Hudson had left, but the Arcane Academy erupted into an uproar. No matter how illustrious their backgrounds, every student's first reaction upon hearing the news was—impossible!
The Arcane Academy had many sponsors. Wealthy nobles throughout the kingdom had all provided support, but no one had ever been extravagant enough to throw down a million gold coins at once.
"Who spread this news? Daring to fabricate rumors about Marshal Hudson—are they tired of living?" Norman said irritably.
As the descendant of a great noble house, he knew far more than ordinary students.
To ordinary people, rumors were merely rumors. But to great nobles, family honor outweighed life itself. If the matter blew up, then for the sake of face, even a false rumor could only become true.
The academy's upper ranks had just offended Marshal Hudson a few days ago. If they pulled something like this again, people would die! Being forced to cough up potions worth a million gold coins was more than any normal person could endure, let alone a kingdom marshal holding immense power.
Even extortionists would not dare be this ruthless!
"Cousin, you're overthinking it. This was an announcement issued by the academy. How could it be a rumor?
"According to the announcement, not only would we be participating in this skill competition, but students from the Magic Academy would join as well.
"The assessment is very simple. Everyone has to produce a set number of Magic Crystal Cards. Whoever makes cards of better quality and at greater speed wins.
"The top twenty students will split these hundred magic potions. The higher the ranking, the greater the reward. We should hurry up and get moving. If we're late, all the laboratories will be taken, and it'll be hard even to find a place to practice!" Karim urged.