No one had anticipated that the grand coalition would crumble so quickly in front of Xu Luo, as if they were mere paper tigers. Despite outnumbering Xu Luo's Zerg army several times over, their troops suffered significant casualties from trampling over each other.
Especially the Mountain Shaker bugs, which charged through the ranks with unstoppable force. At this stage, few freshmen possessed Silver-tier troops, and even fewer had them in substantial numbers.
"Is this your hidden strength?" Zhong Tianyue, observing the battle with a group of school officials, was deep in thought.
He wasn't surprised that Xu Luo could defeat his peers; after all, the boy had relentlessly targeted alien realms. Such actions required real skill. However, the extent of Xu Luo's hidden power was astonishing.
"I propose giving him a seed spot," Zhong Tianyue said, turning to the other officials.
This time, unlike before, the leaders did not immediately reject the idea. Even Zhao Yiming, who usually had objections, remained silent.
Seed spots were extremely valuable, with only three available per school every ten years. They were typically reserved for those with exceptional talent or as a result of careful political maneuvering.
But the leaders hesitated because they saw something promising in Xu Luo—a potential breakthrough in the city league, something Six Middle School hadn't achieved in years. Cultivating a talent like Xu Luo would bring rewards from the Ministry of Education, which was what truly concerned them.
Not only would they gain tangible benefits, but also accumulate valuable credentials and influence—assets far more precious than any temporary political gain.
"This young man, able to develop Silver-tier troops without significant backing, clearly has outstanding talent. I support giving him a seed spot," the discipline director stated.
"Agreed," the logistics director quickly added, swayed by the sight of Silver-tier troops.
With these three in agreement, Zhao Yiming had no choice but to concede, though he was inwardly displeased. He knew the stakes—supporting Xu Luo meant potential rewards from the Ministry of Education, while opposing it could mean alienating his peers.
Reluctantly, he nodded in agreement. The other officials, seeing no further objections, quickly followed suit.
"Good," Zhong Tianyue said. "Since we're all in agreement, I'll file the report once the test results are in."
Even though the school's leadership had unanimously agreed, the formal procedures still needed to be followed, though it would likely be a mere formality.
With the decision made, the battle on the field seemed less engaging. The disparity in strength was glaringly obvious—like adults bullying children.
"His current strength rivals that of second-year elite students. While they might have Silver-tier troops, the sheer number of his troops is impressive," the discipline director mused, curious about Xu Luo's potential and the unseen troops he had yet to deploy.
Second-year students had stronger individual troops, but they rarely increased their troop numbers significantly due to the resource drain. Only those pursuing an invasion strategy would amass large numbers.
"Maintaining so many troops indicates ambitious plans," Zhao Yiming sneered, implying Xu Luo intended to become an invader.
"And what of it?" the discipline director retorted. "Lacking resources means he must take them. Without a powerful backer, how else would he grow?"
Many in their younger days had resorted to similar strategies.
"Just hope he doesn't bite off more than he can chew and end up on the losing end," Zhao Yiming added dryly.
"Director Zhao, I know you have issues with Xu Luo, but remember your position. Holding a grudge against a student is beneath you," Zhong Tianyue said sternly. "Moreover, fortune can change. Today's underdog could be tomorrow's champion."
Zhao Yiming fell silent. Zhong Tianyue's words were a thinly veiled warning. Among the leadership, such rebukes were significant.
"He's not a seed yet," Zhao Yiming muttered.
"It seems Director Zhao is dissatisfied," Zhong Tianyue smiled faintly, not pressing the matter further.
However, he felt a pang of regret for pushing the seed nomination so quickly. He should have ensured Xu Luo was fully prepared before making such a move. Now, any resistance from the Xiang family would be a significant challenge.
But what's done was done. He would have to navigate the situation as it unfolded. If the Xiang family tried anything, he would be ready to fight back. His ambition to advance his career, having stagnated for so long, drove him to support Xu Luo's potential.
After years of waiting, he was desperate to train a student who could compete on the global stage. Even just participating would signify immense talent and bring prestige to their school.
Rising above the competition in Tianhai City's region alone would be a significant achievement. Training such a prodigious student would bolster Zhong Tianyue's case for reassignment to the front lines.
Having languished in obscurity for too long, he was determined not to let this opportunity slip away. The wealthy families had monopolized talented students for too long. Missing this chance meant potentially waiting years for another.
Thus, Zhong Tianyue was resolute. The Xiang family had better tread carefully, or they would face his full wrath. He would not let anyone obstruct his path to career advancement, especially when he saw such promise in Xu Luo.
The school's decision to support Xu Luo was a gamble on potential, a bet on a brighter future for Six Middle School. And Zhong Tianyue was determined to see it through.