"Don't worry, there's more." The short boy continued reading. "The finals will use a knockout format. Winners advance until the ultimate champion is decided. The rules for each match will be announced beforehand, to test the students' all-around abilities."
Low murmurs rippled through the crowd.
"These rules seem pretty fair. They show both teamwork and individual strength. What a pity, though—our team is too average. Whether we can even make the finals is still a question." The short boy sighed.
"At least we have a chance to try! The prize money and Soul Bone are so tempting. How could we be willing to accept it if we don't give it everything we've got?" The tall boy clenched his fists, his eyes filled with fighting spirit.
Just then, a crisp female voice came from behind them.
"You two are backing down this early? That's not how students should act."
The two turned around and saw a girl in the academy uniform smiling at them. She had delicate features and an elegant bearing, while her lively eyes carried a hint of teasing.
"Xue'er! What are you doing here?" The tall boy blushed, clearly rather fond of the girl.
"What, I can't come take a look? I heard you formed a team too and are planning to enter the competition?" Xue'er smiled faintly, her tone slightly teasing.
"Yeah. Our strength may be average, but we can't just refuse to try at all." The short boy scratched his head sheepishly.
"Then do your best. But you should be careful—I heard several upper-year teams are determined to win this year. They've invested heavily in preparing for the competition." Xue'er lightly tossed her long hair as she spoke in a relaxed tone.
"Hmph, so what if they're upper-years? Even if they're strong, that doesn't mean we'll