Chapter 5: Spiritual Roots
Da Cai stepped into the spacious hall, the air buzzing with an undercurrent of excitement and tension. Rows of wooden seats were arranged neatly, and he quickly found an empty spot, settling into his seat as more participants filed in. The murmurs of nervous conversations and the shuffle of footsteps gradually filled the room.
Once all the seats were occupied, a commanding voice rang out. "Silence."
The single word carried an undeniable authority, though it was not shouted. It resonated through the hall like a ripple in still water, silencing every whisper. At the front stood an elderly man, his posture upright and his eyes sharp, exuding an aura of immense power.
"I will now explain the rules of this examination," he began, his tone measured yet firm.
He gestured to a large, crystalline orb that stood on a pedestal at the center of the hall. Its surface shimmered with an ethereal glow, capturing everyone's attention. "The first test is to determine your spiritual roots. Spiritual roots are the foundation of your aptitude for cultivation. They measure your ability to absorb and refine spiritual Qi."
The old man's gaze swept across the room, ensuring all were paying attention. "You will place your hand on the orb, and it will reveal the quality of your spiritual roots. The levels range from one to ten:
One to Two: The lowest level. Those with roots of this quality lack the basic aptitude for cultivation and will be disqualified. Three to Five: Normal aptitude. Cultivators at this level can progress with hard work and persistence but will face limitations in their potential. Six: Above average. These individuals have a better-than-normal affinity with spiritual Qi, making their cultivation smoother and more efficient. Seven: Outstanding. Cultivators at this level can absorb spiritual Qi with ease, allowing them to progress faster than most. Eight: Exceptional. These individuals stand out even among geniuses, with an innate ability to harmonize with spiritual Qi and grow at an accelerated pace. Nine: Rare. Cultivators with this level of roots are considered once-in-a-generation prodigies. Their presence alone can inspire awe. Ten: Heaven-defying. Those blessed with roots of this quality are monstrous geniuses, capable of improving simply by breathing. They are destined to leave an indelible mark on the world."
The room was deathly quiet as the weight of his words sank in. Some participants' faces paled, while others' eyes burned with determination.
"If your spiritual root level is below three, you are disqualified and will not proceed to the next round," the old man continued. "Those who qualify will learn about the second test after this one. Now, let us begin!"
With that, the examination officially commenced. One by one, participants were called to the front to place their hands on the orb. Each person's results were displayed in brilliant lights, their future in cultivation decided in a single moment.
Da Cai clenched his fists, his heart pounding. He watched as the first participant stepped forward, the hall holding its collective breath.