The next morning, sunlight poured through classroom windows.
Fang Yang's group arrived early at Class Zero.
Then—steady footsteps echoed.
Wu Zhangkong appeared in the doorway—immaculate white combat attire, ice-blue hair flowing like silk.
Suddenly—the door opened again.
Dean Long Hengxu breezed in, beaming like a proud father.
"Good morning, Dean Long," Class Zero greeted—though confusion flickered in their eyes.
Dean Long rarely visited Class Zero—Wu Zhangkong's "approach-me-and-die" aura was legendary.
"Students—good morning!"
Long Hengxu's eyes lingered on Fang Yang and Gu Yue, pride and anticipation shining.
These elites would redefine Donghai Academy's legacy.
His voice turned warm:
"How's training? I came to check your progress—and also…"
"Spit it out," Wu Zhangkong cut in coldly, ending the pleasantries.
"Ahem…" Long Hengxu coughed awkwardly, then turned serious.
"The Tianhai Alliance Grand Tournament approaches. The Academy nominates Class Zero as its representatives."
"We don't expect rankings—just showcase your uniqueness.
Leave a lasting impression—this will boost Donghai's recruitment!"
"Tianhai Alliance Tournament?"
Wu Zhangkong nodded immediately. "Accepted. Good training for them."
"Thank you, Teacher Wu!" Long Hengxu beamed—finally, Wu Zhangkong cared about the Academy's interests!
"Wait," Wu Zhangkong added. "I have demands."
Long Hengxu's smile froze, eyes turning mournful.
"Of course you do… What is it this time?"
"Upgrade their diet," Wu Zhangkong stated bluntly.
"Nutrition is critical. Donghai's seafood is packed with restorative ingredients—procure the best."
"Understood. I'll petition the Dean," Long Hengxu agreed—this was utterly reasonable.
With that, he hurried off to the Senior Division offices.
Wu Zhangkong faced the class. "Your focus: Tianhai Alliance Tournament!"
"Teacher Wu—what is this tournament?" Tang Wulin asked, eyes sparkling.
"A triennial event co-hosted by five eastern coastal cities—a comprehensive showcase for elites."
Wu Zhangkong explained:
"Beyond soul master duels—it features Mecha Piloting, Battle Armor, Forging, Mecha Design, and Repair competitions."
"I see…" Tang Wulin grinned—as a Level 4 Blacksmith, he'd finally shine!
Fang Yang smirked, arms crossed. "Interesting. I'm looking forward to it."
(He'd meet two future Shrek Seven Devils—Ye Xinglan and Xu Lizhi…)
"Hell yes!" Xie Xie rubbed his hands, grinning. "Tired of slaughtering spirit beasts in the Platform—real rivals are way more fun!"
Gu Yue remained silent.
Xu Xiaoyan fidgeted nervously, equal parts excited and anxious.
Zhang Yangzi and Wang Jinxi exchanged determined looks—their Martial Soul Fusion Skill had its stage!
"The Academy's arrangement is excellent," Wu Zhangkong declared. "A rare chance to test yourselves."
His voice turned glacial:
"Everyone—except Xu Xiaoyan—enters the individual tournament."
"Why?" Xie Xie blurted.
"Xu Xiaoyan's Martial Soul excels in team combat," Wu Zhangkong snapped.
"The rest of you—prove your strength in the singles competition."
Silence fell—pressure thick in the air.
"Fang Yang," Wu Zhangkong locked eyes with him. "Your task: win the individual championship."
"Understood, Teacher Wu. I'll secure it," Fang Yang nodded firmly.
"For team events," Wu Zhangkong continued, "I've registered two trios:
Group One: Gu Yue, Xu Xiaoyan, Xie Xie.
Group Two: Tang Wulin, Zhang Yangzi, Wang Jinxi."
"What about me?" Fang Yang asked.
"Focus solely on singles," Wu Zhangkong stated. "Team events are meaningless for you."
"Got it," Fang Yang smiled knowingly.
At his level, joining teams would only hinder others.
"Dismissed. Prepare," Wu Zhangkong said—striding out.
The class exhaled collectively.
Xu Xiaoyan leaned toward Fang Yang, voice soft: "You're confident about winning singles?"
"Don't worry—guaranteed," he winked.
"Phew…" she sighed in relief.
"Scumbag Yang, you show-off…" Xie Xie teased.
"Xie Xie—I'll be waiting for you in the singles tournament," Fang Yang grinned.
"Big Bro Fang Yang, I repent!" Xie Xie pleaded, hands up in surrender.
He'd be roadkill if they met…
Tang Wulin stepped in. "Don't stress, Xie Xie—you won't even face Fang Yang!"
"Why not?!" Xie Xie snapped.
"Simple," Tang Wulin blinked innocently. "You'll get crushed before reaching him."
"TANG WULIN, YOU—!" Xie Xie sputtered, face crimson.
"Relax!" Tang Wulin laughed. "I'll just win the Forging Championship instead!"
"You insufferable—!" Xie Xie growled, plotting revenge.
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