But everyone's eyes remained fixed on Lu Mingfei.
They held shock, wariness, and a subtle resentment at having been slighted.
The Golden Crocodile Soul Master took a step forward, his golden scales gleaming in the sunlight.
His voice was not loud, but it carried clearly to everyone's ears. "Spirit Hall Academy has always had a tradition of senior students teaching newcomers a lesson. Our new classmate here is certainly strong, but we can't let the rules fall apart."
He paused and surveyed the crowd, his tone suggesting that this was only natural.
"Which of us didn't come up through those lessons? Newcomers should act like newcomers.
"You show up, stand on the sidelines watching the fun, then overpower all of us the moment you make a move. That's against the rules."
The Blazing Lion Soul Master grinned and rolled his neck, flames reigniting on his shoulders.
"Exactly, genius! Teaching geniuses a lesson is my favorite thing."
The aloof goddess said nothing.
But she slowly raised her longbow, ice-blue soul power flowing along it. Her stance spoke for itself.
Lu Mingfei watched them in silence.
The force field of Dustless Domain slowly dissipated, and the high-speed currents of air settled.
No emotion stirred in his dragon eyes, as though he were watching a farce that had nothing to do with him.
Yet another scene surfaced in his mind.
Cassel College, on that afternoon of dazzling sunlight.
Caesar stood opposite him, his long golden hair streaming in the wind.
Chu Zihang silently drew Murasame, its blade reflecting his impassive face.
And he stood between them, staring at them in fury.
Lu Mingfei still remembered what he had felt then.
Fear! Terror! Neither.
He had only wanted to avenge Nono.
Before long, Lu Mingfei's thoughts returned to the present.
Looking at the students