Chapter 24: Gifts and Aspirations
Denny Cing's eyes gleamed with curiosity as he reached into his robes and retrieved the mysterious black coin that Hillan Cing had given him. The coin held an enigmatic aura, and Denny was eager to share it with his mentor, Grand Elder Han.
"Elder Han," Denny began, "I received this coin from my adoptive mother, Hillan Cing. Elder Zhang mentioned that it's something significant, but he didn't elaborate on its purpose."
Grand Elder Han accepted the coin and examined it closely. The coin emitted an inexplicable energy, one that left even the experienced elder puzzled. His brows furrowed, and his expression shifted from curiosity to surprise. "This coin," he muttered, "it carries an aura I've never encountered before. It's truly remarkable."
Denny's curiosity deepened. "Do you know what it is, Elder Han?"
With a shake of his head, Grand Elder Han confessed, "I'm afraid not, Denny. Elder Zhang's claim that he didn't know its origin was accurate. This coin is indeed mysterious."
As Denny pondered the enigma of the coin, Grand Elder Han decided it was time for another revelation. He motioned for Denny to follow him to a corner of the chamber, where a colossal object was concealed beneath a heavy cloth.
With a grand flourish, Grand Elder Han unveiled the object, revealing a massive sword. It was as tall as a grown man and possessed a weight that would have been inconceivable for most martial artists—three thousand pounds of pure steel.
Denny's eyes widened as he took in the sight of the colossal weapon. "Elder Han, what is this?"
The grand elder's eyes twinkled with pride and joy as he explained, "This, Denny, is a Sky Realm sword—a weapon only wieldable by those who have attained the Sky Realm. Its weight is a testament to its power."
Denny's expression shifted from awe to confusion. "But I'm only at the War Realm," he protested, feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the sword.
Grand Elder Han chuckled heartily, a sound filled with warmth and encouragement. "Precisely, Denny. That is the test."
Denny looked at the sword, unsure of what to do. However, without realizing it, he reached out to grasp the hilt. To his astonishment, the sword felt light in his hands, and he effortlessly lifted it as though it weighed no more than a feather.
Grand Elder Han's eyes lit up with astonishment and pride. "Denny, you've just accomplished what many warriors at the Law Realm can't. You've willed a Sky Realm sword with ease."
A sense of triumph surged within Denny. The realization that he possessed an extraordinary capacity, even in his current state, filled him with determination. "Elder Han, what does this mean?"
Grand Elder Han's gaze turned serious as he explained, "It means, Denny, that you have the potential to compete in the Grand Competition, even with your lower cultivation. People may underestimate you, but they won't know your true strength."
Denny Cing listened intently, understanding the rare opportunity that lay before him. He stored the massive sword in his storage ring, preparing himself for the arduous training that awaited in the Sky Forest.
With his preparations complete, Denny Cing felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. He was ready to face the challenges of the Sky Forest, armed with both the enigmatic coin and the colossal sword, gifts that would aid him on his journey of growth and discovery.