Chapter 116: Chapter 116: A Growing Battle and the First Encounter with the Golden Generation
Chapter 116: A Growing Battle and the First Encounter with the Golden Generation
"A Holy Son? Is this fight really that significant?" Han Li was somewhat surprised. This was making a far bigger scene than he had expected.
"There's no other way. That woman, Bibi Dong, actually touched Big Brother's bottom line. Trying to establish her disciple as the Holy Maiden? She's completely delusional."
Han Li clearly saw a flicker of coldness pass over both Guang Ling and Qingluan's faces as they spoke.
Back when Bibi Dong was made Holy Maiden, no one opposed it because she was exceptionally talented, surpassing everyone in her generation, and she was the personal disciple of the Pope.
But Hu Liena? First of all, she wasn't even born with innate full soul power, and her martial soul wasn't particularly strong. Most importantly, she was in the same generation as a direct descendant of the Qian family, a Heaven's Chosen with innate rank 20 soul power and an Angel Martial Soul. She had nothing outstanding to her name being the Pope's disciple alone wasn't enough to qualify her.
"I understand, Master, Uncle. I'll make sure to win, and I'll try to make it look good."
Han Li's immediate response caused Qingluan to glance at him in surprise. Given Han Li's personality, Qingluan had expected him to hold back and keep a low profile, much like he had always done before.
Sensing his uncle's gaze, Han Li simply smiled without explaining.
Had this happened before Guang Ling took him on that trip, he probably would have done exactly as Qingluan expected held back, made sure not to make things too difficult for anyone, and continued to hide his true abilities.
But now? He had come to realize that stepping forward and maximizing his advantages was far better than staying in the shadows.
Forget other resources just soul bones alone were a massive incentive. If he remembered correctly, a Holy Son or Holy Maiden of Spirit Hall had the right to request the Hall to gather five soul bones for them unconditionally.
Of course, he would need to prove his worth for them to be delivered quickly, but that wasn't a problem. Though he personally didn't care much for soul bones yet, they would be extremely useful for the people around him. Rejecting free soul bones? Now that would be the real foolishness.
"Excellent. Now that's the spirit."
"Get ready, then. Three days from now, in the training grounds of the Pope's Palace, give those three a thorough beating."
Guang Ling's face flushed with excitement. His little fledgling was finally about to take center stage.
"Yes, Master." Han Li answered firmly.
For the next few days, the training ground became much livelier, with two extra Titled Douluo constantly watching their sessions, occasionally offering corrections.
Of all the students, Shui Bing'er suffered the most.
Her first soul skill was powerful extremely so. A wide area, instantaneous, targeted control ability that worked well when paired with strong attacks, making it an absolute nightmare for first encounters.
But unfortunately, her soul power was the lowest, and her offensive abilities were still very limited. Right now, she could only rely on the natural chill of her martial soul to cause damage. Against training partners, she could at least put up a fight, but against any of the other three, she stood no chance.
Han Li was outright immune to her ice attacks, and his control over ice elements far exceeded hers. She couldn't do anything against him.
Dugu Yan was briefly affected by her control ability, but her bloodflame instantly dispelled it.
Xiu'er suffered the most from the ice, but she didn't even care. With both of her enhancement skills activated, she simply powered through the control effect with brute strength. Shui Bing'er's ice did nothing to harm her, and once her soul power ran low, Xiu'er would catch up and take her down in a single strike game over.
Once Uncle officially takes her in, her martial soul will evolve. With the Ice Phoenix's power, she should be able to manipulate ice elements more efficiently. I'll teach her some techniques later so she won't be completely helpless in battle.
Han Li silently made plans for her future training.
Three days passed in the blink of an eye, and the day of the battle arrived.
At dawn, Han Li's residence was unusually busy.
Excluding Qian Daoliu and the still secluded Jin Crocodile, the remaining five Titled Douluo of the Elder Hall had arrived early.
According to Guang Ling, this was called "setting the stage." The overwhelming show of force gave the scene a distinctly gangster like atmosphere, making Han Li want to cover his face and slip away unnoticed.
Guang Ling was pleased with the formidable display. With a wave of his hand, he declared, "Let's move out."
Thus, a procession of nine mighty figures departed in grand fashion. The palace guards bowed with utmost respect, and bystanders unaware of the situation might have thought they were marching off to annihilate the Upper Three Clans.
Upon reaching the Pope's Palace, they proceeded along the main path toward the training grounds. Everywhere they went, people stopped in their tracks and respectfully bowed, causing their advance to slow somewhat.
Finally, they stepped into the arena.
The place was already filled with people, yet an eerie silence prevailed. Everyone present was a high ranking member of Spirit Hall, and they were all well aware of the stakes behind this battle.
Until the outcome was decided, no one dared to act rashly. Even those who had already pledged allegiance to one side or the other were nervous, hoping they wouldn't get dragged into the conflict.
The group of nine walked to the left center seating area, leaving the most prominent seats open. They then settled in, waiting for the match to begin.
Han Li took the opportunity to size up his opponents for the day.
Hu Liena black haired, not particularly stunning at first glance, but she had a charm that made her more appealing the longer one looked. Her natural allure was slightly intriguing, but it barely had any effect on Han Li due to the sheer difference in their spiritual power.
Xie Yue silver haired with a streak of red at the ends, crimson eyes, and red butterfly like markings at the corners of his eyes. He had the aura of a cold and aloof pretty boy.
Yan a red haired, over muscled brute with a permanently fierce look in his eyes. But when he turned to look at Hu Liena, his expression softened into a foolishly devoted one. Ranks behind Feng Xiaotian in likability, Han Li mentally noted.
A short distance away, the so called "Golden Generation" trio was also studying him.
Seeing the three girls standing beside Han Li, Hu Liena's eyes flashed with disdain. So young, yet already so indulgent. He's useless.
She didn't even bother to hide her contempt, and Han Li naturally noticed. In response, he merely nodded slightly and smiled at her, which only intensified the hostility in Yan's eyes.
Han Li shook his head. Good. Since they were the ones to show hostility first, I'll have no reservations when the fight begins.
Xie Yue, on the other hand, remained neutral. He even exchanged a polite nod with Han Li. Unfortunately, his sister had already soured things, and by association, he was included in Han Li's mental target list though Han Li decided he'd go a little easier on him.
As Han Li was still mentally categorizing his opponents, two powerful figures finally arrived.
Perhaps intentionally, they each approached from opposite directions one from the east, exuding a holy platinum aura, while the other from the west, shrouded in regal purple light.
Under the gaze of the entire audience, the two figures landed on the high platform at the front of the arena.
Not once did they look at each other.
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