Even kids grow.

Ace's expression remained unreadable as he processed the rules.

"They're allowed to kill?" he asked.

Hua Hua nodded. "Yes, the Dragon and Phoenix Tournament is taken very seriously. Strength determines one's fate here."

The voice inside Ace's mind echoed.

So, will you be willing to sacrifice your disciples' lives for your greed?

Ace ignored it, his jaw tightening. "I need to speak with my disciples."

The Hua family members didn't stop him. They merely watched as he strode toward the preparation area.

"Mei'er! Yifeng!" he called, scanning the crowd.

For a moment, he couldn't find them. Then, he spotted the two chatting easily, as if they weren't moments away from stepping into a battlefield where death was a real possibility.

He exhaled sharply and approached. "There you two are."

Liu Mei tilted her head. "Is something wrong, Master?"