@Trezcast
Probably because she doesn't want to risk anyone noticing that she got a message, they're in hostile territory and she doesn't want to add fuel to the fire.
They should realize if Tao kills virtually all of the beasts alone it would be rather difficult to outscore her if/when she decides to just run around at the later part of the exam. (I mean if she is strong enough to one hit kill beast after beast, merely avoiding some would be far easier)
@BananowyJE
If its made of gold it should be fine, at-least as long it isn't made of too pure gold. (24k is rather delicate, any inscriptions would wear off fast.)
@KeiosKod
Probably went for lower weight to specialize in speed, which should cripple his power. though it wouldn't be Kengan if Gaolong could just shrug of the mosquito bites so I agree that he will outbox him.
@Karakuri1812
Eh, getting kidnapped and nearly 'eaten' I'd give her a pass for being a bit self centered. That and its supposed to be a story written by a freshly awakened thirsty teen, so it even has a canon reason to be inconsistent.
@Nakanowatari
Because they started out on the boat, and *told* you about the rest of their conversation, with the previous chapter ending on 'take your pick' it just feels like there's a page missing.