In truth, Kael’s instructional videos were merely a catalyst to speed things up.

  Mastering advanced combat techniques was heavily dependent on a person’s Comprehension . The more complex the skill, the higher the mental requirement. While Kael’s selfless sharing was vital, the "Enlightenment" buff from the cup noodles probably deserved a fair share of the credit for the students' rapid progress.

  Kael, ever the pragmatic businessman, knew that Gu Pingchuan was the key to his shop's expansion. If the Dean was impressed, he’d likely send even more students to fill the newly expanded rows of training pods. It made the effort of renovation worth it.

  However, even when making a recommendation, Kael’s voice remained flat and indifferent. His casual tone actually took Gu Pingchuan by surprise.

  "Well then, since Manager Kael has extended the invitation, I suppose it would be rude to refuse," Gu Pingchuan replied, finally processing that the young man was actually being "hospitable" in his own way. "But before that, I must check on the progress of our competitors."

  "Instructor Zhong."

  "I’m here, Dean Gu," Zhong Lingyun said, stepping forward immediately.

  She understood the gravity of the Academy Tournament. It was the most prestigious event among the three major institutions, a grand competition that determined the ranking of the strongest academies in the Eastern Wasteland.

  "Gather the trainees. It's time for a briefing," Gu Pingchuan commanded, standing in the center of the shop's lobby. He then glanced at the counter. "Manager Kael, I hope you don't mind me borrowing your floor for a moment?"

  "Suit yourself," Kael waved a hand, looking utterly unbothered.

  The Brilliance Academy squad assembled with practiced precision, lining up according to their school year.

  "As you all know, you are the chosen representatives for the upcoming Academy Tournament. The institution has placed immense expectations on your shoulders," Gu Pingchuan began.

  The gentle old man’s demeanor shifted. He now radiated the natural authority and gravitas of a powerful Dean. "This unique off-site training camp is a testament to our commitment to your success. I expect each of you to complete your objectives with excellence and bring honor to Brilliance Academy."

  "YES, DEAN!"

  The roar of the nine students echoed through the shop, vibrating the glass and causing every other customer to whip their heads around in surprise.

  Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

  "Keep it down. No shouting in the shop," Kael interjected, his voice cutting through the noise. The sheer volume had practically made his hair stand on end.

  "Sorry, Manager..." Jing Qingyun and the others muttered, instantly shrinking back and lowering their voices.

  "No need for such formality here," Gu Pingchuan said, gesturing for them to relax. "This year, the tournament is divided into Singles and Duos. Each school year—Freshman, Sophomore, and Junior—will have their own designated arena."

  "Each academy must field three elite students per year level to participate in both formats. We originally planned to hold internal trials to select the final nine, but given the circumstances, we’ll waive that requirement."

  "I am here today to finalize the roster. Decide amongst yourselves who will compete in the Singles matches and who will form the Duo teams."

  The tournament followed a round-robin format: one win equaled one point. At the end, the points from all three years and both formats would be tallied to determine the overall academy rankings. It was the fairest way to measure an institution's collective strength.

  Once the announcement was over, Gu Pingchuan dismissed the group. His primary goal was to settle the roster, and now that it was done, he was eager to see what this New World Mode was all about.

  "Duos this year, huh? Sis, want to team up with me?" Ying Feng asked, looking completely unfazed. He glanced toward Ying Xue.

  "The other two academies must have found some new trump cards," Ying Xue said with a small smile. "But it doesn't matter."

  The Sophomores were even less concerned. Mo Hei and Mo Bai were twin brothers; their synchronization was already second to none.

  "Sister Wuji, we’re both mages. Do you think a double-mage team is a bad idea?" Shuangshuang asked, looking at their respective staves.

  "That’s why I told you to study the Archmage's techniques in the Arena," Wuji replied, tapping the girl’s forehead with a slender finger. "A team of mages can be terrifying if played correctly."

  "I'll take care of the two points for the Singles," Jing Qingyun declared before turning back to his pod to resume his solo grind.

  "The New World Mode... truly lives up to its name. The sensation of starting one's cultivation from scratch is remarkably refreshing," Gu Pingchuan mused.

  He had just emerged from a dungeon run with Kael, his face full of contemplative wonder. "It has given this old man some very unexpected insights."

  Kael arched an eyebrow. As expected of a Hero-tier powerhouse. Anyone who could reach that level through sheer grit and talent possessed top-tier comprehension. To gain a breakthrough just from a "game" session was nothing short of impressive.

  Sensing Kael’s surprise, Gu Pingchuan chuckled. "Manager Kael, don't be so shocked. My primary class is Archmage. The essence of that path lies in the masterful manipulation of low-tier and universal magic."

  "Starting from zero allowed me to strip away the complexities and focus on the fundamentals. It was quite the revelation. My thanks to you for the invitation."

  "I see," Kael replied, offering a rare word of praise. "Even so, your comprehension is truly staggering, Dean Gu."

  "You flatter me. Compared to you, it is hardly worth mentioning," Gu Pingchuan said with genuine humility.

  In his mind, he had reached his peak due to the limits of his natural aptitude. But Kael? Kael’s greatest advantage was his youth. To possess such unfathomable strength and exquisite combat skills at such a young age—it was terrifying.

  If he keeps growing, Gu Pingchuan thought, where will he end up? Will he reach the 'Strong' tier that I am still a step away from, or perhaps even the legendary 'King' tier that hasn't been seen in ages?

  "It’s been years since I’ve felt this kind of inspiration," Gu Pingchuan sighed. "I won't trouble you any longer today. Manager Kael, I shall take my leave."