Chapter 68: Good Words Can't Persuade a Dead Ghost
Simply put, Huang Xing is not ready. His strength is too weak, and even with the support of someone strong like Jiang Tian, the benefit would be limited.
If he followed Jiang Tian and achieved results that didn't truly belong to him, it would only endanger his future. It was better for him to join the regular army, take the exam as intended, and gain real experience.
The process of this exam was far more important than the final result.
Jiang Tian had made up his mind, and Huang Xing didn't argue. Since his brother was confident, he could only support him.
"By the way, I prepared some food for you." Jiang Tian suddenly remembered and took out vacuum-sealed packages from his space ring.
Inside were braised pig heads, braised pig trotters, and other preserved dishes. He handed them to Huang Xing, stuffing them into his backpack.
His cooking was highly effective—restoring blood energy, replenishing stamina, and providing lasting nourishment. Since Huang Xing was his close friend, he wanted to help him a little.
"And classmate Guo, you helped with the Bone Chopping Knife. This is my way of saying thanks." Jiang Tian handed over some food to Guo Qihang as well. Though not as much as what he gave Huang Xing, there were still ten packages.
Guo Qihang accepted the food, then looked at Jiang Tian curiously. "You actually have a space ring?"
"It's a gift from Xue because I helped during the awakening assessment."
Guo Qihang's eyes widened. He glanced between Jiang Tian and Xue Ruyan, his gaze darting back and forth before smirking. "Classmate Xue, do you have any rich girlfriends? I want to be a gigolo too."
Jiang Tian: "…"
Xue Ruyan coughed awkwardly. "Student, stop talking nonsense."
Before she could finish speaking, Huang Xing immediately clasped his hands together. "Boss Xue, don't hide it! Introduce me to a rich girlfriend! I have a great appetite, but I can only afford to eat soft rice."
Jiang Tian grabbed both of them by the necks. "What do you mean by gigolo?"
Huang Xing and Guo Qihang struggled but were firmly locked in Jiang Tian's grip. Even when it was their turn to go through the Space-Time Gate, they were still being dragged by him.
After stepping through, the surrounding spiritual energy didn't feel much different. The Huotang Small World constantly leaked spiritual energy back into Xiang City through the Space-Time Gate.
Looking up, the sun shone brightly, yet stars remained faintly visible in the sky. The entire scene felt slightly surreal.
The Huotang Small World was its own independent domain, yet it was referred to as a "Starry Sky Road."
The Red Realm was the main world, but there was no direct connection between it and the human world. Instead, numerous smaller worlds, like Huotang, acted as bridges.
These Starry Sky Roads were the battlegrounds for humans and alien races.
"Old Jiang, your strength is insane!" Huang Xing rubbed his red neck, still in shock.
"I think I finally understand how Bai Zunren felt when he was slapped unconscious," Guo Qihang muttered.
"Old Jiang, we're heading out." Huang Xing pointed toward another direction. "Be careful."
Guo Qihang also waved as they left.
Jiang Tian nodded, watching them join the regular army's recruitment area. Officers were stationed there, conducting preliminary assessments.
Projected screens displayed the details—there were ten brigades, each with different styles and strengths.
Joining the regular army required passing an evaluation. Stronger teams offered better leadership, superior training, and higher military merit opportunities but had stricter requirements.
The martial arts college entrance exam would not just measure performance; it would also assess compatibility, leadership, and adaptability.
The vast majority of students chose to join different army teams, carefully analyzing the projected information before making their decision.
Only a few strong individuals opted for free action, moving toward the base's outer exits.
Free movement wasn't complete freedom—it came with responsibilities. Rules were displayed on another screen, outlining how to handle encounters with the regular army and avoid interference with larger operations.
A bright red warning stood out:
"Free action grants higher military merit but comes with an extremely high mortality rate."
Another projection displayed a tactical map, providing guidance for navigation.
Before setting off, free-action participants were also issued special tactical mobile devices with limited functionality—only location tracking and map navigation.
At the registration area for free movement, Jiang Tian and Xue Ruyan attracted attention.
"Just the two of you forming a team for free action?" The examiner frowned as he looked at their files. His expression darkened.
"You're both from Yue City?"
His frown deepened.
"You two are courting death. This is completely irresponsible!"
His loud reprimand drew the attention of many around them, including students from the four major universities.
Leng Hao, the leader of Xiangshi High School's team, glanced in their direction.
"Brother Leng, look at these small-town fools. They don't know their limits," a student beside him sneered.
"Yeah, let them be. If they don't listen, it's their funeral," another chuckled.
"They'll either turn back in disgrace or die out there."
Leng Hao remained silent, merely shaking his head.