Chapter 105

Chapter 105

The venue for the final match of the individual competition was set at the Inra Stadium's main arena, the same location where the opening ceremony and the elimination rounds of the Imperial Military Academy Competition were held.

The main arena covers over twenty hectares, with a completely transparent glass roof, not only equipped with a star system radiation barrier but also capable of simulating any desired weather condition. Regardless of the weather, it ensures excellent lighting; the circular spectator stands can accommodate hundreds of thousands of viewers, and the central competition field can expand or contract depending on the size of the event.

Now, as far as the eye could see in the seemingly boundless spectator stands, was a dazzling sea of gold, akin to the bright noonday sun.

The audience at the venue, be they Alpha, Beta, or Omega, all wore gold clothing with Queqiu's name in gold lettering. In the capital star, this same clothing style had sold out before the finals, and now, they all appeared on the bodies of the live audience.

From the first row to the last, almost every row of the stands had people unfurling giant banners. This wasn't the work of a few people but a nearly 2000-meter-long stretch of spectators from start to finish, together unfurling a golden banner that encircled the entire venue.

The banner, written in artistic fonts, bore many slogans in support of Queqiu and signatures of numerous fans. They wanted to stand with the little Omega in this way, fighting alongside him.

When the venue's ventilation system started, a gentle breeze lifted these golden banners, making the long rows flutter rhythmically with the wind, resembling the undulating waves of the sea.

In addition to the support clothing and banners, many fans had painted small suns or stars on their faces. These playful and lively images, captured by cameras and magnified on the holographic screens as fans entered, made for a cheerful display. Some even approached the camera to show off their painted faces to the live audience, or groups of friends would laugh and point to the gold patterns on each other's faces, declaring themselves fans of Queqiu and expressing their support.

Amid the bustling stands, there were occasional gold balloons, banners, and other items mingling with the gold support clothing, face paintings, and banners, collectively forming a vast sea of gold.

The sunlight, streaming through the transparent glass roof, bathed every audience member and their gold support items in warm and radiant light. This, combined with the warm reflected light, created a shimmering effect like the glistening waves on the sea surface, sparkling and bright as if stars had been scattered into the ocean.

From being underestimated by everyone at the beginning, mocked for being an Omega who chose combat, and doubted by many, Queqiu walked step by step from the seven consecutive victories in the group stage, to ten in the elimination rounds, and then two more in the Top 100, measuring his journey with one victory after another, all the way to the final match. He conquered all doubts with his strength, ultimately reaping this magnificent, breathtaking golden sea.

Not only were the on-site spectators full of enthusiasm, but Queqiu, too, was filled with gratification and emotion upon seeing the golden sea they had created for him.

Although he didn't care whether he was liked or recognized, when he actually received all this, he felt the most satisfying happiness in the world.

It was a sea of gold composed of live individuals and their sincere love, drop by drop, piece by piece, the most beautiful golden sea Queqiu had ever seen.

He bowed slightly in all directions, expressing his sincere gratitude to the audience who supported him.

Seeing Queqiu's gesture, the audience became even more enthusiastic, calling his name and synchronously raising their banners, striving to let Queqiu know they were always supporting, believing in, and fond of him.

When Felix entered and saw this scene, he was nearly driven to fury, glaring fiercely amidst a pure sea of gold, struggling to find his own support color.

But the high saturation of gold nearly blinded him, unable to find even a hint of red.

Especially since it was his entrance, yet the crowd was excitedly chanting another's name. The unprecedented differential treatment was unbearable for Felix, with his bad mood clearly written on his face.

Actually, Felix did have fans. After all, he was from the prestigious Empire's First Military Academy and an S-class combat Alpha himself. Though not as popular as Queqiu, he had attracted quite a strong fanbase.

However, seeing the spectacular golden sea, Felix's fans dared not speak out. They silently pulled out gold clothes they had prepared beforehand from their backpacks, covering their red attire, and instantly transformed into long-time fans of Queqiu.

As they joined in, they naturally shouted Queqiu's name, perfectly blending in.

To ensure fairness and impartiality, the final match still had no host, with the Super Star Brain serving as referee and presenter, introducing the two competitors to the live and online audience.

"Ladies and gentlemen in the venue and watching the live broadcast, welcome to the final match of the Imperial Military Academy Interstellar Competition's individual event!"

As the voice fell, the stands erupted with frenzied screams and thunderous applause.

This was followed by the introduction of the two competitors.

"The two competitors who will bring us the pinnacle showdown of the final are, from the Empire's First Military Academy, S-class combat Flamingo Alpha Felix, and—"

"From Siku Star Military Academy, S-class combat Omega, Queqiu!"

When Queqiu's name flashed on the holographic screen, the hundreds of thousands of spectators at the venue completely erupted, frantically waving their giant banners, jumping, swinging, and screaming his name.

The main arena was a vast sea of gold.

Though there was no host, this important final match of the individual event, unlike the earlier group stages and elimination rounds, had invited many high-profile guests to watch.

They sat in the first row of the spectator seats, occupying prime viewing positions. The gathering of so many celebrities in one place was a rare spectacle in itself.

Queqiu casually glanced down at the audience and, in that brief look, saw many nobles and celebrities, some of whom he had met or at least knew a little about.

As the second prince of the imperial royal family, Duan Chenlin naturally took center stage, seated right in the middle of the first row.

To his left, the curly-haired man with elegant manners, occasionally turning to listen attentively to others, was the Empire's foremost noble, the first-class Duke Jaquili.

Queqiu even spotted Liu Changming, who, as per rumors, managed the Empire's Genetic Research Institute despite being an Omega, and was now chatting amiably with others.

Seemingly feeling Queqiu's gaze, Liu Changming turned, smiling at the young Omega on the field, his eyes reflecting admiration for a junior.

However, for some reason, even amidst the fervent atmosphere of the match, Queqiu felt something unsettling in that gaze directed at him.

Before he could ponder further, a comment from Felix, passing by his side, snapped Queqiu out of his thoughts.

"Hmph, you only made it to the final because those useless Alphas and Betas were too weak. But unfortunately for you, you're facing me in the final. Soon, I'll show you what S-class Alpha strength really is."

Queqiu withdrew his gaze from the audience, not even dignifying Felix's juvenile taunt with a glance.

The Omega stood tall and faced forward, as if nothing and no one could divert his attention or halt his progress.

He left Felix with just one dismissive remark.

"Is that so? I'll also quickly show you what a one-man show looks like."

Felix's face darkened, and he snorted, "Tough talk."

Queqiu didn’t retort; he preferred proving himself through actions rather than harsh words.

Then, in front of the entire Empire, Queqiu performed a true overpowering show.

No sooner had the Super Star Brain's emotionless electronic voice announced the start of the match than Queqiu was already closing in on Felix before he could even assume an offensive stance.

“！”

Disbelieving, Felix widened his eyes and instinctively dodged to the left, barely avoiding Queqiu's powerful leg sweep.

Even though he dodged in time, he still felt a lingering fear, looking in panic at where he had just stood: How is this possible?!

He's so fast?!

Despite making an enemy of Queqiu and appearing confident in front of the reporters, Felix didn't dare underestimate Queqiu, spending every day analyzing his match replays, frame by frame.

Eventually, even his dreams were filled with Queqiu's match data, as if he was his biggest fan.

Thus, Felix knew Queqiu well. For instance, before the top 100 battles, Queqiu was so strong it seemed unreal for someone from the empire, probably even Marshal Duan Chensen couldn't best him, let alone himself.

But after the top 100, Felix could clearly sense that this once invincible Omega had somehow become much weaker.

Of course, compared to other competitors, Queqiu was still strong, but whether it was stamina, physical reaction time, or agility, he was no longer the same.

Even in the match that led to his semifinal advancement, he still needed the help of the falcon Alpha.

At first, Felix couldn't understand why Qiu suddenly changed so drastically, but later, a casual remark from Dong Kui made him realize: perhaps it was because Omega was nearing adulthood and his estrous period, significantly weakening his combat strength compared to before.

Besides this, Felix couldn't think of any other reason or explanation.

After realizing this, he was naturally overjoyed: it meant that Qiu was no longer the invincible god, and he, Felix, would have a great chance of winning in the finals.

That's why Felix dared to utter such arrogant words to the reporters and cameras after advancing to the final — he truly believed that Qiu was severely affected by his estrous period, greatly diminishing his strength.

But now, as the match began, his opponent launched a swift and fierce attack, completely dragging Felix into his own rhythm.

Qiu's performance greatly differed from what Felix had anticipated, utterly confounding the confident Alpha just a few seconds earlier:

What happened to the estrous period and the supposed decline in strength?!

This is clearly an all-out effort!

If it had been Qiu who had just entered his prime and was still unfamiliar with mental power, he probably wouldn't have dared to attack so recklessly against a well-rested Felix.

But Qiu is definitely a genius among geniuses.

After just two battles of adaptation, he had already completely mastered the use of mental power, as skillfully as using his innate spiritual power.

Even without relying on spiritual power, Qiu believed he could still beautifully clinch victory in this match.

After a brief warm-up, Qiu didn't intend to let Felix off easily. His long legs, not only straight and attractive, were the most aggressive weapons of his body. Turning around and kicking up, he landed a heavy blow on Felix's shoulder, shaking the robust Alpha's arm numb.

The brief pain caused Felix's defense to deform, greatly facilitating Qiu's offense. He launched a series of flying kicks, forcing his opponent to retreat repeatedly and putting him at a significant disadvantage right from the start.

If the finals opponent had not been Felix or a student from the Empire's First Military Academy, Qiu, considering the audience's viewing experience and the feelings of his opponent, would have been merciful, not as ruthless as he was now.

Unfortunately for them, Qiu, since arriving in this world, had few dislikes, one being nobles, and the other, people from the Empire's First Military Academy.

He had already vowed to turn the final of this military school tournament into his own show, and there was no way he would go back on his word.

Felix, cast as the villainous supporting character, immerses himself in a performance targeted at him, one that's unforgettable.

After warming up, Qiu retracted his leg whip, extended his right hand, and lightly brushed his earlobe with his pale fingertips, touching the small, icy dagger earring.

With a thought, he summoned magical machinery. Twinkles of silver light swirled around the golden-haired Omega, making the scene of battle resemble a beautifully ethereal painting.

As his right hand naturally fell, Qiu already had a silver whip in his grasp.

Daniel and Qian Feiliu, sitting in the player's viewing area, shivered uncontrollably at the sight of this familiar weapon, their minds flashing back to the moment they were cruelly whipped and pinned against the pillars in the arena.

Felix noticed his teammates' reaction from the corner of his eye, and his expression soured, clearly making the same connection.

However, he was more stubborn than Daniel and Qian Feiliu.

"It's just a whip, isn't it?" the Flamingo Alpha scoffed, failing to understand why his useless teammates were so afraid.

Then, with a hefty swing, a flaming whip materialized in his hand.

"I have one too!"

He lashed the whip, which struck towards Qiu like a fiery serpent.

The blazing flames illuminated half the arena and Qiu's face, his already clear golden eyes sparkling even brighter in the firelight.

The audience gasped in awe; Felix, an S-class combat Alpha, demonstrated a mastery of flame control far surpassing his teammate Santos.

But these little flames were hardly a challenge for Qiu.

He swung his silver whip, each movement pulling at his entire body, his black tight-fitting uniform revealing every fluid line of his figure.

A flash of silver light sliced the fiery serpent in half.

Then, it was Qiu's turn to attack.

Felix might be skilled with fire, but when it came to wielding a whip, he was no match for Qiu.

Almost instantly, the fierce silver whip cut through the air with a whistling sound, heading straight for its target.

Felix hastily conjured a wall of fire, attempting to fend off Qiu's onslaught. However, even a towering inferno couldn't melt mitril, the universe's hardest substance. Thus, the silver whip's unstoppable force easily breached the fiery barrier.

The whip, like a cold-light gleaming silver snake, hissed as it surged towards Felix, biting into his shoulder and drawing a spray of bright red blood.

Felix grunted in pain, instinctively clutching the wound. Through the flames, he locked eyes with Qiu, whose emotionless golden pupils were as impassive as an AI's, revealing no weaknesses and accentuating Felix's disheveled state.

Felix now realized that even a diminished Omega was still an insurmountable peak.

He stood there, supremely confident, looking down on the fools daring to challenge his limits.

At this point, stalling was no longer viable. Felix couldn't afford to bet on whether Qiu would enter his estrous period during the match. His only option was to go all out for a swift resolution.

Fully focused and disregarding the agonizing pain in his shoulder, Felix channeled his psychic energy to unleash his special ability—

In an instant, a barrage of meteors rained down, each wrapped in flowing magma, trailing long flames as they descended.

The intensity was such that the fiery tails almost turned blue, and even through the thick energy barrier, the audience could feel the unbearable, parching heat.

Not to mention Qiu, who was in the same arena as Felix, unprotected from the inferno.

As a canary, his innate fear of fire and heat was practically etched into his genes. Every battle against a fire-abled Alpha or Beta, even in victory, proved more troublesome than against others with different abilities.

And now, his estrous body seemed even less tolerant than before.

Qiu bit his lip, doing his best to ignore the discomfort brought on by his natural aversion to fire.

With a casual wave of his hand, Qiu's silver whip dissolved into specks of light, reassembling into a colossal umbrella that nearly covered the entire arena, even shading a part of the nearby audience, earning their gasps of admiration.

The umbrella's handle, as wide as a man, was firmly planted near Qiu, its insertion point radiating outward in concentric circles of cracked earth.

Huge, burning meteors crashed against the metal umbrella, emitting heavy, muffled sounds. The impact shook the arena so violently that Felix nearly lost his footing.

Upon seeing Qiu summon such a massive silver umbrella, Felix knew his meteor shower posed no threat.

The next second, Qiu's golden figure rushed towards him, a flash of silver glinting in his field of vision.

By the time Felix reacted, his other shoulder bore a deep gash, blood gushing from the wound, quickly spreading across half his torso.

Just a little closer, and the cut would have been on his neck's major artery.

Felix, still shaken, hadn't caught his breath when Omega's assault loomed again.

"Damn, I can't let him get close!" Felix cursed, dodging Qiu's leg whip in a disheveled manner, mindful of his previous mistake.

Though smaller in stature among Omegas and lacking the natural strength of warrior-born Alphas, Qiu's speed and reflexes were incredibly fast. His movements were agile like a nimble wildcat, each strike lethal, swift, steady, accurate, and ruthless.

In the flurry of blows, Felix was gradually pushed to the arena's edge, one step away from being forced out.

Seeing imminent elimination, he set the entire arena ablaze and soared upwards on fiery red wings.

Qiu was left on the ground, suddenly engulfed in a sea of flames, the roaring fire rising like tidal waves, threatening to swallow him whole.

Instinctively sensing the fear of a natural enemy, the slender figure of "Little Rose" seemed almost distorted in the scorching heat. Vulnerable and unprotected against the menacing inferno, his unintentional glance at the camera appeared lost and aggrieved, evoking pity in the audience both on-site and online, who hurled curses at Felix.

"Damn that Alpha, he's too brutal!"

"Is this Alpha intentionally trying to kill the little Omega?!"

"This isn't a match; it's a crime!"

"He's a repeat offender, previously targeting players from the Dark Star Military Academy."

"Poor little Omega."

"Felix is utterly unforgivable!"

Author's note:

QiuQiu: Shivering in the sea of fire. (Pretending)

Audience: "Wuuu, poor QiuQiu, that damn Felix!"

Felix: "You didn't say that when he was hitting my teammate."

Audience: "Go to hell!"