Treasure-hunting: Into the Unknown

Hearing this, Linda squinted suspiciously at Zachary. She couldn't help but think of how odd the whole thing was. What did Crane College's leaders want from Zachary? They were being so generous and she was certain they had hidden motives for such generosity.

Zachary appeared to be the only one to remain calm. He was already aware of why the senior leaders of the college were treating him so well. They anticipated outstanding achievements in his future. In anticipation of that, they decided to curry his favor now, by sending him special gifts. That way, they would be able to come to Zachary if they ever needed help. Though he was well aware of their sinister plans, Zachary did not refuse the gift. Frankly, he quite liked it. As for the future, he would know what to do when the time came. Besides, if they wanted to give him gifts, then he might as well make use of it until he reached the top three on that list. Surely the gifts would get better the higher he ranked.

That would be what Zachary wanted more than anything right now. But he could wait. Zachary put the box away, cupped his hands and said respectfully, "Barnes, thank you so much for bringing me this gift. I would appreciate it if you convey my respect and gratitude to the senior leaders for me. I promise that I will not let them down."

Barnes simply snorted disdainfully before he left with his men.

As soon as he left, the Imperial Level warriors who had walked out of the Imperial Coliseum glanced at Zachary before going back inside.

"This is an Imperial Level treasure beast at the second grade. This is awesome. Does that mean one of your treasure beasts will be able to increase its strength by two grades? This is an exceptional gift this time around," Vivian commented dotingly, her eyes glued to him.

"Well, perhaps," Zachary answered indifferently. He did not want to show off so that others wouldn't be envious.

All four girls, including Linda, gave Zachary a sour look because they knew he was hiding his glee.

"Let's go inside," Linda said.

Together they entered the Imperial Coliseum under the watchful eyes of the other disciples.

As soon as they set foot inside the Imperial Coliseum, Zachary saw a large enclosed area covered in an iron net. It resembled an enormous cage. There were many obstacles to imitate a real terrain w

y. I won't fall in love with a woman like you either." Zachary smiled in response.

For some reason, his words made Linda even angrier. She glared at him and turned her head away, refusing to talk with him now.

While the two were bickering, a staff member came up to Zachary and asked, "Are you Harley by any chance?"

"Yes, I am," Zachary replied and nodded at once.

"Nice to meet you, Harley. I received a message from Lind who ranks at forty-eight. He would like to challenge you. Do you accept the challenge?" the member of the staff asked.

"Well..." Zachary hesitated for a moment. The Demonic Emperor Beast hadn't finished its cultivation yet. He wasn't sure he would be able to keep up with only the Blazing Roc and the Thunder Dragon Horse. Although he still had two other beast souls he hadn't used yet, he didn't want to bring them out so soon to help either the Blazing Roc or the Thunder Dragon Horse if he made them fight.

"You can refuse to accept the challenge. But, as punishment, some of your points will be deducted and given to your opponent," Linda explained immediately when she noticed Zachary's hesitation.

"Well, in that case, I think it would be better to accept the challenge. Even if I lose, I won't lose any points," Zachary responded with a frown at Linda's words.

"That's okay. If you don't intend to improve your rank, you can accept challenges just to familiarize yourself with the Imperial Coliseum. If you make good use of it, the outcome will help you a great deal," Linda replied and nodded in agreement.