"A grand competition is held in the kingdom every year. Although the Sky Lord Empire has conquered the Lindao Kingdom, they have made it a vassal state, so some traditions are still preserved."
Although Mulo's words seemed to carry the weight of truth, Xan still held a lingering suspicion toward him. Xan Li Fang had not even finished his first day in this new world; he was not yet tired of living.
"Sorry... but I have other things to do, maybe next time."
Xan wanted to leave the village quickly and find a nearby academy. Perhaps there, he could find a way to reach the Supreme Continent. After all, Xan Li Fang believed that the only way to return home lay in that higher realm.
"Mr. Wang, I know what you want," Mulo pressed, sensing his hesitation. "If you win this competition, you can gain the opportunity to enter not only the Lindao Royal Academy but also the Sky Lord Palace Magical University. As far as I know, the winner receives a precious treasure, the chance to choose an academy, and most importantly, a Royal Wish from the Kingdom. I am asking you to use that wish for us..."
This statement gave Xan pause. He sank into silence for several minutes.
"Okay, fine, I promise," Xan finally said. "So, when do we leave?"
"The competition begins in two weeks. We will set out tomorrow morning."
"It is very cold today, isn't it, Mr. Wang?"
The two companions made their way through the forest, heading toward the capital of Lindao. Although the forest was vast, there had to be a teleportation array nearby. Otherwise, covering such a huge distance on foot would make them late for the competition.
"There is a teleportation array five kilometers away. Through it, we can reach the capital city of Lindao."
Because the surroundings were blanketed in snow, there was nothing to see but endless white. Mulo held a device that looked like a compass, which helped him determine the correct direction. Although the distance was short, due to the thickness of the snow, Xan and Mulo walked for about four hours.
"Mr. Wang, this is the teleportation array."
Xan immediately began to analyze it in his mind.
"It looks like a formation that isn't too difficult. If I can understand the core image, I could create a teleportation array formation myself."
They approached the formation. It was constructed of stone, and on its four corners, the images of four magical beasts were sealed.
"As I understand it, for the formation to activate, four magical beast stones or four Beast Masters are required," Xan observed.
"I admire your intellect, Mr. Wang. You knew it at a single glance... Don't worry about the rest. Four Beast Masters... The expenses are on my neck."
As they were conversing, strangers began to gather around the formation. Since this was the only teleportation array in the north, there was no other shortcut.
"Dog Mulo, you are still alive? Just leave, I can spare your life."
The speaker was a stranger, aged between 55 and 60, with white hair and a beard, dressed in a black robe mixed with red. He stared directly at Mulo with contempt.
"Sorry for disappointing you," Mulo retorted.
Xan knew he had to solve Mulo's problem; otherwise, these people would cause trouble for their journey.
"Old thing, do your business..." Xan stepped forward, his voice cold.