The long-awaited day of the disciple admission test had arrived. The central square of the Golden Crane Sect was a scene of controlled chaos. Young aspirants from all over the realm gathered, each waiting for their turn to apply for the coveted title of sect disciple. The air was thick with anticipation and tension as an elder, floating above the crowd on his gleaming sword, gave the signal for registration to begin.
Huang Di observed the scene intently, his heart pounding. He knew there wouldnât be enough spots for everyone, only the most exception would succeed. He studied the movements of the candidates who stood out, trying to understand what it would take to shine. Like a parrot mimicking its master, he absorbed every detail, determined to earn a place among the best.
Despite his ragged clothing and humble appearance, Huang Di wasnât shaken by the scornful and arrogant looks cast his way. Many of the youths present came from influential families, dressed in fine garments and equipped with gear that enhanced their abilitiesâenchanted swords, protective amulets, and other magical artifacts.
When he finally reached the front of the registration line, a young nobleman eyed him with clear disgust and whispered something to his servant known as Mad Dog. He, understanding his masterâs intent, stepped forward toward Huang Di, releasing a powerful third-level Aura of the Profound Rank that radiated menacing pressure.
âIn a hurry, are you? Go right ahead,â Huang Di said with a wry smile, attempting to mask his surprise and confusion at the sudden hostility.
This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
Mad Dog, annoyed by Huang Diâs apparent calmness, wasted no time with words. He lunged with a powerful punch aimed at the young manâs abdomen, clearly trying to cripple him and destroy his chances of practicing martial arts. Huang Di, sensing the danger, reacted instinctively and narrowly dodged the blow. Even the force of the attackâs wind pressure was enough to shake himâhe realized the Mad Dog hadnât even used his full strength.
The crowd, excited by the prospect of a fight, formed a wide circle around them, eager to witness the clash. The young master looked on with disdain, his expression filled with impatience.
The Mad Dog sneered openly at Huang Di.
âYou really are a bumpkin. Still at the first level of the Profound Rank at your age? What a waste.â
Huang Di, remaining calm, replied firmly,
âAge doesnât determine talent. Letâs see who the real waste is.â
The crowd, divided between backing the Mad Dog and the arrogant noble or rooting for the underdog, watched with growing interest. Some had already started betting, while others murmured predictions about the outcome.
At the center of the Golden Crane Sectâs Plaza, a large crowd buzzed with tension and excitement. Elder Meng Lu, examiner of the entrance test and an external elder of the sect, observed the scene from above, floating on his sword. He was responsible for deciding who would be accepted into the sectâa duty he carried with pride. When he noticed the fight threatening to erupt into chaos, he initially considered stepping in. But as he recognized the individuals involved, a cunning smile crept across his face.
âHow can I benefit from this?â he muttered to himself, watching the confrontation with renewed interest.