The tension from the confrontation with Vikram spread quickly throughout the academy.
By the next morning, nearly every first-year student had heard some version of the story.
Some said Krishak had challenged Vikram.
Others claimed Vikram had nearly attacked him.
A few even exaggerated that Instructor Dev had personally warned the Rathore family.
Krishak ignored the rumors.
He had more important matters to focus on.
During homeroom, Instructor Dev entered the classroom with a stack of documents.
Without preamble, he wrote two words on the board:
Ranking Test
The room immediately became silent.
Dev turned to face the class.
"In three days, all new students will undergo their first comprehensive evaluation."
He continued:
"The results will determine your initial ranking within the academy.
"Your ranking will affect your monthly resources, dormitory priority, and access to advanced facilities."
Instructor Dev explained the three sections of the examination.
1. Physical Assessment
Students would be tested on:
Strength
Speed
Endurance
Reaction time
2. Cultivation Measurement
The academy would evaluate each student's current realm and the quality of their spiritual energy.
3. Combat Trial
Students would fight either one another or specially designed training constructs
Dev's expression grew stern.
"Your ranking will be based on overall performance, not just raw power."
During the lunch break, Vikram made a point of speaking loudly near Krishak.
"Some people rely on flashy talent tests."
He smirked.
"But real rankings are earned."
His followers laughed obediently.
Krishak remained focused on his meal.
Vikram's provocations no longer interested him.
That evening, Krishak reviewed his condition.
• Age: 6 years old
Cultivation Realm: Peak Great Martial Warrior
Actual Combat Power: Early to Mid Grandmaster
Earth Equivalent: Peak B-Rank to Early A-Rank
Talent: Highest Grade
Although his cultivation was already extraordinary, he intended to conceal part of his true ability.
There was no need to reveal everything.
His goal was to perform well enough to secure top resources while avoiding unnecessary attention.
As Krishak meditated, memories from his clone flowed into his mind.
Rohan, Meera, Arun, and the others were progressing steadily.
Their bodies had become stronger, and their discipline was improving.
The foundation of his future academy was quietly taking shape.
Krishak smiled faintly.
His plans were advancing on multiple fronts.
Three days later, the first-year students gathered at the academy stadium.
Thousands filled the stands.
Large monitors displayed rankings and scores in real time.
Principal Rao and numerous instructors watched from a raised platform.
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and tension.
Rohan adjusted his uniform nervously.
"My heart is pounding.
Krishak glanced at him.
"That's normal."
Students took turns demonstrating their strength, speed, and endurance.
Several produced impressive results.
Vikram performed exceptionally well, earning loud applause.
When Krishak's turn came, many spectators leaned forward.
He intentionally held back, but even his restrained performance placed him near the top of every category.
The instructors exchanged meaningful looks.
His control and efficiency were remarkable.
Krishak stepped into the measuring array.
The crystal sphere glowed brightly.
A clear result appeared:
Peak Great Martial Warrior
Murmurs spread through the audience.
For a six-year-old, this was unprecedented.
Vikram's expression stiffened.
As the first round of combat pairings appeared on the screen, Rohan swallowed hard.
Vikram smirked confidently.
Krishak's eyes remained calm.
The true competition was about to begin.
And for the first time, the academy would witness what the so-called child prodigy was truly capable of.