Translating this takes a lot less than than GSB since the writing is a lot simpler. Although it’s hard to figure out the romanised names sometimes… Anywho, here you go.
Author: karkiat
Something extra
Hey guys! I got kinda bored of translating the same thing over and over, so I wanted to do something else, something a bit more fun. So far I’ve only translated the prologue, but I think you guys will like it, so…please check it out!
GSB Chapter 8
x_x. I was pretty tired when I did this, so I can’t guarantee the quality. I’ll go edit this when I have time like what I did with the previous chapters…
Chapter 8: The Three Big Advanced Genetics Institutes
Two minutes after Lin Feng had left.
“Jackpot! Brother Long, there’s two dead bodies over here!”
“Fuck your mom, feeling lucky from seeing a corpse. I was just about to hit the casino too, how fucking unlucky.”
“N-no, Brother Long, these two dead bodies have the rumoured elemental battle suits!”
“Fuck! For real?!”
……
By now, Lin Feng had left that area long ago.
Avarice hoards itself poor.[1] With regards to elemental battle suits, Lin Feng didn’t give them too much thought. He had a grave expression on his face as he sped through a magnificent, fantasy-like metallic forest; he understood very well what the matters today signified. If his strength was just a bit weaker, the ones dead today would not have been Monkey or Lewd Snake—but himself.
“Strength, it’s the basis of everything.”
“Without strength, there is no status. In this world you would only become meat on the chopping board.”
Images of everything he saw today in the Plaza appeared in Lin Feng’s mind; he was finding it very hard to be relieved.
If hypothetically, the events that happened today were to relate to him, and the ones being bullied and humiliated…were his mother and sister, then what?
Thinking up to here, Lin Feng felt a gripping pain in his heart.
“I must become strong like my brother!” Lin Feng bit down on his teeth tightly as the fingernails from his tightly clenched fist dug deeply into his palms.
※※※
After returning home, Lin Feng directly entered into the training room.
Pass the examination to become a Security Guard!
Currently, Lin Feng was very clear about his goal. Being admitted into the Security Guards wasn’t difficult for Lin Feng. The Security Guards belonged to the City Guards Reserve system and had a strict divisions of rank: ordinary police constables, senior police constables, police chief, district police chief, etc. Besides experience, strength was the most important factor in raising your rank in the Guards.
As your rank increases, so too does your benefits and your status.
This point was very crucial.
“Become a police chief in three months, and get promoted to district police chief in nine months.”
“The monthly salary for a district police chief is 10 silver coins. If I take some requests regularly and join a small adventure group to hunt in the Wilderness, then I’d be able to guarantee that my sister would be able to cultivate at the most optimal pace to increase her brain region depth.” Lin Feng secretly thought.
Although he really wanted to enter a sect, enlisting into the Guards wasn’t that bad of a choice.
“After I become a Security Guard, I won’t have as much time to cultivate.” Lin Feng sat cross-legged and took a deep breath to regulate his mental state, “I have to make the most of these last two months and increase my brain region depth.” Thinking quietly in his mind, Lin Feng very quickly entered into a meditative state. As he began to operate the《Nine Dragon Sutra》, Heaven and Earth energy that was as dense as clouds quickly gathered converged once again.
…
Within the Blazing Sun District, there was a luxurious villa, surrounded by a garden and a beautiful scenery.
“Young master.” An old man in a butler’s clothing was bowing his head.
“Uncle Wang, were you able to investigate anything?” Shi Wenlong was lying down, eyes closed, on a massage table with his upper body bare. On the left and right of him were two girls who looked exactly the same, massaging him with great care. There was a hint of alcoholic fragrance drifting in the air.
“Reporting to young master, the Security District’s preliminary investigation identified it as a robbery.” Uncle Wang replied respectfully.
“Robbery?” Shi Wenlong opened his eyes, full of suspicion.
“Yes. Via the codes from the elemental battle suits that young master provided, the Security Guards followed the clues and managed to catch a small gang led by some man nicknamed ‘Brother Long’. They suspect that they had knocked down the hovercar to commit their robbery. Cases like this happens frequently in the Commoner District, there are always people willing to take such risks out of desperation.” said Uncle Wang with a hoarse voice.
“Really now?” Shi Wenlong laughed coldly as he looked towards Uncle Wang, “How do you see it?”
“In this servant’s humble opinion, there are too many doubtful points in this case. It might be more appropriate to classify it as a revenge murder case. Too bad the Security Guard’s actions have always been dictated by the evidence. Thus, it can only be considered the bad luck of ‘Brother Long’ and that little gang of his,” Uncle Wang said slowly, “And, according to what young master had said, it is extremely probably that…this was done by Lin Feng and Yang Li.”
“It should be Yang Li.” A sharp glint flitted across Shi Wenlong’s eyes, “Lin Feng is nothing more than a cripple currently.”
With a hoarse voice, Uncle Wang replied, “According to what was displayed from the computer’s data, Yang Li certainly has this amount of power. However, their actions were too clean. Even the watches were destroyed, leaving no evidence to be found.”
“Hmph!” Shi Wenlong sneered, “How smart.”
After hesitating a bit, Uncle Wang opened his mouth and said, “Because the two deceased are students, this case has garnered the attention of the Institute and they have begun to investigate. In light of this, as a bit of reassurance, I hope that the young master will stay at home during this period of time in order to avoid getting caught up in this dispute, and risk affecting your graduation two months from now.”
Shi Wenlong had a chilly look on his face as he opened his eyes wide, “Let them off this easily after killing my men? How would I be able to show my face from now on?”
“The master has attached great importance to the young master’s graduation. So, I hope that the young master does not treat this lightly; please do not disappoint the master.” Uncle Wang said with a low voice, “This servant has already looked over the information and data regarding Lin Feng; there is no rush to deal with him. You only have to wait two months time for him to leave the institute, and when the time comes—to kill or to cut—the young master can decide it all with just one word, no?”
Shi Wenlong’s eyebrows lightly perked after listening and he nodded his head in satisfaction.
His words had merit. Killing a commoner was much simpler than killing a student, and much safer too.
“Alright, I’ll do as you say, Uncle Wang.” Shi Wenlong laughed coldly and closed his eyes as he continued to enjoy the pleasurable feeling from his massage, “I’ll let that brat, Lin Feng, live for an extra two months.”
“When the time comes…I’ll take my time in dealing with him.
…
…
Autumn turned to winter, and with this transition, came the fact that graduation was one step closer.
On December 1st, Lin Feng gifted his final bottle of genetic fluid to Yang Li and immediately returned to his training room to continue his closed-door training. Lin Feng was very clear that his starting point already lagged much behind other people; the him, who had only started to cultivate as an ancient martial artist at the age of 17, must recover this lost time. Hence, he must try ten times harder, a hundred time harder than other people.
With a firm belief and astonishing willpower, Lin Feng advanced towards his goal unceasingly.
“I must become an ancient martial artist as quick as possible!” This was Lin Feng’s only thought. Right now, he desperately wished that he could use one hour as if it were ten hours worth of time.
As for the graduation exam on January 1st, Lin Feng basically didn’t care.
That was specially arranged for the Institute’s outstanding talents. He was once one of them, but the him right now…was not.
…
Two months time passed by very quickly.
Fireworks were being set off at Blazing Sun’s Martial Plaza, as countless people shouted out the New Year’s countdown in chorus. On an enormous fluorescent curtain of light, bright and colourful animations were being broadcasting. The great wheel of time had officially shifted from Warring Era, 101st year, to Warring Era, 102nd year.
January 1st, the first day of the new year.
“This will be the last time.” Lin Feng walked along the Institute’s gravel road as he stared at all the strange and dazzling school buildings all around him. The Magnetic Levitation Fort. The Capsule Room. There was a glimmer flickering in his eyes, the rest is all memory now. Today was the last day he would enter this place with the identity as a student; six years had quickly flown by here. This place…had too many memories.
From an ignorant little boy, he grew up to what he is today.
There was bitterness, but also happiness; there was joy, but also sorrow.
“10th ranked genius?” Lin Feng smiled calmly. Even now he could hear all kinds of idle gossip from around him, and all kinds of different looks. Yet, his mind remained as tranquil as water. After having recovered from the heavy blow he suffered one year ago, how could he possibly care about what others had to think.
“Three months of cultivating as an ancient martial artist went by pretty smoothly. Only, a bit of a hurdle came up in the later stage. I’m not sure whether my brain region depth increased, and by how much?”
“5.3%? 5.4%? Or perhaps…a bit higher?”
Lin Feng laughed and stepped onto the magnetic floating stairs in front of him.
According to the calculations from the cultivation he had done in the past, on average, brain region depth increases by about 1.1% to 1.2% each year. Naturally, cultivating is a bit faster for those who have just started; however, ancient martial artists cultivated at much lower speeds than that of which genetic warriors cultivate at. Although these three months he used the amount of time he had to the limit, nevertheless, he could still not match up to even half the efficiency that absorbing genetic fluid gave.
“It’s okay, as long as there’s improvement then it’s fine.”
“Even if it’s only 5.01%.”
Lin Feng walked up, one step at a time; his mind was very relaxed and at ease.
Only students who applied for the Three Big Advanced Genetic Institutes would attach importance to the graduation exam. To Lin Feng, it was actually quite simple. All he had to do was go through a series of procedures, complete the testing, along with enduring the final bit of ridicule, and finally…like the majority of the students, enlist into the Blazing Sun District Security Guards. Security Guards don’t take into consideration your brain region depth, but rather, your actual combat capabilities.
With regards to his own combat capability, Lin Feng still had complete confidence.
“At last.” Lin Feng’s eyes lit up. At the end of the magnetic floating stairs was a half-oval shaped stronghold that was kept afloat in mid-air through magnetism; constructed from lustrous metal frames along with reinforced glass, it was like an enormous fortress. This was the fruit of modern technology—floating high in the sky, steady as Mt. Tai.
Brain Region Depth Testing Centre.
“Di~~” Following a scan of his palm print, Lin Feng’s identity was confirmed.
Palm print was more complex than fingerprints, and more accurate.
“Oh, a lot of people.” Lin Feng’s view suddenly lit up. There were tightly packed crowds of people as far as the eye could see. Every year at this time, he would see the other students graduate. This year, it was finally his turn. And at this point, the liveliest area inside the Testing Centre was no doubt the two ‘VIP platforms’ on the left and the right.
Every year, only on the day of January 1st would the two VIP guests show up.
“Sunset City Genetics Institute.” Lin Feng’s gaze swept across the VIP platform on the right side, and finally settled on the VIP platform on the left side. Seated there was an arrogant-looking instructor from Crown Elite Institute, with arms were crossed on his chest. His cold countenance compared to the expression from Sunset City Genetics Institute’s instructor was a stark contrast.
Within the Three Big Advanced Genetics Institutes at Sunset City, the top rank does in fact belong to Crown Elite Institute; but in reality, for the past few years, Sunset City Genetics Institute has been hot on their heels, and the difference was becoming smaller and smaller.
The competition between the two big advanced genetics institutes was quite fierce, and naturally, this included the fight for talented people.
“Ah Feng!” A loud and cheerful voice travelled over, which caused Lin Feng to smile wryly
Yang Li’s big voice instantly attracted everyone’s gazes. However, he wasn’t conscious of this in the least, and was just waving his hands energetically.
Laughing helplessly, Lin Feng immediately walked over.
“Look, it’s that Lin Feng!”
“Really? He actually came to test? He didn’t find last time humiliating enough?
“You idiot. Today is the graduating test, how could he not come? Even if his brain region depth degenerated and his genes suffered damage, only we know that, others don’t know. When the time comes he could at least take his graduation certificate to scrape a living somewhere by fooling people. It’s still better than being an ancient martial artist that can’t even breakthrough the limit, right?”
“Once a well and proper genius, what a shame.”
……
“A bunch of busybodies!” Yang Li glared at the surrounding students angrily.
“We can’t stop the mouths that grow on other people’s bodies, just leave them be.” Lin Feng laughed casually.
Yang Li snorted his nose, “They can only feel superior now. Wait until they leave the Institute. Hmph. A life of being a Security Guard awaits them.”
With a six year career at the Institute, whether they were dragons or snakes, it was clear to see. Those with potential and aptitude would not be overlooked. Like with Xiao Shiyuan. Even though his family is impoverished, he could still distinguish himself from the others; like with Yang Li, he still had hope to take some risks in the future; however, a majority of the students’ lives were pretty much just like that, being able to become a genetic warrior was already their limit.
“And you?” Lin Feng lightly laughed, “Did your brain region depth breakthrough 9%?”
“No problem!” Yang Li patted his chest, full of confidence, “If I can’t reach a brain region depth of 2nd rank even like this, then I’d be extremely unworthy of the three bottles of genetic fluid you sponsored me with, Ah Feng.”
“That’s good then.” Lin Feng’s gaze fell on the two VIP platforms which were currently jam-packed with people. Most notably, there were especially a lot by the side of Sunset City Genetic Institute’s instructor, where many students were making inquiries, and among them was a familiar figure—Shi Wenlong. The him, who was normally filled with overweening arrogance, was presently putting on a flattering smile like his two lackeys.
“Not going to attempt to curry favour?” asked Lin Feng.
“At most my brain region depth just barely reaches 2nd rank, how could they take a liking to me.” Yang Li said casually, “Pops always taught me that it’s important to know one’s limitations. What’s the point of waving my tail around like a dog, and begging for pity? After the graduation test concludes, I’ll go and apply to the War Institute.”
The War Institute.
Of the Three Big Advanced Genetics Institutes, it ranked last.
Every year, Crown Elite Institute and Sunset City Institute would fight for the good saplings with 1st ranked brain region depths. After that, they’d choose the best 2nd ranked brain region depth students to recruit. The students with 2nd ranked brain region depth that were unselected would then go and apply to the War Institute, and go through a rigorous selection. This was basically the convention,
“Have confidence?” asked Lin Feng.
“Nope.” Yang Li suddenly became like a deflated balloon, his face full of worry, “There’s a total of 60 districts in Sunset City, and adding on top the students from Sunset City, every year the there are up to 400 plus applicants to the War Institute, while they only accept 100. There’s an 80% fail rate, 80%!”
His head was shaking incessantly as he talked. Indeed, Yang Li’s confidence was severely lacking.
Lin Feng knew about the apprehensions that Yang Li had, and didn’t blame him for it. In the Blazing Sun District, Yang Li just barely qualified for the application; he was more or less the bottom of the barrel. Not to mention all the students applying to the War Institute from within the entire Sunset City. 400 plus people and only taking 100 people, this 80% fail rate was truly quite cruel.
However, it is all matter of your own effort.
“Three Big Advanced Genetics Institutes…” Lin Feng’s eyes flickered, a bit of longing appeared in his heart. If he could get into one of them, not only would he be able to receive the guidance of an instructor, but even more, he would receive endless resources and the best cultivation environment. Even the most basic benefit provides two bottles of genetic fluids each month, the treatment was extremely good.
Yet, just like ‘flower seen in the mirror, moon on the water’s surface’[2], this was not something he could grasp—a beautiful, but unattainable dream. It no longer had any connection with himself.
The flickering in Lin Feng’s eyes became radiant light that passed by in a flash, and a relieved smile once appeared.
I, already put it all down a long time ago.
Just at that time, the entrance to the Testing Centre opened up once again, instantly giving rise to cries of surprise. Lin Feng looked over and stopped to see an impressive-looking middle-aged man who had a bit of white hair on the two sides of his head, and a body of steel-like muscles that could make people cower in fear. As he strode forth with his head held high, clad in a bronze-coloured genetic armour which exuded an air of dominance, an imposing aura befitting that of the powerful surged forth, giving others the feeling that they were in the presence of a lion.
“President Shi!” Standing firmly, Lin Feng felt a chill in his heart, a look of visible respect and reverence could be see on his face.
President Shi Shi.[3] He was the legend and pride of the Blazing Sun District. Moreover, he was the expert that the students talked about the most regularly, and admired the most.
He instantly became the focal point upon his appearance. The originally noisy Testing Centre became so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. Furthermore, even the arrogant instructor from Crown Elite Institute was currently standing up in respect. From behind President Shi, there was Yin Rushuang, Li Mang and the other seven instructors, accompanied with dozens of drillmasters following behind, forming an enormous line up.
“President Shi.” Both the instructors from Crown Elite Institute and Sunset City Institute saluted with respect.
“En.” Making a casual sound as a reply, Shi Shi, with the gait of a lion king, passed through the middle of the two people with large strides, in a disdainful and domineering manner.
His appearance signified that this year’s Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute’s graduation exam had officially … begun.
[1] A German proverb that seemed to match pretty well with the original text. The proverb goes on to say, “Charity gives itself rich”
[2] Here.
[3] Yeah, the pinyin for his surname and given name is “Shi”. His name translated literally means Stone/Rock Lion. This whole lion metaphor he has going on plays out in his name too.
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GSB Chapter 7
Felt kinda bad for leaving a cliffhanger.
Chapter 7: Want to Go Somewhere?
Faraway, on the rooftop of an apartment.
“Heh, that Xiao Shiyuan isn’t too stupid, at least he knows he should strike when Lin Feng is alone.” Lewd Snake leaned on a railing as he laughed comfortably.
“This isn’t called stupid? If it were me, I’d have ambushed him long ago.” With his arms crossed on his chest, Monkey said with a snort.
Lewd Snake sneered, “He’s the strongest at our Institute, obviously he has to act in a manner befitting his strength.”
“So what if he’s the strongest,” said Monkey as he laughed coldly, full of disdain, “he still has to obediently listen to us.”
Lewd Snake rubbed his palms with a vulgar look on his face, “Once this guy gets rid of Lin Feng and then that mutt, Yang Li…hehe, Wang Qian will be ours. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. Don’t be fooled by that pure innocent look she has on usually, she’s pretty wild in bed!”
Monkey shook his head speechlessly, then mockingly said, “You sure are addicted to peeping.”
Lewd Snake snickered. Suddenly his beady eyes lit up and he shouted in a hurry, “Look, it’s starting!”
…
Lightsabre versus lightning rod!
The Institute’s former number one genius against the Institute’s current strongest!
Xiao Shiyuan took the advantage of attacking first; 500 volts of electricity accompanied with layers upon layers of the rod’s afterimages. In an instant, it looked as if countless electric snakes with red tongues flicking were heading straight for him. Brain region depth: 9.80%, Xiao Shiyuan’s reputation was justified. Just by merely reaching 2nd rank in the realm of rod arts, he was unstoppable at the Institute.
However…
This time, his opponent was Lin Feng, who had already reached the 2nd rank in the realm of blade arts three years ago.
“D8 Neo-Martial Arts: Sunset Lightblade, 20%.” Lin Feng suddenly took a step forward. Compared to the stern look on Xiao Shiyuan’s face, this strike was concise, direct, and natural. The lightsabre slashed down from the right with a perfectly straight streak, it was almost as if the entire space could be sliced into two right angled triangles.
In a split second, all the images of Xiao Shiyuan’s rod disappeared. Despite the fact that the energy from the lightning rod was not inferior to that of the white lightsabre, Xiao Shiyuan still instantly fell behind from that collision.
“How can that be?!” Having been forced back in one move, Xiao Shiyuan was bewildered. The two hands gripping the lightning rod trembled slightly.
That was practically one of his strongest attacks, and on top of that, he held the advantage of a preemptive strike. Yet, let alone gain an advantage… On the contrary he was suppressed by Lin Feng.
Impossible!
How could this be possible?!
It wasn’t only Xiao Shiyuan who was shocked.
The two people on the faraway rooftop who were originally calm and composed were also currently stupefied.
“W-wasn’t he suffering from genetic damage?” stammered Lewd Snake.
“How could Lin Feng still use neo-martial arts?!” Monkey was dumbstruck and his face was deathly pale.
……
Genetic damage?
That was all unfounded rumours that was being spread outside.
Indeed, Lin Feng never denied it, but… he also never admitted it before.
There are some things that don’t warrant an explanation.
“Zheng!” The brightness of the lightsabre increased further. Lin Feng’s calm face became a bit more serious. He took one step and leapt, just like a vigourous cheetah; the burst of speed surprised even Lin Feng. His arms vibrated and in an instant, from the lightsabre a cross-shaped blade of light was formed.
“Sunset Lightblade, 50%!” Lin Feng’s eyes flickered.
Suddenly, a gigantic ‘X’ appeared from out of the void with a bang. Xiao Shiyuan’s face became incomparably pale.
“E3 Neo-Martial Arts: Woven Iron Wall, 100%!” Xiao Shiyuan shouted as he clenched his teeth. Rays of lightning surged forth, and in quickly formed an impenetrable iron wall in front of him. From attack to defense, all of this happened in a split second. There was no need to say any more about the strength from both sides, and in the next instant——
Chi! Peng! ~ Xiao Shiyuan’s eyes bulged, and his heart seemed to have stopped beating.
The impenetrable iron wall in front instantly collapsed. There was only a dazzling, white light that was as bright as day, and a gigantic impact striking his chest.
“Pu!” The lightning rod in his hands flew out, and Xiao Shiyuan landed heavily on the ground.
Hua! A figure appeared instantly.
“Zi!” ~ The lightsabre was placed across Xiao Shiyuan’s neck. Lin Feng looked down on the youth who also born impoverished like himself. Just by applying a bit of force from the lightsabre and he would become a corpse. He, was never his enemy. It can’t be said that they had any interactions at school, but there was definitely not any enmity,
Pa! The blade of light disappeared, and the lightsabre in Lin Feng’s hand returned to its cylindrical metal shape.
“Go.” Lin Feng said emotionlessly.
Xiao Shiyuan stared blankly, his eyes were filled with struggle and remorse, and his left fist trembled.
“Sorry!” He had one hand holding onto his chest, while his right hand drooped on the side. Xiao Shiyuan lowered his head, not daring to look Lin Feng in the eye, walked unsteadily towards the lightning rod, picking it up and disappearing into the dark alleyway. Staring at the lonely, leaving figure, Lin Feng’s gaze was sharp. He sighed in his heart.
He too, was a commoner.
Yet, he was even more unfortunate than himself. His parents died early on, and his only relative was an even younger brother who was just 4 years old. It was almost time to graduate and enter into Crown Elite Institute; it was finally time he made something of himself. What could’ve forced a genius to take such a huge risk, even at the cost of his own future, to come and kill him?
Lin Feng was very clear.
Because, they were the same kind of people.
…
On the rooftop of an apartment faraway.
“He lost, Xiao Shiyuan actually lost?” Lewd Snake was completely petrified, his eyes were opened wide from the incredible shock.
“He lost, but we still haven’t!” Monkey had a sinister look in his eyes. The crystalline watch on his left hand was pointed at the distant location where Lin Feng was, and with a menacing voice he said, “As long as Lin Feng kills Xiao Shiyuan, he would violate one of the Institute’s precepts against killing fellow students. Then, once we hand this video evidence over to the institute, he’s a deadman!”
“Right, right, right!” said Lewd Snake, repeatedly, finding new hope.
“Kill! Why aren’t you killing??!!” Monkey was enraged, he wished he could help Lin Feng with that extra strike.
Lewd Snake held in his breath, his chest raising up and down quickly. But very quickly, the expression on his and Monkey’s face changed from hopeful to despair——
Because, Lin Feng had let Xiao Shiyuan go just like that.
“Damn it!” Monkey was furious and began to beat on the railings, “That spineless bastard!” A sharp glint flashed across his eyes, grinding on his teeth, Monkey said, “You won’t kill, we’ll help you kill! With this video, Lin Feng, even if you jumped into the Yellow River you wouldn’t be able to wash yourself clean![1] Prison is waiting for you!”
At that moment——
Ta! Ta! Ta! Lewd Snake’s retreated backwards with a look of shock and fear on his face. His complexion was deathly pale, like he had just seen a demon.
“What’s up with you?” Monkey was in a foul mood.
“H-he…” Lewd Snake pointed at the distant, and full of horror he said, “He looked like he saw me.”
“Who saw you?” Monkey had a look of impatience on his face, but very quickly he reacted, with his eyes opened wide he grabbed onto Lewd Snake and nervously said, “You’re saying Lin Feng saw you? With this distance, how could he possibly see us?! Ridiculous!!”
Be that as it may, Monkey’s lips still turned pale and his mind was a nervous mess. In a flurry, he activated the crystalline watch on his left hand.
“Zi~~” The light projection materialised and on the rooftop a brown hovercar appeared.
“Go!” Monkey shrieked, and directly jumped inside the hovercar. Lewd Snake seemingly awaken from a dream also quickly entered inside. The hovercar instantly turned on, but Monkey and Lewd Snake’s eyes were bulging, looking extremely aghast. In front of them was the figure they didn’t want to see the most, perfectly blocking their exit.
“Want to go somewhere?” Lin Feng said indifferently, his eye flickering with a sharp glint.
Chi! Genetic energy rushed into the metal body, and a lightsabre was formed in an instant— releasing a bright, white light, full of killing intent.
As if hearing the voice of the grim reaper, Monkey and Lewd Snake were completely at a loss.
They basically had no idea Lin Feng would come this fast, and even more, they had no idea that Lin Feng’s strength would be this horrifying. Xiao Shiyuan, known as the Institute’s strongest, actually couldn’t even block two moves from Lin Feng and completely lost.
Flee!
Lin Feng’s appearance proved that this incident has already been exposed.
Monkey clenched his teeth and made a decision on the spot, activating the hovercar, he reversed and smashed apart the railings. At this moment, there was no time to take things into consideration. Monkey had a resolute look in his eyes. In mid-air there was no leverage, as long as they can escape fast enough, Lin Feng would have no way of catching up.
But…
“D8 Neo-Martial Arts: Sunset Lightblade, 50%.” Lin Feng’s eyes flickered radiantly, and in the instant that the hovercar was activated, he had already brandished his lightsabre.
A great amount of genetic energy flowed in, the brightness of the lightsabre greatly increased. Lin Feng’s arms vibrated and in a split second, an enormous ‘X’ condensed with an astonishing amount of laser energy was formed. The hovercar was directly sliced apart, causing the magnetic energy to explode instantly.
Bang! Peng! Boom!!
The hovercar exploded into pieces in mid-air. Monkey and Lewd Snake’s mournful wailing could be heard as they suddenly fell down from 30 metres in the air.
At the same time, Lin Feng also leapt up and softly landed on some water pipes, and slowly descended them.
…
Bang! Bang!
Two loud noises, as Monkey and Lewd Snake created two large holes on a plot of grass. Although the two had elemental battle suits to protect them, but it was hard to form a complete defense within the hovercar. The remaining energy from the lightsabre, the powerful blast from the magnetic explosion, and the immense momentum from a 30 metre freefall—the three added together was not something a single elemental battle suit could resist against.
“Ta!” Lin Feng, with a burning gaze, landed gracefully.
Lewd Snake’s neck was strangely twisted, having been dead for a while now. Monkey’s body, however, was still trembling and twitching.
Chi! ~ A cold streak was left behind by the lightsabre. Lin Feng directly ended Monkey’s life. His pair of eyes were still full of hate and unwillingness, but there was no more spirit in them.
“When you cut the weeds, you have to get rid of the roots; or else there’d be no end to the troubles.” Lin Feng had always kept his brother’s instructions in mind. Bending over, he took off the watch on Monkey’s arm and activated it. Instantly, the watch emitted countless beams of lights, forming a three-dimensional projection, Lin Feng’s eyes were clear, the projection displayed the fierce battle he had with Xiao Shiyuang.
“Sure enough, it was a thorough plan.” Genetic energy flashed in Lin Feng’s left hand. ‘Pa’ The watch was directly crushed.
Peng! He brandished the lightsabre in his right hand and the watch on Lewd Snake’s left hand was also destroyed. All the evidence was eliminated. Lin Feng’s gaze fell on the two people’s elemental battle suits. Despite suffering such intense attacks, there was only a bit of damage, truly worthy of a technological product more precious than genetic fluid.
But, he couldn’t take it.
Elemental battle suits each have a unique computer code on them, so taking them would just be a headache.
“The explosion from the hovercar was too loud, I’m sure this place will be discovered very soon.” Lin Feng muttered as he looked all around. Good thing this was the Commoner District. There were no Security Guards patrolling, and definitely no surveillance satellites here. If that wasn’t the case, it would get really troublesome, but at the moment…
There was no need to be worried.
Having lived in the Commoner District since he was little, Lin Feng was far too familiar with the circumstances in the place—he understood it far too well.
Someone died?
Within the chaotic Commoner District, that isn’t even news.
Putting away the lightsabre, Lin Feng’s figure slowly disappeared into the region shrouded by darkness.
[1] Finding it hard to clear yourself of a crime.
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GSB Chapter 6
There’s a cliffhanger, sorry, not sorry.
Chapter 6: Commoner
Lin Feng and Yang Li were walking around Blazing Sun’s Martial Plaza.
Within the Blazing Sun District, this place was the biggest commerce zone for battle-related equipment, it was the heart of all transactions. From accessories and crystalline compasses, to genetic nutrient basins, elemental battle suits, and even Elemental Cores. It was possible to buy it all here. Naturally, the quality compared to Sunset City was much poorer, but to regular ancient martial artists and genetic warriors it was good enough.
“Ah Feng…You aren’t actually looking to buy an elemental battle suit, are you?” Yang Li said nervously as he looked towards Lin Feng.
Turning his head, Lin Feng saw the serious look on Yang Li’s face and burst into laughter, “You have that much money?”
Yang Li shook his head side-to-side like a rattle drum and said with a bitter face, “If I had that much money, I would’ve bought genetic fluids long ago.”
“Exactly.” Lin Feng laughed and said.
Sometimes this brother of his was so easily confused. It should be know that even the worst elemental battle suit was still much more expensive than genetic fluid.
“Then, Ah Feng, what did you come here to buy?” said Yang Li as he laughed foolishly.
“Ancient mind cultivation skill,” replied Lin Feng with a glint in his eyes.
“Oh.” Yang Li nodded his head, and then suddenly looked at Lin Feng with surprise, “Ah Feng, you switched to cultivating ancient martial arts, right, how could I not think of that! Ancient martial artists can breakthrough the limit too, just that their cultivation speed is a bit slower. Then… Ah Feng, you can already sense the energy of Heaven and Earth?”
“Yeah.” Lin Feng replied casually. The ways to sense the energy of Heaven and Earth could be found everywhere, there was no need to spend anything on them.
The rank of the ancient mind cultivation skill was unrelated to whether or not one could sense the energy of Heaven and Earth—all that matters is the ancient martial artists talents.
“Incredible! It’s only been a month,” Yang Li said as he clicked his tongue, “So many ancient martial artists from just the step of sensing need to spend a year on it, and some even several years.”
“I guess.” Lin Feng said with a smile. Sensing the energy of Heaven and Earth was certainly a threshold for ancient martial artists; only by crossing over can one continue to cultivate. Over 90% of ancient martial artists have to spend a lot of time just on this first bottleneck, so it wasn’t surprising that Yang Li would think that way.
He was already extremely proficient with the first layer of the《Nine Dragon Sutra》 and could use it with ease, but…
His mother warned him that unless he was forced to, he must not reveal it.
Since he has already stepped onto the path of an ancient martial artist, sooner or later, he would need to fight. Therefore, he would have to quickly solve this problem. And, the only method is——to cultivate another type of ancient mind cultivation skill, one that he could reveal to others. Perhaps he wouldn’t be able to display his true strength, but at least he would be able to use it freely.
After all, it is possible to separate fighting and cultivating.
…
Endless streams of people, all sorts of stores, all kinds of bars, gaming centres, women and men talking cheerfully—together created a lively atmosphere in the Plaza. No matter how advanced technology gets, consumer demand would always exist.
Lin Feng scanned the small vendor booths outside one after another. The things for sale here were a mess, and quality was even harder to ensure. However, there was one benefit, and that was the price. It was more cheaper than the products sold at regular stores by around 20%-30%. To Lin Feng, every little bit counts.
After all, besides the money left behind by his big brother, there was only meagre amount his mother earned from knitting.
It was still possible to get by with the tiny amount saved, but they were strapped for cash when it came to buying things.
“What’s wrong, Ah Li?” asked Lin Feng as he saw Yang Li looking around everywhere.
Yang Li knitted his eyebrows, looked around in all directions and whispered, “I keep feeling like someone is staring at me.”
A glimmer flashed across Lin Feng’s eyes. Laughing casually, he said, “How come I don’t feel it? It must be your delusions, this place is so crowded, sometimes recognising a stranger isn’t too uncommon.”
“That’s true.” Yang Li mumbled as he nodded his head. Suddenly, he said with a pout, “Yang Li, your mind has always been meticulous, and your vigilance was always better than mine. If someone locked onto you, you’d know for sure. When we were small, that fatty Lei and his friends would always try to catch you but they never succeeded once.”
“Yeah.” replied Lin Feng, as his eyes glanced backwards to the right. Laughing lightly, he said, “Let’s go. I remember that there’s ancient mind cultivation skills up ahead.”
As he finished speaking, he continued to walk forward with Yang Li.
Ta~! Not long after the two left, a youth dressed in all black slowly walked out from the dense crowd on the right; his eyes flickered with a sharp glint. On his back was a two metre long rod which revealed black, metallic luster.
Xiao Shiyuan, 17 years old. Brain region depth: 9.80%, 1st rank.
Neo-weapon, lightning rod.
※※※
“Bang!” “Thump!” “Crack!” … a cacophony of noise.
Sounds of angry cursing; sounds of discussions; and sounds of crying converged together, reverberating in a corner of the Plaza.
Lin Feng was just in the middle of selecting an ancient mind cultivation skill, when he turned his head around due to the noise. In an instant, his gaze deepened. There were five rude and vulgar looking men. They were big and brawny, with arms as thick as their thighs. Each of them wore a grey tank-top which clearly displayed a symbol of a vulture’s head. Among them, there were two who were currently smashing up a booth, while the other three robust men were surrounding a pair of elder and youth, kicking and cursing.
Faintly, one could hear the sound of the elder and youth crying for mercy. However, the three men paid no attention to it; rather, they cursed even more maliciously, and trampled them even more vigourously.
The surrounding audience formed layers upon layers, all discussing among themselves, but not one person stepped forward to stop it.
What was this all about?
Lin Feng suddenly stood up, with a menacing look on his face.
“Stop,” Yang Li pulled on Lin Feng’s wrist and whispered, “Don’t be rash.”
Lin Feng made a fist, as he said through clenched teeth, “Even beating the elderly, they’re beasts lower than even pigs and dogs!” He was furious inside, but Lin Feng was still able to forcefully contain his rage and didn’t lose his reasoning. These types of incidents where the weak gets bullied happen much too often. Even if he took care of this incident, he wouldn’t be able to handle a hundred of them, a thousand of them. And in any case, he currently … had no qualifications to take care of it.
“As long as you don’t hand over enough protection fees, let alone the elderly, they’d beat the pregnant and children just the same,” The stall owner sighed and said, “Just a while ago, there was a pregnant woman who was beaten and had a miscarriage and almost died too.”
Yang Li wrinkled his brows, “The Security Guards don’t care?”
“How much can they care about?” The stall owner said bitterly, “The Vulture Gang is mainly the bully around these parts, just idle gangsters. As the saying goes: ‘a powerful dragon cannot crush a snake in its old haunts’.[1] The most the Security Guards can do is catch a few troublemakers. Smashing the booths is still trivial. You try not handing over your protection fees, and the next day they’ll come to your place and smash your home!”
“Mavericks.” Lin Feng could feel a fire burning in his heart.
“Ai~, who told us to be commoners.” The stall owner shook his head, carrying along a bit of dreariness and weariness.
Commoners!
Lin Feng felt his heart ache.
He was very clear on the status that commoners had. Disregarding the beating today, even if they died, it wouldn’t mean anything; it was the law of the jungle—the reality of this world. Genetic warriors had special privileges; ancient martial artists had the Ancient Martial Artist Alliance backing them up, but commoners?
They had nothing.
Simply put, they were just a wretched existence; meat on the chopping board.
“I cannot let mother and sister live like this!” A brilliant light could be seen in Lin Feng’s eyes. He bit down on his teeth tightly. Commoners with no status or power were just like ants in this world—free to step on. Currently his mother and sister were still able to receive the Institute’s protection, but after two months…
“Once I graduate, I’ll apply for the Blazing Sun District Security Guards.” Lin Feng nodded his head as he made a firm resolution.
Despite his brain region depth deteriorating, his strength did not weaken. Becoming a Blazing Sun District Security Guard shouldn’t be hard.
Perhaps the amount of trivial matters that the Security Guards have to deal with regularly is excessive, but as long as his mother and sister could be safe, would a bit of sacrifice be such a big deal?
“First enter the Security District, then become an ancient martial artist as quickly as possible.”
“And then become a City Guard.”
Lin Feng said quietly to himself.
He already had a clear plan for the future.
Sure, a sect would be nice, but at the moment it was more realistic to become a Security Guard and City Guard.
…
The disturbance quickly ended, and before the City Guards hurried over, the five burly men from the Vulture Gang had already left. The elder and the youth who were beaten had significant injuries, but their lives were not in any danger. After all, the Vulture Gang weren’t stupid. Killing people brought them no benefits, since their main goal was only money in the end.
“After being beaten half to death, they still have to thank them for being merciful.” Yang Li shook his head in a dumbfounded manner.
“To survive, there’s no choice but to bow your head.” Lin Feng said with a heavy tone.
“Reality sure is cruel!” Said Yang Li, his voice full of lament.
“Sometimes there are certain things where even if you don’t want to do, there would be an invisible hand that forces you to do it in the end.” Lin Feng’s eyes flickered, as he slowly replied. He didn’t lose his cool, nor did he lose the righteousness in his heart. If it were the him from a year ago, he would definitely have not been able to withstand it, but the current him has truly matured.
That one year to Lin Feng was extremely valuable.
“We’ll split up here, Ah Li.” Lin Feng waved around the three books in his hand and smiled, “Thanks.” He purchased a 9th tier ancient mind cultivation skill book, a 7th tier blade skill book, and an 8th tier qi skill book. Yang Li fought to pay for all of them, but Lin Feng didn’t put up a fuss about it and simply let him do as he pleased.
One mind cultivation skill book, and two battle skill books.
Even though the quality of the two battle skill books were better than the mind cultivation skill book by at least one tier, their overall price was still a bit lower than the price of the latter.
The rarer something is, the greater its value. Besides, to ancient martial artists, mind cultivation skills were much more important than battle skills.
“170 copper coins, all together it’s still less than 2 silver coins. No big deal.” Yang Li replied with gusto. Indeed, the price wasn’t even one-fifth of the price of a bottle of genetic fluid, but Lin Feng knew that the amount was almost half of Yang Li’s savings. Originally, he only wanted to buy a single mind cultivation skill book, but Yang Li was being willful and stubbornly added in two battle skill books. If he didn’t put a stop to it, perhaps he would’ve spent even more.
“I’m heading off, my good brother!” With a deep look in his eyes, Yang Li beat his chest with his right hand, “It’s in the heart.”
As he finished speaking, he pressed down on the crystalline watch on his left hand and a light projection slowly materialised. Yang Li leapt onto a black hovercar and left. Lin Feng stared at Yang Li’s leaving figure, a warm feeling once again rising in his heart. Perhaps, Yang Li wasn’t good with his words, but he was a true bosom friend.
Ah Li was not like him. This time, with enough genetic fluid, he would be fully capable in raising his brain region depth to the 2nd rank. He would have a good chance of entering into one of the Three Big Advanced Genetics Institutes.
His future prospects were bright.
Therefore, there were some things that he didn’t want him mixed up in.
Shua! A cold glint flitted across Lin Feng’s eyes, and without turning his head, he emotionlessly said, “Come out.”
Lin Feng’s voice fell deeply and a black figure slowly appeared from a dark part of the alley behind him. Wearing a plain, black outfit, the figure looked looked as firm and indomitable as his weather-beaten face. On his back was a lightning rod that was almost two metres long, emitting a black, metallic luster. All of this made the dark atmosphere even more eerie.
Lin Feng turned his body around; his right hand already holding onto a twenty centimetre long cylinder made from metallic alloy.
“Zi~~~” Following the flow of genetic energy, the cylindrical metal object bursted out with bright, white light. A beam of light slowly condensed into a seventy centimetre long sabre.
Neo-weapon, lightsabre!
Staring at the youth in the black outfit, Lin Feng’s gaze sharpened, “Didn’t think it would be you.”
Xiao Shiyuan. At the Institute he was once second to only himself, and currently, he was the number one genius who was the highest on the ranking of brain region depth. He practically already had half a foot inside Crown Elite Institute, and certainly before long, he would be able to fuse with an Elemental Core and become a real genetic warrior.
“Don’t blame me!” Xiao Shiyuan said through clenched teeth, as a hint of struggle could be seen his eyes. Suddenly, with a violent shout, he drew his lightning rod out and pressed down on the activation button.
Zi! An electric snake was spat out as the lightning rod carrying 500 volts headed straight for Lin Feng.
[1] Meaning the local bully/tyrant/villain can’t be suppressed even by those with great power.
GSB Chapter 5
Sorry for the long wait, guys! I’ve been rather busy for the past few weeks, and will probably continue to be busy for a while. This chapter was basically half-done for several weeks now, but I just got around to finishing it. I don’t really have an estimate as to when I’ll have Chapter 6 out, so I apologize for that. In any case, enjoy!
Chapter 5: In My Opinion, You’re the Useless One
Lin Feng entered into the classroom on the 30th floor after confirming his fingerprints.
A wide, enormous space came into view. The brightness of the metal floor was reflected into eyes and the gigantic single-layer, full-height glass panels allowed one to get a clear view of the school’s scenery. There were genetic nutrient basins neatly set-up, paired with Brain Stimulation and VR helmets; prepared for the students’ 24 hour use, whether for training or for study. Even now, there were several genetic nutrient basins tightly, closed up.
Serial number 32.
Lin Feng slowly walked towards the genetic nutrient basin belonging to him, it was a bit smaller than the one he had at home. Caressing the cold, metal surface, it was both strange and familiar. From the age of 12, he had received his education here. The super-computer had complete courses inside, which allowed one to study while they absorbed genetic fluids.
Obviously, the school had instructors as well, but there weren’t many courses.
Like the saying: “The master will initiate you, but cultivation relies on the individual.”
“Oh! What wind carried our 10th rank genius over?” A sneering voice could be heard. In an imposing manner, Shi Wenlong, dressed in a silver-coloured elemental battle suit, entered with high spirit. His arm was wrapped around Wang Qian, dressed in red, with her head drooped. Following after them were two of his lackeys.
The two lackeys immediately laughed and started whistling, all the students in the classroom turned their gaze over.
They really wanted to know, Lin Feng, with his brain region depth which had degenerated to 5% after two years, how much strength did he have left? Or perhaps… if Lin Feng’s genes really suffered damage like what the rumours said, unable to manipulate his genetic energy, and becoming a cripple.
However, they were destined to be disappointed.
Because Lin Feng simply had no reaction.
“If you have guts, then repeat what you just said!” On the contrary, it was the hot-headed Yang Li who suddenly stepped forth, like an enraged bull.
“What? Is the dog making threats with its master’s power?” Shi Wenlong sneered, and glanced over at Lin Feng with contempt. Clicking his tongue, he sighed and said, “Too bad, your master is just a spineless coward.” With that said, he pulled in Wang Qian, who was standing by his side, raised her chin and forcefully kissed her; promptly eliciting a wave of wolf-whistles in the back.
Lin Feng looked over, his mind like still water.
Glancing over at the red elemental suit that Wang Qian had on, he knew that her family’s financial circumstance would not be able to afford it.
The pure, young girl with the captivating smile from his memories has already grown up.
“Bah! Wretches![1]” Yang Li dared to get angry and dared to speak up. With a sneer, he said, “So you got some money, but in the end, you’re nothing more than a prodigal son. Seriously forgetting your past pains one the wound heals. I say, Toothless Prince, two years ago Ah Feng beat you until you were looking for your teeth all over the floor, did you forget already?”
Everyone in the surrounding was trying to suppress their laughter.
‘Toothless Prince’ was a nickname Shi Wenlong picked up two years ago in the Battle Stadium. In that battle, under everyone’s watchful eyes, got his two front teeth knocked out by Lin Feng; henceforth, earning himself that nickname. However, besides Yang Li, no one has the courage to bring up that shameful incident of Shi Wenlong.
Sure enough, Shi Wenlong’s face immediately ashened, and his eyes became enraged.
“You fucking looking to die?!” Shi Wenlong shoved Wang Qian out of the way while his eyes turned completely red. The two lackeys also shouted angrily and charged over.
Lin Feng knit his eyebrows and started to circulate genetic energy around his body.
Even though he didn’t want to cause trouble, but he would not watch his good bro get bullied for standing up for him—most importantly, if Yang Li leaves a mark on his records because of this incident, then it would be a big problem.
Suddenly——
“Stop!” An entire section of space seemed like it was frozen over by a cold, yet lovely, shout.
The originally heavy gunpowder-like smell disappeared without a trace. Lin Feng’s eyes flickered, and the genetic energy he was circulating immediately scattered. In his view was a valiant looking woman with short hair, wearing a white battle suit; her legs were long, sophisticated, and beautiful. With her appearance, she became like a bright star; the focal point of the room—instantly turning all attention onto her.
Instructor, Yin Rushuang[2]
So strong!
Lin Feng looked towards the instructor, Yin Rushuang, unable to speak. Just a moment ago, he felt a powerful oppressive force—like the feeling of getting marked by a hunter.
This was the strength of an high-ranking genetics warrior.
“What are you doing?” Yin Rushuang’s icy gaze swept over Lin Feng and finally stopped on Shi Wenlong’s body.
“N-nothing.” Shi Wenlong said with all smiles, “Just a greeting, that’s all.” Finished speaking, he gave Yang Li and Lin Feng a severe look, with a ‘wait and see’ expression on his face, and returned to his seat. His two lackeys followed after in succession, not even daring to take a glimpse at Yin Rushuang.
Are you joking? There was once a student who didn’t know good from bad and tried to flirt with Yin Rushuang, in the end…
Not only did one of his legs get crippled, but his ‘third leg’ was nearly crippled too.
…
The instructor’s prestige cannot be challenged, no one dares to be reckless.
With regards to the conflicts between students, Yin Rushuang never cared about it; it was normal for youths to be full of vigour. As long as they weren’t causing trouble within her field of vision, it was alright. Yin Rushuang took out a pass-worded case, pressed down her fingerprint and opened it up. From within, fifty bottles of genetic fluid were arranged neatly. The sparkling liquid was reflected in every student’s eyes, Lin Feng also felt his heart stir.
It truly was something that made people thirst and long for.
Lin Feng understood very well that on the market, the price of each genetic fluid was tremendous.
“According to your serial numbers, one bottle each.” Yin Rushuang said indifferently.
The students started to retrieve their genetic fluids in sequence while Yin Rushang was recording everything. Very soon, it was Lin Feng’s turn.
“Two bottles.” Yin Rushuang announced the number, the students below one after another casted over looks of envy–no one would ever think that they received too much genetic fluid. Yet, to Lin Feng, the feeling he has now was no longer the same. Before he was also like the other students, longing every month for this one day. But now…
His mind was very calm.
“I object!” The peaceful atmosphere was suddenly disrupted. Lin Feng turned his head over and his gaze met with Shi Wenlong who had risen from his seat. The latter’s mouth revealed a cold, mocking smile and said, “I believe that the Institute no longer needs to waste any more genetic fluids on some 10th ranked trash. Giving Lin Feng genetic fluid is a complete waste, he can’t use it at all!”
“You guys, am I right?” Shi Wenlong with a righteous expression on his face incited the other students.
“Absolutely!”, “That’s right!” His two lackeys parroted in chorus, which caused the other students to start discussing one after another; it did seem to have a bit of reasoning. The originally peaceful classroom suddenly became noisy. But in an instant, Yin Rushuang’s icy voice made everyone quickly calm back down.
“From what I see, you’re the useless one.” Yin Rushuang’s ice-cold gaze instantly made Shi Wenlong’s face turn red, leaving him dumbstruck—unable to sit, but also unable to stand. Lin Feng laughed, despite his voice being low, it still entered into Shi Wenlong’s ears, which made it even more unpleasant and frustrating. His handsome appearance suddenly became extremely warped.
※※※
“Fucking bitches, there’ll be a day where I make her ride beneath me. I’ll see if she’d still sound so arrogant when she’s moaning!” Shi Wenlong said with an enraged face, his teeth grinding.
“Exactly, acting all arrogant and proud, what’s so amazing?!”[3] His lackey, ‘Hou Jin’, with a wretched appearance said, full of flattery.
“I say, Monkey[4], after the Boss is finished tasting, it’ll be our turn to get lucky.” The other lackey, ‘Yin Se’, said with his eyes glittering, full of lust, while he rubbed his palms. With a look of recollection, he said, “All the girls that the Boss played with before were exceptional, just thinking about it makes my mouth water.”
“You Lewd Snake[5], got your eyes on Wang Qian?” said Monkey with a sneer.
“How could that be possible…” Lewd Snake laughed awkwardly, but his beady eyes were constantly swiveling around.
A hint of arrogance was seen from Shi Wenlong’s face as he said with disdain, “Each and every one of you are so short-sighted, and unambitious. There’s nothing special about women, if you have money you think you’d be afraid of not having women? You want Wang Qian? No problem, get rid of Lin Feng and that mutt, Yang Li. Then you can play with that girl to your heart’s content!”
Monkey and Lewd Snake’s eyes suddenly began to glimmer as they became overwhelmed with emotion.
“Boss, you for real?!” Lewd Snake’s breathing suddenly became hurried, there was even a tent pitched in his pants.
“What nonsense are you speaking, when has the Boss ever lied to us!” Monkey said with a glare.
Shi Wenlong snorted with contempt, “Good-for-nothings.” With an image of Lin Feng’s figure emerging, a glimmer flashed in his eyes. A blue vein bulged on his forehead, making him look especially sinister. For him, there was nothing currently that would make him more delighted than getting rid of Lin Feng!
…
At that moment, Lin Feng was walking along the road with Yang Li.
“Haha, that was truly satisfying!” Yang Li laughed happily, while holding onto his stomach, “Ah Feng, did you see Shi Wenlong’s expression? He was as red as an apple, I died of laughter. Instructor Yin sure is cruel. Just one phrase was enough to make Shi Wenlong, that brat, wish he was dead.”
“Right.” Lin Feng softly sighed.
Instructor Yin was an advanced genetic warrior. Moreover, she had the Institute’s backing. Even if Shi Wenlong has money, would he dare to provoke her?
But himself?
At the Institute, no matter if he has the identity as a “student” to shield himself, in two months he would have to leave the Institute. At that time, he would no longer have that protective umbrella. Raising his brain region depth from 5% to 10% can’t be done in one step. Even his big brother had to spend as much as three years.
And cultivating as an ancient martial artist, the speed would be even slower.
In order to enter the City Guards or a sect, it would at least be a couple of years later.[6]
“Perhaps, I should enter the Blazing Sun District Security Guards.” Lin Feng pondered.
Many students who graduate from Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute would choose to become a Security Guard. After all, it was safe and had its benefits. Most of all, it was close-by.
“But, nevertheless, that Shi Wenlong does have good life.” Yang Li said with a pout, “Messing around the whole day, picking up girls and playing games, but still attaining a 2nd ranked brain region depth by relying on his family wealth. He could very likely enter into one of the Three Big Advanced Genetic Institutes; even if he can’t, becoming a genetic warrior is a sure thing. After fusing with even just a D rank Elemental Core, his strength would still leave me in the dust.”
His words carried a bit of loneliness. Lin Feng looked over, but how could he know what Yang Li’s heart was thinking.
Yang Li was not envious, but in his heart he had some frustrations pent up. Even though his talent and hard work exceeded Shi Wenlong, his strength still couldn’t compare.
“Do you still remember what I said to you a month ago, Ah Li?” said Lin Feng as he smiled and took out two bottles of genetic fluid and handed them over, “Don’t give up. There’s still two months before graduation. Give it your best effort. In my heart, you’re a hundred times stronger than Shi Wenlong.”
His pair of eyes opened wide, Yang Li suddenly reacted, “Unacceptable, Ah Feng! How could I take your…”
“Take it.” Lin Feng directly cut off Yang Li’s words and tossed the two bottles of genetic fluids over. The startled Yang Li caught them while flustering. Staring at his best friend, Lin Feng gently said, “Genetic fluid at my place right now is just decoration. Might as well make the best use of it. In the future when you’re capable, it wouldn’t be too late to return it to me then.”
Holding onto the two bottles of genetic fluid, Yang Li’s face was flushed with emotion as he stared at Lin Feng, unable to speak.
“Alright, as a man don’t act so sentimental.” Lin Feng turned his heard around and his gaze fell on that far away classroom. Patting the misty-eyed Yang Li, he smiled and said, “Let’s go, accompany me to Blazing Sun’s Martial Plaza.”
“No problem, today everything you buy is on me!”
“Really? I was just missing an elemental battle suit.”
“Ah?”
……
The figures of the two people slowly disappeared from the Institute.
From behind the single-layered, full-height glass panels, two pairs of sinister-looking eyes peered out.
……
[1] He actually calls them out for being a cheating couple, but I’m not sure how to make that sound/flow better in English, so I’m going with “wretches”. But, I’m just letting you guys know.
[2] Ru Shuang = Like frost; the character has a cold attitude, so maybe it’s in the name.
[3] In the original dialogue, he says “拽的跟二五八万似的”, which I translated to “proud and arrogant”. It’s actually a reference to mahjong, where people would act proud if they have a certain tile or something. I don’t actually play mahjong so I had a bit of trouble understanding it, but the idea is basically arrogance/pride.
[4] Hou Jin sounds like Hou Jing, which essentially means a ‘monkey demon [or spirit]’, think Sun Wukong
[5] Yin Se –> Yin She. Literally Lewd Snake, it sounds weird but the author doesn’t like using his proper name)
[6] As of now, we aren’t really told the structure of the city guards yet. I’m thinking it’s just some paramilitary group. As in, they function similar to professional army, but aren’t actually a formal army of the state.
GSB Chapter 4
Yeah, yeah. I know I said I wasn’t going to translate until the weekend… To be honest, I just didn’t want to study. There’s nothing fun about studying topology, okay?! Anyways, this was a pretty short chapter so that’s mainly why I bothered to translate it. I think I spent more time researching about idioms and whatnot than actually translating. This chapter is pretty much more world building and adding even more mysteries into the mix…
Enjoy!
__________________________________
Chapter 4: Body’s Secret
“Hm?” Ji Yuhua, who was in the living room, put the book in her hands down and gazed towards the training room with her deep eyes in slight shock.
“Two hours and twenty-five minutes.” She muttered softly, with a smile of satisfaction emerging onto her picturesque face, “Thirty-five minutes faster than expected. Descendants of my Ji[1] clan who can complete the first layer《Nine Dragon Sutra》in two hours can be considered a rare talent; those who can finish it in one hour can be considered geniuses.”
“In comparison to the exceptionally talented members of the Ji clan from the previous generations, Feng-er’s aptitude isn’t inferior at all.”
Motherly affection could be seen in Ji Yuhua’s beautiful eyes, “Your hard work will not go to waste, my child. I believe you’ve already discovered your body’s secret; it’s one of the reasons for your brain region depth’s degeneration. Its existence is not to bring you suffering; rather, it will become your weapon. With it, your journey on the path to become an ancient martial artist will become much faster, and you will be able to reach much further.”
“The fragrance of the plum blossom comes from the bitterness of the cold.”[2] Ji Yuhua picked up her book and smiled faintly.
.…
Training room.
With the naked eye it wasn’t visible, but if one used their mind to sense it, it would be clearly visible to the mind’s eye. At this moment, Lin Feng was like an enormous, awakened dragon, greedily absorbing all of Heaven and Earth’s energy. The rich energy converged from all directions, rushing into Lin Feng’s body at an extremely fast pace.
Absorbing Heaven and Earth’s energy!
This was the cultivation method of ancient martial artists.
With the mind as the source, communicate with Heaven and Earth to strength the body. The higher the grade the mind cultivation skill is, the more difficult to comprehend—but at the same time, the more results from cultivation.
“What is this?” With the first layer successfully understood, Lin Feng was presently curious and bewildered. Accompanying the endless energy from Heaven and Earth rushing into his dantian, Lin Feng suddenly found something strange inside his dantian. Using Inner Sight, he could clearly see that in the centre of his dantian, there was unexpectedly a strange “small sphere”.
In comparison to the dantian, this small sphere didn’t even reach ten-thousandth of its size; yet, it was extremely special.
It seemed like it had a life of its own as it was revolving on itself, in fact…
It possessed a distinct aura of energy.
So strong!
“Even stronger than the aura from Heaven and Earth’s energy.” Lin Feng shivered slightly. With his mind like a mirror, he viewed the small sphere seemingly absorb energy. Accompanying its revolution, an aura of energy was being seeped out from the small sphere, and slowly, it entered into his bone, his muscles, his meridians…
It functioned extremely similarly to the dantian!
It played the role of an “axis”, the dantian is also like this. Gathering external energy and converging into the dantian from all directions. Then, from the dantian, the energy is diffused into all parts of the body. Isn’t this small sphere doing the same thing? The only difference being that the type of “energy” between the two were not the same.
Wait a minute!
Lin Feng felt his heart stir.
This past year, my physical capabilities strengthened from that of an average initiate genetic warrior to that of an superior one. It couldn’t be…that it was because of its existence?
The probability is extremely high!
“Maybe, my brain region depth’s degeneration is related to it.” Lin Feng had an intuition.
Although that was what he was thinking in his mind, Lin Feng knew he had no means of dealing with the small sphere. It was completely operating independently, almost like a parasite in his body.
But, this wasn’t completely a bad thing.
“Well, thanks to that, at least my physical capabilities improved to the next level.” Lin Feng said softly.
Originally, my physical capability amongst people of my age was classified as first-rate, but now…it should be at the “peak”.
.…
Ever since he opened up the door to become an ancient martial artist, Lin Feng never took one step out of the training room.
“Ah Feng, you don’t know if you have any innate talent. But, you already possess two very precious traits: one is perseverance, and the other is the ability to try harder than anyone else.” The words of his brother, Lin Zhan, were deeply engraved in his heart. Lin Feng had always done just that. Even when he was at rock-bottom, he still persevered,
November 1st. Still two months before graduation.
“Hua~” The training room’s door opened and Lin Feng stepped out.
The classes for Blazing Sun’s Primary Genetics Institute were rather liberal, students were not required to attend. However, the first of each month was the day genetic fluids were handed out. Adding onto the bottle left from October, Lin Feng would be able to receive two bottles of genetic fluid.
“Whoosh!” Suddenly throwing a punch, a brilliant light flashed across Lin Feng’s eyes.
So fast!
Even though it was just a casual fist, but no matter the speed or power, he felt that there was a significant improvement. Looking at his right fist, Lin Feng couldn’t conceal the excitement in his mind, “It got stronger again. Didn’t expect that my physical capability that was at a bottleneck would be able to increase again.”
This was an unexpected surprise.
Lin Feng understood his own body very well. Back then, the him, who had a brain region depth nearly reaching 10%, should have already had his physical capabilities strengthened to the limit. Even if his brain region depth degenerated, his physical capabilities did not. There was no reason for it to possibly improve, the only explanation would be——
That.
“It’s the small sphere inside the dantian.” Lin Feng quietly said.
This one month, he continued to train the first layer of the《Nine Dragon Sutra》, but at the same time, he was observing the small sphere and trying to get a feel of it.
Just like his conjecture, with the strange energy seeped out from the small sphere during its rotations diffusing into all parts of his body, it did indeed provide a similar effect as the energy of Heaven of Earth——Strengthening. The strengthening of the body; the strengthening of the cells. In fact, this one month…
The small sphere got a lot bigger.
“Nearly three times, four times bigger than originally.” Lin Feng wondered to himself. Even though it still felt very small, being but a speck of sand within the dantian, it did in fact grow bigger. Along with the increase in size, not only did its speed of rotation increase, but also, it became to absorb and emit more energy.
However, to him, this small sphere’s existence was still a mystery. Moreover…he had a lingering fear.
Because, his brain region degenerated once already.
.…
Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute.
“Isn’t that the 10th rank genius?”
“Shh, be more quiet. It wouldn’t be good if he heard.”
“What a pity. I heard he was once the future star of our Blazing Sun District. Unfortunately, his genes got damaged in an accident and just like that, he fell from grace.”
.…
Walking along the Institute’s gravel path, Lin Feng stared at the novel and dazzling school buildings; the Magnetic Levitation Fort; the Capsule Room. A hint of nostalgia could be sensed in his eyes. Regarding all the idle gossip in the background and all the gazes directed at him, Lin Feng completely ignored them. Having gone through that one year, he had long chased away his inner demons.
“Still two months left.”
“Another two months and I’ll have to leave this place…”
How lamentable.
Lin Feng gazed over the school grounds, their were many twelve, thirteen year old youngsters running around full of youthful spirit. From their bodies, he felt like he could see the him from the past; running after his brother’s footsteps, slowly growing up from an ignorant youth. Very soon, he would have to leave the Institute and enter into the Wilderness and the Wastelands, battle with elemental beasts, and become a real man.
“Ah Feng!” A surprised voice came from behind him, breaking his train of thought.
He turned his head around to look. It was his good bro, Ah Li, speeding over from afar like a howling gale.
“Slow down.” Lin Feng said with a laugh.
“Haha!” Yang Li laughed candidly as he stopped and wrapped his arm around Lin Feng’s shoulders, “I finally see you, Ah Feng.”
Lin Feng laughed, “In a good mood?”
“How could that be possible,” Yang Li’s face suddenly turned sour, “Don’t even bring that up. My pops is so stingy; flattered him for half a day and he only gave me enough money to buy a small bottle of genetic fluid. Ah Feng, you tell me, how could there be such a stingy father in this world. I’m beginning to suspect if I’m even his real child…”
Listening to Yang Li’s grumblings, Lin Feng’s heart was actually stirred up.
Father…
What a luxurious word. Ever since he could remember, he had never seen his father before. He didn’t know what his name is, let alone where he is, or even if he’s alive. He once asked his mother and brother, but never got an answer.
“Pa!” Just as Yang Li was in the middle of his enthused speech, he suddenly noticed Lin Feng’s expression and quickly covered his mouth.
As Lin Feng’s best friend, he knew some of Lin Feng’s secrets.
“Ha…ha, ha.” Yang Li laughed awkwardly, quickly changing the topic, he asked with a serious face, “Right, Ah Feng, what are your plans after graduation?”
Plans?
Yang Li’s question abruptly brought Lin Feng back down to earth.
This one month, he thought a lot about his future. With the 《Nine Dragon Sutra》he no longer needed to enter the Blazing Sun Dojo, instead, he could choose one of the sects inside Sunset City. After all, no matter from the scale or development, and even challenge, sects suited him much more than dojos.
But, sects were not easy to enter.
“I still haven’t decided, my goal is to enter into a sect. But…the City Guards aren’t bad.” Lin Feng answered.
Each has its pros; entering a sect would give him a better prospects in the future, while enlisting into the City Guards was more safe and much more secure. But, no matter what, whether he enters a sect or enlists into the Guards, he must first breakthrough the limit and become an ancient martial artist.
“Ambitious!” Yang Li’s eyes lit up, “When the time comes, us brothers will form a tiny adventure group and explore the Desolate Lands!”
“You don’t want to live?” Lin Feng laughed cheerfully.
“There’s only a bowl-sized scar even if I lose my head, nothing to be a afraid of!”[3]
[1] The “Ji-姬” family/clan that she mentions here is not the same “Ji-纪” as her name. I speculate that she is hiding under a pseudonym.
[2] This comes from a poem written during the Tang Dynasty by Huangbo, a Zen Buddhist monk. The gist of it is: there can be no results without going through challenges.
[3] He’s basically saying, even if he gets decapitated, at most there’s just a bowl-sized scar. Which I guess is true? The size of your neck is probably around the size of a bowl… In any case, he’s just saying he’s not afraid and it’s no big deal.
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GSB Chapter 3
Alrighty, chapter 3. Now then, since some things became a bit more clear this chapter, I made some slight edits to chapters 1 and 2. Chapter 1 was super minor, just the dialogue of the VP, not very important. With regards to chapter 2, I changed the description of cultivation to make this chapters and how the skills are ranked as well.
P.S. Please do let me know what you guys think about that “Heaven and Earth energy” –> “energy of the universe” thing that comes later on in the chapter. The same words come up in Desolate Era that RXW is translating, I think he uses “natural energy” or something like that? Not too sure, I only checked some initial chapters to get a feel.
Oh, and I probably won’t be translating until next weekend if I do. Have midterms to write and placements to do. But in any case, enjoy!
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Chapter 3: Titanium Core
After his fingerprint was confirmed, Lin Feng entered the training room.
It was a room of 50 square feet. The only things insider was a standard sized genetic nutrients basin, paired up with a simple VR helmet. There was a faint glimmer in his eyes. All sorts of memories were coming back to Lin Feng. These six years, he had spent the majority of his time in here.
Absorbing genetic energy, increasing brain region depth, and training his blade skills in the VR world…
His strength steadily increased; he was the envy of everyone his age. Merely 16 years old, and his brain region depth was already as high as 9.95%. Although he couldn’t compare to his brother, but in the Blazing Sun District, and even Sunset City, it was a rare feat. Even the head of the Three Big Advanced Genetic Institutes, “Crown Elite Institute”, offered him extremely favourable conditions in order to recruit him in advance.
Originally, everything was going smoothly. He was going to enter Crown Elite Institute, become a genetic warrior, train hard, and follow in his brother’s footsteps. Yet…
Because of that accident, everything changed.
Lin Feng’s eyes lit up, he stared at the genetic nutrients basin, and his tightly gripped right fist lightly trembled.
That day was no different from his regular training days. He was immersed inside the genetic nutrients basin, his body absorbing the genetic energy, while his consciousness was in the virtual space training his blade skills. But, just as his training began to get more vigorous, he suddenly felt an extremely, terrifying acute pain…
PENG! PENG! PENG! Lin Feng’s hands were on his chest, and his complexion unsightly.
Thinking back to the boring acute pain his heart felt that day, even now, he still feels a lingering and terrifying fear.
It was a pain he never experienced before, his brain felt like it was about to burst, all of his pain receptors ruptured. He had no feeling in his body; he couldn’t feel his heartbeat nor feel himself breathe…
He…fainted.
By the time he woke up, three days had already passed.
This incident, Lin Feng had always kept it hidden in his heart and never told anyone—including his mother and sister. This was because he didn’t want to make them worry. Originally, he thought it was just a random accident, but afterwards, when he entered Crown Elite Institute’s Brain Region Depth Testing Apparatus … his nightmare broke out.
7.50!
This was no more than a brain region depth of 6th rank!
That instant, everyone was stupefied, including himself and Crown Elite Institute’s vice principal who had tested him, while smiling ear-to-ear. Looking at the figure displayed on the testing apparatus, the vice principal’s expression abruptly changed, and roared, “WHAT KINDA JOKE IS THIS?!”
That look of rage and contempt was like a sharp sword that ruthlessly stabbed into my heart, a pain that made him wish he was dead.
6th rank and 1st rank, this was a difference between Heaven and Earth!
However, this wasn’t the end of it, his nightmare was just beginning…
His brain region depth started to degenerate bit by bit, no matter how he trained, he couldn’t keep up with the degeneration rate. That feeling, it was almost like his life-force was leaving him; like death was approaching him, and he had no way to stop it. It’s said that ‘blessings don’t come in pairs’ and ‘misery doesn’t come singly’, it was at that time … he received the grievous news of his brother’s disappearance—this made him completely fall apart.
…
“Hu~~” Lin Feng let out a deep breath and relaxed his tightly clenched right fist. His palm was full of sweat.
It was a nightmare he couldn’t bare to recollect. The haze that persisted for an entire year, just a bit more, and he would’ve been at the point of no return…
“Why does my brain region depth degenerate?” Lin Feng looked at his two hands, baffled. This was like a big riddle that left him perplexed. He rummaged through many booked, but could not find a single answer.
“Pa!” Radiant light flashed in Lin Feng’s hands.
It looked white, yet transparent, and even resembled a metallic colour; brimming with the feeling of power.
Genetic energy!
“Genes suffered damage?” Lin Feng shook his head and directly refuted it. Even though this was the publicly accepted reason. Indeed, if Innate Genetics suffered damage, it would be hard to make progress. But, there was never the case of brain region depth degenerating. Moreover, he knew his body the most, if his body had any defect there was no way he wouldn’t feel it.
“After the incident, the statistics for my physical capabilities increased significantly.”
Lin Feng pondered deeply.
Before the incident, the statistics for his physical capabilities were average for initiate genetic warriors. Yet, after the incident, my physical capabilities not only didn’t fall, but rather, they rose above the average initiate genetic warrior. There was no reason to be found for this, just as mysterious as the degeneration of his brain region depth.
“Whatever.” Lin Feng smiled with relief.
The past belongs in the past, no matter what, reality can’t be changed.
“In reality, I should be glad,” Lin Feng pondered, “If my brain region depth degeneration occurred while breaking through the limit, after becoming a genetic warrior and fusing an Elemental Core with my dantian, that would truly be a dead end. Now, at least I can still go back and take another path to become an ancient martial artist.”
Lin Feng smiled.
Take a step back and open up your perspective.
When a door closes, another one opens.
Walking behind the genetic nutrients basin, Lin Feng pressed down on a silver button. In an instant, rows of sealed, glass bottles appeared. These were all the genetic fluids his brother prepared for him.They were all expensive, it’s a pity that he wasted quite a bit of them in that one year.
“6, 7, 8 … there’s still 12 bottles,” Lin Feng quickly made an inventory check, “In addition to the ones gifted by the institute, it should be enough for sister to use for half a year.”
Blazing Sun Primary Genetics Institute gifts a bottle of genetic fluid every month. In accordance to his training experience, roughly three bottles a month should be enough.
Since he knew his sister possessed Innate Genetics, he naturally made preparations in advance; arranging the best training path for his sister on her behalf, just like what his brother did for him. Counting the next three months, in other words, he still had nine months to prepare. Time was actually quite urgent.
“I still have three months until graduation, so I can still receive another three bottles of genetic fluid.” Lin Feng tidied up the bottles.
He planned to give the three bottles from the institute to Ah Li. Even though he had no way of entering the Three Big Advanced Genetic Institutes, but Ah Li still had hope. With regards to Ah Li’s talents, it was actually pretty good, it’s just too bad his family circumstances is only so-so. If he had enough genetic fluids to intake from a young age, even if he couldn’t breakthrough the limit, his strength would definitely not be inferior to Shi Wenlong’s.
As his good brother, if he could help out he would definitely do so.
After he finished tidying up the bottles, Lin Feng was just about to get up, suddenly——
“Hm?” Lin Feng was slightly in a daze.
His gaze fell upon a corner where genetic fluid used to be. After tidying everything up, a small pitch-black coloured object unexpectedly showed up. The colour was similar to the interior of the storage, if one didn’t look carefully it would be hard to differentiate. Lin Feng shifted away a bottle of genetic fluid and his eyes suddenly lit up.
A black, metallic case was peacefully laying there.
“This is?!” Carrying a bit of suspicion, Lin Feng took the case out and weighed it in his hand.
Heavy, yet light.
Heaviness, from the case; Lightness, from the content inside.
“Pa!” Lin Feng opened up the black, metallic case. In an instant, a dazzling silver light shot out and lit up the entire training room. It was a clearly defined “heart”, seemingly formed by millions and millions of crystal shards; crystal clear and refracting silver rays of light as if it were an emperor-like existence.
Lin Feng was in shock.
He stared at the not too big, silver, heart-shaped crystal, unable to breathe.
Elemental Core!
This was a genuine Elemental Core. The source of all genetic energy that genetic warriors absorb, store, and put to use comes from “Elemental Cores”. To put it simply, this was a genetic warrior’s “dantian”.
Elemental Core’s according to their ranks are divided into: E rank, D rank, C rank, B rank, and A rank. There’s also the legendary S rank that surpasses A rank. Each rank is then subdivided into nine levels, for example: with E rank, the worst is E9, while the best is E1.
However, even the worst E9 Elemental Core is still worth a lot.
Certainly, if one were to enter into the Three Big Advanced Genetics Institutes, or perhaps the enlist into the City Guards, or even become the bodyguard of a rich merchant, then it is possible to receive one of the three types of E9 Elemental Cores for free. When Crown Elite Institute recruited Lin Feng in advance, one of the conditions they gave was that Lin Feng was free to select a core from any category of D1 Elemental Cores.
The price for D rank Elemental Cores is already pretty outrageous, not to mention C rank.
But, the silver, heart-shaped crystal in front of Lin Feng right now is actually——
A rank.
A real, genuine A rank Elemental Core—Titanium Core.
With an initial rank of A8, Titanium Cores within the rare metals is considerably good. Belonging to the Strengthening System from the three big systems, perhaps … with regards to strengthening defense, it’s inferior to “Molybdenum Cores”; or perhaps, with regards to strengthening power it’s inferior to “Tungsten Cores”, but its succeeds in overall strength. Only the “Titanium Body” from neo-martial arts possesses more astonishing power.
It can be said that once this “Titanium Core” is brought out, it would definitely be earth shattering.
But, to Lin Feng, this “Titanium Core” had a completely different meaning…
“Ah Feng, which Elemental Core do you like the most?”
“Titanium Core!”
“Haha, you have good taste. Steady and earnest, yet out of the ordinary—fits well with your personality, Ah Feng!”
“It’s only a thought, brother. There’s not even a market for Titanium Cores, they’re too expensive. We can’t afford it.”
“Don’t be such a coward! Ah Feng, remember, as a man you must be willing to dream and willing to do. Don’t fear any challenge. A Titanium Core is nothing. Wait until the day you breakthrough the limit, brother will give it to you as present!”
….
That bold, confident voice still deeply lingers in his mind; but, the past is long gone.
To Lin Feng, the influence of his brother, Lin Zhan, is deeply engraved in his heart. Even now, he still vividly remembers the earnest teachings of his brother. This past year, despite all the unimaginable pressure and suffering, Lin Feng still tenaciously stood back up.
“Brother, you still remembered…” Lin Feng cupped the black case in his hands and softly murmured.
He didn’t expect that his brother had always remembered his thoughtless words from back then. Clearly, this black case has been here for more than a year. Just that…this past year he was too consumed by his nightmare and never noticed it.
Titanium Core, it’s precious without a doubt.
But, the most precious of all, are actually the feelings of his brother.
“Thank you, brother.” Lin Feng closed his eyes, his heart filled with warmth and gratitude.
Sure, he probably won’t be able to use this Titanium Core, but it’s still the best present he has ever received.
….
Very quickly, Lin Feng calmed his mind down.
Although the Titanium Core is extremely powerful, but to the current him it couldn’t provide any substantial help.
In front of him, there was only one path left.
“Shua!~” Flipping open the thin, brown book, Lin Feng’s heart was calm but also curious.
Hou! A dragon’s roar rumbled by the side of his ear. An enormous, vivid and life-like dragon head appeared, giving Lin Feng quite a bit of shock. Its pair of dragon eyes reflected a gem-like brilliance.
“Pa!” A hologram flickered and revealed three big dazzling, lofty words above the book——
Nine Dragon Sutra.
“What a powerful mastery of words.” A hint of reverence appeared in Lin Feng.
Just from the words alone, one could tell that the author had profound strength. Flipping through one page at a time, Lin Feng quickly entered into a state of mind; carefully reading and comprehending. Each word was precious, each sentence crucial. In an instant, he immersed himself into the ocean that is ancient mind cultivation.
10 minutes later.
“There’s actually three layers.” Lin Feng flipped to the last page and felt a bit pleasantly surprised.
For the most part, ancient mind cultivation skills from 9th to 1st tier only have one layer; two layers was rare. Sure enough, just like he expected, this 《Nine Dragon Sutra》 was above Huang level 9th rank. This was way better than whatever benefit Blazing Sun Dojo could’ve provided. Even if he entered the Sunset Dojo, the most basic cultivation skill they would’ve given him would’ve just been 1st tier.
“Great!” Lin Feng clenched his fists as his confidence increased.
At the beginning stages of cultivation for an ancient martial artist, having a good mind cultivation skill would no doubt yield greater results for less effort.
As for the origins of 《Nine Dragon Sutra》, since his mother didn’t tell him, she must have her reasons. There was no need to pry any further. The most important is that this can help him succeed in becoming an ancient martial artist, make a breakthrough in one of the seven souls[1], and raise his brain region depth above the limit; it would be sufficient enough to reach 10%.
10%, this was a real boundary line, also referred to as the critical point.
In the last era, mankind was bottlenecked at this critical line for quite a long time; unable to breakthrough. That is, until they discovered the existence of ancient martial arts and its profoundness. Only then did mankind finally step over that boundary. Even now, despite the impressive developments in science and technology, the proportion of the population that have brain region depth surpassing 10% and becoming ancient martial artists or genetic warriors is still not very high.
Breaking through would make one a giant amongst men; a future with endless prospects.
Even for the weakest initiate genetic warriors or initiate ancient martial artists, enlisting in the City Guards would allow them to give their family a well-off life.
Those who can’t cross over are just powerless commoners with no authority—like meat on the chopping board.
“I must succeed!” Lin Feng’s eyes were ablaze.
“I cannot allow mother and sister live in fear and go through hardships.”
“I must become an ancient martial artist!”
…
“Hu, hu~”
In the training room, Lin Feng sat cross-legged with his eyes closed, his shoulders relaxed, his spine straight, and his hands forming a seal below his dantian. His very being resembled the Liuhe Pagoda, from bottom to top, he was as solid as a boulder.
With his state of mind gradually condensed, Lin Feng let out a drawn-out breath, time seemed as if it stopped for an instant.
A state of tranquility, all that was left in the training room were the sounds of Lin Feng’s minute and gentle breathing.
10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour…
“Still no good.” Lin Feng opened his eyes, a look of contemplation on his face. He flipped through the 《Nine Dragon Sutra》 once again, carefully going over each and every word and softly muttered, “All ancient mind cultivation skills are the same, the first step to cultivation is sensing the existence of Heaven and Earth’s energy. After that, with the mind as the source, one communicates with Heaven and Earth. Only then can one officially begin to cultivate.”
“Hm…where did I go wrong?”
“Foot, hand, spine?”
Lin Feng wrinkled his brows, his heart slightly chilled.
This was because it was his first time cultivating, he had no teacher to guide him, hence he was not sure what the “criteria” was; his mind couldn’t grasp it.
“Sensing the energy of Heaven and Earth has no relations with the quality of the mind cultivation skill.”
“With good talent, one can sense it in about a day or less; with average talent, just this step of sensing would take about a year; and with horrible talent, one might not sense its existence in their lifetime.” Lin Feng thought in his mind.
With regards to the cultivation of ancient martial artists, he knew quite a bit.
As Lin Feng stared intently at the 《Nine Dragon Sutra》 his eyes suddenly lit up.
Then, he broke out into laughter and shook his head. A single word said it all——Calmness.
What is calmness?
Not only must the body be calm, but even more, the mind must be. He was too eager, his thirst to become an ancient martial artist was too strong. As a result, during his meditation there was obsession and too much desire in his mind. Hence, he couldn’t truly be calm. For an ancient martial artist to cultivate, they must use their mind as the source to communicate with Heaven and Earth. If the mind cannot be calm, how can it interact with Heaven and Earth?
The more urgent one is, the more chaotic one is.
“I understand now.” Lin Feng regulated his breathing and slowly closed his eyes.
This time he completely emptied his mind. His mind became tranquil and clear, almost instantaneously Lin Feng entered into perfect meditation. Opening up the book, Lin Feng felt that he looked precisely like the cross-legged figure portrayed within. He felt a change in his body; he was in perfect harmony with the world, as if he was a part of the world around him.
“The energy of Heaven and Earth.” Lin Feng’s heart stirred.
This was an invisible, intangible existence, yet Lin Feng could clearly feel it. This was completely different from genetic energy, it was just like a sheet of blank paper; pure and clean. Revolving all around his body, it began to gradually increase and gradually become richer.
“This?!” Lin Feng was extremely shocked, it was too hard to maintain the calmness of his mind, and in an instant he left the state of meditation.
“Peng!” “Peng!” Lin Feng could clearly feel his heartbeat get faster, even his breathing became quicker. There was no mistake. Just now, that was definitely the energy of Heaven and Earth without a doubt, but…how come there was so much?! According to his knowledge, ordinary ancient martial artists are only capable of sensing the energy in thin strands. Even the most talented ancient martial artists at most can sense the energy the size of raindrops. But, the way he sensed it…
Let alone raindrops, even if you described it as fog it would still fall short.
That was as dense as clouds!
“Si~~” Lin Feng drew a sharp intake of breath, he became restless and his eyes were shining.
This was truly astonishing!
Just as genetic warriors absorb genetic energy, even the ones who possess Innate Genetics there is a difference of strength between them; the rate of absorption is different, the quantity of absorption was different. Although Lin Feng wasn’t too proficient at the cultivation of ancient martial artists, but he at least knew the most basic principle——
The more energy of Heaven and Earth you can sense, the more you can absorb.
And naturally, cultivation would become faster.
[1] According to Daoism, humans possess 3 immortal souls and 7 mortal souls: 三魂七魄. The 2 souls mentioned last chapter are part of the series of mortal souls. The immortal souls correspond to Heaven, Earth and Man.
GSB Chapter 2
Yeah, there’s still a couple terms that I could probably name better… I’m also too lazy to really edit, so yeah. Anyways, this is turning out to be some sci-fi crossed with xianxia type of thing. I don’t mind reading it, but to be honest, this has gotten pretty annoying to translate. I’ll see how this goes. I think the thing that attracts me the most is the family bonds between the MC and his family. Well, in any case, if anyone is reading this, then enjoy!
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Chapter 2: Brain Region Depth
On the tree-lined path with flowers blooming all around, one could see guards patrolling everywhere.
In comparison to the simple Commoner District, the housing environment, conditions and security in the Halcyon Neighbourhood were pretty good.
“Di~~” Pressing down his fingerprint, the door made a thud noise and opened.
“Brother.” As soon as Lin Feng entered inside, he was met with a cute and lovely figure.
Big eyes, dainty nose, and lightly pursed cherry lips. A hint of worry could be clearly seen from her eyes—his little sister, “Lin Yuer”.
“You saw?” Lin Feng laughed as he brushed his sister’s nose, “Meddlesome.”
Lin Yuer pouted her lips, “I’m not a child.”
Lin Feng brightly laughed, took off his shoes and entered the living room. The house wasn’t too big, 150 square feet in plain view. It was simply decorated three bedroom home, with an additional closed-off training room. This was pretty much the standard set-up.
“Mm, smells good~” Lin Feng closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
“That’s right! Mom’s in a particularly good mood today,” Lin Yuer was unable to contain her joy, her eyes lit up, “It’s been so long since I’ve eaten a hot meal. Every day has been those cold, compressed energy meals, no taste at all.” Lin Yuer couldn’t help but pout her lips, looking very cute.
Lin Feng laughed involuntarily, “You’re just a glutton. As long as it provides sufficient calories and nutrients, isn’t it all the same? Besides…fresh vegetables aren’t cheap.” Lin Feng directed his gaze to the kitchen. Despite his words, he heart was filled with warmth. He knew why his mother’s mood was especially good today.
“How could it possibly be the same, the dishes mom makes taste the best~” Lin Yuer said with an intoxicated look, “Don’t worry brother, the money big brother left behind is still plenty…” but before her words finished, Lin Fuer suddenly thought of something and nervously covered her mouth and snuck a peek at Lin Feng like a startled bunny.
A hint of yearning flashed in his eyes. Lin Feng laughed shallowly and said, “I’m fine.”
If this was the him from past, there was no way he’d be this calm. But, after stepping out from the haze and nightmare that shrouded his heart, he felt that he has finally put everything down; or rather…
I have…already accepted reality.
“Brother, you…?” Lin Yuer looked over with confusion and curiosity.
“Sorry, Yuer.” Lin Feng gently embraced his sister, lovingly stroked her small head, and softly said, “This past year, I have worried you.” Feeling the frail figure in his embrace slightly tremble, Lin Feng softly sighed in his mind. His sister was young, but ever since she was little she was clever and quick-witted; she was aware of quite a bit.
Really, I’ve been an incompetent brother.
He had been muddleheaded for a whole year, just training like a madman; like a tiny boat that tried to brave the waters and refused to be toppled in a tsunami. But really, was it worth it? A tsunami’s rage would eventually subside, he could have completely just patiently waited it out and set sail afterwards.
“Brother.” Lin Yuer muttered.
“Hm?” Lin Feng replied.
“From now on, I’m going to ignore big sister[1] Qian.” Lin Yuer said softly, but with determination.
Lin Feng was slightly startled, “Why? Didn’t you like her the most?”
“But she isn’t good to my brother,” Lin Yuer said, “Anything that treats my brother bad, I don’t like.”
Lin Feng felt his chest tighten as he heard those words, as if the deepest recess of his heart was touched. His eyes became slightly moist, he was completely moved. The feelings his sister had for him were just like the feelings he had for his older brother, it was a deep affection; one of reliance and adoration. Although they weren’t related biologically related, their bond surpassed those of real blood-related siblings.
“Silly girl.” Lin Feng softly mumbled.
…
“Brother, why are fresh vegetable so expensive?”
“That’s because there’s no place to grow them. There’s only so much room in the urban area, with so many people living here, where’s the room to grow vegetables?”
“Oh, then are the big monsters in the Wilderness especially powerful?”
“Of course they’re really powerful. But, the Wilderness is full of treasures. There’s elemental crystals, spiritual fruits, medicinal herbs, and metal ores. Even the bodies of elemental[2] beasts are full of treasure.”
……
Lin Feng patiently answered all the questions that puzzled his sister.
With regards to this world, his nearly 12 year old sister had a thirst for knowledge. In another three months his sister will participate in the genetic testing to see if she possesses “Innate Genetics”. One’s brain region depth naturally reaches 5%, so it is necessary to absorb genetic energy into order to become a “genetic warrior”.
“Brother, in fact…what is brain region depth?” Lin Yuer rested her cheeks in her hands and asked inquisitively.
“It’s here,” Lin Feng laughed and pointed at his head, “In the Quaternary Period of the previous era, many humans from birth till death could only use 3%-5% of their brain. This is a huge waste, the human brain has limitless potential to be unearthed. As the brain region depth increases, mankind can become smarter; become stronger.”
“I once read a book that recorded some scientists that made major contributions to mankind, like Newton and Einsten. Their brain region depth was way above 5%. Not to mention some of the athletes preserved in the records, like Muhammad Ali, their brain region depth neared the limit of 10%.”
“Even more astonishing was that during the Three Kingdoms Period, many advisers and generals at the time had brain region depth not only exceeding 10%, but even reaching 20%, 30%.”
“What happened afterwards?” Lin Yuer suddenly became interested.
Lin Feng’s eyes were flickering as he slowly said, “Slowly, mankind began to pay more attention to their bodies, pay more attention to their brain. They began to think of all the ways to unearth their own potential, but in the end, they were unable to find the correct method to increase their brain region depth. Until…one day, they finally discovered, the existence of ancient martial arts and its profound mysteries.”
“With the mind as the source, communicating with Heaven and Earth, cultivate one’s inner strength and mind, absorb the energies from Heaven and Earth, and strengthen one’s body.”
“Then, one gathers qi in the dantian and once one has reached their limit, they may attempt to open access to either the Governing Vessel or Conception Vessel, or as we now call it ‘soul breakthrough’. Each time we make a soul breakthrough, our brain region depth will then be able to continue to increase. If both the Governing Vessel and Conception Vessel are opened, along with the ‘Power Soul’ and ‘Central Soul’, then our brain region depth will reach 30%.”[3]
“Mankind’s wisdom and body strength received a great boost, with their potential unlocked, they left the Quaternary Period and stepped into the Ancient Warring Era.”
Looking at his sister’s sparkling big eyes, Lin Feng couldn’t help but laugh.
He still remembers when he once asked his big brother these questions. With regards to history, his big brother always attached great importance to it, because history is just like a thick book, recording everything that has happened. And, the reason why humans were able to open up their potential and step into the Ancient Warring Era was all because of history.
“What are you two getting so happy talking about?” A gentle and tender voice was heard. Lin Feng raised his head and say a picturesque face—exactly like his mother’s name “Ji Yuhua”[4]. Seemingly like a peerless beauty that just stepped out of a painting. No vestige of time could be found on his mother’s face, rather, it gave her the feel of a mature and intellectual beauty.
Looking at his mother’s face, endless yearning and warmth rushed forth from Lin Feng’s heart, as if it’s been a whole year since he’s seen his mother.
“Mom,” Lin Feng opened his mouth, his voice soft and hoarse, yet carried certainty, “I’m back.”
With a magnificent smile, Ji Yuhua looked towards Lin Feng and said gently, “Welcome back.”
※※※
Simple dishes, yet because of a change in heart, they’ve become the world’s most delicious delicacies.
A family of three, joyous and harmonious. Seeing his mother and sister finally smiling again after so long, Lin Feng’s heart was filled with warmth.
This is my home. These are the people I would risk my life to protect. Brother isn’t here, so now I’m the only man of the house—it’s my duty to support this family. This was the oath I made with brother; more than that, this is my responsibility as a man.
“Mom, I plan to enroll in Blazing Sun’s Dojo.” Lin Feng said, as he looked towards his mother.
Ji Yuhua didn’t seem surprised, “For Yuer?”
Lin Feng knew he couldn’t hide it from his mother, nodding his head, he said, “Back then, brother worked hard to earn money in order to cultivate me. Yet…I failed to live up to his expectations. Yuer is clever and can bear hardships, if there is enough money to buy genetic fluid, I firmly believe that before 18 she’ll breakthrough the limit and become a genetic warrior.”
Ji Yuhua lightly smiled, “Are you sure that Yuer definitely has Innate Genetics?”
Lin Feng’s eyebrows tensed, “Brother and I both had Innate Genetics, Yuer…she should…” Uncertainty could be seen, Lin Feng hesitated. He forgot that his mother didn’t give birth to Yuer.
“Yuer does in fact possess Innate Genetics.” Ji Yuhua replied.
“Huh?” Lin Feng was slightly startled. As far as he knew, his sister hasn’t undergone genetic testing yet. Looking at his mother, Lin Feng suddenly smiled. Since his mother said it, then she must be absolutely certain. Ever since he was little, his mother seemed like she knew everything; nothing could be hidden from her.
It’s important to know that the chances of possessing Innate Genetics is barely 1 in a 1000.
Yet, his sister is able to become one of the possessors, it had to be said that this is heartening good news.
“Are you certain that you want to start over from the beginning?” Ji Yuhua suddenly asked. Her beautiful, wisdom-filled eyes seemed as if they could see through everything.
“Yes, mother.” With his eyes shining, Lin Feng replied, without any hesitation.
From the moment I took that step, my heart already had an answer.
Making this decision was difficult because the path to become a genetic warrior or an ancient martial artist were two very different paths. Everything, from the way you train, to the way you fight, to energy inside your body, and even the equipment you use are vastly different. Moreover, the path to become an ancient martial artist is ten times, a hundred times more difficult than becoming a genetic warrior.
Lin Feng and his mother stared at one another, eye-to-eye. The belief in his heart did not waver a single bit.
Perhaps, I don’t have my brother’s talents; but, I definitely will not give up. No matter what knocks me down, or setbacks I receive, I will move forward with steadfast courage.
“Very good.” Ji Yuhua lightly smiled, her eyes displayed a hint of approval and satisfaction. Suddenly, a thin brown book appeared in her hand. Lin Feng’s gaze turned towards the book, he stretched out his hand and received the book his mother handed over to him. Puzzled, he asked, “Mom, this is?”
“Mental cultivation technique, or in other words…the skill to train one’s mind.” Ji Yuhua replied without emotion, her eyes revealing a kind of unusual blurriness.
“Hah?” Lin Feng felt bewildered.
Ancient mind cultivation skill?
Why would his mom have an ancient martial mind cultivation skill?
“Remember, Feng-er [5], unless by absolute necessity, never reveal it.” warned Ji Yuhua, with a serious face.
Lin Feng felt his heart tighten when he heard those words.
Those words, a lot of details were contained in them.
Ancient mind cultivation skills, with regards to ancient martial artists, is considerably important. Just like Elemental Cores to genetic warriors. Through ancient mind cultivation skills, ancient martial artists are able to absorb the energy of Heaven and Earth—strengthening their bodies. Then, along with martial skills, they get a powerful burst in their combat power. It can be said that for ancient martial artists, no matter if they are cultivating or fighting, they could not be separated from ancient mind cultivation skills.
In accordance to their grade, ancient mind cultivation skills can be divided into those are not up to par; 9th tier to 1st tier; Huang level, Xuan level, and Di level from rank 1 to 9. There’s even the legendary Tian level.
Most importantly, starting from Huang level and up, ancient mind cultivation skills cannot be privately passed on and sold. Those that break this rule will be wanted by the Ancient Martial Artist Alliance. Therefore, in order to first become an ancient martial artist, one must first become a member of a dojo or sect in order to receive a good ancient mind cultivation skill
Clearly, the skill book he had in his hands wasn’t ordinary.
“Don’t worry,” Ji Yuhua seemingly read Lin Feng’s mind and softly said, “As long as you don’t make a move, no one would know what mind skill you’re cultivating.”
“Ah, right.” Lin Feng answered thoughtlessly, then suddenly realized.
That’s right, if it’s just cultivating and he didn’t say anything, then who would know?
“There’s no need to sacrifice yourself for others, silly child, because…they love you all the same, “Ji Yuhua said with a gentle voice, “Go on, cultivate to your heart’s content.”
Their gazes met, the brimming and warm motherly love was all expressed without the need for words.
“Mom, thank you.” Lin Feng lightly nodded his head, grasping onto the thin book in his hand, he could feel the warm currents in his heart. The main reason he wanted to join the Blazing Sun Dojo was for an “ancient mind cultivation skill”. But now, with this skill book, his future has suddenly become wider; the choices he can make have increased so much more.
Blazing Sun Dojo is under the Sunset Dojo, and inside Sunset City, besides Sunset Dojo…there’s also the existence of a “sect”.
“I will definitely become an ancient martial artist!” Lin Feng clenched his fists.
I’m almost 18… I must support this entire family!
…
Watching as Lin Feng entered the training room, there was a faint flicker in Ji Yuhua’s beautiful eyes.
“Silly child, your older brother’s talents were undoubtedly peerless beyond compare, but… you aren’t inferior to him one bit.”
“Zhan-er’s personality is like his father’s, too rigid and easy to break; Yet, Feng-er, your personality is tenacious, unyielding and dauntless. To you, setbacks are the best grinding stones to improve yourself. Devoid of all superficial baggage, one day, your light will shine through. Believe in your mother…”
“Ancient martial artist, that is your true path.”
[1] Not sure if I want to translate 姐姐 as big sister or leave it as -jiejie, like a suffix. Similar to the Japanese or Korean ones.
[2] Uh, elemental as in chemical elements still, I think?
[3] Okay, here we go. The two Vessels are essentially meridians, energy channels if you will. Did some research and it seems they refer to them as Vessels in English TCM, so I will use that. Not sure if it’s important, but the Governing Vessel and Conception Vessel control the Yang and Yin channels of the body, respectively. Now then, they confused me a bit here because they used “冲魄” to describe breaking through, but at the same time, 冲魄 is also one of the 7 mortal souls in Daoism, along with the Power Soul, 力魄, and Central Soul, 中枢魄 mentioned afterwards. In the beginning, I thought he was referring to the specific soul, but it seems that he was using it to describe the action of opening up/gaining access to the souls? The two souls mentioned here reside in the heart chakra and solar plexus chakra respectively. Again, I am not sure if that will be important.
[4] Yu hua means picturesque, literally translate to, “like a picture/painting”.
[5] -er, suffix added to name to show affection/intimacy.
Previous Chapter | TOC | Next Chapter
GSB Chapter 1
First chapter! I’m reading this as I translate and stuff, so I don’t know how the story goes either. It seems interesting enough to me at the moment? Also, this is pretty much unedited, so if there are spelling errors/grammar mistakes, feel free to give me a heads up. I don’t bite (that hard). Enjoy.
PS: The Lin Feng in this novel doesn’t have the same name as the Lin Feng in Peerless Martial God. The “Lin” is the same word, but the “Feng” is different. 林峰 in this one, and 林枫 for PMG.
_________________________________________
Chapter 1: Lin Feng
The whistling autumn wind brought a slight chill to one’s face as it blew.
Accompanying the sound of rustling wind was a light rain drizzle. The rain fell on a half-oval shaped fort that was kept afloat in mid-air through magnetic force. If one looked through the reinforced glass that was wet from the rain, one could see that the fort was currently filled with people and buzzing with activity.
“Luo Wen, 16 years old. Depth of brain region: 6.89%, 7th rank.”
“Han Tiancheng, 16 years old. Depth of brain region: 7.77%, 5th rank.”
……
“Ji Min, 17 years old. Depth of brain region: 7.38%, 6th rank.”
“Wu Yingjun, 17 years old. Depth of brain region: 8.13%, 4th rank.”
……
Dozens of youths lined up, and in an orderly fashion, successively entered inside a cylindrical apparatus that was roughly three-and-a-half metres tall. Inside, a dark gold “helmet” would come down and be worn by the examinee, followed by a momentary flash of electromagnetic light. Afterwards, a fluorescent curtain of light flashes to reveal clear and distinct figures, which the examiner then announces and records in their log.
“Hey, genius Lin Feng, what’s your guess on your rank this time?” The one who spoke was a youth with a wretched appearance. His words were mixed with sarcasm, and his smile was one of ridicule.
The voice wasn’t loud, but it instantly brought about a slight clamour and discussion.
“Who? Who is Lin Feng?”
“So he’s the legendary Lin Feng. I heard that two years ago he experienced an accident and his brain region depth not only stopped rising, but it actually decreased. Is this true?”
“Absolutely true. It’s a real pity, last year he was only 16 years old and his brain region depth already reached 9.95%, just a mere distance away from the limit. Apparently, of the Three Big Advanced Genetics Institutes, the top one–Crown Elite Institute–already offered unbelievably, favourable conditions and recruited him in advance. However, it was because of that incident that…alas, Heaven is fickle.”
……
Rumours and slander were cropping up all around.
Gazes were occasionally glancing over in one direction, falling onto a handsome youth in the middle of the line. A refined head of short hair; a full forehead[1]; a pair of bright, energetic eyes that were full of vitality. Indeed, this was the subject of all the rumours—Lin Feng.
“Swish~”[2] A glimmer flashed in his eye, Lin Feng’s chest slightly fluctuated.
In reality, it hurts!
The pain didn’t come from the accident. The acute, drilling pain came from his heart. In a single night everything changed. He, who was once the chosen one, supported and praised by the people, have now slowly fallen to rock-bottom and become everyone’s topic of gossip; become everyone’s clown to laugh and ridicule. Even now, he still vividly remember the drastic change of expression on the face of Crown Elite Institute’s vice principal when he saw the figures displayed by the Brain Region Depth Testing apparatus.
“WHAT KINDA JOKE IS THIS?!” Those five words, the contempt and anger in his eyes, and his figure as he turned his back to leave became my nightmare.
However…
This is all in the past.
“Honestly, these people, all of them just busybodies indulging in idle gossip. What’s the point?” said a sturdy youth that looked courageous and strong. His eyebrows displayed a hint of anger, if this place did not strictly forbid violence, he would have already burst by now.
Lin Feng looked at the sturdy youth and felt a bit of warmth in his heart.
He, is his only friend, Yang Li.
“Just let them, Ah Li[3],” said Lin Feng apathetically, “I already stopped caring.”
Yang Li’s brows slightly stirred, and carefully probed, “Truly?”
Lin Feng smiled and said, “Of course it’s true.” A faint look of yearning flashed by in his eyes. Lin Feng clenched his fist. Once I can gather enough courage to step into this place again without fear of all the rumours, slanders, and looks of ridicule, then I can prove that I have truly stepped out from the shadow of my past.
Pressing onto his chest, Lin Feng closed his eyes. Feeling his undulating chest slowly calming down, he let out a cheerful smile.
This instant, he truly believed that the haze shrouding his heart has finally dissipated.
“Wonderful!” Yang Li let out breath of air, as if relieving himself from a heavy load, and said with a laugh, “I was afraid that you would fall into despair with no hope of recovery.”
“How could that happen.” Lin Feng calmly laughed. A shine flitted past his eye, and with strong, unswerving determination he said, “My goal has never wavered. I must become like my older brother; become genuinely strong. This year, despite the depth of my brain region decreasing again and again, I did not forsake my training.”
Yang Li said with his lips twitching, “You madman. I’m afraid you would train with your blade until you get possessed.”
Lin Feng’s gaze lit up, blue veins jutting out from his fists, “I’m unwilling to accept it. Why is it that even though I am putting in so much effort, and training myself more assiduously than any other person, that in exchange for all my hardships, this is the outcome?”
“Ai~” Yang Li lightly sighed, wanting to say words of comfort but stopped.
Nobody knew Lin Feng more than him. Others just saw his impressive natural talents, and eye-dazzlingly achievements. Yet, no one knew how much effort he put behind the scenes; how much blood and sweat he shed. As a child, Lin Feng had a lean and weak body. He was the skinniest. But from the moment he turned 6, he began to strive hard to train himself, and improve his body. In the end, when he chose to enter Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute at the age of 12, the stats for Lin Feng’s physical capabilities ranked at number one.
It’s true that natural talents are precious, but, effort is even more important!
Yang Li can remember even now, back then the other kids would laugh at Lin Feng for being foolish. But…who’s the foolish one now?
It’s just a pity that…
“Hm?” Yang Li suddenly reacted, with a slight look of uncertainty, he hesitantly asked, “Didn’t your genes get damaged? Ah Feng, how can you still become a genetic warrior?”
Lin Feng lightly laughed, “To become truly strong, there are more ways than just breaking through the limit. The path to becoming a genetic warrior…” said Lin Feng as he patted Yang Li’s shoulder, “Look, it’s your turn to get tested, Ah Li.” Yang Li was startled when he heard that, there really was no one in front of him, he quickly ran forward.
Looking at Yang Li, Lin Feng’s gaze fell upon the Brain Region Depth Testing apparatus, with a bit of worry for Yang Li.
There’s still three more months until the three big advanced genetics institutes recruitment period. When that time comes, if the 18 year old Yang Li’s brain region depth isn’t even 2nd rank then he would have no hope.
As for himself…
Having been already rejected by Crown Elite Institute a year ago, his hope has already been dashed.
“Yang Li, 17 years old. Depth of brain region: 8.85%, 3rd rank.” The examiner said with the usual icy voice.
Voices of discussion popped up all around. Achieving 3rd rank is actually considerably good. With regards to all the examinees that have already gone, a brain region depth of 8.85% places 5th in the rankings. Yet, Yang Li who just finished his test had an anxious expression and wasn’t in a cheerful mood.
“Hu~~” Letting out a deep breath, Lin Feng slowly walked forward.
Coming back after one year, it wasn’t to prove anything. Rather, it was like his brother once said: Face yourself with honesty. Or perhaps it should be…
Go accept reality.
Even though this wasn’t the reality I wanted.
“Zi~” Accompanying a flash of electromagnetic light, the fluorescent curtain of light displayed a clear set of figures.
“Lin Feng, 17 years old. Depth of brain region: 5.00%, 10th rank.” The examiner’s voice was no longer ice-cold, it carried along a hint of contempt and ridicule, and even disdain. In his eyes, Lin Feng is completely trash. To Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute, he was their greatest humiliation.
At Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute, even the 12 year old new students were stronger than Lin Feng!
“HAHA!” “HAHAHAH!~~” The whole room roared with laughter, many of the youths even laughed until tears came out.
“Truly a genius!”
“Right, right, a 10th rank genius!”
“You guys think if his brain region depth falls even lower, will he become retarded? HAHA~”
……
“WHAT’S SO FUNNY?!” Yang Li bellowed with rage. With an ashen face, and eyes full of anger, he was ready to brandish his large fists and start hitting people, but was stopped by Lin Feng who grabbed onto his wrists, “Let’s go. There’s only three months left. Don’t leave behind a bad record.”
“I’m not worried!” Yang Li’s arm muscles became steel-like, blue veins popping out on his forehead.
“It’s fine,” Lin Feng said softly. His heart was moved. Grabbing onto the enraged Yang Li’s wrist, he dragged him off. With regards to the quality of one’s body, the 12 year old Lin Feng who just entered Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute was number one; 5 years later, he was still, without a doubt, number one.
“Come, fight! Fight if you’re so capable!”
“Or is it that speaking the truth nowadays isn’t allowed?”
“Oh, Yang Li, if you keep sticking around that 10th rank genius and your brain region depth starts to degenerate, don’t blame us for not reminding you.”
“HAHAH!~~”
……
Accompanying all sorts of ridicule and unpleasantries, Lin Feng strongly pulled Yang Li out of the Brain Region Depth Testing Centre.
“Sorry, Ah Feng, I was impulsive.” The light drizzle that fell on Yang Li’s face, along with the steel-like grip on his wrist, Yang Li recovered his clarity. Hanging his head in shame, he said, “This attitude of mine almost got you in trouble.”
“Me getting into trouble isn’t anything important,” Lin Feng relaxed his right hand that was gripping onto Yang Li, and said sternly, “If you left behind a bad record because of me, then that would be a pity. You’re not like me, you still have hope of entering one of the Three Big Advanced Genetic Institutes.”
“Easier said than done,” Yang Li said, with a bitter laugh, “Currently, the depth of my brain region is 8.85%. Raising it to 9% in three months time by relying on the genetic fluid allocated by the institute, which simply isn’t enough. And moreover, even if my brain region depth reaches 2nd rank, it only qualifies me to take the exam to enter the Three Big Advanced Genetics Institute, that’s all.”
“Don’t give up, there will be a way.” Lin Feng patted Yang Li’s shoulder.
“Alright, wishing your words will come true,” Yang Li said as he shrugged, clearly lacking confidence, “I’ll go back home and discuss it with my pops. See if there’s a way to gather a bit of money to go buy some genetic fluid.” His gaze falling onto Lin Feng, Yang Li revealed a cheerful smile, “No matter what, seeing my bro standing up again is worth more than anything.”
“I’m leaving!” Yang Li patted his chest, and pressed down on the crystalline watch on his left hand.
Zi!~ A light projection condensed into a solid entity, in mid-air a black, hovercar suddenly appeared. Yang Li jumped in, turned his head to face Lin Feng and waved his hand. All of a sudden, he left like the wind. Looking at Yang Li’s leaving figure, Lin Feng couldn’t help but smile. This bro of his has a carefree personality, sure he’s a bit impulsive, but his character is actually pretty good.
“Oh?” Lin Feng raised his head and stared towards the sky.
The light drizzling rain finally stopped, revealing a blue sky and white clouds, and even the howling gale became a cool, refreshing breeze—improving one’s mood greatly.
“The sky, it’s finally clear.” Lin Feng said with a slight smile.
※※※
Blazing Sun District.
One could see new and extraordinary reinforced concrete buildings towering into the clouds; streets bustling with activity; all sorts of magnetic hovercars shuttling back and forth endlessly.
The atmosphere was fresh and clean, carrying along a feeling that made one’s soul feel relaxed and clear. In the 101st year of the Warring Era, electromagnetic energy and chemical machinery[4] has already become mainstream science and technology. There is no more pollution.
Lin Feng sped along the spacious road like a vigorous cheetah. One foot following the other, his actions flowed ever so smoothly and consistent. Even though his brain region depth has fallen, nevertheless, his body strengthened by genetics would not degenerate.
His gaze fell on a rarely seen and valuable magnetic hovercar inside a building in the flourishing urban district. A radiant light flitted across his eyes.
It was feelings of yearning and attachment; but not jealousy, and certainly not envy.
“What big brother wasn’t able to do, let me be the one to do it.”
“I will let my mother and little sister live a good life; live in the best ocean villa; drive the most expensive magnetic hovercar. Brother, I will definitely do it!”
“This is the promise we brothers made!”
Lin Feng’s eyes slightly blurred while reminiscing about his childhood.
Two brothers, hand-in-hand, made an oath as men—that for as long as they live, they would protect their family. Brother already accomplished it. Ever since he was little, he was a chosen one, the pride of the entire family; moreover, his brother was the person he worshipped the most. With the most exceptional scores, he entered Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetic Institute. At merely 15 years old, his brother broke through the limit and became a genetic warrior.
Indeed, Lin Feng was also once Blazing Sun District’s future star, but not everything is like what others’ see.
His innate talents were inferior to brother’s. The reason body is currently so strong is because from the age of 6 onwards, he received brother’s grueling training and tempering. Certainly, the stats for his physical capabilities were high, nobody in his cohort at Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetic Institute could compare to it. Yet, it was not able to break the school record—because the school record is still maintained by him, the him who was merely 15 years old at the time.
His own big brother—a genuinely perfect, and flawless genius:
Lin Zhan!
“Big brother, until the day I see your corpse, I refuse to believe that you’re dead.”
“You’re definitely somewhere waiting for me. Wait for me!”
“I will reach you very soon!”
……
With his lips tightly pursed, Lin Feng moved as fast as lightning, like a violent gust of cold wind.
Several drops of rain drifted in the air, was it raining again?
.…..
Halcyon Neighbourhood.
This was a very ordinary neighbourhood inside Blazing Sun District; not too good, but also not bad. It fell short of the best, but was still better than the worst. Lin Feng stepped into the neighbourhood with a bit of heartbrokenness still remaining in his heart, but this could not stop the longing he had for his brother. The house in the neighbourhood was bought by his brother because he said he liked the plain and simple name: Halcyon.
He gave his family peace and safety, but what about himself?
Originally, the conditions of the home could’ve been much better, but his brother used most of the money he earned to purchase genetic fluid. This was how he, at just 16, came to possess a brain region depth of 9.95%, a mere distance away from the limit. From the start, he was never peerless and gifted genius.
“Ah Feng, you don’t know if you have any innate talent. But, you already possess two very precious traits.”
“One is perseverance, and the other is the ability to try harder than anyone else.”
……
“Hu~~” Letting out a light breath of air, Lin Feng closed his eyes.
Pressure. Responsibility. Guilt. All sorts of feelings rushed out, this build up caused him to fall apart one year ago.
Luckily, he has finally stepped out from that nightmare.
Just at that moment——
“Rumble!~” A loud sound rang out and immediately attracted all the residents in the neighbourhood to look up. Lin Feng slowly opened his eyes. Without looking, he already knew the sound came from a magnetic hovercar; moreover, a particularly expensive kind.
Pa! Travelling like fierce wind, yet with a stillness that makes one’s heartbeat pause.
Not sure if by coincidence or if done deliberately, the red and extremely streamlined magnetic hovercar stopped exactly in front of Lin Feng—blocking his path. Lin Feng expressionlessly looked over, a faint glimmer flashed in his eye.
Waa[5]~~ A circular sunroof retracted, revealing two figures.
A man, handsome and extraordinary, wearing an expensive silver elemental battle suit. The girl, tender like a flower, with a beautiful and alluring smile; her bright and clear eyes were especially mesmerizing. Exiting the vehicle with a honey sweet smile, the beautiful girl immediately came face-to-face with Lin Feng. Her smile froze in an instant, eyes showing a momentary lingering look, with a look of awkwardness on her face.
“I’ll go back first.” The beautiful girl looked towards the handsome man, lightly bit her lips, as she wished to leave.
“Why? Embarrassed to see your old lover?” The handsome man said with a grim laugh. He grabbed onto the beautiful girl’s wrist and forcefully embraced her.
“N-no,” The beautiful girl’s expression changed drastically, immediate after she said, “Wenlong, there’s nothing going on between him and I.”
Him!
That one word, like a sharp drill, abruptly bore into Lin Feng’s heart.
Calling him with such unfamiliarity; replying with such straightforwardness.
Once upon a time, she was his childhood sweetheart. They lived in the same neighbourhood and had an inseparable relationship. Even though they never explicitly declared their relationship, but they secretly had feelings for each other. It’s just too bad, everything changed one year ago. Everyone had left him, including her—Wang Qian.
“Really?” The handsome man coldly laughed without even giving so much as a look to Wang Qian. With a burning look, he stared at Lin Feng, and with his head held high he said, “Hey, 10th rank genius, after hiding inside your turtle shell for a year, you finally willing to come out?”
“News sure travels fast.” Lin Feng said as he laughed calmly.
Shi Wenlong, at Blazing Sun District’s Primary Genetics Institute was second only to himself. 2nd rank brain region depth, standing head and shoulders above others. He always viewed Lin Feng as a rival. His “10th rank genius” title had just came out a while ago, so he probably came here on purpose and brought Wang Qian along to ridicule and provoke him.
“HAHAHA!” Shi Wenlong wantonly laughed, the arm embracing Wang Qian tightening, “With a title as resounding as 10th rank genius, even if I didn’t want to know about it it’d be hard. Am I right, Xiao Qian?[6]”
Wang Qian lightly bit her cherry lips, with a slightly pale expression. Yet, she didn’t dare to not answer and let out a faint “mm”.
“Look, even your ex-lover is laughing at you, Lin Feng.” Shi Wenlong pretended to have an astonished expression, immediately followed by a look of contempt, “If I were you, I wouldn’t be out here making a fool out of myself. In your present condition, you should hurry and find a hole to burrow in.”
Lin Feng’s eyes were clear, glancing over at Wang Qian who didn’t dare to even make a sound despite her suffering, he couldn’t help but softly sigh in his mind.
Was this all worth it?
On the day that Wang Qian chose to leave, he actually didn’t blame her. With regards to the ambiguous feelings he had, he didn’t feel unfortunate. There are many things that are lost without feelings of regret. It’s just too bad that she actually chose the infamous playboy, Shi Wenlong. Just from looking at Shi Wenlong words, actions, and mannerisms one could tell he wasn’t being sincere with her—she was just a toy to him.
“Ai~~” Ling Feng shook his head, turned around and left. This immediately made Wang Qian’s complexion even paler and unsightly.
As for Shi Wenlong, Lin Feng isn’t even interested in paying attention to this type of person.
“Fucking brokeass!” Shi Wenlong’s handsome face turned a bit savage and hideous, looking at Lin Feng’s back, the look of hatred in his eyes was undisguised. The fight two years ago, under everyone’s watchful eyes, Lin Feng had beaten the teeth out of him. That unforgettable humiliation, to this very day, is still branded in his heart.
“Lin Feng! Don’t think this is over, not only will I snatch your woman, by the time I’m done with you, it’ll be too late for regrets!”
With a cold snort, Shi Wenlong immediately drove his red, hovercar—leaving in an instant. All that was left behind was a pale and unsightly Wan Qian, lips bleeding from biting down too hard.
[1] A full forehead, 天庭饱满, signifies wisdom. In Chinese fortune telling, parts of the human body correspond with Heaven and Earth. In this case, the forehead corresponds to 天庭. Moreover, the forehead itself can be subdivided into three parts and they are: upper, middle and lower. Each part itself corresponding to a certain trait: reasoning, memory, and intuition, respectively. Hence, for one to have a “full forehead” would mean that they possess all these traits, which signifies wisdom.
[2] I suck with sfx, okay?
[3] Using “Ah” in front of someone’s name is just more casual way, showing a more intimate relationship at times, to call someone. No good English equivalent, so I’m leaving it.
[4] It actually “element machinery”, but what it means by element isn’t like “wind”, “fire” and etc., rather, it’s chemical elements. I wasn’t sure how to put it nicely, so yeah…
[5] Sorry, literally couldn’t come up with the proper sfx, just imagine the noise of a roof retracting…
[6] Xiao = Little. An intimate way to refer to someone. Again, I’m leaving this.
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Disappointing Translations 