The preliminaries were tightly scheduled. After a day of rest, Shrek Academy faced its strongest opponent since the competition began—Blazing Fire Academy.
Blazing Fire Academy, one of the Five Element Academies, was famed for its wild, domineering fire-attribute attacks. Their captain, Huo Wu, possessed the Fire Shadow martial soul. Her temperament was as fiery as her spirit, and her strength was formidable. She was one of the most closely watched star contestants of this tournament. Her brother, Huo Wushuang, possessed the Fire Crane martial soul and was likewise a master of the Assault System. The entire team was exceptionally aggressive, like a moving inferno that reduced everything in its path to ruin.
This clash was undoubtedly one of the focal battles of the preliminary stage. Heaven Dou Great Spirit Arena had been packed full by enthusiastic spectators long before the match began, and the atmosphere was more fervent than in any previous bout. Cheers supporting Blazing Fire Academy were deafening. On Shrek Academy's side, though a few still mocked their shit-green uniforms, far more people were curious and expectant—could this dark horse withstand Blazing Fire Academy's raging flames?
The atmosphere in the waiting area was grave. Master gave them one final reminder of the tactical essentials.
"Blazing Fire Academy puts offense above all else. Their defense is comparatively weak, but the intensity of their attacks is enough to cover that weakness. Huo Wu is their absolute core. Her third soul skill, Blazing Sun Dance, has a wide range and tremendous power. She must be restrained first. Huo Wushuang has a clear advantage in the air. Ma Hongjun, your task is to interfere with him as much as possible and keep him from attacking freely."
"Mubai, you'll be under immense pressure head-on. Zhu Qing and Xiao Wu, use your speed to