As dawn broke, Lin Xuan stood before the towering gates of Elder Mo’s training grounds. The air was thick with spiritual energy, vibrating with an intensity that sent a shiver down his spine. This was no ordinary place. It was a battleground where countless Inner Sect disciples had been forged into elites.

  He stepped inside, and immediately, an oppressive force weighed down on him. His breathing grew heavier, his muscles tensed. It was as if the entire space was rejecting his presence, testing his will before he had even begun.

  Elder Mo stood at the center, arms crossed, his gaze sharp as a blade. Beside him was a group of Inner Sect disciples—each radiating an aura that proved they were far beyond the average cultivator. Lin Xuan recognized a few of them. Notorious figures within the sect.

  “Good. You’re here,” Elder Mo said, his voice carrying authority. “Today marks the beginning of your true training. You may have some talent, but raw talent without tempering is nothing but a wasted gift. From this moment onward, you will be put through hell. If you cannot endure, leave now.”

  This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

  Lin Xuan’s eyes flashed with determination. He clenched his fists. “I’m ready.”

  A smirk played on Elder Mo’s lips. “Then let’s begin.”

  Without warning, the ground beneath Lin Xuan trembled. The disciples around him moved, their attacks swift and deadly. He barely had time to react before the first fist came hurtling toward him.

  Boom!

  He raised his arms to block, but the force sent him skidding backward. Another disciple attacked, a sword slicing through the air. Lin Xuan twisted his body, avoiding the blade by a hair’s breadth.

  His instincts screamed at him—this was a battlefield, and he was the prey.

  Elder Mo’s voice echoed. “Survive, and you’ll grow stronger. Fall, and you were never worthy.”

  Lin Xuan gritted his teeth. If this was what it took to become stronger, then so be it.

  He steadied himself, his Heavenly Script flaring to life. The power within him surged, and he countered with newfound speed and precision. The fight was only beginning.

  To be continued…