The morning sun painted the sky in shades of gold and lavender as Mochi and Hua Yi crossed the threshold into the Celestial Moon Pavilion's sprawling grounds. The cool mountain air carried the faint hum of spiritual energy, invigorating their senses as they entered a world unlike any they had experienced before.
Mochi's amber eyes widened in delight, her gaze darting between the floating platforms overhead and the translucent bridges that spanned waterfalls and deep ravines. Hua Yi, though more composed, couldn't hide the awe in her expression as they ventured deeper into the sect.
"Wow," Mochi breathed, turning in a slow circle to take it all in. "This place could really use a guidebook—or a treasure map! It's like a maze of awesome."
Hua Yi smirked, shaking her head. "I doubt we'll have time to sightsee. The sect's reputation is built on rigorous training, not casual strolls."
Mochi's grin widened. "Then I'll explore when I'm not training. Balance is important, right?"
---
First Impressions
As they approached the central courtyard, they noticed clusters of disciples sparring under the watchful eyes of robed elders. Each movement of the sparring disciples left glowing trails of spiritual energy, a testament to their control and skill.
Mochi tilted her head, studying one particular group where a disciple wielded twin sabers that emitted crackling arcs of lightning. "Ooh, that looks fun. I wonder if they'd let me try."
Hua Yi gave her a skeptical glance. "Maybe focus on settling in before challenging anyone to a duel."
The courtyard buzzed with activity as newcomers like themselves mingled with established disciples. Floating notices written in shimmering gold letters hung in the air, listing orientation details, training schedules, and rules of conduct.
Hua Yi scanned the notices intently. "We're supposed to report to the Hall of Induction first. It's that large building over there." She pointed toward an imposing structure with carved jade pillars and a grand staircase leading up to its entrance.
Mochi nodded but seemed distracted by a stall selling spirit fruit nearby. "You go ahead. I'll catch up in a bit."
"Mochi…" Hua Yi sighed but knew better than to argue. "Don't be late."
---
An Unexpected Test
As Mochi wandered toward the stall, her attention was drawn to a commotion nearby. A small crowd had gathered around a towering disciple with a haughty expression. He stood before a group of wide-eyed newcomers, demonstrating his control over a spiraling orb of fire.
"Let's see if any of you have what it takes to join the advanced classes," the disciple taunted, his tone dripping with arrogance.
Mochi edged closer, curiosity piqued. One of the newcomers, a young boy with trembling hands, tried to summon a basic flame but failed miserably. The crowd erupted into murmurs, and the towering disciple sneered.
"Pathetic. You won't last a day here," he scoffed.
Mochi frowned, her carefree demeanor momentarily replaced with quiet resolve. She stepped forward, her amber eyes locking onto the towering disciple.
"Hey, big guy," she called out, her tone light but challenging. "Why don't you pick on someone your own size?"
The crowd fell silent as the towering disciple turned to face her, his expression a mix of annoyance and amusement. "And who might you be?"
Mochi smiled sweetly, her voice dripping with feigned innocence. "Just someone who doesn't like bullies."
The towering disciple smirked, clearly underestimating her. "Fine. Let's see what you've got, little girl."
---
A Show of Spirit
With a flick of his wrist, the towering disciple sent a fiery orb hurtling toward Mochi. The crowd gasped, but Mochi didn't flinch. Instead, she raised a hand, and Shimmer, her golden fox-like familiar, leapt from her shoulder.
In a flash, Shimmer's wings spread wide, and a protective barrier of golden light formed around Mochi, deflecting the fiery orb with ease. The orb dissipated harmlessly, leaving the towering disciple stunned.
Mochi grinned, her carefree demeanor returning. "That all you've got? I was expecting something more… impressive."
The crowd erupted into laughter, and the towering disciple's face turned red with embarrassment. He opened his mouth to retort, but an elder's stern voice cut through the commotion.
"Enough!"
The crowd parted as an elder approached, his piercing gaze sweeping over the scene. He looked at Mochi, then at the towering disciple.
"You," the elder said, addressing the towering disciple. "This is not the place for personal duels. Return to your training."
The towering disciple bowed reluctantly and stormed off, muttering under his breath.
The elder turned to Mochi, his expression softening slightly. "And you… are you a new arrival?"
Mochi nodded, her amber eyes sparkling. "Yep. Just got here. Did I make a bad first impression?"
The elder's lips twitched in a faint smile. "Perhaps unconventional, but not unwelcome. Report to the Hall of Induction promptly."
"Yes, sir!" Mochi said with a mock salute before skipping off to find Hua Yi.
---
The Journey Begins
By the time Mochi reached the Hall of Induction, Hua Yi was already waiting, arms crossed but with a knowing smile.
"Got distracted again?" Hua Yi asked.
Mochi shrugged. "What can I say? This place is full of surprises."
As they stepped into the grand hall, the air buzzed with anticipation. This was the beginning of their journey in the Celestial Moon Pavilion—a journey filled with challenges, discovery, and the promise of growth.
Mochi glanced at Hua Yi and grinned. "Ready for this?"
Hua Yi nodded, her determination evident. "Let's make the most of it."
Together, they walked forward, their footsteps echoing in the hall as the doors closed behind them.