Rein looked away. "I just didn't like him. That's all." "But you should have given him a chance to show his worth. Maybe he was hiding his true abilities, and you wasted that opportunity. Why? Because you're uncertain? Don't make me laugh, Rein. Everything in this world is uncertain." Rein turned back to Xin. "You give advice like you're a saint. Stop pretending to be kind." Xin sighed and patted Rein's shoulder. "You want to know why I didn't choose him? It's simple. I just didn't like him either." Rein was left deep in thought.
On the same floor, Hanzuo was chatting with guests when a group of people approached, led by a man with a mustache. He wore a golden crown and had curly hair that reached his shoulders. His red robe was luxurious, and the golden designs on his clothes and shoes sparkled. He was surrounded by guards and attendants, including Lucien and Elise. Their presence drew attention, and everyone couldn't help but look at them.
When Hanzuo saw the approaching man, he bowed respectfully. "Good morning, Your Majesty Xien. I'm glad to see you're safe and back at our institution." The guests bowed as well, showing respect to the royalty. King Xien waved his hand, and everyone stood up straight. "I hope my children have been doing well, Hanzuo."
King Xien, a 4th Grade Celestial and a Lord Rank Adventurer, asked a question that made Hanzuo nervous. "I hope you're not going to avoid answering my question, Hanzuo. I want to know if they'll be the ones to reach the top of this institution, just like I did and those before me." Lucien wanted to interrupt, but his father's cold stare silenced him.
Just then, another group approached, led by King Sauro of the Chien Kingdom, a 3rd Grade Celestial. He was accompanied by his son, Tyron, and some attendants and guards. "Good morning, King Sauro. It's good to see you," Hanzuo said, bowing.
King Sauro said, "Hanzuo, answer King Xien's question. Tell us the truth." Before Hanzuo could respond, another king, King Walder Kan, a 1st Grade Celestial, arrived with his son, Prince Warren, and some attendants and guards. Hanzuo was caught in a difficult situation, unsure of how to respond.
The tension between the three kingdoms was palpable. The fake smiles on the kings' faces only added to the nervous atmosphere. "Excuse me, everyone. I'd like to announce that the ceremony to officially open the Guilds Event will begin. Please proceed to the central hall on the first floor."
The guests began to move, and the tension was temporarily alleviated. The royalty remained on the second floor, watching the proceedings below. Hanzuo stood in the center of the hall, and the crowd applauded.
"Welcome, everyone. To our esteemed guests from various clans, students of the institution, fellow teachers, and our noble leaders from the three kingdoms. I, Hanzuo Valleri, headmaster of White Temple Institute, officially declare the 67th Guilds Event open!" The crowd erupted in applause.
Hanzuo continued, "The guilds will compete against each other for honor. Will it be the Black Dragons, Gray Phoenix, Scarlet Fox, or White Hunters? Who will emerge victorious?" The students cheered, and the atmosphere became electric.
Hanzuo smiled, pleased with the response. "But I have some new information to share. I'd like to introduce Emrys Valestron, from the Death Lotus clan. With the approval of the High Elders and myself, he will participate in the Guilds Event."
The three kings exchanged surprised glances, but said nothing. Hanzuo continued, "The first stage of the competition will begin now. The objective is to capture Emrys Valestron and bring him back to this hall within a day. The guild that succeeds will receive 500 points." The crowd erupted in cheers and applause.