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Chapter 6: Provocation
Chapter 6: Provocation (Please Follow)
According to martial arts theory, cultivators begin with foundational training from childhood—starting with stance work, progressing to fist techniques, and finally mastering weaponry. All basic skills must be thoroughly learned.
When students enter their senior year, the focus shifts primarily to fist techniques. Only after achieving mastery of the Five Animal Forms, which dramatically improves muscular control, can one begin weapon training for maximum efficiency.
"Currently in Class 3, only five have mastered the Five Animal Forms: Yu Jing, Zhu Yuqi, Jiang Tao, Kang Feiyue, and Du Lin."
"Now it seems young Lin Qi is close to breaking through too."
Wu Kang mused while watching Lin Qi, feeling increasing regret. The boy's poverty-stricken background was unfortunate—his talent was decent but not reaching Jiang Tao's top-three-class level. Unlike others who could afford resources to boost their vital energy, Lin Qi's prospects remained limited.
Students stuck in this middle ground were common—Wu Kang sighed, knowing there was little he could do.
...
Near the end of class, most students had finished training. Lin Qi filled a two-liter jug from the water dispenser, gulping down the entire contents.
"Glug glug～"
After wiping sweat from his face, he muttered, "Martial arts sure drain fluids, but at least the water's free. Worth it."
As thirst parched his throat post-training, he appreciated the free water supply—otherwise daily expenses would be enormous.
"The school's forming an Elite Class soon", Wu Kang suddenly announced, drawing everyone's attention. "Many in our class want to join."
Standing among the students, he flashed his white teeth while continuing, "I've been at Second High School eight years—I know the Elite Class selection criteria well."
"The National College Entrance Exam prioritizes three aspects: Vital Energy Stat, martial arts proficiency, and academics—with Vital Energy Stat carrying the most weight."
"To qualify, you need mastery of fist techniques—equivalent to First Dan's late stage. Historically, applicants needed at least 6.0 Vital Energy Stat."
Murmurs erupted immediately.
"Five Animal Forms mastery and 6.0 Vital Energy? That's insane!"
"I ranked 13th last semester with only 5.4 Vital Energy. How do I gain 0.6 in a week?" someone wailed.
"Didn't only four classmates exceed 6.0 last semester?"
"Definitely too high."
"I should've studied harder during summer break!" multiple voices regretted.
"Bro, with your 8.0+ Vital Energy, Elite Class is guaranteed", a muscular student with a war blade boasted, lifting his chin smugly.
Lin Qi frowned. 6.0 Vital Energy Stat? Without awakening his Erlang Deity Template to enhance talent, his previous 5.3 wouldn't reach the threshold in a week. Even his current 5.6 still needed 0.4 more.
But with days remaining, there was still hope.
...
In class, hunger gnawed at Lin Qi's mind despite his hearty breakfast.
"Morning meal digested already?" He recalled his status panel notification:
【Your stomach function has strengthened, digestion capacity dramatically improved...】
Opening the prompt, he absorbed new information—his body's fusion talent had enhanced gastric function, allowing near-complete nutrient absorption. Weak cultivators might absorb 50-60%, but Lin Qi's top-tier digestion now extracted over 90% nutrients from food and resources.
"Jiang Tao, got any Physical Energy Capsules?" he whispered, nudging his friend.
Jiang Tao hesitated before pulling a silver pill sheet from his bag, squeezing out two red capsules.
Lin Qi teased, "Must you be so stingy? One extra won't kill you."
Jiang Tao retorted, "Learned from you, remember?"—recalling how Lin Qi had taught him frugality after his parents' death, only for Jiang Tao to eventually surpass his mentor in penny-pinching.
Swallowing two capsules with water, Lin Qi felt warmth spread through his stomach as hunger eased.
...
During the final period, homeroom teacher Yan Hong announced, "A few minutes left—submit application forms now."
The classroom buzzed as several students stood to hand in forms.
"Let's go", Jiang Tao said, patting Lin Qi's shoulder. They stood together, only to meet Yang Lei—a muscular student with a spiked haircut.
Spotting Lin Qi, Yang Lei smirked, "Well, 'Fundamental Master,' here to pad numbers?"
Jiang Tao's face darkened. Lin Qi simply frowned as classmates watched with amusement.
"Yang Lei, you're barely top 50—you might not make it either!" Jiang Tao shot back.
Yang Lei chuckled nervously, feigning friendliness, "Just kidding, Bro Qi! I apologize." He turned away dramatically.
Behind them, whispers spread:
"Yang's right—Lin Qi was 101st last semester. Calling him a number-padder makes sense."
"Can't handle a joke?"
Lin Qi remained expressionless, submitting his form with Jiang Tao.
"Class dismissed!"
As students headed to the cafeteria, Jiang Tao comforted him, "Ignore Yang—he's all bark, no bite."
Lin Qi nodded, "He preys on the weak. If I were stronger, he'd never dare."
"But I believe in your talent", Jiang Tao insisted. "Your Tiger Form Fist is nearly perfected. Just need to boost Vital Energy."
Lin Qi sighed, "Vital Energy requires resources, not just effort."
They entered the cafeteria—a massive two-story red building beside the playground. White steam billowed as delicious aromas greeted the orderly lines of students.
After paying 15 credits, Lin Qi balanced a towering tray of food. Jiang Tao's pile rivaled his.
"Quick Vital Energy gains won't happen eating first-floor food", Jiang Tao noted, watching students ascend. "Second floor uses Primordial Energy-infused ingredients. First floor's just regular meals for commoners and broke guys like us."
...
(End of Chapter)
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