Long-Awaited 'Base Life'

The grueling training continued for an entire week, and the base finally regained some of its old quiet.

The Star Power amplification pod in the training grounds gave a soft click as its heavy door slowly shut.

Tiandao stepped out at an unhurried pace, still carrying the residual warmth of his training. Beads of sweat slid down the sharp line of his jaw and spread into tiny damp marks at his neck.

Azure Star Power swirled around him in a faint halo before completely withdrawing into his body and settling into stillness.

Before long, the icy sharpness between Tiandao's brows faded, replaced by the faint exhaustion that came with finally loosening his tense state.

After steadying his breathing, Tiandao started toward the lounge. Yet before he had taken more than a few steps, a set of hurried, light footsteps firmly blocked his path.

"Tiandao!"

Jing Liuli ran over with Ink Shadow in her arms. The pale hem of her dress swept across the floor, stirring a faint current of air. Ink Shadow poked its head out from her embrace, its round golden beast eyes glittering as they stared at Tiandao.

Its little paws clung tightly to Jing Liuli's sleeve as it swayed gently, while the tip of its fluffy tail flicked rapidly over her arm, brimming with excitement.

"Tiandao, let's go to the kitchen! Sister Yun is roasting Star Beast energy jerky for Xiao Jin. She even added crushed Star Energy Fruit. It smells amazing, and it replenishes Star Power too. Come try some with us!"

Jing Liuli's voice was bright with excitement, and anticipation filled her eyes. Even Ink Shadow in her arms nodded along, its little head bobbing up and down in an especially obedient, adorable manner.

At that, Tiandao instinctively wanted to refuse.

In his eyes, training