The journey to Tianlu City was far from easy. The forest thinned gradually, giving way to rolling hills and rocky terrain. Zhang Wei's legs ached from the hours of walking, but Lin Xiyu's pace never slowed. She moved with the confidence of someone who had traveled this path many times before.
"How much farther?" Zhang Wei asked, his voice tinged with exhaustion.
"Not long," Lin Xiyu replied, glancing over her shoulder. "Tianlu City is at the foot of that mountain." She pointed toward a massive peak in the distance, its summit hidden in the clouds.
Zhang Wei sighed, adjusting the straps of his crude bag. "Finally. I could use a break."
Lin Xiyu smirked. "Don't get too comfortable. Tianlu may be a city, but it's no less dangerous than the wilderness. Keep your wits about you."
The warning sent a chill down Zhang Wei's spine. He tightened his grip on his spear, his eyes scanning the horizon.
As they approached the city, the road grew busier. Merchants with heavily laden carts, groups of travelers, and even armored guards passed them by. Zhang Wei's eyes widened at the sight of cultivators—men and women dressed in flowing robes, their movements exuding an otherworldly grace.
"Are they…?" Zhang Wei began.
"Cultivators," Lin Xiyu finished, nodding. "Tianlu City attracts all kinds. Some come to trade, others to recruit or challenge rivals. It's a hub for anyone serious about cultivation."
They reached the city gates just as the sun dipped below the horizon. The towering walls loomed above them, adorned with intricate carvings that seemed to shimmer in the fading light. Guards stood at attention, their eyes sharp as they scrutinized every newcomer.
Lin Xiyu stepped forward, producing a small token from her bag. The guards inspected it briefly before waving them through.
"Stick close," Lin Xiyu said as they entered the bustling streets. "You'll get lost if you're not careful."
Zhang Wei nodded, his eyes darting around as he took in the sights and sounds of Tianlu City. The streets were lined with stalls selling everything from exotic herbs to glowing weapons. The air buzzed with the chatter of merchants and the occasional shout of an argument.
"Impressive, isn't it?" Lin Xiyu said, noticing his awe.
Zhang Wei nodded. "It's… overwhelming."
Lin Xiyu led him to a small inn tucked away in a quieter part of the city. The innkeeper, a stout woman with a warm smile, greeted them and showed them to their rooms.
"Rest up," Lin Xiyu said, tossing Zhang Wei a small pouch of coins. "You'll need energy for tomorrow."
"Tomorrow?" Zhang Wei asked, catching the pouch.
Lin Xiyu smirked. "You're going to meet someone who can help you get stronger. Sleep well, Zhang Wei."
The next morning, Zhang Wei found himself standing outside the Azure Sky Sect's recruitment hall. The massive structure was built into the side of the mountain, its stone walls adorned with banners bearing the sect's emblem—a soaring azure eagle.
Lin Xiyu had accompanied him but stood a few steps back, observing quietly.
"Why are we here?" Zhang Wei asked, his gaze lingering on the intimidating building.
"To join the sect," Lin Xiyu replied simply. "You want to get stronger, don't you? This is the best place to start."
Zhang Wei hesitated, his grip tightening on his spear. "And what about you?"
Lin Xiyu shrugged. "I have my own path. But consider this repayment for saving my life yesterday."
Before Zhang Wei could respond, the large doors of the hall creaked open, and a man stepped out. He was tall and imposing, his dark robes trimmed with silver. His piercing gaze swept over Zhang Wei, making him feel as though his every secret had been laid bare.
"You wish to join the Azure Sky Sect?" the man asked, his voice deep and commanding.
Zhang Wei swallowed hard. "Yes, I do."
The man's eyes narrowed. "Then prove your worth. The Azure Sky Sect has no room for the weak."
He gestured toward the open hall, where several other hopeful recruits were gathered. Zhang Wei followed his gaze and saw that the room was set up like an arena, with various stations for testing strength, speed, and Qi control.
"You will undergo three trials," the man explained. "Only those who pass all three will be admitted. Do you accept this challenge?"
Zhang Wei took a deep breath, his heart pounding. "I accept."
The first trial tested physical strength. Zhang Wei was instructed to lift a series of weighted stones, each heavier than the last. His muscles strained as he hoisted the final stone, sweat dripping from his brow. He barely managed to set it down before his legs gave out.
"Pass," the examiner said curtly, marking a scroll.
The second trial measured speed and agility. Zhang Wei was tasked with navigating an obstacle course while dodging incoming projectiles. He stumbled more than once but managed to cross the finish line without getting hit.
"Pass," the examiner repeated, though his tone was less impressed.
The final trial focused on Qi control. Zhang Wei was given a small orb and instructed to channel his Qi into it, making it glow. This was the most daunting task, as his control over Qi was still rudimentary at best.
He closed his eyes, focusing on the techniques from the Qi Condensation Manual. Slowly, he guided the energy within him toward the orb. At first, nothing happened, but with persistence, the orb began to glow faintly.
"Barely pass," the examiner said, his expression unreadable.
Zhang Wei exhaled heavily, relief washing over him.
The tall man from before stepped forward, his expression still stern. "You have passed the trials, though only just. Welcome to the Azure Sky Sect, Zhang Wei."
A wave of emotions surged through Zhang Wei—relief, pride, and a lingering sense of unease. He had made it, but he knew this was only the beginning.
As he left the hall, Lin Xiyu was waiting for him.
"Congratulations," she said, a rare smile gracing her lips. "You've taken your first step."
Zhang Wei nodded, his determination renewed. "Thank you, Lin Xiyu. For everything."
"Don't thank me yet," she said, her smile fading. "The sect is no place for the faint of heart. Be careful, Zhang Wei."
With those parting words, she turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving Zhang Wei to face the uncertain path ahead.