Ma Xiaotao and the other three turned to look at Wang Dong in disbelief, their gazes also sweeping over the crowd.
After checking again and again, the four could not help swallowing hard. Gu Qingnian really had not come!
Ma Xiaotao frowned. "That's not right. He was still there when we set off."
Huo Yuhao and the others broke out in cold sweats as well. Wang Dong spoke again:
"After we entered, he just disappeared for no apparent reason."
Everyone fell silent.
Just then, the tournament host's voice rang out. "First, let us welcome the team from Tianling Advanced Soul Master Academy to the stage!"
A team of young contestants with bitter expressions emerged from near the back of the contestants' area. As they walked out, even their footsteps seemed unsteady.
The others noticed them too, but no one said anything. Instead, their eyes kept sweeping their surroundings, searching for any sign of Gu Qingnian.
Wang Yan hurriedly whispered, "It's fine. Don't panic. Qingnian will show up soon. Once you're onstage, all of you are to follow his lead."
Only then did everyone relax slightly and nod together.
"Excellent! The contestants from Tianling Advanced Soul Master Academy have taken the stage. Now, with every eye upon us, let us welcome the representative team of the Continent's First Academy, the true king among academies-Shrek Academy!"
The host's soaring voice pierced the clouds. Star Luo Plaza instantly became a sea of cheers for Shrek. Even the Star Luo Emperor, who had been seated atop the city wall to watch, could not help rising to his feet, excitement showing on his face.
Part of it was because of Gu Qingnian. He wanted to see just what sort of person could be that distinguished figure's junior fellow disciple.
Another reason was that, back when