The wind whipped around Duō Yī as he soared across the skies, perched atop the slender back of the white crane. The bird's silken feathers gleamed in the morning sunlight, and its strong wings sliced through the clouds with graceful precision. Far below, the landscape sprawled in shades of green and blue, rivers winding through fields and forests like silver threads. Despite the great height, Duō Yī felt an unexpected calm.
He shifted his gaze to the horizon, where mountains rose from the mist like ancient giants, and among them stood a distant peak capped with floating clouds. The White Crane Sect—a name both mysterious and revered. For centuries, its name had echoed across the realms, known for its prodigies, its strict code of cultivation, and its competitive discipleship. It was a place where the worthy could ascend from mere mortals to immortals. And now, Duō Yī was almost there.
Hours passed as the crane sailed through the skies, and gradually, the peaks of the White Crane Sect grew larger, their snow-capped tops gleaming like a city of clouds. Duō Yī leaned forward, heart pounding as he caught sight of the towering gates that marked the sect's entrance. They were carved from polished white stone, towering high and adorned with symbols of ancient beasts and mythical figures. A gentle warmth spread through him—a strange mix of nerves and exhilaration.
"Almost there," he whispered to himself, a slight smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. Soon, the crane began to descend, and with a powerful beat of its wings, it landed gracefully at a secluded pathway leading into the sect grounds. The crane lowered its head, allowing Duō Yī to step down from its back before it took off once more, leaving him alone at the edge of the sect's outer region.
Duō Yī took a moment to breathe, his eyes sweeping across the vast landscape. It was even grander than he had imagined. Ahead lay a winding stone path bordered by rows of lush trees, their leaves shimmering in various shades of green and silver. Faint sounds of water flowing could be heard from somewhere in the distance, adding a serene undercurrent to the air. He felt a slight weight in his chest—a mixture of awe and anticipation. He was here, finally, and the journey was just beginning.
A voice called out from nearby. "Ah, you must be the new arrival from the Duō Clan."
Duō Yī turned to see a young man approaching with an easy, welcoming smile. The disciple was perhaps a few years older than him, with a head of unruly black hair and eyes that shone with a bright, unassuming warmth. He wore the sect's standard gray robes, which were embroidered with the emblem of a crane on his left shoulder. There was an air of friendliness about him, an open-hearted demeanor that felt unusual in a place as prestigious as the White Crane Sect.
"Welcome," the young man greeted, offering a slight bow before extending his hand in a casual gesture. "My name's Hú Lì. Outer disciple, same as you. I've been asked to show you around and get you settled. They usually don't have a welcoming committee for private arrivals, but... I figured it would be a good excuse to make a new friend."
Duō Yī returned the gesture, inclining his head respectfully. "Thank you. I'm Duō Yī. I appreciate the welcome."
Hú Lì grinned, clapping Duō Yī on the shoulder with an encouraging pat. "Well, let's get started, shall we? There's a lot to see."
As they began to walk, Hú Lì pointed out various sections of the outer region, each more impressive than the last. "The White Crane Sect covers miles and miles of territory—thousands of outer disciples are spread across the peaks here, while the inner disciples and core members live deeper in the mountains." He gestured to the towering peaks in the distance. "Only the best make it to the inner region, so that's the dream for most of us here."
They continued along the path, passing clusters of disciples training or meditating beneath the trees. Some practiced martial arts forms, moving with fluid precision, while others channeled their energy into focused bursts, manipulating the air or sparking small flames from their palms. Duō Yī watched with fascination, absorbing every detail.
Hú Lì noticed his interest and chuckled. "Pretty amazing, huh? Everyone here's been training for years to get where they are. And don't let their calm faces fool you; competition's fierce. But that's just part of the experience."
As they walked, Hú Lì explained the basics of life at the sect. "We're organized into groups based on our cultivation level, but everyone has a chance to prove themselves. You earn contribution points through missions—those points can be exchanged for resources, techniques, or even higher-level artifacts if you're diligent enough."
Duō Yī nodded, committing each detail to memory. "So, strength and contributions determine your standing?"
"Pretty much," Hú Lì confirmed. "And while outer disciples are typically at the Qi Gathering Realm, you'll find people at different stages. The goal for most is to reach the Foundation Establishment Realm and get promoted to the inner sect, but that's no small feat."
After walking through a wooded area, they reached a large open courtyard surrounded by tall pagodas and smaller training halls. The courtyard was bustling with disciples, some sparring under the watchful eyes of senior members, while others exchanged materials or artifacts from small stalls set up along the edges.
"This is the main square for outer disciples," Hú Lì explained. "It's where you'll find resources, mission boards, and places to practice. And there's the Hall of Records," he pointed to a grand building flanked by two stone statues of cranes, their wings outstretched as if poised to take flight. "That's where you register for missions and track your contribution points."
They continued their tour, passing smaller halls and meditation pavilions. Hú Lì seemed to know nearly everyone they passed, offering a wave or quick word to the disciples and elders alike. His warmth made it easy for Duō Yī to relax, the newcomer nerves gradually fading.
As they reached a quiet spot beneath a flowering cherry tree, Hú Lì leaned against the trunk and stretched, letting out a content sigh. "It's a lot to take in, I know. But don't worry—you'll get used to it soon enough."
"Thank you," Duō Yī said earnestly. "You've been really helpful."
Hú Lì shrugged, a smile tugging at his lips. "No need to thank me. We're all trying to survive here, right? Besides, I always think it's best to make friends early on. This place… it can be harsh. But if you've got people you can trust, it makes all the difference."
A companionable silence settled over them as they watched the other disciples going about their day. Duō Yī took a deep breath, the fresh mountain air filling his lungs, bringing with it a sense of calm. Despite the challenges he knew lay ahead, he felt a renewed determination. He had entered this place alone, but maybe, just maybe, he could find allies along the way.
Eventually, Hú Lì broke the silence, his expression turning slightly serious. "One last thing, though. The sect has strict rules. The most important: no killing of fellow disciples. Any violent disputes have to go through the official channels, and anyone caught breaking that rule… well, let's just say they aren't around to talk about it."
Duō Yī nodded. "Understood."
"Good," Hú Lì said, his smile returning. "And remember—focus on your own growth. It's easy to get lost in what others are doing, but everyone's path is different."
They finished the tour near the quarters assigned to new outer disciples. Hú Lì handed Duō Yī a set of gray robes similar to his own, along with a small wooden plaque marked with the emblem of the White Crane Sect. "These are yours now," he said. "Welcome to the White Crane Sect, Duō Yī. If you ever need anything, just look for me."
Duō Yī accepted the items with a grateful nod. "Thank you, Hú Lì. I won't forget this."
Hú Lì waved off the thanks with a grin. "You can repay me by not getting in over your head. But hey, if you ever want to spar, I'd be more than happy to show you a few moves."
With a final nod, Duō Yī watched as Hú Lì turned and walked back down the path, disappearing into the sea of disciples. Alone now, Duō Yī glanced at the sect emblem on his plaque, feeling the weight of the journey ahead settle onto his shoulders.
But he was ready. He had made it this far, and with every step, he would prove that he belonged here.