Chapter 117: The Ranking Tournament Begins

Central City Academy's square was bustling with excitement. The biannual ranking tournament was upon them. Amongst the chatter, Feng Xuan, Lisa, and Zephyr waited with bated breath. "Any word from Li Yang?" Zephyr inquired anxiously.

"I sent him the information, but he hasn't replied," Feng Xuan responded, his voice tinged with worry.

Lisa, wringing her hands, asked, "You don't think something happened to him, do you?"

"That lad is cunning and smart. He'll be fine," Feng Xuan assured.

As they spoke, a massive clock overlooking the square showed they had an hour left. "If he doesn't make it in time, he won't be able to compete," Zephyr remarked with a hint of sadness.

Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Edward and Grandmaster Yuan. Exchanging pleasantries with Zephyr, Edward's exasperation became apparent. "This disciple of mine, just a couple of days under my wing, and he's gone missing for half a year! Where on earth did he wander off to?"

Grandmaster Yuan, shaking his head in disapproval, said, "Always such a handful. As an alchemist, he doesn't need to compete, but the academy assigned him a task, which I ended up completing for him. Truly bothersome." With a collective sigh, the group shook their heads, sharing the burden of their missing friend.

Suddenly, the rhythmic beating of a ceremonial drum resonated throughout the square. All eyes turned towards the stage as Principal Mr. Henry, Vice-Principal Mr. Harry, and the Five Great Instructors made their entrance.

Mr. Henry stepped forward, his voice echoing across the vast open space, "Students, the time has come again to prove your mettle. This is your moment to showcase the power and skills you've honed over the past six months. Those who make it to the top 100 will receive recognition, and the top 10 will be bathed in glory. Do your best!" As he finished, a wave of fervor washed over the students, their determination palpable.

Mr. Harry gestured towards the elevated seating area. "Look over there. That's where the current top 100 ranked students sit. Whether you get to join them or not is in your hands." All eyes turned to the elevated seats, the top 10 shrouded in mysterious shadows, concealing their identities.

Fred, one of the Five Great Instructors, stepped up, "The competition will be divided into three phases: Strength, Speed, and Element. Your performance and time in each phase will be combined, with the shortest total time determining the ranking. The top 10 can challenge any of the current top 100 students for their position in a one-on-one battle. Understand?"

The students responded in unison, "Understood!"

As anticipation mounted, many wondered about Li Yang's whereabouts. Would he make a surprise appearance? Or would they have to proceed without him?