their torn clothing, then, armed with their military knives and guns, they charged into the jungle.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s stamina was impressive; he had been sprinting for miles, pursued by the ck-robed man.


    In a fit of rage, the ck-robed man flung a dagger at Jiao Yuanju!


    A surge of adrenaline spurred Jiao Yuanju to instinctively dive to the side, narrowly avoiding the de as it whizzed by his head.


    Drenched in a cold sweat and ashen-faced, Jiao Yuanju was nearly paralyzed with fear. Despite his intelligence, he was still just a sixteen-year-old boy. Out here, far from the safety of the city, in the deste wilderness, someone was truly out to end his life.


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 Chapter 15

    C15 ¨C Realization Ability


    At the brink of life and death, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s mind sharpened. He was acutely aware that fear was a luxury he couldn¡¯t afford¡ªif he didn¡¯t run, death was the only certainty.


    Jiao Yuanju sprinted wildly, his slight frame weaving through the forest, fragile yet resilient.


    The ck-robed man, an elite Combat Pet Master, seethed with frustration. He couldn¡¯t believe he was failing to best Jiao Yuanju.


    ¡°We can¡¯t pursue him any longer. The beast tide takes precedence!¡±


    With that, the ck-robed man turned back.


    Jiao Yuanju nced over his shoulder, his face paling at the sight. He had no choice but to double back.


    Midway, a green snake materialized from a tree next to the ck-robed man and sank its fangs into his arm.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Stumbling back in horror, the ck-robed man inspected the bite on his arm, his face darkening.


    Eoldrai, though not as physically formidable as otherbat pets, boasted deadly poison and an aptitude for stealth. It knew well that the man before it was its master¡¯s foe.


    Seeing Eoldrai¡¯s sessful strike, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s spirits soared. The urge to flee vanished; the poisoned man wouldn¡¯t get far.


    The ck-robed man, caught off guard by the young man¡¯s cunning, pped his pet bag. A fire lizard, towering at half a human¡¯s height and stretching over two meters, emerged and fixed its gaze on Eoldrai.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s eyes narrowed. The Crazy Lion from before was not his truebat pet¡ªthis fire lizard was.


    The ck-robed man¡¯s icy stare bore into Jiao Yuanju. Poisoned and desperate, he had only one option: capture the youth and force an antidote from him.


    ¡°Fire lizard, a valuable and rarebat pet,¡± Jiao Yuanju noted to himself.


    Suddenly, a rustling sound encircled them. Over a dozen massive rats and scorpions emerged from the underbrush, encircling the area.


    Inwardly, Jiao Yuanju roared, ¡°Eoldrai, Fog of Darkness!¡±


    On cue, Eoldrai expelled a billowing cloud of ck smoke that swiftly enveloped them.


    ¡°You think you can still pull a fast one? Fire lizard, unleash your Fire Charge!¡±


    At themand of the man in the ck robe, the fire lizard belched a torrent of mes, pushing back swathes of darkness. But Eoldrai was no ordinary creature; it was rare indeed.


    Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t fathom the man¡¯s n. Without realizing it, his fear had evaporated, reced by an eerie calm. His only thought was to fight his way out of the trap!


    The darkness was Eoldrai¡¯s domain!


    In the midst of the shadows, the fire lizard stood undaunted. The ck-robed figure scoffed, ¡°A mere green snake. It can¡¯t even pierce the armor of my Combat Pet. And yet it dares to bait me? You¡¯re as good as dead!¡±


    Disregarding Eoldrai, the fire lizard charged at Jiao Yuanju, its jaws dripping with ck saliva in a grotesque disy.


    It was then that Jiao Yuanju allowed himself a smile.


    From within the fog, a lethal w emerged. He couldn¡¯t identify the beast it belonged to, but under its grip, the fire lizard quivered in terror like a mere insect!


    Crack!


    The w struck with force, sttering blood in all directions. In an instant, the fire lizard was reduced to a pulp!


    The man in the ck robe, a witness to the carnage, shook with fear. The loss of his pet left him reeling, but the true horrory in the unknown entity within the fog. What was that monstrous creature? How could it be so colossal, so formidable? And how could this young man wield such power?


    As the fog cleared, Eoldrai slithered back onto Jiao Yuanju¡¯s shoulder, visibly drained from the exertion of its powers.


    Realization ¨C the power to make one¡¯s imagination manifest. Eoldrai had harnessed the fog of darkness to do just that.


    Jiao Yuanju eyed the ck-robed man, who, paralyzed with fear, began to retreat.


    ¡°Kid, you made it!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo and Jing Le had arrived. Upon spotting the ck-robed man, their eyes zed with a cold, murderous intent, though they kept their rage in check.


    Pei Xiaobo made no move to pursue the fleeing figure, aware that he was outmatched.


    ¡°Are you alright, Jiao Yuanju?¡±


    The two muscr men quickly closed in on Jiao Yuanju, concern etched on their faces. Feeling the weight of the ordeal, Jiao Yuanju replied, ¡°I¡¯m good. Let¡¯s head back.¡±


    The two of them spun around to survey the carnage scattered across the ground. The remains were a gruesome mix of fire lizards and giant rats. They couldn¡¯t help but nce at Jiao Yuanju, their eyes reflecting a mix of astonishment and contemtion. Had he been the one to y these creatures?


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju, I never imagined someone as young as you could be so formidable. Thank goodness you had your Combat Pet to take down the Crazy Lion. We¡¯d be goners without you!¡± They expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Jiao Yuanju. Without him, they would surely have perished.


    ¡°No need for thanks, brothers. You were ready to bring me along earlier. I couldn¡¯t possibly let you down!¡± Jiao Yuanju¡¯s earnest words touched them deeply. Jing Le responded, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, I won¡¯t forget this life-saving debt. Whatever challenges you face in the future, count on me to back you up fully!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo chuckled, ¡°Consider us your brothers from now on.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju replied with a hint of difort, ¡°But you don¡¯t seem that much younger than my dad.¡±


    ¡°How could we be your uncles after you¡¯ve saved our lives? ¡®Brothers¡¯ is just fine. Plus, there are a few guys on our team who are about your age!¡±


    Upon Jiao Yuanju¡¯s safe return to the city, he was greeted by the bustling yet peaceful streets, stirring a profound sense of emotion within him. He was acutely aware of life¡¯s fragility; it seemed hell and heaven were merely a wall apart.


    After bidding farewell to hispanions, Jiao Yuanju headed home alone as dawn approached. He found his mother asleep on the sofa and, with a pang of guilt, gently draped a nket over her. Then, he retreated to his room, curling up to sleep with Eoldrai.

 Chapter 16

    C16 ¨C College Battle


    The next morning, Jiao Yuanju was roused from sleep by his mother.


    In a flurry of concern, Jing Xiujie cried out, ¡°Son, where were youst night? Your father and I waited up for you all night!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju met his mother¡¯s weary eyes, dark circles etched beneath them, and a wave of guilt and sorrow washed over him. He reached out, sping her hand in apology. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mom. I didn¡¯t mean to worry you.¡±


    He remained silent about his whereabouts.


    His mother gazed at him, as if she had more to say, but ultimately held back. With a heavy sigh, she said, ¡°Breakfast is ready. You should head to school.¡±


    Out of the blue, Jiao Yuanju inquired, ¡°How¡¯s Jiao Qin doing?¡±


    At the mention of her daughter, Jing Xiujie¡¯s face lit up with pride, but her smile was short-lived as she let out another sigh. ¡°She¡¯s doing well, though she¡¯s been asking about your father and me.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju offered a small smile before he and Eoldrai set off.


    He was aware of Jiao Qin¡¯s disdain for him. A prodigy from a young age, his sister had always outshone him. A year his junior, she had already secured a 10,000 yuan schrship from their school two years prior. She had also received an invitation from the prestigious Riverdale Institute, one of the top eight universities in Puwhary, and had decisively bought her first pet to begin her studies there. The Riverdale Institute was renowned for nurturing formidable Combat Pet Masters, and her future seemed dazzlingly bright.


    Yet, as the chasm between them widened, she appeared even less inclined to acknowledge Jiao Yuanju, her exceedingly average brother. She had never shown much interest in him.


    Upon arriving at Azure Academy, Jiao Yuanju was taken aback by the borate setup that greeted him. The square brimmed with fresh flowers and balloons, while banners proimed, ¡°Wee Krukshire Naval Officers to Our School.¡±


    A dozen soldiers stood sentry outside the administration building, each as rigid as a spear.


    Nevertheless, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s entrance captured the attention of numerous onlookers.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the ss monitor of ss 7, Jiao Yuanju?¡±


    ¡°I believe it is!¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Jiao Yuanju defeat Lei Sheng¡¯s beast pet from ss 9 in a duelst night? Could it be that Jiao Yuanju is the strongest among our new students?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go check it out!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju gazed at the surrounding crowd, his expression one of bewilderment.


    There were even a few girls who shyly approached him to offer flowers. The change from just a day ago was staggering!


    It wasn¡¯t until Jiao Yuanju stumbled back into the ssroom that he realized everyone was already there. His homeroom teacher, Pei Chang, hade in early, and the entire ss was waiting for him.


    Pei Chang let out a relieved breath and said, ¡°ss president, take your seat quickly. We¡¯ve all been waiting for you!¡±


    No sooner had Jiao Yuanju settled into his seat than Jing Haokuo, the plump ssmate next to him, blurted out excitedly, ¡°Chief, we¡¯re about to select someone for the battle!¡±


    ¡°Battle?¡±


    Jing Haokuo, taken aback, exined, ¡°Today¡¯s the day of the inter-sspetition. The military is scouting for recruits. It¡¯s the perfect opportunity to gain fame and glory!¡±


    Pei Chang scanned the room and dered firmly, ¡°ss 7 will choose three representatives for the battle. Feel free to nominate candidates.¡±


    Instantly, all eyes turned to Jiao Yuanju.


    ¡°I nominate our ss president!¡±


    ¡°Same here!¡±


    With the exception of one, every student in the ss was in favor of Jiao Yuanju.


    Pei Chang smiled and announced, ¡°The first is Jiao Yuanju, and the second is Zhen Heyi. Are we in agreement?¡±


    The ss erupted into murmurs, their attention shifting to Zhen Heyi. With a graceful wave of her hand, a pale blue leopard materialized in the ssroom, startling everyone.


    ¡°The Lightning Leopard, a valuable and rare Combat Pet!¡±


    Pride tinged Zhen Heyi¡¯s adorable face.


    The ss burst into exmations: ¡°The Lightning Leopard is renowned for its speed. Capturing one is incredibly challenging, far more so than other valuable and rare Combat Pets!¡±


    Pei Chang chuckled and confirmed, ¡°Well, it looks like Zhen Heyi is our second choice.¡±


    ¡°Teacher!¡±


    Jing Mowen spoke up with assurance, ¡°There¡¯s no one better suited than me to be the third contender.¡±


    Those who had remained silent now chimed in, ¡°Absolutely, Teacher. Jing Mowen is the strongest after our ss president and vice president. He¡¯s the obvious choice for the third spot!¡±


    Jing Mowen¡¯s smile widened as he cast a challenging look at Jiao Yuanju. He was determined to join forces with Dehai on the battlefield and ensure Jiao Yuanju¡¯s downfall.


    Jiao Yuanju nced at the somewhat distracted Jing Haokuo and inquired, ¡°Are you interested in going?¡±


    Regretfully, Jing Haokuo responded, ¡°It¡¯s unfortunate that my Combat Petcks agility; I wasn¡¯t able to defeat Jing Dehai.¡±


    With a spark in his eyes, Jiao Yuanju raised his hand and dered, ¡°Teacher, I nominate Jing Haokuo for the task!¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± The room erupted in surprise, Jing Haokuo included. He never anticipated Jiao Yuanju would advocate for him.


    Jing Mowen was quick to protest, ¡°On what grounds? He lost to me!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju retorted with a smirk, ¡°You had your cousine after me for revenge, which clearly shows your malicious intent. I recall he even brought a knife that day.¡±


    The realization dawned on everyone. Indeed, Jing Mowen¡¯s actions had brought shame to ss 7, and his character was far frommendable.


    ¡°You can¡¯t use that to disqualify me, can you, ss teacher?!¡±


    Pei Chang, the ss teacher, gave Jiao Yuanju a disapproving look. ¡°Jiao Yuanju, this is inappropriate.¡±


    Unruffled, Jiao Yuanju replied, ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll pass my spot to him.¡±


    Pei Chang fell silent, aware that Jiao Yuanju represented ss 7¡¯s greatest hope. A victory for him could mean a promotion for Pei Chang. Besides, Jing Mowen¡¯s abilities paled inparison to Jiao Yuanju¡¯s; his chances of winning were slim.


    ¡°I back our ss president!¡± Pei Henwen led the chorus.


    ¡°I back our ss president!¡±


    The ss erupted in unified support, with Jiao Yuanju emerging as a beacon of inspiration. Left with little choice, Pei Chang conceded.

 Chapter 17

    C17 ¨C Beginning Battle


    When the trio from ss 7 arrived at the stadium, they found it already filled to capacity. Seated on the elevated tform were three individuals: the principal, Pei Dong, and two military officers donning their service caps.


    Pei Dong introduced them with fervor, ¡°These gentlemen are the captain and vice-captain of the Wolf Fang Special Ops Team from Krukshire. They represent the Krukshire military here to observe our event. Let¡¯s give them a warm wee!¡±


    All eyes turned to the two officers with curiosity. Jiao Yuanju was stunned to recognize Pei Xiaobo, whom he had just encountered the previous evening. ¡°Brother Pei?¡± he eximed.


    Jing Haokuo, puzzled, inquired, ¡°Boss, who are you calling out to?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± Jiao Yuanju dismissed.


    With earnest gratitude, Jing Haokuo expressed, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju responded with a smile, ¡°I believe in you. Since you¡¯re eager to showcase your skills, I¡¯m here to help!¡±


    Jing Haokuo was deeply moved, resolutely deciding to follow his leader¡¯smands.


    After Pei Dong¡¯s lengthy speech, he finally dered, ¡°Now, the ss representative will draw lots. In the first round, twenty sses willpete against each other, with the top ten emerging victorious.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju drew the number eight.


    ¡°I will now announce the matchups: number one versus number six, number four versus number three, and number eight versus number eleven.¡±


    Pei Chang spoke up in a panic, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, we¡¯re all relying on you!¡±


    Without a word, Jiao Yuanju turned to Zhen Heyi and Jing Haokuo and said, ¡°This is our first time working together. Tell me about your Combat Pets¡¯ abilities.¡±


    ¡°My Earth Boar has incredibly thick skin,¡± Jing Haokuo exined. ¡°It can execute a Sprint and Groundbreak.¡±


    Zhen Heyi added, ¡°My Lightning Leopard is swift. It can perform a Lightning Charge and unleash the Wrath of Thunder.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju listened intently, then directed, ¡°Haokuo, you lead the charge. I¡¯ll be in the middle, with the Lightning Leopard providing support. Let¡¯s move out!¡±


    Both of them stared at the unusuallyposed Jiao Yuanju, astonished. ¡°Aren¡¯t you nervous?¡± they asked.


    ¡°Why should I be?¡± Jiao Yuanju replied coolly.


    He was unlike those who had never ventured beyond the city limits. Compared to the life-and-death struggle of the night before, thispetition seemed trivial. Unbeknownst to him, overnight, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s mindset had shifted; he was bing increasingly steady and nimble.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s ss faced off against the Fifteenth ss. As Jiao Yuanju casually stepped onto the stage, the indolent green snake draped over his shoulder sent the opponents into a collective frenzy.


    ¡°The Snake King has arrived!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was at a loss for words. Who had dubbed him with that moniker?


    Despite their fear, the trio from the Fifteenth ss had no choice but to engage in battle.


    Their Combat Pets were a fiery rooster, a ck cat, and a deer.


    The System provided an automatic analysis:


    Name: me Turkey


    Attribute: Fire


    Skills: Fire Launch, Sharp w


    Evolution: Average


    Name: ck Cat


    Attribute: None


    Skills: Steel w, Bite


    Jiao Yuanju nced at Eoldrai, his rare-level Combat Pet, noting its formidable skills. In contrast, the others¡¯ Combat Pets seemed no more threatening than farm animals.


    ¡°Haokuo, take the lead!¡±


    Jing Haokuo was brimming with excitement. He pped his Combat Pet Bag, and out charged a massive brown boar, its fearsome tusks on full disy.


    ¡°Defeat them, Taddres!¡± Jing Haokuo cheered.


    Hearing the name, Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t help but draw parallels between Jing Haokuo¡¯s robust physique and his boar¡ªmaster and servant were indeed well-matched.


    True to its strength, the Earth Boar barreled into the fray, sending the antler-wielding Combat Pet flying with such force it couldn¡¯t rise again.


    The crowd watched in awe as the ck cat lunged at Eoldrai.


    Eoldrai darted out with the speed of lightning, outpacing the cat with ease!


    With a swift bite, Eoldrai mped onto the ck cat¡¯s neck and floored it!


    ¡°Don¡¯t harm it¡ªI surrender!¡± the owner cried out, knowing all too well the Snake King¡¯s venomous reputation.


    Meanwhile, the me Turkey made a beeline for Zhen Heyi, spewing mes in a fiery disy.


    Zhen Heyi simply smiled as her Lightning Leopard crackled with electric might, surging forward in a Lightning Charge.


    The me Turkey, looking rather foolish post-me burst, was promptly sent flying by the Lightning Leopard.


    The defeated trio pleaded for mercy, their faces etched with despair.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe how strong I am!¡± Jing Haokuo eximed, his self-praise eliciting a collective sigh from the audience.


    Jiao Yuanju and his team had indeed wrapped up their battle with remarkable speed.


    Soon after, the remaining matches concluded, with the most surprising oue being Xie Ziyu of the third ss finishing her battles second.


    Her status as an elite Combat Pet Master and her possession of a rare Combat Pet had everyone¡¯s eyes on her. Yet, aside from her role as ss monitor, she hardly stood out. Could she possibly be stronger than Jing Dehai and his peers?


    As the ten teams converged in the square, a palpable fighting spirit radiated from each group.


    Pei Xiaobo scanned the crowd and his gazended on Jiao Yuanju. Surprise washed over his face. ¡°Jiao!¡± he eximed.


    Jiao Yuanju responded with a smile and a nod to Pei Xiaobo, choosing to remain silent.


    The people on the stage were stunned. Pei Dong stared at Jiao Yuanju and Pei Xiaobo, his expression one of sheer disbelief. Pei Xiaobo knew Jiao Yuanju?


    Jing Dehai and the rest were equally astonished as they looked at Jiao Yuanju. They hadn¡¯t anticipated that he would be acquainted with the special forces captain from the Skysea Military District!


    Jing Haokuo watched Jiao Yuanju with excitement. ¡°Boss, you¡¯re incredibly strong!¡± he dered.


    The revtion sent a wave of shock through everyone on stage, followed by a sense of unease. Did Jiao Yuanju have some unknown influence behind him?


    Zhen Heyi observed Jiao Yuanju with growing curiosity.

 Chapter 18

    C18 ¨C Potential


    Pei Dong was utterly shocked, yet he managed to keep his astonishment hidden. He resolved to thoroughly investigate the student¡¯s background once the event concluded. The fact that the student was acquainted with the vicemander of Krukshire¡¯s elite squad was no small matter.


    As Pei Dong¡¯s thoughts raced, he proceeded with the announcements. ¡°For the second match, we¡¯ll have one-on-one battles. The remaining thirty contestants will be split into fifteen pairs. I will now announce the matchups.¡±


    The entire school buzzed with excitement, anticipating that this round would be decisive.


    To Jiao Yuanju¡¯s surprise, his next opponent was Lei Sheng, the very same he had battled the night before.


    Lei Sheng¡¯s mood was sour, his face dark with discontent. The news of their underhanded skirmish had spread like wildfire. He couldn¡¯t fathom how he, with his formidablebat prowess, had been so easily bested by Jiao Yuanju. And now, he was faced with a rematch.


    Observing Jiao Yuanju¡¯s confident smile, Lei Sheng sensed a new level ofposure and edge about him. Jiao Yuanju had seemed like a dull, unsharpened de before. Now, Lei Sheng realized, that de had honed its edge.


    ¡°Do you want topete against me?¡± Jiao Yuanju asked, his smile tinged with mockery.


    Lei Sheng¡¯s irritation red, and he dered, ¡°No, I concede!¡±


    The crowd was taken aback by Lei Sheng¡¯s swift surrender. They gasped in disbelief, never expecting the typically dominant Lei Sheng to yield so readily to the Snake King.


    The energy in the arena surged to new heights.


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju, unbeatable!¡±


    ¡°Captain, give it your all!¡±


    These cheers catapulted Jiao Yuanju to the spotlight, victorious even without a fight.


    The other matches garnered attention as well. Jing Dehai continued his dominant streak, with his me tiger swiftly overpowering thepetition.


    Hong Yangqiu shone in his own right. The reticent youth demonstrated his peculiar skills with finesse.


    His Combat Pet, a ck hawk perched on his shoulder, became the center of attention as the fightmenced. At Hong Yangqiu¡¯s whistle, the ck hawk unleashed seven Wind des, cutting off every avenue of escape for the adversary¡¯s Combat Pet, which bled profusely from the relentless assault.


    ¡°This match is a total snooze-fest!¡± Hong Yangqiu whispered to himself, audible only to his own ears. Contrary to what anyone would expect, he seemed utterly indifferent when left to his own devices.


    His gaze shifted to another battlefield, and his expression turned to one of utter shock. It was Xie Ziyu¡¯s arena.


    He wasn¡¯t the only one captivated; the entire crowd¡¯s attention was fixed on that battlefield.


    Arge dark purple spider dominated the scene.


    Xie Ziyu¡¯s adversary had a flying bird as their Combat Pet. It soared, circling overhead, relentlessly unleashing Wind des. Yet, the spider¡¯s agility defied everyone¡¯s expectations. It dodged with such speed that the Wind des couldn¡¯t touch it.


    Jiao Yuanju caught a glimpse of the battlefield and was astounded. Both the bird and the massive spider were valuable and rare Combat Pets. But Xie Ziyu¡¯s victory came far too swiftly.


    With a mere wave of her hand, the spider ejected an enormous web, ensnaring therge bird in an instant. Victory was hers.


    Xie Ziyu was strikingly beautiful, her icy expression unchanging as she serenely exited the stage. At sixteen or seventeen, her stature was tall andmanding.


    Apuse thundered throughout the venue!


    Beside Pei Xiaobo, the officer looked at the young girl with amazement. Turning to Pei Dong, he remarked with a smile, ¡°I had no idea your school harbored such a prodigy. To be an elite at such a tender age is impressive, but the decisiveness of these young talents is even moremendable!¡±


    Pei Dong beamed with joy. Officer Ding¡¯s praise all but guaranteed Azure Academy would receive military des this time around.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s attention returned to the battlefield where Jing Haokuo was drenched in sweat, directing his Earth Boar.


    The Earth Boar¡¯s Groundbreak skill had taken over half the arena, with terrifying spikes of earth erupting everywhere. The bird above refused to descend, no matter the provocation.


    ¡°Fatty, you think you can take me on?¡±


    The so-called fatty paid no mind to his taunting rival. He simply sat down and, to everyone¡¯s astonishment, fell asleep!


    ¡°What are you trying to pull?¡± his opponent demanded, frowning.


    The fatty offered no reply, but his snores grew louder and louder.


    Pei Dong¡¯s face flushed with embarrassment, yet there was no rule against sleeping in thepetition!


    The flight time for flying-type Mutant Beasts was finite, and they too could be exhausted. As one handler carefully allowed their Combat Pet to touch down, the Earth Boar and its heftypanion leapt into action. The sight of their two plump forms springing up left the crowd in awe.


    Then, the arena was suddenly filled with spikes, skewering the bird and leaving it a bloody mess.


    ¡°Boss, I won!¡± Jing Haokuo¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement. Bathed in the apuse from below, he felt, for the first time, that he was far from worthless.


    Jiao Yuanju simply smiled, watching Zhen Heyi and Jing Haokuo return in triumph.


    Now, only fifteenpetitors remained.


    After a brief exchange with Pei Dong, Principal Pei Xiaobo announced with a grin, ¡°The final match will be a free-for-all to test the students¡¯ overall skills. Rankings will be determined by the order of elimination!¡±


    The fifteen contestants ascended to the stage in session.


    ¡°Every member from Snake King¡¯s ss Seven is still in the game!¡±


    ¡°And there¡¯s Jing Dehai¡¯s ss One. The other one looks to be ss Three, led by the ss president, Xie Ziyu¡ªshe¡¯s a goddess!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget Hong Yangqiu¡¯s ss Sixteen. Out of these four, who¡¯s the strongest?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju stood poised in the arena, nked by Jing Haokuo and Zhen Heyi, their faces a picture of serenity.


    Across from them were Jing Dehai¡¯s team, and next to them, Xie Ziyu stood aloof in her ck attire.


    Catching sight of the opposing duo, Jing Haokuo remarked, ¡°Boss, looks like we¡¯re encircled!¡±

 Chapter 19

    C19 ¨C Strange Battle


    Jiao Yuanju simply smiled, his silence speaking volumes. With Eoldrai¡¯s advancement to the rare level, thepetition had lost its luster for him.


    Jing Dehai¡¯s voice was steady as he greeted, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, here we are again.¡±


    Once a figure of renown, Jing Dehai¡¯s star had faded, eclipsed by Jiao Yuanju. Yet, he managed to address Jiao Yuanju with a surprising equanimity.


    ¡°Why not have another go?¡± Jiao Yuanju suggested with a grin.


    A shadow crossed Jing Dehai¡¯s face, betraying his hesitation. Turning to Xie Ziyu, he proposed with a sly smile, ¡°This battle¡¯s a free-for-all. How about we team up, Xie Ziyu? Surely you aspire to lead the contenders.¡±


    Xie Ziyu gave him a cool look. ¡°It makes no difference who leads,¡± she replied icily.


    Hong Yangqiu remained silent, his gaze fixed on Jiao Yuanju.


    With a snort of defiance, Jing Dehai summoned his me tiger once more, challenging loudly, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, let¡¯s have at it again!¡±


    The crowd buzzed with excitement. Jing Dehai was once again throwing down the gauntlet to Jiao Yuanju!


    ¡°Boss, take him down,¡± Jing Haokuo urged with fervor. ¡°He¡¯s already been bested by you. Second ce is the best he can hope for!¡±


    To everyone¡¯s astonishment, Jiao Yuanju responded coolly, ¡°He¡¯s not even qualified for that.¡±


    A wave of shock rippled through the crowd. Jiao Yuanju had just dered Jing Dehai unworthy of second ce!


    With a dismissive smile, Jiao Yuanju said, ¡°All of you,e at once. Let¡¯s not waste time.¡±


    ¡°Insolent!¡± Jing Dehai¡¯s expression turned icy.


    Jiao Yuanju didn¡¯t mince words: ¡°Haokuo, Earth Boar, consider them all foes!¡±


    Jing Haokuo¡¯s face turned a fiery red with excitement, his fighting spirit ignited like never before.


    Pei Chang watched, dumbfounded, as Jing Dehai and his team¡¯s brows furrowed. They began to encircle the trio from ss 7, clearly intent on putting the brash Jiao Yuanju in his ce.


    Pei Chang had a sinking feeling about his prize money.


    Zhen Heyi watched the unfolding scene with intense anxiety. Angrily, she confronted Jiao Yuanju, ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju dered with utmost seriousness, ¡°Let¡¯s take them all down in one go!¡±


    Zhen Heyi found herself at a loss for words. It was her first time witnessing Jiao Yuanju¡¯s audaciousness!


    The audience erupted inughter, looking at Jiao Yuanju as if he were a fool.


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju is way too cocky!¡±


    ¡°Snake King only beat Jing Dehaist time by sheer luck.¡±


    Jing Mowen stood up, his excitement palpable, and bellowed, ¡°Crush him!¡±


    His outburst was met with an eerie silence from the entire Seven ss camp, including their homeroom teacher Pei Chang. Jing Mowen¡¯s face drained of color, and he quickly mmed up, but the contempt from his ssmates was palpable.


    Unfazed by the jeers, Jiao Yuanju instructed Zhen Heyi, ¡°Have the Lightning Leopard ready to strike from the shadows. I¡¯ll hold the center.¡±


    Eoldrai took to the air in an instant, its mouth releasing a thick, enigmatic fog of darkness.


    The fog dispersed swiftly, and a pale blue energy shield materialized over the arena, creating a barrier between thebatants and the spectators to prevent any coteral damage.


    The fog of darkness enveloped everyone.


    Jing Dehai¡¯s face twisted in concern. He nced at Hong Yangqiu and Xie Ziyu, saying, ¡°You both know there¡¯s something odd about his technique. We should join forces and attack!¡±


    To everyone¡¯s surprise, the usually reticent Hong Yangqiu pondered for a moment before nodding in agreement, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Xie Ziyu remained silent, and the other three held their tongues, aware of their own limitations.


    In the pitch ck, the me tiger let out a ferocious roar as a streak of fire cut through the darkness.


    An Earth Boar, armored in ck scales, charged headlong into the fray!


    A ck dog and a massive horn bull, Jing Dehai¡¯s Combat Pets,unched themselves at the Earth Boar.


    ¡°Analyzing system data!¡±


    Combat Pet: ck Dog


    Attributes: None


    Skills: Roar, Bite


    Combat Pet: Horn Bull


    Attributes: None


    Skills: Charge, Horn Attack


    With just a nce, Jiao Yuanju could discern the attributes of each person within the ck fog. His gaze lingered on Xie Ziyu and Hong Yangqiu, the duo shrouded in mystery.


    ¡°Lightning Leopard, charge with the speed of lightning!¡±


    Zhen Heyi was well aware that her Lightning Leopard was the powerhouse of her team.


    With a thunderous explosion, a bolt of lightning struck, catapulting the ck dog through the air, rendering it incapable of continuing the fight.


    The Earth Boar, too, was a force to be reckoned with. Its formidable fangs shed with the Horn Bull¡¯s sturdy horns amidst the ensuing chaos.


    Just then, Eoldrai vanished into thin air.


    Jing Dehai, with calcted precision, directed his me Tiger tounch a direct assault on Jiao Yuanju. His rage had been kept at bay, but his thirst for vengeance was clear¡ªif he was to exact retribution, he would ensure Jiao Yuanju was left with broken bones and severed sinews!


    ¡°What on earth is that?¡±


    From the shrouding fog of darkness, an immense w emerged, overshadowing the me Tiger and pressing down inexorably. The me Tiger issued a roar of sheer terror, facing a force beyond its ability to defy.


    Jing Dehai was suddenly ovee by excruciating pain, copsing alongside his Combat Pet.


    To the astonishment of all, Jing Dehai had been swiftly defeated in the veil of darkness!


    Several more cries of terror echoed as the Combat Pets roared, causing the energy shield around the arena to quiver momentarily.


    Shrouded in darkness, no one couldy eyes on Jiao Yuanju, yet he could see everyone else with rity.


    In an instant, only Xie Ziyu and Hong Yangqiu remained motionless on the field.


    Jing Haokuo and Zhen Heyi were utterly baffled as they witnessed a w materialize from the darkness, swatting their adversaries aside as if they were mere flies!

 Chapter 20

    C20 ¨C Snake King


    Hong Yangqiu¡¯s usually serene heart was seized by a flicker of panic. A loud noise had pierced the air, followed by an eerie silence. Yet, he remained engulfed in darkness, unable to discern anything around him.


    What had happened? In mere minutes, his opponents had been vanquished!


    Fists clenched, Hong Yangqiu stood resolute as the battle falcon on his shoulder gazed indifferently into the void. Xie Ziyu felt the same overwhelming pressure. She was aware of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s prowess, but his fearsome disy had surpassed her expectations. The fight had barelymenced!


    The ck fog lingered. Jiao Yuanju¡¯s skill promised three minutes of imprable darkness, and though it had begun to clear, Hong Yangqiu was too impatient to wait. He loathed the vulnerability of unseen eyes upon him, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s whereabouts eluding him. With resolve, heunched into action.


    The ck hawk soared from his shoulder, weaving swiftly through the mist, capable of crossing dozens of meters in the span of two seconds. Hong Yangqiu¡¯s heart lurched, and he bellowed, ¡°Flying Eagle, Wind de Combo!¡±


    With a mighty beat of its wings, the ck hawk unleashed a flurry of unseen Wind des into the shroud of night.


    The Earth Boar withstood the onught, copsing to the ground with a pained cry. Jing Haokuo, pale yet determined, locked eyes with his leader. ¡°Boss, it¡¯s all in your hands now!¡±


    Beside Jiao Yuanju, they glimpsed a terrifying w, its origin a mystery, but unmistakably a product of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s craft.


    Zhen Heyi was struck with awe. She cast a lingering nce at Jiao Yuanju and pressed on with the Lightning Leopard, probing the enemy¡¯s defenses on his behalf.


    Both she and Jing Haokuo realized that the oue of this match might have been sealed by Jiao Yuanju from the moment the ck fog rolled in.


    The Lightning Leopard, unable to reach the ck hawk above, instead bolted towards the colossal ck spider. Lightning streaked across the mountain, casting a silvery glow upon its form.


    Xie Ziyu remained still as stone. Her Combat Pet spider had not budged since the onset, a statue in form, yet its pointed fangs hinted at aplexity beyond the onlookers¡¯ assumptions.


    The ck hawk continued its swift flight, the surrounding ck fog dissipating more with each passing moment. Everyone present could now make out where the others were.


    Hong Yangqiu and Xie Ziyu refrained from assisting one another, seemingly intent on probing Jiao Yuanju.


    But it was Zhen Heyi who took action.


    ¡°Wrath of Thunder!¡± shemanded.


    Previously overlooked, Zhen Heyi suddenly unleashed the Lightning Leopard in front of the ck spider. The long-concealed, fearsome lightning streaked through the leopard¡¯s fur, unleashing a barrage of a dozen bolts at the ck spider.


    The stage was awash with the blinding brilliance of the lightning. Zhen Heyi was truly exceptional.


    Before Zhen Heyi could savor her triumph, the ck spider materialized. In an instant, countless fine threads ensnared the Lightning Leopard from all directions. The leopard¡¯s skin was sliced open, and it copsed, poisoned by the toxic spider silk. Xie Ziyu¡¯s ambush left Hong Yangqiu utterly stunned. Then, a shadow flickered, and Hong Yangqiu¡¯s sight blurred.


    Xie Ziyu, with a smile gracing her icy demeanor, watched as Jiao Yuanju and Qing She appeared before her. She had been the enigma from start to finish, never holding Hong Yangqiu or Jing Dehai in high regard. Without unting herbat prowess, she ensured that anyone who crossed into her strike zone was swiftly dealt with.


    Suddenly, an immense materialized around Jiao Yuanju, the very one the ck spider had been weaving in silence, now ready to ensnare its prey.


    The ck spider lunged at Jiao Yuanju with incredible speed, seemingly trapping him in a dire predicament.


    Just then, a ck hawk swooped down from the heavens.


    ¡°So, you¡¯ve finally decided to strike after waiting all this time,¡± Xie Ziyu mused.


    The ck spider, wary of the hawk¡¯s proximity, slowed its assault, fearing injury from the avian predator. As the hawk neared one meter above the ground, it veered sharply, unleashing several Wind des at the spider.


    ¡°Hong Yangqiu!¡± Xie Ziyu cried out, dodging with a look of sheer rm on her face. Then, to her astonishment, she noticed a small green snake on her arm, looking on with indifference. She had no idea when it had appeared, but the venom was already coursing through her.


    The ck spider copsed suddenly. Its shell was tough, resistant to any easy bite, but Jiao Yuanju had no intention of biting it anyway.


    As the ck fog cleared, it revealed the chaos strewn across the battlefield. Combat Pets and humans alike were downed, leaving only Xie Ziyu and Jiao Yuanju standing.


    A hush fell over the crowd, their eyes wide in stunned silence as they took in the eerie aftermath.


    Xie Ziyu swayed and started to fall, but Jiao Yuanju was quick to catch her, cradling her in his arms. He was taken aback by her sudden weakness, the poison having sapped her strength and left her limp in his embrace.


    Eoldrai acted swiftly to administer the antidote.


    With Xie Ziyu in his arms, Jiao Yuanju turned to the three speechless figures in the stands and offered a smile. ¡°Principal, it¡¯s time to announce the oue.¡±


    Principal Pei Dong snapped out of his shock. His mind was a whirlwind; the battle had been brutal. Though there were no fatalities, Jiao Yuanju stood alone as the victor.


    A different thought preupied everyone else. Hadn¡¯t they all joined forces against the trio from ss 7? Yet now, apart from Jiao Yuanju, they had all been defeated. His strength was undeniable.


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju takes first ce in thispetition. The remaining nine contestants will be ranked based on video yback. Jiao Yuanju will represent Azure Academy as the captain of the Skysea Army¡¯s Combat Pet Team. Congrattions to him!¡±


    The silencested but two seconds before cheers pierced the sky. The crowd rose to their feet, pping furiously. Their eyes were on Jiao Yuanju, the Snake King.


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 Chapter 21

    C21 ¨C Young Genius


    The medical team arrived swiftly, finding that the injuries sustained by the group were minor. Their pets, now bound by contract, were unharmed¡ªtheir Combat Pets¡¯ vitality incredibly robust, only faltering if their owner perished.


    As the medics approached Jiao Yuanju, they couldn¡¯t help but feel awkward at the sight of Xie Ziyu, who was clinging to him in a daze.


    ¡°Let us take care of your girlfriend. We¡¯ll make sure she gets the treatment she needs,¡± they assured him.


    With a gentle wink, the nurses coaxed Jiao Yuanju to pry Xie Ziyu¡¯s hands away.


    Jing Haokuo and the rest were unscathed.


    Grinning, Fatty teased Jiao Yuanju, ¡°Feels good to be held by the goddess, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju gave Jing Haokuo a p and responded coolly, ¡°She doesn¡¯t interest me.¡±


    ¡°I, for one, am quite taken with this sister-inw!¡± came another voice.


    Jiao Yuanju remained silent.


    Pei Xiaobo hurried over, hisughter booming. ¡°Jiao, you¡¯re more impressive than I thought!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju offered a smile, then turned his attention to another onlooker who had been intently watching him¡ªnone other than the high-ranking official from the Skysea Military District seated beside Pei Xiaobo.


    Pei Dong¡¯s eyes sparkled with recognition of the enigmatic bond between Jiao Yuanju and Pei Xiaobo.


    With a smile, he introduced, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, meet Yun Zhengchu, the Chief Military Instructor of the Skysea Military District and the esteemed captain of the Krukshire Team. He¡¯s looking to recruit exceptional students like you for military training.¡±


    Pei Xiaobo chimed in, ¡°I¡¯m the vice-captain of the Krukshire Team, and this is my captain.¡±


    Yun Zhengchu studied Jiao Yuanju for a moment before posing his question, ¡°Is your Combat Pet a gically mutated new species?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s heart raced at the inquiry, but he confidently replied, ¡°It appears to be a mutation. Its abilities have long surpassed those of any ordinary snake.¡±


    Yun Zhengchu dropped another bombshell, ¡°You were the one who took down those assants, weren¡¯t you?¡±


    Pei Dong and Pei Xiaobo froze, their gazes fixed on the prodigious neer with a mix of shock and admiration.


    With years of military wisdom under his belt, Yun Zhengchu knew talent when he saw it, even in a sixteen-year-old like Jiao Yuanju. Realizing this, Jiao Yuanju owned up to his actions without hesitation, ¡°Yes, that was me.¡±


    The three adults in attendance shuddered, ovee with emotion to the point of speechlessness. They understood the magnitude of the moment.


    Being a Combat Pet Master was a globally esteemed profession, yet high-level masters were scarce. Those at the Grandmaster level were national cornerstones. Mostpetitors brought valuable and rarebat pets, yet they fell effortlessly to Jiao Yuanju¡¯s prowess. This not only proved hisbat pets¡¯ strength but also that his psychic force was elite. In all of Krukshire, fewer than five Combat Pet Masters reached this level.


    A prodigious talent had emerged!


    This was the singr thought resonating in their minds.


    Yun Zhengchu, managing to contain his excitement, addressed Jiao Yuanju earnestly, ¡°As you¡¯re aware, the top ten among you will form a squad. You¡¯ll be qualified to support our military district inbat and enjoy the same benefits as regr soldiers. You can also redeem rewards with your merit points. But that¡¯s just the basics. I¡¯d like to extend an invitation for you to join Krukshire¡¯s Ace Combat Team. Are you interested?¡±


    ¡°The Ace Combat Team of Krukshire!¡±


    Pei Xiaobo was astounded. This was the cr¨¨me de cr¨¨me of Combat Pet Masters in Krukshire, a linchpin capable of withstanding repeatedrge-scale beast tides. The team was the elite of the elite, with its central figure rumored to be at the Grandmaster level. Joining the Ace Combat Team would surely ce him among the nation¡¯s corebat forces.


    Jiao Yuanju, equally stunned, quickly regained hisposure and inquired, ¡°Would I still be able to live a normal life?¡±


    Yun Zhengchu fell silent, reflecting before responding, ¡°Once you¡¯re part of the Ace Combat Team, you can¡¯t just appear in public at will. Our adversaries aren¡¯t limited to Mutant Beasts. You¡¯ll be a secret, continuing your training in a specialized military facility.¡±


    ¡°I refuse,¡± Jiao Yuanju dered, his tone resolute and calm. ¡°I won¡¯t do anything that sacrifices my freedom.¡±


    Pei Xiaobo couldn¡¯t contain himself, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, this is the chance of a lifetime, coveted by many but attained by few. You¡¯d have ess to the nation¡¯s resources for life. Plus, with your father¡¯s injuries, not only could this opportunity provide his cure, but your family would also gain round-the-clock military protection.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t surprising that Pei Xiaobo was familiar with Jiao Yuanju¡¯s background. A teenager with exceptional skills appearing out of nowhere in the wilderness would naturally draw attention. Pei Xiaobo had taken the initiative to look into it, and Jiao Yuanju¡¯s family was no secret, easily uncovered. Pei Xiaobo¡¯s desire for Jiao Yuanju to join their ranks was fueled by his knowledge of the family¡¯s struggles.


    Jiao Yuanju shook his head, his decision already firm in his heart. The enhancing system¡¯s wonders were just beginning to unfold, and he was confident that with his abilities, he could restore his family¡¯s happiness. The thought of losing his freedom at such a young age was unbearable for Jiao Yuanju. Besides, he couldn¡¯t risk the military discovering his capabilities¡ªthe oue would be disastrous.


    Yun Zhengchu sighed, respecting his choice, and didn¡¯t press further. He presented two items: a badge inscribed with ¡°Krukshire¡± and a small notebook.


    ¡°This is your team¡¯s official badge. As the first member, you¡¯re naturally the captain. This badge marks you as a formal member of the Combat Pet Team. As for this,¡± he said, handing over the notebook, ¡°have a look!¡± Yun Zhengchu teased, leaving Jiao Yuanju intrigued.

 Chapter 22

    C22 ¨C Phantom Team


    Jiao Yuanju stood in silence on the now-empty za. The sh had concluded, and sses had resumed, but they had already stepped beyond that realm.


    ncing at the small notebook in his hand, the word ¡°me¡± stood out boldly. It was his reward for rescuing Pei Xiaobo and the others and for uncovering the beast tide crisis¡ªa crisis orchestrated by someone. Pei Xiaobo had confided in him that beyond the city¡¯s bordersy chaos, with numerous human-established bases and powers.


    The meteor¡¯s devastation had obliterated many nations, and the survivors had banded together, forming an organization that sent shockwaves through the world. They called themselves ¡°new humans.¡± While Pei Xiaobo kept the details close to his chest, this revtion exposed Jiao Yuanju to the world¡¯s raw underbelly, hidden beneath the veneer of their seemingly tranquil lives.


    Yun Zhengchu had hastily upgraded his military rank after witnessing his participation in thepetition, thinking Jiao Yuanju might join the military. This token of appreciation, though small, could be immensely beneficial. Jiao Yuanju epted it without hesitation, fully aware of his own vulnerability and the transformative power of Eoldrai and the system he possessed.


    That conversation, however, had pivoted Jiao Yuanju¡¯s aspirations. Could he rise to be one of the nation¡¯s preeminent Combat Pet Masters?


    Each of the four Grandmasters of the Puwhary Alliance was a force to be reckoned with, a general in their own right.


    With these thoughts, Jing Dehai, Hong Yangqiu, and Lei Sheng approached with palpable animosity. Jing Haokuo, bursting with excitement, lunged at Jiao Yuanju eximing, ¡°Boss, how did you be so formidable?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju gently pushed him back, at a loss for words in the face of such unabashed admiration.


    Beside him, Zhen Heyi observed Jiao Yuanju with a newfound sense of estrangement and reverence. In that moment, he radiated the aura of a true leader.


    Three others, previously unknown to them and mere spectators during the battle, had also made it into the top ten by default. They had now joined Jiao Yuanju¡¯s squad, wisely choosing to remain silent.


    Xie Ziyu arrivedst, her face clouded with anger. She fixed Jiao Yuanju with a furious stare and demanded, ¡°What did you do to me?!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju replied in astonishment, ¡°I haven¡¯t done anything.¡±


    Jing Haokuo sidled up to Jiao Yuanju, grinning mischievously, and whispered, ¡°Boss, when that beauty fell into your arms, I don¡¯t believe for a second you kept your hands to yourself.¡±


    Watching the chubby man make faces at Jiao Yuanju, Xie Ziyu¡¯s rage intensified. She looked as though she wanted nothing more than to shred Jiao Yuanju on the spot!


    Clearing his throat, Jiao Yuanju spoke calmly, ¡°Now that we¡¯re all here, let¡¯s hear what I have to say.¡±


    At his words, the chatter ceased. Everyone¡¯s eyes were on Jiao Yuanju, fully aware that he was the captain of their Combat Pet team and the one calling the shots.


    Jiao Yuanju continued with a smile, ¡°Regardless of any past grudges, we all aim to join the army and build our futures, which makes us a team. Tomorrow, we¡¯ll join the army on the frontlines. However, our team is still unnamed.¡±


    His implication was clear: they were in this together, and it was time to put old grievances aside.


    Xie Ziyu¡¯s anger subsided, and she remained silent.


    The team seemed indifferent to their name, simply stating, ¡°You decide.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju turned to Zhen Heyi and the others, asking, ¡°What do you think our team should be called?¡±


    Jing Haokuo couldn¡¯t contain his excitement as he suggested, ¡°How about Snake King Team? Boss, wouldn¡¯t it be awesome to name it after you?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju nced at Eoldrai and proposed with a smile, ¡°Let¡¯s go with Phantom Team. But first, let¡¯s introduce ourselves.¡±


    Lei Sheng introduced himself, ¡°I¡¯m Lei Sheng.¡±


    ¡°Jing Dehai.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Hong Yangqiu.¡±


    ¡°Xie Ziyu.¡±


    ¡°Jing Haokuo.¡±


    ¡°Zhen Heyi.¡±


    Thest three added their names: ¡°Jing Junbo, Cao Jun, Rong Yichen.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju presented a badge, saying, ¡°This is our team emblem. We¡¯re not the only team from the Combat Pet Academies; three others have also joined the army. You¡¯re all dismissed for now. We won¡¯t have sses because our immediate task is toplete the missions assigned by the army. Let¡¯s meet here tomorrow morning. Any questions?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju spoke with grave seriousness, and not a single person challenged his statement.


    ¡°Then it¡¯s settled. I¡¯ll see everyone tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 23

    C23 ¨C New Strengthening Function


    Jiao Yuanju was in a rush to leave because an electronic voice had echoed in his mind: ¡°Congrattions on sessfully unlocking the Body Enhancement Panel and activating the Body Enhancement Function. As this is your first activation, you will receive aplimentary enhancement opportunity. Please select your enhancement option.¡±


    Having single-handedly defeated over a dozen opponents in the arena, Jiao Yuanju was exhausted, but his rewards were substantial. He had earned eight energy points, prompting the system to unlock a new panel for him.


    [Body Enhancement Options now avable: Strength Enhancing Fluid, Speed Enhancing Fluid, Bloodline Enhancing Fluid, and Perception Enhancing Fluid.]


    Jiao Yuanju was astounded by these four enhancement options. The system could actually enhance his body!


    ¡°Strength Enhancement!¡± he dered, deciding to test it out. A bottle of the fluid materialized in his hand, which he drank without a second thought. Soon, a warm sensation spread throughout his body, and he could feel himself growing stronger in a slow, extraordinary process.


    With a sudden punch, Jiao Yuanju realized his strength was immense, easily surpassing 150 pounds. What did that mean for a sixteen-year-old? It was almost inconceivable.


    Extremely pleased with the oue, Jiao Yuanju shared the news with his parents upon returning home, omitting his venture into the wilderness and simply stating that he had joined the Combat Pet Squad to support the military.


    His parents, far from ordinary, understood the significance of the Combat Pet Squad. Their son had a boundless future ahead of him! They spent half the night speaking with Jiao Yuanju, emphasizing the need for caution and urging him to strive harder to secure a ce in the military.


    All the while, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s gaze was fixed on the lower half of Jiao Huai¡¯s body.


    Meanwhile, in the wilderness, the night air was pierced by chilling wolf howls and the gruesomebat of massive beasts. The darkness was alive with carnage. The Mutant Beasts, having evolved, were now more formidable, throwing the natural order into chaos.


    In this new world, wild cats sometimes fell prey to mice, and fist-sized cockroaches and ants had be fearsome predators. Nothing was safe; even a towering two-meter bull could be devoured in mere minutes.


    In a valley encircled by innumerable Mutant Beasts, an array of modern machinery and energy shields created an imprable fortress.


    Scores of ck-robed figures paced the area¡ªsome on patrol, others feasting.


    Every so often, a gigantic rat would scurry by, only to be effortlessly snatched up by the figures, their mouths agape with a sinister red glow in their eyes as they gnawed on the living creature. They resembled demonic spirits cloaked in human flesh, their thirst for blood matched only by their ferocity.


    Within the base, a man knelt trembling on the ground. He was the ck-robed individual who hadmanded the Crazy Lion and narrowly escaped death at the hands of Jiao Yuanju.


    In a panic, the man stammered, ¡°Chief, I swear I had no part in this. I never anticipated an elite Combat Pet Master would be there, with such an unorthodox fighting style. He dispatched the Crazy Lion with a mere p and nearly captured me. The beast tide only lured a few thousand beasts to roam the area. But grant me another chance, and I assure you, I won¡¯t fail!¡±


    Another ck-robed figure extended a hand, its w-like skin shriveled as if belonging to a corpse, and adorned with fine scales along the arm.


    With a patronizing tap on the man¡¯s head, he sneered, ¡°You¡¯ve beenpromised. Do you think you could survive another beast tide summoning? We may be a branch, but we cannot afford to disgrace the organization. Take two level-two Mutant Beasts with you, but this time, we¡¯ll forego the beast tide.¡±


    The man looked up, bewildered. ¡°What¡¯s the n?¡±


    ¡°The lord of Krukshire has a granddaughter with modest talent, yet she¡¯s been seen around the barrackstely. I¡¯ve heard she might show up at the Mutant Beast battlefield in Sunrise Borough. It¡¯s the perfect chance to seize her. Those Mutant Beasts are a nuisance, and prating Krukshire would be ideal. I¡¯m tired of dwelling in those decrepit tribal settlements!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju and hispanions had been waiting outside Azure Academy for quite some time. Led by two military officers, they climbed aboard a military truck and made a beeline for the central military district of Krukshire.


    Jing Haokuo and hispanions were brimming with excitement. Every so often, he¡¯d gaze out at the city¡¯s skyscrapers and high-tech structures, eximing, ¡°I never imagined I¡¯d get to cruise the streets in a military vehicle in my lifetime. I¡¯m going to brag about this to my dad when I get back!¡±


    Zhen Heyi chuckled in response, ¡°How can you do that to your dad?¡±


    With a sly grin, Jing Haokuo replied, ¡°He¡¯s a no-nonsense kind of guy. He used to be a soldier and would always berate me for being azy fat pig. I can¡¯t wait to go back and unt my aplishments to him!¡±


    Jing Dehai and the other two came from prestigious families and seemed uninterested in such matters. They kept to themselves, not bothering to engage with Jiao Yuanju and his group. Clearly, they formed their own exclusive clique, and despite the team¡¯s formation, these three defiant individuals were reluctant to heed Jiao Yuanju¡¯smands.


    The most reserved of them all was Xie Ziyu. She sat in solitude in the spacious vehicle, eyes closed, exuding the aura of a detached princess.


    Jiao Yuanju, captivated by thendscape, reflected on his transformation. Just half a month earlier, he was a nondescript student, struggling to acquire a Combat Pet. But the events of the past few weeks had unveiled an entirely new world to him. Was he now entering a more enigmatic realm?


    Noticing Jiao Yuanju lost in thought, Zhen Heyi nudged Jing Haokuo with her foot, ¡°Haokuo, switch seats with me.¡±


    Bewildered at first, Jing Haokuo caught Zhen Heyi¡¯s lingering look towards Jiao Yuanju and quickly caught on. He moved aside, chuckling to himself.


    Beside him, Jing Junbo inquired with a puzzled look, ¡°What¡¯s so hrious? And why that sleazyugh?¡±


    Jing Haokuo shot him an eye roll and retorted, ¡°You¡¯re clueless!¡±

 Chapter 24

    C24 ¨C Gathering


    Jing Junbo was left in shock, wondering why he was being called an idiot.


    With a yful smile, Zhen Heyi gave Jiao Yuanju a light pat on the shoulder. ¡°Hey, boss, what¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    Snapping out of his reverie, Jiao Yuanju chuckled and shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. What¡¯s up, Zhen Heyi? Did you need me for something?¡±


    ncing at the group in the front row, Zhen Heyi¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°We¡¯ve got our team together, and we¡¯re all ready to follow your lead. But what about them? It looks like Jing Dehai and his crew might not be so cooperative. The military¡¯s missions involve taking down Mutant Beasts, and they¡¯re no walk in the park. With us not being on the same page, doesn¡¯t that concern you?¡±


    shing a confident grin, Jiao Yuanju reassured her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. I¡¯ve got the badge, and trust me, if he chooses not to join me on the mission, he¡¯s going to regret it.¡±


    Her curiosity piqued, Zhen Heyi probed, ¡°You have a n?¡±


    With a nonchnt wave, Jiao Yuanju replied, ¡°Just wait and see what I¡¯ve got up my sleeve.¡±


    Jing Haokuo couldn¡¯t help but chime in with augh, ¡°Rx. He¡¯s tough enough to take on all of us single-handedly. He¡¯ll have no trouble getting those three to fall in line.¡±


    Zhen Heyi smiled, her eyes filled with anticipation as she watched Jiao Yuanju, whispering to herself, ¡°That would be great.¡±


    In the brightly lit office of the Krukshire Military District, a man in his thirties meticulously reviewed the reports from the front lines, surrounded by a dozen solemn-faced individuals in military garb.


    Closing thest file, he looked up and pondered aloud, ¡°I want to hear your thoughts.¡±


    Without hesitation, someone blurted out in frustration, ¡°It¡¯s those monsters stirring up trouble again. Ever since the Mutation Era began, they¡¯ve not only turned their backs on their kind to form their own factions, but they¡¯ve also had the audacity to dere themselves the new humans.¡±


    The room was thick with contempt and an odd sense of unease.


    ¡°Zhen Zeyu, we need your call on this. Those Beastmen have been expanding in the wilds beyond our reach, but now they¡¯re meddling in Krukshire affairs. They could be right on our doorstep. We have to assemble a team and eliminate them!¡±


    Zhen Zeyu pondered briefly before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s set aside the notion of killing them for the moment. They can¡¯t get into the city. We¡¯ll just have someone keep an eye on them. Moreover, their willingness to openly challenge our military suggests they¡¯re not to be taken lightly. Thebat capabilities of these new humans rival those of high-tier Mutant Beasts. Whether our top fighters can pose a threat to them is uncertain. Our immediate priority should be figuring out how to handle the beast tide.¡±


    He then inquired, ¡°Has the Third Legion already departed?¡±


    ¡°Yes, they¡¯re en route to tackle the Mutant Beasts. Elite students from various Combat Pet Academies have joined forces to support them on the battlefield.¡±


    Zhen Zeyu nodded in approval. ¡°Good to hear.¡±


    A subordinate chuckled, ¡°Commander, I¡¯ve heard that your daughter is part of the Combat Pet Academy¡¯s contingent!¡±


    The thought of his vibrant and quirky daughter brought a smile to Zhen Zeyu¡¯s face, which abruptly stiffened as he dered with a stern expression, ¡°We¡¯ve got a problem!¡±


    All eyes turned to him as he squinted and continued, ¡°The team is bound to venture out of the city, and it¡¯s likely that those orcs haveid an ambush. Based on our years of conflict with them, it¡¯s possible they have a mole inside the city. My daughter¡¯s identity is no secret; they could very well be aware of who she is!¡±


    The room was filled with a sudden tension. These orcs were human too, albeit a variant that had evolved towards bestial traits. Their technology and capabilities were on par with humans¡¯, making the threat all too real.


    The world had changed, rendering once-reliable satellite technology obsolete. Now, all tech could only function within city limits, leaving human messengers as the sole means ofmunication. A squad of soldiers hastened out of the city to ry the critical information to the main force.


    Jiao Yuanju and hispanions reached a bustling street. The area was crowded, yet eerily silent. The worn pavement was teeming with figures, yet not a whisper was heard, for they were all military personnel. Looming before them stood the towering city wall.


    ¡°What ce is this?¡± Jing Haokuo surveyed his surroundings with a mix of curiosity and unease. The deste old street gave him an unsettling feeling.


    ¡°This,¡± Jiao Yuanju replied with a hint of nostalgia, ¡°is Sunrise Borough, a ce with its own unique story.¡±


    He caught sight of the dark blue light door. It wasn¡¯t the city¡¯s sole light door, but it was certainly the most liberating. Merchants, hunters, and soldiers continuously passed through it.


    Upon hearing Jiao Yuanju¡¯s remarks, Zhen Heyi instantly sensed that he was privy to information unknown to her.


    For a brief moment, Xie Ziyu seemed lost in thought.


    Jing Dehai¡¯s gaze shifted to the three other teams positioned on the opposite side. Comprised of ten members each, they stood at the forefront of the military formation. Clearly, these were the elite squads from other Combat Pet Academies who had arrived early.


    ¡°Let¡¯s move out.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju gestured to Jing Junbo and theirpanions, then confidently strode toward the army¡¯s vanguard.


    Jing Dehai and the other two casually followed Jiao Yuanju¡¯s lead. Xie Ziyu trailed just behind Jiao Yuanju. Though she wasn¡¯t well-acquainted with them, she recognized that they were now a team.


    Jing Haokuo couldn¡¯t hide his contempt as he spoke to Jiao Yuanju, ¡°Their presence alone irks me!¡±


    The three teams took notice as they arrived. Two officers, previously engaged in conversation, turned to greet Jiao Yuanju with a smile. ¡°Are you with Azure Academy?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju nodded and inquired respectfully, ¡°And you are?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Ke Yu, the militarymander for this operation. Wee aboard!¡±


    Ke Yu, though in his forties, radiated vitality as he cheerfully weed them.


    ¡°You¡¯ve arrived quitete, making an entire army wait for you. That¡¯s rather presumptuous,¡± remarked a girl, smirking as she applied her lipstick.

 Chapter 25

    C25 ¨C Ant Tide


    Members of the Combat Pet Teams immediately sneered with contempt. One of them scoffed, ¡°Azure Academy is just the perennial bottom-feeder, a trash academy!¡±


    ¡°Out of these ten, I bet there aren¡¯t even a few elite Combat Pet Masters!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju remained calm, choosing not to engage with them. Jing Haokuo, on the other hand, couldn¡¯t contain his anger and let out a furious roar in response.


    Lei Sheng and his group paid no mind to the taunts, their attention fixed on the three teams from Starlight Academy, Lunar Academy, and Apex Academy. Along with Azure Academy, these were Krukshire¡¯s four prestigious institutions, home to the elite.


    The targeting of Azure Academy was likely due to the longstanding rivalry among the academies. Azure¡¯s performance had been consistently poor, always rankingst among the four.


    Ke Yu scanned the crowd and announced, ¡°Now that we¡¯re all assembled, it¡¯s time to move out!¡± The four teams, not daring to make a scene, led the troops out of the city.


    But as soon as they exited, they were stunned by the sight before them. Mutant Beasts of various kinds swarmed the roadsides and forests, effectively sealing off the city¡¯s exit. The impact was significant, causing turmoil in the pet market as merchants were too frightened to venture out.


    ¡°Is our mission to eliminate these Mutant Beasts?¡± asked the leader of Apex Academy, turning to Ke Yu.


    Ke Yu nodded in confirmation. ¡°We¡¯re facing a beast tide, numbering in the thousands. It¡¯s severely disrupting the resource flow between the city and the wilderness. We must eradicate them!¡±


    ¡°Listen up, everyone. We¡¯ll divide into five teams, each with two hundred people. Team leaders will take charge of these students and lead the effort to exterminate the Mutant Beasts, with the students assisting you,¡± Ke Yu instructed, as the veterans nodded in understanding.


    The four team captains, all second lieutenants, stepped forward.


    Before they departed, Ke Yu issued a stern warning, ¡°Do not underestimate these creatures. Mutant Beasts aren¡¯t deterred by bullets. We¡¯ll spread out in a fan formation and advance three kilometers before regrouping at a predetermined location. Is that clear?¡±


    ¡°Got it!¡±


    Ke Yu took a quick look at the small squads before leading two hundred people off toward the northwest.


    ¡°My name is Pei Anhan. From now on, you¡¯ll follow my orders and stay put. Combat Pet Masters may be formidable, but you mustn¡¯t stray from the group!¡±


    A burly man with a deeply lined face issued this stern warning to Jiao Yuanju and hispanions, then gestured for the team to move out.


    ¡°Boss, what¡¯s our move?¡± Jing Haokuo was a mix of nerves and excitement.


    ¡°We¡¯ll y it by ear,¡± Jiao Yuanju responded.


    ¡°I never thought I¡¯d be taking orders from him,¡± Lei Sheng grumbled, his expression icy.


    ¡°We¡¯re not in his league. He¡¯s got real strength. We should stick with him,¡± Jing Dehai advised coolly.


    For many in the Phantom Team, this was their first venture beyond the city walls. The disorderly wilderness that greeted them filled many with bewilderment. Was this truly the wilds?


    City dwellers had long been cocooned in safety, with a strong military presence and an arsenal of potent weapons at their disposal. Theirfortable existence had nearly erased the memory of the post-apocalyptic world outside, where humans were no longer the dominant force and apex creatures roamed freely. This was the reality of the wilderness.


    The group of over two hundred made their way deeper into a forest to the northeast of the city, the soldiers¡¯ faces set with determination, guns at the ready. They forged a path with caution.


    It seemed they were being deliberately protective, with the entire group advancing with Jiao Yuanju and his team at the core.


    As Jiao Yuanju puzzled over their situation, an old soldier leaned in close and murmured, ¡°If we run into any monsters, stay calm. Just summon your pets, and we¡¯ll handle the rest. And keep clear of the bushes¡ªthis forest is treacherous, and its venomous insects can kill.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, sir,¡± Jiao Yuanju replied, filled with gratitude.


    ¡°No need for thanks. You¡¯re the Alliance¡¯s hope. We soldiers mightck special talents, but Krukshire¡¯s future is in your hands.¡±


    ¡°Hold up!¡±


    Pei Anhan¡¯s sudden bellow cut through the air as he scanned the surroundings with a wary eye.


    The sound of rustling leaves filled the air, and before long, a dark, river-like mass appeared on the distant ground. Everyone immediately recognized the ominous sight.


    Jing Haokuo¡¯splexion drained to a ghostly white in an instant. Pointing toward the ominous sight, his voice quivered as he asked, ¡°What is that?¡±


    A vast expanse of ck stretched out for hundreds of meters before them. It was an army of a hundred million giant ants on the move. Emerging from the underground in all directions, they encircled them as if they were nothing more than prey.

 Chapter 26

    C26 ¨C Conflict


    ¡°Ant tide!¡±


    Pei Anhan¡¯s voice rang out,ced with shock.


    The soldiers around him were equally stunned.


    In the distance, the ground was a dark mass, like a ck deluge. It wasposed of tens of thousands of ants!


    ¡°Run!¡±


    Pei Anhan bellowed to the troops and Jiao Yuanju¡¯s team.


    Over two hundred people recoiled in terror. Under Pei Anhan¡¯s orders, the seasoned soldiers instinctively formed a protective ring around the Phantom Team.


    For Jing Haokuo, Jing Junbo, and the rest, who had never ventured beyond Krukshire in their lives, the sight was utterly iprehensible.


    ¡°Boss, are all these ants Mutant Beasts?¡± Jing Haokuo asked, his fear palpable. Jing Dehai and the others were equally stricken with panic. Despite their talents, they were just teenagers, seventeen or eighteen years old, and had never witnessed such a spectacle.


    Trees toppled one after another. Though the ant tide was slower than them, it left a trail of fallen timber. Every living thing in its path was gnawed to the bone.


    A sheen of cold sweat coated Jiao Yuanju¡¯s face. He caught a glimpse of the fatty and others being hauled away by soldiers and a realization hit him hard. Thefort and ease of city life had caused humanity to forget the struggles of the past. Yet, this was still a world in chaos, reeling from a great cataclysm. Mutant Beasts dominated eighty percent of the. Ever since the meteorite struck, humans had been dethroned from the apex of the food chain.


    The group of two hundred had no choice but to flee back the way they came. They had barely embarked on their journey when they encountered this disaster. The ammunition and firearms they had brought were no match for the ant tide!


    ¡°We can¡¯t let the ant tide chase us down like this. We need to get a clear picture of their path and size!¡± Jiao Yuanju urged Zhen Heyi, who was gasping for breath as she ran alongside him.


    Turning to Hong Yangqiu, who trailed the main force, Jiao Yuanju instructed, ¡°Your Combat Pet is a flyer, isn¡¯t it? Could you check the direction of the ant tide for us?¡±


    Without a word, Hong Yangqiuplied. A ck hawk soared from his Combat Pet Bag. As the hawk¡¯s bonded master, Hong Yangqiu could tap into its sight.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay!¡±


    Pei Anhan¡¯s face lit up with joy, drawing everyone¡¯s attention. He asked urgently, ¡°Kid, what¡¯s the situation?¡±


    Hong Yangqiu replied withposure, ¡°This ant tide isn¡¯t targeting us. Even if we stand still, they won¡¯t follow.¡±


    Xie Ziyu let out a cold snort. ¡°That¡¯s because their destination is the city wall. It¡¯s made of metal, but we¡¯re dealing with an earth ant tide. They can chew a hole right through the wall. It¡¯s only a matter of time!¡±


    ¡°What!¡± Pei Anhan eximed in anger. ¡°Everyone, about-face and charge with me. We cannot allow the ant tide to reach the city wall!¡±


    Their mission was to eliminate the Mutant Beasts outside the city. Naturally, they couldn¡¯t let the ant tide anywhere near the wall.


    ¡°How many bombs and me guns do we have?¡±


    ¡°Each of us has a bomb, but there are only three me guns.¡±


    While they spoke, they positioned themselves in front of the ant tide, with the city wall just two miles behind them!


    Soldiers hurled bombs into the swarm, sting open arge clearing in an instant.


    ¡°The ant tide is heading our way!¡±


    The ant tide halted its advance. The hundred-meter-long swarm enveloped the two hundred people like a flood.


    me guns roared, spewing fire that kept the ant tide at bay.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s voice was firm. ¡°It¡¯s our turn now. Elemental Combat Pets, you¡¯re up first. You have the upper hand!¡±


    A single ant was no match for a human, but thousands together were formidable. Ordinary Combat Pets stood no chance.


    Jing Dehai stepped forward, volunteering, ¡°I¡¯m on it!¡±


    He surveyed the troops and released his me tiger,manding, ¡°Fire Charge!¡±


    In an instant, the me tiger¡¯s fiery breath wiped out every ant within a dozen meters.


    Wind des sliced through the swarm in a frenzy, the work of Lei Sheng¡¯s ck Wind Wolf and Hong Yangqiu¡¯s ck hawk, but to little effect. The ants, as if enraged, continued their relentless assault.


    Before long, members of the group were bitten. Dozens of ants swarmed over them, and the ordinary person was no match for the onught, quickly bing covered in bites.


    ¡°Retreat! We can¡¯t stay this close to the ant tide!¡±


    Zhen Heyi¡¯s voice rang out sharply, and she swiftly mounted a Lightning Leopard, charging into the ant tide.


    Jiao Yuanju gasped in rm, ¡°Zhen Heyi!¡±


    A fearsome bolt of lightning erupted from the Lightning Leopard, apanied by a fierce cry, ¡°Wrath of Thunder!¡±


    The devastating lightning instantly engulfed an area of several meters, annihting all the ants beneath its crackling fury!


    Jing Haokuo shouted with excitement, ¡°I¡¯m joining the fray!¡±


    The Earth Boar lumbered forward, a goofy expression on its face, and executed Groundbreak, tearing fissures through the earth.


    Jiao Yuanju and Xie Ziyu were the only ones who held back. Their Combat Petscked any area-of-effect attacks. Eoldrai¡¯s abilities couldn¡¯t even scratch the ant tide, so they both stood still.


    In no time, the ant tide was wiped clean.


    Pei Anhan watched their fight and burst intoughter, ¡°Well done! We owe you one!¡±


    Lei Sheng boasted, ¡°We had to step in; it was our duty to defend the city. But how on earth did that guy be captain?¡±


    He cast a scornful nce at Jiao Yuanju. To him, Jiao Yuanju was nothing but a greedy mercenary, only willing to fight for money, always putting on an air of wisdom. He had little regard for Jiao Yuanju.


    Though Jiao Yuanju hadn¡¯t lifted a finger, he had noticed something far more crucial. The ant swarm was clearly being manipted. His mind shed back to the ck-robed figure they had encountered before.


    Jiao Yuanju warned with grave concern, ¡°Stay alert, everyone. This isn¡¯t over. There are definitely people out here targeting us!¡±


    Lei Sheng responded with a cold sneer, ¡°People? This wilderness is home only to Mutant Beasts. Stop making excuses for yourziness, you spineless coward!¡±


    He scanned their surroundings and mocked, ¡°And what about your insects? Why did they scurry off first?¡±


    His words were cut short as the ground began to tremble.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±


    From the distant woods, dozens of massive lions with jet-ck fur and a wild aura emerged, encircling them slowly. Clearly, these lions had been lying in wait for quite some time.

 Chapter 27

    C27 ¨C The Giant Beast in the ck Fog


    Lei Sheng was petrified. Each lion before him was not only valuable and rare but also incredibly dangerous!


    Xie Ziyu¡¯s face paled as one Crazy Lion after another emerged, totaling a staggering thirty. Their attack power was formidable, and they were impervious to bullets. Ten armed people could hardly take down one Crazy Lion, let alone a whole pride of thirty!


    Pei Anhan was shaking all over, fixated on the distant pride. He whispered in disbelief, ¡°How can this be? Why are the Crazy Lions here? Didn¡¯t the Grandmasters exterminate them all?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju quickly grasped the gravity of the situation. He yelled to Jing Haokuo and the rest, ¡°Get ready to fight!¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡±


    Jing Haokuo¡¯s Earth Boar recoiled in fear before even nearing a Crazy Lion. As an average Mutant Beast, it was no match for a Crazy Lion in either bloodline level orbat prowess.


    The pressure on Pei Anhan was immense. They were facing a pride that even Grandmaster Combat Pet Masters struggled with. They stood no chance against these Crazy Lions.


    He could already foresee the devastating losses they would suffer.


    The soldiers fired frantically at the pride, but the bullets merely grazed the Crazy Lions¡¯ fur, failing to breach their defenses and only escting the tension to a breaking point.


    Over thirty Crazy Lions roared ferociously and lunged at the soldiers!


    ¡°Wind de!¡±


    ¡°Lightning Charge!¡±


    Lei Sheng and hispanions quickly directed their Combat Pets into the fray. The leading Crazy Lions were struck hard, tumbling and bleeding profusely, but they relentlessly continued their assault on the humans!


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    A soldier¡¯s arm was savagely severed by a Crazy Lion before Jiao Yuanju kicked the beast away. The gory sight shocked the nine onlookers who had never witnessed such carnage. They realized that death was a real consequence of battle.


    The abrupt transition from academy students to battlefield warriors was overwhelming and unexpected.


    Jiao Yuanju shouted furiously, ¡°What are you doing just standing there? Do you have a death wish? Charge! If we don¡¯t hold back the lions, we¡¯re all going to die!¡±


    The tension escted suddenly, and rage filled everyone¡¯s eyes, particrly as they witnessed a soldier sprawled on the ground, his life ebbing away. His arm had been shredded to a pulp. He was both a respected elder and a currentrade-in-arms!


    Jing Dehai was the first to leap into action. Known for his arrogance, in that moment, he cast it asidepletely. With a fury-driven charge, he sent a two hundred kilogram Crazy Lion flying with a powerful kick. Meanwhile, the me tiger, engulfed in mes, engaged in a ferocious battle with another Crazy Lion.


    ¡°We¡¯re going all in!¡±


    Jing Haokuo, with sheer determination, spurred the Earth Boar into a charge, targeting a Crazy Lion that had attacked the soldier.


    In an instant, a spider web sprang from the ground, ensnaring two Crazy Lions in its tight embrace. The ck spider emerged, its eight razor-sharp legs piercing the bellies of the Crazy Lions, swiftly ending their lives.


    Pei Anhan turned to the dozen or so people beside him, his voice charged with excitement, ¡°Brothers, let¡¯s charge! We¡¯ve still got armor-piercing bullets!¡±


    Against the formidable Mutant Beasts, only armor-piercing bullets could make a dent. The group shouldered their massive sniper rifles and opened fire. Yet, as they did, eight more Crazy Lionsunched themselves in their direction.


    ¡°Eoldrai!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s roar echoed with urgency. The mysterious figure was still absent, but they couldn¡¯t afford to wait.


    Darkness swiftly descended over the battlefield, shrouding a hundred-meter radius and all the Crazy Lions within it.


    A green snake, Eoldrai, moved with lethal silence and speed, striking the back of a Crazy Lion with a venomous bite.


    In short order, over a dozen Crazy Lions had been bitten and envenomed by Eoldrai. The poison slowed them, but it wasn¡¯t enough to halt their onught.


    The ck Wind Wolf cried out in pain, having suffered bites from two Crazy Lions.


    Lei Sheng was a mix of panic and despair. His most formidable Combat Pet was in peril; was it going to meet its end here?


    Out of nowhere, a massive w materialized, striking the two Crazy Lions with such force that they were left battered and tumbling away.


    All eyes were drawn to the mysterious ck w.


    ¡°What on earth is that?!¡±


    But the struggle was far from over.


    Eight soldiers had fallen, many more were wounded. Over a hundred people banded together to fend off the dozen Crazy Lions. They shot wildly, keeping the beasts at bay with their fear, but their ammunition was dwindling. Already, more than twenty guns had fallen silent. With a lead Crazy Lion charging ahead, the rest followed in a ferocious assault.


    The soldiers¡¯plexions were ashen, their eyes reflecting utter despair. It was all over!


    Out of nowhere, a massive tail emerged from the shroud of ck fog, sending a dozen Crazy Lions hurtling through the air.


    The spectacle left not only the soldiers in shock but also the Phantom Team speechless. What kind of creature was this? It had revealed its ws and now its tail, lurking within the ck fog the entire time. It had single-handedly taken down more than half of the thirty-plus valuable and rare Crazy Lions!


    Jiao Yuanju alone wore a bemused look. So, Eoldrai¡¯s ambition was to transform into such a colossal beast!


    But his amusement was cut short by the barrage of notifications echoing in his head.


    ¡°You have in a Crazy Lion, earning 2 blood points.¡±


    ¡°You have in a Crazy Lion, receiving 2 blood points.¡±


    Seventeen consecutive alerts plunged Jiao Yuanju into an overwhelming sense of joy. Such an abundance of blood points!


    Xie Ziyu, Jing Dehai, and the rest were no fools. The behemoth had only materialized within the ck fog¡ªa fog conjured by Jiao Yuanju himself. Thus, the only exnation was that the beast responsible for annihting over twenty Crazy Lions was none other than Little Qing.


    As Jing Haokuo gazed upon the field littered with severely wounded Crazy Lions, he was ovee with emotion, tears welling in his eyes.


    Yet, the sight of the soldiers¡¯ dire predicament silenced them all. Eleven had been fatally mauled by the Crazy Lions, with over thirty more sustaining injuries.


    Zhen Heyi sat astride her Lightning Leopard, her face etched with grief. These were the valiant warriors of the Skysea Military, now fallen.


    In that solemn moment, a stealthy w reached out, swiftly seizing her throat from behind.

 Chapter 28

    C28 ¨C Level Three Beastman


    Zhen Heyi¡¯s neck was being squeezed as she emitted a scream of sheer terror.


    The Lightning Leopard had just spun around, letting out a furious roar, when it was suddenly swatted away by a powerful w!


    The abrupt arrival of this stranger took everyone by surprise.


    Jiao Yuanju lunged forward, demanding in an icy tone, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Silence fell over the scene once more.


    Tears streamed down Zhen Heyi¡¯s face, yet she managed to choke out, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, he¡¯s an orc. You all need to get out of here, fast!¡±


    Orc!


    To the average person, the term was iprehensible. But Xie Ziyu¡¯s expression chilled as she warned, ¡°Don¡¯t engage. He¡¯s beyond our league!¡±


    ¡°Orcs represent a new species. In the wake of the world¡¯s transformation, it wasn¡¯t just flora and fauna that changed; a significant number of humans underwent mutation as well. Their evolution, however, took a turn toward primal instincts. They¡¯ve developed beast-like natures and all the capabilities of Mutant Beasts. They¡¯ve imed the cities of the old world, proiming themselves the new humanity. Many have bloodlines awakened, akin to animal species, with at least level two strength, on par with the elite!¡±


    Xie Ziyu, her gaze fixed on Jiao Yuanju who was already charging into the fray, murmured, ¡°I suspect this beast tide is their doing.¡±


    The individual in question was tall, with notably ck-furred ws, yet his face retained a human visage, resembling a man in his forties.


    He paid Jiao Yuanju no mind, instead grinning at Zhen Heyi, ¡°We¡¯ve gone to great lengths to summon this beast tide, and atst, we¡¯ve captured you!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju advanced toward the orc, his brow furrowed, ¡°Why are you taking her?¡±


    It dawned on him ¨C could the entire beast tide have been incited because of Zhen Heyi? Who was she, and why did the orcs want her?


    ¡°Kid, beat it!¡±


    The orc dismissed Jiao Yuanju with a snarl, hoisting Zhen Heyi onto his shoulder and making a beeline for the dense forest.


    Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, Jiao Yuanju was hot on his trail!


    ¡°Boss!¡± Jing Haokuo and the rest could do nothing but watch Jiao Yuanju disappear into the distance.


    Xie Ziyu let out a scornful huff, ¡°That guy!¡±


    With ordinary people wounded, their only option was to head back to the city. But just then, a squad of soldiers spotted them and hurriedly approached.


    In the depths of the forest, a beastman hoisted Zhen Heyi onto his shoulders and dashed wildly, with Jiao Yuanju in hot pursuit.


    ¡°Who are you? Why have you taken me?¡± Zhen Heyi demanded, pounding on the beastman¡¯s shoulder in anger.


    The beastman let out a cold sneer. ¡°Because you¡¯re Zhen Gaochang¡¯s granddaughter. Quit your struggling. I won¡¯t kill you, but I can¡¯t guarantee I won¡¯t do something else to you!¡± His gaze towards Zhen Heyi was filled with barely concealed desire and impatience, reminiscent of a wild beast in rut.


    Terrified, Zhen Heyi didn¡¯t dare utter another word, though panic surged within her. She wasn¡¯t naive; if her identity was the key, then the beastmen must be plotting something against Krukshire. They wouldn¡¯t have taken her as leverage otherwise.


    Suddenly, a green snake appeared, blocking the beastman¡¯s path. The diminutive serpent flicked its tongue, fixing the beastman with a steady re.


    Jiao Yuanju emerged swiftly, his voice icy, ¡°Let her go!¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s you!¡± The beastman tossed Zhen Heyi aside, revealing a cruel smirk. His mouth bore two elongated, venomous fangs ¨C he was no longer purely human.


    Jiao Yuanju remained cautious, keeping his distance from the beastman. He signaled to Zhen Heyi, who was some way off, instructing her to flee while the beastman was distracted.


    The beastman, having evolved, was incredibly vtile. He bellowed, ¡°Since you¡¯vee, you might as well die here!¡± His ws, sharper than a lion¡¯s and backed by a coat of ck fur, propelled him towards Jiao Yuanju with astonishing speed.


    ¡°Fog of darkness!¡± Jiao Yuanju had no intention of engaging the beastman directly. Despite his enhanced strength, he was still no match for the beastman.


    The ck mist spread once again, a signature of Jiao Yuanju¡¯sbat style, favoring stealth and ambush. The beastman¡¯s ws glowed red as he swiped at Jiao Yuanju, who,cking advancedbat skills, relied on his speed. He darted about erratically, and with a nimble leap, he sprang clear of the beastman¡¯s ferocious attack.


    Zhen Heyi had never imagined that Jiao Yuanju would risk his life battling a beastman to save her!


    In a rush of emotion, she eximed, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, get out of here! It¡¯s a level three beastman; you¡¯re no match for it!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju froze at her words. Level three? Were there different tiers of strength among these creatures?


    He had no time to ponder as the beastman leaped forward, covering the distance of four or five meters in a bound, and swiped at Jiao Yuanju, catching himpletely off guard.


    With his slight frame, a single blow from the beastman could be fatal.


    Reacting instinctively, Jiao Yuanju rolled out of harm¡¯s way, his body slick with cold sweat. He stared at the beastman in horror. Its speed and strength were beyond human capabilities, even surpassing that of a Mutant Beast.


    As an elite Combat Pet Master, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s power, bolstered by Eoldrai¡¯s enhancement, could at best reach the upper echelons of the elite tier. Yet,pared to a level three beastman, whose might neared that of a Grandmaster Combat Pet Master, he was outssed.


    ¡°You think you can escape?¡±


    The beastman, enraged by its inability to seize Jiao Yuanju, pursued him relentlessly.


    But it had overlooked the fog of darkness.


    A smirk crossed Jiao Yuanju¡¯s face as he rolled into the fog and vanished. The fog churned, and a spear thrust forth, impaling the beastman with a chilling precision.


    The beastman bellowed in rage, unable toprehend or believe how the spear had materialized. Were there human warriors lying in ambush?


    ¡°Eoldrai!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju emerged from the fog, and in a bizarre twist, a green snake appeared around the beastman¡¯s neck and delivered a venomous bite.


    ¡°Curse you! Despicable, low-grade human!¡±


    Clutching its neck, the beastman wobbled, its face turning ck as the grave wound in its chest and the poison took their toll. Jiao Yuanju delivered a powerful kick, toppling the two-hundred-plus-pound creature to the ground.


    Eoldrai slithered back to his shoulder. Jiao Yuanju quickly lifted the dazed Zhen Heyi to her feet andmanded, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


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 Chapter 29

    C29 ¨C Zhen Heyi¡¯s Identity


    Zhen Heyi winced in pain, her brow furrowing deeply. She had been roughly hauled by the orcs, and when they tossed her aside, her pale, delicate left leg was left bloodied and torn.


    Jiao Yuanju squatted down, turning his back to Heyi, and offered, ¡°Get on, I¡¯ll carry you.¡±


    ¡°No, there¡¯s no need. I can manage on my own!¡± Heyi protested urgently.


    Yet as she spoke, she stubbornly inched forward, grimacing with each painful step.


    With a sigh, Jiao Yuanju scooped Heyi onto his back without further discussion and bolted back along the path they hade from.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Heyi¡¯s cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and admiration. Jiao Yuanju¡¯s demeanor was undeniably appealing¡ªhis unppable calm in the face of danger, his quick action to rescue her. He was truly her hero.


    A thought struck her, and Heyi gasped, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, was it you who conjured those ws and tails in the ck mist during the fight with the Crazy Lions?¡±


    He nodded, confirming, ¡°Yes, that was Eoldrai¡¯s doing.¡±


    ¡°Incredible,¡± Heyi marveled. ¡°But how? Eoldrai is so small, and its bloodline is only valuable and rare. How could it possibly stand against so many Crazy Lions of the same level?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju paused, then offered a smile. ¡°Eoldrai is actually of the rare variety.¡±


    Heyi¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°How could that be? A Mutant Beast¡¯s Bloodline Level is innate, tied to its evolutionary strength. How did Eoldrai ascend to rare status?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s because Eoldrai is a variant among Green Snakes. It evolved again after shedding its skin twice,¡± Jiao Yuanju exined, maintaining a calm facade as he spun his lie. He couldn¡¯t risk exposing his secret ability to evolve his Combat Pet.


    Heyi didn¡¯t question his exnation, her excitement bubbling over. ¡°Jiao Yuanju, do you realize? With Eoldrai¡¯s abilities, you could join the Ace Combat Pet Team in Krukshire!¡±


    Puzzled, Jiao Yuanju inquired, ¡°What¡¯s the Ace Combat Pet Team?¡±


    Zhen Heyi offered a smile and said, ¡°That¡¯s the most formidable Combat Pet Master team in each city of the Puwhary Alliance, tasked with defending our cities. If you¡¯re looking to join, I¡¯ll make sure to help you!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s voice was grave as he asked, ¡°Who are you, really?¡±


    With a touch of embarrassment, Zhen Heyi replied, ¡°My grandfather is the current mayor of Krukshire, General Zhen Gaochang. I apologize for not disclosing my identity earlier.¡±


    It clicked for Jiao Yuanju. Zhen Heyi was the granddaughter of Krukshire¡¯s City Lord. That exined why Pei Chang had always given her special treatment upon her academy arrival.


    Times had changed. The world had undergone a transformation, with the once-renowned cities nearly obliterated. The Puwhary Alliance, standing tall in the Land of the Rising Sun, was the sole human nation, forged from the survivors of neighboring states and the native popce. China¡¯s technological prowess had been the shield against the onught of Mutant Beasts, safeguarding their cities.


    In this new era, a city¡¯s mayor held at least the rank of a general, akin to a regional king.


    The motive behind the Orcs¡¯ attempt to abduct Zhen Heyi was clear¡ªthey intended to leverage her to coerce Krukshire!


    ¡°Where are you headed?¡± a detached female voice called out from the treetops.


    Jiao Yuanju whirled around to spot a beastman perched above.


    The figure was a woman, ghostlike in her treetop stance, with hair covering her body and her clothes in shreds. Her limbs had morphed into feline ws, obscuring her human form.


    Beside her stood a repulsive humanoid creature, his skin slick and glistening with a dark sheen. Viscous slime dripped from him. Aside from his human eyes, his mouth resembled a leech¡¯s sucker, revealing a ring of serrated teeth as it gaped and snapped. He salivated menacingly at Jiao Yuanju and hispanion, seemingly devoid of awareness.


    A pallor washed over Zhen Heyi¡¯s face as she eximed, ¡°Two more beastmen!¡±


    With a cold huff, Jiao Yuanjumanded, ¡°We¡¯re leaving, Eoldrai, cover our retreat!¡±


    He hoisted Zhen Heyi onto his back and hastened away. His strength had significantly increased, allowing him to move swiftly even while carrying her. However, the number of lurking beasts remained uncertain.


    The woman¡¯sugh was chilling as shemanded, ¡°Go, kill them!¡±


    The creature emitted a dull sound, as though its voice came from deep within its belly. It leaped down on its stubby legs, using all four ws to pursue Jiao Yuanju, leaving a trail of slime in its wake.


    Eoldrai, with its petite and agile form, positioned itself squarely in the path, darting swiftly around the beast.


    The monster, seemingly ravenous, turned its eyeless head toward the small snake. Its gaping maw snapped hungrily as it lunged at Eoldrai, who nimbly evaded each attack.


    The female monster bellowed in frustration, ¡°Fool!¡±


    With a swift motion, the womanshed out with her w, aiming for Eoldrai.


    In a sh, the green snake spat out a cloud of ck mist and vanished into the earth.


    By the time Jiao Yuanju and Zhen Heyi reached the outskirts of the city, a sizable crowd had already formed.


    ¡°Hey, hold it right there!¡±


    Two youths, about seventeen or eighteen, approached with a swagger, their faces etched with scorn. ¡°Kid, you¡¯re from Azure Academy, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju nced at the emblem on their clothing¡ªStarlight Academy.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± he asked, his tone cool and detached.


    The pair, full of conceit, demanded, ¡°How many Mutant Beasts have you taken down?¡±


    It was then that Jiao Yuanju remembered the device each Combat Pet Master was issued when leaving the city, designed to tally the number of Mutant Beasts in. He had been too preupied with evading the Orcs to check it.


    He nced down at his wrist where the device disyed the number ¡°113.¡±


    Zhen Heyi gasped in astonishment; she hadn¡¯t imagined Jiao Yuanju could single-handedly defeat so many Mutant Beasts.


    ¡°This device, courtesy of the National Research Department, awards one point per ordinary Mutant Beast and five for each valuable and rare one. How could this kid score so high? He¡¯s outdoing even our leader?¡± the two onlookers eximed in disbelief, their voices trailing off in shock.


    Their shout drew the immediate attention of the two teams waiting nearby.

 Chapter 30

    C30 ¨C The Awakening of Its Bloodline


    The team leader from Starlight Academy approached quickly and inquired, ¡°What¡¯s the situation here?¡±


    In a state of shock, the two responded, ¡°Mr. Yan, this youngster from Azure Academy has in a Mutant Beast. His score has soared past one hundred!¡±


    Yan Kun looked at Jiao Yuanju with a hint of curiosity and asked courteously, ¡°Which squad are you with? We¡¯ve been on the tail of Mutant Beasts ourselves, but only ran into a little over thirty before heading back. Our forces have already regrouped in the city. Did you run into arge number of them?¡±


    Clutching Jiao Yuanju¡¯s neck, Zhen Heyi replied with a sense of resignation, ¡°We ran into an earth ant swarm, followed by a chase from the Crazy Lions.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The group was astounded. How had theye across so many Mutant Beasts?


    ¡°We need to get into the city. Where¡¯s Ke Yu?¡± Jiao Yuanju asked.


    Yan Kun cast a nce at the closed city gates and said, ¡°He¡¯s not back yet, but we need to wait for the entire troop to return before we can head back.¡±


    Suddenly, a fearsome roar echoed from a distance, apanied by a mass of footsteps.


    Turning their gaze, they saw hundreds of soldiers sprinting alongside Ke Yu.


    Ke Yu bellowed, ¡°Move quickly, the Beast King ising!¡±


    Panic ensued. A Beast King was a ruler among Mutant Beasts, a colossal creature capable of battling Grandmasters!


    Beastmen spotted a tremendous beast in the distance, their faces nching as they eximed, ¡°We must leave; our mission isn¡¯tplete!¡±


    In the crowd, Jiao Yuanju spotted Jing Haokuo and the rest of the Phantom Team, drenched in sweat from their frantic running.


    A lion, massive as a moving cottage with a twisted horn atop its head, charged from the distance.


    ¡°It¡¯s the Berserk Lion King, a level four Mutant Beast and the sovereign of the Crazy Lions,¡± Zhen Heyi said urgently. ¡°To my knowledge, there¡¯s a multitude of Mutant Beasts near Krukshire, but only one Berserk Lion King, and it¡¯s usually around Sun¡¯s Peak, three hundred kilometers from here!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju dered gravely, ¡°Those Orcs must have intentionally drawn it here!¡±


    The city gates swung open swiftly as Ke Yu bellowed, ¡°Everyone, into the city!¡±


    In a panic, the crowd surged through the city¡¯s light door. Amidst the turmoil, a squad of soldiers rushed to Jiao Yuanju¡¯s side, their concern evident. ¡°Miss, are you unharmed?¡± one asked, relief in his voice.


    Zhen Heyi replied with a smile, ¡°Uncle Cao, I¡¯m perfectly fine!¡±


    Sensing the moment, Jiao Yuanju gently set Zhen Heyi down, with two others stepping in to steady her.


    Cao Sa, observing Jiao Yuanju¡¯sposed demeanor,mended him, ¡°Fortunate for us you were there to assist the youngdy, my friend!¡±


    His face suddenly tensed with urgency. ¡°This is bad, the Berserk Lion King hasunched an attack!¡±


    While most had made it through the gates, a handful of soldiers were still struggling to reach safety, along with a fat man and a pig gasping for breath as they charged toward the gate.


    The massive lion, with blood-red eyes, lunged ferociously at the group!


    The fat man tumbled to the ground, terror stered across his plump face as he cried out, ¡°I¡¯m not ready to die!¡±


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju, what are you nning to do?¡±


    Zhen Heyi and Cao Sa yelled in unison.


    They realized that as soon as they witnessed Jing Haokuo fall, Jiao Yuanju had already dashed forward with incredible speed!


    While running, Jiao Yuanju swiftly essed the system panel in his mind.


    ¡°Enhancing Fluid. I¡¯m no match for the Berserk Lion King as I am, but I can¡¯t just stand by and let Fatty die!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s anxiety sent chills down his spine.


    The system panel offered four choices, and an electronic voice intoned, ¡°Please select an enhancement, Host. You have 51 blood points avable.¡±


    ¡°Which enhancement is the most powerful and useful?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s mind raced over the options: 30 blood points for strength, 30 for speed, 30 for perception, but bloodline enhancement was precisely 50 blood points!


    ¡°Bloodline enhancement, it is!¡±


    The Berserk Lion King was mere meters from Jing Haokuo and the others ¨C it was now or never.


    ¡°Initiating Bloodline Enhancement. Given the host¡¯s critical need for a bloodline boost, would you like to add one blood point to activate the elerated enhancement feature?¡±


    ¡°Activate!¡±


    In that critical moment, Jing Haokuo was on the verge of panic. He could only watch as the Berserk Lion King poised to strike with its massive ws, directly above where he and a few soldiers, the slowest of the group, were positioned.


    They couldn¡¯t die!


    Suddenly, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s mind seemed to pause, his blood undergoing an inexplicable transformation. His body felt as if it had been remade, leaving him with a sense of invigoration.


    ¡°Enhancement sessful. Congrattions, you have be a level one Awakened. Your strongest bloodline talent, ¡®Realm of Shadows,¡¯ and the ¡®Asura Body¡¯ have been automatically awakened.¡±


    The Realm of Shadows is a unique talent, allowing you to forcibly create a small pocket dimension with the power of your bloodline. The Asura Body is the world¡¯s most lethal battle form, transforming you into a living weapon upon activation.


    Jiao Yuanju dashed forward, positioning himself between the soldiers and the descending w of the Lion King. With a mere thought, the Asura Body sprang to life!


    Instinctively, he struck at the w.


    The Berserk Lion King let out an enraged roar, jumping back and fixing a furious gaze on Jiao Yuanju.


    The force of the encounter sent Jiao Yuanju reeling, coughing up blood.


    All who witnessed the scene were astounded.


    Tears welled up in Jing Haokuo¡¯s eyes as he looked at Jiao Yuanju. ¡°Boss!¡±


    The soldiers stood in shock, unable to believe that someone had risked their life to save them in such a desperate moment.


    Without hesitation, Jing Haokuo scooped up Jiao Yuanju and ced him on the back of the Earth Boar, giving it a firm p.


    The Earth Boar charged instinctively, while Jing Haokuo ran for his life, head down.


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju actually stopped it!¡± Zhen Heyi was in disbelief.


    Just then, a majestic golden wolf burst through the city gates. Its body was adorned with golden scales, moving with the speed of lightning. It unleashed a st of golden thunder from its maw, striking the Berserk Lion King, which then turned its attention to the frail old man seated atop the golden wolf.


    A Grandmaster Combat Pet Master had arrived!


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 Chapter 31

    C31 ¨C Returning


    The title of Grandmaster is bestowed upon humans with formidable power. Thanks to the effects of the bloodline contract, as the Combat Pet evolves, so too does its master, gaining strength gradually.


    Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t witness the sh between the Grandmaster-level Combat Pet Master and the Berserk Lion King. Though he managed to activate his bloodline in the nick of time, his abilities were still only at the elite level.


    His saving grace was the mighty Asura Combat Body. With a mere extension of his palm, he pierced the Berserk Lion King¡¯s ws.


    ¡°Captain Jiao Yuanju!¡± The Combat Pet squad quickly gathered around him. Jiao Yuanju winced as he clutched his ribs, which were nearly crushed.


    Jing Junbo and two others rushed over, eyeing Jiao Yuanju with concern.


    Lei Sheng chimed in, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, what happened to you?¡±


    Jing Haokuo blurted out in panic, ¡°Boss took a hit from the Lion King to save me!¡±


    Everyone was stunned. The Berserk Lion King was a rare Mutant Beast. Yet Jiao Yuanju had withstood its strike and lived to tell the tale!


    Jiao Yuanju exhaled deeply and asked, ¡°I¡¯m okay. Is everyone else alright?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± came the collective response.


    At that moment, Jing Haokuo stepped forward, bowing deeply to Jiao Yuanju. ¡°Boss, without you, I might not be here. You¡¯re the only boss I¡¯ll ever acknowledge.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju pped him on the shoulder, smiling. ¡°We¡¯re brothers.¡±


    The ten members of the Combat Pet team fell silent upon hearing how Jiao Yuanju had put his life on the line for Jing Haokuo. They looked up to their captain with deep respect, realizing theycked the bravery to trade their lives for a ssmate they barely knew.


    Members of the other Combat Pet squads sneered at the sight of Jiao Yuanju, taunting, ¡°What¡¯s with the Azure Academy captain looking like a refugee? Did the Berserk Lion King scare you that much?¡±


    Jing Haokuo retorted without hesitation, ¡°Why don¡¯t you go out there and take on the Lion King? If you¡¯re too scared, then keep your mouth shut!¡±


    Their faces darkened with malice as they red back at them.


    Suddenly, several more individuals burst through the light door¡ªit was Zhen Heyi andpany.


    Zhen Heyi broke away from the person assisting her and strode toward Jiao Yuanju. Her voice wasced with urgency as she asked, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, are you injured?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Jiao Yuanju reassured her. ¡°What about you?¡± His gaze fell on Zhen Heyi¡¯s legs.


    With a look of disbelief, Zhen Heyi eximed, ¡°Do you have any idea how dangerous that was? You nearly gave me a heart attack. It¡¯s a miracle you¡¯re still alive! Jiao Yuanju, you¡¯re truly incredible!¡±


    As Zhen Heyi¡¯s unfiltered admiration washed over him, Jiao Yuanju could feel his own body undergoing a transformation. His spirit soared to new heights, as though he himself had be a living weapon.


    Just then, a young man emerged from the Apex Academy¡¯s ranks, gracing Zhen Heyi with an elegant smile. ¡°Heyi, do you remember me?¡± he inquired.


    Puzzled, Zhen Heyi responded, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me, Zhu Boyi!¡±


    Zhu Boyi¡¯s gaze was tender as he looked at Zhen Heyi. Both hailed from prestigious military families¡ªshe, the granddaughter of the City Lord, and he, the son of a venerable official. His family¡¯s influence was undeniable. His fondness for Zhen Heyi had spanned years, and he had even persuaded his father to propose a marriage between them.


    With a slight furrow of her brow, Zhen Heyi coolly acknowledged him, ¡°Boyi.¡±


    She then turned her concerned eyes back to Jiao Yuanju. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the hospital so the military doctor can make sure you¡¯re not injured,¡± she insisted.


    Cao Sa admired Jiao Yuanju¡¯s bravery, saying, ¡°Thank you. You saved dozens of lives today, and on behalf of our team, I am grateful. Please, join us.¡±


    With no other option, Jiao Yuanju nodded in agreement.


    The Combat Pet Teams made their way back to their respective academies, led by the military. Zhu Boyi alone watched Zhen Heyi and Jiao Yuanju¡¯s retreating figures with a dark scowl.


    ¡°Jiao Yuanju, who does he think he is, trying to take Zhen Heyi from me?¡± he seethed.


    His Apex Academy peers pped him on the back with a scoff. ¡°Azure Academy is nothing but a second-rate institution. How could they ever stack up against Apex Academy? Boyi, if you dislike him, let¡¯s challenge him at their academy. With your skills, you¡¯ll beat him effortlessly!¡±


    In the hospital, Jiao Yuanju was diagnosed with minor injuries. He examined his hand, feeling the immense power coursing through his veins. At hismand, awork of fine, blood-red meridians surfaced across his skin. With a casual flick of his wrist, he effortlessly shaved off a chunk of alloy from the side of the hospital bed.


    ¡°The Asura Body is incredibly powerful. I¡¯m like a living weapon,¡± he thought to himself. ¡°If I encounter those level three orcs again, I could easily defeat them with the strength I have now.¡±


    As Jiao Yuanju pondered his newfound abilities, a middle-aged man entered his hospital room, apanied by Zhen Heyi. The man¡¯s presence wasmanding yetced with curiosity as he inquired, ¡°Are you Jiao Yuanju?¡±


    Caught off guard, Jiao Yuanju hesitated before nodding in confirmation, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s me.¡±


    Zhen Heyi affectionately linked her arm with the man¡¯s. With a warm smile, the man turned to Jiao Yuanju and expressed his gratitude, ¡°Thank you for saving my daughter.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble at all, Uncle,¡± Jiao Yuanju replied, recognizing him as Zhen Heyi¡¯s father.

 Chapter 32

    C32 ¨C Realm of Shadows


    Zhen Zeyu observed Jiao Yuanju with a keen interest. As he recalled the profile his subordinate had shared with him, a look of appreciation flickered in his eyes. He spoke with gravity, ¡°Please, feel at ease. You¡¯re Heyi¡¯s ssmate, and she¡¯s told me about your bravery in the wilderness. Without your courageous intervention, my daughter might have ended up in the clutches of the orcs. As an elder, it¡¯s only right that I extend my heartfelt thanks to you.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for thanks,¡± Jiao Yuanju replied. ¡°Zhen Heyi is my ssmate, and looking out for her is the least I can do.¡±


    Zhen Zeyu continued with admiration, ¡°I¡¯ve also heard about your rescue of Captain Pei Xiaobo. Without your help, they wouldn¡¯t have made it back to warn us of the orc threat. That¡¯s a significant feat! I admire young people like you who are both brave and talented. You¡¯ve made a considerable contribution, and I can¡¯t let that go unrewarded. What reward would you like?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was lost in thought. He was unaware of Zhen Zeyu¡¯s exact status, and apart from seeking treatment for his father¡¯s leg, he had no great desires. Yet, he was well aware of the rarity of gene replication technology¡ªavable to only a select few within the Alliance and, to his knowledge, nonexistent in Krukshire.


    ¡°You decide,¡± Jiao Yuanju finally said.


    Zhen Zeyu was taken aback by this response. In Krukshire, few young people had the opportunity to make requests of someone with his stature, and those who did usually sought the finest things in high society or favors from military connections. Jiao Yuanju¡¯s nonchnce was unusual. Did he not realize the value of the promise being offered to him?


    Unable to contain his curiosity, Zhen Zeyu pressed, ¡°Young man, think it over carefully. My word carries great weight.¡±


    Zhen Heyi chimed in with her characteristic wit, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, don¡¯t be foolish. My father holds a high position. What is it you desire? Money, an advanced Combat Pet, a bright future? Give it some serious thought!¡±


    Zhen Zeyu felt a surge of irritation at his daughter¡¯s antics, yet he held his tongue. He knew her well¡ªZhen Heyi was not only cheerful but also incredibly intelligent. She had rarely taken a liking to any young man, but now she seemed to take a particr interest in Jiao Yuanju.


    Jiao Yuanju shook his head, ¡°Please, arrange as you see fit. I have no special requests. Besides, I volunteered for all of this. Pei and the rest are with me by choice. It wouldn¡¯t be right for me to ask for anything.¡±


    ¡°Understood!¡±


    Zhen Zeyu was genuinely impressed with Jiao Yuanju, offering a smile that spoke volumes without a word.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be on my way then. Heyi, get some rest.¡±


    After leaving the hospital, Jiao Yuanju was eager to test his newfound abilities.


    Not long after his departure, an elderly man arrived at the hospital.


    ¡°Elder Shi!¡±


    Zhen Heyi eximed with delight.


    Zhen Zeyu rose to his feet, greeting him with reverence, ¡°Elder Shi, to what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?¡±


    Shi Jianyuan chuckled heartily, ¡°Can¡¯t I drop by to see Heyi?¡±


    The elder¡¯s tone shifted, ¡°I¡¯ve heard a young man apanied you. Where is he? I¡¯d like to meet him.¡±


    ¡°Elder Shi, is something the matter?¡± Zhen Zeyu was taken aback upon hearing Shi Jianyuan¡¯s request to meet Jiao Yuanju, especially since the elder was revered as the guardian deity of Krukshire, the trump card of the Ace Combat Pet Team, and the sole Grandmaster in the region.


    The old man spoke earnestly, ¡°The boy is exceptional. The Berserk Lion King¡¯s power was nearly that of a level five Mutant Beast. It was a struggle to y it, and it managed to wound my Combat Pet. Yet, I¡¯ve been told that the boy single-handedly protected dozens, not only withstanding its onught but also injuring one of its legs. Without that, I doubt I could have killed it so swiftly. I must meet him!¡±


    Zhen Zeyu was startled once more.


    Meanwhile, Jiao Yuanju hurried home. As soon as he entered, he couldn¡¯t wait to unleash his bloodline power.


    ¡°Asura Combat Body, activate!¡±


    He watched as a crimson hue enveloped his skin, with bizarre runes flickering across it. But what thrilled him most was the surge in his strength and speed, feeling as though he could now fell a bull with a single punch.


    ¡°Every inch of me is a weapon, as if d in armor. How extraordinary!¡±


    In that moment, Jiao Yuanju caught sight of the intricate patterns etched across his body in the mirror. He was the very image of a formidable war deity!


    Without hesitation, Jiao Yuanju whispered to himself, ¡°Activate the Realm of Shadows!¡±


    Instantly, his surroundings shifted. He found himself in a dimly lit space. The darkness was pervasive, allowing only a glimpse of the ckened earth beneath his feet. The area extended only a few dozen meters, shrouded in a swirling ck energy. Jiao Yuanju felt an overwhelming sense offort, and a faint, yet profound connection to his mind seemed to suggest he could dominate everything in this realm.


    What a bizarre world it was. Yet, Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t help but feel ted at the prospect of having an additional world at his disposal, one where he could transport anything at will!


    ¡°Such a shame I¡¯ve run out of blood points,¡± hemented.


    Jiao Yuanju was at a loss. In his quest to awaken this bloodline, he had exhausted all fifty-one of his blood points, leaving him utterly destitute.


    Then, a thought struck him, prompting a question to the system, ¡°Can I acquire more Combat Pets?¡±


    Typically, a Combat Pet Master is limited to a single Combat Pet. The rare few might manage two, as the mental bond required between master and pet is incredibly draining. Without the strength of a Grandmaster, managing multiple Combat Pets could prove fatal. However, Jiao Yuanju believed he was capable, or more urately, that the system was.


    True to form, the system responded, ¡°Elevate Eoldrai to legendary status (Level 5), and you¡¯ll unlock a new system feature. Once bound to a Combat Pet, it will never betray its master. It will also form a soul bond with you, allowing you to monitor its status from any distance. Moreover, you can release your Combat Pet into the wild for a time, and any creature it ys will be converted into blood points.¡±


    With this information, Jiao Yuanju realized that if he wanted to amass more blood points, he would need to let Eoldrai hunt independently.


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 Chapter 33

    C33 ¨C Zhu Boyi Was Looking for Trouble


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s phone began to ring.


    To his surprise, it was a call from Jiao Qin!


    ¡°Hello, Jiao Yuanju?¡±


    With a hint of joy in his voice, Jiao Yuanju responded, ¡°Jiao Qin, what¡¯s up?¡±


    Jiao Qin¡¯s tone was detached. ¡°Mom didn¡¯t pick up my call. I wanted to check in on Dad. How is he?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s fine. Mom¡¯s probably at work.¡±


    Despite the coldness, Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t help but ask cheerfully, ¡°How are you holding up at Riverdale Institute, Jiao Qin? Do you have enough for your living expenses?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m managing fine, and I¡¯m earning my own living expenses,¡± Jiao Qin replied evenly.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s brow furrowed with concern. ¡°I¡¯ve heard thepetition at Riverdale is intense. Your academics are strong, but with a less capable Combat Pet, you¡¯re limited to theoretical studies. That must be draining.¡±


    Secondster, Jiao Yuanju sent Jiao Qin 5,000 Alliance Coins.


    Jiao Qin was astounded. ¡°Jiao Yuanju, where did you get so much money?¡±


    With a chuckle, Jiao Yuanju said, ¡°I earned it through my own efforts. Focus on your studies, Jiao Qin, and don¡¯t hesitate to reach out if you¡¯re facing any difficulties.¡±


    After a brief pause, Jiao Yuanju added earnestly, ¡°You have to remember, I¡¯m your brother. From here on out, I won¡¯t let you be wronged. I¡¯ll work hard, and I want you to have a better life there too!¡±


    Jiao Qin was momentarily speechless, her beautiful eyes brimming with emotion. Jiao Yuanju seemed different somehow, but she remained silent.


    Jiao Yuanju still had twenty thousand Alliance Coins from Lei Sheng that he hadn¡¯t touched.


    Once the call ended, Jiao Yuanju pondered the system¡¯s advice, wrestling with a tough choice. ¡°I¡¯ve only got one Combat Pet. If I release Eoldrai into the wild, what will I do?¡±


    ¡°System, if I use a contract talisman from the real world to bind another Combat Pet, could that affect me?¡±


    The system exined, ¡°The system actually has an automatic master recognition feature. Eoldrai was already bound to you before the system¡¯s arrival. But this feature only works on average-level Mutant Beasts.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was taken aback!


    He couldn¡¯t bear to part with Eoldrai, yet that didn¡¯t mean he was incapable of taming anotherbat pet!


    His Asura Combat Body could certainly rival that of a Grandmaster Combat Pet Master. Had the Berserk Lion King¡¯s assault not been so abrupt, he might have escaped unscathed!


    While there were no mutant beasts avable for Jiao Yuanju to experiment with, he was in no rush. With his military emblem in hand, leaving the city should be a breeze, and he could then proceed with his experiments.


    Upon Jiao Yuanju¡¯s arrival at the academy, he was greeted by a lively crowd of students gathered in the za, engaged in animated discussions. The excitement was palpable, with many of the girls blushing with enthusiasm.


    ¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡± Jiao Yuanju inquired of a nearby student.


    Her eyes sparkled upon seeing him, and she eximed with fervor, ¡°Snake King!¡±


    She then bellowed, ¡°The Snake King has arrived! Look, everyone!¡±


    In an instant, all eyes were on Jiao Yuanju. The intensity of their gazes gave him the sense that something was amiss.


    ¡°The girls bubbled with excitement, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, we¡¯ve been waiting for you for ages!¡±


    The boys, eager for a spectacle, chimed in, ¡°Snake King, hurry over! Someone¡¯se to Azure Academy looking for trouble, tantly challenging you. He¡¯s full of arrogance. You¡¯ve got to show them what for!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Jiao Yuanju, you¡¯ve got to take them down!¡±


    The crowd parted to reveal three individuals donned in Apex Academy uniforms, their faces etched with scorn as they surveyed the Azure Academy students. Their contemptuous smirks were a clear affront to the Azure students.


    Yet, not all shared the sentiment; the Azure Academy girls were captivated by the tall, imposing, and roguishly handsome Zhu Boyi.


    Such was the way of the girls. In times of peace, countless celebrities and idols had won over legions of devoted female fans. Despite humanity¡¯s trials, the Puwhary Alliance remained tranquil. But in any era, for these girls, ¡°beauty is justice.¡±


    Still, their reverence for Jiao Yuanju was evident; they respectfully cleared a path for him.


    Zhu Boyi¡¯s expression darkened at the sight of Jiao Yuanju. With a frosty demeanor, he said, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, I half-expected you¡¯d have gotten wind of my visit and fled your academy in fear!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju quirked an eyebrow and asked, ¡°Do I know you?¡±


    Zhu Boyi retorted with fury, ¡°Heyi has been my friend since childhood. It doesn¡¯t matter that we¡¯re no longer at the same academy; she¡¯s off-limits to you. I¡¯m here to make it clear¡ªback off!¡±


    With a serene smile, Jiao Yuanju responded, ¡°And what business is my rtionship with her to you? Moreover, she¡¯s the deputy head of ss 7 and a key yer on my team. Why shouldn¡¯t I look out for her?¡±


    Zhu Boyi scoffed, ¡°So, you¡¯re disrespecting me now?¡±


    ¡°Is your dad Jing Le?¡± Jiao Yuanju countered.


    Zhu Boyi was at a loss for words.


    Jiao Yuanju couldn¡¯t resist mocking him, ¡°Since your dad isn¡¯t Jing Le, and I¡¯m certainly not your dad, just who do you think you are?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s authoritative and aloof deration echoed, silencing the crowd instantly. Everyone, men and women alike, watched in awe.


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s arrogance was palpable, yet it dawned on the Azure Academy crowd that he had every right to be. As their top student, why shouldn¡¯t he carry himself with such confidence?


    ¡°Snake King, we¡¯ve got your back! They¡¯re nothing but outsiders. What right do they have to strut around? Show them how it¡¯s done!¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re behind you all the way to uphold Azure Academy¡¯s honor!¡±


    The audience was aze with fervor for Jiao Yuanju, while they hurled insults at the trio from Apex Academy.

 Chapter 34

    C34 ¨C The Shadow Tiger


    Zhu Boyi was seething with rage, his lungs on the verge of bursting. He cast a frosty re at the Azure Academy crowd before directing his fury at Jiao Yuanju. With a cold shout, he challenged, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, if you¡¯re a man, do you dare to duel me?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju responded with a measured tone, ¡°I am a man, but what makes you think you have the right to challenge me to a duel? Whether or not I choose topete with you is up to me.¡±


    Zhu Boyi¡¯s face flushed crimson at Jiao Yuanju¡¯s taunting words. He was itching to rip Jiao Yuanju to shreds. Never in his life had anyone dared to speak to him in such a manner!


    The two cohorts nking Zhu Boyi hurled insults as well, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, you coward, you¡¯re clearly scared of us. We¡¯re the elite squad from Apex Academy. Let¡¯s be real, Azure Academy is nothing but garbage. If you¡¯re scared of getting a thrashing from Zhu, just admit it!¡±


    Exchanging a look, Zhu Boyi¡¯spanions continued with their haughty remarks, ¡°All Azure Academy has is losers. Zhu, don¡¯t waste your time on Jiao Yuanju. If this scaredy-cat won¡¯t fight, forget it. Once we¡¯re out of Azure Academy, we¡¯ll take every chance to beat them down!¡±


    The condescending and provocativements from Zhu Boyi¡¯s sidekicks deeply angered the Azure Academy onlookers. Yet, they refrained from retorting with insults, not wanting to stoop to that level. Instead, they turned their expectant gazes to Jiao Yuanju, silently urging him to stand up for them and give Zhu Boyi and hisckeys the thrashing they deserved.


    Jiao Yuanju internally sighed, knowing a confrontation was inevitable. Not only was his own reputation at stake, but the morale of the Azure Academy was on the line. They couldn¡¯t afford to feel inferior to other academies, especially given Azure¡¯s consecutive years at the bottom of the Combat Pet Academy rankings.


    With a calm demeanor, Jiao Yuanju proposed, ¡°Since you¡¯re so eager to be taught a lesson, I¡¯m willing to oblige. But why not raise the stakes with a wager?¡±


    A triumphant grin spread across Zhu Boyi¡¯s face. His biggest fear was that Jiao Yuanju would refuse to fight. Challenges between academy students required mutual consent, and Zhu knew that if he tried to coerce Jiao Yuanju, the Azure Academy¡¯s faculty would never stand for it. But Jiao Yuanju had just epted the challenge.


    ¡°Alright, what¡¯s the wager?¡±


    Zhu Boyi was unppable, born into privilege with no shortage of anything.


    Jiao Yuanju spoke calmly, ¡°If you beat me, I¡¯ll do more than just keep my distance from Zhen Heyi¡ªI¡¯ll even quit the Combat Pet Squad!¡±


    The crowd gasped in surprise, unable to believe that Jiao Yuanju would take so lightly the role of squad captain, a title that was a badge of honor for the strongest student at Azure Academy,manding respect even from the principal.


    ¡°But if you lose,¡± he continued, ¡°you¡¯ll apologize to everyone here and then leave Azure Academy for good!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s deration sent a wave of excitement through the onlookers, who shouted, ¡°Yes, make that jerk apologize!¡±


    Zhu Boyi, seeing the throngs of girls admiring and cheering for Jiao Yuanju, scoffed, ¡°To the arena, then!¡±


    With that, Zhu strode toward the Azure Academy¡¯s training field, Jiao Yuanju following with a detached air, trailed by arge, particrly animated group of girls who nearly swarmed him, their eyes alight with enthusiasm.


    At Azure Academy, Jiao Yuanju was the man of the hour¡ªcharming, kind, and formidable.


    Themotion quickly drew arger audience. Soon, members of ss 7 arrived, eager to support their ss monitor, Jiao Yuanju, both out of loyalty and principle.


    The Combat Pet team showed up in force as well, including Jing Dehai and Hong Yangqiu, as well as Lei Sheng and Xie Ziyu.


    Lei Sheng, clearly still resentful, remarked, ¡°I can¡¯t fathom what makes him worthy of representing our academy. He¡¯s the first to flee in a fight outside¡ªdoesn¡¯t he always end up relying on us against real enemies?¡±


    Xie Ziyu shot Lei Sheng a scornful look, her gaze fixed on the arena as she retorted icily, ¡°Ignorant.¡±


    A flicker of anger crossed Lei Sheng¡¯s face as he red at the alluring girl, ¡°Xie Ziyu, I may not know where youe from, but drop the ice queen act. Otherwise, I¡¯ll be the one to take you down a peg sooner orter.¡±


    As he spoke, he licked his lips with a hint of desire. Xie Ziyu was undeniably stunning, her figure as alluring as a serpent¡¯s!


    Xie Ziyu¡¯s gaze cut like daggers as she watched the confrontation unfold on stage. With a mockingugh, she said, ¡°Do you really think Jiao Yuanju is so straightforward? Do you believe he made no contributions in the wild?¡±


    ¡°What are you implying?¡±


    Lei Sheng was still clueless. To him, Jiao Yuanju was nothing but a penniless nobody, lucky enough to possess a mutated green snake, which allowed him to outshine their Combat Pet, Cash. He was convinced that Jiao Yuanju had no aces up his sleeve.


    Zhu Boyi gave his Combat Pet Bag a gentle tap, and in an instant, a massive tiger with ck and white stripes materialized, its formidable presence engulfing the arena!


    A voice cried out in astonishment, ¡°The Shadow Tiger! It¡¯s one of the most powerful breeds among the valuable and rare Mutant Beasts. Rumor has it that its bloodline power is nearing the Profound level!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the Profound level?¡±


    ¡°The Profound Rank is akin to the valuable and rare tier for Combat Pets. This Shadow Tiger, a variant among Mutant Beasts, is known for its exceptional talent. The Snake King is in for a rough time!¡±


    Concern spread among the crowd for Jiao Yuanju. Given the disparity in bloodlines, his Little Green was merely a mutated green snake, a creature of the lowest grade. Even with its mutation, could its bloodline truly rival that of the Shadow Tiger?


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s brow furrowed.


    ¡°System analysis underway.¡±


    Name: Shadow Tiger


    Master: Zhu Boyi


    Attribute: Shadow


    Level: Valuable and rare


    Skills: Power of Shadow, Shadow Clone


    Type: Mutated Evolution, Non-evolvable


    Zhu Boyi boasted with confidence, ¡°Jiao Yuanju!¡±


    ¡°Shadow Tiger, unleash the Power of Shadow!¡±


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 Chapter 35

    C35 ¨C The Number One Figure of the Azure Academy


    Before he had time to think, he witnessed the Shadow Tiger¡¯s formidable frame roar skyward, sending shockwaves throughout the martial arts arena. In an instant, its massive three-meter body lunged at the small green snake, Eoldrai, in the center of the field, its eyes like crimson amber, bearing down on the serpent.


    Eoldrai¡¯s response was lightning-fast. Flicking its tongue, it nimbly dodged aside.


    The Shadow Tiger¡¯s fearsome ck ws struck the spot where Eoldrai had just been, its dark energy fracturing the metal arena floor designed to withstand a thousand kilograms of force. The sheer power of the Shadow Tiger was horrifying!


    Spectators buzzed with excitement. Lei Sheng dered icily, ¡°This guy¡¯s Combat Pet is a Shadow Tiger, the most powerful Mutant Beast onnd. Jiao Yuanju is doomed to defeat. His green snake, no matter how potent its venom, stands no chance. It probably can¡¯t even pierce the Shadow Tiger¡¯s hide!¡±


    He then chuckled, ¡°Seems like it¡¯s time to talk about Jiao Yuanju stepping down as captain. The new captain is bound to be one of us!¡±


    Xie Ziyu, despite doubting Jiao Yuanju¡¯s odds, remainedposed as she watched the youth. She harbored an unexined faith in him, her intuition whispering that his abilities were far more profound than they appeared.


    Yet Jiao Yuanju maintained his easy smile, seemingly unconcerned about the possibility of his pet being crushed into a pulp by the Shadow Tiger.


    Zhu Boyi scoffed, ¡°Let¡¯s see how much longer you can dodge!¡±


    ¡°Shadow Tiger, shadow clone!¡±


    With an enraged roar, the Shadow Tiger¡¯s body shimmered with a ck glow, bing somewhat ethereal. In a blink, it shed a stream of ck light from itself, forming a second Shadow Tiger, this one even more ghostly, a mere shadow in form.


    Onlookers gaped at the incredible spectacle, murmuring, ¡°The shadow clone is an exceedingly rare ability. Even among Shadow-type Mutant Beasts, few possess it. This Shadow Tiger is unbelievably strong!¡±


    ¡°The Shadow Tiger¡¯s shadow may not be tangible, but it canunch an attack as powerful as the actual beast. This means God Jiao¡¯s Combat Pet is facing an onught from not one, but two Shadow Tigers!¡±


    The crowd¡¯s confidence wavered, many starting to doubt Jiao Yuanju¡¯s chances of victory against the stranger from Apex Academy.


    Jiao Yuanju remained still, his gaze vacant as if struck dumb with fear.


    The two Shadow Tigers lunged at Eoldrai with a ferocity that sent shivers through the onlookers.


    Zhu Boyi couldn¡¯t hide his smugness, lifting his head proudly to taunt, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, there¡¯s still time to bow down and apologize. I¡¯m quite forgiving, you know. I might even spare your Combat Pet if you promise to steer clear of me¡ªand Heyi¡ªfrom now on. What do you say?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was silent, too overwhelmed with emotion to utter a word.


    ¡°The system has detected the Shadow Tiger and can autonomously initiate a skill graft with its species. Would you like to proceed with the graft?¡±


    ¡°Hold on, what are you saying? Skill grafting? Does it transfer someone else¡¯s skill directly onto me?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was incredulous. The system¡¯s ability to evolve pets was one thing, but to forcibly copy skills within the same species was astounding!


    ¡°Proceed with the exchange!¡±


    The system chimed in once more, ¡°Congrattions, host, for acquiring the enhanced system skill ¡®shadow clone.¡¯ This clone possesses the same power as the original!¡±


    The skill panel popped up, revealing Eoldrai¡¯s arsenal: Concealment, Poison Teeth, Fog of Darkness, Realization, Shadow Clone.


    The skill replication was a sess, but Jiao Yuanju knew this wasn¡¯t the moment for experimentation. With a confident smile, hemanded, ¡°Eoldrai, Realize your power¡ªshow them what you¡¯re made of!¡±


    ck fog swirled around Eoldrai, manifesting without the need for the Fog of Darkness.


    As the two Shadow Tigers converged on Eoldrai, many girls in the audience couldn¡¯t bear to watch, covering their eyes and screaming, dreading the sight of Eoldrai being ripped apart. Disappointment hung heavy in the air; they all believed Jiao Yuanju¡¯s dazed state signaled his inability to fend off the Shadow Tigers¡¯ assault. It seemed the Azure Academy¡¯s top warrior was on the brink of defeat.


    Many were beginning to doubt themselves. Could it really be that graduates from Azure Academy were eternally outssed by those from the other top academies?


    ¡°Look!¡±


    All eyes were wide with astonishment. From the fog of darkness behind Eoldrai, two massive ws emerged. They pinned the Shadow Tigers to the ground with ease. A slight increase in pressure from one w, and the Shadow Clone vanished into thin air. The remaining Shadow Tiger shook with terror, looking up at Eoldrai with a pitiful whine.


    ¡°This can¡¯t be happening!¡±


    Zhu Boyi¡¯s face went ghostly white with fear.


    With a beckoning gesture from Jiao Yuanju, Eoldrai leaped onto his shoulder, offering Zhu Boyi a warm,forting smile.


    The crowd, several hundred strong, buzzed with excitement, their faces flushed with enthusiasm. This incredible twist had propelled their admiration for Jiao Yuanju to new heights.


    But the most astonished of all was Lei Sheng, who eximed, ¡°It was Eoldrai all along!¡±


    Xie Ziyu watched Jiao Yuanju with shining eyes, biting her lip as if she had just discovered a long-concealed, priceless jewel.

 Chapter 36

    C36 ¨C The Shi Family


    ¡°The Snake King is incredible!¡± ¡°He truly deserves to be Azure Academy¡¯s top champion. The folks from Apex Academy can¡¯t strut around so proudly now.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju left with a smile on his face.


    Panic shed in Zhu Boyi¡¯s eyes. He turned to the other two Apex Academy students and said, ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here!¡±


    The Azure Academy crowd quickly encircled them. The boys raised their voices, ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±


    ¡°We need an exnation!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not leaving until you apologize to us today!¡±


    Zhu Boyi was sweating profusely as he stammered, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, everyone. I promise I won¡¯te back!¡±


    One of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s devoted female fans shouted, ¡°Enough talk. You need to apologize to each of us, one by one!¡±


    ¡°And you owe God Jiao an apology too!¡±


    As Zhu Boyi was frantically wondering what to do, he noticed the Shadow Tiger that had been cowering on the ground suddenly spring up and take off after Jiao Yuanju.


    ¡°Durvu, where are you going? Stop!¡± he called out.


    But Zhu Boyi was yanked back into the throng of people, powerless to do anything but watch his pet chase after Jiao Yuanju. He looked on the verge of tears.


    [The Shadow Tiger¡¯s adoration for Eoldrai has been detected. The automatic pet retrieval function is limited to elite level. Would you like to bind the Shadow Tiger?]


    Jiao Yuanju stared at the ck and white tiger lying on the ground, gazing up at him with a pleading look. He was at a loss for words. Disciplining Zhu Boyi was one thing, but taking his pet? Would Zhu Boyi challenge him to a fight to the death over this?


    ¡°Well, I should definitely take in this pet that sought me out on its own. It was the one that came to me first, after all!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju certainly wasn¡¯t going to refuse. So, he cheerfully agreed, ¡°I consent to bind the Shadow Tiger!¡±


    ¡°Binding sessful. Congrattions to the host for acquiring the Shadow Tiger!¡±


    A sense of a deep bond emerged. The Shadow Tiger in front of him slowly rose and gently nibbled at the hem of Jiao Yuanju¡¯s clothing.


    Zhu Boyi, who had been desperately running back, caught sight of this moment. He swore loudly, then his eyes rolled back, and he copsed in a faint!


    ¡°Jiao, the principal wants to see you!¡±


    A student, out of breath and with a look of awe, approached Jiao Yuanju with the message.


    ¡°What does the principal want with me?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju nced at the Shadow Tiger sprawled on the ground like a pug and was reminded of the opportunity to earn blood points. He quickly inquired, ¡°System, how do I stow this tiger away?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s quite straightforward, Host. Since you¡¯ve activated your bloodline power and possess the Asura Combat Body, you can ce it into the Realm of Shadows.¡±


    ¡°The Realm of Shadows is that effective? It¡¯s practically like a Combat Pet Bag, but far more sophisticated. The Combat Pet Bag may be pricey and only holds one pet, but my Realm of Shadows spans dozens of square meters!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was inwardly delighted. With a simple gesture, the Shadow Tiger was absorbed into the Realm of Shadows. The onlookers assumed Jiao Yuanju had used a Combat Pet Bag.


    In the principal¡¯s office, an elder sat with an air of tranquility. Beside him were Yun Zhengchu and Pei Xiaobo, themanders of the border defense forces.


    Principal Pei Dong tentatively asked, ¡°May I ask why you¡¯re seeking Jiao Yuanju? Has he done something wrong?¡±


    Yun Zhengchu replied with a wry smile, ¡°We¡¯re not sure ourselves; we¡¯re just apanying Elder Shi.¡±


    ¡°Elder Shi?¡±


    Pei Dong paused, then his excitement surged. ¡°You mean Shi Jianyuan? The enigmatic guardian of Krukshire¡¯s elite team and the head of the Shi family, one of the three major ns?¡±


    ¡°Exactly.¡±


    Both men cast a nce at the elder who was resting with his eyes closed on a nearby chair.


    Pei Dong grew even more deferential and didn¡¯t dare to interrupt the silence that had fallen among them.


    When Jiao Yuanju pushed the door open and stepped inside, he was taken aback. ¡°Oh, what brings you all here?¡±


    Pei Xiaobo greeted him with joy, ¡°You¡¯ve arrived. Please, have a seat!¡±


    All eyes turned to him, and the elder opened his eyes, scrutinizing the young man with interest.


    Jiao Yuanju made his way to Pei Xiaobo. Having been through life-and-death situations together, they were like brothers in arms. Without any formality, Jiao Yuanju sat down right next to him.


    Pei Dong chuckled, ¡°It¡¯s this gentleman here who¡¯s been looking for you.¡±


    With that, he stepped back with an air of detachment.


    Jiao Yuanju eyed the old man, who was still beaming at him, and asked, ¡°You were looking for me?¡±


    The elderughed heartily, ¡°So you¡¯re Jiao Yuanju? I¡¯ve heard about your deeds. Not only did you rescue Pei Xiaobo and his group, but today you also saved my niece from the orcs. For someone so young, your abilities and Combat Pet are exceptional¡ªa true young hero indeed!¡±


    Jiao pressed on, ¡°What do you need from me?¡±


    The old man¡¯s smile widened, ¡°How would you like to join Krukshire¡¯s Ace Combat Pet Team? Full disclosure, I¡¯m the team¡¯s leader and a member of the Shi family. Or perhaps, you¡¯d consider joining the Shi family itself?¡±


    There it was!


    Yun Zhengchu exchanged a knowing look with the old man, both managing a wry smile. Clearly, the elder was not just scouting on behalf of Krukshire¡¯s official ranks¡ªhe had his own agenda.


    The elder enticed him further, ¡°Are you aware that times have changed? The most formidable power in the Land of the Rising Sun is now the Puwhary Alliance. Let me tell you, resources are what matter most in today¡¯s world. The Shi family, a martial arts dynasty before the world¡¯s great destruction, is now in control of numerous resources. Join the Shi family, and you could rise to my level!¡±


    ¡°What kind of resources?¡±


    Shi Jianyuan¡¯s voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper, ¡°Resources that can trigger the evolution of Combat Pets and stimte human gic potential!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s mind was swirling with confusion. Wasn¡¯t there supposed to be only one system? How could they all evolve?


    Unable to contain himself, Yun Zhengchu interjected, ¡°Elder Shi, it¡¯s true that the Magic Stone¡¯s energy can spur gic evolution, but so far, you¡¯re the only one who has undergone such a transformation. That might be due to a lifetime of martial arts training. Jiao Yuanju¡¯s Combat Pet is impressive, but he himself isn¡¯t a martial artist.¡±


    Shi Jianyuan fixed him with a stern look, ¡°Are you here to stir up trouble?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju discerned that gene evolution depended on the Magic Stone, and it appeared to be quite challenging, certainly not as swift as the system made it seem!


    ¡°I refuse!¡±


    With that, Jiao Yuanju spun on his heel and strode away.


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 Chapter 37

    C37 ¨C The Beast Fighting Arena


    Shi Jianyuan was clearly distressed as he implored, ¡°You¡¯ve managed to withstand a strike from the Berserk Lion King. With such credentials, you¡¯re undoubtedly a prodigy. Being a Combat Pet Master is a profession, but to truly excel, you need strength that matches yourbat pet. The Shi family can train you in martial arts to enhance your physical condition.¡±


    ¡°Furthermore, I¡¯ve heard about your father¡¯s leg injury. Gene duplication technology is exclusive to the Alliance Center in Sky Capital. Institutions like Riverdale Institute, Acadia College, and Coral Coast College are equipped with it because they supply the Alliance with formidable Combat Pet Masters. With the Shi family¡¯s influence, we can secure you a spot there!¡±


    ¡°Riverdale Combat Pet Academy¡­¡± Jiao Yuanju shook his head in refusal, yet his eyes betrayed his resolve; he was determined to make it on his own.


    Elder Shi was taken aback by his obstinacy, eximing in frustration, ¡°This kid!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s n was straightforward. With his system, he and his Combat Pet were bound to grow stronger. All he needed was to know where to look. He was aware that in a month, the Krukshire Academy Combat Pet Competition would take ce. Like the top three in humanities, the top three in the Combat Pet contest would secure admission to the three prestigious academies. That¡¯s how Jiao Qin had gotten into Riverdale.


    He looked at Eoldrai, brimming with confidence. ¡°In a month, if I can just boost Eoldrai¡¯s strength a bit more, I won¡¯t need anyone¡¯s help to get into the academy!¡±


    ¡°Right now, though, I need to focus on making money. My mother is the sole breadwinner, and Jiao Qin¡¯s expenses are already substantial. As a Combat Pet Master, I can start contributing. Plus, for my father¡¯s and Jiao Qin¡¯s sake, it¡¯s time I stepped up!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju racked his brain for ways to earn money. A repeat of hisst wager with Lei Sheng was out of the question. With his newfound reputation, challenging him to a bet would be seen as foolish by anyone at school.


    Jing Haokuo was gleefully gnawing on a chicken leg, his mouth slick with grease. Upon spotting Jiao Yuanju, he couldn¡¯t contain his excitement and bellowed, ¡°Boss!¡±


    Offering up the chicken leg with a grand gesture, he mumbled, ¡°Want a bite?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju took one look at his physique and fell silent.


    ¡°Haokuo, keep eating like that, and your Earth Boar won¡¯t be able to lug you around anymore.¡±


    Unperturbed, Jing Haokuo boasted, ¡°No worries, it¡¯s got a bigger appetite than I do.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s eyes sparkled at the thought of the arena.


    ¡°Hey, Fatty, where¡¯s the most famous pet arena in Krukshire? The kind where you can rake in the cash?¡±


    Jing Haokuo paused his munching and gave Jiao Yuanju a curious nce. ¡°Boss, count me in on that money-making action!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju was at a loss for words. He hadn¡¯t said a thing. How did Haokuo know?


    But Jing Haokuo was already riding a wave of excitement. He pulled out a bag, stuffed the chicken leg inside, and began to dance around Jiao Yuanju. ¡°Boss, I¡¯ll show you the way to Krukshire¡¯s grandest colosseum. It¡¯s the quickest way to make a fortune. If you¡¯re tough enough, you can win big!¡±


    Then, with a pitiful look, he pleaded, ¡°Boss, you¡¯ve got to take me with you. I¡¯ll work like an ox, like a horse, all for a future filled with chicken legs!¡±


    Without a second thought, Jiao Yuanju grinned and replied, ¡°Fine, we¡¯ll head there. You lead the way!¡±


    ¡°Deal!¡±


    In that moment, Jing Haokuo¡¯s belly jiggled as he broke into a trot, moving faster than he ever had before, as if he wished he could take flight.


    Meanwhile, at the ck Lava Colosseum in Krukshire.


    A waitressid a stack of bills on a table, addressing a tall, masked girl with deference, ¡°Ms. Xie, your earnings from thest match are here. Your fame has tripled the stakes, so this is 30,000 Alliance Coins. Please take good care of it.¡±


    ¡°Deposit it into my bank ount, please.¡±


    Under her ck mask, the girl¡¯s eyes were icy, her figure impably sculpted by the tight ck leather she wore, exuding an irresistible allure.


    The server, with a hint of concern, whispered, ¡°Miss, even though Young Master Jing made an inappropriate advance towards you in the arena, you¡¯ve not only disabled his Combat Pet but also broke his bones. He¡¯s unlikely to let this slide so easily, especially since he hails from a family of martial artists.¡±


    After a brief silence, Xie Ziyu responded softly, ¡°Thank you for the warning.¡±


    At the entrance of the ck Lava Colosseum, Jing Haokuo munched on the barbecue Jiao Yuanju had bought him from a street vendor, his spirits high. ¡°This is my first time in such a high-end ce. With you by my side, my prospects are looking up. I can already picture you sending a crowd running for cover!¡±


    His unabashed words drew the gaze of passersby entering the Colosseum. ¡°Who is that, being so brazen?¡±


    A muscr man in a ck tank top nced over with a detached air, nked by two equally formidable men. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Xi Wenhan from the ck Lava Colosseum? I¡¯ve heard his Combat Pet, the Giant Horned Rhinoceros, has a fearsome attack that¡¯s virtually unstoppable!¡±


    ¡°This kid is clueless about the extent of his own audacity. Xi Wenhan looks ticked off; this is not going to end well for the youngster.¡±


    With his arms folded, Xi Wenhan remarked coolly, ¡°Kid, you¡¯ve got quite the nerve. I¡¯d like to see if you¡¯re bold enough to face me and force me to retreat. Do you have the guts?¡±


    Jiao Yuanju replied withposure, ¡°Then you¡¯d better up the stakes at the casino. I have a feeling they won¡¯t have enough to cover today¡¯s losses.¡±


    His statement sent ripples of astonishment through the crowd. Was he really that audacious? Was he aiming to win so much that the casino would go under?


    Xi Wenhan let out a scornfulugh. ¡°Big talk for someone so young. I¡¯ll be waiting.¡±


    As they made their way into the arena, Jiao Yuanju relished the underestimation of the onlookers. He was, in fact, ready to cash in big time.


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 Chapter 38

    C38 ¨C His Father Swept Through the Entire Arena


    The hefty man shed a victorious gesture at Jiao Yuanju and dered with conviction, ¡°Boss, you¡¯ve got my support. We¡¯re definitely going to teach him a lesson today!¡±


    Within the opulent service hall of the ck Lava Colosseum, Jiao Yuanju stated inly, ¡°I¡¯d like to enter thebat pet tournament.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Which tier are you interested in? We offer a third-level beastpetition for the general public, as well as a second-level elite beastpetition for seasoned Combat Pet Masters.¡±


    Puzzled, Jiao Yuanju inquired, ¡°I¡¯m aiming for the first-level beastpetition.¡±


    The attendant replied icily, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but as this is your first visit and you have no battle record, you must ce in the top ten of the elite-level beastpetition to qualify for the first-level.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju gestured toward Xi Wenhan, who was being escorted away with reverence, and asked, ¡°Whichpetition is he entering?¡±


    With a mix of respect and admiration, the attendant answered, ¡°That¡¯s Mr. Xi Wenhan, the three-time reigning champion of our ck Lava Colosseum.¡±


    Contemtively, Jiao Yuanju asked, ¡°So, how do I get a match with him?¡±


    The attendant scoffed, ¡°You? You¡¯d have to be undefeated in the elitepetition to even be considered worthy of Mr. Xi¡¯s time. But let me caution you against biting off more than you can chew. Our Colosseum¡¯s policy is indifferent to life or death. Do you think your Combat Pet will survive that long?¡±


    Jing Haokuo retorted furiously, ¡°How dare you speak like that? Is this the service standard here? Believe me, I won¡¯t hesitate to file aint.¡±


    The attendant mped his mouth shut, his face turning a shade of steel, yet resentment still seethed in his eyes. He hadn¡¯t anticipated their boldness.


    ¡°Haokuo, that¡¯s enough,¡± Jiao Yuanju interjected.


    With a calm demeanor, Jiao Yuanju requested, ¡°Process my entry for the Elite Competition. I intend topete today.¡±


    ¡°Name or alias?¡±


    As Jiao Yuanju inwardly sensed the formidable might of his Asura Combat Body, he responded distractedly, ¡°Call me ¡®Daddy Sweeps the Arena.''¡±


    The attendant stood there, bbergasted, as Jing Haokuo¡¯s chicken leg tumbled to the floor, both staring bewilderedly at Jiao Yuanju.


    Jiao Yuanju, however, ignored them and proceeded inside, leaving the attendant to wonder, ¡°How do I fill this out?¡±


    The waiter and Jing Haokuo exchanged bewildered nces.


    After a moment, Jiao Yuanju and Jing Haokuo stood in the ready area, silently gazing at the qualification card. They had hoped to enter thepetition without drawing much attention, but now it seemed inevitable that they would be the focus of the entire arena.


    Within just twenty minutes, Jiao Yuanju was called to make his entrance. He made his way down the contestant¡¯s tunnel at a measured pace. Fearing that using Eoldrai would reveal his identity, he once again chose to bring out the Shadow Tiger.


    The Elite Beast Battle Arena was bustling with activity, mostly wealthy individuals cing their bets.


    As Jiao Yuanju stepped in, the previous contestant was triumphantly throwing punches, while his opponent¡¯s Combat Pet was bloodied and being dragged away. The atmosphere was thick with the scent of blood and the weight of solemnity. This was no academy; here, in the pursuit of money, opponents engaged in life-and-death struggles, and Combat Pets could truly perish.


    The announcer¡¯s voice rose with fervor, ¡°We now begin the next beast battle. Mr. Xie Jun, with three consecutive victories, and his Combat Pet will face off against tonight¡¯s neer¡­¡±


    The announcer¡¯s eyes bulged as he struggled with the name on the card, unable to proceed.


    Restlessness swept through the crowd. Some of the elegantly dressed, wealthy spectators in the front rows voiced their discontent, demanding, ¡°What¡¯s the holdup?¡±


    Gritting his teeth, the announcer announced, ¡°The challenger is ¡®Dad who Dominates the Arena.¡¯ Let¡¯s give him a warm wee¡­¡±


    Laughter erupted among the audience, with some even spitting out their drinks in amusement. The name was audaciously bold!


    ¡°Who does this guy think he is? Using such a brazen name, does he not fear a brutal defeat?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s quite the boaster. For his first match, he¡¯s up against Xie Jun, one of the Elite Arena¡¯s notorious ¡®Gods of Killing.¡¯ Xie Jun hails from a distinguished family. His shepherd dog, a formidable breed post-mutation, has undergone expensive gic enhancements by Xie Jun himself. It¡¯s likely on the cusp of evolving into a rare and profound Mutant Beast!¡±


    The crowd looked on at Jiao Yuanju with scorn. His defeat seemed certain.


    With a timely chuckle, the host added, ¡°Well then,dies and gentlemen, feel free to ce your bets. Xie Jun¡¯s reputation is no small matter, and the minimum wager is three thousand Alliance Coins.¡±


    No sooner had the words left his lips than the crowd began to dere their stakes.


    ¡°I¡¯m putting down five thousand Alliance Coins on Xie Jun to win.¡±


    ¡°Make that six thousand for me!¡±


    Nearly everyone was wagering on Xie Jun¡¯s triumph. A handful of wealthy individuals, in a yful spirit, ced their bets on Jiao Yuanju. Altogether, the odds were staggeringly in favor of Jiao Yuanju at 97%!


    Jing Haokuo, clutching Jiao Yuanju¡¯s money, bellowed, ¡°I¡¯m betting 10,000 Alliance Coins that Daddy will dominate and win the wholepetition!¡±


    Clearly, this was a bet Jiao Yuanju had orchestrated. He never missed a chance to make a profit. If he won this round, his earnings would skyrocket by 9.5 times,ting him close to 100,000 Alliance Coins!


    Xie Jun was the picture of elegance, a middle-aged man dressed in a fine suit, standing with a confident air in one corner of the arena. He dered with a haughty tone, ¡°Considering your youth, I¡¯ll have Canur go easy and leave your Combat Pet alive.¡±


    Jiao Yuanju scoffed, ¡°Was I not clear enough?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Xie Jun was taken aback.


    With a nonchnt air, Jiao Yuanju asked, ¡°Do you even know who I am?¡±


    Xie Jun retorted, ¡°Daddy sweeping through the crowd. Quite the punchable name you¡¯ve got there!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju simply smiled and responded, ¡°Whether I¡¯m asking for a punch or not, is that really for you to decide?¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Xie Jun¡¯s anger red in an instant.


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 Chapter 39

    C39 ¨C The Shadow Tiger Appeared


    Before they could exchange insults, the host¡¯s voice cut through the tension, ¡°Now, please bring your Combat Pets to the stage!¡±


    With a flourish, Xie Jun summoned a robust Shepherd. Its coat gleamed, and it exuded a presence as fierce and aloof as a lion¡¯s.


    The moment the Shepherd, Canur, made its entrance, the crowd erupted, chanting its name, ¡°Canur, tear him apart!¡±


    Xie Jun taunted, ¡°Kid, where¡¯s your Combat Pet? I hope it doesn¡¯t die too quickly¡ªCanur¡¯s been craving meat for a while.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, kid, if you don¡¯t release your Combat Pet soon, get off the stage. You¡¯re holding up the show, and I didn¡¯t pay top dor for a VIP ticket to wait around!¡±


    A wave of discontent washed over the crowd, directed at Jiao Yuanju.


    ¡°What impressive Combat Pet could a teenager possibly have? He¡¯s probably just an intermediate spiritual Combat Pet Master at best!¡±


    The match held little interest for many.


    Jiao Yuanju responded with a serene smile, ¡°I wasn¡¯t nning on ending the fight so quickly, but since you¡¯re all so eager, I¡¯ll make it swift.¡±


    Xie Jun scoffed, ¡°You think you can take me? Don¡¯t say I didn¡¯t warn you when I show no mercy!¡±


    Without further ado, Jiao Yuanju invoked the Realm of Shadows, and a massive ck and white tiger materialized on stage. It boasted a build as solid as a bull, and its regal, ferocious gaze swept over the crowd, unafraid even amidst a sea of humans.


    The jeers and curses that had filled the air vanished, reced by a chorus of gasps and shrieks.


    ¡°Am I seeing this right? Is that the Shadow Tiger, rumored to be on the cusp of a Profound level evolution? That¡¯s an advanced Combat Pet beyond price¡ªimpossible to purchase!¡±


    ¡°Exactly. Last year, Shadow Tiger cubs were on the market, each fetching over 1.5 million Alliance Coins, and some sold for five times that. Given that the Shadow Tiger is a variant of the ck tiger, who is this kid, and how did hee to possess such a creature?¡±


    The Shadow Tiger¡¯s debut stunned everyone. Canur was suddenly an afterthought, its worth paling inparison to the Shadow Tiger¡¯s.


    The moment Xie Jun caught sight of the Shadow Tiger, hisplexion went ashen, and he gasped in disbelief, ¡°How can this be? You actually have a Shadow Tiger!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju responded coolly, ¡°Are you still up for the challenge?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Xie Jun instinctively wanted to concede, but the crowd¡¯s scornful reactions fueled his fury. A mix of indignation and rage surged to his forehead, and he bellowed, ¡°Canur, Sprint!¡±


    The ck dog crackled with energy, revealing itself as a lightning-type Combat Pet, charging at the Shadow Tiger with bolts of electricity.


    The Shadow Tiger regarded its adversary with scorn, as if engaging such a foe was beneath the dignity of the King of Beasts.


    With a mighty roar from the Shadow Tiger, the sheer arrogance and wildness sent a palpable wave of intimidation through the crowd. To everyone¡¯s astonishment, the Shepherd Hound, upon hearing the roar, copsed in terror, its front legs buckling, and it face-nted in a humbling disy. Its legs shook uncontrobly as its eyes brimmed with fear and pity, utterly petrified by the Shadow Tiger.


    Xie Jun¡¯s expression darkened. No amount of coaxing could persuade Canur to rise.


    ¡°The Shadow Tiger truly is the monarch among tigers. We¡¯ve all been blind to its majesty!¡±


    The host, also taken aback, announced, ¡°Jiao Yuanju and the Shadow Tiger are victorious, earning a reward of five thousand Alliance Coins!¡±


    From the audience, Jing Haokuo couldn¡¯t contain his excitement, yelling, ¡°Jiao is invincible! I¡¯m rich!¡±


    Withposure, Jiao Yuanju descended from the stage, leaving an indelible impression on all who witnessed. Could he be the one to stir up a tempest in the elite arena?


    Following his initial triumph, Jiao Yuanju shone brilliantly throughout the night!


    In the subsequent matches, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s Shadow Tiger remained the center of attention. His adversaries either surrendered immediately or charged headlong into defeat. The Combat Pets that faced him were left battered by the Shadow Tiger¡¯s fearsome ws. The Shadow Tiger, already a formidable force, hadn¡¯t even resorted to using its shadow clone. Its Power of Shadow alone was enough to strike terror into the hearts of many!


    In a single evening, through betting and prize money, Jiao Yuanju amassed an astonishing 210,000 Alliance Coins!


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s only regret was that the fame of the Shadow Tiger was a double-edged sword. As his supporters grew in number, his odds plummeted. As soon as he entered the arena, the majority of bets were ced on his victory without a second thought, making it impossible for him to make money through wagering.


    ¡°$210,000!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju¡¯s excitement was palpable as he checked his bank bnce at the front desk. He hadted a substantial sum in just one night!


    But it wasn¡¯t just the money. He had dominated every match with ease, swiftly earning the nickname ¡°Tiger King.¡± The moniker ¡°Tiger King,¡± a tribute to his father¡¯s sweeping victories, became the talk of the ck Lava Colosseum, hailed as the year¡¯s most sensational codename.


    ¡°If I win two more matches tomorrow, I¡¯ll break into the top ten elites. That will secure my spot in the premier tier of the beast fightingpetition.¡±


    Jing Haokuo gazed at Jiao Yuanju with sheer admiration, his excitement bubbling over. ¡°Boss, you¡¯re incredible. Seeing those people so terrified just gets me pumped!¡±


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 Chapter 40

    C40 ¨C Members of the Jing Family


    Jiao Yuanju felt a surge of warmth. At the academy, the only person who seemed to treat him with genuine care was this seemingly goofy, chubby guy. Despite his penchant for food and a bit ofziness, his heart was in the right ce. Jiao Yuanju truly valued this kind of friendship.


    ¡°Fatty, here¡¯s your money!¡± Jiao Yuanju said with a smile to Jing Haokuo.


    Jing Haokuo was puzzled by Jiao Yuanju¡¯s remark when his phone suddenly rang. He checked it and found a deposit of forty thousand Alliance Coins.


    ¡°Boss!¡± Jing Haokuo gasped in astonishment.


    ¡°You¡¯ve earned it,¡± Jiao Yuanju said with a grin. ¡°Treat yourself to a nice meal at home. We¡¯re going to make even more money in the future!¡±


    Moved to the brink of tears, Jing Haokuo realized he had never experienced such genuine kindness in his life.


    After wiping away his tears and nodding firmly, Jing Haokuo bid farewell to Jiao Yuanju and headed home.


    Strolling through the streets, Jiao Yuanju quietly monitored the blood points ruing in his system. The pace of earning them seemed painfully slow.


    He pondered when to take on missions from the military, hoping to venture beyond the city walls with Shadow Tiger and Eoldrai to hunt Mutant Beasts.


    ¡°Go and tie her up!¡±


    As he passed a side street, Jiao Yuanju¡¯s attention was caught by a man¡¯s harsh shout echoing from a distant alley. He halted abruptly.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    Night had fallen, leaving only the streetlights to pierce the darkness. Due to resource scarcity, many secluded alleysy in shadow.


    Jiao Yuanju wasn¡¯t one to pry into others¡¯ affairs, but as he was about to leave, a woman¡¯s pained moan reached his ears¡ªa sound eerily familiar to him.


    He ventured down the alley where the dim light revealed a group of five or six men, metal des in hand, blocking the exit. They were clearly up to no good.


    Through the gloom, Jiao Yuanju could just make out a slender woman dressed in ck, encircled by the men.


    Jing Pengzu, with a swift kick, sent a massive spider flying. Clutching his de-sliced shoulder, he seethed, ¡°So you¡¯ll only obey after I¡¯ve killed your Combat Pet, is that it?¡±


    Five or six gray wolves encircled therge spider, poised to rip it to shreds at their master¡¯smand.


    The girl¡¯s voice was icy as she dered, ¡°If Jing Hongqian dares harbor any malevolent thoughts toward me again, I won¡¯t hesitate to kill him next time, regardless of his status!¡±


    ¡°How dare you insult the young master like that!¡±


    ¡°I say we just tie her up and bring her back. Let the young master deal with her himself. He¡¯ll be thrilled tonight, haha!¡±


    The Jing family members ogled the girl¡¯s striking figure unabashedly, their eyes alight with lust and mockery. In Krukshire, there was nothing the Jing family wouldn¡¯t dare to do.


    A wolf¡¯s agonized howl pierced the air as a massive tiger, emerging from nowhere, mped its jaws around a gray wolf¡¯s throat, silencing it instantly.


    Startled by the abrupt turn of events, the men hastily backed away, eximing in rm, ¡°A tiger-type Mutant Beast!¡±


    Before they could say more, another gray wolf met its end as a shadowy tiger tore open its belly. After a few pitiful cries, ity dead.


    Panic set in among the Jing family members. ¡°Could there be two wolves? Scatter!¡±


    Xie Ziyu, who had been on the brink of despair, watched the scene unfold with astonishment. Someone was rescuing her!


    Despite her young age, Xie Ziyu¡¯s mind was astoundingly mature. Seizing the moment of chaos, she swiftly stowed her Combat Pet into its bag. With a burst of speed, she pressed her hand onto a Jing family member¡¯s head and, like a graceful butterfly, flitted past their defenses and out of the alley.


    Outside, she encountered an unexpected ally and eximed, ¡°Jiao Yuanju!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju offered her a reassuring smile and said firmly, ¡°Leave them to me.¡±


    Xie Ziyu quickly cautioned him, ¡°Jiao Yuanju, please, don¡¯t act rashly. They¡¯re from martial families with formidable individual strength, on par with Mutant Beasts. Eoldrai won¡¯t be able to handle them!¡±


    Jiao Yuanju didn¡¯t reply but strode forward with determination.


    Meanwhile, the six men, grappling with the Shadow Tiger, realized the truth amidst their shock. ¡°The Shadow Tiger! Can it really contend with all of us at once? It must have a shadow clone. Someone¡¯s helping that girl escape. Don¡¯t let her get away!¡±


    Two individuals immediately dashed out of the alley, intent on pursuing Xie Ziyu.


    Yet, they came to an abrupt halt, eyeing Jiao Yuanju with suspicion as he strolled in at a leisurely pace. They scoffed, ¡°Kid, who do you think you are? If you value your life, you¡¯d better beat it!¡±


    With a devilish grin, Jiao Yuanju stretched his newly toughened frame, the result of evolving into the Asura Combat Body, and replied coolly, ¡°Apologies, but I¡¯m actually in the mood for a near-death experience. How about we throw down?¡±


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