Chapter 73: Famous

Translator: Tim Editor: Tehrn

A Ning Hai University student exclaimed, “Shi Ying looks like someone from my school! How is that possible?” He noticed Shi Ying's resemblance to Ye Mo but hesitated to believe it. Everyone at Ning Hai University knew Ye Mo; how could he be Shi Ying?

“Pfft, keep dreaming. Li Bangqi, the strongest in your school, already lost.”

The first student agreed, thinking it was just a case of mistaken identity, and said nothing more.

…

“Master Shi, I can’t believe how strong you are! Inviting you was the right decision. This is unbelievable!” Chen Weilin, overwhelmed with excitement, trailed off. Shi Ying was far stronger than Fang Weicheng had described, completely outclassing the arrogant Pu Dongheng.

While Fang Weicheng had expected Ye Mo to win, he hadn't anticipated such a decisive victory.

A tall girl ran in, her eyes shining with hope, but maintaining her composure, she said to Chen Weilin, “President, some journalists want to interview Brother Shi Ying.”

Chen Weilin also wanted the publicity, but he sought Ye Mo's permission.

Ye Mo waved off the request. “No interview. Arrange my next fight—the ‘Club Master.’ I haven’t much time.”

“Right away, of course! Yu Yaxin, send the journalists away. Tell them Master Shi Ying needs to rest.” Chen Weilin’s departure was noticeably lighter-footed than his arrival.

Once Chen Weilin left, Yu Yaxin shyly approached Ye Mo with a notebook and pen. “Brother Shi, could I get your autograph?” she whispered.

Ye Mo smiled and agreed. He started to write, then paused, realizing his ingrained habit. He’d begun with ‘Ye,’ but quickly corrected it to “Shi Ying.”

Yu Yaxin, blushing, thanked him and hurried off. She still had to turn away the journalists, her heart pounding. The thought of her dorm mates’ reactions brought a smile to her lips.

A female journalist was astonished by Ye Mo's refusal. “Why won't Mr. Shi be interviewed?” she exclaimed. Ning Hai media all craved fame; he was throwing away a golden opportunity.

Yu Yaxin, sensing the journalist’s displeasure, explained, “Master Shi might have another match. Ask President Chen later; I can’t decide.”

“Fine. I’ll speak to your vice president, and if that fails, I’ll go straight to the president of the Ning Hai Martial Arts Association!” The journalist’s tone was sharp, irritated by Ning Hai Technology University’s dismissive attitude.

While Ye Mo waited impatiently, Chen Weilin burst in, brimming with excitement.

“How did it go?” Fang Weicheng, who’d been with Ye Mo, asked, aware of his friend’s limited time.

“The Hans surrendered! The Han Style Taekwondo Club is disbanding and forfeiting their title tomorrow!” Chen Weilin declared triumphantly.

Fang Weicheng frowned. “How? Their club master is incredibly strong—much stronger than Pu Dongheng. This doesn’t make sense.”

Chen Weilin explained, “They surrendered formally, even signing a document. Their club master examined Pu Dongheng’s injuries, reviewed the fight recording, and immediately conceded. He said it was temporary, though—a rematch in a year.”

Ye Mo frowned. He lacked the time for a rematch, but he couldn’t fight them again today.

Seeing Ye Mo’s expression, Chen Weilin added, “I didn’t agree, but he said it wasn’t necessary. He’ll be here in a year. If Master Shi Ying doesn't show, he won’t blame you. He said your absence would speak volumes.”

“They lost and are still so arrogant! Shameless!” Fang Weicheng fumed.

Ye Mo dismissed the matter. “We’ll address this in a year. I’m leaving now.” He rose and headed for the door.

Seeing Ye Mo depart, Chen Weilin hastily offered, “Master Shi Ying, it’s a celebratory occasion. Let me treat you to dinner at the Ru Wei Tower. A few journalists are waiting outside.”

Ye Mo declined. “No need. I have other things to do. I’ll leave through the window to avoid the journalists.” He didn't wait for a response, opening the window and leaping out.

“Wait! That’s the third floor!” Chen Weilin’s protest was cut short as Ye Mo vanished.

Chen Weilin and Fang Weicheng rushed to the window, but Ye Mo was gone.

The scene erupted in celebration. Champagne and beer flowed, joyous shouts filled the room, all because the Hans, undefeated for a month, had finally been defeated. Taking what’s yours is one thing; forcing an admission of defeat is another.

News of Shi Ying’s victory spread rapidly throughout the university and beyond. The name of the great Master Shi Ying was on everyone’s lips.

Those who witnessed the Ye Mo/Pu Dongheng fight were jubilant; the journalists who waited in vain were dejected.

And then there was the last group: the morose. They were the ones who left early, missing the final victory. Their regret was profound, like Chinese soccer fans who left a World Cup final (China vs. Spain) at 0-4 only to learn later that China scored five unanswered goals in extra time to win 5-4. How devastating to miss that!

…

It was 11 PM. Ye Mo quickly left Ning Hai Technology University, heading to see Ning Qingxue, assuming she was asleep.