"First, we contest for the final two spots. Then, we contest for the top three spots. The top three will fight in pairs. The winners take the top two spots. The losers then face each other to contest for the third spot."
The rules were announced.
The draw began.
Soon, the Evil Star Sect's name was drawn, and their first opponent was determined. It was the sect of the bald brute who had previously spoken rudely to Han Shuang.
This sect wasn't exceptionally strong, but within the Scarlet Water Small World, ranking somewhere in the top six or seven wasn't a problem. Their reputation certainly outshone the Evil Star Sect.
"Heh heh, Sect Master Han, we really are fated, aren't we?" That Zhao Lao Qi grinned obsequiously at Han Shuang, his expression utterly wretched.
Han Shuang's mood was actually quite poor; their first opponent was a tricky one.
The Golden Talisman Sect couldn't be considered overwhelmingly powerful, but they excelled in using talismans. In battle, they often used talismans to unleash hidden potential, frequently securing victory through unexpected means.
It was fair to say Han Shuang was not particularly satisfied with this matchup.
"Everyone, the Golden Talisman Sect is a troublesome opponent, but that doesn't mean we stand no chance at all. This is a best-of-five battle. As long as we send five fighters and win three rounds, we win. Who's confident they can win a round? Speak up."
Elder Ge and Elder Xu looked rather displeased and reprimanded them, "You two, this is no time for posturing. The contest for the sect's seating is at stake. Don't overestimate your own abilities."
Jiang Chen chuckled, "Elder Ge, Elder Xu, you're not worms in my belly. How could you know I'm just posturing?"
Elder Ge and Elder Xu were immediately rendered speechless.
"Hmph! Sect Master, you'd better get a full understanding of our overall strategy. We can't let some people's recklessness ruin everything," Elder Xu snorted lightly.
"Save your breath," Han Shuang said with some displeasure. "If no one is confident they can win, then we're eliminated from this battle, and what overall strategy is there to speak of? I wish all of you had raised your hands to show your resolve; then I'd be reassured. But since you didn't, showing no determination to share the Evil Star Sect's burden, are you not going to allow others to show their stance?"
Although Han Shuang wasn't one hundred percent certain Jiang Chen and his nephew could win, seeing them raise their hands felt better than Elder Ge and Elder Xu's timidity.
The two elders were somewhat annoyed: "Fine, Sect Master. If you put it that way, we have nothing more to say. If we get eliminated later, don't blame us for not giving it our all."
"We won't be eliminated because of recklessness, only because our strength isn't sufficient," Jiang Chen said lightly. "On the arena, as long as your strength is enough, others can't do anything to you. Sect Master Han, are you confident you can take a round? My nephew and I are confident."
Seeing Jiang Chen's certainty, Han Shuang secretly felt delighted and smiled, "Confidence? Naturally, I have it. As long as you two secure your wins, I'll fight with everything I have to win mine. After all, I am the sect master! Someone has to set an example!"
Jiang Chen smiled. "Good. Then the Golden Talisman Sect is nothing to fear."
The discussion concluded. Elder Ge and Elder Xu were in very low spirits. They had no intention of holding back; they wanted to win too. But their strength was what it was, and facing the Golden Talisman Sect, they truly had no confidence, which was why they couldn't bring themselves to raise their hands. Their feelings were very complicated right now. They simultaneously hoped these two show-offs would meet with misfortune, yet also wanted them to win. It was the height of contradiction.
"Alright, the arena is ready. Evil Star Sect and Golden Talisman Sect, please send your chosen fighters to the stage for inspection," someone from the host organization announced.