Chapter 66: The Ten Powerhouses
The Trade Market was bustling with activity. Contractors from various paradises moved through the streets, their eyes scanning the stalls for valuable items. Among them, a figure in a dark coat walked calmly, his presence drawing subtle glances from those who recognized him.
Su Xiao, known as Bai Ye in the Reincarnation Paradise, had just returned from a lengthy mission. His expression remained neutral as he navigated through the crowd, his mind already focused on the next steps. The Void Tree Reputation he had accumulated was substantial, but he needed more resources to prepare for the upcoming challenges.
As he passed by a stall selling rare alchemical materials, a notification appeared in his vision.
[Notification: The Ten Powerhouses Competition will commence in 72 hours. Eligible contractors may register at the central arena.]
Su Xiao paused, his eyes narrowing slightly. The Ten Powerhouses Competition was a major event in the Void Tree system, where the strongest contractors from all paradises competed for the title. The rewards were immense, including Golden Skill Points, True Attribute Points, and exclusive equipment.
"Interesting," he muttered under his breath.
He continued walking, his pace unchanged. The competition was dangerous, but the potential gains were worth the risk. He needed to strengthen himself further, especially with the looming threats from the Abyss and the Arcane Eternal Star.
Upon reaching his Exclusive Room, Su Xiao entered and activated the privacy settings. The room shifted, transforming into a spacious training area. He sat cross-legged on the floor, closing his eyes to assess his current status.
His Blade Path techniques had reached a new level, but he still needed to refine his control over the Cyan Steel Shadow Energy. The recent battle against the Archbishop of the Abyss had pushed him to his limits, revealing weaknesses he needed to address.
"Bubu Wang," he called out.
A large dog materialized from the shadows, its eyes gleaming with intelligence. Bubu Wang wagged its tail, approaching Su Xiao with a curious tilt of its head.
"Monitor the surroundings. I'll be entering the Skill Upgrade Pod," Su Xiao instructed.
Bubu Wang nodded, taking a position near the door. Su Xiao stood and walked to the Skill Upgrade Pod, a cylindrical device humming with energy. He stepped inside, and the pod sealed shut.
[Skill Upgrade Pod activated. Current Skill Points: 12. Golden Skill Points: 3. Do you wish to proceed?]
"Proceed," Su Xiao confirmed.
The pod hummed louder, and a wave of energy washed over him. He focused on his Blade Path Sword: Azure Demon technique, feeling the improvements taking shape. The process was painful but necessary.
Hours passed. When the pod finally opened, Su Xiao stepped out, his movements sharper and more precise. He clenched his fist, feeling the increased power coursing through his veins.
"Not bad," he said quietly.
He checked his status panel, noting the improvements. His True Strength and True Agility had increased, and his Blade Grandmaster skill had reached a new threshold. The Golden Skill Points had been well spent.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. Bubu Wang growled softly, but Su Xiao raised a hand to calm it.
"Enter," he said.
The door slid open, revealing a familiar figure. It was Mawen Hua'erzi, his expression serious.
"Bai Ye, I heard you're planning to participate in the Ten Powerhouses Competition," Mawen said.
"That's right," Su Xiao replied, not bothering to deny it.
"Be careful. This year's competition is different. There are rumors that some of the participants have formed alliances, targeting specific individuals. You're on their list," Mawen warned.
Su Xiao's eyes flickered with cold amusement. "Let them come."
Mawen sighed, knowing better than to argue. "Just don't underestimate them. The competition isn't just about strength; it's about strategy. The Ten Powerhouses title comes with privileges, but also responsibilities."
"I understand," Su Xiao said. "Thanks for the warning."
Mawen nodded and left, leaving Su Xiao alone with his thoughts. He turned to Bubu Wang, who was watching him expectantly.
"Prepare the equipment. We're going to the Attribute Enhancement Hall," Su Xiao ordered.
Bubu Wang barked in acknowledgment, disappearing into the shadows to retrieve the necessary items. Su Xiao glanced at the clock on the wall. Seventy-two hours. He had much to do before the competition began.
The Ten Powerhouses Competition was not just a test of combat prowess; it was a battlefield where only the strongest survived. And Su Xiao intended to claim his place among them.