Chapter 75: Just One Step Away

In terms of sheer strength, when Kebei unleashed both the Nine Suns Divine Art and the Fifth Thunder Slash in an instant, his power surpassed even the full-force blow of a high-ranking Divine Clan member. It was no surprise he managed to break through Zhao Gang’s defenses. This was, after all, merely a contest—Kebei’s only aim was to secure a spot to enter the Tower of Ascension. The broadsword in his hand was unstained by blood; there was no enmity between him and Zhao Gang. In fact, Kebei felt a measure of admiration for the man, and thus refrained from revealing his final trump card.

The force behind Kebei’s strike was overwhelming. Even with the protection of thick, earthen-yellow armor, the tremendous impact still reverberated through it, shaking Zhao Gang to his core.

A cough wracked Zhao Gang’s body, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth. Stunned, he gazed at the shattered remnants of his armor, now scattered in pieces at his feet. Having witnessed Kebei’s extraordinary speed earlier, Zhao Gang had assumed Kebei’s innate ability was related to quickness. He never expected such terrifying strength—enough to injure him through the armor. Though the wound was not grievous, the sheer might behind that blow left Zhao Gang speechless with shock.

Not just speed! Such overwhelming strength as well! Innate abilities of this caliber were exceedingly rare.

“What incredible power—how exhilarating!” Zhao Gang’s astonishment gradually faded, replaced by a surging fighting spirit that seemed to sweep out in waves. Earthen-yellow energy nearly solidified around him, enveloping a ten-meter radius.

“This month’s spot for the Tower of Ascension is vital to me,” Kebei said, his voice low as he faced the newly invigorated Zhao Gang.

“I’m sorry…” Kebei sighed inwardly. In truth, he admired Zhao Gang, but he could not afford to wait any longer for his chance at the Tower. The broadsword glided lightly across his palm, and beads of bright red blood seeped into the hilt. A faint, obscure silver gleam flickered as a hint of helplessness crossed Kebei’s face. If the broadsword was stained with blood, the consequences would be unpredictable.

Without unleashing all his trump cards, Kebei knew he could not defeat Zhao Gang. But if the broadsword tasted blood in a full-force attack, it could well cost Zhao Gang his life—something Kebei wished to avoid. Thus, he was left feeling helpless.

“You want a spot in the Tower? With your strength, you’re bound to get one next month. Why insist on going this month?” Zhao Gang, reading the gravity in Kebei’s expression, asked in confusion.

“I have a reason I must go.” Kebei frowned, gripping his blood-stained broadsword, and took a deliberate step forward.

“Very well, in that case…” Zhao Gang paused, then uttered words that took Kebei by surprise. “Take the spot for this month.”

“Why?” Kebei was momentarily stunned. This was no ordinary place—if Zhao Gang yielded it, his own ranking on the Azure Dragon List would fall.

“Hahaha, no reason. I like you, and I don’t give a damn about that blasted Azure Dragon List. I have the strength—what do I care? I’ll go up whenever I please!” The earthen-yellow energy around Zhao Gang faded as he strode up to Kebei, speaking heartily.

“I know you didn’t give it your all, but neither did I. I look forward to our next bout!” he said. “A fight should be fought wholeheartedly; if your mind is burdened, it’s not the kind of battle I enjoy!”

He laughed boisterously. “Lately, I’ve gained new insights in my training. Next month is just as good for the Tower. Don’t let me down—next time, give me a true battle!”

With a few hearty laughs, Zhao Gang’s calf muscles tensed, and in the next instant he leapt from the stone arena.

Kebei watched Zhao Gang’s retreating figure, a smile curling on his lips. “A true man of character,” he thought. “I’ll remember this favor.”

He cast a long look at Zhao Gang, then stepped down from the stone stage. With the matter of the spot resolved, the next step was to earn the Tower’s approval.

“How amazing—someone ranked thirty-first on the Azure Dragon List isn’t even your match…” Luo Ling approached with a bright smile, sidling up to Kebei like a child and clutching his arm, giving him a thumbs-up. She had clearly noticed that Zhao Gang hadn’t used his full strength, but regardless, Kebei had won and secured the coveted place in the Tower of Ascension. That alone was reason for joy—if Kebei was happy, so was she.

“He didn’t go all out; if he had, I might not have been able to defeat him,” Kebei replied with a modest, sincere smile. He had no inkling of Luo Ling’s thoughts, but now that he’d gained the spot, a weight was lifted from his heart, bringing him one step closer to completing the second stage of the Nine Suns Divine Art.

“To think that, since we parted at Wushan City, your strength has reached such heights,” Xiao Jiu exclaimed, staring at Kebei in awe, tinged with envy. Back in Wushan City, their abilities were almost evenly matched—though Kebei had slain more low-level Divine Clan members, Xiao Jiu had not been convinced. Yet in just over a month, Kebei’s strength had soared, to the point where he could stand against someone ranked thirty-first on the Azure Dragon List.

Along with his amazement, Xiao Jiu felt a pang of jealousy.

“The gap keeps widening… I need to work harder, too.” Xiao Jiu smiled faintly, determination flashing in his eyes as he clenched his fists.

“Kebei, go and prepare well. In two days, I’ll be entrusting my little sister to your care,” Luo Han said, clapping Kebei on the shoulder, his deep voice rumbling.

“Hm? What do you mean?” Kebei was taken aback. Luo Ling had joined the Nine Rivers Base Genius Training Camp around the same time as he had, but her strength shouldn’t be enough to break into the top sixty of the Azure Dragon List. What did it mean to entrust her to him? He was about to depart for Moonwatch Lake in two days—how was he supposed to look after Luo Ling? Besides, she didn’t need his protection.

“Hahaha, Ling’er will be entering the Tower with you in two days. As a man, it’s only right you take care of her. She’s my only sister—if you let a single hair on her head come to harm, you’ll answer to me!” Luo Han laughed heartily at Kebei’s bewilderment.

“Luo Ling has a place too?” Kebei scratched his head, confused.

“Ahem, well, about that… Ling’er made a fuss at home for days, insisting on going with you. The old man couldn’t withstand her pleading, so he agreed. Of course, a real man should rely on his own strength!” Luo Han glanced at Luo Ling’s slightly reproachful eyes and hurriedly added, “But Ling’er isn’t a man—a little mischief now and then is fine.”

Hearing this, Kebei was suddenly struck. “She just made a fuss at home and got a place? Just how powerful is the force behind Luo Ling?” He looked deeply at her lovely face, his throat tightening as he swallowed hard, momentarily speechless.

PS: Many thanks to Brother Pistachio for the reward, to Brother 1210111857, and to the two brothers from Qidian Mobile. Your support means a lot—thank you! Please vote for the book—one recommendation per person is enough! My gratitude once again.