Chen Xiaojun's next words went off like another heavy bomb in everyone's hearts. "And the Soul Fighting Academy knows our Seven Kill Sword inside out. More importantly, they have another Martial Soul Fusion Skill!"
Chen Mu's face instantly darkened. He spat out the name, one word at a time. "Eighth on the millennial ranking. Baxia!"
The name carried an invisible pressure, instantly freezing the atmosphere around them.
For a moment, no one spoke. The pressure around them dropped at a visibly perceptible speed, and even the air grew heavy.
Chen Xiaojun's storm-cloud eyes were so dark they could have dripped ink.
Just then, Xiao Yi seemed entirely out of place amid the tension. She continued eating at her own unhurried pace, the food in her hands looking utterly tempting. Completely immersed in the pleasure of enjoying her meal, she showed no sign of nervousness.
Then she slowly reached her little hand toward Chen Xiaojun and gently clasped his.
That clasp conveyed warmth and strength, dispersing a little of the gloom in Chen Xiaojun's heart.
The others either lowered their heads in silent thought, clearly still digesting the shocking news Chen Xiaojun had brought, or joined her in eating, though their movements looked somewhat unnatural.
People always seemed to keep themselves busy when they were embarrassed or nervous.
Yet Xiao Yi's calm composure was like a clear, refreshing stream.
There seemed to be something magical about Xiao Yi's tranquility, and it gradually spread to those around her.
Her unruffled manner brought a little relief to the tense, oppressive atmosphere.
Feeling the warmth flowing from Xiao Yi's hand, Chen Xiaojun could not help smiling faintly. His mood slowly settled, and the taut string within him finally slackened for a moment.
"Prodigies rise together, and heroes contend for the crown!"
Chen Xiaojun finally