All the students began whispering among themselves, exchanging glances as Haoran commanded attention with his words. Anger flared within him—he felt insulted—but more than that, he was stunned. How had Chen gained so much power? Haoran himself was only Foundation Level 7, so how could Chen have forced him backward so effortlessly? He hadn't been alert, and that was his mistake.
Standing up, Haoran fixed his gaze on Chen and sneered, "You're nothing but a weak, useless boy, cast out by your family. Do you really think that getting a little stronger will make the ye Family accept you—or your mother? That's a foolish delusion. You will always be a loser. Your father never cared for you then, and he won't now or ever. To him, you're just trash."
Every word was calculated, meant to provoke Chen and push him into a mistake—one that might give Haoran the perfect chance to strike. Ever since the news of Chen's fights had reached the ye Family, all eyes were on him. Haoran couldn't afford even a hint of risk that might jeopardize his own position; he feared that their father might call Chen back into the family fold.
Chen listened quietly, his fists clenching—not out of anger at Haoran's insult to him, but at the disrespect shown to his mother. Yet, instead of reacting violently, he allowed a small smile to form. "I know you're afraid. Afraid that Father might bring me back into the family. But I'm better than you," Chen said calmly. "Because Father knows you're just a playboy, indulging in pleasures, and nothing more. That's why I'm the better candidate for the ye Family."
Haoran's expression shifted as he heard Chen's words. Had Chen read his thoughts? Trying to mask his surprise, he forced a confident tone. "Don't get too cocky. Let's make this interesting. If you take first place in this competition, I'll give you ten thousand dollars. But if you lose… you'll become my slave. Do you accept, or are you scared?"
A faint, satisfied smile crossed Chen's face. Ten thousand dollars wasn't a bad deal—and winning the competition was exactly what he wanted. "Fine. I accept," Chen replied, walking away.
Word of Chen accepting the bet spread quickly across the college. Now, everyone eagerly awaited the competition—this was no small wager.
---
Meanwhile, in the ye Family mansion…
In the study, Zhenhai sat in his chair, a cigar in hand, reviewing several files. The door opened, and a subordinate entered, bowing low in respect. "Sir, we've gathered information on Young Master Chen. It's true—he's resumed cultivation. His Dantian has healed completely, and he's been showing impressive skills, defeating students from other colleges."
Zhenhai waved his hand, dismissing the man, who bowed and left. After the door closed, Zhenhai continued, reviewing the files aloud. "And what do you have to say about this?"
The loyal butler, standing to the side, suggested respectfully, "Sir, perhaps it's best to verify this personally. Rumors alone aren't enough. If it's true, Chen could become a weapon for the A Family—an asset capable of accomplishing great things in the future."
Zhenhai nodded. "Very well. Confirm it. If he proves useful, we'll bring him back into the family." The butler bowed in agreement.
---
A few days later…
Chen trained relentlessly in the forests, pushing himself to become stronger as quickly as possible. Achieving breakthroughs at the Soul Purification level required immense spiritual energy, and even he had to push past exhaustion. Sweat dripped down his face, yet a smile remained. He summoned a Dark Sword in his hands, channeling his dark qi into it.
He unleashed a slash—not using his full power, careful to avoid unnecessary destruction—but even so, the strike obliterated everything in front of him. Chen allowed himself a satisfied smile.
"Now, he was strong enough to perform impressively at Rainy Mountain. Sensing a presence behind him, he spun, releasing another sword slash. The entire area shattered under its force. When Chen looked ahead, his eyes widened in shock at what he saw before him."