Chapter 183 - 183: Poisoned
Although he did mean it, it would be embarrassing if others found out.
Gu Zhicheng told himself to stay calm and not ruin his efforts.
He took a few deep breaths to steady his emotions.
“Qingluan, you misunderstood me. I meant that with so many matches, Xiaonan is still young, and we should advise him to be careful and not overexert himself.”
Gu Qingluan replied casually, “Xiaonan is young and full of energy, but it’s Gu Jinrong who seems to be not doing so well.”
Indeed, Gu Jinrong didn’t have the same luck as Gu Xiaonan. Each of his matches was a real struggle, and as the rounds progressed, the fights became tougher.
Particularly, in the two matches he lost just now, he fought desperately and ended up with numerous injuries. Now, his face was pale, his hair was in disarray, and his clothes had several tears, making him look much more disheveled than Gu Xiaonan.
Gu Zhicheng was left speechless at the striking difference between the two.
In normal circumstances, the matches should not be arranged so closely together.
However, the selection process at the Qiankun Academy was not solely based on cultivation level but also tested various aspects of combat ability and endurance.
Only those who stand till the end have the qualification to enter the Qiankun Academy and become its students.
Gu Zhicheng was concerned that Gu Qingluan might once again proclaim his thoughts loudly, exposing them to everyone. He didn’t want to keep persuading her.
He didn’t blame Gu Qingluan entirely; instead, he blamed the second branch of the family, especially Gu Jinyue.
If they hadn’t repeatedly offended Gu Qingluan, she wouldn’t treat Gu Jinrong so mercilessly.
Forget it. He would let fate decide the result.
Anyway, losing one nephew’s chance to enter the Qiankun Academy wouldn’t significantly impact the future of the Gu family.
Amidst the swirling undercurrents among the spectators, Gu Xiaonan and Gu Jinrong ascended the arena.
Gu Jinrong hadn’t anticipated that his final match against Gu Xiaonan would determine his future.
As he looked at the innocent and cheerful boy before him, memories of the encounters on the sea flashed through his mind.
Suddenly, a chill surged from his feet, straight to his brain.
Could he defeat Gu Xiaonan?
No, he must win!
This was his chance to change his fate; he couldn’t afford to lose!
He had to win this match, no matter what it took!
Determined, Gu Jinrong’s eyes sparkled with resolve, and he clenched his hand tightly at his side.
He raised his chin, looking down at his opponent. “Gu Xiaonan, the arena is full of uncertainties. You’ve come this far mostly through luck. Let me advise you, be smart and step down by yourself. You can’t defeat me!”
Gu Xiaonan looked up at the sky with a puzzled expression. “It’s not even dark yet, and you’re already dreaming? Oh, I understand. This is called daydreaming!”
Gu Jinrong’s face instantly darkened, and he muttered under his breath, “Sharp-tongued brat! Just wait until I make you cry and regret it!”
Not intimidated by the fleeting murderous intent in Gu Jinrong’s eyes, Gu Xiaonan grinned and nodded playfully. “Here’s some advice for you too: Don’t cry if you lose the match!”
“1 won’t cry!” Gu Jinrong’s face turned somber. A radiant light shimmered around him as he lunged towards Gu Xiaonan.
The onlookers couldn’t hear their conversation clearly, but they saw Gu Jinrong making his move. They stopped whispering and turned their full attention to the duel.
Gu Jinrong took the initiative, closing the distance to Gu Xiaonan in an instant.
In the blink of an eye, he stood before Gu Xiaonan.
At that moment, Gu Jinrong activated the hidden poison, concealed within a brilliant display of arcane power, and scattered it towards Gu Xiaonan.
The poison was colorless and tasteless, hidden within the arcane power, making it difficult for an average person to detect.
Once Gu Xiaonan was poisoned and lost his arcane power, he would become a helpless prey, completely at the mercy of Gu Jinrong, and would have no choice but to accept his fate.
By then, Gu Jinrong would secure his place among the top three!
A sinister smile crept onto Gu Jinrong’s face as he witnessed the unfolding scene..