In the next moment, Xu Yi caught the transmissions rippling through the crowd and understood the crux of the matter.
It turned out that the first disciple not only had to defeat all the challengers, but also had to produce a thousand essence pills as the promotion fee.
That one requirement alone was enough to keep every probationary disciple out of the running.
And judging by the transmissions, the middle-aged man with the long beard, called Steward Liu, was clearly an examiner brought in by Chang Feng.
As soon as he arrived, he didn't even wait for everyone to gather. He summoned Steward Hu, announced the rules, and lit the incense.
The whole thing was being rushed through with such obvious bias that there was no point pretending otherwise.
"Steward Liu, I've counted the probationary disciples here. We've basically got everyone. Why not announce the start? There's no need to waste time."
Chang Feng spoke loudly, without the slightest concern for the probationary disciples below the platform.
Steward Liu was about to speak when a figure leaped onto the platform. "Hold on. How could such a grand occasion be decided without a fight? If word gets out, the outer-sect senior brothers will laugh at us probationary disciples for having no one capable of a challenge."
The figure landed. He wore a worn blue robe and had a gaunt, hard-edged face. Who else could it be but Xu Yi?
At Xu Yi's arrival, Steward Hu visibly relaxed. He hurriedly sent a voice transmission: "What took you so long? You nearly scared me to death."
Xu Yi sent a reply. Chang Feng had already stepped in front of him and was glaring coldly. "Who are you? How dare you climb onto this platform without being summoned? Get down!"
Xu Yi said, "I'm