As the dust settled over Platform Three, the murmurs of the crowd turned into a chorus of bewildered cheers and whispers. The recent clash had left everyone shaken and exhilarated, witnessing a duel so fierce that it ended in a rare tie, with both Duō Yī and Duō Xuān collapsing from sheer exhaustion. The energy among the clan members was electric, the air thick with suspense.
But the underlying question loomed large: there were only three referrals to the White Crane Sect, yet four warriors now stood worthy. How would the Duō Clan resolve this?
At the main platform, the elders gathered, their expressions a blend of pride and frustration. Elder Lǐ glanced over at his peers, each with their own vested interests and opinions. The murmurs grew louder, edging into a full-blown debate.
Elder Duō Jì, ever the strategist, spoke up, his voice steady and insistent. "Xuān is the clear choice. He has precision, natural talent with the sword, and will bring honor to our clan."
Elder Duō Qīng crossed his arms, a hint of defiance in his tone. "Duō Yī has risen above all expectations. His innovative use of Qi and resourcefulness makes him uniquely suited to face whatever the sect may require."
The arguments swelled, each elder laying forth their opinions, until at last, Elder Lǐ called for a vote. All eyes turned to him, and he nodded, signaling each elder in turn to cast their decision.
One by one, the votes fell. Tension hung in the air as the final tally came to light: 5 to 6, in favor of Xuān.
The decision spread through the crowd like wildfire, yet the reception was muted. Whispers broke out, expressions ranging from discontent to confusion. Though Xuān had clearly proven himself, Duō Yī's performance had moved many, and murmurs of his potential still echoed among the spectators.
Seeing the mixed reactions, Elder Lǐ raised a hand, calling for silence. His voice carried over the arena, calm and commanding. "Members of the Duō Clan, hear me well. There were three referrals promised, and three referrals shall be given. The clan's official recommendation aligns with today's decisions, and these three individuals shall represent us with pride in the White Crane Sect."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the faces of the young contenders and their supporters, his eyes filled with a quiet, knowing strength. "However," he continued, "while the clan may extend only three official referrals, there is nothing to prevent any individual from venturing to the White Crane Sect independently. Should they find acceptance, the clan will stand behind them as fellow kin."
A glimmer of hope flared in the eyes of those who had fought valiantly, but fallen short in the competition. The loss no longer felt like an end, but an opportunity.
Duō Yī's contenders, who had accepted defeat, felt a renewed determination. Talk erupted among them, each one eager to strategize and discuss their options.
---
Hours later, Duō Yī stirred, his eyes fluttering open to the dim glow of his family's quarters. A warm, familiar presence was at his side.
"Mother…?" he murmured.
There, seated with a gentle, relieved smile, was his mother, Duō Líng Mèi. Her hand rested lightly on his, her gaze filled with pride.
"Ah, you're awake." She beamed, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. "You've done well, my son. Very well. You've made me, and the entire clan, so very proud."
Despite the lingering ache from the battle, Duō Yī felt a wave of comfort in her presence, a solace that erased the exhaustion of the day. "Thank you, Mother. But… I didn't get the referral. I couldn't win outright," he admitted, his voice filled with both frustration and a flicker of disappointment.
Her hand squeezed his gently, her expression unwavering. "Sometimes, the path to victory isn't always in a direct line, Yī. You've proven yourself to more than just me. You've shown the clan what true determination is." Her eyes sparkled with a hint of mystery. "And sometimes, when one door closes, another opens."
He blinked, curiosity stirring. She reached into the fold of her robes and withdrew a small envelope, which she placed into his hands. "Here," she said, her tone light but deliberate.
Duō Yī stared at the envelope, surprised. "What… what is this?"
She smiled. "It's a referral, one I acquired through… other channels. While the clan may have only three slots, that doesn't mean I couldn't arrange one myself."
His gaze darted from the envelope back to his mother, confusion mingling with awe. "But… how?"
A playful glint entered her eyes. "Let's just say that I still have connections. My family… has its own influences."
He opened his mouth to ask more, but she held up a hand, silencing him with a gentle smile. "All in good time, Yī. There's a reason I haven't spoken much of my family. When the moment is right, you'll learn everything."
With that, she rose, leaning over to plant a soft kiss on his forehead. "Rest well, my son. The days ahead will demand your full strength."
As she quietly left the room, Duō Yī remained still, a mixture of excitement and gratitude coursing through him. His mother's unexpected gift had reignited his purpose, and he knew what lay ahead.
He allowed himself a small, satisfied grin. "With that, the main goal is achieved." He sat up slowly, his eyes drifting toward the window, where the first rays of dawn began to brighten the horizon. "Only one more thing left to do."
With a final, determined look, his gaze drifted in the direction of the clan's pagoda. An unmistakable glint sparked in his eyes, and an almost mischievous grin spread across his face, a silent promise of what was yet to come.