The next day.
The vast training grounds looked much emptier at the center.
The stands all around, however, were nearly packed.
Ninety-nine percent of the Bright Force candidates had withdrawn. Only a few overconfident souls remained, hoping to challenge someone above their level.
As for the Dark Force disciples, after the first round yesterday, many realized they had no hope of passing and chose to withdraw as well.
After all, there were no "rules" in the second-round arena matches. People had even died in the past.
There was no need to take the risk if they had no chance of passing.
But not everyone felt that way. Many still valued this opportunity and wanted to use it to improve their combat experience.
Besides, if they were lucky enough to face weak opponents for several rounds in a row, they might actually earn a place.
Some people had complained that the competition format was unfair and called for changes.
But the reply they received was that "luck" was also part of the test.
Many suspected the Central Dragon Court wanted to select people capable of bolstering the "fortunes of the nation."
But without an official explanation, it remained nothing more than speculation.
As the sun climbed higher, several minor officials dressed in official robes came out carrying wooden buckets.
The buckets were pitch-black from top to bottom, sealed so tightly that no light could get through.
When they shook, the bamboo slips inside rattled.
This was how the second round's matches would be decided: drawing lots!
The chief examiner rose to his feet and spoke in a clear, ringing voice:
"Candidates, come forward in order and draw a bamboo slip. Each slip bears a number. Those who draw the same number will face each other."
Li Chuan was somewhere in the