A viscount's fief could already be as large as a small city.
More importantly, Xue Ye had already promised the ten people before him—
that once this tournament ended,
he would grant them fiefs.
This meant they would not merely hold empty noble titles.
They would become nobles with actual territories.
Salas's expression looked rather unpleasant.
He said nothing more, but his eyes held a few more traces of gloom.
The captains and Vice-Captains of the five teams that had advanced through the Qualifying Rounds
were all elites among young spirit masters, each one sharper than the last.
From Xue Ye's promise and Salas's attempt to stop him,
they could vaguely sense the tension in the air.
Ning Fengzhi merely stood to the side, smiling without a word.
It was as though none of this had anything to do with him.
Xue Ye seemed not to notice Platinum Bishop Salas's ugly expression at all.
He continued with a smile,
"The upcoming Qualifying Rounds will still be held within the Empire."
"However, the venue will change from the Heaven Dou Great Spirit Dueling Arena to the Royal Hunting Grounds."
"At that time, the ten teams that advance through the Qualifying Rounds from the five duchies and kingdoms will come to compete against you in the Qualifying Rounds."
"I hope that all five of your academies will achieve outstanding results in the Qualifying Rounds."
"That way, you will gain the upper hand when you participate in the Grand Finals."
"The Qualifying Rounds are the best stage for demonstrating your individual strength."
"At that time, the Empire will provide the three students with the most victories in the Qualifying Rounds with the spirit beasts they need for their next rank advancement."
"You may choose the type of spirit beast yourselves."
"For spirit beasts