Protagonist

I had two very intense work weeks. Things should calm down from now on, and I plan to resume releasing chapters.

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I spent the remaining two days before joining the Whispering Gale Sect laying low and keeping a low profile. On the day of the trials, I arrived at the square where they would take place.

The trials were quite simple. They checked our cultivation level and bone age. If you met the requirements, you were allowed inside, and you were already considered worthy to be an outer disciple. Those extravagant and strange trials seemed meaningless when a simple check could reveal someone's potential, especially since the basic cultivation methods were accessible to everyone.

There were about 100 of us on the square who had already become outer disciples. Interestingly, there was a higher tier called "Selected Outer Disciples" which consisted of the top 10 talents and top 5 in strength. They would compete in more challenging competitions for further advancement today, and any one who want can participate. Elders could also take in outer disciples under their wing, providing more guidance on their respective territories.

In my case, if Xu Yan's mother was indeed an elder of this sect, I would have to make my presence known at the end of the event so that I could be accepted onto her territory as her disciple and receive better guidance. Until then, it was best to keep a low profile and avoid drawing attention.

***

Some outer disciple:

As an Outer Disciple on Elder Ironfist's territory, I found myself standing next to him, fanning him with a large feather fan. Who would have thought that as an Outer Disciple, I would end up doing this and that it would be considered a prestigious "job"? I chuckled to myself, thinking how absurd it all was. If someone had told me that I would be doing this before joining the sect, I would have laughed and spit in their face. But here I was, doing it because this seemingly ridiculous "job" was actually well-paid in sect points.

To remain in the sect as an Outer Disciple, I needed to pay around 5,000 sect points per year. This "job" allowed me to earn those points and cover my yearly dues in just a month. If I failed to pay, they would brand me with an indelible tattoo as a mark of a failed disciple and banish me from rejoining the sect. That was definitely something I wanted to avoid. So, I begrudgingly kept fanning Elder Ironfist.

The system, although strange, does motivate us to carry out tasks within the sect. The sect gains wealth, influence, and more, while we, the disciples, gain access to knowledge and opportunities to grow. All we need to do is ensure we have enough sect points. Interestingly, the wealthy can simply purchase these points.

I learned an interesting piece of news that, if I report it first to Elder Ironfist, will earn me additional sect points. As I continued my duties, I observed the new disciples carefully, trying to identify the person in question. Elder Ironfist had a rather unique appearance, with long hair tied into a ponytail, a well-built body, towering height, and a stern face. He had a scar on his chest, which he would "accidentally" reveal while wearing a slightly loosened robe. Despite his strength and significant political influence within the sect, I couldn't help but shudder at the rumors surrounding his involvement with both male and female disciples. It was all supposedly consensual, but the thought of such a powerful figure having relations with young male disciples sent shivers down my spine.

Finally, I spotted the person I had been searching for—someone called Ye Chen, known for having certain inclinations and being quite attractive. I quickly approached Elder Ironfist and Elder Su, who was one of the most beautiful Elder figures in our sect. Next to her sat an unfamiliar, but equally attractive, girl. Rumor had it that she was Elder Su's daughter, who she took away from her husband, a rather unbelievable story considering how stunning Elder Su looked. Meanwhile, I couldn't believe I had to relay such information to the elders about Ye Chen's preferences.

After she heard what I was whispering, her eyes widened in genuine astonishment, and she paused for a moment, lost in thought. Then, she abruptly turned her head and narrowed her eyes, looking at her daughter with disapproval, who quickly moved a little away. Elder Ironfist listened to me, smiling oddly, and reminded me to remind him about the 500 sect points he had promised. With a smile in return, I resumed my task of fanning him and continued to carry out my duties.

***

Protagonist:

"Disciple Ye Chen come forward!"

As the voice called my name, I couldn't help but wonder how this imposing giant knew who I was. I paused for a moment, contemplating whether I should hide my identity, but I decided against it, fearing it might come back to haunt me at an inconvenient time.

I took a step forward, pushed back my hood, and said, "Disciple Ye Chen greets Elder." I offered a slight bow and stood, anxiously awaiting his response.

The Elder gave me a curious look that made me feel somewhat uneasy. Then, he smiled at something and nodded. He spoke, "You're lucky. I'll take you as my disciple. You can be free for today, and tomorrow come back here at dawn. We will depart for the sect."

I was completely taken aback by this unexpected twist of fate. I glanced at Su Mei, Xu Yan's mother, who seemed lost in thought while looking at me. However, I couldn't help but notice a hint of disgust in her gaze. What could I have possibly done to provoke such a reaction from her?