21 Promotion Match Begins

No longer burdened by Anping's predicament, Wu Zhangkong shifted his gaze to the four individuals before him. "The promotion competition is set to commence next week, one match per day until all contests conclude. Your target is to reach the fourth grade," he declared.

Upon hearing Wu Zhangkong's ambitious goal, astonishment painted Xie Xie and Tang Wulin's expressions. The fourth graders, already twelve years old, typically boasted the prowess of second-level soul masters unless their talents were particularly lacking. Despite having two second-level soul masters in their own fifth class, those fresh to the second level wouldn't stand a chance in the upcoming promotion competition.

Moreover, the fourth graders held several years' advantage over the third graders, even factoring in Wu Zhangkong's specialized training. The discrepancy in combat experience alone was formidable.

With an air of composure, Wu Zhangkong continued, "I'm referring to Class 1 of the fourth grade. Achieve this goal, and you'll reap all the rewards. Fail, and those rewards will serve as class fees."

Intrigued, Tang Wulin inquired, "Teacher Wu, may I ask what rewards await us in the promotion competition?"

Anping, too, leaned in eagerly, desperate to discover the nature of the reward. Financial strain pressed upon him, especially with the escalating costs of his alchemical pursuits.

In the intricate world of alchemy, the demand stretched beyond resilient magical metals; the very essence of soul beasts, with energy as the core material, was essential for crafting the intricate formations. Anping found himself grappling not only with the complexities of alchemical artistry but also with the financial strain, given his meager income from the Spirit Pagoda's rewards.

Wu Zhangkong's gaze shifted, landing on Tang Wulin. "The promotion competition isn't just about reshuffling class rankings; the crucial aspect lies in the academy's recognition. Exceptional performance opens doors for future applications to higher-level academies—a substantial advantage. Additionally, the academy rewards students with federal coins based on their achievements."

"As your class teacher, I'll be allocated a portion of the reward for outstanding students in the teaching department. If you meet the goals I've set, you'll receive a share of that reward," Wu Zhangkong explained.

Gratitude filled Tang Wulin's voice as he responded, "Thank you, Teacher Wu."

Wu Zhangkong, however, cautioned, "Hold your gratitude until you've achieved the set goals. Failure means these rewards will serve as class fees."

Curiosity brimming, Xie Xie couldn't resist asking, "Teacher Wu, do you have information on Class 4's contestants? Can you share it with us?"

Wu Zhangkong's response carried a cold edge, "Information for a Class Four? As my students, I have only one expectation: crush them, so you don't need to know any information."

The day of the competition unfolded, strategically scheduled after school hours to safeguard the students' academic commitments. With Class 5 of Grade 1 pitted against Class 4 of the same grade, the audience turnout was modest. In the eyes of most students, the numerical distinction between Class 4 and Class 5 didn't promise any significant variance in outstanding individuals.

Three months of relentless training had wrought a profound transformation upon Grade 5 Class 5, a stark contrast to the lackadaisical demeanor of Class 4.

As the teaching director, Long Hengxu, and the respective head teachers of the two classes confirmed the attendance, they ascended the stage. "The promotion competition is officially underway. The inaugural match features Class 5 of Grade 1 challenging Class 4 of Grade 1. Teacher Wu, kindly present your contestants."

Wu Zhangkong gestured casually, "Xie Xie, Tang Wulin, Gu Yuena, step forward for the opening round."

With the trio taking their positions on the stage, Long Hengxu addressed the Class 4 teacher, "Both classes have three participants each. Teacher Long, you have five minutes to finalize your lineup."

"Prepare yourselves. The inaugural match of the promotion competition—Class 5 of Grade 1 against Class 4 of Grade 1—is about to commence."

Following Long Hengxu's directive, the three representatives from Class 4 of Grade 1 promptly unleashed their soul rings, setting the stage for the eagerly awaited clash.

In a swift ten seconds, the attack-specialized soul master from Class 4 succumbed to a single devastating blow from Tang Wulin, while Xie Xie, even swifter, efficiently dispatched the opposing auxiliary and agility-type soul masters.

Gu Yuena found herself without the need to unleash her prowess; Class 5 of the first grade had already emerged victorious.

The abrupt shift in the demeanor of Class 4's teacher, who had previously flaunted his confidence, spoke volumes as the reality of their defeat settled in. The ease of their loss caught him off guard.

"Class 5 of the first grade claims victory. If you remain in Class 5 after the promotion competition, expect a reshuffling of ranks. Tomorrow, prepare to challenge the third class of the first grade," Long Hengxu declared, prompting cheers from Class 5.

Wu Zhangkong, indifferent to the defeated class teacher of Class 4, declared, "Class dismissed."

Xie Xie, elated, exchanged a high-five with Tang Wulin. Anticipating a respite from the night's special training due to the promotion match, Xie Xie eagerly pulled Tang Wulin aside.

"Finally, no more training. How about we go out and have some fun?" Xie Xie suggested in a hushed tone.

Tang Wulin shook his head, offering an alternative, "The cafeteria is about to open. Why don't you head there?"

Xie Xie found himself at a loss for words. "All you ever think about is eating. Fine, here's the deal—I'll take you out, and I'll treat you to a meal."

"Okay." Tang Wulin readily agreed when the prospect of a treat arose.

Glancing at Gu Yuena and Anping nearby, Tang Wulin suggested, "Why don't we invite Gu Yuena and Anping to join us?"

During their time in Glorybound City, Tang Wulin had sensed Anping's inclination to distance himself from others. Three months of special training only reinforced this impression. Both Tang Wulin and Wu Zhangkong shared a sense that Anping was somewhat self-centered, lacking consideration for his teammates—a trait Tang Wulin found unappealing.

Gu Yuena, on the other hand, exuded an allure that drew Tang Wulin towards her.

Xie Xie dismissed the idea, shaking his head. "What's the point? It's just the two of us. And besides, you don't really fancy Gu Yuena anymore, do you? Look, they're not even engaging with us. Why bother inviting them?"

Caught off guard by the suggestion that he had feelings for Gu Yuena, Tang Wulin blushed. He shook his head, stammering, "N-no way. Let's just go without inviting them."

With that, Tang Wulin nudged Xie Xie towards the academy gate.

Observing the duo heading out, Gu Yuena gently patted Anping on the shoulder. "Looks like they're going out to have some fun. Do you want to join them?"

Anping shook his head, his doubt evident. "Aren't you going with them?"

"They didn't ask me," Gu Yuena stated matter-of-factly. "How about you invite me to join you?"

"No money, no invitation!" Anping asserted firmly.

Gu Yuena chided him, "Where are your manners, young man?"

Anping retorted, "Manners? I'm sorry, but I'm just a nine-year-old kid."

Amused by Anping's response, Gu Yuena teased, "Alright, nine-year-old kid, how about I treat you to an outing?"

Anping questioned, "Is there anything interesting in Eastsea City?"

"I don't know, we'll figure it out. Just come along, my treat. You can't say no." Without waiting for Anping's agreement, she tugged him towards the campus exit.