Chapter 369: Discussing the Hot Contenders
Xiao Ze paid no attention to the small discussions below and continued speaking.
"Alchemists have traveled far and wide to participate in this Pill Meeting. I won't take up too much of your time. Let me briefly explain the rules.
"The basic requirement to participate in the Pill Meeting is to be a fifth-rank alchemist. After that, there are three stages.
"The first stage is the Illusion Barrier. Mist will obstruct your soul perception, and the space within will be layered. You must navigate through it within the allotted time!
"Passing the Illusion Barrier grants you access to the Pill Realm, a space created by our Dou Saint experts. It contains numerous heavenly materials and earthly treasures.
"Participants must find the specified medicinal ingredients within the Pill Realm and exchange them for space stones at the exit to leave the Pill Realm and reach this plaza.
"Here, on this grand stage, alchemists will showcase their skills. Those who stand out will compete for the championship of this Pill Meeting!
"The champion will become a candidate for the Pill Tower leadership. Additionally, they will receive an ancient soul cultivation technique that can strengthen the soul, making it possible to achieve eighth-rank or even ninth-rank alchemy."
As Xiao Ze's voice fell, countless alchemists' breaths quickened. Eighth-rank! Ninth-rank! These were legendary existences, far beyond the reach of most present. But the rewards offered by the Pill Tower could bridge that vast gap, giving them a chance to become eighth or ninth-rank alchemists. This was an extreme temptation for countless alchemists.
Seeing the eager expressions of the alchemists, Xiao Ze smiled slightly.
"It seems everyone is eagerly anticipating the competition," he said, glancing at the sky. With a wave of his sleeve, an invisible wave spread out, striking the void and producing a melodious bell chime.
"The time has come. All alchemists of fifth rank and above, prepare to enter the Illusion Barrier. The Pill Meeting begins now!"
As Xiao Ze's words fell, countless alchemists surged towards the dark gray Illusion Barrier like a swarm of locusts.
Xiao Yan, having witnessed Xiao Ze's performance, couldn't help but sigh, "Fourth brother can now host the Pill Meeting, while I am just participating for the first time."
"Haha, don't worry too much. Perhaps you can win this Pill Meeting, become a candidate for the Pill Tower leadership, and even compete for the position of Pill Tower President," Yao Lao said.
Xiao Yan smiled bitterly. "Better not. Fourth brother is already the Vice President and is certain to become a Pill Tower leader. Even if I become a candidate, I might not be able to compete with him."
"Xiao Yan, don't limit your thinking. The Pill Tower has three leaders. If you become one along with him, it would be a significant achievement," Yao Lao encouraged.
Xiao Yan, intrigued by the idea, nodded. He shook his head, bid farewell to Tian Huo Zun Zhe, and joined the crowd entering the Illusion Barrier.
Xiao Ze glanced at Xiao Yan's location. He had noticed Xiao Yan for a while but respected his choice not to approach. Watching the participants enter the Illusion Barrier, Xiao Ze turned to the three presidents.
"Presidents, I have completed the task."
Xuankongzi and the others smiled and nodded, satisfied with Xiao Ze's performance. He had hosted the event without any nervousness, displaying a unique composure and confidence, unlike someone hosting a large event for the first time.
"Xiao Ze, you handled this very calmly," Xuanyi remarked, surprised. She had expected to see some nerves.
"President Xuanyi, did you forget? I established the Heavenly Alliance in the Northwest Continent and temporarily led it. This scene doesn't make me nervous," Xiao Ze explained, smiling. He had gained much experience while leading the Heavenly Alliance.
The three presidents exchanged glances, and Xuankongzi laughed. "I still find it hard to believe you managed to form such a large alliance."
"It was a combination of timing and circumstances. It started as a way to eliminate evil cultivators," Xiao Ze replied. He chatted casually with the three presidents and occasionally with other high-ranking Pill Tower members, maintaining a relaxed demeanor.
However, the participants were not so relaxed. The Illusion Barrier was indeed challenging, trapping most of the unqualified participants.
On the high platform, the Pill Tower leaders inevitably discussed the contestants.
"Vice President Xiao Ze, do you have any favorites for this Pill Meeting?" an elder suddenly asked, drawing everyone's attention.
"This Pill Meeting has attracted many veteran alchemists because of the Three Thousand Burning Flame, but the standout among them is Old Monster Qinghua," Xiao Ze said after some thought. "I'm more optimistic about some younger alchemists, though. After all, the younger generation will surpass the old."
The high-ranking members smiled, understanding Xiao Ze's perspective as a young alchemist himself.
"Which ones do you favor?" another elder asked.
"If I had to choose, I'd say Cao Ying from the Cao family. As President Xuankongzi's disciple, she has outstanding talent and should easily make the top five. With effort, she might even refine an eighth-rank pill," Xiao Ze said.
The elders were surprised but nodded in agreement after considering his evaluation.
"Then there's Dan Chen from the Dan family. Though well-protected by her family, I've interacted with her and found her talent on par with Cao Ying's. She has an even greater passion for alchemy, though her weaker physique holds her back. She should be on par with Cao Ying."
President Xuankongzi nodded. "Dan Chen's talent is indeed exceptional. Her dedication to alchemy is remarkable. It's not surprising she's compared to Cao Ying."
With Xuankongzi's endorsement, the other elders agreed, impressed by Xiao Ze's keen insight.
"And the last one…" Xiao Ze paused, seeing the curious looks of the elders. He smiled and continued, "It's my third brother, Xiao Yan. I'm sure the presidents know who his teacher is."
The three presidents had mixed reactions but nodded in agreement. The other elders, however, were puzzled. Xiao Ze's cryptic comment piqued their interest in Xiao Yan's performance.
Thanks to Xiao Ze, their curiosity about Xiao Yan's potential at the Pill Meeting grew even stronger.
(End of chapter)
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