Through the teleportation circle, Oli and the team reappeared in Permafrost Palace. They were welcomed by palace staff and offered an escort to their assigned rooms, which Zelsh turned down without batting an eye.
Zelsh then led his candidates back into the city and through the crowded streets. There, Oli and the others noticed something new. Flyers and banners were posted all over Avalanche City declaring a contest leading up to the exhibition. When he saw that, Oli sighed and glared at Zelsh.
'Don't look at me like that, Oli,' Zelsh laughed telepathically. 'To enter that you need the recommendation of either a peak-perennial or a king. And I'm not allowed to recommend anyone due to my position. Only independent cultivators and non-regional kings can submit their pupils for the contest. And they're only fighting for one of Jeerda's four wildcard slots.'
Hearing it explained, Oli relaxed again. 'Sorry for glaring at you…'
