"Over the past two days, I've been observing the other academies' matches while listening to the reactions to our first battle from all sides. The results have been far better than I expected.
"Now, in the eyes of the other academies, our Shrek Academy is the very embodiment of mystery and strength. They have no idea just how powerful we really are. But Qingnian is undoubtedly the person they've discussed the most.
"Thanks to the deliberate show Qingnian, all of you, and I put on that day, he has clearly become the leading figure among our competitors in their minds."
The six exchanged silent glances and smiled at one another, saying in unison, "And he really is."
Ma Xiaotao couldn't help sighing. "When it comes to showing off, I'd crown Qingnian number one!"
Wang Dong lowered her head slightly, her expression dimming. "I wonder how he's doing now."
Jiang Nannan and Ma Xiaotao immediately went still, a trace of worry crossing their faces. Everyone else fell silent as well.
Seeing the mood take a turn, Wang Yan hurriedly spoke up. "I've contacted Xuan Zi. He'll be arriving within the next two days, so you don't need to worry too much.
"Our goal right now is the tournament! If we do well, we can give Qingnian a surprise when he returns, can't we?"
Only then did their expressions brighten a little.
Wang Yan sighed. "Over the past two days, I've watched the other academies' matches carefully. This first elimination round could only be described as brutal.
"Almost no academy advanced as easily as we did. Even the Sun Moon Royal Soul Engineer Academy met fierce resistance from its opponents and took a full ten minutes to finish the battle.
"That means we've had plenty of time to rest and sharpen our