It took Yun Ye ten days to recover after his first attempt at using the awakening technique. Fortunately, his first qualifying battle was against members of Bailiangang, meaning he faced no real threat but gained no significant advantage either. Bailiangang members could lose to Yun Ye up to three times before demanding extra payments.
In the actual combat ranking, victories earned extra points while losses resulted in deductions. At the end of the year, those in the bottom 20 would be downgraded, affecting their development and training opportunities. Yun Ye, currently on his third test, would face opponents within the same range, yet his year of study still left him at a disadvantage in actual combat due to his ordinary physique, spiritual awareness, and perception.
To survive and improve, Yun Ye had two months before the next mandatory ranking battle, allowing him time to prepare.
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At the No. 6 performance field, Yun Ye and Wang Yao sparred fiercely, resulting in numerous wounds. This level of intensity was a basic requirement for practicing Tiger Fist. After exhausting themselves, they ended in a draw. Yun Ye sighed, recognizing the importance of talent. Despite his hard work and growth, Wang Yao's intuition allowed him to match Yun Ye's level.
Through their interactions, Yun Ye had fully assessed Wang Yao's abilities:
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**Villager of Sanhe Village: Wang Yao**
- **Area:** Baishi Town Sanhe Village
- **Lifespan:** 12/57
- **Fate:** D
- **Physique:** C
- **Consciousness:** E
- **Comprehension:** D
- **spiritual root:** C
- **Dao device:** 0
- **Strength:** D
- **Introduction:** The son of a farmer with hidden single soil spiritual roots, potentially able to thrive in Baishi Town.
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Wang Yao's double-C talent was notable, likely placing him in a Class B school, but his physical talent overshadowed his spiritual tools, resulting in placement in a Class C school. The disparity in teacher quality and teaching mentality among A, B, C, and D schools could significantly impact one's development.
After their practice, Yun Ye and Wang Yao jogged together. Wang Yao mentioned hearing about a village near Hongshan being slaughtered by demons, leaving hundreds dead. Yun Ye suspected Shi Baiyan's group was behind it. The frequent demon attacks in Baishi Town seemed orchestrated, as the town should have protective mechanisms to maintain safety.
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Yun Ye decided to continue practicing the awakening technique. Concentrating life energy towards his chest was essential for awakening his spiritual roots, requiring precise control to prevent energy loss and injury. His first attempt had failed due to guidance issues, and despite more confidence, his second attempt also ended in failure.
Acknowledging his lack of talent, Yun Ye decided he needed medicines to quickly restore vitality. He would invest in medicinal meals, which, though expensive, were necessary to expedite his training. This would further strain his finances, necessitating additional income sources.