Elder Zhan continued, "Due to an unexpectedly high number of candidates this time, the process has taken a lot of time. However, let's proceed with the selection phase without delay."
With a firm stomp of his foot at the arena's center, the dividing formation vanished.
"All qualified candidates, please come down and form a line around the arena. One-star mages on the left and two-star mages on the right," instructed Elder Zhan.
Without hesitation, the candidates encircled the arena, with nearly twice as many on the left side as on the right.
"The envoys from each academy will now select the disciples who have caught their eye. If chosen by an envoy, you are free to accept or decline their invitation without consequences. The recruiters will consider those who remain," Elder Zhan announced, creating a palpable sense of anticipation.
