control

Thesaurus City, in the outer area.

"Oh... I'm completely worn out."

Extending my arms and legs, I disembarked from the bus in a positive state of mind.

I glanced at my classmates but...

"As anticipated. They still possess that irritating glare." I sneered.

It appears that I alone managed to get more restful sleep on this journey.

'Well, regardless, it's of no consequence. I should concentrate on my objectives, rather than squabble with those detestable individuals.'

Nodding in agreement, I shifted my gaze in another direction.

I surveyed the vicinity I was in and indeed, this city was abundant in resources and a populace.

There are also numerous edifices in this outer region of the city. They come in various architectural styles.

Some resembled pyramids, others resembled towers, and even some were dome-shaped structures.

A few were even constructed entirely of glass and took the form of a tornado.

The streets and roads of the city were adorned with numerous trees and plants, creating an ambience of perfect and lush nature.

In simpler terms, this city was exquisite...

After a while, I overheard Olivia saying,

"Everyone, form a line and enter the hotel."

Hearing her, I glanced at the hotel, But...

"Oh my, this hotel is colossal!" I exclaimed.

'This should surpass the quality of the 5-star hotels from my previous life.' I couldn't help but exclaim.

...

Within the hotel.

"We all arrived in the treasure city so that you students can expand your horizons. Naturally, it may also be an opportunity for some..."

A bald man with a muscular physique spoke with a resounding and clear voice. Even the atmosphere seemed to vibrate, yet curiously it had no effect on any of the students.

'So, this is the manifestation of power control?'

I pondered internally.

You should be aware that I recently acquired knowledge of Body control with the assistance of the system.

However, upon delving into that knowledge, I was astonished.

Merely having complete control over one's body can extricate you from countless life-threatening situations.

For instance, you can halt your heart from beating for a few minutes to hours. Yet you can maintain blood flow throughout your body without the aid of the heart. You can even manipulate your organs, nerves, and bones by a few inches through the application of this technique.

It can even aid in sealing severe injuries forcefully, ensuring your survival.

And most importantly, if one can master their own body flawlessly, then they can manipulate it at the atomic level.

And all that is required is sheer determination.

And obviously, I haven't reached that level yet.

...

Following a lengthy speech, the bald man concluded his address and instructed everyone to proceed to their designated dormitories. They were then granted freedom until evening.

This evening marks the entry of all individuals into the inner precincts of Thesaurus City.

It is also the most heavily guarded location within the city, housing all of its valuable treasures.

For me, this will serve as the setting for my inaugural life-or-death battle, scheduled for tonight.

Yes, it's not that I lack fear. On the contrary, I am truly afraid.

Yet, at the same time, there is an anticipation within me that I have never experienced in my previous existence.

'A sensation of longing to engage in battle until my heart is content.'

A genuine smile appeared on my face.

Sitting on the bed in a meditative position, I contemplated all the forthcoming events.

With a calm mind, I focused on maintaining my body and energy at its peak state.

...

In a room situated above the ground floor, Kai resided. A young man with hair as radiant as gold and eyes as deep and blue as the sea sat on the bed, deeply immersed in meditation.

"Why is this azure tome restless today? It has never happened before," Azul murmured with closed eyes.

Concentrating profoundly on his thoughts, he delved into his subconscious.

In a world of intense purple, a sapphire book enveloped in chains floated at the centre, quivering in restlessness.

An illusionary figure materialized within this realm.

"Why does it remain unsettled?" Azul muttered.

And indeed, this is Azul's consciousness, and the azure book with its chains is his secret cheat!

"Why are you so restless today?" Azul inquired.

Instead of receiving an answer, the book trembled, and a beam of light entered Azul's mind.

"Ah..."

Azul retreated a few paces, clutching his head in agony. As time passed, his pain grew more intense. However, a hazy picture also materialized within his thoughts.

Noticing this, Azul focused his mind, attempting to discern the nature of the image.

Yet, as soon as he beheld the object within the picture, he promptly opened his eyes to the tangible world.

Sweat and astonishment adorned his countenance.

After inhaling deeply, he eventually regained his composure.

Subsequently, he reflected on what he had witnessed.

And all that unfolded before him was a grand and exquisite gilded lance, commanding and formidable, wielded by an individual with lengthy golden hair emanating the sun's radiance, piercing through the heavens and leaving a lengthy rupture in the sky.

Honestly, even Azul couldn't help but admire such might.

However, what perplexed him was the reason why the book presented him with this vision.

"Well, regardless, I am clueless about the current situation. So instead of squandering my energy on contemplation, I should focus on honing my skills. Strength will provide the answers to my inquiries."

With this thought in mind, he composed himself, closed his eyes, and once again delved into meditation.