After the battles for fifth through eighth place ended, the matches to determine the top four finally began.
Zhu Xiyan's first opponent was Song Jingchen.
However, the first to take the stage were Tao Kecheng and Zhou Ying, both students at Huaxia Cultivation University.
Whether they had discussed it beforehand or simply shared an unspoken understanding, the two put on a rather exciting "match" for the audience—or perhaps "sparring session" would be more accurate.
Anyone with a discerning eye could tell that Tao Kecheng wasn't fighting at full strength.
In the end, Zhou Ying naturally lost.
As Tao Kecheng and Zhou Ying left the arena, Zhu Xiyan and Song Jingchen took the stage one after the other.
Looking at Zhu Xiyan across from him, Song Jingchen curled his lips slightly and said, "Before the tournament, a lot of people online said you were the biggest favorite to win. Some people at your school even bragged that the moment you entered, the championship was already a foregone conclusion and yours for the taking."
"Some even went so far as to say that your strength rivaled that of a Golden Core Stage Great Grandmaster. But I don't believe any of that nonsense."
"I have more faith in myself. The only person who can win this tournament is me, Song Jingchen! It won't be anyone else!"
"Whether it's you or those two from Huaxia Cultivation University, no one can take the championship from me."
"But since the people at your school have been talking you up so much, I'll show you the respect you deserve and fight you with all my strength!"
"I won't hold back like I did before!"
Looking at Song Jingchen's arrogant expression, Zhu Xiyan shook her head and said coolly, "Confidence is a good thing, but blind confidence is