The most dazzling existence

The square buzzed with energy despite the silence that had momentarily fallen upon Wang Yi's appearance. His black hair swayed slightly as the faint ripple of teleportation energy dissipated. The gazes of millions bore down on him, some filled with admiration, others with jealousy, and still others with a burning desire to catch up to him someday.

Wang Yi stood unfazed, his dark eyes scanning the crowd with an aura of indifference. To the young prodigies gathered, he had become a living legend. Yet, to him, they were no different than the blood-mammoths he had slain—a mere obstacle to his ultimate goal.

Bolan, the infamous Death God, lingered for a moment longer. His sharp, pale face betrayed no emotion, yet deep within his mind, the realization dawned: Wang Yi was a rival unlike any other. He finally turned and walked away, his figure disappearing into the crowd. His retreat left a lasting impression; Bolan had acknowledged the black-haired youth as a worthy adversary, a sentiment he rarely bestowed upon anyone.

Whispers Across the Square

As Bolan departed, the square once again erupted into lively discussions.

"Did you see that? Even Bolan acknowledged Wang Yi!" one genius whispered to his companion.

"Bolan is formidable, but Wang Yi… he's different. It's not just his strength but his composure. It's as though he doesn't even see us as competition."

"He probably doesn't," another muttered bitterly, clenching his fists. "He and Bolan are leagues beyond us. How are we supposed to compete with that?"

Among the crowd, a few geniuses stared in silent envy, their pride wounded by the realization of their inferiority. These were individuals who had always been the best among their peers, geniuses heralded as the pride of their respective galaxies. Now, they were reduced to spectators, watching someone else claim the glory they had once believed was theirs.

Celebration of a Champion

News of Wang Yi's achievement spread like wildfire across the universe. In the Dry Witch Universe Country, the atmosphere was electric. Celebrations broke out in major cities, and Wang Yi's name echoed in every corner of the Black Dragon Mountain Empire. Streets were adorned with banners bearing his image, and people gathered in massive crowds to watch holographic replays of his trial on gigantic screens.

For centuries, the Dry Witch Kingdom had struggled to produce top-tier geniuses capable of contending with the best in the universe. This year, they not only had one but three prodigies in the top twenty, with Wang Yi leading the charge. It was a moment of unparalleled pride for the kingdom.

In homes, cafes, and public squares, people discussed Wang Yi's legendary performance.

"Did you hear? He passed the seventh trial tower's first floor! Even Bolan couldn't do that!" an excited young man exclaimed to his friends.

"It's incredible. He's just a Stellar-level warrior! Imagine what he'll accomplish when he reaches the domain or universe level!" another replied.

Meanwhile, holograms displayed Wang Yi's feats in great detail, replaying the moment he unleashed the Yan Shen Armament in its third stage. The devastating red energy, the swirling blade trajectories, and the chaotic battlefield of blood-mammoths became a symbol of triumph.

A Storm Among the Immortals

In the upper echelons of power, discussions about Wang Yi were even more intense. The immortals who had witnessed his performance were impressed by his potential.

"Did you see the precision of his Yan Shen Armament? Controlling 729 blades simultaneously at the stellar level is unheard of," an elder immortal remarked.

"And his Yan Shen Armament," another added. "The third level of 'Ten Thousand Streams'? That's mastery beyond his years. He might even surpass Bolan in direct combat."

The giant in scale armor, known as Thirteen, accepted their congratulations with a restrained smile, though it was evident he was proud of Wang Yi. "The path of a genius is long," he said humbly. "Let us not forget that the genius battle is far from over."

Despite his humility, the immortals teased him good-naturedly. "Oh, come now, Thirteen. You're practically glowing with pride."

The Rivalry Deepens

While the universe celebrated Wang Yi, Bolan secluded himself in silent meditation. In his private chamber, the Death God reflected on Wang Yi's rise. "Wang Yi," he muttered, his voice low and cold. "You've taken the first place for now, but this battle isn't over. I'll show you that the Death God does not fall behind."

As for Wang Yi, he was far from complacent. After the trial, he returned to his quarters and immediately began reviewing the battle footage. Every movement, every attack, every decision he had made during the trial was scrutinized. To him, perfection was not an option—it was a necessity.

"I've only just begun," Wang Yi murmured to himself, his eyes gleaming with determination. "Bolan, Luo Feng, the rest of you… none of you can stop me."

Preparations for the Final Battle

The Genius Battle was entering its final phase. The remaining participants would soon face off in head-to-head combat, a true test of their skills, strategies, and adaptability. Wang Yi, Bolan, and Luo Feng were the favorites, with the universe eagerly awaiting their showdown.

In the days leading up to the battles, Wang Yi trained relentlessly. In a secluded training room within the Virtual Universe Company, he pushed his body and mind to their limits. His spiritual energy manipulation grew sharper, his blade techniques more refined, and his understanding of universal laws deeper.

Elsewhere, Luo Feng trained with equal fervor. The fiery determination in his eyes reflected his resolve to prove himself. "Wang Yi, Bolan," he muttered. "I won't let you overshadow me."

The First Battle

The day of the final battles arrived. Millions gathered in virtual arenas, their avatars filling the stands as they eagerly awaited the spectacle. The first duel was announced: Wang Yi versus a prodigy from the Thunder Empire, ranked seventh overall.

The arena was vast and desolate, with rocky terrain and swirling energy storms. As Wang Yi stepped into the battlefield, his opponent smirked confidently. "Your fame precedes you, Wang Yi, but today, I'll show the universe that you're not invincible."

Wang Yi didn't respond. He simply drew his sabers, the air around him crackling with suppressed energy.