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Chapter 230: A Dual Dose. (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Lin TianAo nodded and said: "That is definitely the choice of all the other teams, that is to ensure that we maintain sufficient strength to beat all the other Empires' teams to get into the top eight."

"After all, these seeded teams are extremely powerful. Even if we really had the power to defeat them, it would likely come at a severe costs, how could we possibly beat the other teams to enter the top eight then? Let alone the top four."

Zhou Weiqing nodded his head. However, in his mind, a seed of an idea grew. Perhaps if the circumstance permitted it, it might not be necessary to wait until the top eight to fight with the seeded team.

"The tournament rules are as such, but what about the actual fighting? Is it single combat or team based?" As Zhou Weiqing pondered on the matter, he asked Lin TianAo for further details.

Lin TianAo said: "The preliminary heats are four matches of single combat, and one two vs two match. For the finals, it is elimination style. That is to say, each team will send five members out, taking turns to fight in single combat. The victor stays, and the loser is eliminated, until one side has all five eliminated. As for the top four onwards, I am not sure what the style is."

"For the four single combat matches in the preliminary heats, no one is allowed to represent their team twice. However, in the two vs two match, members who have represented in the single combat matches may fight once more."

The Heavenly Jewel Tournament rules and styles were rather simple, and with Lin TianAo's explanation, the team quickly understood it. This was the main reason why Lin TianAo had agreed to Zhou Weiqing's suggestion to carry on. At the preliminary heats, it was actually possible to fight with only four members, though that would be extremely tough. Especially so for the members who would have to fight twice in the two vs two.

"During the preliminary heats, it is only necessary to win three out of the five fights. The first two single combat fights are carried out first, then the two vs two, followed by the last two single combat fights. As such, as long as the first three fights are all wins, it is possible to have the four members fight once each only."

Zhou Weiqing nodded and said: "I understand."

Lin TianAo continued: "Weiqing, the registration point is near the ZhongTian Empire Royal Palace's entrance, and you can already head there to register for our team now. I have already passed you the required documents yesterday, so you can head there directly and get our team plaque. We will remain here to heal up and cultivate, and we'll go to draw lots for the group stage the day before the tournament begins."

"Alright, you all have a good rest here, I'll head out now. Bing'er, come along with me."

"I want to go too!" Crow grabbed hold of Shangguan Bing'er's arm, an excited look on her face. Although she had a huge physique, she was after all still very young, and still had the disposition of a young girl. Now that she was at this totally new, mysterious place, she was extremely curious. Shangguan Bing'er was grabbed by her, and the two standing together just put their huge difference in size into perspective once again.

Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said: "Alright, let's go together then. Come on."

The ZhongTian City was indeed extremely large. Last night, they had entered the city when it was already dark, and the size had not struck them so hard. Although it was still early in the morning, when they exited their inn, the sheer hustle and bustle of the city hit them right in the face. The buildings along the streets were all tall, with most being three stories or more. The buildings were rather quaint and old fashioned in design, with various different statues and carvings around the walls and roofs, and they were clearly not new, with an ancient yet mysteriously artistic air to them. It was indeed a very different feel, and the arts and culture of the city was quite clearly much deeper than compared to the Fei Li City.

As they walked along on the street, Crow definitely drew a lot of attention; even Shangguan Bing'er's beauty was almost ignored due to that, as almost every passerby stared at Crow as they walked past.

Towards the strange gazes, Crow seemed oblivious, as she walked on coolly without any sense of embarrassment, even shouting out at times: "What are you staring at, haven't you seen a beautiful lady before?"

Zhou Weiqing's skin was thick himself, and naturally he didn't feel any sense of embarrassment either. Holding on to Shangguan Bing'er's soft little hand, he looked around at the various shops curiously. Many of the specialty local goods in the ZhongTian City were alien to him, and he had not even heard of them. Of course, what attracted him the most were those specialized food stores. The various smells caused his stomach to growl, sparking his appetite. However, he decided to ignore it and complete the registration first; after all, he couldn't leave his injured companions hungry in the inn while they enjoyed themselves. When they returned, they could buy some food back and let everyone enjoy together.

It was easy for them to find the Royal Palace, a quick question to a passerby got them the directions and before long they were there. Although the inner city was still large, but at least it was nothing compared to the entire outer city as well. Before long they were in front of the ZhongTian Royal Palace, right smack in the middle of the inner city.

"They are truly the top Empire! Such a magnificent palace!" Looking at the wide main plaza in front of the Royal Palace which was more than a square kilometre large, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but exclaim to himself. Right in the centre of the plaza, there was a thirty metre tall, large statue, which attracted their attentions as soon as they reached the plaza.

The statue was of a man, with long hair down to his shoulders, a wide and strong build, with a set of huge wings stretching out behind his back. The thing that attracted Zhou Weiqing's attention instantly was his hands, where there were twelve pearls carved around the wrist. Although they weren't coloured due to it being a statue, but the number alone said volume! It signified the 12 Changes of the Heavenly Jewels being completed, a God Tier powerhouse of the greatest level! Could it be that in this ZhongTian Empire, there was actually a twelve-Jeweled, God Tier Master?

The Plaza in front of the Royal Palace was not restricted in access, and they could see that there was a constant number of people walking towards the large statue and worshipping it. Looking at their devout faces, it was without question that the person depicted by the statue was of extremely high status in the ZhongTian Empire.

They quickly stopped a passerby to ask, and they soon found that the statue was of the Founding Emperor of the ZhongTian Empire, and his name was Shangguan Yulong. Not only did he found the ZhongTian Empire, he had also created the Heavenly Jewel Island and the Heaven's Expanse Palace, and he was indeed the true Dynasty Emperor of the ZhongTian Empire. The entire statue was carved from Diamond Rock, and would stand strong nigh forever, and since the time it had been erected, it had stood there weathering the elements for over two thousand years, overlooking this ZhongTian City.

"Bing'er, the Royal Family of the ZhongTian Empire has the same family name as you!" Zhou Weiqing smiled at her.

Shangguan Bing'er furrowed her brow slightly, before saying: "Mother has never been willing to talk to me about Father. When I was in school, I asked my teacher once, and he said that Shangguan is definitely a family name from the ZhongTian Empire. It is highly likely that my father is really from the ZhongTian Empire. When I was very young, before I can even remember anything, mother had already taken me along and left home, so I have never seen father before."

Zhou Weiqing held her gently in his arms, and said softly: "Bing'er, don't feel sad. When there is time, I'll accompany you around the ZhongTian Empire to search for your father. You're so beautiful; I'm sure looking for your father will not be difficult."

"En…"

Zhou Weiqing then turned to Crow, who was staring fixedly at the statue, saying: "Come on Crow, let's go. We need to register our team."

Crow sighed appreciatively and said: "That statue is certainly so robust and well built… if only the heavens will gift our Gold Crow Tribe some robust men…"

"Come on, let's go. I'm sure the heavens will gift them to you. If the heavens do not do so, when we return, I'll help you look!" On hearing Crow's desire for men, Zhou Weiqing did not feel that it was funny at all. He could totally understand the feeling, the desire from Crow, the worry in her heart about the survival of her tribe… something he could truly identify with!

The registration point for the Heavenly Jewel Tournament was right near the entrance of the Palace, and the ZhongTian Empire had indeed placed much importance on the tournament, actually building a new building specially for the registration, with a large sign at the top with the words Heavenly Jewel Tournament engraved in large gold words.

The registration process went very smoothly, as Zhou Weiqing led the two girls into the building. With the invitation and identity documents from the Fei Li Empire that Lin TianAo had passed to him, he quickly registered for their team and got their team plaque. He was also informed to report back at the Plaza for the drawing of lots three days later. At the same time, he also received the details and keys to the living arrangements that the ZhongTian Empire had arranged for them. Of course, Zhou Weiqing did not think of moving their team over; after all the rest of the teams would likely be there, and it was not an opportune time for them to get into any possible conflicts.

Just as the three of them completed their registration and were heading out, they ran into a group of people who were just heading in.

The group consisted of over a dozen people, and they were clearly here to register as well. The strangest thing was that the leader of the team was actually someone that both Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er recognized!

A few years back, not long after Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er had met, after his Heavenly Jewels had Awakened, they had met with an assassination attempt on Shangguan Bing'er. The leader of that assassination attempt had been Bai Jiu, the ninth prince of the Kalise Empire. At this moment, this same person was right in front of them.

As soon as both sides met, Bai Jiu started. Towards Zhou Weiqing, he did not have a strong impression, but he naturally easily recognized Shangguan Bing'er. After all, she was not only his enemy Empire's youngest genius and only Heavenly Jewel Master of their generation, she was also a beauty of the highest order, and he had a strong impression of her. Besides, she had also been the target of his assassination previously.

"It's you?!" Bai Jiu stared at Shangguan Bing'er scorchingly, then lifted his head to look at the words 'Heavenly Jewel Tournament'. "What a joke, your Heavenly Bow Empire can actually enter the Heavenly Jewel Tournament?"

Standing beside Shangguan Bing'er, Crow said uncertainly: "We are representing the Fei Li Empire."

Bai Jiu's handsome face immediately showed a hint of disdain. "I never thought that the youngest genius of the Heavenly Bow Empire, their only Heavenly Jewel Master, Miss Shangguan Bing'er, would actually abandon your country and defect to the Fei Li Empire! Haha, looks like our Kalise Empire will soon be able to take over the Heavenly Bow Empire! Zhou Shui Niu has truly no successor!"

Zhou Weiqing raised his brow and asked: "Are you saying that you are representing the Kalise Empire to join the tournament?"

His attention was not on Bai Jiu; after all, according to his memory, Bai Jiu was only a Physical Jewel Master, and not a Heavenly Jewel Master. With his current cultivation level and power, Bai Jiu was definitely not a threat to him. The ones he was taking note off were his companions. They were all about thirty years of age or younger, each with a stable, profound aura and cold expressions. Although they looked rather ordinary on the surface, Zhou Weiqing could sense some danger from them.

Chapter 231: A Dual Dose. (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Although the group of people were following Bai Jiu, they seemed to ignore Zhou Weiqing's trio, as if in their hearts, they were emotionless. This was also the thing that sparked Zhou Weiqing's vigilance the most.

Bai Jiu lifted his head and said proudly: "Of course, how can your Heavenly Bow Empire compare with our Kalise Empire?! These few behind me are all Heavenly Jewel Masters, does your Heavenly Bow Empire have that many?"

Shangguan Bing'er said coldly: "I did not betray my Empire, not now, not ever. Your Kalise Empire has the power to join the Heavenly Jewel Tournament? Hah, from what I see, it's just the second team of the Bai Da Empire right."

"So what" A strong hatred flashed in Bai Jiu's eyes. That time, he had peed in his pants, and that would always be in his mind! Towards Shangguan Bing'er, though she was such a beauty, he was only full of hate, and not any hint of tender, protective feelings. "Even if we are the Bai Da Empire's second team, at least that shows the Bai Da Empire is supporting us. What about you? Even if you have entered the Fei Li Empire, with your cultivation level, you're likely just a mere reserve team member. At least I'm the leader of the Kalise Empire team, even if I can't enter the battlefield, it's still better than you being controlled by others."

Shangguan Bing'er wanted to continue arguing, but was held back by Zhou Weiqing. "Bing'er, let's go." After saying that, he led Shangguan Bing'er and Crow out.

As they passed by Bai Jiu, Zhou Weiqing's eyes narrowed as he said softly: "I hope we'll have good luck when drawing lots, and be placed in the same group with your Kalise Empire Team." Although he really wanted to kill this fellow in front of him, he knew that this was not the right time; after all, they will still at the Heavenly Jewel Tournament registration spot.

"You…" Bai Jiu was about to retort, but Zhou Weiqing's trio had already walked out. His loyal follower, Luo Xiaoye, quickly said: "Your Highness, do not lower yourself to argue with them, it will affect our grand plan."

Bai Jiu looked at his loyal follower, and his expression calmed down. Stroking him on the face, he said gently: "Alright, I'll let them off for now. Hmph. It should be I who hopes to meet them in the tournament."

Luo Xiaoye flushed a little, looking at Bai Jiu with a slightly dazed expression.

Once again stepping into the Plaza, Zhou Weiqing let loose a breath he didn't even know he had been holding. Shangguan Bing'er could clearly feel that his muscles had been tensed tightly.

Zhou Weiqing looked up in the sky and muttered to himself: "Next round, for the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, I will definitely lead our Heavenly Bow Empire into this stage. At that time, we will only have one goal, that is, the champion."

That was Zhou Weiqing's last word before they reached the inn. He did not even buy the snacks and foods as he had planned earlier, instead rushing back to the inn, dashing back into his room and cultivating. Shangguan Bing'er did not try comforting him; she knew that her man's fighting spirit had been sparked. Not because of that Ninth Prince, but because of how weak their Heavenly Bow Empire was.

…

Three days passed quickly, as if in a blink of an eye, and soon it was time for the teams to draw lots for their groups.

It was still early in the morning, but the ZhongTian City was already bustling with activity. From the night before, the entrance into the inner city was being controlled as they started to limit the inflow of visitors. The Heavenly Jewel Tournament was open to the public to watch, but there were just too many residents in the outer city. If all of them were to attempt to enter the inner city, there would just be insufficient space. Although the actual fight would only start tomorrow, the lot drawing ceremony still attracted quite a number of audiences; after all, many citizens wanted to know how the groups went – many were betting the Heavenly Jewel Tournament.

The ZhongTian Royal Palace Plaza was now cordoned off, and the area from the Royal Palace to the huge statue now looked extremely different.

In front of the palace, a twenty metre tall platform had been erected, that would be used to hold the audience, and it could hold several hundred people at once – clearly only the upper echelons of the ZhongTian Empire and other important guests would be able to ascend that platform.

In front of the VIP platform, a 50 metre long and wide square platform was also complete, about 5 metres tall, right in perfect vision from the VIP platform. Without question, that would be the platform where the fights would be actually held.

The entire tournament platform was created using a huge diamond rock, the tough material aimed at preventing the powerful Heavenly Jewel Masters from destroying the platform with their attacks.

Besides that, around the tournament platform, besides the main VIP platform, the other three sides were also surrounded by freshly built houses, they were clearly for the various battle teams to rest and watch from.

There were exactly twenty four Empires who registered teams for this year's Heavenly Jewel Tournament; divided into four groups, it was six teams per group. As such, there were also twenty four houses surrounding the platform. Amongst them, facing the VIP platform and on the opposite end of the tournament platform were the four largest houses. Without question, the four were for the seeded teams. Class and rank was important no matter where one was.

As the sun rose higher, the various battle teams had their plaques checked as they entered the area. In front of each rest house, there was the team's Empire's names on the door, and they entered their respective house.

For the Fei Li Battle Team, only Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er came. For the other teams, it was about the same, with only 1 to 2 members here. The looks and dispositions of Heavenly Jewel Masters might sometimes reveal what they were good at; since the actual competition had not started, they naturally did not want to reveal themselves too early.

During the previous tournament, the Fei Li Battle Team had a good result of fifth position. As such, their rest house was just to the left of the four seeded teams, and was one of the larger houses.

As Zhou Weiqing walked towards their rest house, he paused at the door, looking curiously towards the four seeded teams' houses. He realised that none of them were occupied; the four seeded teams had not even bothered sending anyone to draw lots!

Such arrogance! In their minds, no matter what group they were in, they had already secured the first position. As such, they did not even bother coming to understand which other teams would be in their groups. Of course, their arrogance also stemmed from their power; although Zhou Weiqing knew that in his mind, but that caused the notion in his mind, the refusal to lose, to grow even stronger!

Representing the Kalise Empire to draw lots was Bai Jiu and his little Follower. As they had not joined the previous tournament, their position was at the most external end.

Alas, Zhou Weiqing's wish did not come true, and he did not manage to get into the same group as the Kalise Empire. However, it was indeed a small world; when Zhou Weiqing examined his 'Group Three' lot, he realised that their Fei Li Battle Team was in the exact same group as the Bai Dai Empire! Indeed, enemies often cross path!

For their Group Three, the seeded team was from the large Empire at the South of the Boundless Mainland, the Dan Dun Empire, which had the Blood Red Hell of the Five Great Saint Lands supporting it. The Dan Dun Empire was about as large as the Fei Li Empire, but with the Blood Red Hell supporting it, their overall power was much stronger than the Fei Li Empire.

Besides the Dan Dun Battle Team, Fei Li Battle Team and Bai Da Battle Team, the other three teams in their group were from the Mi'Ou Empire, TieCheng Empire and the KaXi Empire.

These three Empires were relatively small Empires from the East side of the Mainlands. Although they were relatively small, they were much more powerful than Heavenly Bow Empire or the Kalise Empire.

In the East of the Boundless Mainland, there were two large powerhouse Empire, the Amber Empire and the Gerry Connaught Empire. These two large Empires were extremely powerful, especially the Amber Empire, who had the support of the Top Valley of the East, the Passion Valley. Under these two Empires' pressure, the surrounding smaller ones had to pay tribute to them. However, just like in the west, where the Bai Da Empire and the Fei Li Empire were enemies, the Amber Empire and the Gerry Connaught Empire were not on good terms. Luckily, they were further apart, on the southeast and northeast portions, with seventeen smaller empires separating them; thus they did not actually fight as much.

Furthermore, these smaller empires were quite close to the central ZhongTian Empire, which resulted in these two large Empires not daring to easily invade them, causing a rather uneasy peace.

For the seven strongest Empires in the Mainland, four of them were supported by the Great Saint Lands; the WanShou Empire, ZhongTian Empire, Dan Dun Empire and Amber Empire. They were also the four seeded teams. As for the rest of the three powerhouse Empires, the Bai Da Empire and Fei Li Empire had actually been drawn into the same group. WIthout question, this Group Three was now considered the Group of Death, with the toughest fight. Furthermore, these two Empires were old enemies! Of course, no one else knew that this current Fei Li Battle Team was extremely incomplete, with Zhou Weiqing, a mere three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master as their mainstay.

Next up, they had to draw lots on their first opponents. This time, Zhou Weiqing's luck was slightly better, managing to draw one of the weaker teams in the group, the Mi'Ou Battle Team.

Seeing that result, he breathed out a small sigh of relief. If they had to face the Bai Da Empire in the first round, with Lin TianAo and the rest unable to fight, he did not have the confidence to get past them. Yet, this was a very important fight for them in order to get into the top eight. As for the Bai Da Empire, they actually drew the seeded team of the Dan Dun Empire.

The entire lot drawing process took about two hours, and at the end of it, just as Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er were heading out, all of a sudden her body shuddered and she stopped in her tracks. Her eyes glazed and focused on a direction, as if seeing something that had given her a huge shock.

Chapter 232: Tricks are Useless (1)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

When Shangguan Bing'er stopped suddenly and stared into the distance, Zhou Weiqing started, following her gaze. He saw, right at the end, Bai Jiu and his follower were talking with a black clad girl. Looking at their expressions, they seemed very respectful towards her.

"She is the girl who attacked us last time." Shangguan Bing'er said softly.

"En?" Zhou Weiqing was shocked in his heart as well. He had not experienced the previous fight himself, but he had heard the other team members' descriptions. Even though during that final fight with her, most of their members had been exhausted or wounded, it still had not changed the fact that she had personally taken down the entire Fei Li Battle Team by herself; she was definitely extremely powerful.

Furthermore, along with their descriptions, Zhou Weiqing had quickly realised that the black clad girl who called herself the Little Witch definitely had both the Darkness and Demonic Attributes. Furthermore, she could use some plants to support her, that likely signified the Life Attribute. This allowed him to think of another place – the Heavenly Demon Sect.

The Heavenly Jewel Masters with the Demonic Attribute were hunted throughout the world, and only the Heavenly Demon Sect could possibly have such a powerful Demonic Attribute Heavenly Jewel Master. Furthermore, seeing as she was so young, it was likely she was someone important in the Sect.

At this moment, for Little Witch to actually be together with Bai Jiu and Luo Xiaoye, that was definitely bad news for Zhou Weiqing. He did not fear the Kalise Empire, even if they had the support of the Bai Da Empire, they were still only the second team of the Bai Da Empire. However, if the Heavenly Demon Sect was joining in, then it would be a totally different matter. After all, Zhou Weiqing was clear on how powerful the Heavenly Demon Sect was; he had almost died at the hands of Ming Wu.

Perhaps sensing Zhou Weiqing's gaze on her, Little Witch lifted her head and looked towards them. As their gazes met, Zhou Weiqing saw the spirit and vivacious flexible intelligence in her eyes, yet with a terrifying depth; while Little Witch saw the aggressive, almost invasive nature of his gaze. Next, Little Witch saw Shangguan Bing'er beside Zhou Weiqing, and a curious look appeared on her face. Naturally, she remembered the battle a few days back clearly, and yet Zhou Weiqing had not appeared during that battle.

Bai Jiu and Luo Xiaoye also followed her gaze to see Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er. On seeing it was them, Bai Jiu quickly said something to Little Witch softly, clearly explaining their origins.

Little Witch inclined her head towards Zhou Weiqing, revealing a cute smile as she winked at him. At that moment, Fat Cat, who had been sleeping in Zhou Weiqing's arms, woke up suddenly, poking her head out, her deep purple eyes looking towards Little Witch.

Seeing Fat Cat in Zhou Weiqing's bosom, Little Witch's body shuddered slightly, a look of utter shock flashing in her eyes momentarily. Due to her shock, she lost composure for a second, but quickly her expression frosted over as her mouth curled in an amused, pondering look before she turned and left.

Bai Jiu gave them an arrogant, disdainful look before chasing after Little Witch.

Watching them leave, Zhou Weiqing held Shangguan Bing'er's hand and said a little worriedly: "It looks like we might be in some trouble. If the Little Witch is representing the Heavenly Demon Sect, and they are really supporting the Kalise Empire, then our Heavenly Bow Empire might truly be in trouble soon."

Shangguan Bing'er furrowed her brow and said: "Should we report them? After all, the entire world is hunting these Evil Heavenly Jewel Masters; as long as we report them, perhaps they will be disqualified from the Heavenly Jewel Tournament."

Zhou Weiqing shook his head and said: "No. They have been hunted for so long, yet their Sect has stayed around for all this time. They definitely have some methods to hide their powers. Even if we report them, it will be difficult to prove anything. On the other hand, that will totally anger the Heavenly Demon Sect; if they haven't thrown their support behind Kalise Empire, that might push them to do so. Not only will we be in trouble, our Empire will be in even greater danger. Do not worry so much, let's use this Heavenly Jewel Tournament to observe how much support the Heavenly Demon Sect is throwing behind the Kalise Empire. To be honest, the Kalise Empire is way too small for the Heavenly Demon Sect… even if they wanted to support an empire, it should be a large empire like Fei Li or Bai Da. My guess is that the Kalise Empire might just be their puppet, while their true target is to get to the top four and enter the Heavenly Jewel Island. If my guess is right, then this just proves that the Heavenly Jewel Island has many good things. What we have to do now is to take things slowly, step by step, beating all our opponents while observing the situation.

Hearing Zhou Weiqing's words, a gentle smile appeared on Shangguan Bing'er's beautiful face, as she said softly: "My Little Fatty has truly grown up."

Zhou Weiqing grinned and leaned his head to her ear, saying: "Heh heh, that's right, I have grown up… does that mean you will no longer restrict me from being intimate? Don't worry, I will be very careful, I will not let you have a small Little Fatty, how about that?"

Shangguan Bing'er giggled as she said: "You… a leopard truly cannot change its spots! You've only acted honest for two days, and you're back to your roguish ways. The Heavenly Jewel Tournament is so important, yet your mind is still so full of dirty thoughts!"

Zhou Weiqing said smugly: "How am I dirty? I am being very serious here! Anyway, does that mean that… after the Heavenly Jewel Tournament, we can…"

Shangguan Bing'er flushed a deep red: "Let's go back quickly, everyone is waiting anxiously for us."

When they returned to the inn, Zhou Weiqing explained the situation of their group to the rest of the team. To his surprise, when they heard that they had been allocated to the same group as the Bai Da Empire, none of the team members were sad about it, instead all revealing excited expressions.

"Awesome! Weiqing, your luck is just too good!��� Little Four said with a look of praise on his face. "I have always wanted to teach those Bai Da Bastards a lesson. Weiqing, you have to take care of those teams in front, when we meet the Bai Da Battle Team, we will definitely destroy them! Let me tell you, if we manage to destroy the Bai Da Battle Team in the preliminary stage, even if we do not reach the top four, we will still be heroes when we return home."

Drunken Bao rubbed his hands together gleefully: "I can't wait for that, I almost feel like my wounds are recovering faster. Weiqing, this lot drawing of yours is really great. This will not do. I'm going back to cultivate now, I must recover in time for the Bai Da Battle Team fight."

Xiao Yan was not as vocal as the other two, just saying softly: "I have already recovered almost to my seventy percent, even if I have to burn my life force again, I will be able to fight."

A cold light also flashed in Lin TianAo's eyes. "Bai Da Empire. Hmph. Bai Da Empire. Very good."

Zhou Weiqing stared at them with a stunned look on his face: "Why are you guys so excited when you hear it's them? So exaggerated?"

Drunken Bao said: "Weiqing, you are from the Heavenly Bow Empire. If we meet the Kalise Empire Battle Team, what would you be like?"

Without hesitation, Zhou Weiqing replied: "Of course, I'll beat them til their mothers' cannot recognize them!"

Drunken Bao grinned and said: "Heh, exactly! It is the same for us, we are mortal enemies with the Bai Da Empire, the hate between our countries is so deep and going way past into our history, it can be said to be almost an ethnic hatred. When we were fighting against the Wan Shou Empire, the Bai Da Empire has caused us so much trouble. I can safely say that all Fei Li Empire citizens hate the Bai Da Empire much more than the Wan Shou Empire."

Crow stood up abruptly, walking out. Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but ask: "Crow, where are you going?"

Crow said: "Sharpening my axes."

Ye Paopao said in a depressed tone: "Come on, all you bosses, you can't do that! I want to fight as well! Weiqing, why couldn't your luck extend a little, if only we could fight them in the first round."

Zhou Weiqing said exasperatedly: "Damn, it is sure easy to be the temporary leader, I do not even need to upkeep your morale. Look at all your excitement, I do not need to sa anything more, all of you, go and cultivate and train up. Bing'er, come on, let's go back to our rooms and do what we love doing. 1"

Shangguan Bing'er flushed red again, glaring at him and muttering as she turned and ran off.

Ever since the entire team had sustained such heavy injuries, they had been rather suppressed, almost depressed. However, now, after the results of the group draw, it had lifted their spirits and lit a fire beneath them. This was something that Zhou Weiqing had not expected.

…

A fresh new day.

The Heavenly Jewel Tournament was finally about to begin. With twenty four battle teams, each round alone was twelve fights, with each group having three fights, and they would all be held in a single day, and the next round would be held three days later.

As the temporary leader, when Zhou Weiqing led his team out of the inn, he was rather dismal. The reason was simple, he did not even have five main team members gathered; even counting himself there were only four of them.

After hearing that they had the Bai Da Battle Team in their group, the injured team members threw themselves even crazier into cultivation and recovering; they were certainly full of fighting spirit. According to their draw, they would meet the Bai Da Battle Team in the third round, as such most of them were trying to recover as much as possible in order to be battle ready by that time. As such, they did not even attend today's fight, going easy on the team today. After all, with just four people, they would be able to go through all five fights; of course, if they had to fight twice it would take a toll on them.

As compared to yesterday, the Plaza was even more crowded and lively than before. It was still extremely early in the morning, but the Plaza, and its surroundings, was already packed to the core. If not for the fact that the officials had arranged for a dedicated passageway for battle teams, they might even have had trouble entering the competition grounds.

Chapter 233: Tricks are Useless (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

As compared to yesterday at the grouping ceremony, the atmosphere at the Plaza was obviously full of fighting spirit and killing intent. Every battle team was there in strength, even the seeded teams, with the lowest numbers being eight and the highest up to more than ten. The only exception was naturally the Fei Li Battle Team and our dear Leader Zhou Weiqing, with their mere four.

When Zhou Weiqing led Shangguan Bing'er, Crow and Ye Paopao to the Fei Li Resting House, they immediately drew the attention of all the other battle teams, including the four seeded teams.

Even for the four seeded teams, all five main team members and three reserve members came, eight in total. In everyone's point of view, the Fei Li Battle Team was just too arrogant; having only four members come was tantamount to announcing to others that they were so confident in winning today that only four members were required.

Of course, the one with the ugliest expressions was undoubtedly their opponent for today, the Mi'Ou Empire's Battle Team, and they were currently glaring hard at the Fei Li Battle Team.

Alas, our dear Leader Zhou's skin was extremely thick, and no matter how everyone stared at them, he just had an expression of 'It is not my problem', sitting down openly in the Resting House.

The side of the Resting House facing the main stage was not covered, and seeing him sit there so casually, everyone's impression of the Fei Li Battle Team's arrogance rose once more.

It wasn't long before all the teams were gathered. From the distance, they could also see that the VIP stage was also full of people. Zhou Weiqing glanced towards it before looking away quickly. It wasn't that great to have such a high sensitivity in this case, just that single glance had given him a huge scare, as cold sweat covered his entire back. He couldn't tell what power levels most of the people in the VIP stage were, but he was sure that there were at leasts more than twenty who were more powerful than Ming Wu!

What sort of concept was that? That was to say, there were more than twenty nine-Jeweled Zong Stage Masters or greater on that stage alone! Each of them were powerhouses that could shake the world.

At this moment, a middle aged man of around forty stood up from the VIP stage, heading to the front. He was dressed in a yellow dragon robe, with a gold crown on his head, with several beautiful gemstones mounted on it. His waist was also studded with eighteen snow-white jades. He was not very handsome, giving off a stable, simple aura, but there was a lustrous gleam in his eyes that could not be hidden, and it was hard to determine how old he truly was. He was also one of the people which Zhou Weiqing had sensed as having a stronger power level than Ming Wu.

"Hello, all you youths from twenty four different Empires, it is good to meet you. I am the Emperor of the ZhongTian Empire, Shangguan TianXin. I would like to welcome all of you to our ZhongTian Empire, to join the great Heavenly Jewel Tournament held every three years." His voice was soft and gentle, yet like mercury seeping into the ground, pervasive; and everyone could hear him clearly.

The competitors in the houses quickly walked out, bowing towards the VIP stage in greeting "Greetings Your Majesty." Amongst them, the eight members of the ZhongTian Battle Team kneeled down respectfully.

The several hundred thousand citizens who were surrounding the plaza also knelt down at the same time, shouting out loudly: "Long live, Long live, Long live Your Majesty!"

Several hundred thousand people shouting at once was definitely a stunning experience, as the huge sound waves reverberated around the air, it was likely that they could even be heard from the Heavenly Jewel Island several thousand metres above! This was the prestige and might of the Emperor; even though Shangguan Tianxin did not reveal any majestic aura, in front of his many citizens, he quickly became the focus of the entire area.

Zhou Weiqing also bowed slightly, but was surprised to see that Shangguan Bing'er, who was beside him, seemed rather dazed. "Bing'er, what's wrong?"

Shangguan Bing'er shook her head softly, saying: "Nothing, I just had a sudden feeling like his voice was so soothing and comfortable."

By now, Shangguan TianXin spoke once more. "The Heavenly Jewel Tournament rules are as they have always been. Today is the first round, and I hope that all you promising youths can display your full potential, and get good results."

"The battle teams entering the top four will be able to enter the Heavenly Jewel Island to attend the finals. At the same time, they will also get tremendous prizes there. This is your stage! That's all I have to say. Shangguan Longyin, where are you?"

"Here I am" An old man stepped forward from the side, bowing respectfully to Shangguan Tianxin.

Shangguan Tianxin said: "Longyin, you will be the overall judge of this year's Heavenly Jewel Tournament, and you will supervise it, with your Skill Storing Palace staff as judges."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Shangguan Tianxin's gaze swept across the members of the twenty four teams, and his own citizens, before saying solemnly: "Let the games begin!" 1

"Long live, Long live, Long live Your Majesty!"

Another huge outcry arose as Shangguan Tianxin returned to his seat in the center of the VIP stage, and Shangguan Longyin replaced him at the previous position in front.

As compared to Shangguan Tianxin's gentle appearance, Shangguan Longyin looked to be imposing and strict, his face impassive and a fierce light in his eyes, as if he were a sheathed sword.

Ye Paopao said softly: "I've heard of this man, he is the ZhongTian Empire Skill Storing Palace Master, and is one of the most important persons in the entire ZhongTian Empire. Furthermore, it is rumoured that the upper echelons of the Heaven's Expanse Palace is also made up of the members of the Royal Family. As such, although the ZhongTian Empire is so huge, the Shangguan Family's status has never been shaken, and the seat of Emperor has always been theirs."

'ZhongTian Empire Skill Storing Palace Master', the rank alone gave Zhou Weiqing chills. Even the Fei Li Empire's Skill Storing Palace Master was a Heavenly King ranked powerhouse, and this Master in front of him was definitely even more powerful. Yet, he wasn't even the most powerful person in the ZhongTian Empire, with the Heaven's Expanse Palace above him! The world is indeed huge, and his eyes had indeed been opened.

Shangguan Longyin's imposing gaze swept past the audience, and they actually instantly quietened down. Impressive, as there were more than a few hundred thousand people! If one were to examine their faces closely, they would be able to see the fanatic light in the citizens' eyes.

"First round, Group 1 Fight 1, ZhongTian Battle Team versus TianFeng Battle Team. Both sides, please send out your first participant. Skill Storing Palace Judge, ascend the stage."

Under the anticipating looks of the audience, the first to ascend the stage was a middle aged man wearing a cream coloured robe – the Judge. On his robes were silver thread embroidery decorating it, and right in the middle of the chest area, the silver thread formed a large 'Zhong' word.

The ZhongTian Battle Team was one House away from Zhou Weiqing's, and in a flash of white light, a huge youth leapt up the stage. The ZhongTian Battle Team's uniforms were pure white, with embroidery looking similar to the judge's robes, though their uniforms weren't robes, but tight fitting clothes suited for fighting, while the threads were gold, but similarly forming the 'Zhong' word in the center of the chest area.

As soon as the ZhongTian Battle Team member ascended the stage, the TianFeng Battle Team shouted out: "We admit defeat."

The judge turned towards them and asked: "Do all of you admit defeat?"

"Yes."

On hearing that, the ZhongTian Battle Team member did not seem surprised, remaining expressionless, as if he had already expected that this would happen. After bowing towards the judge, he walked back down, returning to his Team House.

According to the tournament fixtures, the first four fights would be the four seeded teams' fights, followed by the other.

Facing a seeded team in the preliminary heats and admitting defeat instantly was not something that was shameful, but rather an intelligent choice. After all, defeating the seeded teams was extremely difficult, or maybe even impossible. Even if there was a chance of success, they would not do so during the preliminary heats. Avoiding a tough fight that would take too much of a toll, saving strength to take care of the others in the preliminary group in order to take the second position; this was definitely the stance that most, if not all, of the other teams.

As expected, in the next three fights, the other three seeded teams also won without a fight, easily getting their first victory.

Next up was the second fight of each group; this was finally the start of the actual fights!

Zhou Weiqing sat in the rest house, watching closely. Watching the two teams of Group 1 fighting, he was rather surprised in his heart. Both of these battle teams were from small empires, but their power was not to be underestimated. Out of the five who actually fought, both sides were all with 2 3-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Masters, and 3 4-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Masters. For youths of less than thirty, this was already considered extremely powerful. Furthermore, their combat skills and fighting styles were all pretty good, as they fought hard on the stage, Heavenly Energy flying all about. It was pretty impressive, after all, these two teams were merely relatively 'bottom-feeder teams' in terms of ranking amongst the twenty four.

Finally, the fight ended with one side barely winning with a 3-2 score.

When it came to the second group's second fight, Zhou Weiqing was unable to watch any further; mainly because the next round was their group three's turn to fight .

"Crow, you take the first round. Paopao, the second round. For the third round, 2 v 2, Crow and I will take it." As the temporary leader, Zhou Weiqing quickly assigned their roles.

Although she was not assigned to fight, Shangguan Bing'er did not complain, just sitting silently beside Zhou Weiqing. Towards her man, she had a total unrelenting confidence and support towards him.

The second round ended rather quickly, as one of the teams was from a rather large empire, similar in strength to the Fei Li Empire, the Gerry Connaught Battle Team. They displayed their sheer power and superiority here, winning easily by just sending 4 members, 2 4-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Masters and 2 5-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Masters.

Whenever every fight ended, the judge on the stage would be changed. At this point, a new judge stepped up onto the stage and shouted out: "Third Group, Second Fight. Fei Li Battle Team versus the Mi'Ou Battle Team, both sides, please send your first participant onto the stage."

Crow had been waiting for the fight for so long, and she quickly stepped up towards the stage. When she reached it, she did not even bother using the stairs, stamping hard on the ground with her right foot, flying up and landing straight on the tournament stage.

Zhou Weiqing quickly clapped his hands to his ears, and in the next instant, a huge explosion rang out, shocking everyone.

Chapter 234: Tricks are Useless (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Indeed, it was a huge explosion, and that was the sound when Crow landed on the stage. With her 600 jin weight and her tough bones and skin, jumping from such a height onto the stage, how could it not cause a powerful commotion. Others usually jumped up swiftly and quietly, yet she decided to do the reverse. Of course, there was no doubt that it had a stunning effect. In that instant, she drew the attention of everyone, including the four seeded teams and the VIP guests.

The Fei Li Battle Team uniforms were dark green, also with gold thread embroidery. The difference from the ZhongTian's uniform was that the embroidery was mostly on the left part of the chest, forming the symbol of the Fei Li Empire, the Cross Sword.

At that point, even the judge on the stage was startled by Crow's jump, and looking at the slight crack in the Diamond / Titanium floor, his mouth twitched a little.

At the same time, the Mi'Ou Battle Team Member also ascended the stage.

He was a tall, well built youth. Originally, he had moved out at the same time as Crow, but when Crow landed on the Crow, he had been startled and lost his balance. Looking at this girl in front of him who was even larger and more muscled, this youthful member from the Mi'Ou Empire couldn't help but have a strange expression on his face, as a sense of wariness and danger crept up on him.

Zhou Weiqing continued sitting relaxedly in the Rest House, his expression content and pleased, looking every bit like a genius strategist who had planned everything, as if everything was in his grasp. There was a reason why he had used this lineup; no matter which team, everyone attached an extremely high value on the first fight. After all, a good start would also be a good omen, giving a boost to morale, and generally advantageous to the team. As such, the first member was usually one of the stronger team members. That was also the reason why Zhou Weiqing had assigned Crow to be the first; he was extremely confident in her abilities, no matter in terms of physique, strength or combat skills, she would definitely be able to stun any opponents.

Normally, the second member to be sent out would likely be slightly weaker than the first; after all there were five fights in total. By sending Ye Paopao as the second member, Zhou Weiqing estimated that there would be at least a seventy percent chance of winning. Added on to the fact that he was extremely confident of winning the third fight with himself and Crow, even if Ye Paopao lost the second fight, he would personally take the fourth fight to seal the deal.

On the stage, the judge said solemnly: "Both sides, introduce yourselves."

Crow said casually: "Fei Li Battle Team, Crow."

The opposing team member said solemnly: "Mi'Ou Battle Team, Wu Zhengyang."

The judge continued: "The rules are very simple, both of you can attack as you please, there are no restrictions on weapons. Beastmasters are not allowed to use Consolidated Equipment and Stored Skills. As long as anyone admits defeat, no one is allowed to continue attacking. Understood?"

Both sides nodded in agreement, and the judge quickly gave the start signal, and the first fight of the Fei Li Battle Team had finally began.

The Mi'Ou Battle Team Member Wu Zhengyang shouted out loud, instantly releasing his Heavenly Jewels, and they could all clearly see four Icy Jade Physical Jewels appear around his right wrist.

Looking at his Physical Jewels, Zhou Weiqing's mouth twitched upwards in a happy smile. Towards Crow, the worst type of opponents were Agility Type Heavenly Jewel Masters with high offensive capabilities, just like Little Four. Since this Wu Zhengyang was a Strength Type Heavenly Jewel Master, how could he possibly compete in strength with Crow? After all, he wasn't Zhou Weiqing!

Crow also released her Heavenly Jewels, and when the three Icy Jade Physical Jewels and three Star Ruby Elemental Jewels appeared around her wrists, loud cries of surprise rang out from amongst the audience.

Crow was just too tall and large, and although her uniform was specially tailored for her, it could not withstand this girl's fighting spirit, as she rolled up her sleeves as soon as she ascended the stage in a fighting stance, thus revealing her Elemental Jewels for her everyone to see.

Originally, seeing that Fei Li Empire had been so arrogant as to only send four team members, all the teams had estimated that this Fei Li Empire had definitely come prepared. None of them had expected to see that the first member to fight would be a mere three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, no matter how valiant or strong she looked. After all, in the Heavenly Jewel Master world, physique did not usually have a large impact on determining victory.

Seeing Crow's three sets of Jewels, Wu Zhengyang started, especially since Crow's Elemental Jewels did not seem to be unique, just ordinary Fire Attributes. He couldn't help but exclaim: "So, you're just here to attempt to intimate people!"

Crow grinned and said: "Heh heh, so what if I'm intimidating?" As she said that, she took a step forward, charging towards Wu Zhengyang.

Wu Zhengyang gave a cold humph, the four Physical Jewels around his right wrist lighting up. Although Crow only had a three-Jeweled cultivation level, he did not underestimate her. To be able to represent the Mi'Ou Battle Team, especially to be sent out first, he definitely had his own merits; no matter in terms of power levels, battle experience, or mentality, he was definitely very outstanding.

A long, nearly 1.5 metres long and half chi wide heavy sword appeared in his hands. At the same time, a shield appeared in his other hand, along with a shoulder pauldrons and chestplate. Glimmering with a silver light along with the Icy Mist, without question, out of the four Consolidated Equipment he had summoned, at leasts three were a set.

As soon as his Consolidated Equipment coalesced, Wu Zhengyang aura and fighting spirit rose dramatically. With a sliding step forward, he swung the heavy sword with a single arm towards Crow's head.

Facing Crow, who had not even released a single Consolidated Equipment, he naturally did not rush to use his Stored Skills. In the Mi'Ou Battle Team, he was the second most powerful person, with only their mainstay being able to beat him. As such, it was possible he had to fight in the 2v2 match once more, and reducing any unnecessary expenditure of Heavenly Energy was extremely important. At least, he would have probe out Crow's actual power first.

A four-Jeweled Strength Attribute Heavenly Jewel Master, in addition to a Consolidated Heavy Sword, the power of the sword as it whistled down was rather stunning, causing a screeching sound as it flew through the air. His own strength, the additional boost of the Consolidated Equipment Set, accompanied by his flowing style of movement, Wu Zhengyang's strike could be said to be nigh perfect. He even covered his own body with the shield in his left hand, protecting himself while he attacked; this was truly the best strategy to test out someone's real power. It was also a position where he could unleash a continuous flurry of blows in succession, and he was extremely confident that he could finish this fight against this lower cultivation level Heavenly Jewel Master quickly.

In truth, Wu Zhengyang's judgement and strategy was not wrong at all; alas he had still underestimated Crow, using a normal Heavenly Jewel Master's power to judge her. Yet, was she normal at all?

Looking at the heavy sword rushing towards her, Crow stopped abruptly. Her fighting skills and combat abilities were deeply ingrained in her, and with a quick lift of her left hand, she actually used her naked hands to grab the Heavy Sword, and even more so, doing so on the blade itself!

No matter what, Wu Zhengyang had not expected Crow to grab his blade just like that! *Claangg* A huge sound rang out as he felt as if his Heavy Sword had embedded itself deep into a steel vise. Despite exerting all of his considerable strength and Heavenly Energy, it did not budge even a little, and Crow's hands did not move as well. As for her, she looked on with a smile on her face as her hands were still grabbing onto the Heavy Sword, looking completely relaxed.

Crow's movements were always simple and straightforward. Whenever a simple action could solve the problem, she would not go for the complicated method. With her left hand still grabbing hold of her opponent's Heavy Sword, her right leg kicked out savagely. Although there was a large Heavy Sword in between them, but Crow just lifted it up and the thick, powerful long legs of hers lashed out in a straight line, smashing into Wu Zhengyang's shield.

*Peng*!

The entire audience's' jaws dropped as Wu Zhengyang flew like a launched cannonball as he was kicked by Crow. Along with his four Consolidated Equipment, he flew all the way out of the stage, past the Resting Houses, before smashing heavily into the Plaza.

And so, the first fight between the Fei Li Battle Team and Mi'Ou Battle Team ended; the entire 'fight' taking barely a few seconds.

Shock. Absolute shock. Even the great powerhouses on the VIP stage stared with their jaws open. As the saying goes, 'In front of Absolute Strength, Tricks are Useless', and Crow truly showed that in front of everyone in that fight.

When Crow had kicked Wu Zhengyang's shield and the loud ensuing sound rang out, many hearts clenched tightly and twitched, as if their owners had been the one kicked.

Wu Zhengyang smashed into the ground, stunned totally until he wasn't even able to get up. His Consolidated Equipment Shield showed several slim cracks, and it was his fourth Jewel's Consolidated Equipment! What kind of terrifying strength was required to do something like that?! After all, he was also a Strength Attribute Heavenly Jewel Master.

Crow stood proudly in the middle of the stage, her hands at her hips as she said airily: "That little gigolo sure didn't have his meal! Come on, next one!"

Only then did the judge recover his senses, and he coughed politely: "About that… Participant Crow, everyone can only fight in one 1v1 fight."

Crow started, then scratched her head sheepishly: "Ohh, right. I forgot about that totally. So, does that fight just now count as my win?"

The judge could only stare at her helplessly, before nodding quickly and saying: "First fight, Fei Li Battle Team wins."

Crow grinned, bowing to the judge, before jumping off the stage. This time, quite a few of them closed their eyes as she landed with another loud thud. This girl definitely had a very unique character!

Zhou Weiqing remained seated in the Rest House, an amused smile dancing on his lips. Crow sure knew how to act! In that fight, she had acted so naive and simpleminded. Together with her huge physique, it was easy for others to dismiss her as a 'musclebrain'.

Of course, if anyone thought that way, they would be very wrong, and would be falling right into her trap. After all, previously when Zhou Weiqing had bet with Little Four, Crow and Xiao Yan had not joined in the bet. Under the guise of her honest, simpleminded exterior, she definitely was extremely intelligent. Of course, her acting skills was good enough to impress even Zhou Weiqing.

Wu Zhengyang was carried back to the Resting House by his team members. When he finally gained his breath, he couldn't help but vomit out a mouthful of blood, his expression turning green. That wasn't because he had sustained any heavy injuries, but rather because he had been just too vexed by that loss. He had not even used much of his power, yet he had lost just like that. He hadn't even used a single Stored Skill! What the…

Alas, a loss was a loss; as long as he fell off the stage, that counted as a loss, and there was nothing he could do about it. By then, the Judge shouted out: "Second fight, one vs one. Get ready, both sides please send your respective team members."

Ye Paopao stood up, arranging his uniform gracefully as he strolled forward. As compared to Crow, he was much more normal, as he walked up the steps to the stage.

Chapter 235: An unexpectedly powerful opponent (1)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Ye Paopao was representing the Fei Li Battle Team for the second fight, while the representative for the Mi'Ou Battle Team was a skinny youth. When they both ascended the stage, he looked over Ye Paopao carefully, and as soon as he deemed that Ye Paopao wasn't like Crow, he heaved a sigh of relief. That scene earlier had definitely imprinted itself in his mind.

"Fei Li Battle Team, Ye Paopao."

"Mi'Ou Battle Team, Zhu Heisan."

The judge shouted out: "Second fight, begin!" There were after all twelve fights in total today, and they had no time to delay.

Ye Paopao flicked his wrist, and the Consolidated Staff appeared in his grasp. As for Zhu Heisan, he immediately charged forward towards Ye Paopao, a completely black Consolidated Dagger held in his right hand He moved extremely swiftly, and in a few steps he had reached Ye Paopao.

Ye Paopao's Physical Jewel was the Yellow Jade signifying toughness, and was mainly for defense. Facing the opponent's charge, he lifted his left hand calmly, and a Consolidated Shield appeared in front of him.

Naturally, as compared to Lin TianAo, his shield was much weaker, and also a lot smaller, a round shield with a mere 1 chi diameter. However, there was a sparkling sapphire socketed on the front of the shield – his Elemental Jewel.

*Ting* a soft sound rang out as the two clashed for the first time. Perhaps the Mi'Ou Battle Team were worried after the first loss, and they sent out another four-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master for this second fight. Furthermore, this Zhu Heisan's Physical Jewel was the Agility Dragonstone Jade.

Although Zhu Heisan's first attack was blocked by Ye Paopao's Consolidated Shield, but his attack did not stop there, as he erupted into a flurry of attacks, a green light shining forth from his left wrist as his entire person seemed to become a bolt of furious lightning, as several dozen attacks encroached upon Ye Paopao's position from all directions.

Back in the rest room, Shangguan Bing'er cried out in surprise: "Ultimate Agility Heavenly Jewel Master!" Indeed, that Zhu Heisan was another Ultimate Agility Heavenly Jewel Master like Shangguan Bing'er, with the Emperor Tourmaline Elemental Jewel and the Dragonstone Jade Physical Jewel.

"We do not to worry that much." Zhou Weiqing said calmly. "The Water Attribute Element has the strongest control amongst the lower levels. Our luck is relatively good."

As soon as Zhou Weiqing finished speaking, the scene on the battlefield chaned once more. Facing Zhu Heisan's whirlwind-like flurry of attacks, Ye Paopao knew that he would not be able to dodge them. With a wave of the staff in his hands, an ice shield appeared behind him, coalescing in place to defend his back and sides. As for the Consolidated little round shield in his left hand, he moved it swiftly, blocking off Zhu Heisan's attacks from the front, and holding his own.

With the Defense Physical Jewel, Ye Paopao was well versed in long ranged offense and closed range defense. Furthermore, during this period of time, he had been humbly learning much from Xiao Yan, and he had definitely learnt much, improving in terms of Control of Heavenly Energy, Usage of Skills and general combat abilities, causing his overall power to jump up by leaps and bounds.

Zhu HeiSan fully displayed his speed, making use of his Stored Skill Gale, causing his entire body to seem like green smoke as he sped up, as his attacks seemed to flow from all directions. Alas, every attack seemed to be blocked or countered somehow. Ye Paopao was not fast, but his defense was steady, with his Ice Shield Skill and the Consolidated Shield in his left hand, he was able to block off wave after wave of attacks.

Zhu HeiSan was naturally faced with the same problems as Shangguan Bing'er. As a Ultimate Agility Heavenly Jewel Master, their greatest weakness was their lack of offensive power. Ye Paopao with his defensive Physical Jewels was able to hold his ground and stave off all the attacks, and Zhu HeiSan was unable to break through and actually deal damage.

Most of the watching audience did not realise that as the two fought and clashed constantly, a diluted, faint Icy mist slowly sprang out from Ye Paopao's feet. To outsiders, it might seem like the mist from the Ice Shield, but this mist actually spread out slowly, pressed down closely to the ground. In the time that the fight had taken, it had slowly spread out to a ten yard radius surrounding the pair.

Just as Zhu HeiSan's flurry of attacks paused for a second as he regained his breath, only then did that icy mist suddenly spring up in action silently. All of a sudden, Zhu HeiSan felt that the temperature of the air dropped drastically. Just as he was about to retreat, he heard Ye Paopao say softly: "Freezing Field!"

In that instant that the Icy Mist sprang forth, Zhu HeiSan felt as if his body was surrounded by countless particles of ice, clinging onto his body with a bone chilling cold freezing his very flesh down to his meridians, causing them to harden.

At such a critical moment, it was down to who had the better trump card. Zhu HeiSan did not hesitate at all, waving his right hand, and three bouts of green light shot forth from his hands into the air. It was three throwing darts, with each imbued with the power of his Dragonstone Jade.

Who would have thought that for Zhu HeiSan's four Physical Jewels, three of them were actually the exact same weapon, and just flying darts!

As the three darts flew into the air, they struck each other in midair, abruptly sticking to each other. In the dense green light, they seemed to meld into a single large dart, yet not losing its insane speed as it drew a beautiful green arch in the sky, speeding forth towards Ye Paopao's right chest.

Of course, as an Ultimate Agility Heavenly Jewel Master, Zhu HeiSan knew about his own lack of offensive powers. His three darts were an Assembly Set just like Lin TianAo's shield, bringing about a similar effect. However, in his case, it was used for attacking, and it was only made of three Jewels. Added on to the fact that its base offense wasn't extremely high, as such, it was still a lot weaker if compared to Lin TianAo's shield.

Still, that was only in relation. The three flying darts merged together was definitely not something to be overlooked, greatly increasing Zhu HeiSan's offensive powers. Adding on the the fact that it came as such a huge surprise and speed, Ye Paopao was not even able to react.

In the Resting House, Zhou Weiqing's expression changed. It all happened too fast that even he was unable to reach forward to help even if he wanted to.

However, at such a moment of critical danger, the calmest person was actually Ye Paopao. Earlier, when Zhu HeiSan had waved his right hand at him, he had already started making preparations.

The Icy Mist of his Water Attribute Elemental Heavenly Energy that he had released earlier, along with his Freezing Field Skill, he knew it had definitely dealt a large blow to Zhu HeiSan, at least restricting his speed. Without question, Zhu HeiSan's had just used a skill in an attempt to strike out before he got Controlled fully. In truth, Ye Paopao's battle skill and instincts were not that lacking, and he had been trying to force his opponent's hand, who had fallen right into his expectations.

*Swoosh* the Consolidated Flyin Dart flew right through Ye Paopao's right chest. However, Ye Paopao was not injured at all, because right at that instant, two Ye Paopaos appeared on the stage.

Water Attribute Seven Star Rated Support Skill, Mirror Image. The user could use Water Attribute Heavenly Energy to form a phantasm which was exactly the same as their own main body. At the same time, when using this skill, all Water Attribute Abilities were boosted. At Ye Paopao's current four-Jeweled cultivation level, it would actually boost his Water Attribute Abilities by almost twenty percent.

Even though he had been prepared for it and unleashed it at the fastest possible speed, he still only just managed to barely dodge his opponent's massive blow with that Mirror Image skill. Indeed, Ye Paopao was given an alarming scare, causing him to break out in cold sweat. Zhu HeiSan's power was definitely beyond what he had expected.

The three Assembly Set Flying Dart missed its target, and it swiftly returned back to Zhu HeiSan's hands. However, Ye Paopao would not give him any further chances to attack.

With the Icy Mist and Freezing Field boosted by the Mirror Image Skill, their effect grew stronger, and Zhu HeiSan's speed had been restricted, almost fully controlled, and he felt as if his entire body was frozen in place.

A plain looking ice shield pressed hard against his body and arms, causing him to be unable to unleash his Flying Darts once more. When he tried to retreat, he found another three Ice Shields pressing against him from behind, locking him in place.

As an Ice Spear began forming in Ye Paopao's hands, a cold female voice rang out from the Mi'Ou Battle Team. "We admit defeat for this loss."

Ye Paopao did not pursue his attack. After all, although Zhu HeiSan's earlier attack with his Consolidated Assembly Set Darts was shocking, he had only aimed it at his right chest, not at his heart. The two did not have any deep hatred for each other, and forcefully attacking and injuring the opponent was absolutely unnecessary, even foolish.

Quickly releasing his Ice Spear, and Zhu HeiSan from his 'prison' of Icy Mist and Shields, Ye Paopao gave a slight bow and smiled towards Zhu HeiSan, saying: "You've let me win." 1

Zhu HeiSan said a little vexedly: "Ahh, I have lost out. I should have gone all out and used my three Jeweled Assembly Set right from the get go, perhaps I might have had a bigger chance."

In truth, in terms of overall combat prowess and power, Zhu HeiSan was no weaker than Ye Paopao. However, he did not want to reveal his powers so quickly, but Ye Paopao was tougher than he expected and seized the opportunity swiftly, otherwise the match would have been a lot closer, and the result up in the air.

Once again, the Judge proclaimed the victor to be the Fei Li Battle Team, and both sides bowed to each other politely before descending the stage.

That was a rather normal fight indeed, but before the audience could recover, the immense and shocking Crow suddenly appeared in their vision once more.

Naturally, she was back on stage for the third fight, the 2v2!

Another explosion sounded out again as Crow jumped up onto the stage. Zhou Weiqing grinned, unlimbering his muscles swiftly as he stretched quickly, before he walked towards the stage.

"Little Fatty, be careful." Shangguan Bing'er said concernedly. Earlier, the triple Assembly Set Flying Darts had given her a small shock. Indeed, this Heavenly Jewel Tournament was a collection of young talents, and no one could be estimated, as no one knew what secret or unique skills could be seen.

Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Do not worry, you know my motto, safety first!"

Seeing that Crow had ascended the stage for a second time, Wu Zhengyang rushed out unhesitatingly from the Mi'Ou Battle Team again. He had really been vexed by his first loss, and he wanted to gain back his face, or he would be too embarrassed to even stay in the team.

Right behind Wu Zhengyang, a young lady followed from the Mi'Ou Battle Team. She looked to be around twenty five years of age, with a small, almost delicate, frame. Her features were above average, but with a cold expression on her face as she examined Crow with a wary look.

Crow looked to Zhou Weiqing and asked softly: "How do we do this?"

Zhou Weiqing's smile froze as he said: "How do we do this? What do you think, finding a sexual partner? 2We deal with one each, that gigolo is yours, and the beauty is mine. Fair enough?"

"Alright." Crow nodded immediately in agreement.

Chapter 236: An unexpectedly powerful opponent (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

"Fei Li Battle Team, Crow."

"Fei Li Battle Team, Zhou Weiqing."

"Mi'Ou Battle Team, Wu Zhengyang."

"Mi'Ou Battle Team, Jiang Fei."

After the four introduced themselves, the judge gave the signal to start, and the 3rd fight between the two teams began.

As both sides simultaneously summoned their Heavenly Jewels, the surrounding audience gave a loud cry of surprise. Not only because Zhou Weiqing also only had three sets of Jewels, but also because that small young lady called Jiang Fei had actually five sets of Jewels! At her age, that definitely put her at one of the top few talents in the world, and she was undoubtedly the mainstay of the Mi'Ou Battle Team.

Accompanying the Judge's command, the fight started officially. Although Wu Zhengyang's face was unreconciled and full of regret, he did not just blindly charge forward. Releasing his Heavy Sword, a bright glow flashed upon the tip of the sword, and his right arm flexed as the Heavy Sword whistled forward, and the glow flew out swiftly as an ethereal sword strike towards Zhou Weiqing and Crow.

Both sides were more than twenty yards apart, and naturally by the time it reached Zhou Weiqing, the sword glow's power was definitely not able to harm them. That sword only had one motive, to prevent Zhou Weiqing and Crow from charging forward towards them into close range. Although he was not satisfied with the previous result, Wu Zhengyang had to admit that in terms of pure physical strength, he was definitely no match for Crow.

However, who would expect that both Crow and Zhou Weiqing stood there unmoved, with not even the hint of wanting to move, just watching as the sword strike dissipated right in front of them.

Crow turned to Zhou Weiqing and asked in a puzzled tone: "What is he doing? Chopping the air?"

Zhou Weiqing shrugged casually: "How would I know? Perhaps he landed on his head earlier just now, and damaged his brain?"

Crow was her usual naive, almost foolish look, and Zhou Weiqing had his customary honest looking smile as soon as he ascended the stage. This pair was definitely a great pair of actors, as they played off each other's words, causing many of the audience to burst out laughing.

Wu Zhengyang was so enraged that his face turned red, then white, and he was about to react when Jiang Fei said solemnly from behind: "Do not fall into their trap. Steady yourself and defend first."

Strangely, as soon as Jiang Fei spoke, Wu Zhengyang immediately calmed down. Brandishing his Heavy Sword, he glared at Zhou Weiqing and Crow as he focused his mind on the fight.

A four-Jeweled Light Attribute Heavenly Jewel MAster was definitely an superb partner to anyone. Amongst the Greater Attributes, the Light Attribute was relatively more common, but it was still a Greater Attribute after all.

With Zhou Weiqing's power, with his Alexandrite Cat's Eye and Legendary Consolidated Equipment, he would have no problems fighting and beating those of a higher cultivation level up to four Jewels, but facing a five-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master would likely be more problematic. After all, the difference in Heavenly Energy was just too huge. In the past, when he had managed to get an advantage in the fight with Ming Wu, that was because Ming Wu had truly underestimated him, first through the bet, and later also not unleashing his full power, allowing Zhou Weiqing to seize the opportunity and succeeding in a sneak attack.

Of course, the current Zhou Weiqing was truly strong. After all, he had a large number of Skills, six times more than any ordinary Heavenly Jewel Master of the same level! Furthermore, he had Stored so many high ranking Skills, especially Control Skills; as such, it would boil down to how the fight came to pass.

Standing behind Wu Zhengyang, Jiang Fei raised both her hands, and they could clearly see the five Red Jade Physical Jewels, signifying the Coordination Attribute around her right wrist, light up all at once.

Zhou Weiqing's heart clenched involuntarily, and he couldn't help but complain to himself inwardly: Yet another Consolidated Equipment Set?! Didn't Master Huyan say that it was extremely rare, why is it in this Heavenly Jewel Tournament, it seems like these Sets are like wild cabbages, found everywhere?! In the previous fights, there have been at least ten competitors releasing various sorts of Consolidating Equipment Sets already…

However, Zhou Weiqing quickly realised that his judgement was in error – the five Physical Jewels that Jiang Fei had released was not a Consolidated Equipment Set.

All Consolidated Equipment Sets had a consistent, or even identical, markings, as well as a close connection with each other. However, the five Consolidated Equipment that appeared around Jiang Fei was actually very different.

A black metallic glove, a long black staff, a single black armguard on her right arm, a black right shoulder pauldrons and black helmet. Strangely, all five of her Consolidated Equipment seemed to be consolidated on her right, and all of them had a single socket, currently already socketed with her Elemental Jewel, the black pearls signifying the Darkness Attribute.

Zhou Weiqing was not an ordinary Heavenly Jewel Master, he was also a Consolidating Equipment Master, and on seeing Jiang Fei's equipment, a chill ran down his spine as he suddenly thought of something. Quickly, he shouted out: "Crow, be careful! That girl is an Ultimate Offense type Heavenly Jewel Master, likely a ranged specialist."

An Ultimate Offense type Heavenly Jewel Master referred to one who had focused all their power into offensive capabilities, totally ignoring defense or control. No matter their Consolidated Equipment or Stored Skills, they would only concentrate on offense. Their Consolidated Equipment were usually imbued with certain skills, usually boosts on offense like empowering strength or elemental damage. In addition, with the sockets, they could usually improve the power of their Elemental Jewel Stored Skills. Judging from her equipment and the staff in her right hand, Zhou Weiqing quickly made a snap decision on her.

To totally sacrifice defense to focus on offense, such an ultimate offense type Heavenly Jewel Master definitely played things to the extremes, and could be extremely risky. However, when done right, their power was extremely terrifying.

The truth was indeed as Zhou Weiqing had guessed. Jiang Fei's five Consolidated Equipment were all imbued with a boost to her Darkness Attribute, causing her five Stored Darkness Skills to be strengthened to an insane level. Under such extreme measures, her offensive capabilities alone were comparable to that of a top grade six-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master. Zhou Weiqing had not expected to meet such a tough opponent on just their first round of the Heavenly Jewel Tournament.

At the same time that he shouted out the warning to Crow, his Overlord Bow appeared in his hands. As Wu Zhengyang was fully focused on support and defense, he would certainly not be so easy to take down. At the same time, Jiang Fei would be behind him attacking with her terrifying offense. As such, Zhou Weiqing knew he had to suppress them with his attacks, in order to have a chance.

Despite Zhou Weiqing's warning, Crow still charged forward valiantly. At the same time, Jiang Fei's first attack was launched.

With a wave of her black staff, a jet black ball of light immediately flew towards Crow; at the same time, a black shadow extended from her feet, growing slowly towards Zhou Weiqing.

Zhou Weiqing also took action at the same time as her, the Overlord Bow in his hand flashing as an arrow shot out like a bolt of lightning. Both sides were so close, and it was almost like he had just lifted the Overlord Bow when the arrow had already flown out.

For Wu Zhengyang on the other side, the moment he saw Zhou Weiqing summon out his Overlord Bow, he reacted swiftly by summoning a shield of light. As the brilliant gold light coalesced in front of him, it also covered Jiang Fei. Though it was shimmeringly transparent and seemingly unsolid, it would be a mistake to underestimate it. This Shimmering Light Shield was a six star rated skill, and amongst Elemental Jewel Stored Skills, it was one of the top defensive abilities. Without doubt, since Jiang Fei was an ultimate offense type Heavenly Jewel Master, in order to better coordinate with her, her teammate had to have a great defense.

However, Zhou Weiqing's first arrow was not shot at the two opponents, instead flying towards the the black ball of light that Jiang Fei had shot towards Crow. With a huge explosion which caused the air to reverberate, and the black ball and arrow both evaporated at the same time.

Jiang Fei started a little, while Zhou Weiqing's brow also arched up slightly. Without question, Jiang Fei was surprised that Zhou Weiqing, at only three-Jeweled cultivation level, was able to break her powerful attack with just a single arrow.

Of course, Zhou Weiqing's arrow was no simple arrow, and it actually held his Heavenly Lightning Shock Skill, with its specialised ability to disrupt or break Skills, in addition to the Overlord Bow's explosive effect, it just barely managed to break her attack. However, he had also clearly felt that his arrow had disintegrated the moment it touched the ball of black light. If not for the fact that the imbued Skill had managed to release right before it happened, perhaps it would have been swallowed by the ball as well.

The was the difference in offensive power and level.

No matter how genius Zhou Weiqing was, no matter how many powerful and high rated skills he had, he was still after all only at the three-Jeweled cultivation level, while his opponent was not only a five-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, but also a genius ultimate offensive Darkness Heavenly Jewel Master! Under such a circumstance, if he tried to take her attacks head on, even with his legendary hammers, he might not necessarily be able to block them.

Jiang Fei's surprise only lasted a split second before she recovered, her gaze still cold as she waved her staff once more. This time, five balls of black lights flew out, still targeted at Crow, moving at an even greater speed than the previous single one. At the same time, it seemed like there was a faint line connecting all five of them, causing them to be joined somehow in some unique meaning.

At the same time, the black shadow extending from Jiang Fei's legs had also finally reached Zhou Weiqing.

In this 2v2 fight, it could be said that Jiang Fei and Wu Zhengyang had displayed an amazing teamwork and coordination. One light, one dark; one offense, one defense, it showed great cooperation and tacit understanding.

Zhou Weiqing did not know what the black shadow approaching his feet were, but he was clear that it was definitely not to be underestimated. If he got entangled by it, it could possibly be a powerful control skill or offense.

Caught in such a situation, Zhou Weiqing displayed the amazing archery he had learned and trained in the Heavenly Bow Unit. Five arrows appeared in his fingers, and they shot out simultaneously in a single whirring sound. Almost at the same time, five explosions rang out at the other end; he had once again chosen to break Jiang Fei's attack on Crow. Simultaneously, Zhou Weiqing jumped up from the ground; in order to help Crow, he had no chance to deal with his incoming problem directly.

The shadow which had reached Zhou Weiqing's feet leapt up abruptly, as if it were Zhou Weiqing's shadow, as it striked out at him.

hapter 237: An unexpectedly powerful opponent (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

By now, Zhou Weiqing was quite sure that this was a powerful Sealing Technique. From its slow movement speed, its power was likely extremely terrifying. If he were sealed by it, not even mentioning the rest of this fight, he could probably forget about fighting for the rest of the fights as well.

Still in mid air, Zhou Weiqing forcibly turned his body, the Overlord Bow in his right hand, while his left hand slid forth and waved at the incoming shadow. In a flash of silver light, a large, three yard wide tear in the air appeared below his feet.

As the black shadow clashed with the rift, an earsplitting sound rang out in the plaza. At that point, Jiang Fei's Darkness Skill, and its terrifying offense, was displayed in its full glory. Even facing Zhou Weiqing's Spatial Rend, her Sealing Technique was still not disrupted. Although a portion of it vanished into a puff of black smoke, some of it managed to get around the Spatial Rift, continuing to chase Zhou Weiqing. The strangest thing was that, as they passed each other, it seemed to leave a black stain in the air, as if even though weakened by the Spatial Rend, it had left its mark in the air.

If Zhou Weiqing had been at the same cultivation level as Jiang Fei, at five Jewels, even without any boost from Consolidated Equipment, his King Stage Skill Spatial Rend would definitely be able to block her Darkness Sealing Technique. Alas, the difference in power levels and Heavenly Energy quality was just too great, and even the King Stage Spatial Rend was unable to completely dissipate the attack.

Right at that moment, two consecutive explosions rang out, as Crow had finally reached Wu Zhengyang in her charge, under the cover of Zhou Weiqing's arrows. Having fought with him earlier, she knew that he was no pushover and she immediately released her legendary axes and swung them savagely at his shield of light.

Wu Zhengyang was at the four-Jeweled cultivation level, one Jewel more than Crow, but how could Crow's attacks be looked upon with ordinary logic. With the legendary axes each weighing more than a thousand jin, along with her terrifying strength, what sort of power did that hold?

Even though Zhou Weiqing had his pair of legendary Consolidated Equipment Hammers, but their main strength was from their set bonuses, various imbued buffs as well as their boost to Elemental Skills. Without making use of any skills, and just in terms of pure physical combat, Zhou Weiqing was definitely sure that his plain attacks were not comparable in any way to Crow.

Despite the fact that the Shimmering Light Shield had an impressive defense, cracks still appeared upon it when Crow's first blow chopped down hard. As her second axe landed on it, it wavered as more cracks appeared, and was clearly on the verge of breaking.

At this point, the ZhongTian Emperor, Shangguan Tianxin, who was seated comfortably in the VIP stand, smiled faintly as he said: "These two three-Jeweled little fellows are very interesting. To be able to see the Spatial Rend Skill here, impressive. And that little girl with the huge physique… that pair of axes aren't ordinary as well. As for that little girl from the Mi'Ou Empire, she is impressive herself, her power levels is almost at our ZhongTian reserve team level."

Jing Fei did not look at Zhou Weiqing, nor did she hesitate a moment. Right after her second round of attacks targeted at Crow was once again disrupted by Zhou Weiqing, she launched a third salvo, still the five balls of black light as before. However, this time, it would not be as easy for Zhou Weiqing to disrupt the attack, as he was now facing the threat of the black shadow nipping at his heels.

At this point, the easiest, and perhaps best solution for Zhou Weiqing was undoubtedly to use the Blink Skill to avoid the shadow; that way, even if it continued chasing him, he would still have time to plan and react. However, if he did that, Crow would have to face the two opponents by herself during the period when Zhou Weiqing was dealing with the shadow. As such, Zhou Weiqing ignored that easy option, and instead did something that no one else understood.

Still in midair, Zhou Weiqing stopped dodging and running, instead using his right leg to kick at the shadow, as if doing so in a subconscious movement. At the same time, he swiftly shot an arrow into the air. It was already too late for him to shoot five arrows to block the five black balls speeding towards Crow, but he had his own plans to deal with that.

The remaining shadows instantly swarmed into Zhou Weiqing's right leg, without making a sound. At the other end, Jiang Fei's mouth curled up into a smile. In her eyes, Zhou Weiqing was finished; without her help, he would not be able to break free of that, and with that skill, she could even take his life. Of course, she did not think of killing Zhou Weiqing, but would wait until the fights were all over before she would help him remove the seal, also known as the Necrosis Decay Seal.

At the other side, the five balls of black light had reached Crow, just as she had finished her second blow and destroyed the shield of light.

Jiang Fei had supreme confidence in her Skill. Not to mention a three-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, even a similar five-Jeweled Master would be hard pressed to take on her fully boosted Skills head on. After all, the Darkness Attribute's greatest strength was its continuous and sustained attacks; once it hit, its destructive capabilities would last for quite a long time.

"Heaven Destruction!" Crow shouted out loud, and the two legendary axes in her hands suddenly glowed in a brilliant maleficent crimson light. At the same time, her sleeves evaporated as her muscles bulged out, and it could clearly be seen on her large arms a blood-red glow similarly shine forth. As she swung the axes, the red glow followed, dancing around eerily as they slashed through the air, striking hard into the five balls of black light which were actually smashed apart, losing control and falling to the ground.

An earsplitting *chih chih* sound rang out, as the black balls of light fell onto the ground one by one. The tough diamond rock was actually dissolved in a one yard diameter for each ball, causing a huge hole to form in the stage, and it was spreading wider.

At that point, Crow turned to smash her glowing red axes into the shield of light once more, and in a large explosion, the shield of light shattered, dissipating into many golden glows of light. Like a whirlwind of death, she continued charging towards Wu Zhengyang.

On the VIP stage, when the many powerhouses saw Crow's arms and axes glow in that sudden brilliant red light, they all exclaimed in surprise: "Blood Sacrifice Legendary Weapon?"

Even Shangguan Tianxin's expression changed. "No wonder I felt that the pair of axes were special, they are actually Blood Sacrifice Legendary Weapons, requiring specific bloodlines to activate. Since she is from the Fei Li Empire, and with such a physique, she must be from the Gold Crow Tribe then. Haha, this Fei Li Battle Team is quite remarkable!"

No one had expected Crow's sudden outburst, and Zhou Weiqing had also not expected that she would be able to break through both their opponents' attacks so easily. As such, their understanding and teamwork ran into problems. The charging Crow suddenly found herself stopped in her tracks, as a silver light enveloped her, just managing to save Wu Zhengyang, who was just about to be struck by her whirling axes.

Alas, that skill was Zhou Weiqing's Spatial Shackles. As it turns out, when Zhou Weiqing had been unable to take care of the last five black balls, in order to protect Crow, after releasing the arrow into the air, he had used the Spatial Shackles on her. His plan had been for the Spatial Shackles to land just as Jiang Fei's balls struck, which would block most, if not all, of the attacks, allowing him time to react after dealing with the shadow. Unfortunately, he had not expected Crow to power through the balls so swiftly, and his Spatial Shackles ended up being more hindrance than help, causing him to stare helplessly for a split second, at a loss whether to cry or to laugh.

*Bang* *Bang* *Bang* *Bang* The Spatial Shackles did not block Crow for long, only standing for less than two seconds before she cleaved through it with her axes with the 'Heaven Destruction' in effect. However, Wu Zhengyang had seized the opportunity to catch his breath, and another Shimmering Light Shield sprang up. At the same time, the Heavy Sword in his hand slashed forward, glowing with the effect of his skill as he struck towards her from behind the shield.

At that moment, the one who was most surprised was actually Jiang Fei; not because of Crow and her arrows, but because of Zhou Weiqing. When Zhou Weiqing had landed on the ground, he had actually drawn his bow again, as if the Necrosis Decay Seal had not taken effect at all.

However, surprise was surprise, it did not stop her from acting swiftly. Jiang Fei raised her hands once more to unleash another five balls of light. This time, it wasn't on an attack, but floating above her head in a circle, the linking thread between them seemingly growing more solid until it seemed to form a black shield, blocking the arrow descending from the sky. Using an attack as a defense, such control over her energy and skills was indeed top quality. She knew that for Zhou Weiqing to take an attack to unleash that arrow, it definitely couldn't be just any simple arrow.

The truth was indeed like she expected; in shooting that arrow upwards, Zhou Weiqing had used an archery skill to extend the duration it stayed in midair, and when used as a sneak attack, it indeed would have a good effect.

This was actually the Heavenly Bow Unit's Transvestite Yi Shi's secret technique, called the Sky Descent Arrow. Although Zhou Weiqing had only learnt about fifty percent of it, but its effect was not to be denied.

*Puff* The Sky Descent Arrow fell right smack into the black shield made out of the five black balls above Jiang Fei, melting instantly. However, it still managed to released its skills.

This arrow was what Zhou Weiqing had planned to use to turn the tides, how could it be that simple? With a huge explosion, uncountable bolts of purple blue lightning spread forth in the sky. Naturally, Jiang Fei was protected by her shield of black balls, and did not sustain any damage. With Zhou Weiqing's Heavenly Energy, even with the explosive effect of the Overlord Bow, it could not hurt her. However, that was not the only Skill that Zhou Weiqing had socketed, nor was it only targeted at her.

Thousand Lightning Strikes. Currently, Zhou Weiqing's only AOE attack skill. As it exploded forth, its huge area of effect meant that Crow would actually be in the attack. However, due to the fact that it descended from the sky, it ended up behind the 'enemy lines'. In front of Jiang Fei and Wu Zhengyang was his Shimmering Light Shield, which ended up blocking the bolts spreading out in that direction, actually protecting Crow from it! As such, the only unfortunate recipient of the entire skill was Wu Zhengyang.

The offensive power of the Thousand Lightning Strikes was not great, especially since it was an AOE type skill. However, being struck by nearly the full impact of it, and so unexpectedly, Wu Zhengyang was still dealt a huge blow, causing his entire body to go numb, his hair standing, and a burnt smell emitting from his body.

At the same time, Jiang Fei did not go unscathed. That was because Zhou Weiqing had imbued a second skill in the arrow – Absolute Delay.