After rejecting the invitation from the Tiger Soul Research Institute, Feng Qi's life returned to normal.
For the next few days, aside from attending classes, he spent most of his time buried in cultivation studies at the library with Lin Ran.
During this period, he repeatedly urged Lin Ran to develop a cultivation technique that could "counteract consciousness parasitism."
However, this type of technique was uncharted territory for Lin Ran, and whether he could succeed remained uncertain.
All Feng Qi could do was wait and hope.
If Lin Ran succeeded, it would greatly enhance Feng Qi's future dreamscape endeavors, providing him with a formidable ally.
Besides cultivation studies, Feng Qi also began exploring foundational knowledge about domain combat squad formations.
This knowledge was crucial for his future plans to venture into domain fields and gather resources.
Today was a particularly unusual day.
In the early morning, Feng Qi received a call from the academy's medical examination department, asking him to organize his class to participate in a routine physical examination at the gymnasium.
He readily agreed without hesitation.
After getting up and washing, he opened the class group chat to inform Lü Yue and the others about the schedule before heading to the cafeteria.
After having breakfast with Lin Ran and Mu Qing, they proceeded to the classroom.
By the time they arrived, Lü Yue and the rest of the class were already there.
After explaining the physical examination schedule, he led the class to the gymnasium.
The gymnasium was already bustling with activity. Nearly all the students had gathered there.
After all, these large-scale physical examinations were a big deal for the students. The devices allowed them to clearly see how their strength had changed over time.
In the real world, strength progression wasn't measured by a numerical combat power stat like in games.
Without detection devices to measure aspects like bloodline strength, it was difficult for the students to accurately gauge their capabilities.
Feng Qi led his classmates to the queue to collect their numbers, and they began lining up.
At Star City Academy, physical examinations were divided into two types: weekly minor exams and monthly comprehensive exams.
Every student was required to attend both types of examinations, and their physical data would be recorded in real time.
There were exceptions, though, such as special students like Mu Qing.
For special students, the academy turned a blind eye to non-participation. After all, these students had strong backing and could graduate without doing much, as long as they didn't cause major problems.
Mu Qing, for instance, was admitted to Star City Academy through her connections with the Crimson Research Institute. As long as she didn't break any major rules, she could easily graduate without lifting a finger.
The academy implemented these physical exams primarily to assess the progress of students' cultivation.
For students in combat classes, failing the physical exams could result in a "warning." Receiving four warnings in a semester would lead to an evaluation of the student's attitude and likely expulsion.
This policy was necessary.
The academy's purpose was to nurture students who could contribute to the development of human civilization—not to support freeloaders.
The academy invested significant resources in its students. If they didn't put in the effort, it was a waste of resources—and of the taxes paid by the people of Star City.
Many students, upon entering the academy, became complacent due to the comfortable lifestyle.
Thus, the physical exams served as a means of oversight.
The exams were also crucial for students' safety.
Mistakes in cultivation could lead to latent risks that students might not even realize.
Unchecked, these risks could result in paralysis, impotence, or even sudden death.
Additionally, the exams ensured students weren't practicing unregistered or uncertified techniques. Any violation would result in immediate expulsion.
In this way, the physical exams resembled pre-cataclysm tests in their importance.
Inside the gymnasium, five towering four-meter-tall devices flashed lights as students queued in order to undergo their examinations.
As each student completed their examination, the device displayed detailed data about their body on a screen in front.
The results included current physical stats, cultivation techniques practiced, and more.
Additionally, the screen displayed comparative data from the previous examination, along with a percentage indicator showing improvement.
For instance, if a student's weight had increased from 60kg to 70kg, the data would include a reference percentage such as (+11.666%).
The physical examination data was exceptionally detailed.
Each class teacher carried a tablet, recording their students' data in real time to tailor subsequent training.
Furthermore, the results were uploaded to Star City's database in real time.
During the exams, whenever a particularly talented student achieved outstanding results, the crowd would erupt in chatter.
While waiting, Feng Qi, Lin Ran, and the others casually discussed combat squad configurations.
The upcoming freshman combat squad tournament was a significant event, and everyone took it seriously.
At that moment, Xu Hongyun, the chubby student, sighed:
"If only Le Ping'an were still here. Our class is already small, and without him, we're even smaller."
The atmosphere grew somber.
Le Ping'an's disappearance remained a mystery, one known only to Feng Qi.
Although they hadn't been particularly close, Le Ping'an was still a classmate. They had spent time together, and his absence left a mark.
As the mood grew heavy, an announcement echoed from afar:
"Combat Class Three, batch 2023, report to Station Five for your physical examination."
Hearing this, Feng Qi stood up and called to his classmates:
"Let's go. Time to get your exams done. I want to see your actual stats."
The students got up and followed him to Station Five, queuing up in an orderly fashion.
As the line moved forward, Feng Qi eagerly anticipated seeing his classmates' results.
The first to enter the examination device was the monk.
As he stepped inside, the metallic door closed with a quiet hiss, and the lights on the left side of the machine began to flicker.
Moments later, his physical data appeared on the screen above the device.
Huixu (23rd Combat Class)
Age: 17
Height: 176.3 cm (First medical examination data, no comparative data)
Weight: 64.6 kg
Spiritual Energy Quality: Unranked
Detected Cultivation Techniques: Basic Technique, Cultivation Techniques 2.0
Bloodline Strength: 34.8
Strength Evaluation: Third-tier Martial Artist (Unranked)
…
When Hui Xu's physical data appeared on the screen, Feng Qi remained composed.
As expected, Hui Xu was still a "work in progress."
Unperturbed, Hui Xu glanced at his own results after stepping out of the examination device and even nodded in satisfaction.
Next up was Xu Hongyun, the chubby student.
His results were even worse, with his strength evaluation only reaching the level of a Second-Tier Martial Artist, still unranked.
Feng Qi wasn't surprised; given their starting points, this was understandable.
What mattered was their future effort. With proper guidance and determination, he was confident in their potential to become exceptional.
The treasure trove of cultivation techniques from 1500 years later was Feng Qi's ace.
Many future cultivation methods began where present techniques ended. As long as they were willing to learn, the possibilities were endless.
Next, the Xia family brothers stepped up for their tests.
The results for all three were markedly better. Each had achieved Black Iron–Lower Tier, with the eldest, Xia Long, reaching Black Iron–Middle Tier.
Their results caused a stir among the crowd.
When it was Lü Yue's turn, there was a noticeable shift in the atmosphere.
As Lü Yue stepped into the examination device, the surrounding students turned their attention toward him.
Lü Yue, regarded as the strongest freshman in their cohort, was already well-known.
The spectators were eager to see just how far his abilities had progressed.
Lü Yue's test took significantly longer than others.
After about ten minutes, his results finally appeared on the screen.
Lü Yue (Combat Class 3, 2023)
Age: 18
Height: 179.2 cm
Weight: 71 kg
Spiritual Energy Quality: Bronze–Mid Tier
Detected Cultivation Techniques: None
Note: Unauthorized cultivation technique pathway detected. The technique "Intent" has been flagged. Data has been uploaded to Star City Academy for further investigation.
Bloodline Strength: 1032.8
Strength Evaluation: Bronze–High Tier
Note: Due to the detected unauthorized cultivation method, the strength evaluation may be inaccurate. Further assessment required.
Seeing Lü Yue's results, Feng Qi was momentarily stunned.
He had assumed Lü Yue's strength was around Bronze–Lower Tier, but it turned out he had already reached Bronze–High Tier.
This evaluation didn't even account for the "Sword Intent" technique that Lü Yue was famous for.
Given that Lü Yue's greatest strength lay in his mastery of Sword Intent, Feng Qi estimated that his actual combat capability was likely at the Silver Tier.
An 18-year-old with Silver Tier strength was nearly unheard of, even across the major academies of the Eastern Region.
Such power set Lü Yue apart from his peers.
In fact, there were likely only a handful of senior students in Star City Academy who could rival Lü Yue.
The commotion caused by Lü Yue's test results spread rapidly through the gymnasium.
The crowd's reaction mirrored Feng Qi's astonishment. Many found it hard to believe the data displayed before them.
Stepping out of the examination device, Lü Yue glanced at the results on the screen with a calm demeanor. He appeared entirely unfazed by his impressive performance.
Seeing this, the Xia family brothers couldn't help but mutter among themselves.
Their comments ranged from "Lü Yue is such a show-off," to "Big brother was right," and "Second brother was right."
Feng Qi couldn't suppress a smile.
Lü Yue's overwhelming strength would be pivotal for the upcoming freshman combat squad tournament.
Since Lin Ran and Mu Qing were unable to participate, Lü Yue had become the class's core combatant.
Next, it was Lin Ran's turn to step into the examination device.
After a brief wait, Lin Ran's information appeared on the screen.
Lin Ran (Tiger Soul Early Admission Student)
Age: 18
Height: 175.6 cm (unchanged)
Weight: 63.5 kg (+2.34%)
Spiritual Energy Quality: Black Iron–High Tier (Previous: Black Iron–High Tier)
Detected Cultivation Techniques:
Natural Dao Method
True Form Incantation
Basic Gymnastics
Training Exercises 2.0
Bloodline Strength: 387.7
Strength Evaluation: Black Iron–High Tier (unchanged)
Lin Ran was already a well-known figure within Star City Academy.
His strength had been discussed extensively on the academy forum, and some students had even dug up Lin Ran's previous test results from Winterfell Academy's forum.
As such, his results didn't surprise anyone.
Finally, it was Mu Qing's turn.
This was Mu Qing's first-ever examination at Star City Academy, and while the other students seemed indifferent, Feng Qi and their classmates were brimming with curiosity.
After seeing Lü Yue's results, the students couldn't imagine how terrifying Mu Qing's test results might be.
Even Lü Yue, typically composed, turned his gaze toward the screen, waiting intently for the data.
Mu Qing's test took significantly longer than anyone else's.
Her examination lasted more than twice as long as Lü Yue's, leaving the staff operating the device puzzled.
Some even began to suspect the equipment had malfunctioned.
At that moment, Mu Qing's results finally appeared on the screen.
Instead of detailed data, however, what appeared was a warning message.
[ALERT]
Testing Error: Bloodline Strength Exceeds Evaluation Limit. Unable to Assess Power Level.
The moment this result flashed on the screen, the crowd broke into an uproar.
As the doors of the testing device slowly opened, Mu Qing stepped out with her usual calm demeanor. She glanced at the screen, her expression shifting to one of mild exasperation.
"Not the first time?" Feng Qi asked curiously as Mu Qing approached.
Mu Qing nodded slightly. "Mm. The Crimson Research Institute has tested me several times. Every time I hit a new stage, my bloodline strength spikes drastically, frequently exceeding testing limits."
"Director Wei said my strength cannot be accurately measured using conventional devices. Bloodline strength is only part of my overall power," she explained.
Hearing this, Feng Qi broke into a broad grin. "That's exactly what I'd expect from you—absolutely unmatched."
Mu Qing chuckled lightly, her embarrassment showing in her smile.
The surrounding students, however, were stunned.
While it was well known that testing results could vary, and strength wasn't determined by bloodline strength and spiritual energy alone—factors like combat skills and situational awareness also mattered—seeing someone surpass the testing limits was entirely unprecedented.
And the idea that Mu Qing, who was usually only seen feasting in the academy cafeteria, possessed strength leagues beyond anyone else's left the crowd dumbfounded.
With the astonished gazes trailing them, Feng Qi led Combat Class Three out of the gymnasium.
Returning to his dorm, Feng Qi opened the fridge and retrieved the half-empty bottle of Clear Mind Brew he had left from the last time.
Sitting down at his desk, he began planning his future.
This time, he was determined to infiltrate the Institute of Technological Research in the upcoming dream realm timeline to gather intelligence.
Although the broad outline of his plan was clear, meticulous planning for the timeline's execution was still necessary.
He opened his notebook and began to jot down ideas.
A short while later, several detailed entries were added to the page:
Submit the Brain-in-a-Vat project data to the Crimson Research Institute, enabling them to pivot their research direction in the next timeline.
After joining the Institute of Technological Research, collaborate with Mo Fei to uncover its internal secrets.
If possible, leverage the Institute of Technological Research's influence to undermine the Tiger Soul Research Institute, potentially even inciting conflict between the two organizations. This could provide humanity with a critical window of opportunity.
Use Wei Wei to leave a detailed account of the Flesh Sacrifice Technique in the historical database. Return this technique to the present timeline and share it with Old Wang in the next cycle. He could then research countermeasures against it, effectively "vaccinating" human civilization.
...
...
Time flew by as Feng Qi worked, and when he finally stopped writing, his notebook contained over twenty future plans.
Closing the notebook, Feng Qi glanced at the bottle of Clear Mind Brew on his desk.
Without hesitation, he uncorked the bottle and downed its contents in one gulp.
Warmth surged through his body as the energy progress bar flickered in response.
Leaning back into his chair, he felt the alcohol's effects washing over him, his mind growing hazy. Without wasting a moment, he lay on his bed, preparing to enter the dream realm.
As his eyelids grew heavy, sleep overcame him. His breathing steadied, and his expression grew tranquil.
It was unclear how much time had passed.
Feng Qi was jolted awake by the sound of his phone ringing.
Opening his eyes, he was surprised to find that he hadn't entered the dream realm.
Reaching over to the sofa, he grabbed his phone and saw Lin Ran's name on the screen.
When he answered, Lin Ran's voice came through, tinged with impatience:
"Qi-ge, it's almost dinnertime. Why haven't you come down yet?"
Glancing at the clock, Feng Qi realized it was already time for dinner.
After giving Lin Ran a quick reply, he ended the call.
He then tried to summon the energy progress bar to check what had gone wrong, but to his astonishment, the interface didn't appear.
"System, show up!"
His call was met with silence.
Puzzled, Feng Qi tried a few more times, but there was no response.
This made him realize something alarming.
He had lost the system interface.
He also attempted to switch into his combat form, but as expected, he no longer had that ability. It was as though he had become an ordinary human.
Reflecting on these changes, Feng Qi couldn't ignore the truth.
It was finally his turn—this timeline had clearly become a sacrifice line.
A wry smile crept across his face.
Taking a deep breath, he steadied his thoughts, his expression resolute.
He had long anticipated this moment.
In the days ahead, he resolved to follow through on his plans, beginning with infiltrating the Institute of Technological Research to uncover critical information.