The ship approached Emerald Edge slowly, the breathtaking island revealing its natural beauty in full view. Towering cliffs wrapped the shoreline, while dense forests stretched toward a distant range of jade-colored mountains. At the heart of the island stood the Emerald Pavilion, a majestic structure glowing faintly with emerald light, as if infused with the essence of the land itself. The air buzzed with the energy of cultivators, anticipation thick among those aboard.
As the ship docked, a distinct hierarchy became evident. The stronger cultivators, who bore symbols of talent or elevated cultivation realms, were granted the privilege of stepping ashore first. They received polite nods and welcoming gestures from sect representatives.
Ling Fei watched the scene unfold without complaint, though he couldn't help but notice the disparity in treatment. When it was finally his group's turn, they followed the representatives to the Emerald Pavilion, where the sect's recruiters were waiting. The main hall bustled with activity, and the atmosphere was tense with the weight of opportunity and judgment.
As Ling Fei stepped through the Pavilion's entrance, a familiar system notification chimed in his mind:
[Sign-In Successful: First Destination—Emerald Ridge.]
[Sign-In Reward: Mystic Beast Path Technique Scroll (Super Rare).]
[Bonus Reward: 1000 Sign-In Points.]
Ling Fei's heart quickened as the scroll materialized in his consciousness. While he was a bit dissapointed about it not being one of the items that can upgrade his strength instantly now that the tests were near, he could already feel its profound nature. The additional sign-in points were another boon, granting him more opportunities to enhance his foundation. But he decided to save them for emergency needs this time.
The rewards were a subtle yet solid affirmation of his journey thus far, a reminder of the determination and patience that had carried him here. He concealed his excitement, keeping his focus on the task at hand.
Among the sect representatives was a Beast Path cultivator with sharp eyes and an aura of quiet authority. His presence commanded attention, and when he singled out Ling Fei and Xu Wei, there was no mistaking the gravity of his words.
"You two," he said curtly, "follow me to the Beast Path section. The trial awaits."
The trail led them to a sprawling field on the outskirts of the Pavilion. The area was dominated by pens and enclosures filled with various beasts—each one exuding an air of ferocity or intelligence. The air was heavy with tension, punctuated by the occasional growl or screech of the creatures.
"The task is simple," the representative explained. "Control, bond, or subdue. Show your worth, or step aside."
Xu Wei was quick to act, striding toward a sleek black panther with crimson eyes. With calculated precision, he summoned his energy, using a refined Beast Path technique to pacify the creature. The panther growled low but eventually bowed its head, recognizing Xu Wei's dominance.
Ling Fei, meanwhile, observed his options carefully. Trusting his instincts, he chose a silver-scaled wyvern. Its eyes gleamed with intelligence, and its aura radiated restrained power. Ling Fei extended his hand, channeling a soothing yet firm presence through his Beast Path energy. The wyvern regarded him cautiously before lowering its head slightly, acknowledging his strength and control.
"Impressive," the representative said, his tone neutral but his raised brow betraying his surprise. "Both of you have passed. You'll advance to the next stage of the recruitment process."
With the trial complete, the group regrouped to prepare for the journey to the sect's inner region. The talented and famous ones had a flying ship from the sky path reserved for them. While people like Ling Fei needed to ride by horse carriages.
Their transportation was simpler but sufficient— the horse-drawn carriages were designed for endurance. The convoy set off across winding paths through lush forests and open plains. The road was long and grueling, but the anticipation of reaching the sect kept the group motivated.
Ling Fei sat quietly in one of the carriages, his thoughts on the rewards he had just obtained. The Mystic Beast Path Technique Scroll promised to enhance his cultivation, potentially unlocking new levels of mastery. Meanwhile, the bonus sign-in points offered flexibility for future gains.
Beside him sat Xu Wei, who seemed unusually subdued for once. The tension between them lingered, but neither spoke, their focus instead fixed on the road ahead. The journey to the sect would be long.
Ling Fei's gaze shifted to the horizon, where the sun dipped low, casting a golden glow over the landscape. This was only the beginning, but with every step forward, he felt his resolve harden. His path would not be dictated by the world's expectations but carved by his own determination.