Lin Xiuyan gave a slight squeeze and laughed heartily. "I'd long heard of Junior Xiao Yao's name. Now that I've met you, you truly are extraordinary. A Seventh-Grade Alchemist—throughout the entire Jia Ma Empire and Black-Corner Region, you are the only one to have reached this level."
Xiao Yao replied modestly, "Senior Lin flatters me. Your strength as second on the Strong Ranking is what is truly admirable."
Yan Hao also stepped forward at this moment, his smile carrying a touch of boldness. "Junior Xiao Yao, I've heard much about you. I'm Yan Hao. When we get the chance, we must have a proper spar."
Xiao Yao looked at Yan Hao and nodded. "Senior Yan is joking. If there is an opportunity, I will certainly seek guidance from both seniors."
When the surrounding contestants saw Han Yue, Lin Xiuyan, and the others chatting so warmly with Xiao Yao, they were all greatly astonished. Then, recalling the rumors about Xiao Yao, they figured they must have been true. Otherwise, why would Han Yue, Lin Xiuyan, and the others take the initiative to get acquainted with him?
Xiao Yao seemed to sense that the platform had grown somewhat quieter. He immediately turned his head with a faint awareness, and when his gaze swept over the large group entering, his eyes narrowed slightly as understanding dawned on him.
The group walked directly onto the platform. Everyone along the way sensibly moved aside. At the front of the crowd was a simply dressed man with a burly build. His thick, heavy brows rose like swords, while his stern, resolute face carried a sharp and domineering aura even without anger.
Following Xiao Yao's gaze, Lin Xiuyan saw that it was Tyrant Spear Liu Qing. He patted Xiao Yao on the shoulder and explained with a