Category: I’m Surrounded by My Own Pets!

Chapter 160: Moonlight Rabbit, Shining Evolution!!! p2

“Awakening!!!”

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

With three seconds left until the battle began, Lian Xing finally activated the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s Awakening. As rocks and debris flew through the air, the cloud peak cracked, and a brilliant white aura erupted from the Moonlight Rabbit, shooting into the sky. Although it was instantly dispersed by the Ancient Species’s aura, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain had still achieved Awakening, its form transforming.

Awakening…

At Commander-Tier…?

How was that possible???

They had only seen the awakened form of the Royal-Tier Star-Shattering Moon-Pounding Rabbit, never the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s.

Under everyone’s curious gazes, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s tail grew larger, transforming into a giant, white, furry ball, hanging behind it like a tumor, a bizarre and unnatural sight. Then, countless white, wing-like ears sprouted from both sides of the fleshy ball, resembling a giant angel egg…

[Six Ears Fully Unleashed · Awakened Form]

[Life crystal’s location shifted, body parts and physical form changed, inherited talents (White Whiskers) (Lowered Brow) temporarily enhanced.]

[Throwing method changed, range, power, and accuracy increased, windup time halved.]

“…”
“…”

As the countless ears on the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s fleshy tail twitched, the final second of the countdown ticked away.

This was the beginning…

and the end…

Floating high in the sky, the Ancient Species, the Yellow Springs Beckon, glanced down.

“Boom!!!!”

Without warning, the mountains and clouds around the Heaven-Gracing Curtain and the golden-haired girl disintegrated, and they were lifted into the air, their footing gone.

At the same time, brilliant lights erupted from Lian Xing’s lineup, one after another.

[Star Order]

[Starless Shackles]

[North Wind]

[Floating Cloud]

[Samadhi]

[Illustrious Form]

[Spectral Severance]

[Sun Sonata, consuming 2000 Flame Notes]

[Half Moon Slingshot X20]

[Six Court Refraction]

“Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom!!!!!”

Led by the Sun Harp’s barrage of Golden Wheel rings, a wave of flames engulfed the Ancient Species in the sky. However, facing this relentless assault, the sulfur-colored Water Elemental, the Yellow Springs Beckon, didn’t even blink, its body unfazed by the attacks.

What was even more shocking…

Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Samadhi talent was negated the moment it touched the Ancient Species. Even Star Sand’s Starless Shackles, upon attaching, were half-destroyed, the remaining portion slowly being corroded by the watery aura, seemingly about to disappear completely.

At this moment, a wave of despair washed over the audience.

Was the Ancient Species’s resistance that high…?

Even the rarity of the 72 Legends couldn’t penetrate it?

At this moment, the only one who could even touch the Ancient Species’s aura was the Sun Harp. Its countless Golden Wheel rings, constantly changing trajectory, bombarded the Ancient Species with 20 instant Green Quality Half Moon Slingshots, finally creating a tiny crack in its aura.

But in the next second, the crack closed…

Finally, Rainwater couldn’t take it anymore and extended its hand, trying to rewind the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s state. But the moment it raised its hand, it suddenly realized…

The Heaven-Gracing Curtain hadn’t moved at all!!

Wait, the Sun Harp was firing independently? It wasn’t being thrown by the Heaven-Gracing Curtain!?

Why weren’t they attacking together!?

Not only Rainwater, but even Tears Maiden’s eyes widened slightly in confusion.

Meanwhile, facing this seemingly hopeless situation, the golden-haired girl’s expression remained calm.

From the beginning, her goal had been to have the Heaven-Gracing Curtain land a single hit on the Ancient Species at point-blank range. Only then could it bypass the opponent’s aura and directly hit its physical body.

For this, she had to endure a certain level of helplessness and despair…

The moment it was killed, that would be the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s chance to counterattack.

Finally, under Lian Xing’s gaze, the Yellow Springs Beckon moved.

“Boom!!!!”

“Boom, boom, boom, boom!!!!!”

The moment it moved, without any warning, Lian Xing’s entire lineup crumbled.

A wave of watery aura shattered the wind elemental particles that Star Sand had scattered throughout the Dominating Cauldron Palace. Star Sand, with its Formless talent, its undying nature, its damage percentage instantly reached 97.225%, almost instantly killed by the aura.

At the same time, Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral World and its barrier were also shredded by the yellow, watery foam, its dragon form, enhanced by Illustrious Form and North Wind, instantly vanishing.

And the Sun Harp’s countless afterimages also disappeared, replaced by a stream of yellow, watery foam.

“Buzz—”

In this frozen world, the Yellow Springs Beckon had appeared before the golden-haired girl, a finger extended towards the white Moonlight Rabbit, a pale yellow, watery energy gathering at its fingertip, like a volcano about to erupt.

This was…

The attack that had instantly pierced through 1500 regions!!!

Facing this terrifying aura, the golden-haired girl seemed to have given up, standing motionless beside the Heaven-Gracing Curtain, offering no resistance.

However, under everyone’s tense gaze…

“Pop.”

A sound like a soap bubble bursting.

The expected devastating attack didn’t arrive.

The Yellow Springs Beckon looked down at its finger, confused.

For some reason, its watery energy had vanished the moment it was unleashed…

It had clearly hit the Heaven-Gracing Curtain, but it hadn’t even caused a ripple!!!

“Whoosh——!!”

At this moment, under Tears Maiden and the Yellow Springs Beckon’s incredulous gazes, a white, fluffy aura shield appeared around the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s body. Unlike Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s shield, which could be shattered by the aftershock of an attack, this shield’s durability was so high that even the Yellow Springs Beckon couldn’t comprehend it.

But after being attacked, this one-time shield also dissipated…

Sensing this familiar aura, Tears Maiden’s eyes narrowed.

“This is…”

“The Moonwalker Mother!!!”

The Moonwalker Mother had actually given its aura to Lian Xing!!!

This thickness was unbelievable…

At this moment, Tears Maiden’s heart was in turmoil.

She had thought that after evolving into an Ancient Species, the Yellow Springs Beckon would be able to reach the Moonwalker Mother’s level.

But it was still far behind, its attack not even creating a ripple against the Mother’s aura shield!!!

“Now!!!”

Taking advantage of Tears Maiden and the Yellow Springs Beckon’s momentary lapse in concentration, Lian Xing shouted.

At some point, her distorted eyes had returned to normal, their starlight twinkling with unprecedented excitement.

At the same time, the countless ears on the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s tail gathered, aiming at the motionless Yellow Springs Beckon, assuming a throwing stance.

“Whoosh—”

In the next second, darkness fell.

Without warning, the moon in the sky vanished…

Replaced by a giant, illusory, silver crescent moon blade.

A dense, silver Pet Essence energy began to coalesce at the tips of the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s ears, instantly covering the entire Dominating Cauldron Palace, the crescent moon’s arc extending outwards.

Finally, the silver crescent moon covered the sky above 180 regions on either side of the Dominating Cauldron Palace.

[Awakened Form · Six Ears Unleashed]

[Flexibility Enhancement]

[Shining Ammo]

[Wrist Bone Duel (Green) X30]

[Sand Toss (Crimson) X30]

[Star Plucker (Crimson) X30]

[Flurry, Combo, Power Throw, Moon’s Grace X30]

[Aurora Hammer X30]

And…

The Shining combat skill, Waxing and Waning!!!

Fall, moon—

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

In the next second, as the giant silver crescent moon was launched, the Yellow Springs Beckon’s sulfur-colored body twitched, unable to resist, sent flying.

“Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang, bang, bang, bang—”

Amidst the deafening explosions, the blurry, silver crescent moon, carrying the Yellow Springs Beckon, shattered one regional boundary after another, Monarch and Emperor-Tier defensive barriers alike instantly crushed. This wasn’t just the power of the Shining combat skill, Waxing and Waning, but also the Ancient Species’s own powerful body. Everywhere it passed, everything was flattened, cities and mountains sent flying.

Soon, the Yellow Springs Beckon vanished from sight.

At this moment, silence fell.

In the dark, silent Dominating Cauldron Palace, Tears Maiden, whose expression had been indifferent since her arrival, finally opened her mouth slightly, her face filled with shock.

And the livestream viewers were dumbfounded.

Moon Rabbit Lian Xing…

What had she done!?

The Heaven-Gracing Curtain had actually sent flying…

An Ancient Species with a single attack!!!?

Baiyue Province, the Beast Tamer Alliance, and all the regions watching the livestream were all stunned, unable to comprehend this scene.

It was absurd…!!

How was this possible?

It was just a Commander-Tier Heaven-Gracing Curtain!!!

Meanwhile, looking at the Heaven-Gracing Curtain, its body wreathed in white flames, Rainwater finally reacted, extending its hand towards the direction where the Yellow Springs Beckon had been sent flying, trying to use its Life Status Rewind ability.

“Buzz!!!”

But in the next second, as a white aura pulsed, the Pet Essence gathering in Rainwater’s hand dispersed…

A strange shockwave had emanated from the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s giant tail, interrupting Rainwater’s spellcasting.

[Inherited Talent: Lowered Brow]

[Releases a shockwave of solidified Pet Essence, interrupting enemy channeling or spellcasting.]

Seeing this, Rainwater sneered and aimed its hand again. But this time, it wouldn’t charge its attack.

“Bang!!”

In the next second, before it could even react, Rainwater’s head was shattered by a casual Star Plucker + Aurora Hammer combo from the Heaven-Gracing Curtain.

As Rainwater reformed its elemental body, its expression turned to fury.

Seeing this, Lian Xing frowned slightly and said to the Heaven-Gracing Curtain, “That’s enough. Don’t get greedy~~~”

“This battle is over. Stop now~~~”

After this powerful throw, which had sent the Ancient Species, the Yellow Springs Beckon, flying, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s level had jumped to around 700.

Lian Xing was satisfied. Now she just had to forfeit.

After all, an Ancient Species’s durable body couldn’t be destroyed by a single attack.

It had simply been sent too far away…to return immediately.

Now, as long as she forfeited, they would win!!

No, she wasn’t forfeiting, she had simply…

Violated the rules…!!

Since she had traded combat skills with the Hidden Moon Marquis, she had already cheated. There was no such thing as winning or losing!!!

With her shameless logic, Lian Xing had erased the consequences of defeat.

However, just as Lian Xing turned to leave the battlefield…

The Heaven-Gracing Curtain remained motionless, its gaze fixed on the direction where the Yellow Springs Beckon had been sent flying.

“Boom!!!!!”

In the next second, a massive, yellow flood, seemingly covering the entire sky, descended, sweeping across the Pet Beast World, returning to the original battlefield, the Dominating Cauldron Palace. Under everyone’s horrified gazes, the Water-type Pet Essence from countless regions, even the seemingly infinite ocean in Worry-Free Pond, was drained…

Chapter 160: Moonlight Rabbit, Shining Evolution!!! p1

The All-Pet Beast Tournament. After a fierce competition, the top four were finally decided!

Tears Maiden, the unchallenged ruler of the Seven Heavens, the Ancient Legend Beast Tamer, stood at the pinnacle of the Pet Beast World with a 99% approval rating!

Next was Moon Rabbit Lian Xing, the dual-Legend holder of Star Sand and Calamity Sun, who had consecutively defeated Dead Ash, Jade Lady, the Second Princess, and Little Flower Goddess, all fellow T0 contenders.

The Second Princess of Youyou Leize, the descendant of the Great Emperor Yun Jianyou, her reputation slightly diminished after losing to Lian Xing, but not significantly.

And finally, the champion of the City of Awe, who had luckily reached the top four without encountering any T0 opponents. Even Little Flower Goddess had been eliminated, yet she had advanced. Many viewers believed that Little Flower Goddess or Snow Sun would have been more deserving of a spot in the top four.

After a day of rest, the lottery began. The commentator would draw a name from the box, and that person would then choose their opponent.

And luckily the City of Awe champion was chosen.

Under everyone’s gaze, the yellow-haired girl from the City of Awe casually drew a slip of paper, then, without even looking at it, declared, “I forfeit.”

The three remaining names were Tears Maiden, the Second Princess, and Lian Xing.

Facing any of them would result in her utter defeat, so there was no point in even looking.

The Monarch-Tier commentator, after glancing at the slip of paper, announced, “The result is Tears Maiden. Therefore, the remaining participants, the Second Princess and Moon Rabbit Lian Xing, will face each other in the semi-finals.”

At this moment, the venue fell silent.

Almost all the viewers looked at the purple-haired woman and the golden-haired girl in the waiting area, their expressions strange…

What a coincidence…

The Second Princess and Lian Xing were facing each other again!!?

But this time, the Second Princess would probably forfeit, right…?

However, to everyone’s surprise, the Second Princess didn’t forfeit, instead staring at the golden-haired girl with a grim expression.

“Yun Jianyou, it’s time for revenge~~~”

“…”
“…”

Yes, in these few short days, Returning Dust had evolved into the Royal-Tier Yun Jianyou!!!

The outcome of this battle would be different!!!

However, just as the Second Princess felt a surge of confidence, Yun Jianyou within her sighed softly.

“Give up. We have no chance. We’ll be instantly killed…”

“Haven’t you seen her eyes?”

“She’s ready to face the Ancient Species!!”

“Child, with your current resolve, you can’t stop her…”

Hearing Yun Jianyou’s words, the Second Princess’s eyes widened in shock.

She had planned to forfeit against Tears Maiden after defeating Lian Xing.

But how…?

Was Lian Xing actually planning to challenge that Ancient Species…?

At this moment, under the golden-haired girl’s intense gaze, the Second Princess’s forehead was covered in sweat, and she shook her head weakly.

“I forfeit…”

With a look of resignation, she turned and left.

Unable to face the Ancient Species, she was no longer qualified to stand in Lian Xing’s way…

Thus, the Second Princess was eliminated in the top four…

Now, only Tears Maiden and Lian Xing remained in the arena.

Under the gaze of the entire Pet Beast World, the golden-haired girl remained silent. Almost everyone was waiting for her to forfeit, but she didn’t speak, her silence making the Monarch-Tier commentator uneasy.

“Moon Rabbit Lian Xing, are you planning to participate in the finals?”

“Are you sure you want to fight against Tears Maiden?”

In the next second, as Lian Xing nodded slightly, gasps of disbelief echoed throughout the venue, even Dead Ash, Thunder Fly, and Jade Lady, watching from the spectator area, were shocked.

What was Lian Xing doing?

Weren’t she and Tears Maiden…lovers…?

Had they had a fight?

A misunderstanding?

Or was it…domestic violence…?

The Monarch-Tier commentator was also stunned, taking a while to recover.

“Do you have any requests? Time limit, map changes, or anything else?”

“I’m fine with anything. It’s up to her~~~” Tears Maiden said softly, as if she had anticipated this.

“If possible… tomorrow night…” Lian Xing said after a moment of silence, making a small request.

This wasn’t unreasonable, even humble, so it was quickly approved.

After the time was set, Tears Maiden walked towards the golden-haired girl.

“Lian Xing, I knew we would reach this point. I knew you would be the one to stand before me… So…”

“Can I assume that you have a way to threaten an Ancient Species?”

“I won’t hold back in this battle…” With that, Tears Maiden walked past Lian Xing, disappearing from sight.

Lian Xing didn’t say anything, also turning to leave.

30 hours remained until the final battle.

Inside the Beast Tamer Alliance’s airship, docked at the Dominating Cauldron Palace…

“Lian Xing, what are you thinking!? Forfeit!”

“It’s enough! The Beast Tamer Alliance will give you 15 Limit-Breaking Seeds, and I’ll personally give you a Green Quality combat skill! So just end it here…” the Hidden Moon Marquis, dressed in a court gown, pleaded anxiously.

Lian Xing, representing the Beast Tamer Alliance, had reached the finals, which had thrilled them, but her next actions were incomprehensible…

Couldn’t she sense that Ancient Species’s pressure…?

Even the Royal-Tier Dark Ink Candlelight had been instantly killed. How could Star Sand and Calamity Sun, mere High-Tier pet beasts, even survive a single attack!?

Meanwhile, Dead Ash, Zi Meng, Moon Princess, Chiyu, and the other participants also looked at the silent, golden-haired girl with mixed expressions.

Her five pet beasts were Star Sand, Calamity Sun, Mist Colt, Moonlight Rabbit, and Golden Leaf. They were all known. How could she possibly fight against an Ancient Species?

Where did Lian Xing get her confidence!?

And some were still wondering about that Azure Shadow Device…what was its role in her lineup?

It was like Little Flower Goddess’s Reincarnated Soul physique, she had somehow acquired a sixth pet beast…

At this moment, unnoticed by anyone, Zi Meng, the captain of Shining Girls, her expression was complex…

Although with her current level, she couldn’t simulate a battle involving an Ancient Species…

Lian Xing…

I see…

So this is…that battle…?

“Hidden Moon Marquis, do you have a Weapon Species pet beast?” Lian Xing suddenly asked.

Hearing this, the Hidden Moon Marquis felt a surge of unease and nodded cautiously.

“Can I borrow its combat skills?” Lian Xing asked again.

“…”

“…”

“Absolutely not, Lian Xing! That’s cheating!!!”

“You’ll be disqualified!!!” Moon Princess exclaimed in disbelief.

In the All-Pet Beast Tournament, some serious violations resulted in a permanent ban, such as using Emperor-Tier relics or deploying non-contracted pet beasts. But there were also minor violations with less severe penalties—

Like temporarily using someone else’s combat skills.

This was usually difficult to detect, and even if it was discovered, you could just claim it was a normal trade…

But…

Using an Emperor-Tier Beast Tamer’s pet beast’s combat skill…

How could that possibly go unnoticed!?

However, in the next second, to everyone’s surprise, the Hidden Moon Marquis, without hesitation, removed its four combat skills and handed them to Lian Xing. Then, it smiled, its expression relieved…

“Congratulations, Lian Xing, you’ve successfully secured second place in the All-Pet Beast Tournament. I’m proud of you~~”

“…”
“…”
“Now, don’t die…”

Lian Xing nodded, taking the four combat skills and leaving silently.

Yes, the moment Lian Xing cheated, she had already lost the match.

So, what came next wasn’t a competition anymore.

It was a suicide mission…

Back in her private room, after entering Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space with the four Weapon Species combat skills, Lian Xing immediately examined them. Since the Hidden Moon Marquis’s Weapon Species pet beast was only Monarch-Tier, its combat skills were also ordinary, just two Green Quality and two Crimson Quality.

However, after observing them for a while, Lian Xing only equipped the Sun Harp with one Green Quality combat skill, tossing the other three into a corner.

This action was confusing.

Just replacing one Green Quality combat skill wasn’t enough to be considered cheating…

Why had she made such a big deal about trading with the Hidden Moon Marquis, only to use so little…?

This strange behavior was as if she were deliberately trying to break the rules…

[Half Moon Slingshot (Green)]

[Passive Effect: For bow-type Weapon Species, the sharper the change in trajectory during flight, the greater the impact and destructive power. Effect halved for other ranged Weapon Species.]

[Active Effect: A bow-type Weapon Species locks onto a target. After a sharp, half-moon shaped change in trajectory, the attack is guaranteed to hit. Effect halved for other ranged Weapon Species.]

After equipping this combat skill, Lian Xing fed her pet beasts, checked their moods and status, then lay down on the bed and slept.

Meanwhile, that night, something unbelievable happened…

[April 14th, 427622, 2:00 AM, a Cycle of Calamity remnant, one of the Four Calamities, a mutated Moonlight Rabbit Emperor, descended upon the 2nd-level region, Dark Abyss Sea. By throwing Calamity Sun, it broke through Snow Flower’s domain, allowing a large number of Cycle of Calamity remnants to escape. The Emperor’s whereabouts are currently unknown.]

[Calamity Sun, one of the 72 Legends, has been confirmed to be not contracted to Moon Rabbit Lian Xing and is currently a wild pet beast.]

The next day, the day of the final battle.

As night approached, and the moonlight shone down, the golden-haired girl finally appeared on the cloud peak battle arena in the Dominating Cauldron Palace. And Tears Maiden, her hair styled in a conch shell fishtail, was already waiting.

Tears Maiden had been waiting here since morning.

After the Ancient Species’s appearance, only Lian Xing hadn’t forfeited, truly standing before her… So, she would also give it her all.

However, seeing the golden-haired girl, the livestream viewers began discussing in disbelief.

Moon Rabbit Lian Xing…

She wasn’t a dual-Legend holder anymore…

In that case, her chances of winning against Tears Maiden were even lower…

It was incomprehensible.

Without any chance of winning, why was she even here!?

At this moment, under everyone’s gaze, the golden-haired girl in white stockings, her starry eyes now distorted vortexes, her long, beautiful hair almost reaching the ground, stood before Tears Maiden. This time, she hadn’t styled her hair in buns. As the cool night breeze blew, her golden hair fluttered, revealing her beautiful face.

“Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh—”

In the next second, four pet beasts – the Heaven-Gracing Curtain, the Sun Harp, Dreamflow Sunset Glow, and Star Sand – appeared behind her, their powerful auras, unleashed without restraint, filling the battlefield.

But…clearly…

With this lineup’s level, they couldn’t defeat an Ancient Species…

They couldn’t even resist its aura, let alone injure it.

Lian Xing was destined to lose!!!

At this moment, all she could do was let the countless viewers witness the invincible power of an Ancient Species!!!

“Boom!!!!!”

In the next second, a sulfur-colored shockwave, like a tsunami, spread outwards.

The world shook, the earth trembled.

Under everyone’s shocked gazes, a sulfur-colored, liquid-like Water Elemental, as if bathed in molten lava, appeared in the sky above the Dominating Cauldron Palace, its presence overshadowing even the giant cauldron, the moonlight itself seeming insignificant before it. And in its hand, it held a tiny, translucent, blue Water Elemental.

The Ancient Species, the Yellow Springs Beckon!!!

And Rainwater, one of the 72 Legends!!

Facing this terrifying lineup, Lian Xing’s chances of winning were practically zero…!!!

This wasn’t even a fight…

It was like the difference between a god and a mortal…

Even Dark Ink Candlelight had been instantly killed. What could these mere High-Tier and Commander-Tier pet beasts possibly do!?

However, for some reason, at this moment, as the golden-haired girl stood on the peak, looking up at the Ancient Species in the sky, she felt no fear, no hesitation.

At this moment, she had only one thought…

Just one hit!!!

No matter what, I have to hit it once!!!

A few seconds later, the preparation phase began.

Under everyone’s gaze, the countdown ticked by.

“Awakening!!!”

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Chapter 159: Dueling the Ancient Species

All-Pet Beast Tournament, Dominating Cauldron Palace.

At this moment, looking at the sulfur-colored Water Elemental in the sky, like a god, both the audience in the venue and the livestream viewers were speechless, awestruck.

Just seeing how many pet beasts had fled back to their masters’ bodies after a single glance from it…

It was clear how terrifying its presence was, even the 72 Legends couldn’t escape its influence.

There was no need for analysis or detection. The moment this Ancient Species was born, everyone instinctively understood its existence.

[No Tier — Ancient Species — The Yellow Springs Beckon]

This was…

The ultimate evolution of the Water Elemental, an Ancient Species!!!

At this moment, hiding inside Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space, Lian Xing’s starry eyes widened, her fingernails digging into her palms.

This…she hadn’t anticipated this at all…

She had actually encountered a true Ancient Species in the All-Pet Beast Tournament!!!

Yes, unlike Dead Ash’s Ancient Juvenile Species…

This was a true, complete Ancient Water Elemental!!!

Although Lian Xing didn’t know the Ancient evolution path requirements for a Water Elemental, she knew it couldn’t be easy. It wasn’t something that could be achieved through shortcuts…!!

Even with Rainwater’s reset ability, evolving into an Ancient Species at this age and stage…it was unbelievable, practically impossible.

Tears Maiden…

She was truly chosen…

Before this, every seemingly random action she had taken might have contributed to this Ancient Species evolution.

It was because of Beast Tamers like this that the first Ancient Species, Shining Species, and even Fallen Species had appeared!!!

“Such a pitiful child…” Rainwater, rescued by the Ancient Species, looked at the white-haired girl behind it with a look of pity.

The Yellow Springs Beckon’s attack, piercing through 1500 regions…

Snow Sun, caught in the aftershock, couldn’t possibly survive. Half of her body had been pulverized, her head gone…

However, in the next second, under Rainwater’s gaze, Snow Sun’s life force began to rewind, her body slowly regenerating. A moment later, the revived girl opened her eyes, looking at Tears Maiden, Rainwater, and the Yellow Springs Beckon in disbelief.

“Why…why did you save me…?”

“…”
“…”

Facing Snow Sun’s trembling voice, Tears Maiden didn’t answer, simply recalling Rainwater and the Yellow Springs Beckon, then casually left the scene. Perhaps, in her eyes, this hadn’t even been a battle…

Just a god exhaling, accidentally affecting some insects…

But for Snow Sun, this must have been humiliating…

Even if she had to die at the hands of an Ancient Species, she wouldn’t want to be saved by her opponent’s pity…

However, she no longer had the courage to challenge Tears Maiden.

Watching Tears Maiden’s retreating figure, the entire Pet Beast World fell silent.

Even in the Pet Beast World’s 400,000-year history, there had never been a Beast Tamer who had evolved an Ancient Species at such a young age.

Perhaps, in the near future, Tears Maiden would be the one to open the Sanctuary Gate…

“…”
“…”

At this moment, Lian Xing felt a mixture of jealousy, fear, awe, and excitement, all the emotions a normal person would feel towards an Ancient Species. She had also, for a brief moment, considered forfeiting her match against Tears Maiden.

With her current lineup, she wasn’t ready to face an Ancient Species.

But at the same time, a cruel glint appeared in her starry eyes.

“This Ancient Species…it has a weakness…”

“If it has a weakness…then it’s not invincible…”

“If it’s killed…it will still be its final!!!” Lian Xing muttered, her eyes narrowed.

Clearly, for an Ancient Species, which had no concept of tiers, this newborn Ancient Species hadn’t reached the peak of the Pet Beast World.

This was obvious…

Although Ancient Species didn’t have tiers, they could still be measured by their level. For example, Lian Xing’s Ancient Moonlight Rabbit in her previous life, after evolving, its level had been over thirteen thousand, also known as an Ancient Species Emperor.

But this Ancient Species’s level had been reset, incredibly low, and it didn’t have any efficient methods of leveling up!!!

This was the disadvantage of using Rainwater for assisted evolution…

For this Ancient Water Elemental, leveling up would be incredibly difficult!!!

But Lian Xing’s turbulent thoughts quickly subsided, and she shook her head, pinching her cheeks until they were red.

“I’m delusional… What am I even thinking, challenging a true Ancient Species!?”

“Even if it has a weakness, it’s not something we can exploit at our current level. This idea is too unrealistic…!!!”

“I have to give up…” Facing the newly born Ancient Water Elemental, her only option was to retreat. Lian Xing wasn’t the type to destroy her own evolution path on a whim.

Even she had her limits…

After a moment, Lian Xing squatted down, hugging her knees.

That night…

Lian Xing stayed inside Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space, squatting in a corner. The Moonlight Rabbit, the Golden Leaf, the Mist Colt, Star Sand, and the Great Lord Biluo, all in their Juvenile forms, simply stayed beside her, silently guarding her.

That night, countless people couldn’t sleep.

That night, thousands of pet beasts, wanted by the Seven Heavens, surrendered themselves.

Overnight, Worry-Free Pond gained over seven hundred subordinate regions, its influence far surpassing Youyou Leize and the City of Awe.

As the sun rose the next day, the third resurrection match began. Snow Sun’s two main pet beasts, Dark Ink Candlelight and Swallow God, had been defeated, so she forfeited without any hesitation.

In the end, Thunder Fly successfully returned, entering the top eight.

Thus, the top eight participants of the All-Pet Beast Tournament were decided: Tears Maiden, Little Flower Goddess, the Second Princess, Thunder Fly, Lian Xing, the Saintess candidate of Worry-Free Pond, the champion of the City of Awe league, and the champion of the Youyou Leize league.

However, unlike the viewers’ excitement, the atmosphere among the participants was grim, their expressions somber…

After all, the moment the Ancient Species, the Yellow Springs Beckon, appeared, the nature of this tournament had changed.

They had trained and fought so hard to reach this point, but they were now just witnesses and stepping stones for Tears Maiden’s ascension.

That day, the top 8 to top 4 matches.

Thunder Fly versus Tears Maiden. Thunder Fly forfeited, stopping at the top 8.

The Second Princess versus the Saintess candidate of Worry-Free Pond. The Saintess candidate forfeited.

The City of Awe league champion versus the Youyou Leize league champion. Neither forfeited.

And then—

Lian Xing versus Little Flower Goddess.

Since two of the four matches were forfeits, after the City of Awe champion won, it was immediately time for Lian Xing and Little Flower Goddess’s battle. Under the viewers’ gaze, even after the commentator called her name several times, Lian Xing, still inside Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space, didn’t move.

She hadn’t even realized that she had been in Shared Travel for an entire night.

However, noticing this, Little Flower Goddess, inside her palanquin, her eyes narrowed sharply.

“Did this woman stay in her Viral Space the entire night after hiding there yesterday?”

“Has she been using Shared Travel all this time…?”

“…”
“…”

Under everyone’s gaze, after a long delay, the golden-haired girl finally walked onto the battle area. The Dominating Cauldron Palace, which had been destroyed by the Yellow Springs Beckon yesterday, had been restored, but the lingering aura of the Ancient Species was still palpable…

Just standing here, remembering Snow Sun’s fate, was enough to make their legs go weak…

Finally, the battle began.

Just like last time, Little Flower Goddess didn’t attack first.

And Lian Xing didn’t rush to attack either, unlike Dead Ash.

After a moment of silent confrontation, a red light erupted from the palanquin, engulfing the golden-haired girl.

“Whoosh——!!!!!”

Inside a newly created Viral Species void…

As the red mist dissipated, Lian Xing slowly opened her eyes.

And she instantly understood why Dead Ash had been so thoroughly defeated…

Before a giant, blood-red palace, twelve giant pet beasts stood guard, and a pink-haired girl with peony-shaped buns stood atop a towering, sky-reaching plant. Eight multicolored, petal-like tails swayed behind her loose-fitting yukata, and a flower bud-like mouth, filled with thorns, opened and closed, saliva dripping everywhere, as if she were a hybrid with a carnivorous plant.

This was why Little Flower Goddess never revealed her true form in public.

Although her face was beautiful, this hybrid form was a bit unsettling…

After a brief glance, Lian Xing looked at the plant-like pet beast beneath Little Flower Goddess.

Throne-Level Monarch-Tier, Biological Species, Tianzhu New Year…

Not only the Tianzhu New Year, but there were two other Monarch-Tier pet beasts present.

So that was it…

This was why, even with its full power, the Ancient Juvenile Species, Extinction, hadn’t been able to even touch Little Flower Goddess…

In terms of lineup level, Little Flower Goddess was undoubtedly the strongest present!!!

“You don’t seem surprised…”

“So Dead Ash has already told you, hasn’t she? I have the Reincarnated Soul physique, two life crystals, and can contract twice the number of pet beasts~~~”

Hearing Little Flower Goddess’s explanation, Lian Xing nodded indifferently. She not only knew that Little Flower Goddess had the Reincarnated Soul physique, but also that Beast Tamers with this physique essentially had two separate lineups, allowing them to level up by having their pet beasts fight each other.

This was why Little Flower Goddess, despite her young age, already had three Monarch-Tier pet beasts. Because even while she was sleeping, she could have her two teams fight each other, automatically leveling up in the background!!!

Looking at the golden-haired girl with the cold expression, Little Flower Goddess tilted her head slightly and smiled gently.

“But you don’t seem very motivated~~~”

“Actually, neither am I. I’ve already given up on winning the championship. Honestly, I just want to go home, get married, and have children…”

“Speaking of which, Lian Xing, you’ve been maintaining Shared Travel this whole time, right?”

“That means you’re a Viral Species hybrid with a high bloodline purity…”

“I really like your looks and your talent. I really want to take you back to the City of Awe.”

“So…” Little Flower Goddess’s gentle expression turned serious, and her tone changed.

“If you’re anything like you claimed earlier, I won’t let you leave so easily. I’ll forcefully complete the reproduction process here, then take your bloodline back with me. Although our generation can’t defeat Tears Maiden, our offspring might have a chance. This is the secret to the City of Awe’s prosperity… Please don’t resist too much, I don’t want to hurt you~~~~”

“…”
“…”

Little Flower Goddess was actually planning to forcefully impregnate Lian Xing inside her void, in front of the entire Pet Beast World…

However, looking at the thorny, saliva-dripping flower petals behind Little Flower Goddess, Lian Xing, after a long silence, shook her head indifferently.

“Whoosh!”

In the next second, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain emerged from the void. This time, she wasn’t using the Sun Harp, nor Star Sand’s sealing ability, nor Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Samadhi talent to disrupt Little Flower Goddess’s void.

Lian Xing had simply chosen to deploy the Commander-Tier Heaven-Gracing Curtain alone…

Meanwhile, seeing Lian Xing’s weak attempt at resistance, Little Flower Goddess’s flower petal mouth swayed even more vigorously, saliva dripping everywhere.

Just then, Lian Xing spoke.

“Little Flower Goddess, you misunderstand. I haven’t decided to forfeit yet…”

“I’m just thinking…if I were to land a single, decisive blow and then forfeit immediately, would that be considered a victory for me?”

As Lian Xing’s hesitant words echoed, under Little Flower Goddess’s puzzled gaze…

“Whoosh—”

With a sickening sound of tearing flesh, countless white ears erupted from the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s back. Then, enveloped in crackling green lightning, its 30 ears raised, their tips aimed forward, a brilliant, holy light converging at a single point.

[Six Ears Fully Unleashed]

[Flexibility Enhancement]

[Flurry X30]

[Power Throw X30]

[Combo X30]

[Wrist Bone Duel (Green) X30]

[Sand Toss (Crimson) X30]

[Star Plucker (Crimson) X30]

[Aurora Hammer X30]

[Shining Ammo]

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

A deafening roar shattered their eardrums and their very souls.

30 thick, white beams of energy erupted from the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s ears, their destructive power annihilating almost the entire void, finally piercing through Little Flower Goddess’s entire lineup. Enhanced by the Aurora Hammer’s Shining energy, even the Tianzhu New Year, a Monarch-Tier pet beast, was instantly vaporized.

The world seemed to collapse, the pink-haired girl silently watching as her lineup was obliterated, her vision and consciousness fading.

But at this last moment, her expression turned to concern…

“It’s impossible, Lian Xing, give up!!!”

“Although your pet beast’s combat power is indeed strong, this level of burst damage can’t even scratch their protective auras…”

“What you’re trying to do…it’s impossible…!!!”

“The path of beast taming can blur the lines, but it can’t defy reality…!!!”

“Don’t be so delusional~~~~”

“…”
“…”

A moment later, the palanquin shattered.

As the red void collapsed, the golden-haired girl, unharmed, and the unconscious pink-haired girl reappeared on the screen. Lian Xing glanced at the unconscious Little Flower Goddess, then turned and left without looking back.

Along the way, the Second Princess and Thunder Fly tried to greet her and offer congratulations.

However, seeing the golden-haired girl’s eyes, they stopped, a sense of unfamiliarity and fear washing over them.

“Little Flower Goddess, you were wrong…”

“I’m not wrong. I won’t give up, I won’t back down!!”

“Because in this world, victory and defeat aren’t just about life and death…”

“…”

“…”

“I will fight against the Ancient Species, and I will win!!!”

At this moment, the star patterns in the golden-haired girl’s eyes had transformed into swirling, golden vortexes.

Moon Rabbit Lian Xing, advancing to the top four!!

Chapter 158: An Ancient Species is Born!!!

All-Pet Beast Tournament, at the Dominating Cauldron Palace. As the audience watched in a mixture of confusion and curiosity, Thunder Fly silently left the stage.

What was with that expression!? Few had heard what Lian Xing had whispered, but Thunder Fly’s indescribable expression, it was like she had just seen her pet beast eating something disgusting…

So, what exactly were Lian Xing’s preferences…? Were they that…bizarre…?

Could it be that even hybrids weren’t enough for her, that she needed a violent Biological Species to conquer her?

Or perhaps she wanted to challenge an Emperor-Tier pet beast with her human body…?

The viewers’ imaginations ran wild.

Thus, Thunder Fly’s journey ended in the top 14. If she wanted to advance from the resurrection match, she would have to face either Tears Maiden or Snow Sun, a nearly impossible task.

After this domestic dispute, which wasn’t exactly a proper battle, the next few matches began. Almost every participant who had reached this round possessed peak Royal-Tier combat power.

For example, the three-time champion of the Youyou Leize league, this year’s champion from the City of Awe, and the Saintess candidate from Worry-Free Pond. Their battles were almost as intense as the Ancient Juvenile Species, Extinction’s, performance, just a step below the T0 contenders.

If this had been a few years ago, when there was a gap in talent due to the age limit, without so many monsters and Legend Beast Tamers, they might have even won the championship…

Finally, it was time for the last match of the day.

Tears Maiden versus Snow Sun!!

Rainwater versus Black Sun Flame!!!

The ultimate battle between water and fire…!!!

Under everyone’s gaze, amidst the silence…

“…”
“…”
“Drip, drip, drip—”

A light drizzle began to fall from the sky. Although the sky above the Dominating Cauldron Palace was covered by the Emperor’s cauldron, it was somehow permeated by this strange rain.

Soon, almost all the participants’ clothes were soaked, even their protective auras couldn’t repel the rain.

Lian Xing was no exception. Crystal-clear, blue raindrops trickled down her smooth, white neck, soaking her legs and even her translucent, knee-high stockings. She had initially been concerned about getting wet, but seeing Star Sand staggering and disoriented, like it was carsick, seemingly unaffected by the rain, she gave up on staying dry.

Just then, under everyone’s gaze, Snow Sun, the ice-cold, white-haired girl, walked towards the battle arena on the cloud-covered peak, the rain falling on her without any effect. And Tears Maiden, coiling her fishtail and hair, creating a large, conch-like hairstyle, a strange yet elegant look, walked towards Snow Sun.

This was Tears Maiden’s first battle in the tournament…

Under the watchful eyes of Little Flower Goddess, the Second Princess, Thunder Fly, and Lian Xing, the blue-haired girl with a fishtail, her cold, teardrop-stained face as if she were crying, stood before Snow Sun.

Snow Sun’s vigilance increased to its maximum.

In the next second, a black, fiery scroll unfurled behind her, the spiraling black flames coalescing into a burning, black, elemental figure.

Dark Ink Candlelight, the Royal-Tier form of Black Sun Flame, one of the 72 Legends!!!

At the same time, Tears Maiden raised her hand.

“Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!!”

As a vortex of clear, transparent water droplets appeared in her palm, a tiny, pure Water Elemental emerged, two pairs of beautiful, dreamlike swan wings, formed from flowing water, flapping gently behind it.

This was…

Rainwater, one of the 72 Legends, Royal-Tier!!!

As the two Legends appeared, Returning Dust also emerged from the Second Princess’s body, seemingly wanting to observe the battle up close. Ephemeral and Star Sand, however, remained hidden within Thunder Fly and Lian Xing, respectively, showing no signs of movement.

Time ticked by, the countdown nearing its end.

The audience’s anticipation reached its peak.

3…2…1…

“Buzz—”

The moment the battle began, Dark Ink Candlelight, the black, fiery elemental figure, extended an arm and casually swiped at the air. Instantly, along its arm’s path, all the way to the edge of their vision, all the Pet Essence and air turned to ash, as if the world itself had been bisected…

Lian Xing knew that Black Sun Flame had two…exaggerated…characteristics: its attacks had unlimited range, and its flames couldn’t be extinguished unless it chose to… And this evolved, Royal-Tier Black Sun Flame…its abilities must be even more powerful…

However, at this moment, under Dark Ink Candlelight’s attack—

The Supernova Water Elemental on the other side simply flapped its swan wings, and the apocalyptic scene before them vanished…

“Whoosh—”

In the next second, not only did Dark Ink Candlelight’s form revert to its initial state, but even the rain falling from the sky above the Dominating Cauldron Palace seemed to reverse for a few seconds.

“…”
“…”

As Snow Sun’s cold expression turned grim, almost all the viewers were stunned.

What kind of strange ability was that!?

Dark Ink Candlelight’s attack had been reversed…!?

Was this Rainwater’s power…?

Yes, this was the Legend that even the Moonwalker Mother had praised…

Seeing this, Lian Xing shook her head silently.

Rainwater could rewind the state of anything. Although it wasn’t an offensive type, if the battle continued, Dark Ink Candlelight’s level would gradually decrease…

As expected, the moment Lian Xing thought this, the black, fiery elemental figure’s form flickered…

No one could win a war of attrition against Rainwater…

Its only option was a quick and decisive victory!!!

“…”
“…”
“Boom!!!!!”

In the next second, with a deafening roar, the entire cloud-covered mountain began to tremble. An explosive aura erupted from Dark Ink Candlelight, countless black meteors raining down indiscriminately, exploding before they could even reach Rainwater.

In an instant, the sky above the Dominating Cauldron Palace, for tens of millions of kilometers, was engulfed in a sea of black flames. The scorching heat made the temperature rise rapidly, and not only the participants, but even the Monarch-Tier commentator was sweating profusely, its tongue lolling out.

Meanwhile, under the cover of the black flames, Dark Ink Candlelight grabbed the pale scroll behind it and, with a “Whoosh!”, pulled out a giant, black brush, its size larger than a house, looking comically oversized in its hand.

Monarch-Tier, Weapon Species, Swallow God…

Seeing this pet beast, Lian Xing felt a surge of unease…

She wondered if Tears Maiden knew about Swallow God’s ability.

No, with her vision obscured, she probably couldn’t see…

“Whoosh!”

The moment Dark Ink Candlelight’s attack was rewound by Rainwater, it used Swallow God to swipe at Rainwater.

In the next second, the black flames in the sky vanished…

Just as everyone thought Dark Ink Candlelight had run out of options, the space between it and Rainwater suddenly disappeared, and the tiny Water Elemental was pulled towards it.

“Snap!”

Dark Ink Candlelight clasped its hands together, trapping Rainwater within.

Then, the ash-colored scroll behind it began to extend infinitely.

“Awakening!!!”

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!”

As a black light erupted, the Pet Essence in the sky above the Dominating Cauldron Palace began to dissipate, as if the world itself was fading. Except for the cloud-covered peak where the spectator area was located, the surrounding mountains and clouds were obliterated…

At this moment, looking at the beautiful yet terrifying display of black sparks, almost all the viewers were silent.

So strong…!!!

Meanwhile, both Ephemeral and Star Sand were stunned. They had thought Dark Ink Candlelight had run out of options, but it had found a way to counter Rainwater’s ability in just a single move, even activating its ultimate, Awakening, not giving Rainwater any chance to retaliate…

Dark Ink Candlelight’s awakened form only lasted for a brief moment.

But during that moment, all matter within its aura range, regardless of its defensive capabilities, would be erased, all enemies reduced to blank slates, a truly devastating ability.

Even Dreamflow Sunset Glow, with its powerful defense, would be instantly incinerated…

As for Returning Dust, although its Purity talent could block the attack…

If it was touched like Rainwater, it would also be instantly destroyed…

After all, Swallow God didn’t need to break through Returning Dust’s Purity shield. It just needed to erase the space between them.

“I have to admit, this combination…it’s truly powerful…” Lian Xing muttered, impressed.

Dark Ink Candlelight’s destructive power far surpassed Calamity Sun’s. If not for the Emperor’s aura protecting them, not only the Dominating Cauldron Palace, but even the surrounding regions would have been obliterated…

Perhaps only Calamity Sun, evolved to Commander-Tier and thrown by the Heaven-Gracing Curtain at full power, could match Dark Ink Candlelight’s destructive power.

Meanwhile, Rainwater, unable to rewind its opponent in time, could only desperately try to…rewind…itself, but as the flames intensified, it could no longer hold on, its life crystal beginning to crack.

But for some reason…

Tears Maiden, watching all this, her expression remained calm and indifferent.

“Wait, why isn’t she activating Awakening!?” Lian Xing narrowed her eyes, noticing this.

If Rainwater activated Awakening here, it should still have a chance against Dark Ink Candlelight.

So why wasn’t Tears Maiden using it!?

Suddenly, Lian Xing felt a surge of unease, remembering what the Moonwalker Mother had told her.

“Wait, Tears Maiden has rewound her pet beast hundreds of times!?”

“Wasn’t one level reset enough? Why…hundreds of times…!?”

“Even if she was dissatisfied with its evolution path, she couldn’t be that obsessive, right!?”

“I understand…there’s only one thing in this world that requires hundreds, even thousands, of evolutions to achieve!!!” At this moment, Lian Xing’s starry eyes widened.

Although she still couldn’t quite believe it…

She didn’t hesitate.

“Whoosh!!!!!”

In the next second, under the viewers’ confused gazes, the golden-haired girl with buns suddenly entered her pet beast’s Viral Space.

What was going on!?

At such a crucial moment, why had Moon Rabbit suddenly…hidden…?

Just as everyone was wondering, as a powerful aura erupted around Tears Maiden, Returning Dust, as if sensing something, its pure white eyes widening…

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Without warning, an ethereal life force burst forth from Tears Maiden, and the sky above the Dominating Cauldron Palace cracked. All the clouds and mountains within their field of vision collapsed, sinking into the earth amidst a deafening roar. The Pet Essence within the Dominating Cauldron Palace became chaotic, the space itself distorting, even the immovable Emperor’s cauldron trembled.

All the pet beasts within this chaotic force field cried out in pain.

Meanwhile, not only the Dominating Cauldron Palace, but also the 637 surrounding regions began to sink…

And then, under everyone’s horrified gazes, the Emperor’s protective aura shattered, all the participants, even the Monarch-Tier commentator, sent flying.

…

…

And then, at that moment, a few people saw it.

At the edge of Dark Ink Candlelight’s awakened domain, a sulfur-colored Water Elemental stood. Despite being within Dark Ink Candlelight’s all-consuming…aura, its Pet Essence flow and life force remained stable, something even Emperor-Tier pet beasts couldn’t achieve.

It was as if it were a projection from another dimension…

And then, this Water Elemental, withstanding the full power of the awakened Dark Ink Candlelight, extended a finger.

“Boom!!!”

“Boom!!!!!”

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

After three consecutive tremors, the world cleared…

The first tremor instantly shattered Dark Ink Candlelight’s awakened domain, its black, elemental form dissipating, half of Snow Sun’s body gone…

The second tremor broke through the Dominating Cauldron Palace’s boundaries, affecting 1500 smaller regions.

The third tremor, over 1500 regions away from the Dominating Cauldron Palace, shattered the protective barrier of Youyou Leize, a region on the other side of the Pet Beast World.

At this moment, the sound and color of this part of the Pet Beast World began to fade.

The entire sky was covered in a sulfur-colored vortex of water, all Pet Essence drained…

And in the next second, as the yellow Water Elemental lowered its head, the entire world fell silent.

Returning Dust, which had been protecting the Second Princess with its Purity talent, instinctively retreated to its pet beast space.

And throughout the entire Pet Beast World, even those who were only watching the livestream, the moment their eyes met the Water Elemental’s, countless small pet beasts hid within their masters’ bodies.

“…”
“…”
“How…absurd…” Meanwhile, hiding inside Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space, Lian Xing, her hands clenched so tightly that they were bleeding, watched in shock.

With the arrival of this pet beast, this All-Pet Beast Tournament had become…a farce…

There was no point in continuing.

Because this was…

[No Tier — Ancient Species — LV1]

[The Yellow Springs Beckon!!!]

 

Chapter 157: Shining Combat Skill: Waxing and Waning 

Combat skill qualities, from lowest to highest, were: White, Blue, Purple, Deep Purple, Gold, Dark Gold, Red, Crimson, Green, Fluorescent, Black—and finally, Shining!!!

Compared to the vibrant, multicolored Fluorescent quality, Black and Shining seemed…ordinary…

But their rarity was unparalleled, each one unique, just like the 72 Legends. This meant that for any type of combat skill, only one Black Quality card could exist in the Pet Beast World. This was why most Emperors had to…settle…for Fluorescent combat skills.

And Shining combat skills were even more abstract and elusive…

First, their uniqueness.

According to records, a Shining combat skill’s uniqueness extended even beyond this Pet Beast World, to the new world beyond the Sanctuary Gate…

No matter where in the universe, the birth of a Shining combat skill meant that it was the only one of its kind.

Second, their growth potential.

A Shining combat skill’s initial power was comparable to a Black Quality combat skill, but if its upgrade conditions were met, it could far surpass even hundreds of Black Quality combat skills.

Third, they were bound to a pet beast’s will, not taking up a skill slot, and couldn’t be removed. When the pet beast died, the Shining combat skill would also disappear, then randomly reappear somewhere in the Pet Beast World at a later time.

Even among Sovereign-Tier Emperors, those who possessed Shining combat skills were incredibly rare. This was because their scarcity made trading them impossible…

Like the Azure Sky Emperor, a Viral Species, which had somehow obtained a throwing-type, Biological Species Shining combat skill. It had been useless to it, left to gather dust in its warehouse.

And finally, a Shining combat skill was the most difficult requirement for a Shining Species evolution path…

Unlike Ancient Species, which had hundreds of evolution requirements, most Shining Species only had a dozen or so, but each one was incredibly difficult, all interconnected, their combination a distant dream…

[For example, undefeated in reality.]

[Perfect evolution…]

[As the only main battle pet beast in the lineup, its tier cannot be lower than its companions.]

[Cannot already be Emperor-Tier, must have an available evolution path.]

[Equip a Shining Quality combat skill.]

These conditions, at first glance seemed reasonable…but…

If you weren’t an Emperor, how could you even compete for a Shining combat skill against other Emperor-Tier pet beasts!?

And the tier requirement meant you couldn’t pursue the Shining path for a support pet beast if you already had a stronger main pet beast. You couldn’t invest resources beyond its current tier, eliminating any shortcuts…

But at this moment, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain had actually obtained a Shining combat skill.

Luck…it was the most important factor in all three special evolution paths!!!

[Shining Combat Skill — Waxing and Waning]

[Cannot be activated in a Pet Beast World without a moon.]

[Cannot be activated during the day.]

[Cannot be activated during a full moon.]

[After each activation, the moon will temporarily disappear]

[Each activation permanently shortens the night in the Pet Beast World by one hour.]

[The closer to the 72 Legend, [First Quarter], the greater the power of Waxing and Waning, and the less restrictive its conditions.]

[The closer to the 72 Legend, [Frost Flower], the weaker the power of Waxing and Waning, and the more restrictive its conditions.]

If the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s path to Shining had previously been a distant dream…

Then, at this moment, simply by obtaining this Shining combat skill, it had already half-crossed the finish line.

This small step had covered most of the journey.

After a brief moment of shock, Lian Xing immediately equipped it. After all, Shining combat skills were bound to a pet beast’s will, not taking up a skill slot.

[Commander-Tier — Biological Species — Heaven-Gracing Curtain LV421]

[Talent: Flexibility Enhancement, Heavenly Ruler]

[Awakening: Mastered]

[Arcane Art: Flurry, Combo, Power Throw, Moon’s Grace, Shining Ammo, Aurora Hammer]

[Combat Skill: Wrist Bone Duel (Green), Ten Intentions Annihilation (Crimson), Star Plucker (Crimson), Sand Toss (Crimson)]

[Bloodline Combat Skill: Six Ears, Eclipse]

[Shining Combat Skill: Waxing and Waning]

The Heaven-Gracing Curtain was now incredibly strong!!

As long as it didn’t encounter Returning Dust, it could even face Royal-Tier pet beasts like Rainwater and Black Sun Flame.

Returning Dust’s Purity talent was too effective against ranged attacks.

Both the Heaven-Gracing Curtain and the Sun Harp would be crippled…

Even if she threw Calamity Sun at it, the moment it touched that white barrier, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s throwing enhancements would be negated, leaving only Calamity Sun’s basic newborn level power.

At this moment, after equipping the Moonlight Rabbit with the Shining combat skill, Lian Xing looked at the Mist Colt.

“Mist Colt, you’ve been a great help. Is there anything you want? Anything Mommy can do, I’ll do it for you!!”

“…”
“…”
“I want to go back into that Emperor’s cauldron again~~”

“I saw something before, but it was too far away. I didn’t have time to get it. I need about five minutes!!” the Mist Colt replied after a moment of hesitation.

It hadn’t just seen it, it knew its exact location. But it had only been able to stay inside the cauldron for less than two minutes each time.

And now, with the Dominating Cauldron Palace on high alert, letting the Mist Colt enter again would be impossible…

“Five minutes…?”

“Although there are no specific rules about the rewards, the champion has a lot of privileges. Perhaps you can request to enter…”

“No matter what, Mommy will try her best to fulfill your wish. If all else fails, we’ll just take it…~~~” Lian Xing said, nuzzling the Mist Colt, then turned her attention to the two Black Quality Emperor-Tier crystals.

However, before she could examine them, a knock echoed. Lian Xing gestured, and the Moonlight Rabbit hopped over to the door and opened it.

A purple-haired woman in a translucent silk nightgown entered.

The Second Princess of Youyou Leize…

Her long, purple hair was styled in a ponytail, her face slightly flushed, as she nervously approached the golden-haired girl, who was sitting on the bed with her legs crossed.

“Lian Xing, can you remove the seal on Returning Dust? No matter the cost, no matter your request, I’ll agree to it!!”

“…”
“…”

Hearing this, Lian Xing glanced at the Mist Colt, which nodded silently.

Returning Dust had helped her obtain two Biological Species Emperor-Tier crystals. As promised, she would give one to it and have Star Sand remove the Starless Shackles.

Only Beast Tamers would lie. Pet beasts rarely did.

At this moment, in this ambiguous atmosphere, Lian Xing’s gaze lingered on the purple-haired woman’s attractive figure.

She would fulfill her pet beast’s promise, of course, but that was between Returning Dust and the Mist Colt. Just letting the Second Princess benefit without any compensation…it seemed a bit wasteful…

“Take off your nightgown!!” Lian Xing said, her arms crossed, her expression serious, her tone commanding.

She had expected the Second Princess, with her demure appearance, to refuse, or at least show some shame or resistance…

However, to her surprise, the Second Princess seemed prepared…

She closed her eyes and lowered her head slightly, and her translucent nightgown slipped to the floor.

How experienced… Lian Xing swallowed hard, then took out her phone and started recording.

“Don’t worry, I won’t share this. It’s just for my personal enjoyment… After all, you’re Thunder Fly’s sister~~~~~” Lian Xing said meaningfully.

This was a clear threat…

The implication was that if the Second Princess ever disobeyed her, she would immediately send these recordings to Thunder Fly.

Hearing this, the purple-haired woman’s body trembled, her face burning red.

However, for some reason, Lian Xing felt that this woman was actually enjoying this humiliation…

Five minutes later, the Second Princess, with a Monarch-Tier life crystal that had once belonged to a speed-focused pet beast, left the room.

Shortly after her departure, a purple figure, hidden in the shadows of the hallway, peeked out, its lightning-filled eyes slightly unfocused.

Thunder Fly had come here tonight, wanting to ask about Jade Lady and Tears Maiden.

But she had witnessed something even more shocking…

Her sister…doing that in Little Star’s room!!!

Meanwhile, Lian Xing, having detected Thunder Fly’s presence with the Azure Mechanical Heart’s radar, didn’t really care. After all, she and Thunder Fly were just friends, not lovers…

And just being near Thunder Fly would make her body go weak from the electrical field. Being lovers would be difficult…

Thinking of this, Lian Xing checked her phone, looking at the three pinned messages.

[Silver Dragon: Did you kiss yet?]

[Little Tears: The competition is getting more intense. I suggest you…refrain from excessive indulgence. Of course, this is just a suggestion. I’m not trying to interfere with your personal life, I don’t have the right, just a friendly reminder.]

[Swine: Good night, Lian Xing baby.]

After pondering for a moment, she replied to each of them:

[No.]

[Okay.]

[Oh.]

Then, turning off her phone, she began examining the remaining Emperor-Tier crystal. This dark, prism-shaped life crystal had once belonged to the Wuwei Whitebrow, a Biological Species defeated by the Azure Sky Emperor. Honestly, the Wuwei Whitebrow’s resistance to the Heaven-Gracing Curtain made Lian Xing frown.

Although their abilities weren’t compatible, it was still a Biological Species Emperor. It must be much stronger than the Nether Crystal Hand’s Heavenly Ruler talent. So, Lian Xing, ignoring the incompatibility, gave it to the Moonlight Rabbit.

After all, unlike the Fluorescent combat skill, North Wind, which wasn’t unique, and could be denied, the Wuwei Whitebrow had been publicly defeated by the Azure Sky Emperor. The information was readily available online. So, she couldn’t possibly have traded for it. This was like dancing naked on the Dominating Cauldron Palace’s head. It was a bit too much…

[Absorbed the residual Pet Essence from the Emperor-Tier crystal. Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s level increased to 487.]

[Nether Crystal Hand’s life crystal replaced by Wuwei Whitebrow.]

[Heavenly Ruler’s enhancement effect overwritten.]

[Inherited Talent: White Whiskers — Increases defense based on fur thickness. Due to incompatibility, only 30% effective.]

[Inherited Talent: Lowered Brow — Periodically releases a shockwave of solidified Pet Essence, interrupting enemy channeling or spellcasting. Due to incompatibility, cannot interrupt any attacks.]

Seeing the inherited talents, Lian Xing frowned even deeper.

No wonder the Wuwei Whitebrow had been so resistant to the Heaven-Gracing Curtain. These talents were completely useless…

But it was better than nothing. She could use them as temporary enhancements. Perhaps after Awakening…

---

---

The next day, All-Pet Beast Tournament, resurrection match.

Without any suspense, the Second Princess won. After all, her Returning Dust hadn’t been defeated in the previous match and had fully recovered after a night’s rest. Both Dead Ash and Jade Lady had forfeited. Dead Ash’s Ancient Juvenile Species, Extinction, had been defeated, and she had no chance of winning. And Jade Lady, after begging the other consorts, had only received insults and mockery.

After monopolizing Lian Xing’s affection, none of the consorts were willing to share their pet beasts with her anymore, not even if she begged…

And that Monarch-Tier master had forfeited not because of Lian Xing, but because she didn’t want to give free experience to Returning Dust. Her pet beast was also a ranged attacker.

And seeing the Second Princess return, the other T0 contenders’ expressions turned grim. Especially Tears Maiden and Snow Sun. Their Rainwater and Black Sun Flame were completely countered by Returning Dust’s talent, even with the tier difference, they might not be able to win.

But thankfully, in the following top 26 to top 13 matches, none of the top contenders faced each other.

Lian Xing’s opponent in this round was a mature woman from Worry-Free Pond, who forfeited the moment she saw the match pairings.

Lian Xing’s current strength and popularity were even higher than the Second Princess and Snow Sun. Besides Tears Maiden, there was no one who could challenge her.

On the fourth day, the participant who emerged from the second resurrection match was from Youyou Leize.

And then, on the fifth day, the top 14 to top 7 matches…

The moment the pairings were revealed, almost all the viewers were stunned.

First match, the Second Princess’s opponent forfeited.

Second match, Little Flower Goddess’s opponent forfeited.

Third match, Lian Xing VS Thunder Fly.

Seventh match, Tears Maiden VS Snow Sun.

Although the battle between Lian Xing and Thunder Fly was interesting, there wasn’t much suspense. Thunder Fly’s chances of winning were practically zero…

But the two Royal-Tier Legend Beast Tamers, Tears Maiden and Snow Sun…they were facing each other!!!

This match would be as epic as the battle between the Second Princess and Lian Xing!!!

And this was also Tears Maiden’s first battle in the All-Pet Beast Tournament!!

Could Black Sun Flame, which believed in incinerating everything, challenge the unstoppable Tears Maiden and Rainwater?

Everyone’s curiosity was piqued, eagerly awaiting the final battle of the day.

And since the first two matches were forfeits, under everyone’s gaze, the first to battle were Lian Xing and Thunder Fly. Under the Second Princess’s worried gaze, the two girls walked onto the cloud-covered peak.

At this moment, standing opposite the distracted purple lightning elemental girl, Lian Xing frowned slightly.

Thunder Fly should know that she wasn’t a match for her.

Even if she stood still and let Thunder Fly attack for an entire day, it couldn’t break through Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s shield.

But with Thunder Fly’s personality, she wouldn’t give up easily.

And she couldn’t go all out against her. This was troublesome…

Just as Lian Xing was feeling helpless, the lightning elemental girl looked up, her eyes teary.

“Little Star, are you going to…hit…me?”

“Uh…” Although Lian Xing wanted to say, “Little sister, I’m not falling for that”, she couldn’t bring herself to do it, shaking her head.

Even though she didn’t have any romantic feelings for Thunder Fly, they had still spent six months together, training and growing stronger. It wasn’t easy to fight against a friend…

And Lian Xing wouldn’t intentionally lose, then fight her way back from the resurrection match.

She wouldn’t lose, no matter the opponent.

No one, nothing, could stand in the way of her evolution.

“…”
“…”
“Please don’t waste time standing around. It’s been a minute!!” the commentator’s warning voice echoed.

A minute into the battle, and they were just standing there…

This was the All-Pet Beast Tournament, watched by the entire world! The only way to determine the winner was through pet beast battles, not rock-paper-scissors…

“Shut up!” However, in the next second, the golden-haired girl turned and glared at the Dominating Cauldron Palace Monarch on the commentary desk.

The Monarch-Tier pet beast immediately fell silent, its face flushed, tears welling up in its eyes.

Meanwhile, ignoring the commentator’s interruption, Lian Xing continued to look at Thunder Fly.

After another half a minute, Thunder Fly finally spoke again.

“Little Star, I’ll forfeit. But before that, I want to know…what kind of type do you like?”

“Do you like mature and seductive beauties…like my sister? Or…slippery tentacles…like Tears Maiden? Or…someone…lewd and skilled…like Jade Lady?”

“…”
“…”

At this moment, as Thunder Fly’s soul-searching question echoed, the livestream chat erupted.

So this battle is a…domestic dispute…!!

They loved watching domestic disputes!!!

Only Lian Xing was mortified, standing there awkwardly, scratching her face, looking away.

“I’ll tell you when we get home, okay!?”

“No! You have to tell me now! Every time I hint at it, you just play dumb…!!!” Hearing Thunder Fly’s resentful voice, most viewers were amused, but a few felt a pang of familiarity…

Especially when they remembered those sleepless nights caused by those three simple replies: [No], [Okay], [Oh]…

Lian Xing…

She was a woman of sin…

She was only interested in those she hadn’t conquered yet, teasing and tempting them until they were obsessed, then losing interest completely.

It was the same with the Second Princess, who had been waiting anxiously every day, thinking that Lian Xing would use those compromising photos to blackmail her, but then nothing. It was as if Lian Xing had completely forgotten about her.

Under everyone’s gaze, they all waited for Lian Xing’s answer, eager to learn more about her preferences…

“…”
“…”
“Fine, I’ll tell you, but you can’t tell anyone!!” So, Lian Xing beckoned Thunder Fly closer.

As Thunder Fly floated over, tilting its ear expectantly…

Lian Xing whispered something, and not only Thunder Fly’s expression changed drastically, but almost all the T0 contenders also looked at the slightly blushing, golden-haired girl with shock and disbelief…

Tears Maiden, Snow Sun, the Second Princess, Little Flower Goddess…their values and understanding of ethics were shattered…

Of course, only Beast Tamers of their level could hear such a soft whisper. The other participants and the livestream viewers couldn’t hear it.

“Actually, I like being dominated by someone I’m not close to, or even an enemy. It’s not as exciting with someone I know~~~”

Lian Xing’s exact words.

Personal preference, nothing to do with pet beasts.

Any similarities are purely coincidental.

 

Chapter 156: Shining Combat Skill, The Path to Shining!! p2

Inside the Azure Sky Emperor’s cauldron…

Dreamflow Sunset Glow, carrying Returning Dust, charged through the space. Here, it no longer bothered with pretenses and activated Three-Inch Incense’s talent.

[Samadhi]

“Whoosh!!!”

A rainbow-colored, viral force field expanded.

Enveloped by this force field, Returning Dust’s aura weakened, its Awakening duration halved. And with North Wind’s Pet Essence draining effect, the horse-woman’s face quickly turned pale, as if she had been drained of all her energy.

“Bang!”

However, in the next second, Dreamflow Sunset Glow released her.

It retreated, looking at the weakened horse-woman, and said, “You have less than a minute of Awakening left. I’ve already won. Stop fighting.”

“Now, go and collect those. I’ll take you out, and we’ll split the loot. I’ll have my little sister, Star Sand, remove the seal later.”

“…”
“…”
“Alright.” After a moment of hesitation, Returning Dust nodded reluctantly.

Then, with a “Whoosh!”, the two figures split up and began searching… Activating auto-loot, they scoured the interior of the Azure Sky Emperor’s cauldron. The Pet Essence concentration here was too high for Returning Dust, a Biological Species, to hide its presence, so it needed Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space as cover.

Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s current speed, enhanced by its new evolutions, was far greater than during its Cloud Dream Calamity phase, instantly surpassing the distances it had previously covered. And Returning Dust’s speed was also incredible, leaving no blade of grass unturned. Whenever it encountered a High-Quality Biological Species combat skill, it would immediately replace its own. This was the only way it could keep the loot without it being stolen by Dreamflow Sunset Glow.

Outside, everyone was waiting for the battle’s outcome, unaware that the two pet beasts inside were treasure hunting…

Returning Dust’s Purity talent could even ignore an Emperor’s aura, allowing it to move freely within the relic.

Soon, Returning Dust found an Emperor-Tier Biological Species life crystal.

But it frowned.

Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s master, Lian Xing, also had a Biological Species pet beast, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain.

If it simply handed over this crystal, it would probably be confiscated by Dreamflow Sunset Glow.

So, it needed to find another Emperor-Tier Biological Species crystal…

Ignoring the distant, flickering green lights, Returning Dust continued its search.

And Dreamflow Sunset Glow, sprinting in a single direction, ignored any lights that were too far away. With Mist Walk at maximum power, combined with Illustrious Form’s Leap, its speed surpassed that of most Monarch-Tier pet beasts, leaving a trail of light in the darkness.

Finally, after almost a minute, it saw a familiar, pure white light.

It was…

A White Quality combat skill card.

White…the lowest quality…

Even a dog wouldn’t look twice at it.

In most games, white represented the starting level…

But the light emanating from this combat skill card was strange, its brilliance unnatural, its color shifting with the Pet Essence flow.

“With my current strength, I can’t defeat Rainwater or Dark Ink Candlelight.”

“So, I’ll leave it to you…”

“Heaven-Gracing Curtain…”

“You have to defeat them all…!!!” With that, Dreamflow Sunset Glow stored the strange white card in its void, then quickly returned to the entrance, its body exhausted.

A few dozen seconds later, Returning Dust and Dreamflow Sunset Glow met near the entrance, both looking drained… Returning Dust had even deactivated its awakened form.

“Here you go~~” Returning Dust said weakly, collapsing beside Dreamflow Sunset Glow, handing over two Black Quality Emperor-Tier crystals.

Dreamflow Sunset Glow didn’t even look at them, storing them directly in its void. They had been inside for over 90 seconds. Any longer, and they would be in trouble.

So, it lifted the unresisting Returning Dust above its head and carried it out of the Azure Sky Emperor’s cauldron.

“…”
“…”
“Whoosh!!!!!”

Above the clouds of the Dominating Cauldron Palace…

Under the watchful eyes of countless mysterious beings, Dreamflow Sunset Glow tossed the weakened Returning Dust out of the cauldron.

Seeing Returning Dust falling through the clouds, almost all the viewers gasped.

The new generation’s equivalent to the Great Emperor Yun Jianyou had been defeated!?

And in a 1v1 duel…!!!

Although Star Sand’s sealing ability had been a factor, and it wasn’t a fully evolved Royal-Tier Yun Jianyou yet…Returning Dust, one of the 72 Legends, had been defeated by the same-tier…Dreamflow Sunset Glow!!!

The enhancements from the Fluorescent combat skill, North Wind, and Three-Inch Incense’s viral barrier were too powerful. Even Returning Dust, in its fully awakened Legend form, hadn’t been able to break through its shield.

After all, for a battle between mere Commander-Tier newborns, these enhancements were unfair…

A few seconds later, under Thunder Fly and Ephemeral’s shocked gazes, and the disbelief of the other Youyou Leize Beast Tamers…

The white horse crashed into a cloud-covered peak, creating a massive cloud of dust and debris.

The dust settled.

The battle was over…

After that, Dreamflow Sunset Glow returned to Lian Xing’s body.

And Lian Xing waited for about three minutes before the Second Princess, in her purple court dress, reappeared on the battlefield. She looked at the disheveled, golden-haired girl, shook her head, a mixture of surprise and resignation on her face, then, after recalling Returning Dust, left without looking back.

“…”
“…”

Under everyone’s gaze, as they looked at the stunning, golden-haired girl, her hair flowing in the wind, a strange silence fell over the arena.

At this moment, Snow Sun, the beautiful woman with snow-white skin, white hair, and snowflake-like eyes, narrowed her gaze. And Tears Maiden, silently coiling her fishtail and intertwining it with her blue hair, forming a large conch shell hairstyle, her teardrop-shaped eyes burning with an unprecedented fighting spirit.

Although she had helped Lian Xing by sending her a couple request…

It didn’t mean she would go easy on her in battle.

If Lian Xing reached the end, they would definitely face each other…

Thus, after Jade Lady and Dead Ash, the Second Princess, another highly anticipated T0 contender, was eliminated.

Now, only five T0 contenders remained.

Thunder Fly of Youyou Leize, the master of Ephemeral.

Little Flower Goddess of the City of Awe, the Super Hybrid with the Reincarnated Soul physique.

Snow Sun of the Wind Sand Region, the master of Black Sun Flame.

Tears Maiden, the Saintess of Worry-Free Pond, the seventh lord of the Seven Heavens, the master of Rainwater.

And…

Moon Rabbit Lian Xing, the dual-Legend holder of Star Sand and Calamity Sun, who had defeated both Jade Lady and the Second Princess!!!

However, a cruel trial awaited her…

“Whoosh!”

Under everyone’s nervous gazes, the Emperor-Tier pet beast that had questioned Lian Xing earlier reappeared at the center of the battlefield, its sharp gaze fixed on the seemingly beautiful, but…secretly lewd, golden-haired girl. It glanced at Tears Maiden in the spectator area, ignoring her warning glare, then walked towards Lian Xing.

“North Wind, is it?”

“Yes~~~” Lian Xing replied with a smile, her voice light and carefree.

“So…where did you…find…it?”

“I…traded for it~~~”

“With whom?”

“You’re not qualified to know!!”

The Emperor’s tone had initially been calm. However, in the next second, the golden-haired girl’s demeanor changed, her expression turning arrogant and condescending.

Instantly, the atmosphere became tense.

Although the Emperor was trying to suppress its aura, facing this superstar, it couldn’t completely contain its anger, a terrifying pressure emanating from it.

And then—

“Smack!!!”

However, this wasn’t the sound of the Emperor’s aura, but of a slap…

Under everyone’s stunned gazes, Jade Lady, having used her once-in-a-lifetime teleportation, had appeared out of nowhere and slapped the Emperor across the face.

This was clearly a sign of madness…!!!

The Dominating Cauldron Palace Emperor’s expression froze.

Seeing this, Jade Lady chuckled awkwardly.

“Little Sister-in-Law, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to. I just slipped~~”

“Let me clarify something. That North Wind wasn’t a relic of the Azure Sky Emperor. It was a gift from one of Lover’s consorts who’s fond of Lian Xing. Although I personally don’t like Lian Xing, I can clearly see this through our shared memories.”

“I misjudged the situation last time, so I’m here to clear Lian Xing’s name. She’s the best woman in the world! Kind, virtuous, and would never do something like auto-loot…!!!”

“Bang!!!!”

In the next second, the moment Jade Lady finished speaking, the Dominating Cauldron Palace Emperor slapped her into dust…

Even a fool could tell that Jade Lady was lying, defending Lian Xing against her conscience.

But since she had already said those words in front of the entire Pet Beast World, the Dominating Cauldron Palace couldn’t pursue the matter any further…

After venting its anger on Jade Lady, the Emperor glared at Lian Xing, then vanished.

“Menopause…such a bad temper…” Lover’s consorts couldn’t die.

Jade Lady quickly reformed, scratching her head in frustration.

However, in the next second, something unexpected happened.

Under the incredulous gazes of Tears Maiden, Thunder Fly, all the participants, and countless viewers, Lian Xing gently placed her hand on Jade Lady’s head, stroking it with a gentle smile.

“Good girl, there, there~~~”

“…”
“…”

Seeing this intimate scene, the audience erupted.

Thunder Fly didn’t even remember how she finished watching the rest of the matches. When she finally snapped out of her daze, the day’s matches were over, the top 25 participants decided. There were no matches for them tomorrow. It was the resurrection match for the 75 eliminated participants.

Only one would emerge from the resurrection match, becoming the 26th participant and advancing to the top 26 to top 13 matches.

Meanwhile, seeing Lian Xing and Jade Lady’s interaction, Tears Maiden didn’t say anything, her expression still cold and indifferent.

Although she had a favorable impression of Lian Xing, it was purely admiration, without any other feelings…

---

---

Night, resting time.

After communicating with the Mist Colt, Lian Xing eagerly entered its Viral Space. Because of the distance earlier, she had lost her shared vision and hadn’t seen what Dreamflow Sunset Glow had been doing, only that it had…acquired…something from within the Emperor’s cauldron.

However, even though Lian Xing had anticipated the richness of the loot, she was still shocked when she saw the two Black Quality Emperor-Tier crystals and that White Quality combat skill card.

“One of those black crystals has to be given to Returning Dust. We made a deal…” the Mist Colt said cautiously, seeing Lian Xing’s stunned expression.

It knew its master’s personality. Having Lian Xing give away an Emperor-Tier crystal would be more painful than killing her…

However, it quickly noticed that Lian Xing wasn’t even looking at the crystals. Her gaze was fixed on the white combat skill card.

Seeing the card’s information, the stars in the golden-haired girl’s eyes froze…

At this moment, the Moonlight Rabbit had fulfilled the most difficult requirement for its Shining Species evolution path.

A throwing-type combat skill, exclusive to Biological Species…

A Shining Quality combat skill card—

[Waxing and Waning]

Chapter 156: Shining Combat Skill, The Path to Shining!! p1

“Whoosh——!!!!!”

High above the Dominating Cauldron Palace, in the All-Pet Beast Tournament, two legendary auras clashed, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Centered around the Second Princess and Returning Dust, a dense sea of clouds stretched for thousands of kilometers, forming a sharp arrowhead before the magnificent white, winged horse. From below, Returning Dust’s aura resembled a giant, misty arrow.

Meanwhile, around awakened Star Sand, a golden whirlwind of sand and dust raged, obliterating nearby mountain peaks. Except for the golden-haired girl in white stockings, the surrounding terrain had been flattened.

Returning Dust versus Star Sand… a breathtaking battle, a clash of titans, unfolding before countless viewers.

“…”
“…”
“What is that!?” Unlike the silent audience, the Second Princess’s eyes widened as she saw the star-shaped shackles binding Returning Dust.

Why were Returning Dust’s combat skill and Arcane Art slots permanently gone? They should have been temporarily disabled.

“Lian Xing, what did you do!!!?” the Second Princess demanded, her gaze now furious.

Lian Xing twirled her golden hair, a seductive smile playing on her lips. “Calm down, Second Princess. I just wanted to observe whether Returning Dust, with its wings clipped and legs broken, could still reach its former glory~~~”

“…”
“…”
“Boom!!!!!”

The arrow-shaped cloud of mist shot forward, shattering the colors of the sky. Returning Dust, despite being a close-range attacker, moved with the speed of a teleporting projectile, slamming into the golden-haired girl. However, a shimmering, rainbow-colored barrier appeared, stopping Returning Dust in its tracks. The space around Lian Xing remained undisturbed, not even her eyes blinking.

“So, without its combat skills and Arcane Arts, it’s just an ordinary…rainbow pony…?” Lian Xing chuckled, admiring Returning Dust’s beauty up close, her lewdness showing.

The Second Princess, suppressing her frustration, said, “Lian Xing, I apologize. You don’t have to provoke me. I’ll fight seriously, with everything I have, to kill you here.”

“Returning Dust, Awakening!!!”

“Whoosh——!!!!!”

As the Second Princess’s voice echoed, Returning Dust’s wings unfurled, the arrow-shaped clouds transforming into wind turbines that absorbed the surrounding mist. At Commander-Tier, Returning Dust’s direct combat power couldn’t surpass Rainwater or Dark Ink Candlelight, but what captivated its audience wasn’t just its past glory…

It was because—

Once Returning Dust activated Awakening, no one could match its speed! Its power boost was among the highest of all Legends.

“Boom, boom, boom, boom!!!!!”

Propelled by an explosive force from its wings, the white horse shot forward like a rocket, charging towards the golden-haired girl. The world shifted colors, and Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s viral shield began to crack rapidly.

So fast…even without its combat skills and Arcane Arts, I can’t even see it!!! Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Throne-Level characteristic had already suppressed the opponent’s speed, but it wasn’t enough. Lian Xing barely registered her shock before the rainbow shield shattered.

Just as the white horse was about to crush Lian Xing…

Returning Dust was stopped.

A giant, emerald green horn emerged from the mist. As Pet Essence crackled, a massive, jade-green dragon, covered in crystals, a rainbow halo around it, emerged from Lian Xing’s seemingly bottomless space.

[Floating Cloud]

[Illustrious Form]

Commander-Tier Viral Species, Dreamflow Sunset Glow!!!

Its horn collided with the white horse’s wings. Normally, nothing could catch Returning Dust. This was Lian Xing’s largest and most imposing pet beast. Dead Ash, having just regained consciousness, stared in disbelief. So this was the Viral Species’s true form!? It could withstand Extinction and millions of Royal-Tier pet beasts… But could it stop a full-powered Returning Dust…?

“Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh, whoosh—”

The white horse blurred into countless afterimages, circling Lian Xing. But no matter the angle, Returning Dust’s attacks were intercepted by Dreamflow Sunset Glow. The white and green figures clashed in the sky. Dreamflow Sunset Glow not only blocked the attacks but also prevented Returning Dust from reaching Lian Xing.

Then, as it blocked another attack, Dreamflow Sunset Glow extended its horn towards the Second Princess.

[Spectral Severance]

“Buzz—”

A green, particle-like energy coalesced.

The Second Princess’s expression changed. Thousands of green laser beams erupted from the horn, slicing through the sky. The sky cracked, mountains were bisected, and even the Second Princess was in danger. Just as the beams were about to hit her, Returning Dust, its speed increasing exponentially, teleported, carrying her away.

The green beams swept across the map, closing in on Returning Dust. The participants in the spectator area, protected by the Emperor’s aura, paled.

“So strong!!!” Tears Maiden’s eyes narrowed.

“I didn’t expect the Second Princess to be pushed to this point. How unexpected…” Snow Sun, the cold, white-haired woman, blinked in surprise.

This Throne-Level Commander-Tier pet beast, evolved from the Mist Colt, could suppress a Legend of the same tier. It was unbelievable and threatening. Even with Star Sand’s sealing, everyone had to fight disabled against Moon Rabbit Lian Xing.

As it carried the Second Princess, dodging the laser beams, a strange look appeared in Returning Dust’s eyes. It turned to look at Dreamflow Sunset Glow.

“I didn’t expect to face you again after all these years…in this situation…”

“The Dominating Cauldron Palace boasted so much. I thought you had succeeded~~~”

“…”
“…”
“I don’t remember. Almost, I guess~~~” Dreamflow Sunset Glow yawned.

Returning Dust chuckled. “I was half a step away—”

Through this brief exchange, Dreamflow Sunset Glow understood. This wasn’t a reincarnation. Like itself, it had been reset before reaching its goal. But since Returning Dust had spoken, they weren’t facing a newborn controlled by the Second Princess, but a true Emperor-Tier consciousness.

Dreamflow Sunset Glow focused its energy.

“Whoosh, whoosh!”

The white horse flickered. As if time had stopped for a second, no one saw its movements, and the Second Princess on its back vanished. Returning Dust had hidden her. Then, a pure white beam of light shot into the sky.

“Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom!!!!!”

Before Returning Dust, a wave of white energy erupted, Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s green beams dissipating, the surrounding Pet Essence vanishing. A white energy shield enveloped the white horse, blocking all Pet Essence and auras.

[Talent — Purity: Blocks all Pet Essence. Deactivates only upon contact with another entity, reactivating upon separation.]

Within the white energy shield, the white horse shrunk to the size of an ordinary horse. Then, its upper body transformed, white fur and flesh shedding, a beautiful, naked, white-haired, female, centaur-like body emerging. Her long, white hair, adorned with shimmering, star-like ornaments, flowed gently, her exposed body captivating everyone. The viewers in the Dominating Cauldron Palace livestream couldn’t even type, their hands frozen.

A Legend, in human form…

This was—

Second Stage Awakening!!!

Meanwhile, Lian Xing, wiping the drool dripping from Star Sand, frowned.

“This isn’t something a newborn could do…”

“Could a deceased Sovereign-Tier Emperor pass on so much experience and memory to its descendant!?”

“Whoosh——!!!!!”

The Pet Essence before her eyes was torn apart. Before Lian Xing could react, the white, dreamlike horse-woman, enveloped in a cloud of thorns, had crossed the distance between them, slamming into Dreamflow Sunset Glow and sending it flying beyond their field of vision. The camera seemed to lag, unable to capture their movements, only a white blur pushing a green dragon through the sky.

Hundreds of cloud-covered peaks were shattered, green, jade-like fragments raining down, the world of the Dominating Cauldron Palace trembling.

Dreamflow Sunset Glow was losing…

Seeing this, Lian Xing frowned.

Returning Dust’s increased combat power was unexpected, even more destructive than Snow Sun’s Dark Ink Candlelight. It completely countered her lineup. Returning Dust’s Purity talent could block all ranged attacks. The white barrier couldn’t be removed without direct contact, rendering the Heaven-Gracing Curtain and the Sun Harp useless.

Only Dreamflow Sunset Glow could fight against Returning Dust.

If she could stall until its Awakening ended, her chances of winning would increase significantly.

Should she use that…?

Lian Xing glanced at the livestream camera.

If it was recognized, the Dominating Cauldron Palace wouldn’t let her go so easily…

Illustrious Form, Spectral Severance, Viral Duel…these Green and Crimson combat skills were just items from the Azure Sky Emperor’s collection. The chances of them being recognized were…close to zero.

But that…it was different…

After all, Fluorescent combat skills were the…signature moves…of many Emperors.

“But the Azure Sky Emperor was a second-stage Sovereign-Tier pet beast. It must have had a full set of Black Quality combat skills. Even if it had used a Fluorescent combat skill, it might not be remembered.”

“And even if it’s recognized, I can just say that Fluorescent combat skills aren’t unique… They can’t prove anything…”

“Let’s gamble!!!” After a brief hesitation, Lian Xing made her decision.

In the next second, hundreds of kilometers away, on a cloud-covered peak, a multicolored beam of light shot into the sky.

[Fluorescent combat skill, North Wind!!!]

Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s crystalline body, constantly being battered by the horse-woman, was deformed…

And just then, its almost shattered Illustrious Form was suddenly covered in a layer of icy scales, the freezing cold allowing it to withstand Returning Dust’s attacks once again. Seeing the Fluorescent combat skill on its opponent, Returning Dust’s expression twitched.

In the next second, its charge was abruptly stopped.

Before it could react, a frozen horn was pressed against its soft abdomen.

[Mist Walk, North Wind]

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Instantly, an ice-blue, freezing aura filled the sky above the Dominating Cauldron Palace. Under the viewers’ horrified gazes, a deafening roar echoed, and the ice-blue dragon, trailing icy sparks, like a reverse meteor, sent the horse-woman soaring into the sky, tens of thousands of meters high.

How…how was this possible!?

This was…

A Fluorescent combat skill!!!

Moon Rabbit Lian Xing, she actually possessed a Fluorescent combat skill, something only Emperor-Tier pet beasts should have!?

This was unreasonable…!!!

No, this level of power and destruction…it wasn’t something two Commander-Tier pet beasts could achieve!!!

Seeing this, the members of the Ten Greats academies in Baiyue Province were speechless.

They, the Ten Greats of Baiyue Province, were also Commander-Tier Beast Tamers…

But why…why were these two Commander-Tier pet beasts so different…?

As they watched, their breath held, the two figures soared higher and higher, finally surpassing the clouds above the Dominating Cauldron Palace, reaching the Azure Sky Emperor’s cauldron.

“Boom!!!!!”

In the next second, under the Dominating Cauldron Palace Beast Tamers’ horrified gazes, Dreamflow Sunset Glow, its ice-blue body shimmering, carrying Returning Dust, slammed headfirst into the cauldron’s entrance.

Then, both figures vanished.

The entire Dominating Cauldron Palace fell silent…

“Whew, whew, whew, whew, whew~~~~~” Seeing this absurd scene, Lian Xing casually whistled, pretending to be unconcerned…

Meanwhile, she discreetly glanced at the spectator area.

As expected…

The Dominating Cauldron Palace Emperor, the one that had tormented her earlier, was back, its gaze fixed on her, as if waiting to arrest her after the battle.

It seemed the Fluorescent combat skill had been exposed…

Chapter 155: Star Sand Enters the Stage, Sealing All! 

All-Pet Beast Tournament, top 50 to top 25.

The most anticipated matches in this round were Dead Ash’s Ancient Juvenile Species versus Little Flower Goddess of the City of Awe, and Moon Rabbit Lian Xing versus the Second Princess of Youyou Leize. The second match, in particular, was attracting a lot of attention. After all, the Ancient Juvenile Species had already lost to Lian Xing once, and Little Flower Goddess’s fame was far less than that of the Second Princess, the descendant of the Great Emperor Yun Jianyou.

To put it simply, the former Sovereign of the Dominating Cauldron Palace was known as the Azure Sky Emperor, and the former Sovereign of the City of Awe was known as the Heavenly Peach Emperor, but Yun Jianyou was called the Great Emperor, which showed his status and prestige among Emperor-Tier pet beasts.

At this moment, under the gaze of countless beings across the Pet Beast World, the 50 Supernova participants stood on the platform of the mountain peak in the waiting area. And seeing the golden-haired girl, her face slightly pale, her steps unsteady, her expression…distracted…, almost all the other participants paused.

The Monarch-Tier commentator also noticed something.

“Hey, everyone, look at Moon Rabbit’s figure. She’s actually wearing a chest binder today. It seems she’s taking this battle very seriously!!”

“She probably doesn’t want her body to affect her concentration. So, the Second Princess is a bigger threat to her than Jade Lady, huh!?”

As the commentator rambled, Lian Xing turned away, speechless.

She was just a bit engorged and anemic…

She had thought the Moonlight Rabbit would fall asleep after drinking so much, but this little newborn had been sucking on her for over ten hours, as if it had never been fed before…

Soon, under the viewers’ excited gazes, the matches finally began. The overall level of competition in this round was clearly higher than the previous one. Almost every participant was at the peak of Royal-Tier, far surpassing the level of the Beast Tamer Alliance.

Finally, under Moon Princess’s grim gaze, it was time for the fourth match, the Third Princess of Youyou Leize, Thunder Fly, versus Moon Princess of the Beast Tamer Alliance.

Before heading to the battlefield, Thunder Fly glanced at Lian Xing, as if asking, Should I hold back…?

Lian Xing shook her head indifferently.

Even if Thunder Fly killed Moon Princess, it had nothing to do with her.

In fact, she might even secretly celebrate, then take advantage of the situation and adopt the grieving Hidden Moon Marquis, hoping to inherit some of its wealth.

“Boom!!!”

As expected, the battle ended the moment it began. Even after activating Awakening, the Golden Flower Flying Moon couldn’t even see the Thundering Thousand Tribulations’ movements. The blue, lightning-covered squirrel, enhanced by Ephemeral’s power, instantly pierced through the Golden Flower Flying Moon’s body, leaving a long, arcing scar in the sky.

Seeing this, Moon Princess’s fans in the Beast Tamer Alliance sighed, but they had already accepted this outcome when the match pairings were announced. They were just coming to terms with reality.

Moon Princess, eliminated in the top 50.

Since she was from the same faction as Lian Xing, Thunder Fly had spared her life.

However, at this moment, observing the Thundering Thousand Tribulations, Lian Xing shook her head meaningfully.

“Too forced…”

“Little Fly just obtained Ephemeral. She hasn’t mastered a proper training method yet. She’s still far from reaching Royal-Tier, probably the weakest among the T0 contenders.”

“If Ephemeral could evolve to Royal-Tier…then it might be interesting…” On the first day of the All-Pet Beast Tournament, Lian Xing had used the Azure Mechanical Heart to scan all the participants, assigning them scores…

Among them, three stood out, their auras far surpassing Royal-Tier.

Tears Maiden, Snow Sun, Second Princess. Their auras and status were unshakeable… The reason they were classified as T0 was because that was the highest ranking.

And Jade Lady and herself were in the next tier, barely reaching Monarch-Tier combat power, followed by Thunder Fly and Dead Ash, who hadn’t yet evolved their core pet beasts to Royal-Tier.

And finally, Little Flower Goddess…

Honestly, that hidden figure in the palanquin…even the Azure Mechanical Heart couldn’t fully analyze it. It must have used some special pet beast to block all detection.

But facing Dead Ash’s Ancient Juvenile Species…its true strength would soon be…revealed…

Finally, it was time for the ninth match.

Dead Ash versus Little Flower Goddess.

Under everyone’s gaze, the petite, silver-haired girl walked onto the battle area. Unlike usual, her steps were steady, her aura contained, like an ordinary Beast Tamer.

Normally, the Ancient Juvenile Species’s aura would have already shattered the entire platform…

It seems she can finally control it… Lian Xing thought.

Meanwhile, Dead Ash, after glancing at the golden-haired girl in the spectator area, turned her attention to the large, red palanquin opposite her.

“Playing hide-and-seek…”

[30 seconds remaining.]

[10 seconds remaining.]

[3 seconds remaining.]

Time ticked by, and neither of them summoned their pet beasts.

Then, at the last second, a terrifying wave of blue flames erupted from Dead Ash.

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!”

Under everyone’s gaze, a blue beast, like a meteor, crashed into the palanquin, the shockwave rippling through the air, dispersing the clouds above the Dominating Cauldron Palace. And before the viewers could even react, Little Flower Goddess’s palanquin had been sent flying for thousands of kilometers, crashing through the clouds until it reached the edge of the Dominating Cauldron Palace’s territory.

Only then could they see the Ancient Juvenile Species’s form.

Its body was wreathed in ice-blue flames, its skin covered in scales, its head like a goat’s, with dragon horns, its strong, horse-like body ending in a hooked tail.

This was…

Extinction!!!

And it was wearing a giant, silver, buffalo-horned helmet.

The Royal-Tier Silver Horned Brute, an armor-type Weapon Species!!

“Whoosh—”

In the next second, Extinction’s figure vanished in a flash, reappearing thousands of kilometers away, where Little Flower Goddess’s palanquin had landed.

[Bloodline Combat Skill — Earthquake]

The world…faded…

A deafening roar echoed throughout the Dominating Cauldron Palace.

A few seconds later, as the viewers opened their eyes, the area around the two pet beasts, for thousands of kilometers, had vanished…

In her battle against Moon Rabbit Lian Xing, Dead Ash had learned a valuable lesson: never hold back in a life-or-death battle. If Extinction had gone all out from the start, it might have been able to break through Cloud Dream Calamity’s defenses, perhaps even instantly killing the Heaven-Gracing Curtain, their main attacker.

It was the prolonged battle that had allowed the opponent to adapt to Extinction’s rhythm…

If there was a next time…she would definitely win!!!

So, looking at the shattered remains of the palanquin, Extinction stomped on them, a terrifying energy gathering in its mouth.

[Bloodline Combat Skill — Shockwave]

However, at that moment—

Countless flowers bloomed from within the ruined palanquin. And then, as if a powerful suction force had erupted, Extinction’s figure was pulled inside…

Everyone’s expressions turned to confusion…

What was going on!?

Where had it gone!?

But Dead Ash, seemingly able to see what was happening inside the palanquin, remained calm, simply waiting.

Meanwhile, Lian Xing’s eyes narrowed.

“This ability…it’s similar to the Mist Colt’s Viral Duel, but is it an innate talent…?”

“And inside the palanquin…is that a Viral Space!?”

“No…it’s probably a higher-level void…!!!”

But even if it pulled the Ancient Juvenile Species, Extinction, inside…could it actually defeat it?

It had simply made the environment more favorable. It was still a direct confrontation in the end.

Lian Xing initially thought so, but then she noticed the sweat on Dead Ash’s forehead. Something seemed wrong…

Time ticked by, and the color drained from Dead Ash’s face.

Finally, under everyone’s gaze, as the 13th minute arrived…

“Ugh!!!!!”

The silver-haired girl collapsed to the ground, vomiting blood, the crimson liquid spurting from her seven orifices. Seeing this horrifying scene, the Beast Tamer Alliance’s higher-ups stood up, their expressions filled with shock and disbelief.

Extinction…it had been defeated…!?

What had happened inside!?

An Ancient Juvenile Species defeated just like that?

The entire spectator area was in an uproar.

After Jade Lady, Dead Ash was the second T0 contender to be eliminated.

Soon, with a surge of Viral Species energy, Little Flower Goddess’s palanquin reformed and floated away, leaving Dead Ash kneeling on the ground, vomiting blood, her vision blurring, her eyes fixed on the departing palanquin.

But she quickly accepted her defeat, her head drooping dejectedly.

Meanwhile, a hoarse voice echoed in Lian Xing’s mind, “Lian Xing, be careful. That thing isn’t normal. Its true body isn’t even inside the palanquin.”

“I’ll be blunt. It’s been maintaining a Viral Species Shared Travel state since it appeared. As a fellow Viral Species hybrid, you should understand how unbelievable that is, right?”

“And…although I don’t know how it did it…it has twelve contracted pet beasts!!!”

Hearing Dead Ash’s hurried message, Lian Xing’s starry eyes narrowed.

Maintaining Shared Travel since it appeared…?

Even she, a Viral Species hybrid with a high bloodline purity, could only maintain Shared Travel for about five minutes. Even an Emperor-Tier Beast Tamer couldn’t do something like that, right!?

And twelve pet beasts…?

That was simple. It meant the…Reincarnated Soul physique, possessing two life crystals. Other Royal-Tier Beast Tamers could contract six pet beasts, but it could contract twelve.

“And three of them are…” Dead Ash’s voice faded as she lost consciousness.

If this were a movie, even if she died, the angry viewers would resurrect her just to slap her for that cliffhanger…

However, Lian Xing simply rolled her eyes, not really caring. After all, she hated spoilers…

Spoilers are worse than death…

Dead Ash was quickly carried away by the rescue team…

Meanwhile, Lian Xing turned to look at the smiling, purple-haired woman in the distance.

The Second Princess of Youyou Leize.

Lian Xing had to admit, her aura, even among the T0 contenders, was incredibly powerful, that dense and pure Emperor’s blood practically washing over her…

Compared to Little Flower Goddess, who could maintain Unlimited Shared Travel, Lian Xing was much more interested in the Second Princess.

Finally, after a long wait, it was time for the 16th match.

Moon Rabbit Lian Xing versus the Second Princess of Youyou Leize.

Could the only dual-Legend holder of this generation surpass the invincible bloodline of the Great Emperor Yun Jianyou!?

Under everyone’s gaze, the purple-haired woman in a low-cut court dress walked onto the battle platform. Her ample bosom was practically spilling out of her dress, her alluring figure capturing the attention of all the young girls, the beauty mark beneath her eye making their mouths dry.

At 25 years old, the Second Princess was at the peak of her beauty, her mature figure far more enticing than young girls like Lian Xing and Tears Maiden. Even the Monarch-Tier commentator, watching her elegant gait, couldn’t help but swallow hard.

A moment later, Lian Xing, with her two golden buns, dressed in shimmering, translucent, knee-high stockings, a playful smile on her face, also walked onto the stage. Although her opponent was indeed attractive.Lian Xing was confident that in three years, she would be even more alluring…

And in terms of peak beauty, who could compare to the Moonwalker Mother?

[30 seconds remaining.]

As both participants appeared, the countdown began.

Lian Xing, not bothering with pretenses like Dead Ash, immediately summoned the Heaven-Gracing Curtain. However, the Second Princess didn’t move, simply staring at the golden-haired girl with a gentle smile.

“Lian Xing, since you and Little Fly are friends, I won’t hurt you. But…”

“When the battle begins, you have to dodge very quickly. Otherwise, my pet beast won’t be able to control itself…”

“Don’t worry, Sister, I’m not made of paper. I won’t break so easily~~~” Lian Xing replied with a smile, seemingly unconcerned.

Meanwhile, as the countdown continued, Thunder Fly, watching from the spectator area, clenched her fists. Since childhood, she had always been chasing after her second sister, but she had never seen her true strength. Her second sister had never even revealed her pet beast lineup in public.

But even Monarch-Tier pet beasts felt the urge to bow before her, overwhelmed by her innate aura.

As half-sisters, one with the dominant Emperor’s blood, the other a descendant of a Monarch-Tier support pet beast, the difference in their bloodline purity was vast…

Even after contracting with Ephemeral, even with the white deer space’s help, she still couldn’t reach her second sister’s level.

She knew deep down that her second sister had some unfathomable being within her.

“Little Star, be careful…”

“My sister’s goal this time…is to defeat Tears Maiden!!!”

“…”
“…”

As Thunder Fly’s nervous mutter faded, the countdown reached its final second. And the Second Princess, extending her arms like a bow and arrow, aimed at the Heaven-Gracing Curtain a hundred meters away.

Then, the entire Dominating Cauldron Palace began to tremble.

Under the incredulous gazes of the entire Pet Beast World, the purple-haired woman spoke a single, incomprehensible word, “Returning Dust, pierce her—”

“…”
“…”
“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!”

In the next second, a blinding white light, like an explosion of clouds and mist, shot forward, instantly striking Lian Xing and the Heaven-Gracing Curtain. Even Dreamflow Sunset Glow, which had been prepared, was pierced by this holy figure. Then, a wave of white mist engulfed the golden-haired girl, sending her flying towards the edge of the Dominating Cauldron Palace’s territory, the expanding clouds covering hundreds of subordinate regions.

“Buzzzzzzzz—”

At this moment, forgetting about Lian Xing’s condition, Ephemeral, within Thunder Fly, felt a tingling sensation in its scalp. The auras of Tears Maiden, Snow Sun, Little Flower Goddess, and Jade Lady fluctuated violently. Even the Monarch-Tier commentator stood up, its hands on its head, staring at the figure enveloped in mist with a shocked expression.

At this moment, the entire Pet Beast World, from Monarchs to Emperors, fell silent.

Especially in Youyou Leize, where not a single sound could be heard, even the flow of Pet Essence seemed deafening in the silence.

The figure before them…it was a magnificent, snow-white, winged horse, its wings like those of an airplane, its body wreathed in a dreamlike mist.

One of the 72 Legends, Commander-Tier, Biological Species, Returning Dust!!!

And Returning Dust’s previous form was the legendary Emperor who had founded Youyou Leize—

The Great Emperor, Yun Jianyou!!!

“Yun Jianyou! It’s Yun Jianyou! How can it appear in the All-Pet Beast Tournament!?”

“No, the Great Emperor Yun Jianyou is already dead. This must be a newly born Returning Dust, but how did it appear within the Second Princess?”

“The cycle of reincarnation…mother becomes daughter~~~~”

“How could the Second Princess hide this for so long, only revealing it during the All-Pet Beast Tournament? Is she mentally ill…?”

A few seconds later, as they recovered from their shock, the Dominating Cauldron Palace erupted in cheers, the livestream chat flooded with comments. The participants looked at each other, dumbfounded.

Was this a dream?

They were competing against a being of this level!?

The reincarnation of the Great Emperor Yun Jianyou was fighting against them…

What an unbelievable honor…

Yun Jianyou was known as the Great Emperor because it was a Legend that had reached the peak, its name forever etched in the history of the Pet Beast World, an invincible pet beast!!

Facing such a legendary being, how could they possibly win!?

In fact, the moment Returning Dust appeared, the outcome of the tournament had already been decided…

In the eyes of most, there was no need to continue the competition. They could just give the championship crown to the Second Princess~~~

The level of this year’s All-Pet Beast Tournament had been raised to a level beyond their reach.

“…”
“…”
“Crack—”

However, in the next second, the sound of shattering stone echoed.

Under the viewers’ surprised gazes, amidst the swirling clouds and mist on the other side of the arena, the golden-haired girl reappeared.

After being hit by Returning Dust’s attack, which had almost reached the edge of the Dominating Cauldron Palace…Moon Rabbit Lian Xing had actually returned to the battlefield!?

At this moment, Lian Xing’s sleeves were torn, her white chest binder partially exposed, her buns undone, her golden hair cascading down her back like a waterfall, giving her a fragile yet beautiful appearance.

[Sorry, Master. I misjudged the opponent’s attack power. Next time, I’ll block it in time,] Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s apologetic voice echoed in her mind.

“It’s fine~~~” Lian Xing nodded casually.

Even she hadn’t expected the opponent to have a hidden Legend…

Actually, although Returning Dust’s attack had seemed unstoppable, Dreamflow Sunset Glow hadn’t even been on the field yet. Not only had it not used the Fluorescent combat skill, North Wind, it hadn’t even activated its Viral World, simply blocking the attack with its Throne-Level characteristic.

And after a few seconds of recovery, its automatic shield had regenerated. It wasn’t a big deal.

Now…

It was time to deal with this…

At this moment, under the overwhelming aura and the one-sided atmosphere, Lian Xing tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and looked up at the magnificent white horse.

Probably, at this moment, no one believed that Lian Xing could win.

The moment Returning Dust appeared, even Tears Maiden’s aura had been suppressed…

This was a legendary being that had once changed the Pet Beast World.

Even the Seven Heavens, the Cycle of Calamity, and the Sovereign’s territory had been awed by its power.

However…

In the next second, under everyone’s incredulous gaze, the stars in the golden-haired girl’s eyes blazed with an unprecedented brightness, and a calm smile appeared on her face.

“A reincarnated Great Emperor…nothing special~~”

“Now…feel anger… Try to defy me… Because, whether you win or lose, you’ll never reach the heights of your past life again~~~”

“Boom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

As Lian Xing’s cryptic words echoed…

The world changed color, the earth trembled.

A deafening, circular shockwave, like an atomic bomb, erupted behind the golden-haired girl, a radiant golden aura descending upon the Dominating Cauldron Palace, its light so bright that it was almost blinding.

Under everyone’s gaze, amidst the swirling wind and dust, a golden elemental figure, a Star Wheel hovering behind it, slowly materialized above Moon Rabbit Lian Xing’s head.

This light was brighter than the stars, more radiant than the sun, a divine and elegant being.

And the moment it opened its eyes, a brilliant starlight shot into the sky, the clouds shattering, as if a king had descended, the entire venue falling silent.

At this moment, the auras of all living beings in the Dominating Cauldron Palace weakened visibly.

Awakened state, area-wide silence!!!

No one was spared.

All the participants’ Arcane Arts and combat skills were disabled…

And the Second Princess, seeing the strange, illusory star-shaped shackles on Returning Dust, feeling its combat skills and Arcane Arts disappearing, her eyes widened in shock.

The Legend Arcane Art, Starless Shackles!!!

At this moment, Star Sand, one of the 72 Legends, made its grand entrance…!!!

Star Sand versus Returning Dust.

The final battle of the All-Pet Beast Tournament had begun…!!!

Chapter 154: Snow Flower, One of the 72 Legends!!!

After the top 50 to top 25 matches, there was a night of rest. One day wasn’t enough to revive defeated pet beasts, but it allowed the participants to calm down and recover their Pet Essence.

Lian Xing didn’t stay with Tears Maiden, instead getting a separate room to let her pet beasts recover and adjust their moods. To put it crudely, she wanted to secretly feed them her blood.

At this moment, the golden-haired girl with starry eyes, her beautiful, shining hair spread across the bed, leaned against the headboard, holding Star Sand and the Mist Colt in her arms. Star Sand was just one level away from evolving, and the Mist Colt had just broken through. Although they were both reluctant, they knew this was a crucial moment, so they didn’t resist.

The Moonlight Rabbit, however, was clinging to Lian Xing’s leg, seemingly wanting to compete with Star Sand and the Mist Colt for attention, but Lian Xing kept pushing it away.

As for the Great Lord Biluo and the Red Prison Palace Master, they didn’t need this kind of nourishment…

“Knock, knock, knock!!!”

Suddenly, a knock echoed.

Lian Xing jumped out of bed, startled, her face pale, like someone caught in the act. But she quickly calmed down. This was the Dominating Cauldron Palace. She shouldn’t have any acquaintances here.

So, she casually put on a yukata, adjusted her stockings, and opened the door.

A green-haired woman wearing a mask stood outside.

Jade Lady…

“Slam!!!”

Lian Xing slammed the door shut.

After a few seconds of stunned silence, Jade Lady knocked again.

“Open the door! Lian Xing, I have something important to tell you!!”

“…”
“…”

A few minutes later, Jade Lady, panting slightly, entered the room. Lian Xing sat on the bed, her golden hair loose, her legs crossed, her arms folded, her gaze cold.

She had just defeated Jade Lady, and now this girl had somehow found her room. This couldn’t be anything good.

“Assassination? Rape?”

“Neither! I really do have something important to discuss!!!” Jade Lady said, waving her hands, then looked at the golden-haired girl seriously.

And she froze.

Compared to her comical bun hairstyle from earlier, Lian Xing’s current appearance was ten times more alluring…

Her golden hair cascaded down her shoulders, framing her beautiful face, her changed hairstyle enhancing her beauty, a truly captivating sight.

And then, one of the less disciplined consorts…

Blood trickled from Jade Lady’s nose, staining her mask.

Seeing this, Lian Xing raised an eyebrow.

“I’ll report you to the Seven Heavens tomorrow. You’re mentally undressing me, affecting my mood for tomorrow’s match.”

“It wasn’t me! It was someone else!!”

“Heh, Lover’s consorts can only share consciousness, not physical sensations or fantasies. You’re the only one thinking those things, yet you’re trying to blame others!!” Lian Xing sneered, exposing Jade Lady’s lie.

Jade Lady, surprised that Lian Xing knew so much, her mind filled with the mocking voices of the other consorts, no longer bothered pretending and sat down beside Lian Xing.

“Lian Xing, I want to recommend you to Lover. With your beauty and strength, you have a high chance of becoming a childbearing consort… What do you think?”

“Immortal, eternally youthful, with access to infinite knowledge. No Beast Tamer could refuse such an offer, right?”

“…”
“…”
“I refuse. You can leave now~~” Lian Xing refused without hesitation.

As her cold words echoed, Jade Lady’s mind went blank.

And all the consorts within her were also stunned.

“W-Why!?” Jade Lady asked, after a moment of silence, unable to comprehend.

“You swine with your limited knowledge, you’re not qualified to share my memories or thoughts, let alone obtain my pet beasts—”

“If Lover is truly interested, then let it come and form a master-servant contract with me, not this vulgar-consort arrangement.”

“Only the complete Lover is worthy of contracting with me!!!” As Lian Xing’s arrogant words echoed through the room, Jade Lady’s expression turned to disbelief.

Normally, anyone who dared to speak like this would be mocked and ridiculed by millions of consorts.

However, for some reason, just thinking about Lian Xing’s insult, “swine,” made many of the consorts blush and feel a strange sensation, some even losing control…

“Tenth Concubine, make her say it again! I can’t take it anymore!!!”

“I think I’m in love! This is the first time I’ve enjoyed being insulted!!”

“Tenth Concubine, I really like this one! Please give in to her! Let me watch too!!”

Hearing the chaotic voices in her mind, Jade Lady shook her head impatiently. The reason she had come to see Lian Xing wasn’t just her own idea. Star Sand’s existence was too important, even more so than their humiliating defeat…

If Lian Xing could also become one of them, gaining access to Star Sand…they could die happy…

Unfortunately, Lian Xing’s demand to meet Lover directly wasn’t something they, as consorts, could arrange.

And more importantly, Lian Xing seemed to look down on them…

After a moment of hesitation, Jade Lady seemed to have made a new decision.

“How about this, Lian Xing. Let’s make a different deal~~~”

“Just between us, nothing to do with the other consorts.”

“We have information about the location of a Legend, [Snow Flower]. It’s still in its immature form, somewhere in this Pet Beast World. I can give it to you unconditionally, as long as you agree to one request.”

“…”
“…”
“Snow Flower!!!” In the next second, Star Sand’s voice, sharp and excited, echoed within Lian Xing’s mind.

Snow Flower, one of the 72 Legends, a Royal-Tier Elemental Species, known as the most beautiful pet beast in the world, the dream lover of almost all Elemental Species.

No, not just Elemental Species, even the emotionless Mechanical Species were captivated by it.

“Unconditional…and you still have a request? Let’s hear it~~” Lian Xing asked, her voice suspicious, not as excited as expected.

So, Jade Lady said directly, “I want to sleep with you.”

“Get lost.”

“Wait, then how about a kiss…?”

“A forced relationship isn’t sweet…” This time, Lian Xing didn’t refuse immediately, instead turning her head away, her expression conflicted.

She clearly thought this deal was worth it, but she didn’t want to degrade herself by selling herself…

A kiss this time, then what next time?

And the time after that?

Wouldn’t her…moral standards keep…lowering…?

In the end, she would become like those countless people who sold themselves…

Meanwhile, seeing Lian Xing’s hesitation, Jade Lady moved closer excitedly.

“Then how about we become online lovers…?”

“My request is simple. Just say ‘Good night, Jade Lady baby’ to me every night before you sleep, and call me ‘Jade Lady baby’ when we meet. Don’t just call me ‘baby,’ or it’ll be like you have millions of babies… I’ll be jealous.”

“Just that…?” At this moment, Lian Xing was clearly tempted…

Lover’s consorts were all easily smitten with beautiful girls. Her appearance clearly matched Jade Lady’s preferences… Even if she refused now, Jade Lady would probably just pester her later. It was better to just set the rules now.

Meanwhile, Jade Lady’s mind was being bombarded…

“You ungrateful bitch! Using the Snow Flower information I provided to monopolize Lian Xing! I’ll dig up your ancestors’ graves…!!”

“Tenth Concubine, please, let her call us ‘baby’ too! Seeing her only call you ‘Jade Lady baby’…it’s driving me crazy!!”

“Tenth Concubine, I want to kill your mother!!”

“Tenth Concubine, I want to give you a little sister!!!”

“Come to the Dominating Cauldron Palace! I’ll give you my mom’s location!”

Facing the other consorts’ hysterical screams, Jade Lady ignored them and said to Lian Xing, “If you agree, I’ll tell you a secret.”

At this moment, sensing Jade Lady’s eager gaze, Lian Xing sighed and took out her phone.

[Jade Lady has sent you a friend request.]

[Friend Remark: Swine]

[Swine has sent you a couple request.]

[Note: If you accept, other couples will also see this information.]

[Confirm]

[Ding!]

[Your number of partners has increased to 3. Remaining slots: 17.]

[Silver Dragon, Little Tears, Swine]

Although Jade Lady had annoyed her by exposing her auto-loot in the Azure Sky Emperor’s relic, the information about Lover was useful… So, Lian Xing reluctantly agreed to become her online lover…

Putting away her phone, looking at Jade Lady’s eager expression, Lian Xing said, her voice slightly awkward, “Jade Lady baby, can you give me the Snow Flower information now?”

“Of course, Lian Xing baby~~~” Jade Lady said with a smile, ignoring the increasingly angry and hysterical voices in her mind.

To protect Lian Xing’s privacy, she had deleted all 20 of her couple slots on her main account before sending the request.

By the way, Jade Lady hadn’t actually done anything with her online lovers…

Or rather, although Lover’s consorts were promiscuous in their affections, they weren’t promiscuous in their actions. After all, doing that in front of millions of people would be too much…

A few seconds later, she received the Snow Flower’s location information.

[Snow Flower, born 136 years ago, has been hiding in the depths of the Dark Abyss Sea, a 2nd-level region. Its presence was only discovered after the Ancient Species, Moon Calamity, destroyed Dark Abyss Sea.]

[Snow Flower has sealed off the entire Dark Abyss Sea with its aura. Currently, tens of millions of Cycle of Calamity remnants are being held hostage by Snow Flower. The Seven Heavens’ higher-ups are negotiating with it, but its willingness to communicate is low…]

Uh…

Snow Flower was holding hostage tens of millions of Cycle of Calamity remnants?

Seeing this unbelievable news, Lian Xing chuckled.

Other Legends couldn’t possibly do this, but for Snow Flower, it wasn’t surprising. Its terrifying characteristic, which ignored tier differences, was even more absurd than Star Sand’s area-wide silence or Calamity Sun’s unlimited destruction.

Even Monarch-Tier pet beasts, once they entered Snow Flower’s aura range, they were unlikely to escape…

“So, my information is useful, right?”

“Yes, you did well. If you have similar information in the future, tell me immediately, Jade Lady baby~~” Lian Xing’s initially dismissive tone had completely changed, her voice now gentle as she reached out and patted Jade Lady’s head.

Feeling Lian Xing’s cool, soft touch, Jade Lady’s expression froze.

And the curses in her mind intensified, many consorts so jealous that they were crying blood…

Some even started listing Jade Lady’s flaws and bad habits.

Unfortunately, Lian Xing couldn’t hear those voices.

And even if she could, she wouldn’t care.

After all, this tool was quite useful…

A few minutes later, Jade Lady, her mind elsewhere, left the room, and Lian Xing, removing her stockings again, lay on the bed, lost in thought.

“Snow Flower…”

“It seems I’ll have to visit Dark Abyss Sea after the All-Pet Beast Tournament~~~”

“Not just for Snow Flower itself, but also for the experience and crystals from those tens of millions of Cycle of Calamity remnants. It would be a waste to let the Seven Heavens’ higher-ups… monopolize them…”

Actually, Lian Xing had considered searching for Snow Flower’s location when she first arrived in this world, but after realizing that she was in a low-level region, she had given up. Snow Flower, like Rainwater, was a natural Royal-Tier pet beast. The only Royal-Tier pet beast in Baiyue Province was a little fox. There was no way she could compete for Snow Flower.

But now that she had the information…she wouldn’t let it go to waste.

And she could also find a partner for Star Sand…

After pondering for a while, Lian Xing turned over, ready to sleep.

However, the Moonlight Rabbit was still staring at her, its expression pitiful, as if it hadn’t eaten yet.

Lian Xing, feeling a bit exasperated, pulled the Moonlight Rabbit into her arms.

“You little thing… Don’t tell me you want to be a married pet beast…?”

“You’ve already undergone perfect evolution, and you’re still drinking so much? Keep drinking, and you’ll explode…!!”

“I’m going to sleep. Drink by yourself~~~”

 

Chapter 153: Star Sand Evolves, the Ultimate Arcane Art!!!

The Dominating Cauldron Palace arena, the site of the All-Pet Beast Tournament, was in ruins. Except for the spectator area, the surrounding terrain for thousands of kilometers had been devastated, the clouds dispersed, the mountains collapsed, all ravaged by the Sun Harp’s barrage of Golden Wheel rings.

The entire spectator area was silent, most of the participants dumbfounded, speechless. Even the collective consciousness of Jade Lady’s consorts was silent. It was like watching your favorite team lose a game, that sudden wave of disappointment and frustration.

And Jade Lady’s connection to them was far deeper than that of an ordinary idol and their fans…

Each consort who had shared their pet beast had all been defeated…

A moment later, amidst the dust and debris, a disheveled green figure emerged. Jade Lady, her mask half broken, her body trapped in a crevice, her usually alluring eyes now filled with helplessness, raised her hands in surrender.

Jade Lady had given up…

Lover’s consorts couldn’t die. If she just stayed there, refusing to admit defeat, she wouldn’t be eliminated.

However, the Seven Heavens’ observers wouldn’t allow that. If she didn’t show any resistance, she would eventually be declared the loser.

So, after pretending to be dead for half a minute, realizing that the Monarch-Tier pet beast couldn’t break through the Viral Species’s void, Jade Lady forfeited.

The battle was over, and the Dominating Cauldron Palace staff immediately began the rescue operation…

And at this moment, all eyes turned to the stunning, golden-haired girl with starry eyes.

“Moon Rabbit Lian Xing…she’s too strong… Even a combined attack from almost a million Royal-Tier pet beasts couldn’t harm her. And that Monarch-Tier pet beast just disappeared…”

“And that’s without Calamity Sun and Star Sand. If they had appeared, Jade Lady wouldn’t have even had a chance, right?”

“I wonder if Moon Rabbit can defeat Snow Sun or Tears Maiden…”

The livestream chat was filled with discussions.

Tears Maiden, as the Saintess of Worry-Free Pond, naturally had a high concentration of hybrid blood, and with the support of Rainwater, one of the 72 Legends, and the resources of the Seven Heavens, she was considered the undisputed queen of the new generation.

And although Snow Sun’s hybrid concentration wasn’t high, her Resistance to Powerful Auras wasn’t her strong suit, her pet beast, Dark Ink Candlelight, evolved from the Legend Black Sun Flame, was a powerful, offensive Royal-Tier Legend.

It was even comparable to a Royal-Tier Moonwalker.

So, this wasn’t a level that ordinary Beast Tamers could reach, even Dead Ash’s Ancient Juvenile Species, Extinction, would struggle against them.

At this moment, basking in the adoring gazes, Lian Xing returned to the spectator area, her expression unchanged. After this battle, the other T0 contenders’ assessment of Lian Xing’s strength had increased significantly.

It seemed that her success wasn’t solely due to Star Sand and Calamity Sun…

That Flame Harp, which had instantly annihilated millions of Royal-Tier pet beasts, and that mysterious Viral Species, which had effortlessly blocked all attacks while hidden within her…they were both incredibly powerful!!!

And that Commander-Tier Heaven-Gracing Curtain, evolved from the Moonlight Rabbit, besides having a Green Quality combat skill, it didn’t seem that special…

Meanwhile, back in the spectator area, Lian Xing checked her lineup’s progress while watching the other matches.

[Heaven-Gracing Curtain LV378]

[Azure Mechanical Heart LV60]

[Sun Harp LV60]

[Dreamflow Sunset Glow LV82]

[Star Sand LV59]

After slaughtering millions of Royal-Tier pet beasts, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain’s level had jumped by over 70, most of the experience gained at the beginning of the battle. After the Red Prison Palace Master evolved into the Sun Harp, being considered too powerful for those opponents, the Heaven-Gracing Curtain had stopped gaining experience.

Level 378, it was already within the Monarch-Tier range, yet the Heaven-Gracing Curtain, having embarked on the perfect evolution path, was still stuck at Commander-Tier.

Meanwhile, thanks to her blood-feeding method, Star Sand’s level had finally reached a critical point, just a step away from breaking through to Commander-Tier. Lian Xing preferred breakthroughs during battle… Not only did it boost morale, but it also intimidated the opponent.

So, it was best to unlock Star Sand’s Arcane Arts now, preparing for its breakthrough…

Unlocking a Legend’s Arcane Arts was too conspicuous to do in reality. So, Lian Xing sent Star Sand into Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space. With its current durability, it could conceal…almost any aura leakage.

[Star Sand’s Spirit attribute increased by 50, unlocking the Legend Arcane Art list.]

[Choose 5 out of the following 11 options. One chosen Arcane Art will receive a special Legend enhancement.]

[1. Starless Shackles: Permanently removes one combat skill slot from the user. When other pet beasts have their combat skills sealed, they permanently lose one combat skill slot. When other pet beasts have their Arcane Arts sealed during Awakening, they permanently lose a random Arcane Art. Effective once per target. Only Star Sand can remove this negative status.]

[2. Undying Sand: Permanently removes one combat skill slot from the user. Increases all resistances and enhances sealing priority.]

[3. Star Shift: Changes the exclusive combat skill, Nether Staircase, to Star Vortex, increasing its quality by three levels. Star Vortex’s quality increases with each tier evolution of Star Sand.]

[4. Guiding Star: Permanently removes one combat skill slot from the user. Increases the range and effectiveness of the exclusive combat skill, Nether Staircase/Star Vortex.]

[5. Starfall: Permanently removes one combat skill slot from the user. Converts a combat skill into a permanent talent, its effect scaling with the combat skill’s quality.]

[6. Sand Gathering: The spreading aura is no longer limited to inanimate objects and terrain, gradually…corroding…all living beings.]

[7. Reversal: Permanently removes two combat skill slots from the user. Grants Star Vortex a…reverse…form.]

[8. Inverse Star: Permanently gains two combat skill slots.]

[9. Chaotic Stars: The more combat skill slots the user has lost, the stronger its talents and the faster its leveling speed.]

[10. Starbane: The fewer combat skill slots the user has lost, the stronger its combat skills and the faster its leveling speed.]

[11. Eternal Star Ring: Permanently removes four combat skill slots from the user. Makes Awakening permanent and eliminates Pet Essence consumption for all actions.]

“…”
“…”

A Legend’s Arcane Arts were truly dazzling… And having to choose a compatible set reminded Lian Xing of playing a roguelike game…

After a brief analysis, she identified three main builds.

1. Combat Skill Focused: Using Inverse Star and Starbane as the core, turning Star Sand into a combat skill machine with six slots.

2. Awakening Focused: Using both Inverse Star and Chaotic Stars, combined with Eternal Star Ring, first adding then subtracting, removing all six combat skill slots to maximize the talent’s effect.

3. Star Vortex Focused: Keeping the Nether Staircase/Star Vortex combat skill as the core.

Each build had its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the first one, increasing the number of combat skill slots, was a safe bet, but it relied too much on external resources and combat skills. The second one was more extreme, wasting an Arcane Art point on Inverse Star, then removing it, essentially trading an Arcane Art for other enhancements, but it was the only way to obtain Eternal Star Ring. The third one maximized the effect of Star Vortex, an enhanced version of Nether Staircase. But the Reversal Arcane Art was intriguing, removing two combat skill slots at once, which meant its effect must be powerful…

The third build was probably the optimal choice for Star Sand, but it had a major flaw: not enough Arcane Art points.

[Guiding Star, Starfall, Star Shift, Reversal, Chaotic Stars] Enhancing Nether Staircase to Star Vortex, then converting it into a talent, and finally maximizing its effects…this combination of five Arcane Arts was the fastest way for Star Sand to become powerful.

This Star Vortex build was perfect.

But…

The Arcane Art Lian Xing valued the most was [Starless Shackles].

It was so evil that it almost made her laugh.

Only an Arcane Art of this level of threat was worthy of a Legend!!!

So, Lian Xing reluctantly chose the second build.

[Inverse Star, Chaotic Stars, Eternal Star Ring, Starless Shackles, Undying Sand]

The reason she didn’t choose Sand Gathering for the last slot, but Undying Sand, was because Star Sand didn’t need to be a damage dealer in her lineup. It just needed to maximize its control and sealing abilities, and it would be a terrifying presence.

As she finalized her choices, Star Sand’s combat skill slots first increased to six, then vanished completely. Its original combat skill, Nether Staircase, also disintegrated.

And then, in the next second…

“Boom!!!!!”

A blinding golden light erupted from Star Sand, filling Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space. At the same time, a dreamlike Star Wheel, with chains and a pointer, appeared behind the beautiful, golden figure.

This was the effect of Eternal Star Ring. Star Sand would now permanently be in its awakened state, and its actions wouldn’t consume Pet Essence. This Arcane Art might seem overpowered for others, but for Star Sand, it wasn’t that significant. After all, its awakened Arcane Art, sealing the opponent’s abilities, was a one-time effect, activated the moment it appeared. Afterward, it was just a giant lightbulb, without any other combat abilities.

Permanently maintaining its awakened state…it just looked intimidating…

The main benefits were the elimination of Pet Essence consumption and the talent boost from losing its combat skill slots.

[All Arcane Arts selected. Please choose one Arcane Art for Legend enhancement.]

Facing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Lian Xing chose Starless Shackles without hesitation.

[Starless Shackles’s effect has been changed.]

[1. Starless Shackles: Permanently removes one combat skill slot from the user. When other pet beasts have their combat skills sealed, they permanently lose two combat skill slots. When other pet beasts have their Arcane Arts sealed during Awakening, they permanently lose two random Arcane Arts. Effective once per target. Only Star Sand can remove this negative status.]

Now…

It was perfect…

As Lian Xing had expected, from now on, even an Emperor would be crippled by Star Sand. And against opponents she couldn’t defeat, she could use the threat of permanently losing combat skills and Arcane Arts.

No matter who, regardless of their tier, challenging Star Sand would come at a heavy price…

Meanwhile, Star Sand’s panel had also undergone a dramatic transformation.

[High-Tier — Elemental Species — Star Sand LV59]

[Talent: Star Order, Formless]

[Arcane Art: Inverse Star, Chaotic Stars, Eternal Star Ring, Undying Sand, Starless Shackles (Legend)]

[Combat Skill: No available slots.]

Although Star Sand could no longer use combat skills, Lian Xing didn’t mind. She had been prepared for this since the day she contracted it.

Even a Shining Quality combat skill couldn’t replace Star Sand’s unique abilities.

She casually tossed the dropped Death Sentence into a corner of Dreamflow Sunset Glow’s Viral Space and recalled Star Sand, then turned her attention back to reality.

Allocating Star Sand’s Arcane Arts had taken about two hours, and the top 100 to top 50 matches were almost over. Except for Jade Lady, none of the T0 contenders had been eliminated. Dead Ash, Thunder Fly, Tears Maiden, Little Flower Goddess…their opponents had all forfeited at the start. And the Second Princess of Youyou Leize’s opponent had also forfeited after witnessing the battles of Snow Sun, Jade Lady, and Lian Xing.

The Second Princess of Youyou Leize didn’t have a Legend, but Jade Lady and Lian Xing’s battle had shown everyone…

Even without a Legend, a T0 contender was still a T0 contender. They weren’t someone they could easily defeat…

Soon, all 50 matches were over.

As the battlefields were being restored, the Monarch-Tier commentator from the Dominating Cauldron Palace picked up the microphone.

“The top 100 to top 50 matches have concluded. Those who were eliminated, don’t despair, there’s still a resurrection match after the top 50 to top 25 matches.”

“Now, for the top 50 to top 25 matches, we’ll have a random draw. To ensure absolute fairness, Tears Maiden will be presiding over this process.”

Hearing this, Tears Maiden walked towards the commentary desk, where a lottery box had been prepared. According to the rules, she had to draw 50 slips of paper, each with a participant’s name.

The order in which they were drawn determined the pairings for the next round.

For example, the first and second names drawn would face each other, the third and fourth, and so on, until the 49th and 50th.

At this moment, under everyone’s gaze, Tears Maiden began drawing the slips of paper.

#1 vs #2, #3 vs #4, #5 vs #6…mostly unknown participants. Her movements were fluid and without hesitation.

#7, Youyou Leize, Thunder Fly.

The moment Thunder Fly’s name was called, everyone held their breath.

This was the first T0 contender to be drawn.

As long as they didn’t face a T0 contender, everything would be fine.

Everyone prayed silently.

A few seconds later—

#8, Beast Tamer Alliance, Moon Princess.

At this moment, the other participants sighed in relief, while Moon Princess, who had barely survived her last match, facepalmed.

She had lost three of her pet beasts in the previous match, only her little sister, Golden Flower Flying Moon, remained. There was no way she could face a Legend Beast Tamer in this state…

It seemed…her journey this year was over…

However, Thunder Fly’s appearance was just the beginning…

The next few pairings truly shocked everyone.

#17, Dead Ash.

#18, Little Flower Goddess.

#31, Lian Xing.

#32, Second Princess.

#49, Tears Maiden.

In the top 50 to top 25 matches, there were actually two pairs of T0 contenders facing each other!!!

And…it was Moon Rabbit Lian Xing again!!?

Lian Xing…she was so unlucky…

First Jade Lady, now the Second Princess…

Every round, she was facing a T0 contender!!

At this moment, the purple-haired woman in a court dress, a subtle smile on her face, her alluring eyes and beauty mark incredibly captivating, looked at Lian Xing.

The descendant of the Great Emperor Yun Jianyou…

Lian Xing also glanced at the beautiful, purple-haired woman.

Unlike Chiyu and Moon Princess, whose bloodlines were diluted, she was said to have true Emperor’s blood, her mother even a peak Sovereign-Tier Emperor, a being that had once ruled a dynasty.

With such a prestigious bloodline and status, even if she pulled out four Fluorescent Quality combat skills, Lian Xing wouldn’t be surprised.

Meanwhile, as Lian Xing and the Second Princess exchanged glances…

Dead Ash, the silver-haired girl, glared at the conspicuous palanquin in the distance.

Since arriving in the Dominating Cauldron Palace, Little Flower Goddess of the City of Awe hadn’t even left her palanquin. This display was even more exaggerated than the two princesses of Youyou Leize and Tears Maiden, the seventh lord of the Seven Heavens.

However, she wasn’t worried about Little Flower Goddess.

Because during the second qualifier round, the Azure Sky Emperor’s cauldron’s aura had clearly caused Little Flower Goddess great pain, her palanquin shaking violently. This meant that her strength wasn’t that impressive…

If nothing unexpected happened, Extinction could probably win this match.