As the sedan of Habea III entered the towering building, a sudden gust of wind swept through Training Ground, wreaking havoc. Accompanying this fierce wind was an overwhelming pressure that blanketed the entire area, casting a dark and gloomy shadow as if the sky were covered by ominous clouds. The cold air dropped several degrees, chilling to the bone.
"Elder!" A continuous chant arose from the crowd, growing louder until it echoed throughout the area, causing a stir in the atmosphere as everyone bowed in respect.
The Gray-Robed Elder paused for a moment, then followed the gaze of the crowd upwards. He saw an Azure Eye Behemoth slowly descending from the sky. On its massive body, which measured five or six meters long, sat an elderly man in a gray robe, his presence radiating a powerful and intimidating aura. One could almost see tangible energy currents forming around him, a sign that his energy field was nearing mastery and about to become a domain.
"How strong! Is this the power of a High-Level Giant? This pressure is nearly suffocating, far surpassing that mere fragment of Divine Consciousness Projection from yesterday."
A flicker of shock crossed Bu's eyes as he gazed at the hunched figure seated atop the Azure Eye Behemoth. Despite appearing frail and weak, the elder seemed to be one with the ground beneath him, exuding an unshakeable presence akin to an ancient pine tree standing tall against the elements.
"Elder." As the elder settled on the ground level with twelve stone pillars, all Judges rose and placed their hands on their chests in salute. A figure who had reached High-Level status, though not among the top tier of High-Level 8th rank, held significant status worthy of everyone's respect.
"You need not be overly formal. I have come today to witness whether this final day's Peak Showdown will be as thrilling and intense as last time. If our Crook Duchy can produce another talent like Bin, why should we worry about our nation's prosperity?" The Gray-Clad Elder waved his hand with a smile, speaking politely without any airs of superiority typical of a High-Level Giant. However, his mention of Bin caused all Judges to exchange glances filled with intrigue.
Bin Fenge, a highly esteemed Star Student from Holy Light Academy, stood above all other students except for nine others of equal rank. Even Elena, daughter of the Headmaster of Holy Light Academy, could not compare to him.
Since emerging victorious in the last Qualification Challenge ten years ago, Bin had surged ahead and claimed first place in the Peak Showdown, unmatched by anyone else. His brilliance was unparalleled.
Shortly after entering the academy, his strength skyrocketed; he made significant leaps almost every year. In just six years, Bin reached High-Level status and became one of the top ten Star Students at Holy Light Academy.
Such a legendary figure was comparable to Sean Sterling, who also entered High-Level at twenty years old; both were extraordinary talents rarely seen in a century.
As the mention of Bin came up, all Judges had varying thoughts and expressions. Meanwhile, Sean Sterling smirked inwardly, having grasped the underlying meaning behind those words—merely an attempt to reassure everyone after yesterday's commotion so that no one would dare tarnish Crook Duchy's reputation upon returning to the academy.
After all, most would consider it unwise to risk offending a Star Student by troubling a duchy.
"Haha, Elder truly cares for our nation and its people. It is indeed a blessing for Crook Duchy to have your protection," said Elena, her charming smile illuminating her eyes with brilliance. Her compliment felt genuine rather than sycophantic. She continued smoothly, "Now that Elder has arrived, I shall not delay any longer; let us commence the Peak Showdown."
With her words spoken, Elena gracefully floated onto the largest central Arena. Her voice carried an alluring yet authoritative tone as she announced to all: "The time has come; the Peak Showdown officially begins."
Her voice swept across the venue like an invisible storm, jolting everyone into attention as they turned their gazes toward the arena. Some contestants felt both nervous and excited as they tightly gripped their weapons, their knuckles turning white from exertion.
Bu stepped out of the pavilion after exchanging a glance with Reynold. In that moment, both silently conveyed to each other, "At the final peak, I hope you can persevere until the end."
Meanwhile, Elena spoke up loudly, instructing, "The ten individuals with the most victories from yesterday's group matches are to immediately take the stage to defend their positions. Excluding the Final Four contestants, the remaining Six People will take their places on Arenas Five through Ten according to their rankings.
The remaining Seven Contestants will have the priority to challenge the ten on stage. The winner will remain and continue to defend their position, while the loser will step down and be ranked last.
Everyone only has one opportunity to challenge, and each time a defender is challenged, they will receive a half-hour break for adjustment.
Once the top ten are determined, a final ranking match will be held to decide the first through tenth places.
Each Arena will have a Judge overseeing the challenges, and no one is allowed to defy the Judge's rulings on victory or defeat."
Upon hearing these words, the crowd erupted into a flurry of discussion and excitement.
From atop the twelve tall stone pillars, ten Judges immediately leaped down. Only Sean Sterling remained seated on his pillar, appearing calm and observant as if watching a show unfold.
The ten Judges each chose an Arena, but Arena Eight, which was nearly at the edge, was selected by Beck to preside over. It was unclear whether this was intentional or not. As Bu quickly approached, he couldn't help but feel a bit gloomy upon witnessing this scene.
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