Later that day, Shenlong was summoned to the grand hall where the Clan Master awaited. Qin Zhen, the Clan Master and his adoptive father, was a formidable presence—a man of immense power and dignity. His gaze was intense as Shenlong entered, and an uneasy silence filled the room.
"Shenlong," Qin Zhen began, his tone measured, "I have heard that you returned with newfound skills and strength. I witnessed your spar with Xian Lei from afar. Your improvement is… unexpected."
Shenlong bowed. "Clan Master, I have dedicated myself to training, and I have learned much. I am here to serve the clan with everything I have."
Qin Zhen regarded him with a skeptical but intrigued expression. "Strength alone is not enough to regain your place. Show me if you truly possess the will to carry the Qin name."
A wave of intense pressure emanated from Qin Zhen, testing Shenlong's resolve. It was the aura of a powerful cultivator, one that could bring an average disciple to their knees.
But Shenlong stood firm, his gaze unwavering. He summoned the energy from within, stabilizing himself against the force. His confidence and composure did not waver, and he met Qin Zhen's challenge head-on.
After a moment, Qin Zhen withdrew the pressure, a hint of a smile on his lips. "You've indeed changed, Shenlong. Your resolve is commendable. But do not forget—strength without purpose is dangerous. You carry the Qin name, and your actions will reflect on us all."
Shenlong nodded, bowing respectfully. "I understand, Clan Master. I will not fail."
Qin Zhen's expression softened slightly, and he nodded in approval. "Very well, Shenlong. Prove your worth in the trials to come. And remember, true power lies not in dominating others but in controlling oneself."
As Shenlong left the hall, he felt a renewed sense of determination. The Clan Master's words resonated with him deeply. His journey was far from over, and though he had only begun to unlock the power within him, his ultimate goal remained clear: to uncover the mysteries of his pendant, to reclaim his honor, and to rise beyond the shadows of his past.