For the next few days, Lin Tian devoted himself entirely to his cultivation and martial arts training. He could feel his foundation in the Body Refining Realm strengthening, each step bringing him closer to breaking through to the next level. Under the burning intensity of his training, he finally reached the peak of Level 6 Body Refining, just a single push away from Level 7.
He could feel the intensity of his Qi flowing more vividly than before, the energy surging through his body like an untamed river. His skin had toughened, his muscles grown denser, and his reflexes were sharper, all evidence of his rapid progress. Yet despite these advancements, his martial arts training didn't yield the same immediate results.
The Shadow Blade technique, which he had trained with so rigorously, lingered frustratingly at proficiency. He could execute it with moderate skill, but he felt there was still a veil he couldn't pierce, a hidden depth to the technique he hadn't fully unlocked. On the other hand, Ghost Step surprised him with its progress. Through repetitive practice, he found himself instinctively understanding the movements on a deeper level, elevating the technique to the level of Small Success. His speed and agility improved with each session, and soon his steps grew lighter, his movements smoother, making him feel like a flickering shadow in motion.
The day of the disciple recruitment finally arrived, marked by the lively, bustling energy throughout Crystal River City. Lin Tian gathered his things, took a final look around his training area, and headed out.
As he walked through the clan grounds on his way to the town hall, he caught sight of a familiar face: the librarian elder. Elder Shen was moving slowly through the clan's gardens, a stack of books held under one arm and an expression of mild amusement on his face. Lin Tian's respect for Elder Shen was immense; the elder was known for his wisdom, especially in martial arts and cultivation knowledge.
"Ah, young Lin Tian," Elder Shen greeted him with a knowing smile. "You've grown stronger since I last saw you, haven't you?"
Lin Tian nodded respectfully. "Yes, Elder Shen. I've been training hard for the disciple recruitment ceremony."
The elder's eyes gleamed with interest as he examined Lin Tian. "Aiming to join a first-rate force, I presume?"
"Yes, Elder," Lin Tian replied, feeling a spark of excitement.
Elder Shen chuckled, gesturing for Lin Tian to walk with him. "You know, Lin Tian, training in martial arts is much more than simply repeating the motions. There is a principle hidden within each technique, and mastering that principle brings you closer to perfecting the art itself."
Lin Tian looked at the elder, curious to hear more. "Elder Shen, I've reached proficiency with Shadow Blade, but I feel like there's something I'm missing. Ghost Step has come more naturally, but Shadow Blade seems… elusive."
Elder Shen gave a soft nod of understanding. "Ah, Shadow Blade, yes. Some arts are more difficult to grasp because they require more than physical practice. To master Shadow Blade, you must understand the essence of concealment and ambush, the mind of the shadow. Only when you align yourself with that intent will the art reveal its true form to you."
Lin Tian absorbed the elder's words, letting the meaning sink in. Shadow Blade was about blending with darkness, exploiting timing and precision, not just in a physical sense but in a spiritual and mental way too.
"Once a technique is mastered," Elder Shen continued, "there lies the potential to awaken a force. This is a rare gift, but it is attainable with dedication. For Shadow Blade, one might harness the Force of Shadow, an ability that can turn the tide in battle, amplifying the technique beyond its normal limits. Of course, not everyone who reaches mastery will attain a force, but the possibility grows with the technique's rank. The higher the technique's rank, the greater your chance to resonate with its elemental force."
Lin Tian felt a rush of excitement. Forces were mysterious powers that only the most skilled martial artists could wield, granting them an edge far beyond normal techniques. It was a sign of true mastery, a power that could tip the scales in even the direst of battles. The mere thought of harnessing such a force stirred something deep within him, a determination to pursue mastery in every technique he trained.
"Thank you, Elder Shen," Lin Tian said, bowing deeply. "I will remember your words and work to understand the essence of my techniques."
The elder nodded, a glimmer of satisfaction in his gaze. "Good. Remember, each technique is a teacher in its own right. Listen to it, feel it, and it may just guide you to true mastery."
With that, Lin Tian gave his thanks once more and continued his journey to the town hall of Crystal River City, where the recruitment ceremony was to take place.
When Lin Tian reached the town hall, he was met with an overwhelming sight. Crowds had gathered, filling the spacious plaza that stretched out before the tall, impressive structure. Warriors, young cultivators, and their families stood shoulder-to-shoulder, excitement buzzing in the air as they eagerly awaited the start of the ceremony.
The emblems of the Heavenly Radiance Sect, the Azure Sky Sect, and the Celestial Blade Pavilion were displayed prominently, each banner casting an aura of pride and legacy. Representatives from each sect were stationed at ornate tables, their presence adding an air of grandeur to the scene.
Lin Tian scanned the crowd, observing the other hopefuls who would be vying for a place within these prestigious forces. He saw many familiar faces—young warriors from neighboring clans, ambitious cultivators who had come to make a name for themselves, and even some from rival clans. They all wore expressions of determination, each one driven by the same goal.
He made his way to the registration area and handed in his information. As he waited, his thoughts turned to his training and Elder Shen's words. Mastery, force, the essence of techniques… he repeated the words silently, letting them sink in deeper.
Suddenly, the crowd quieted as an elder from the Heavenly Radiance Sect stepped forward, his voice booming across the plaza. "Young cultivators of Crystal River City, we welcome you all! Today marks a new chapter in your journey, as we seek to find those with the courage, skill, and potential to join our ranks and walk the path of cultivation with us."
The crowd stirred with excitement. Lin Tian's gaze sharpened, his resolve strengthening as he listened to the elder's words.
The Azure Sky Sect representative, a woman in her forties with a calm and confident demeanor, took her turn. "We will test each one of you rigorously. We are looking for those with the heart to withstand hardship, the resilience to break past your limits, and the wisdom to learn from your battles. If you possess these qualities, you may find a place within the Azure Sky Sect."
The Celestial Blade Pavilion's representative, a stern-faced man with a powerful build, nodded. "The journey will be harsh. We accept only those willing to dedicate themselves to mastery of the blade and strength of mind. If you are weak in spirit, leave now. Those who stay must be prepared to give their all."
Lin Tian felt a thrill as the representatives finished their introductions. This was the beginning of his next challenge, an opportunity to test himself and measure his worth. He stood among his fellow hopefuls, his heart pounding with anticipation. The path ahead was uncertain, but he was ready to face whatever challenges awaited him.
Today marked the first step in his quest to uncover his true potential, and with each word from the sect representatives, his resolve only grew stronger.