The Strongest Student of the Weakest Academy - Chapter 25: The Academy’s Competition (VII)

Deep below the earth's surface, a mystifying subterranean seascape lurks, an archipelago bathed in inky blackness where suspense and horror hold court. Here lie strange islands and even stranger monsters, far beyond the realms of human imagination. In this domain, mankind is far from dominant; instead, madness and death rule supreme.

Pleading for mercy from the unknown creatures of the deep only leads to a slow, tortured existence. The trapped survivors gradually distort, losing what made them human, both physically and mentally, to the gloom as they remain trapped in this eternal obscurity. Their only hope? A perilous expedition into uncharted sea territories.

Fueled by determination, Charles embark on this daunting voyage aboard his steamship, aiming to reclaim humanity's past glory. Together with his crew, they sought a way out of this hidden sea world, a path back to the sunlit world above, where humans once stood tall.

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I read a few comments from Chinese readers that compared this novel with Lord of Mysteries because of similar elements: Lovecraftian, western fantasy, first industrial revolution, and steampunk. However, I have yet to finish reading Lord of Mysteries to do any actual comparison, but I do think those who have enjoyed that novel would enjoy this as well. Also, the author of LotM, Cuttlefish That Loves Diving, also did a shout-out for this novel, so I guess he approves of it too?

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Abandoned since childhood, the male protagonist lived a quiet, unremarkable life, until the day he awakened a strange and powerful ability: he could hear the inner voices of women.With this gift, he could understand their true thoughts, hidden desires, and deepest fears.Suddenly, everything changed. From a social outcast to an irresistible enigma, he began to navigate a world of secrets and seduction. His main goal? To earn the approval of the cold and powerful president’s. But along the way, hearts began to fall, first the alluring president, then the charming teacher’s aunt, followed by the seductive supervisor’s sister…With each connection, his influence grew. But with every new woman drawn to him, so too did the dangers of jealousy, secrets, and emotional entanglements.Who will be the next one? ...

Pausing time, turning back time, reversing times of specific objects/person, and even predicting the future…

Taking advantage now that Su Lin has control of time within his grasp. Being able to stop time; can dodge incoming attack and avoid mishaps, Su Lin is steered clear of harm’s way. Reversing time; can forever never regret, no need to overthink when acting. Inverting time of specific object/person; can repair any object and heal any person, Su Lin becomes a miracle doctor. Predicting the future; can hide from natural disasters, can buy the winning lottery tickets and stocks, listening to Su Lin is always right.

- Description from Novelupdates

Condition 1: One yellow scarf soldier rune is satisfied

Condition 2: Kill 100 rune monsters independently

Condition 3: 5,000 times of training to kill a pig with a knife is satisfied

Condition 4: 10 Spirit Talisman Pills are satisfied

Rune unlock upgrade.

Your source runes have been promoted from ordinary quality [Yellow Turban Soldiers] to premium quality [Yellow Turban Warriors]!

- Description from novelbuddy