Chapter 4: Ascension and Oaths
Tian Yu stood atop the Forbidden Mountain, his breath steady despite the lingering echoes of the Void Realm within his mind. The sigil on his palm pulsed faintly, a reminder of the power he had glimpsed. But there was no time to dwell. The next step of his journey awaited—joining the Azure Sky Sect.
He turned to the Lunar Wolf pup, which wagged its tail expectantly. "Time to leave."
The descent from the Forbidden Mountain was swift. With each step, Tian Yu refined his understanding of Void Step, allowing him to phase through obstacles with eerie fluidity. He tested it against falling boulders, letting the technique carry him just beyond their destructive paths. The sensation was unlike anything he had experienced—a fleeting existence between worlds.
Hours later, he reached the sect's outer gates. Towering walls stood before him, adorned with the Azure Sky Sect's emblem—a soaring azure phoenix. The sect was one of the top forces in this region of the First Heaven, known for its profound martial techniques and fierce internal competition.
Arrival at the Azure Sky Sect
Two disciples in blue robes stood at the entrance, their cultivation at Qi Refining Ninth Stage. Their expressions were indifferent but carried the air of those accustomed to turning away unqualified applicants.
"Halt! State your purpose."
Tian Yu clasped his hands. "Tian Yu, seeking entry to the Azure Sky Sect."
One of the guards sneered. "Another one? The entrance trials ended a week ago. If you came hoping for an exception—"
Before he could finish, another figure stepped forward—a senior disciple. He was in the Foundation Establishment Realm, his eyes sharp as he assessed Tian Yu. "Wait. The sect always welcomes those with talent. If you can prove your worth, you may enter."
[System Alert: Side Quest Activated]
Trial of Entry: Defeat the Senior Disciple in Combat.
Rewards: Azure Sky Sect Entry Token, 2000 System Points
Tian Yu exhaled slowly. "Very well. I accept."
The senior disciple smirked and took a stance. "Don't disappoint me."
Trial by Combat
The battle began in an instant. The disciple lunged forward, his palm glowing with blue Qi. Azure Talon Strike! The technique formed a sharp claw of energy, slashing toward Tian Yu.
Instead of retreating, Tian Yu activated Phantom Step, dodging the attack effortlessly. The onlookers gasped.
The disciple narrowed his eyes. "You're fast. But let's see how you handle this!" He formed a hand seal. Azure Flowing River! A torrent of Qi surged forth like a rushing stream, aiming to drown Tian Yu in overwhelming force.
Tian Yu remained calm. He reached deep into his new power and activated Void Step. His body flickered, vanishing just as the energy crashed down. The audience gaped as he reappeared behind his opponent.
"Lunar Crescent Slash!"
A silver arc of light cut through the air, forcing the disciple to twist midair to dodge. But Tian Yu anticipated this. Twisting his wrist, he redirected the energy mid-strike, catching his opponent off guard. The attack landed cleanly, sending the disciple flying.
A deep silence followed.
The fallen disciple groaned before staggering to his feet. He let out a shaky laugh. "I yield."
[System Alert: Trial Completed]
Azure Sky Sect Entry Token Acquired.
+2000 System Points.
The senior disciple walked up and handed Tian Yu a jade token. "Welcome to the Azure Sky Sect. But don't think this is the end—stronger foes await."
Tian Yu simply nodded, his gaze firm. He had taken the first step into the sect, but this was only the beginning of his ascent.
New Bonds and Rivalries
As Tian Yu entered the sect, he was directed to the Outer Court, where new disciples resided. The sect was vast, its grand halls and towering pagodas exuding a solemn majesty. Spiritual energy permeated the air, making it an ideal ground for cultivation.
A group of disciples gathered to observe him, whispering amongst themselves.
"Did you see his fight? He defeated a Foundation Establishment senior!"
"Impossible! He's only at Qi Refinement Great Perfection. How can he be that strong?"
Among them, a young woman stepped forward. She had a regal bearing, her long violet robes signifying an elite background. Lan Yue, a direct disciple of the sect's elders. She gazed at Tian Yu with curiosity.
"You're interesting," she said with a smirk. "But talent alone won't carry you far. I hope you're prepared for what comes next."
Before Tian Yu could respond, another voice interrupted. "Hmph! Strength is measured in battle, not words. Let's see if he can keep up."
A tall youth with sharp eyes strode forward. Fang Xuan, a known prodigy in the sect, was already at the Foundation Establishment Middle Stage. He exuded confidence, his arms crossed as he assessed Tian Yu.
"I'll be keeping an eye on you," Fang Xuan said coldly before walking away.
Tian Yu met his gaze without flinching. Challenges lay ahead, but he welcomed them. He had much to accomplish—his path to power had only begun.
[System Notification: Quest Unlocked]
Azure Sky Sect Trials – Progress through Sect Rankings
Objectives: Complete Outer Court Trials, Earn Recognition of the Sect Elders, Challenge the Inner Court Disciples.
End of Chapter 4: "Ascension and Oaths"
This chapter expands Tian Yu's journey, focusing on his entry into the Azure Sky Sect and his first battle within its ranks. His use of Void-based techniques hints at the evolution of his fighting style. The sect will serve as the next major setting, where he will face new challenges, meet allies and rivals, and continue uncovering the mysteries of the Void Era.