Chương 34: Final Exam Announcement
As the echoes of various performances on the Ascension to the Spirit Platform lingered , Wu xhangkong, overseeing the proceedings, broke the silence with a measured analysis. "If I were to score your experiences, Zhang Yangzi would receive zero points, Wang Jinxi one, Anping four, Gu Yuena three, and Tang Wulin and Xie Xie would earn a perfect five."
His gaze swept over the assembled individuals, his words cutting through the atmosphere. "Gu Yuena, despite her ability, lacked teamwork. Anping, while adept at avoiding danger, failed to seek out teammates. On the other hand, Tang Wulin and Xie Xie displayed remarkable teamwork, supporting each other in the face of formidable challenges."
"Moving forward, delve deeper into the understanding of soul beasts. Don't underestimate the relevance of this knowledge, as many soul master skills originated from these creatures. Familiarity with them equips you to handle various situations on the Spirit Ascension Platform, a crucial facet of your growth."
The intensity of Wu Zhangkong's gaze intensified as he addressed the group sternly. "Starting today, you form a team. Tang Wulin leads as the captain, with Xie Xie as the vice-captain."
Gu Yuena questioned the purpose, to which Wu Zhangkong responded with a steely glare. "Throughout history, whether the first generation of Shrek's Seven Monsters or its predecessors, the power of a unified team surpasses that of individuals. Aim for excellence as a team, not just individual strength."
He turned his attention to Anping, delivering a pointed message. "Talented as you may be, learn to integrate into the team. A cohesive unit can amplify your strengths."
"Once a week, you'll face the Spiritual Ascension Platform together, fostering understanding and synergy. Now, no more deliberation. Basic combat training begins today, starting with the order of your appearances on the Ascension Platform. First up, Zhang Yangzi."
The shuffling of tables against the walls signaled the transition to practical training under Wu Zhangkong's watchful eye. As Class Zero's melancholic melody echoed once more, each member took their turn, striving to impress their mentor.
When Gu Yuena completed her training, Wu Zhangkong didn't mince words, pinpointing the flaws in her technique. As she moved to return to the classroom's periphery, he halted her with a stern directive. "Gu Yuena, at nine years old, this is a crucial time for strength development. Focus on what truly matters."
Perplexed, Gu Yuena questioned, "Teacher Wu, I don't understand your point."
His tone remained frigid. "I acknowledge the allure of beauty, but as a soul master, adorning yourself with such accessories hinders your combat maneuvers."
Gu Yuena defended her choice, "They enhance my elemental perception. They're not useless."
Wu Zhangkong skeptically inquired, "Soul guide? I sensed no soul power fluctuations."
"I can't explain it. Perhaps there are hidden runes," Gu Yuena shrugged.
Wu Zhangkong dismissed the topic with a wave, leaving Tang Wulin to observe silently. He leaned in to Xie Xie and whispered, "Mithril?"
Xie Xie, intrigued, asked, "What did you say, Wulin?"
Tang Wulin clarified, "Gu Yuena's bracelet is crafted from mithril."
"Mithril? So what? Maybe she's wealthy," Xie Xie nonchalantly responded.
Tang Wulin mused, "Remember Anping's mithril box during the dormitory move?"
"That was from Anping?"
Tang Wulin shook his head, "I don't know. Just seems like a coincidence."
"You're not secretly fond of Gu Yuena, are you? Why else would you be so invested? You mentioned meeting a senior before. Who's your preference?" Xie Xie probed with a mischievous glint.
Tang Wulin blushed, vehemently denying, "Impossible."
Xie Xie teased, "I don't know about your mysterious senior sister. Gu Yuena thinks you have no chance. Anping is the one catching her eye."
Tang Wulin, troubled by conflicting thoughts, fell silent, grappling with Old Tang's cryptic words about Gu Yuena's potential assistance.
Subsequent days brought a rigorous routine, blending daily combat training with the exploration of soul beast knowledge and team battle coordination exercises. The latter involved facing the formidable challenge of a six-person battle against the stern Wu Zhangkong.
Weekly sessions on the Ascension Platform became a pivotal aspect of their training, with Wu Zhangkong strategically pairing Anping and Gu Yuena. Their cooperation transformed the team's dynamics, enhancing their ability to handle diverse challenges seamlessly.
Despite the overall improvement, hurdles persisted. The unpredictable distances to the Ascension Platform often left team members waiting for Anping and Gu Yuena, but the progress compared to the initial weeks was significant.
Anping found himself juggling an increasingly demanding schedule, diving into both spell acquisition and alchemical pursuits. The tangible progress he experienced in spell models and alchemical patterns brought a sense of satisfaction, making the hectic routine worthwhile.
As the first semester of their first year hurtled toward its conclusion, Wu Zhangkong entered the classroom with an unusual announcement. Instead of immediately launching into a lesson, he declared, "The semester is drawing to a close, and you'll face two final exams. The first one is the Ascension to the Spirit Platform."
Curiosity prompted Xie Xie to inquire, "What's the second item?"
Wu Changkong responded cryptically, "The second item will be revealed after your initial assessment. I must warn you that this time, you'll venture into the Spirit Ascension Platform during a period of unrest."
Tang Wulin, sporting a puzzled expression, queried, "A riot period in the Spirit Ascension Platform? How is it different from our previous experiences?"
Wu Changkong explained, "Twice a year, the Ascension Platform enters a riot period. Initially, it was due to the unstable energy used in its construction. However, advancements in science and technology brought control to these periods, turning them into a unique challenge. During this time, soul beasts inside become more active, increasing in number and danger."
He emphasized the significance of the opportunity they had secured. "The academy invested significantly to secure 300 slots for each of the Eighteen Heavenly Pillars. You must value this chance."
Wu Changkong continued, "You'll enter the riot period as a group, limited to seven members. With six of you, it's an ideal team size. Due to heightened soul beast activity, Anping's soul perception may be less effective, making teamwork crucial."
He delved into additional details. "Inside, you won't only face soul beasts but also other soul masters. Absorbing spiritual power during the riot period takes a hundred times longer, making leaving the Ascension Platform a risk as any remaining power will be absorbed by the nearest soul master."
Zhang Yangzi, ever eager, commented, "So, others can steal our spiritual power, and we can do the same to them."
Wu Zhangkong eyed Zhang Yangzi with a hint of caution. "If you're confident, it's possible, but bear in mind that the primary Spirit Ascension Platform is limited to those at the peak of the third ring. With increased soul beast numbers, powerful enemies await."
Tang Wulin assured, "Rest assured, Teacher Wu. We'll rely on the strength of our team."
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