Heiress Unmasked: Shaking the World With Geomancy novel Chapter 1218

Shannon's words made sense, and Skylar nodded along. "Indeed."

Their words dampened Mike's bubbling excitement. His heart sank.

As they were talking, the deans arrived, accompanied by Draco Jetsmoke leading Team Demon. Once seated, Baxter signaled the four teams to take the stage and announced the results of the final round of the tournament.

As always, it was Valentino who spoke as a representative. "This third round was less a competition and more a rare test of character for mystic arts students.

"After reviewing your performances, I can confidently say that you've shown us, the older generation, the future of mystic arts.

"This is especially the case for Team Seastone, who ventured into the heart of the Decaybringer Array. Your selflessness and perseverance are keys to avoiding a greater catastrophe.

"You have upheld the righteousness that mystic masters strive for, and we're all incredibly proud of you."

Valentino's words triggered a wave of thunderous applause across the venue. Team Northgate, Team Jamborough, and Team Demon joined in, but some demons clapped reluctantly.

Some seemed unaware of the situation but joined in because everyone else was doing so.

Surrounded by the applause, Mike and the others were overwhelmed with recognition.

But before they could bask in the joy, Elias stepped forward and raised a hand to quiet the applause.

When the crowd settled, he continued where Valentino had left off, though there was a shift in his tone, "But a competition must adhere to its rules."

He glanced at Shannon's team and said, "According to the rules, your mission was to assist the Security Agency in retrieving the missing corpses.

"In the third round, the other three teams successfully located and recovered corpses at three other points outside the Decaybringer Array.

"While Team Seastone's contributions are undeniable, the results of the round can't be ignored. According to the rules, your mission was a failure, and no points can be awarded."

Elias' announcement left the crowd stunned. Then, there was an eruption of protests.