บท 69: Chapter 68
"I've revealed my hand. No more pretending. I am actually an 'E' rank powerhouse!" Jiang Tao declared smugly.
He spoke loudly on purpose, catching the attention of many nearby students. Several girls cast astonished glances at Jiang Tao. Achieving an 'E' rank strength evaluation in the safe zone was no easy feat.
For a moment, Jiang Tao's ego was greatly satisfied.
"By the way, old Chen, have you reached E rank yet?" Jiang Tao asked.
Chen Ye shook his head cooperatively and said, "You're impressive, I admit!"
"Hehe!"
Jiang Tao chuckled, then patted Chen Ye on the shoulder. "Don't be discouraged, old Chen. Even if you can't get into the special abilities academy, with your grades, you'll definitely get into a vocational school… By the way, you seem different today. Taller, more muscular? Is it just my imagination?"
It wasn't just Jiang Tao who noticed; other classmates had long been aware of Chen Ye's changes today. Some girls curiously scrutinized him. Usually, Chen Ye appeared ordinary, but today, he seemed very attractive—taller and much more fit.
Chen Ye gently brushed Jiang Tao's hand away, saying, "I'm just growing. Isn't it normal to grow quickly?"
"But your changes are too drastic! Did you eat some growth formula?"
"Can't be bothered to explain!" Chen Ye shifted the topic back. "Congratulations, though. Looks like we won't be classmates anymore! Don't forget your old friend when you make it big!"
"Old Chen, what are you saying? I'd never forget you!"
Jiang Tao pretended to be displeased.
At that moment, the school broadcast suddenly sounded:
"Attention everyone, all senior students, please gather at the playground!"
Hearing this, many students stood up and headed to the playground. Their expressions were markedly different: those who had reached 'E' rank were excited, while those who hadn't were expressionless, tinged with jealousy.
"Let's go, old Chen."
Jiang Tao eagerly dragged Chen Ye to the playground, saying, "The recruitment must be starting!"
Chen Ye shook his head and followed Jiang Tao out of the classroom, merging with other classes on the large playground.
"Everyone, line up according to your class. Boys in one line, girls in another. Stay orderly!" the dean loudly maintained order on the playground.
The students obediently lined up as instructed.
To Chen Ye's left was the girls' line from the neighboring class.
"Look, old Chen, it's Wen Xiaohua!" Jiang Tao whispered excitedly behind Chen Ye.
Chen Ye instinctively turned to look and indeed saw a delicate and beautiful face. However, he felt nothing special. With his mature mindset, he was past the age of being impulsive.
Jiang Tao whispered from behind, "I heard Wen Xiaohua's overall strength has long reached 'E' rank. I wonder which school she'll choose. Maybe I'll end up being her classmate! Old Chen, if that happens, you should visit my school often to see your dream girl."
Chen Ye rolled his eyes and whispered, "Shut your mouth!"
...
When all the students had gathered, the school principal and several unfamiliar faces stepped onto the podium, looking down at the students.
The principal began with some formalities (mostly nonsense) before getting to the point: "Today, I have good news. Various special abilities academies are expanding their recruitment. They all have special quotas. You must all strive to perform well. Do you understand?"
"Yes!"
Hundreds of students shouted, creating an impressive scene.
"Now, all students with an 'E' rank strength evaluation, please step forward."
As soon as the principal finished, many students stepped out, including Wen Xingyi and Jiang Tao behind Chen Ye. However, Chen Ye remained motionless.
If he stepped forward, with his current overall strength, the special abilities academies would definitely compete to recruit him!
But!
Chen Ye had long decided to lay low...
At least until his strength reached A rank, he intended to keep a low profile.
Out of several hundred students, less than one-tenth stepped forward.
By rough estimate, there were only about twenty or so.
The principal nodded in satisfaction and said with a smile, "The rest of you may return to your classrooms. Study hard and prepare for the college entrance exams!"
Chen Ye and the others returned to their classrooms.
With no teacher present, the classroom buzzed with various envious and jealous remarks:
"Damn, I didn't expect Wang Chao to secretly achieve an 'E' rank without saying a word."
"Yeah, we definitely need to make him treat us."
"Even Li Bin made it to 'E.' With his grades, he'd have trouble getting into a vocational school. Really didn't expect that..."
Listening to his classmates, Chen Ye detected a strong scent of jealousy.
He tuned out the chatter and started contemplating.
His original plan was to skip college altogether, even if he got into a good school. But thinking about his father's hopeful eyes, Chen Ye felt conflicted.
His father desperately wanted him to succeed. If he didn't go to college, his father would be devastated.
Sighing, Chen Ye silently took out his books and began studying...
...
The morning passed quickly.
At noon, the students who had been specially recruited by the special abilities academies were surrounded by friends, demanding a treat for their silent achievement.
Chen Ye avoided the hustle, but Jiang Tao sought him out.
"Old Chen, let's go to Deli Restaurant!"
With a beaming face, Jiang Tao laughed, "My old man transferred 5,000 yuan to my card when he found out I got into a special abilities academy. Lunch is on me today!"
Chen Ye didn't want to spoil the mood, so he agreed with a smile, "Congratulations! You definitely owe me a treat."
In their class, the two had the best relationship, often spending nights at internet cafes together.
Though Jiang Tao liked to show off, he treated Chen Ye well, never forgetting him when good things came his way.
So, the two set off for Deli Restaurant together.
Upon arrival, they found the restaurant bustling with students celebrating their special recruitment.
Coincidentally, Chen Ye saw Wen Xingyi there too.
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