Chapter 19: Ch19: The real danger
The day passed uneventfully at the academy. Students spent their time practicing their techniques in the training grounds and attending lectures on history and various branches of knowledge.
Most still hadn’t succeeded in performing their techniques—not yet. Only the elite few had managed any progress: the current top five students, and surprisingly, Bai Kuhi. His unexpected breakthrough allowed him to surpass several others ranked above him, drawing attention from both peers and instructors alike.
On his way home, Mo Bai wasn’t thinking about the trials awaiting him. His thoughts were focused elsewhere—on a different kind of threat.
"As expected, Bai Kuhi is highly talented," Mo Bai thought, his gaze distant. "He was the third to grasp his technique—after me and Bai Kin. But in truth, he’s faster. He even mastered a second-tier technique, unlike me. That’s where his real talent shines: in understanding. I have to eliminate this threat soon."
There was a faint unease buried deep in Mo Bai’s chest—something instinctive. It wasn’t just recognition of a peer. No, this was the first time he had truly acknowledged someone as a genuine rival. Not even Yi Kang, whose innate talent surpassed Bai Kuhi’s, had sparked this level of concern in him.
"Talent isn’t everything," he continued mentally. "Wits matter. And Bai Kuhi’s intellect is razor-sharp. I’m sure of it. We’ve barely interacted, yet his knowing gaze always seems to pierce right through me. Even if Yi Kang and Mo Fan are technically more talented, I’d still rather face them both together than deal with Bai Kuhi alone. One’s naive and a fool, the other’s an arrogant brat who’s yet to be tempered. Neither is a true threat—not yet."
Lost in thought, Mo Bai had already arrived home. His eyes gleamed with calm resolve as he knocked on the door.
"Since Father explained it that way yesterday," he mused, "he must have something challenging in store. I can’t afford to underestimate whoever I face. He thinks I’ve grown arrogant from my recent achievements, but he’s wrong. This is just confidence. When it comes to real battles, I’ve learned not to let my guard down—not even against someone ordinary."
His thoughts were cut short as the maid opened the door, allowing him to step inside.