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In the Stars Room, the atmosphere suddenly felt a bit tense.
Fang Li sat on the bed, his gaze fixed on Zhao Hufeng.
Zhao Hufeng, however, was frowning deeply, his eyes darting toward the covers behind Fang Li.
It seemed that this Senior Brother was starting to grow suspicious.
Seeing this, Fang Li felt a sinking feeling in his heart.
(I need to find a way to change the subject and distract Senior Brother...)
But what could possibly divert Zhao Hufeng's attention?
As he pondered this, an idea suddenly struck Fang Li.
"By the way, Senior Brother Zhao," he began, "I heard something interesting today about the 'Ereshkigal' from Rewolf Black Academy."
"'Ereshkigal'?" Zhao Hufeng finally turned his focus back to Fang Li.
"Exactly." Seizing the moment, Fang Li continued, "I heard that this 'Ereshkigal' might actually be able to rival Master. Is that true?"
"...That's hard to say." Zhao Hufeng's brow furrowed again, but he was now fully engaged. "That Strega has won the Lindwurm Festa championship for two consecutive years, which is quite impressive. Plus, her victories were in events like the individual battles. The outcomes of those events really reflect one's strength. Winning the Lindwurm Festa means you're the strongest in this city. And the fact that she's won it twice in a row speaks volumes about her power."
"Not to mention, there are already rumors circulating that the 'Ereshkigal' could easily win the third Lindwurm Festa, achieving an unprecedented three-peat," Zhao Hufeng added seriously. "So far, no one has ever managed to achieve a three-peat in the Lindwurm Festa. The only time a Grand Slam has been achieved was in the past."
Anyone can only participate in the Festa three times in their lifetime.
The Grand Slam refers to the honor of winning all the Festa events held every three years.
In other words, if someone can consecutively win the championships in the annual Phoenix Festa, Gryphon Festa, and Lindwurm Festa within three short years, they achieve the glory of the Grand Slam.
So far, only one person has accomplished this feat.
That is Fan Xinglou.
To be more precise, it refers to the second generation of Banyuu Tenra, which is Fan Xinglou before her reincarnation.
Aside from the second generation of Banyuu Tenra, no one has achieved the Grand Slam.
As for winning the Lindwurm Festa three times in a row, that has never happened either.
Thus, if the 'Ereshkigal' manages to achieve this honor, her title as the strongest Strega would be firmly established.
"People outside think she can be compared to Master for a reason," Zhao Hufeng said. "I once asked Master who would win in a fight between her and the 'Ereshkigal.'"
At this point, Fang Li was completely drawn in by Zhao Hufeng's words.
Not just Fang Li, even Sylvia, who was hiding under the covers, seemed to hold her breath and listen intently.
At this moment, Zhao Hufeng spoke with great seriousness.
"At that time, Master said this."
"—'That fake little girl's strength is also increasing day by day, so it's hard to say. If there are no restrictions, then I would win. But if it's limited to the Festa setting, then it's hard to say.'—"
"That was Master's exact words."
Zhao Hufeng's statement left Sylvia, still hidden under the covers, in silence.
As for Fang Li, he felt a wave of relief wash over him.
After all, Fan Xinglou's words conveyed one clear message.
That is, she would lose.
In other words, if it came down to a straightforward contest of strength, Fan Xinglou would likely still be above the Ereshkigal.
At least, that seems to be the case for now.
As long as this point is understood, it's enough.
"Thank you, Senior Brother Zhao," Fang Li said, "you've cleared up a doubt I had."
"It's nothing, really; no need to thank me." Zhao Hufeng shook his head, looking directly at Fang Li as he continued, "Junior Brother, you have innate talent, and Master has high hopes for you. She believes you are the closest to her strength. The performance Master showed you a few days ago indicates that she is very satisfied with you now. Who knows when she might feel compelled to have a match with you."
"I don't know what level your strength has reached, but since Master has shown that kind of interest, it proves that you are at least not much weaker than the current Master," Zhao Hufeng said earnestly. "Perhaps, in due time, you really could fulfill Master's wish to battle with an expert before First Senior Brother does."
At this point, Zhao Hufeng's tone carried a hint of reluctance.
As a disciple, this Senior Brother surely also hopes to meet the expectations of their esteemed teacher, right?
Unfortunately, no matter how you look at it, Fan Xinglou is a Monster Immortal who has lived for over a thousand years. Even if her body has become youthful due to reincarnation, making it impossible for her to match her peak period temporarily, she is not someone that an average person can rival just by wishing for it.
In Xue Zhan City, among the Six Great Academies, it's already quite rare to see a 'Ereshkigal' emerge.
"If it were the current you, perhaps it would indeed be possible to have a match with the Ereshkigal," Zhao Hufeng said. "At that time, be sure to take care of yourself."
"I understand, thank you for your concern, Senior Brother," Fang Li nodded and smiled, adding, "Next time, I'll help you get an autographed photo from Diva as a gift."
"Really… really?!" Zhao Hufeng's serious demeanor instantly shifted to excitement. Shortly after, he realized he had lost his composure and quickly coughed, trying to regain his calm as he said, "By the way, it seems you have some connection with Miss Sylvia. You can even get an autographed photo; could it be that you two are quite familiar?"
Seeing Zhao Hufeng clearly care while trying to act nonchalant made Fang Li unable to help but laugh and respond.
"No, I'm not that close to Miss Sylvia…"
Before he could finish, Fang Li abruptly fell silent.
The reason was that a hand had emerged from behind the covers and pinched him at the waist.
At that moment, Fang Li could only give a dry laugh and say, "In any case, I'll find a way to help you get it, Senior Brother."
Immediately, Zhao Hufeng appeared a bit embarrassed and said, "Well… then I'll leave it to you."
With that, Zhao Hufeng walked out of the Stars Room with a satisfied expression.
"Huh…"
Both Fang Li and Sylvia let out a sigh of relief at the same time.
(End Of The Chapter)