The ship approached Emerald Edge slowly, and I couldn't help but marvel at the island's natural beauty as it came into full view. Towering cliffs wrapped the shoreline, while dense forests stretched toward a range of jade-colored mountains. At the heart of the island stood the Emerald Pavilion, glowing faintly with emerald light, almost as if it were part of the land itself. The energy in the air was thick with the presence of cultivators, and I could feel the anticipation building around me.
As the ship docked, the hierarchy among the cultivators became clear. Those with visible marks of status or higher cultivation realms were granted the privilege of stepping ashore first. They were greeted with polite nods and welcoming gestures from the sect representatives. I watched all of this in silence, acknowledging the differences without feeling the need to react.
When it was finally my turn, I followed the representatives toward the Emerald Pavilion. Inside, the main hall was buzzing with activity, the air charged with both opportunity and judgment. The atmosphere weighed heavily on me, but I focused on the task ahead.
Just as I stepped through the entrance, a familiar notification chimed in my mind:
[Sign-In Successful: First Destination—Emerald Ridge.]
[Sign-In Reward: Mystic Beast Path Technique Scroll (Super Rare).]
[Bonus Reward: 1000 Sign-In Points.]
My heart quickened as the scroll appeared in my mind. I had hoped for something that could instantly boost my strength with the trials looming ahead, but I could already sense the profound nature of this scroll. The bonus sign-in points were a welcome addition, providing me more options for future growth. Still, I decided to save them for a time when I truly needed them.
Though I didn't feel the immediate thrill of receiving something to push me forward right now, I knew that these rewards were a reflection of the journey I'd already undertaken. They were a subtle affirmation, and I kept my excitement in check, focusing on what came next.
Among the sect representatives was a Beast Path cultivator with sharp eyes and a commanding presence. When he singled out Xu Wei and me, his tone left no room for doubt.
"You two," he said curtly, "follow me to the Beast Path section. The trial awaits."
We followed him through a sprawling field on the outskirts of the Pavilion, where pens and enclosures were filled with various beasts. Each creature radiated its own power—some fierce, others intelligent. The air was tense, punctuated by the occasional growl or screech.
"The task is simple," the representative explained. "Control, bond, or subdue. Show your worth, or step aside."
Xu Wei wasted no time. He walked toward a sleek black panther with crimson eyes. He summoned his energy with precision, using a refined Beast Path technique to pacify the creature. The panther growled low but eventually lowered its head, acknowledging Xu Wei's dominance.
I took a more deliberate approach. I studied the beasts around me, trusting my instincts. My choice fell on a silver-scaled wyvern. Its eyes gleamed with intelligence, and its power was restrained, yet palpable. I extended my hand, channeling a soothing yet firm energy through my Beast Path cultivation. The wyvern studied me for a moment before lowering its head slightly, recognizing my strength.
The representative's gaze flickered between us, and though his expression remained neutral, I could tell from his raised brow that he hadn't expected both of us to succeed. "Impressive," he said. "Both of you have passed. You'll advance to the next stage of the recruitment process."
With the trial behind us, we regrouped to prepare for the next phase. The more renowned cultivators had a flying ship reserved for them, courtesy of the Sky Path. Meanwhile, Xu Wei and I would travel by horse-drawn carriage. It wasn't as flashy, but it would do.
The convoy set off across winding paths, cutting through lush forests and wide-open plains. The journey was long and grueling, but the anticipation of reaching the sect kept us moving forward.
I sat quietly in one of the carriages, my mind reflecting on the rewards I had just received. The Mystic Beast Path Technique Scroll could enhance my cultivation, potentially unlocking new levels of mastery. The bonus sign-in points would offer me more flexibility down the road.
Beside me, Xu Wei seemed unusually quiet. The tension between us hadn't fully dissipated, but neither of us spoke. We were both lost in our own thoughts, our focus fixed on the road ahead. The journey would be long, but my resolve only grew stronger with every mile.
As the sun dipped low, casting a golden glow over the landscape, I shifted my gaze toward the horizon.