Ch. 21Elite Student Assessment
Plot points and events
- After his mother leaves, Chen Lie eats all the Exotic Beast Meat and channels its violent energy through the third form of the Basic Body Tempering Technique. Ten repetitions over two hours leave his blood and qi several times stronger; he estimates his Blood Qi Value has at least doubled.
- He then practices the Star Constellation Visualization Method. His strong Mental Power lets him go without sleep, but without a Spirit Nourishing Flower his cultivation is slow, and he fails to light a star in the Gui Constellation.
- At school, Chen Lie tells instructor Ren Hongguang that his Blood Qi Value has passed 3 and requests promotion to the Elite Class. Ren verifies his strength by checking his pulse and cautions that final-year applicants face additional tests of strength and aptitude.
- Chen Lie insists he is ready. Ren approves his recommendation form and directs him to attend the assessment at noon.
- At the assessment center, Chen Lie learns that Elite Students receive substantial monthly subsidies and preferential martial-arts resources. While other applicants wait with their parents, he waits alone and lets the parents finish at the counter before approaching.
Character developments and interactions
- Chen Lie shows discipline and confidence: he pushes his body through demanding training, recognizes the limits of his progress without the flower, and pursues Elite status despite the stricter final-year assessment. He keeps his true history and strength private.
- Ren Hongguang is initially surprised but accepts Chen Lie’s demonstrated strength. He advises caution rather than dismissing the request, then supports him by approving the form.
- Other students’ families provide anxious, encouraging contrast: parents reassure their children about meeting the Blood Qi requirement and passing the assessment. Chen Lie remains detached from the surrounding conversations.
Significant themes
- Self-improvement through disciplined training: Chen Lie converts powerful but dangerous energy into physical gains through technique.
- Hidden strength and earned recognition: He has concealed his progress and now seeks formal advancement.
- Competition and opportunity: Elite status offers meaningful resources and can shape students’ futures.
- Different forms of support: Many students arrive with family encouragement, while Chen Lie handles the process independently.