"Clang!"
As Xiao Tianyang and his other companions took their seats, Zhou Cheng placed his Cong Yunqie beside him. However, his arm strength was insufficient, and despite using both hands to steady it, the weapon still struck the ground with a resounding sound.
The noise instantly drew everyone's attention, causing them to flinch. At that moment, the earlier conflict between Ma Hongjun and the student was completely forgotten—all eyes were now fixed on Xiao Tianyang's group.
"The competition is about to begin. What are you doing here?"
Just then, an elderly man appeared beside the group of provocative students. The lead student opened his mouth to explain but was immediately silenced by the old man's sharp gaze. Without another word, they turned and left, their retreat so quiet it was as if they were the victims.
Meanwhile, Flender, Yu Xiaogang, and the others, having finished their preparations, returned to Tang San's side. Instead of exchanging greetings, Flender stared thoughtfully at the old man's retreating figure.
"No doubt about it—that's him," Yu Xiaogang said solemnly. "I never expected someone like him to become a teacher at an academy, let alone lead a team."
Flender gave a slight nod. "Judging by his students' uniforms, can you tell which academy they're from?"
After a brief observation, Yu Xiaogang replied, "It should be Canghui Academy."
Tang San and the others approached, and Ma Hongjun blurted out without hesitation, "Teacher, who is that old man?"
Flender shot him a warning glance. "Don't provoke him."
Yu Xiaogang quickly elaborated, "His name is Shi Nian. We encountered him during our travels across the continent. His martial soul, the 'Brutal Dream,' is a rare illusion-type that attacks the enemy's spirit directly."
Seeing that the explanation was incomplete, Flender added, "He's also vindictive and holds grudges. When we last met, he was already a level 60 Soul Emperor. By now, he's likely a Soul Saint."
The reminder had its intended effect—Ma Hongjun immediately shrank back, his earlier bravado gone.
He couldn't help but agree with Xiao Tianyang's words: "Before you grow strong, it's best not to die. No matter how great your potential is, it means nothing if you're dead."
"By the way, Dean, why is that guy participating in the competition?" Oscar raised his hand, pointing toward Xiao Tianyang.
"I only just found out myself," Flender said calmly. "Why? Are you scared?"
"Heh, as if!" Ma Hongjun puffed out his chest.
"Then why are you sweating?" Flender eyed his disciple with amusement.
Ma Hongjun wiped his forehead—it was damp. "Uh… maybe I've put on some weight lately. It's hot in here."
Flender chuckled but didn't press further. After all, no matter how powerful Xiao Tianyang was, he was still one of his students. Even if Flender had never taught him personally, the bond remained as long as Xiao Tianyang acknowledged it.
"One more thing," Yu Xiaogang interjected. "Edward is roughly your age. And the armored man you met—the one code-named 'Knight'—is the same. As for the other two, the tall one is Dashan, and the petite one is Baixue."
"Wait, they're our age?" Dai Mubai asked cautiously.
Yu Xiaogang didn't answer verbally, merely nodding.
The revelation sent a chill through everyone, including Tang San.
They had speculated before, but part of them still believed Xiao Tianyang was stronger than Edward. His ruthless efficiency and undefeated record had left a deep impression.
Edward, on the other hand, had only crossed paths with them three times—twice in the Great Soul Arena (where he effortlessly secured instant kills) and once in the Sunset Forest (where they experienced his overwhelming power firsthand). Yet, they had consoled themselves with the assumption that Edward, being Flender's friend, must be older.
But now, seeing him prepare for the competition and hearing Yu Xiaogang's confirmation, the truth hit them: "Edward is no weaker than Xiao Tianyang."
In raw strength, he might even be superior.
Of course, they had no idea Edward was Xiao Tianyang.
The only one who remained unfazed was Zhu Zhuqing—the sole person among them who knew the truth.
"Alright," Flender cut in, waving a hand. "The reason Xiaogang told you this is to remind you: there's always someone stronger. No matter how powerful your opponent is, you have only two choices—climb over them or become their stepping stone. But I believe in you. I know you'll choose the former. Now, go!"
The group exchanged glances, their initial fear replaced by unwavering determination. Even the reserve members, like Jiang Zhu, felt their fighting spirits ignite.
Soon, the staff led them to the main arena—Xiao Tianyang's group included.
Only then did Xiao Tianyang realize the extent of the Spirit Hall's investment in this tournament.
The venue, styled after ancient Roman coliseums, was breathtaking. The intricate reliefs on the stone walls and the high-quality materials used were testaments to the organizers' wealth.
During the team introductions, Xiao Tianyang's group was placed last—their academy was obscure, having never even participated in previous years. But Xiao Tianyang didn't mind.
As he had once told Tang San and the others: "The lower the expectations, the greater the impact when you shatter them."
This was a world where strength spoke loudest. Past glories meant nothing if you couldn't back them up in the present.
Newcomers might be underestimated, but the pressure weighed heaviest on the reigning champions. Stagnation meant regression.
And Xiao Tianyang loved being overlooked.
It made the moment of revelation—when he slapped the arrogance off their faces with undeniable force—all the more satisfying.
…
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