Graduation Grand Tournament, Stars Shine Bright (II)

The highlight of the first day was the Personal Strength Assessment, held that afternoon across several standard arenas at the academy. All graduating students drew lots to determine their opponents and competed in one-on-one elimination matches. The rules were simple: falling from the arena, voluntarily conceding defeat, or losing the ability to fight meant failure. Support-type Soul Masters, however, had special rules. They could choose a teammate of similar Soul Power Level to participate in an "exhibition" battle, with veteran judges assigning comprehensive scores based on their support effects, influence over the battle, and ingenuity in using their skills.

Once the draw results were announced, some rejoiced while others worried. Everyone hoped to avoid those two Soul Emperors, as well as several top-tier Soul Kings.

On Arena Three, Li Xuanqing's first opponent was a level forty-nine defense-type Battle Soul Ancestor. Fully aware of the enormous gap between them, his opponent activated every defensive soul skill from the outset, wrapping himself tightly in a thick earthen-yellow glow.

"Please advise me!" the Soul Ancestor shouted, attempting to defend while seeking a slim chance to counterattack.

Li Xuanqing's expression did not change. He did not even summon his martial soul. He merely held two fingers together like a sword and casually pointed forward.

"Azure Flame Finger."

A thread of intensely condensed azure fire shot forth, silently piercing the seemingly sturdy earthen-yellow barrier and striking his opponent's chest armor with perfect precision.

With a soft "Sizzle—," the Soul Ancestor felt a scorching yet gentle force enter his body, instantly locking down part of his Soul Power circulation. He staggered back seven or eight steps and landed on his rear at the edge of the arena, his defensive soul skills collapsing along with him.

He froze for a moment, then gave a bitter smile and