The conversation between the two came to a temporary end. Lu Ce subtly took out a dice and began rolling it gently where no one could see. This was an unconventional form of "divination."
Meanwhile on the podium, Zhao Jiacheng continued his moral education lecture. Though it was clear most students weren't paying attention, he remained happy to continue. Perhaps the work he was doing now might bear fruit at some point in the future.
"No matter what choices everyone makes now, it doesn't really matter since we're not at the stage where we truly need to make decisions yet. I just hope that if the day comes when you must choose, you'll do so with kindness in your hearts."
"Our biggest negative example right now is the Tiandihui."
Hearing mention of the Tiandihui, Lu Ce paid slightly more attention, having already clashed with their leader. This organization had considerable presence - aside from official groups, they were the most prominent organization within China.
Moreover, their leader "Sun" didn't seem like someone skilled at management at all, likely having risen to leadership purely through strength. This made the Tiandihui seem more like a slapdash operation that had grown wildly through early advantages in the game, accepting anyone without discrimination.
Knowing the world's structure would inevitably change, they didn't seem to care about official institutions, focusing only on expanding their own power first. They gave off the vibe of bandits taking advantage of chaotic times.
This impression wasn't unique to Lu Ce - official organizations had long since formed similar conclusions, which was why Zhao Jiacheng clearly disliked the Tiandihui.
He continued lecturing: "The Tiandihui represents the clearest example of an organization that's lost its humanity due to suddenly acquired power. In their pursuit of expansion and greater strength, they've abandoned all restraint. They've become lost within the game - it's no longer them playing the game, but the game controlling them."
"Moreover, the Tiandihui's recent actions have gone too far. Since the game's appearance, 40% of all violent incidents involving superpowered individuals in our country have been connected to the Tiandihui! Many of those responsible are now in prison."
"This ratio is terrifying. Let me be blunt - if any of you gain power and join organizations like the Tiandihui to commit atrocities... next time we meet, it might be as enemies on the battlefield."
Many students, unused to such serious talk, grew nervous. One suddenly asked: "Excuse me, has the Tiandihui been officially designated as a terrorist organization yet?"
"This..." Zhao Jiacheng hesitated momentarily.
Because they hadn't.
In truth, the Tiandihui's actions would have qualified them as a cult during peaceful times. But currently, given the special circumstances and their established influence, formal designation remained difficult.
Authorities had been attempting contact with "Sun" - what progress had been made, Zhao Jiacheng didn't know. China's two top players, "Sin" and "Sun", were both problematic individuals - truly a headache.
"Not yet. But those who do wrong will inevitably pay the price. Actually, as classmates, you should learn from those around you. For example, student Lu Ce whom we met before."
Lu Ce: ???
What the hell!
He couldn't understand this abrupt topic shift that suddenly focused on him, finding it hard to accept. Numerous eyes turned toward him in unison, with Xie Antong even subtly scooting her chair slightly away.
Zhao Jiacheng nodded amiably at Lu Ce and continued: "I believe you've all been victims of the Tiandihui's actions to some degree, making you more aware of how detestable such people are. When they were spreading their influence everywhere, they caused riots right here at your school. That berserk giant was actually one of your schoolmates."
"I'm sure you all remember how dangerous that situation was. But I recall when I arrived, student Lu Ce had already stepped forward for everyone's safety. He outsmarted that deranged individual and through clever strategy, made him lose consciousness and combat ability."
Lu Ce: "......"
That incident had happened long ago. He had no idea why this annoying guy would suddenly bring it up now. Back then, to reduce attention on himself, he'd taken leave and avoided school. For a time, people kept recognizing and pointing at him around campus.
Only through deliberate avoidance and the constant stream of explosive news from CHOSEN'S PARADISE! had he managed to fade back into relative obscurity. What was this guy talking about!
"Quite coincidentally, student Lu Ce happens to be here today. I sincerely hope you'll all make the right choices and learn from Lu Ce's exemplary behavior."
Lu Ce: $%#&@^%!
As everyone stared at him and he struggled to maintain composure, soft clapping suddenly started. Xie Antong sat to the side, expressionless as she began applauding.
As everyone knows, applause only needs someone to start before it spreads instantly. Soon the classroom echoed with enthusiastic clapping, accompanied by many students cheering.
Lu Ce was seriously wondering if this situation required him to stand up and say something?!
"Good, your responses are very encouraging," Zhao Jiacheng said. "I believe you'll all make the right choices if you one day become players and gain power."
"Will you be like the Tiandihui, letting desires shatter your will and being led by the nose by the game? Or will you be like Lu Ce, maintaining your principles and doing what's right? The choice will be yours to make."
Lu Ce couldn't keep his expression steady anymore. Never in his wildest dreams did he imagine he'd become a positive example compared to the Tiandihui! He could only imagine Zhao Jiacheng's expression if he learned Lu Ce was actually "Sin".