Ouyang Feng, Chu Yan's so-called rival, had also performed well, though it was clear to everyone that he had not quite reached Chu Yan's level. Despite this, Ouyang Feng's resolve only strengthened as he watched the proceedings, determined to push himself further.
Among the crowd, Yu Yunfei, the former class monitor, observed Chu Yan with a growing sense of jealousy. Once, she had been considered one of the top students in the school, but now Chu Yan has surpassed her in every way. Yu Yunfei clenched her fists, her expression darkening as she watched Chu Yan effortlessly maintain his place at the top.
"How could he have gotten so strong?" Yu Yunfei muttered to herself, her voice barely audible over the noise of the hall. Her cultivation level was at the Second- Level of the Martial Artist realm, and though it was one of the highest in her class, it paled in comparison to Chu Yan's Fourth- Level cultivation.
She knew she had no chance of overtaking Chu Yan at this moment, but the thought only fueled her determination.
'Even though I can't surpassed him, I will not let the gap between us increase too much.' As she brooded, Yu Yunfei's resolve hardened. She was not the type to give up easily.
As the second stage concluded, the head examiner addressed the students, his voice cutting through the murmur of conversations. "You have all demonstrated your cultivation and martial arts proficiency. The next stage of the examination will take place tomorrow morning, right here in the training hall. The third stage: the Martial Combat Evaluation.
In addition, those in Top 10 will represent the No. 2 high school in White River City Martial examination."
At this announcement, the students' expressions shifted from relief to renewed tension. The Martial Combat Evaluation would test their combat skills in real battles. This was where the true strength of their cultivation and martial arts proficiency would be put to the test.
Not only that, those who can reach the top 10 will represent their school, competing with other schools. Only fools wouldn't know that representing means more resources will be poured to them if they make a name for the school.
The examiners dismissed the students for the day, allowing them time to rest and prepare for the challenges ahead. As the students dispersed, the anticipation for tomorrow's combat evaluation weighed heavily on everyone's minds.
Chu Yan and his friends gathered in a corner of the training hall, discussing the day's events and what was to come. Su Ming, always the most vocal, couldn't contain his excitement. "Tomorrow's the real deal," he said, a wide grin on his face. "We finally get to show what we're made of in actual combat."
Zhang Yu nodded, his expression serious. "It's going to be tough. Everyone's going to bring their best. I just hope I wouldn't meet you and Ouyang Feng."
Chu Yan smiled," The competition probably be random pick. If you guys meet me, I won't show mercy."
Li Fui, more reserved, looked to Chu Yan." Of course you shouldn't. It be real insult to us if you hold back your strength."
Chu Yan smiled slightly, his eyes calm but focused. "Let's all do our best then."
As the students left the training hall, the weight of the upcoming challenge hung over them. The third stage would be a turning point, and everyone knew that it could change the course of their futures.
As he approached his home, the familiar sight of the modest yet well-kept courtyard brought a sense of comfort. Pushing open the gate, Chu Yan stepped into the courtyard where his younger sister, Chu Ying, was practicing her martial forms.
Chu Ying, who had been engrossed in her training, noticed her brother's arrival and paused, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "Brother! You're back!" she exclaimed, rushing over to him. "How did it go? Did you pass?"
Before Chu Yan could respond, the door to the main house opened, and his parents stepped out. His father, Chu Wan, was a tall, stern-looking man, but his eyes softened as he saw his son. His mother, Su Yi, followed close behind, her expression warm and filled with pride.
"Yan'er, welcome back," Chu Wan greeted, his voice calm yet filled with expectation. "Tell us, how did the evaluation go?"
Su Yi approached, her hands clasped together as she smiled at her son. "We've been waiting to hear about your day. Come, sit down, and tell us everything."
Chu Yan nodded, a small smile on his face as he followed his family inside as they gathered in the sitting room.
Taking a deep breath, Chu Yan began to recount the day's events. "The martial evaluation was intense," he started. "They tested both our cultivation levels and our proficiency in basic martial arts. I revealed my cultivation level—Fourth-Layer of the Martial Artist realm."
Chu Wan's eyes widened slightly, though he quickly composed himself. "The Fourth-Layer already? Impressive. You've made great progress, Yan'er."
Su Yi's expression brightened even more. "We knew you were talented, but to advance so quickly... We're so proud of you."
Although she didn't know what kind of secret Chu Yan had, as long as she knew that Chu Yan was her son, that's enough for her.
Chu Ying practically bounced in her seat, excitement radiating from her. "Wow! Brother, you're amazing! What did the examiners say?"
Chu Yan chuckled softly at his sister's enthusiasm. "They were surprised, to say the least. But that wasn't all—I also demonstrated the basic sword art, and my proficiency has reached the limit level."
This time, Chu Wan couldn't hide his pride. He leaned forward slightly, his stern demeanor giving way to a rare smile. "To reach the limit level in basic sword art at your age is no small feat. You've surpassed many expectations."
Chu Ying, still buzzing with energy, asked, "What happens next? Are you going to have another test?"
Chu Yan nodded, his expression becoming more serious. "Yes, tomorrow is the third stage: the Martial Combat Evaluation. We'll be tested in actual combat, and this will be the real challenge."
Chu Wan placed a hand on his son's shoulder, his grip firm yet reassuring. "You've prepared well for this moment, Yan'er. Don't forget to rest tonight. You'll need your energy for tomorrow."
Chu Yan smiled at his parents, feeling a surge of confidence and determination. "I will. Thank you, mom, dad and Ying'er."