After leaving Elder Huo's residence, Xiao Ming headed to the Administrative Building.
He found Instructor Ge Hu in his office.
Xiao Ming told him he had returned.
Ge Hu was delighted to see Xiao Ming safe and sound. He urged him to rest well and prepare for the next day's Inner Academy Selection Competition.
Xiao Ming nodded repeatedly.
By the time they finished chatting, the morning had passed.
The next day.
After washing up, Xiao Ming left his residence for the Inner Academy Selection Competition.
Along the way, he saw crowds of young men and women in Jia Nan Academy Uniforms heading in the same direction. Excitement shone on every face.
They were clearly looking forward to the annual Inner Academy Selection Competition.
The first-year students were especially excited.
It was their first chance to watch the competition. They could not take part, but they could still learn something and see the talents who had come from all over. Their anticipation was written all over their faces.
"Cousin Xiao Ming!"
As Xiao Ming walked, he heard a hearty shout. He turned slightly and saw a broad-shouldered, thick-waisted fellow waving at him with a grin from a short distance away.
It was Xiao Shan, the Xiao Family member who had come to Jia Nan Academy with him.
The other students heard the shout too and began looking around.
"Xiao Ming? The Xiao Ming who's Jia Nan Academy's top genius?"
"Who else? I heard Senior Xiao Ming has only been here two years, but his cultivation has already surpassed that of many older students. He's even reached Grade Three in alchemy!"
"Senior Xiao Ming is one of the favorites to win this year's Inner Academy Selection Competition!"
"Where is he? I've never seen him. Let me see what he looks like!"