Chapter 153

Chapter 153 The match began swiftly. Unexpectedly, the moment the teacher announced the start, the arena transformed from a plain platform into a quarry-like space. Noticing their confusion, Ian explained: “That’s our arena’s feature. You can choose from several battle maps, agreed beforehand. Even for unique maps the school doesn’t have, book a week in advance with credits, and teachers can create it.” Such a flashy arena design matched the school’s vibe. It also reminded Su Bei that the tri-school competition might use similar arenas. Compared to bare arenas, varied maps gave Ability users more room to shine. But a map advantageous to some was disadvantageous to others. A quarry map—likely Jiang Tianming’s choice. In a plain arena, his [Object Control] Ability would struggle, but a map with manipulable objects suited him perfectly. The match unfolded as expected. A dark yellow halo glowed under Kayla’s feet, shooting toward Jiang Tianming. Though unaware of its effect, he dodged instinctively. But the arena’s limited space, plus the quarry’s lack of high ground, meant despite his efforts, he was soon trapped. Once caught, he understood the Ability: he was confined to the circle, feeling an uncomfortable burning sensation. He needed to end this quickly. Jiang Tianming used [Object Control] to manipulate nearby pebbles for attacks. Kayla, having pinned him, saw he could control stones and opted for close-quarters combat. With Jiang Tianming trapped, barely able to turn, close combat was highly effective. Even with solid fighting skills, overturning this was tough. Plus, Kayla’s own combat skills were strong. Knowing her control Ability lacked offense, she’d honed her fighting diligently, never slacking. Without other abilities, Jiang Tianming might’ve lost. But he had more, using a skill from [Frost Mage], part of [Death Summon], to unleash a hailstorm across the arena. This Ability’s hail wasn’t ordinary. Beyond physical pain, each hit drained the target’s Mental Energy. That was [Death Summon]’s strength: it perfectly replicated a deceased user’s Ability and mastered moves. No further growth was possible, but a strong deceased user’s skills were enough. “I surrender!” Feeling her Mental Energy drain and unable to counter, Kayla decisively gave up. But though she surrendered, she wasn’t convinced, full of questions: “Where’d the hail come from? Your Ability? But isn’t your Ability...” She faltered, then continued: “Isn’t it Control Track? That was clearly Attack Track!” “I just didn’t trap you in ice,” Jiang Tianming said calmly, giving her a meaningful look. He’d thought only they were scouting opponents, but Alpha’s students had investigated his [Object Control], prompting her challenge. Without his other Ability, he might’ve lost. Still puzzled by their intel failure, Kayla nodded and hurried off the arena. Lan Subing and Ai Baozhu rushed to celebrate, followed leisurely by Su Bei and Si Zhaohua. Ian tactfully left as they prepared to go, knowing Su Bei would eat with his classmates and not needing to intrude. Over lunch, Jiang Tianming explained why he fought. Like other classes, his teacher assigned a girl, Kayla, to look after him. But his class loved petty tricks. With many Control Track Abilities, mischief was easy—pulling his chair as he stood, messing up his desk, and other annoying but harmless pranks. These irritated Jiang Tianming, who planned to retaliate. But recalling Su Bei’s response to provocation yesterday, he considered telling the teacher might be best. Hearing this, Kayla stopped him, proposing the match. If he won, she’d ensure no more trouble from the class. If he lost, she’d protect him, having proven her strength by beating him. Either way, he’d have to fight someone. Jiang Tianming didn’t back down, agreeing for a permanent solution. That led to the earlier events. “You should have some peace now,” Lan Subing said enviously. “My class is eyeing me like predators. I wish someone would challenge me to settle it once and for all.” They hadn’t discussed her situation due to classes. Now, Ai Baozhu asked curiously: “Have you asked how Support Track competes? It’s probably not arena fights, right?” Lan Subing had inquired: “It’s about comparing support abilities, a bit like our monthly exams. For healers, they go to the infirmary. For buffs, they showcase effects for judgment. If there's a dispute, both pick similar-strength Attack Track students for a 2v2 match.” Smiling, she asked Ai Baozhu: “What about Defense Track? Since you lack strong offense, do you also need an Attack Track student to assist?” Lan Subing was half-right. Ai Baozhu nodded, then shook her head: “We need an extra person, but not Attack Track students—referee teachers, for maximum fairness.” Defense Track students were fairly calm, and Ai Baozhu’s fussy heiress aura intimidated them. Though some disliked her, none dared to challenge her today, waiting to see other exchange students first. Lan Subing suffered for being too polite. Despite being an heiress, her gentle demeanor made her an easy target. “Zhaohua, how’s your class?” Ai Baozhu asked after answering. Si Zhaohua mentioned his teacher’s arrangement, ensuring no worries today. Even without it, he was confident in his strength. Finally, all eyes turned to Su Bei. They’d guessed, trouble or not, he wouldn’t fight anyone, given his nature. But they were curious about any interesting class events. Thinking, Su Bei said: “I met Elvis, the [Time Hourglass] Ability user. He’s a class-hopper, the principal’s disciple. You’ll probably meet him too.” “Is he handsome? What’s his personality?” Ai Baozhu asked eagerly, Lan Subing’s eyes sparkling with curiosity. The first was easy: “Decent looking.” For the second, Su Bei pondered: “We only exchanged two sentences. Seems cold and aloof, but... maybe not as he appears.” Not that he saw secrets in Elvis' eyes; rather, someone who played games so poorly yet kept at it didn’t seem that aloof. This guess proved true the next day. Entering the classroom, Elvis approached, stopping at Su Bei’s desk. After a long silence, he said: “Come with me.” His aggressive, unfriendly demeanor didn’t faze Su Bei, who asked with interest: “What for?” “It’s quick, won’t delay class,” Elvis said grimly, his answer somewhat evasive. Anyone would think he was picking a fight, but Su Bei keenly sensed no provocation, or he wouldn’t mention not delaying class. Most importantly, Su Bei felt no Mental Energy fluctuations around Elvis. If he meant to fight, his Mental Energy would be restless—a lesson from Su Bei’s many arena battles. If not trouble, Su Bei was curious what Elvis, who seemed at odds with him yesterday, wanted to say. Thus, Su Bei met Elvis' gaze from his chair, stood, and walked out: “Let’s go.” Only after they left did the class exhale. They’d noticed when Elvis approached, as neither was easily ignored. A girl sighed: “Their auras are intense! It felt like swords drawn! Someone check, make sure they don’t fight!” Ian hesitated, then stood up: “I’ll go. Stay here.” Su Bei, led by Elvis, reached the school rooftop—a classic showdown spot. Without his judgment, he’d have bolted. Notably, Endless Ability Academy lacked a rooftop, their top floor pointed to deter suicide attempts. On the rooftop, Elvis cut to the chase: “Didn’t you say you wanted to fight the strongest? I should qualify, so fight me, and tell me the name of the game you played yesterday.” Su Bei: “...” The absurdity overwhelmed him, making him unsure where to start. First, he hadn’t expected Elvis' serious summons was for a game’s name. He’d thought Elvis ignored him after his retort, but apparently, he’d been sneaking peeks. Second... this was absurd! Who said he wanted to fight the strongest? He’d meant if forced to fight, it’d be the strongest. Not that he sought it out! Seeing Su Bei’s expression shift from shock to mockery, Elvis frowned: “Isn’t this what you wanted?” “I don’t lack opponents. Offer something I need,” Su Bei said leisurely, keeping it mild. Elvis hesitated, knowing asking “What do you need?” wouldn’t get an answer, or Su Bei would’ve said. He had to think. What did Su Bei need...? After a moment, Elvis met Su Bei’s eyes: “Tell me the game, and I’ll ensure no one challenges you during your exchange.” Su Bei’s eyes lit up, a smile flashing: “Deal.” Unafraid of betrayal, he shared the game’s name. Recalling Elvis' awful skills, unsure if he’d be as bad at shooting games, Su Bei generously added: “If you’re bad, come to me to carry you.” This “generosity” was, to Elvis, blatant mockery. His face chilled: “Hmph, I won’t be bad!” Su Bei laughed. Didn’t that scream guilty conscience? He said nothing, waving dismissively: “Sure, sure, you’re the best.” Elvis: “...” “What, you don’t believe I’ll play well?” he demanded coldly. Su Bei, heading downstairs, kept teasing: “Huh? No, why wouldn’t I believe you?” Elvis pressed: “Then why this attitude? Think I played poorly yesterday? I was just rusty with that character. I’m great with others!” Wasn’t that self-incriminating? Su Bei paused, turned, and stared for two seconds, finally saying: “You’re panicking.” Elvis broke: “You... you’re the one panicking! I’m not! My gaming...” “What’re you doing?” Ian’s voice came from the stairwell. His hair was mussed, breathing hard, clearly having rushed up. With someone else present, Elvis instantly dropped his flustered demeanor, reverting to aloofness. Glancing nervously at Su Bei, he said calmly: “Nothing, I’m heading back.” Su Bei nodded: “Let’s go, next class is starting.” Seeing Su Bei wouldn’t spill, Elvis relaxed, leading the way down. At the door, he turned: “After school, I’m challenging you.” Surprised, Su Bei raised a brow. Just after their deal, reneging so soon? “Backing out?” “No way,” Elvis scoffed. “I said no one else would challenge you, not me. Only after we fight can I legitimately stop others from challenging you.” So, like Kayla’s plan. But unlike Kayla, who used her Class Monitor status to stop challenges for Jiang Tianming, Elvis relied on being the “strongest.” Jiang Tianming might face other classes’ challenges, but Su Bei’s solution was permanent. Understanding, Su Bei agreed. [Time Hourglass] was strong, and he wasn’t sure he’d win. Victory was possible, but so was defeat. Su Bei didn’t mind losing. Losing to the school’s strongest wasn’t shameful, as long as he caused enough trouble. “Good, see you after school,” Su Bei nodded, agreeing. Said at the classroom door, the class overheard. Instantly, the room buzzed, students whispering to friends. Though soft, the many voices made it as lively as a market. This calmed only when the teacher entered, but students’ excitement persisted. Noticing, she asked curiously: “What’s up? Did something happen? You seem restless.” An eager student replied: “Teacher, Elvis is fighting the transfer student today!” Her gaze shot to Elvis in the corner. Knowing him better than two-day-old Su Bei, she knew the principal’s disciple wasn’t combative. “Elvis, what’s this about?” Elvis stood, hands in pockets: “Just want to fight.” Frowning, she looked at Su Bei: “And you? You’re willingly fighting him?” Su Bei nodded calmly: “Want to see Elvis' strength.” Seeing both were willing, with no coercion, she let it go. With a referee, no lives were at risk, so she'd let them fight. If Elvis won, it’d showcase their strength to the friendly school. If Su Bei won—though she thought it unlikely—it wasn’t all bad. Elvis' Ability made him too dominant among peers; a setback could temper him. After class, Class 1’s gossip stirred, but Elvis' coldness deterred them, and Su Bei’s stranger status made him unapproachable. So, they subtly signaled Ian to dig into what happened. Ian, curious himself, asked quietly: “Su Bei, why the sudden fight? Why’d Elvis call you out?” “Guess,” Su Bei replied, treating all unwanted questions equally. Seeing his reluctance, Ian tactfully shifted: “Confident you’ll win? His Ability’s [Time Hourglass]. Need details on it?” “No need,” Su Bei shook his head. For time-based Abilities, knowing details wouldn’t boost his odds much. Losing despite knowing would only invite worse mockery. Better to keep it fair. Dismissal came quickly. Su Bei waited at the door for Elvis, and they walked to the field side by side. A crowd followed—nearly the whole class, growing as news of Elvis vs. the transfer student spread to other classes. Naturally, Jiang Tianming’s group heard. They rushed to the field, baffled at how Su Bei crossed Elvis. Since Su Bei mentioned him at lunch, they’d researched Elvis that afternoon, understanding his first-year status. “What’s going on?” Lan Subing followed the crowd anxiously. “Didn’t Su Bei say they barely interacted at noon? How’d they end up fighting?” Ai Baozhu was less worried: “Slow down, don’t fret. You don’t know Elvis, but don’t you know Su Bei? When has he ever put himself in real danger?” Fair point. Si Zhaohua nodded: “Their fight must have a reason, and Su Bei might not lose. [Time Hourglass] is strong, but [Destiny Gear] is equally enigmatic.” “We’ll see soon,” Jiang Tianming said, striding forward calmly. “This is a chance to observe [Time Hourglass]. If Su Bei wins, great. If he loses, we can learn from it and plan counters.” Losing one to their year’s strongest was fine, but all five losing would be disastrous.