The cheers after defeating Blazing Fire Academy crashed through every corner of the Soul Fighting Arena like a tangible wave. The shit-green uniforms that had once been mocked by countless people now seemed coated in the colors of legend beneath the spotlights. Supporting one another, the Shrek Eight Devils slowly entered the exit passage under countless stunned, admiring, and wary gazes.
Inside the passage, cut off from the outside clamor, only the team members' heavy breathing and slightly unsteady footsteps remained. Though they had won this crucial victory, every one of them was nearly at their limit. Dai Mubai had a patch of flame burns across his chest that throbbed faintly; Ma Hongjun had overdrawn his Soul Power, his face pale; Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing had scrapes in several places; Ning Rongrong and Oscar had exhausted their support-type Soul Power as well.
Xiao Xiaoxiao was in even worse condition. Forcibly maintaining the illusion to interfere with Huo Wu had placed no small burden on her Spiritual Power. Her temples throbbed violently, darkness blurred her vision in waves, and her steps were unsteady.
A steady, powerful hand promptly supported her elbow. Xiao Xiaoxiao turned her head and met Tang San's concerned gaze. He looked more tired than usual too, his bangs soaked with sweat, yet his eyes remained clear and bright.
"Can you still walk?" His voice was slightly hoarse from exertion.
"Mm, I'm fine." Xiao Xiaoxiao steadied herself with his help, then gently pulled her hand back, her face warming slightly. The other team members and teachers were still in the passage, and she did not want to seem too delicate.
Tang San did not insist. He merely slowed his pace and walked slightly ahead at her side, invisibly shielding her from most of the curious looks cast by