C249 (2)

Even those at the War God Level would surely carve out a bit of time to watch that video.

Once they've seen it, they'd definitely be aware of Chu Yi's capabilities.

"If you've watched the video, then you should be aware of my strength..."

Chu Yi, facing the bewildered prodigy, spoke with a hint of exasperation, "Even if you suspect foul play, believing that the Redmarsh City government fabricated the video to hype me up, claiming that I don't possess such formidable strength."

"Still, the power I've demonstrated isn't something that someone like you, who didn't even secure a spot in the assessment, should be challenging, right?"

Chu Yi was aware that since the release of the accessory, a segment of the population—

In fact, nearly everyone outside of Redmarsh City suspected there was something amiss with the video.

Of course, it wasn't that the video was doctored or concealed anything, but rather that the battle with the Demonic Beast seemed off.

All who had seen the video conceded that Chu Yi was incredibly strong, yet they refused to believe he had the power to slay a top-tier Demonic Beast.

The majority suspected that the Redmarsh City government had exaggerated Chu Yi's prowess, crafting the image of a peerless genius to stir up a frenzy and boost their campaign.

The truth was, while Chu Yi was indeed powerful, he was not to the extent portrayed!

Nevertheless, Chu Yi's strength was widely recognized.

But it certainly wasn't as overstated as in the video.

This is precisely why the demon from Fairmoor sought to draw Chu Yi out...

The Fairmoor demon's expression soured.

Chu Yi's words were an unmistakable jab at his unworthiness.

Yet...

Despite his reluctance, he had to concede.

Even if Chu Yi's strength in the video was greatly embellished, it was still beyond the reach of a demon who hadn't even earned a place in the assessment.

"So, you've been made a pawn..."

Chu Yi's gaze carried a tinge of sympathy.

"Consider the consequences of being used as a pawn. What will it cost you?"

"Should I retaliate and tarnish your reputation? But since you initiated this challenge, even here in Fairmoor territory, the locals must surely value fairness."

"You're clearly no match for me, so once I make my move, you'll be the one who ends up unlucky. You'll be severely wounded by me, and you'll likely have to compensate and apologize to me."

"And you? To say your reputation will be shattered might be putting it strongly, but at the very least, your family will want to avoid shame because of you. They might not cast you out, but you can forget about regaining your former status."

The look of pity in Chu Yi's eyes grew increasingly evident.

"Don't look at him. You're all the same, a bunch of fools."

"I've heard that families like yours value benefits above all else?"

"But if you think about it, what have you actually gained?"

"You took a risk for someone else, allowing them to gather the intelligence they needed. And what did you get in return?"

"Nothing. You might even have thrown away your entire lives."

"That's your reward!"

"Tell me, isn't it foolish to engage in such actions?"

At that moment, the prodigy from Fairmoor's face was beet red, and the expressions of the other top talents and prodigies around him were equally sour.

They weren't embarrassed by Chu Yi's words per se—they had already faced humiliation.

They were embarrassed because they found themselves unable to counter Chu Yi's argument!

Indeed, if they had proceeded as they had initially planned, the outcome would most likely have been just as Chu Yi described.

As Chu Yi pointed out, what had they achieved in the end?

Aside from earning a bad name and losing everything they had, what else had they gained?

Was it laughable?

Was it pitiful?

Was it idiotic?

Yes, that was exactly it!

Being used as a pawn was one thing, but what truly mattered was that they were risking everything they had.

In that moment, the geniuses and prodigies all turned their gaze in one direction.

They looked toward a spot where the young prodigies of Fairmoor were gathered.

All eyes eventually settled on one individual.

He was a young man with striking good looks.

Despite being the focus of everyone's attention, he remained utterly composed, even exuding an air of nonchalance.

With a gentle smile, he stepped forward and approached the group of prodigies.

His eyes sparkled with a bright smile, and his refined demeanor made it impossible for anyone to harbor any ill will towards him.

Compared to the other top-tier geniuses and prodigies present, the one who had just emerged seemed the very embodiment of a perfect scion of a noble family—poised, elegant, and without a single flaw to be found.

If ordinary folk were to witness this scene, they would never believe that the devious scoundrel Chu Yi had described could possibly be the same dashing gentleman before them.

But...

The attendees were no fools. Everyone who had made it here was astute, including the geniuses and prodigies Chu Yi had mockingly called idiots—they were certainly not fools.

The only regret was their youth and their tendency to be hot-headed.

Otherwise, why would they be the ones used as pawns and not someone else?

"Young Master Liang..."

Despite their inner rage, the elite geniuses and prodigies recognized the vast chasm that lay between themselves and Young Master Liang. His personal strength and talent, as well as the formidable power and influence he represented, were beyond their reach.

So, even with full awareness and clear understanding, these exceptional talents refrained from lashing out in anger or even uttering a word of protest.

Young Master Liang gestured dismissively and then turned to Chu Yi with a smile, "Truly worthy of being the heir to the foremost family. In both talent and strength, you stand out as a paragon among your peers."

"It's remarkable that just a few words from you could sow discord among us."

"Very impressive indeed!"

These were nothing more than pleasantries.

Everyone was well aware that the situation was exactly as Chu Yi had described.

It seemed that Young Master Liang was keen to gauge Chu Yi's capabilities without risking his own reputation or power. Thus, he cleverly incited these geniuses and prodigies to act as his pawns and test Chu Yi.

That was the plain truth, clearly understood by all in the hall.

Yet, they held their tongues.

After all, these were internal issues of Fairmoor City. To air them publicly would only serve to amuse the scions of other districts.

So, when Young Master Liang offered what was hardly an explanation, many feigned outrage while inwardly they applauded Young Master Liang's performance.

The crowd erupting in cheers were all from Fairmoor City.

Apart from them, the prodigies from various other regions sported enigmatic smiles.

They were acutely aware that Fairmoor was now awkwardly looking for a way out.

"Although Young Master Chu's strength appears quite formidable, it might still fall short when compared to your intellect."

"Of course, these are merely speculations. Whether they hold true..."

Suddenly, a glint of ice shot through Young Master Liang's otherwise amused gaze.

"Then I look forward to the opportunity to witness it firsthand!"

Despite his outward display of composure, the fury within him was unmistakable.

Being one of the elite scions of Fairmoor, his talents were nothing short of extraordinary. With the national exam and the ensuing war on the horizon, Young Master Liang had made significant sacrifices.

His efforts were not solely to gain entry into the war and access its spoils.

That was certainly a primary objective.

Beyond that, Young Master Liang harbored personal ambitions—to become the foremost leader among Fairmoor's youth.

His previous actions were all in service of building his own influence.

But now...

Chu Yi's remarks had all but dashed those hopes.

Rising to the top of the young elite was simple enough with the right power.

But to emerge as a true leader was a far greater challenge.

It required not just overwhelming strength, but also an impeccable reputation in all other respects.

Yet at present...

Had his shortcomings not been so publicly exposed, others might have speculated or come to understand them in time, but likely would have remained silent.