The tension in the atmosphere was palpable, intensified by the echoing voice of the larger cultivator resounding throughout the assessment grounds. The calm composure of the other cultivator wavered as they fully grasped the gravity of the situation.
"It was a joke, a joke that you don't have to take personally," said the slim guy
The slim cultivator's voice trembled slightly as he tried to ease the tension.
His words lingered in the air briefly, creating a thick atmosphere of anticipation.
The larger cultivator, who remained visibly agitated, glared at him skeptically, seemingly not convinced by the explanation.
With a swift and graceful motion, the slender cultivator adeptly avoided the larger cultivator's attack. Displaying fluid movements, he showcased a surprising level of agility and precision that astonished onlookers.
The atmosphere buzzed with tension as the slender cultivator's nimble footwork enabled him to effortlessly evade the incoming fist.
The bigger cultivator, who was even more frustrated after his unsuccessful try, aggressively lunged forward for another attack, displaying his determined muscles.
Nevertheless, the slender cultivator skillfully avoided his strikes by carefully maneuvering, swiftly sidestepping and bending to dodge every punch accurately and swiftly.
The spectators were amazed as they witnessed the incredible agility of the slender cultivator, which appeared to defy the laws of physics. Despite the aggressiveness of his opponent, he remained composed and calm, creating a striking contrast.
Through his skillful dodging and maneuvering, he was able to stay out of reach and successfully avoid any direct confrontation.
The tension in the atmosphere increased even more as the larger cultivator became more desperate with their attacks, while the slim cultivator continued to move effortlessly and with control. The spectators were completely engrossed, holding their breath in awe of the impressive demonstration of skill and quick decision-making.
As the taller cultivator finally paused to catch his breath, the slender cultivator took a step back, his expression calm yet firm. "Let's not escalate this any further. We are here to prove our worth in judging, not to engage in unnecessary conflict."
His words, which were spoken with a quiet authority, appeared to have an impact on the people who were present. The bigger cultivator, who was now slightly out of breath, paused for a moment before reluctantly acknowledging with a nod, as he realized that continuing the confrontation would be pointless.
The tension in the air lessened as the two cultivators moved apart, each pausing to compose themselves. The spectators exchanged looks, impressed by how skillfully the slender cultivator handled the situation. With the conflict resolved, they proceeded towards the evaluation area, now holding a greater admiration for the slender cultivator's capabilities and calmness.
Liam was truly amazed by the slim cultivator's skill in diffusing the tense situation with his composed demeanor and quick thinking.
While they proceeded towards the assessment grounds, Liam couldn't help but admire the slim cultivator's capability to handle conflicts gracefully and calmly.
The incident reminded Liam of how important it is to have not just physical strength, but also mental fortitude and emotional intelligence in the field of cultivation. When they arrived at the assessment grounds, Liam mentally reminded himself to control his emotions and face the challenges with a calm and determined mindset.
He also needs to be cautious of the hidden dangers within the application, similar to crouching tigers and hidden dragons.
Someone tapped Liam on the shoulder; it was Yuan, the slim guy who fought the bulky guy.
"Hello, Liam, it's James."
"James, this is Liam."
Liam extended his hand to James in greeting and greeted the slim cultivator with a friendly smile. "Nice to meet you, James."
James returned the gesture and shook Liam's hand firmly. "Similarly, Liam. Yuan here told me that you are a promising farmer."
Liam's cheeks were tinged with a slight blush as a result of the compliment. He expressed his gratitude for the kind words but acknowledged that he still had a lot to learn.
Yuan chimed in, "Liam has talent, and with the right guidance, he will go far in our sect."
James nodded, agreeing that continuous improvement and growth are what everyone strives for.
"Yes, I forgot to tell you that James here is also a disciple of Grand Master Xuan."
Liam's eyes widened in realization, realizing the importance of James being a student of Elder Xuan, the same elder to whom he had imparted valuable wisdom.
"It is an honor to meet you, James. Elder Xuan's teachings have been incredibly insightful."James nodded with appreciation, acknowledging that Elder Xuan is a profound mentor whose guidance has influenced a significant number of people, including himself.
With a proud smile, Yuan interjected, "And now, Liam, you also have the guidance of Elder Xuan. Our sect's future is in capable hands with mentors like Elder Xuan and Master Ling."
Liam was overwhelmed with gratitude and a feeling of responsibility.
As they continued to talk, the group moved towards the evaluation area, their steps matching each other.
The upcoming obstacles appeared less intimidating with the support of comrades.
Some hours later a disciple came up to the alleviated platform to get the assessment on the way. She was dressed in the Inner Court attire
The Inner Court attire she wore represented her authority and expertise, capturing the attention of all the cultivators present. The atmosphere on the elevated platform became filled with anticipation as the disciple got ready to announce the start of the assessment.
The disciple's commanding presence caused the murmurs among the cultivators to be silenced as she raised her hand. Her voice, clear and steady, reverberated throughout the assessment grounds.
"Welcome to the annual evaluation, all future practitioners of our esteemed sect. Today, you will be tested not only on your martial prowess, but also on your wisdom, adaptability, and strategic thinking. It's designed to challenge you and push you beyond your limits. To push your limits and bring out the best in each of you."
Pausing, she let her words sink in, highlighting the seriousness of the impending difficulties. The cultivators stood captivated, fully understanding the importance of this occasion.
The assessments will be carried out in multiple stages, with each stage testing different facets of your skills. Keep in mind that it is not only about overcoming obstacles, but also about gaining knowledge from them.
Welcome the challenges, adjust to unforeseen circumstances, and above all, exhibit the resilience of your character.
After her speech ended, the cultivators experienced a surge of determination and resolve. They exchanged determined glances, silently promising to do their utmost in the face of any forthcoming challenges.
The disciple nodded, recognizing the collective determination of the monks. "May you all show the true spirit of our sect. Let the assessment begin."
The assessment grounds sprang to life with those words, and the cultivators, Liam included, readied themselves both mentally and physically for the upcoming trials. The first stage of the assessment was about to begin, signaling the start of a sequence of challenges designed to evaluate their abilities, determination, and teamwork.
Before the first assessment began, each cultivator was given a badge that contained an identification number. The cultivators went to the positions assigned on the badge plate: east, north, south, and west.
The initial evaluation involved testing endurance. A vast field, approximately 22 acres in size, served as a gravitational field. Each cardinal direction, including both width and height, occupied approximately 5 acres of land.
(A/N: One acre is equivalent to one football field, so just imagine you have 22 football fields, that's a lot of space)
There were 2 acres of land located at the center of the cardinal point.
The test focused on individuals who were able to withstand the gradual increase in gravity and move towards the center, all within a time limit of 5 hours.
In the wide assessment grounds, the cultivators stood prepared, their gaze fixed on the faraway center where the gravity field exerted the most pressure. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as they readied themselves to confront the challenging test of endurance. Each cultivator, including Liam, modified their posture, mentally gearing up for the forthcoming trial.
The disciple who was supervising the assessment raised her hand once more, indicating the start of the test. With a quick movement, the cultivators began to move, their bodies becoming indistinct as they sprinted towards their assigned cardinal directions.
Upon entering the gravity field, the resistance against their movements intensified, challenging their strength and determination. Their brows became adorned with beads of sweat as they exerted themselves against the unseen force, with each step demanding immense effort.
The cultivators' muscles were strained, and their breaths were laboriously gasped, yet they persisted, compelled by their aspiration to validate their abilities.
The field became a place where willpower and tenacity clashed. Some cultivators lost their footing due to the intensifying gravity, causing their movements to slow down as they fought to persist.
On the other hand, some clenched their teeth and persevered, overcoming the opposition through sheer determination.
Liam experienced the burden of the gravity bearing down on him, yet he concentrated his thoughts, harnessing his inner power to continue advancing.