2757 Test Method
The North Wangda Forest and Wangchuan Sea served as natural barriers, separating the Three Provinces from one another.
Regardless of whether one approached from the side of the Ultramarine Province or the royal capital of the Divine Province, they had to traverse a portion of the forest; no one was exempt.
Meanwhile, Mo Lian, Qiao Mu, and their companions had stowed away their Scarlet Sky Breakers long ago. Now, they sat in a corner of the forest, indulging in a barbecue.
The North Wangda Forest was teeming with abundant resources, and food was scattered all around. Little Fatty and the group managed to capture several pheasants haphazardly, roasting them to perfection. After a sprinkle of salt, they each took a succulent bite, relishing the freshness and juiciness.
Their days were characterized by leisure.
"I've heard that the Imperial Academy's test isn't particularly challenging," remarked Little Fatty, gnawing on a drumstick as he grinned. "It appears that we just need to step forward and be tested on our five elemental spirits and elemental spirits."
"As long as you possess an invitation letter and your five elemental spirit and elemental spirits are grade-six or above, you're virtually guaranteed acceptance," he added, beaming with confidence.
His words prompted exchanged glances among the group.
Unable to contain her curiosity, Lu Yu inquired, "So, does that mean we're certain to pass the test?"
Little Fatty nodded, his grin unwavering.
"You certainly aren't short on asking around," Qi Xuanxuan interjected with a chuckle. "You've barely stepped out since our return, yet you've already gathered all this information."
"Of course," mumbled Little Fatty, savoring the crispy chicken. "Understanding both oneself and the adversary ensures victory."
Qi Xuanxuan's small head bobbed in agreement. "That reassures me then."
Having accepted the invitation letter in such a high-profile manner, she was determined not to falter during the advanced-stage examination.
/While tarnishing their reputation was acceptable, her primary focus was tarnishing Qiaoqiao's standing. She wouldn't tolerate anything less./
The gossipy individuals in the capital would seize any opportunity to mock them.
As they engaged in conversation in the standard class, a sound of shuffling footsteps emerged from the forest's edge.
Before too long, an approaching figure became visible through the dense foliage, making its way along a small path.
The group that appeared consisted of around a hundred people. Leading them was a tall, captivating woman with slender, alluring eyes that observantly swept across the faces of those present.
Behind her trailed a burly man, nearly two meters in height. With robust arms bared due to the early spring weather, his muscles bulged like miniature hills on his arms.
Clearly, they hadn't anticipated stumbling upon a small team barbecuing in this remote location. The woman and her companions seemed taken aback.
After a moment, the woman's gaze assessed Qiao Mu and Mo Lian. Opting against confrontation, she guided her group to an open space nearby.
Their prolonged residence within the Beiwang Great Forest had rendered them intimately acquainted with their surroundings.
Swiftly, they divided into subgroups and set to work—erecting tents, hunting beasts, gathering branches, and preparing animal innards. Their efficiency was impressive, and within half an hour, they organized into ten smaller units, relaxing and dining.
Qi Xuanxuan and her comrades observed the hundred-person team with evident curiosity.
Perceiving their lack of interest in interfering or causing trouble, and noting their overall non-interference, the group continued relishing their barbecue while engaging in hushed conversation.
Upon Her Excellency Lady Qiaoqiao activating her "Silence Mode," Qi Xuanxuan's group subsided into silence as well. Following their barbecue, they assembled a makeshift pot over a fire, utilizing available ingredients to concoct mushroom soup on the spot.
Before long, an enticing aroma emanated from the small pot, teasing the senses.
Each person picked up a bowl and ladled out a modest serving of soup before quietly sipping from it.
Judging by appearances, the individuals stationed at the adjacent clearing seemed to comprise a company of seasoned mercenaries.
Although they commenced their meal later than Qiao Mu's group, their consumption pace was nothing short of lightning-fast.
