Although Xuan Zi had said that the eliminated core disciples could leave, no one took the initiative to do so. Those core disciples who had been eliminated without even having the chance to display their strength were especially indignant. They all stared at Xuan Zi in silence, clearly demanding an explanation.
Xuan Zi snorted, took a bite of the chicken leg in his hand, and said, "Not convinced? If you have any grievances in the future, I hope you'll show them through your strength. Do you think this kind of free-for-all selection method is unfair, that many of you didn't get to use your abilities before losing for no apparent reason?"
Looking at the silent core disciples, Xuan Zi curled his lips. "This free-for-all was aimed at every one of you. If this were a battlefield, could you decide the number of enemies or the situation you were about to face? You couldn't. At the very least, this battle put all of you at the same starting point, rather than in a desperate situation. This seemingly unfair melee was actually the best way to test your overall abilities. In that brief battle, I saw your ability to cooperate, your individual strength, and even your character. And without a doubt, the conclusion I reached was that most of you were unqualified."
Before he could finish, an older core disciple spoke up indignantly. Pointing at Dai Yunze, who was standing silently nearby, he said, "What about him? I didn't notice him at all during the earlier battle. Did he show any strength? And didn't you say that only seven people would be selected in the end? What's with this extra person? Why wasn't he eliminated?"
Xuan Zi glanced at him. Though he did nothing, a sharp aura still radiated from him, making