Li Hao retracted his gaze, concentrating on the chessboard, his mind once again immersed, oblivious to external perceptions.
He pondered deeply, while Elder Wang waited for Li Hao to make a move. He watched the young man before him with interest, noticing that he wasn't feigning calmness, but genuinely unhurried. Elder Wang smiled faintly; though engaging with Li Hao had caused some delay, he realized that the other Saints' aptitude would not yield significant progress in a short time. When Li Hao's enthusiasm waned, he would pick an appropriate time to have Li Hao practice earnestly.
Among all the contenders, the boy before him was the one he prized most. Though he couldn't provide him with hints or special treatment, he would at least urge him to cultivate.
By the meditation mats, many were silently calculating the time of Ming Saint's challenge.
Soon, Ming Saint emerged from the True Venerate Tower.
