Charlie Zhangs clear, determined voice fell like a stone into a pond, silencing the chatter. All eyes turned to the small but fiery figure; many onlookers were taken aback.
This was, after all, the prestigious Sword Forging Competition hosted by an elite faction! Representatives from all six major factions—aside from the reclusive Shushan Sword Sect—were present. Most forgemasters participating in the event barely dared to speak, yet here was an independent cultivator questioning the results outright.
It was well-known that although Ray Xu of the Langya Sword Sect had announced the results, the evaluation had been conducted by four Semi-Divine Forgemasters working together. Even those who privately felt the results seemed unjust would hardly dare to openly challenge the verdict. By questioning it so openly, Charlie was essentially showing disregard for the judgment of the four Semi-Divine Forgemasters.
Many glanced up at the high stage, where Felix Xu, Quentin Zhang, Master Lian Xing, and Vivian Ning sat, each a highly revered figure.
"I think I see whats happening."
"That first-place winner, Ray Xu… isnt he related to Felix Xu?"
"This competition was organized by the Langya Sword Sect, and Felix Xu oversees it. He's crafted three Semi-Divine artifacts—of course, hes going to influence the results!"
"Poor Charlie, she probably doesn't know any of this."
A few in-the-know forgemasters exchanged knowing looks, eyes flickering between the beaming Ray Xu and his stoic great-uncle Felix Xu seated above.
A blatant conspiracy!
The whole event reeked of favoritism! Ray Xu's first-place award clearly wasn't won solely on merit.
"The Langya Sword Sect has always been known for its favoritism and heavy-handed ways."
"No surprise here, I suppose," another forgemaster thought bitterly, silently pitying Charlie. Had this event been hosted by the famed Swordmaking House of Shushan, renowned for its fairness, an independent forgemaster like Charlie might have stood a real chance. But the Langya Sword Sect…
Everyone could predict that this wouldn't end well for her.
Predictably, the four Semi-Divine Forgemasters on the platform wore displeased expressions at Charlie's defiance.
"Felix, young people these days are becoming rather overconfident," the white-haired Master Lian Xing remarked coolly, his tone carrying a faint trace of disdain.
Felix Xu nodded slightly in agreement, his tone dismissive. "Confidence is fine, but theres a line between self-assurance and arrogance."
"Quite right, Master," Quentin Zhang, a muscular man with a dark complexion, added with a cold chuckle. "Allow me to address her doubts, to put this matter to rest."
"By all means," Felix responded, casting an indifferent glance at the murmuring crowd below.
Quentin Zhang floated above Charlie, looking down with an air of superiority. "Young lady, although your Semi-Divine sword embryo is commendable, it's ultimately unrealistic."
He gestured towards the forging platform where Charlie's crimson sword lay. The blade gleamed faintly with starlight, its runes shimmering like constellations, exuding an aura of the extraordinary—evidence of a well-forged Semi-Divine embryo.
"This sword embryo is worthless; it will never become a true Semi-Divine artifact," Quentin declared confidently, as if his judgment were absolute.
A hush fell over the crowd.
Even Jason Chu, listening in silence, raised an eyebrow, his expression reflecting mild incredulity.
He had been quietly observing, curious as to how the Semi-Divine Forgemasters would attempt to rationalize the outcome. This, however, was a blatantly absurd response.
Are you kidding me?
With Jason's mastery in sword forging, he could easily tell that Charlie's sword embryo was, in fact, highly promising. With enough resources, she could likely finish it into a sword that might even rival lesser Divine artifacts.
But to call it "worthless"?
Even if they were dismissing her claims, this was just lazy.
Jason shook his head in silent disbelief.
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