Class Zero Established

In the quiet aftermath of arranging his alchemy tools, Anping closed his suitcase with a satisfied smile. With the day's tasks completed, hunger tugged at him, prompting a decision to head for dinner.

The academy cafeteria greeted him, and coincidentally, Gu Yuena crossed his path. A friendly greeting exchanged, they proceeded to collect their meals.

Nonchalantly finding a spot for her plate, Gu Yuena locked eyes with Anping, inquiring, "It's been a week. Is your endeavor accomplished?"

Anping nodded confidently, sipping porridge. "Indeed, it's done. What kind of soul guide are you seeking? Auxiliary, attack, or defense type?"

After a brief contemplation, Gu Yuena's lips curved into a smile. "I want a good-looking one. If it doesn't meet my standards, it doesn't count."

Caught off guard, Anping choked on his porridge, eliciting a soft pat on the back from Gu Yuena. "Be careful when you eat," she advised with a wordless smile.

Recovering, Anping shifted the conversation, "What about the type? Weapons, jewelry, clothing?"

Amused, Gu Yuena replied, "You decide; just make sure it looks good."

Anping accepted the challenge with a nod. "Alright, I'll think about it."

Teasingly, Gu Yuena remarked, "I'll be waiting."

Interrupting their banter, a campus announcement echoed. "Teachers and students, please pay attention. The promotion competition has officially concluded. Outstanding classes and students will be commended in the playground tomorrow morning. Classes are canceled, and head teachers are to organize their students."

Back in the dormitory after their meal, Anping delved into meditation. Carving magic patterns had drained not only his energy but also his magical power.

The following day arrived swiftly. Under Wu Zhangkong's guidance, the students gathered on the makeshift arena. Dean Yu Zhen stood at the center, and soon, all the intermediate department students assembled.

Long Hengxu took the stage, acknowledging the dean before addressing the students. "Your hard work is recognized by the college, and you will not be treated lightly."

The dean concluded his remarks, leaving the floor to Long Hengxu. "We're here for two announcements. Firstly, the new first-grade class excelled in the promotion competition. As a reward, all students in the class will receive one free meal daily for a semester."

A wave of excitement and envy rippled through the crowd, especially among those who couldn't afford the extra expense. The first-grade class basked in cheers, appreciating the unexpected boon.

Ye Yingluo, now the class teacher for both Grade 1 and Grade 2, found herself in an uncomfortable position. As the students she led cast resentful glances toward their counterparts in Grade 1, a sense of unease settled over her.

"Quiet!" Long Hengxu's authoritative scolding cut through the murmurs, restoring silence below.

Long Hengxu continued, "The second announcement is that due to the outstanding performance of this year's first-year students, the Board of Directors has decided to establish a special class for them – Grade Zero, with Wu Zhangkong as the class teacher."

He turned his gaze to Wu Zhangkong, remarking, "Selected from those who excelled in the promotion competition, the members of Class 0 include Anping, Gu Yuena, Xie Xie, and Tang Wulin from Class 1, Grade 1, and Wei Xiaofeng, Zhang Yangzi, Wang Jinxi from Class 2, Grade 1."

The revelation left the students in a stunned silence, their expressions conveying a mix of shock and disbelief. This unprecedented move in the history of Eastsea Academy had disrupted the expected class dynamics.

In the aftermath, the three students from Class 2 stared in disbelief at the four from Class 1. The unexpected alignment brought a palpable awkwardness into the air.

Long Hengxu allowed a moment for the news to settle, then signaled for quiet. Turning to the dean, he inquired in a hushed tone, "Dean, would you like to say a few words?"

Dean Yu Zhen, addressing the assembled students, declared, "I understand your curiosity about the significance of establishing Class 0 for the first grade. Many of you witnessed the promotion competition, recognizing the exceptional abilities of the selected students. To nurture these talents effectively, a new class was created. However, don't be disheartened. The academy values all its students. Work hard, showcase your talents, and more opportunities will come. We hope to see more joining Class Zero."

Addressing the senior students, he added, "Seniors, don't think the academy overlooks you. Demonstrating outstanding talents could lead to the establishment of similar classes for second and third grades."

"Okay, let's disperse. Teacher Wu and the selected students for Class 0, Grade 1, please stay."

As envy-laden students retreated to their classrooms, the dean, Wu Zhangkong, and the chosen students of Class Zero remained on the playground.

"Children, gather around," Yu Zhen beckoned. Despite the unsaid tension on the faces of Xie Xie and Wei Xiaofeng, they dared not confront the situation in front of the dean.

Witnessing the disharmony among the students, Yu Zhen's anger simmered as he spoke sternly, "I don't care about your past conflicts. Now that you share the same class, I expect you to set aside those unnecessary disputes and focus on unity. Pride in your talents should not hinder your cooperation in the days ahead."

"Harboring baseless animosity won't aid your cultivation progress; it will only burden you needlessly. Don't assume your genius status is unparalleled; countless talents exist across the entire alliance. To be strong, geniuses and students alike must put in unimaginable efforts. I hope you exceed your previous efforts and meet the school's expectations."

The cold edge in Yu Zhen's tone softened, "You're still young; most of the time, you act on impulse. As you grow, you'll realize how trivial these conflicts are. We're classmates, and any issues can be resolved. Do you all understand?"

"I know," several voices chimed in unison.

"Sign this agreement." Yu Zhen produced five agreements, handing them to each individual.

Anping, after a casual glance, signed without hesitation. Gu Yuena, trusting Anping's judgment, followed suit without inspecting the document.

Xie Xie queried in a low voice, "Dean, should I discuss this agreement with my family before signing?"

"Discuss it if you must. However, if you choose not to join Class Zero, I won't wait for you to handle these matters," Yu Zhen replied briskly.

Eyeing Anping, Gu Yuena, and Tang Wulin, who were already signing, Xie Xie hesitated briefly before adding his signature.

Wang Jinxi and Zhang Yangzi, observing their peers, decided to sign once they saw Anping and others on board. In the end, Wei Xiaofeng remained the sole holdout, hesitant to join Class Zero.