Charging Up to the Fifth Tier!

Countless gazes fell on them like searchlights, carrying scrutiny, curiosity, mockery, and... the cold indifference reserved for the dead.

Su Yunwan was startled by the spectacle and instinctively clutched Lin Ming's sleeve.

Lin Ming gently patted the back of her hand to reassure her, then pulled free. Without slowing in the slightest, he walked steadily up the steps, one step at a time, under everyone's watchful eyes, toward the black arena that radiated an ominous aura.

Gao Tianba also took a deep breath, suppressing the killing intent in his heart and the faint thrill of being the center of attention. He ascended the arena from the other side with his three lackeys.

His gaze swept over the sea of people below, and a surge of pride rose within him.

Today would be the first step for Gao Tianba to make his name in the Special Training Camp! He would forge his reputation with this ignorant brat's blood!

Above the arena hung an enormous light screen displaying a countdown and the simple rules.

A Tier Four martial artist in referee attire stood expressionlessly at the edge of the arena. His aura was deep and steady, clearly marking him as a camp staff member, as he confirmed both sides' identities.

"South River Base City's Lin Ming has voluntarily entered the Life-and-Death Arena to face Gao Tianba of East Forest Base City. Life and death are their own responsibility; outsiders may not interfere. Do both parties confirm?" The referee's icy voice echoed through the entire venue via an amplification device.

"I confirm!" Gao Tianba roared first, a cruel gleam flashing in his eyes.

Lin Ming merely nodded faintly. "Mm."

"The duel begins!"

The instant the referee finished speaking, he drifted backward, leaving the entire arena to the two men.

"Lin Ming!" Gao Tianba