Thunder Strikes the Ground

On the ninth day of the Promotion Tournament, Shrek Academy faced Thunder Academy.

The moment both teams' names were announced, murmurs rose from the spectators. Among the Five Elements Academy teams, Thunder Academy had always had a formidable reputation. Its lightning-attribute Soul Masters might not attack as fiercely as Blazing Fire Academy or match the speed of Godwind Academy, but lightning brought paralysis with it. Take just one hit, and the pace of the fight often slipped out of your hands.

Bai Jin sat on the railing with a bag of freshly roasted chestnuts. After listening to the Referee's introduction, he remarked, "Pretty good for roasting things."

Xiao Wu turned and glared at him. "We'll roast you first in a minute."

"They'll have to get in line." Bai Jin shook the paper bag. "Plenty of people want a crack at Thunder."

In the first half of the match, both sides changed fighters quickly.

Jing Ling took down one Thunder Academy member, and Huang Yuan forced out another before a lightning spear left half his body numb. When Xiao Wu's turn came, Thunder Academy had three fighters left. The one on the stage was Lei Tian, whose Martial Soul was the Thunder Eagle.

Wings spread behind Lei Tian, lightning flickering between his feathers. He had clearly studied Xiao Wu. As soon as the Referee stepped back, he took to the air, denying her any chance to get close.

"See that?" Grandmaster said quietly. "They'll keep their distance."

Tang San nodded, his gaze settling on Lei Tian's shoulder.

Xiao Wu was watching it too.

The night before, Bai Jin had taught her just one thing.

Watch the person, not the lightning.

Lightning was too fast for the eye to follow. Before a Soul Master attacked, his shoulders, waist, or gaze had to