Examination

Autumn Snow stood there, her gaze fixed on the two stone mirrors. She had a 5-star talent rating for both Yuan Qi and Astral Qi. There was no doubt that she would easily pass this round. Her confidence radiated, and the crowd couldn't help but admire her.

As the examination continued, more candidates stepped forward. Some had decent talent, while others barely met the minimum requirements. Autumn Snow observed them with a calm demeanor, her eyes occasionally glancing at Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian remained composed. He had already experienced countless trials and tribulations in his life, and this examination was just another challenge. He knew he couldn't compete with Autumn Snow in terms of talent, but he had his own strengths.

Finally, it was Qin Wentian's turn. He walked up to the Yuan Observing Mirror, placed his palm in the groove, and closed his eyes. The crowd watched with bated breath as the darkened orbs on the mirror began to glow. One, two, three... Qin Wentian's talent for sensing Yuan Qi reached a 3-star rating.

There was a murmur in the crowd. It was a respectable result, but not exceptional. Autumn Snow had a higher talent rating in this aspect.

Qin Wentian then moved to the Astral Observing Mirror. He placed his palm in the groove, and the darkened orbs began to light up. One, two, three, four... they continued to light up until the ninth and final orb glowed brightly. Qin Wentian had a 5-star talent rating for sensing Astral Qi.

The crowd was stunned. It was an extraordinary result. Qin Wentian had not only met the minimum requirement but had achieved a perfect score. Even Autumn Snow, with her outstanding talent, had only lit up five orbs.

Talon, who was watching closely, couldn't hide his surprise. The Royal Academy had underestimated Qin Wentian's potential. He had just displayed remarkable talent in sensing Astral Qi.

"5-star talent for Astral Qi," announced the examiner.

Qin Wentian stepped away from the mirror, and the crowd erupted into whispers. They couldn't believe what they had just witnessed. A candidate with a 5-star talent rating for Astral Qi was exceptionally rare.

Autumn Snow couldn't hide her shock either. She had always been the center of attention, the one with the most extraordinary talent. But now, Qin Wentian had stolen some of her spotlight.

The representatives of the four great academies exchanged glances. They had initially dismissed Qin Wentian, but now they had to reassess him. Talon, in particular, was starting to regret underestimating Qin Wentian.

The examination continued, but the atmosphere had changed. Qin Wentian's performance had raised the expectations of the crowd, and they eagerly awaited the results of the other candidates. Many were hoping to see more surprises.

As the last candidate finished the examination, the results were compiled. Only a handful of candidates had passed the first round. Autumn Snow and Qin Wentian were among them.

Talon stepped forward and addressed the remaining candidates. "Congratulations to those of you who have passed the first round. However, the challenges will only get tougher from here. The second round will test your combat abilities."

The second round involved sparring matches between the candidates. They would be evaluated not only on their martial skills but also on their adaptability, strategic thinking, and the ability to read their opponents. It was a rigorous test that required both physical and mental prowess.

The candidates were paired off for the matches. Autumn Snow was matched with a candidate from another prestigious clan. Their battle was fierce and intense, showcasing their talents and abilities. Ultimately, Autumn Snow emerged victorious, her combat skills shining brightly.

Qin Wentian's opponent was no pushover either. They engaged in a battle of wits and strength. Qin Wentian's adaptability and strategic thinking became apparent as he outmaneuvered his opponent and claimed victory.

The matches continued, and the crowd watched with excitement. The candidates pushed themselves to their limits, and the battles became increasingly thrilling.

In the end, only a few candidates remained, including Autumn Snow and Qin Wentian. They had showcased not only their talent but also their combat prowess. The representatives of the four great academies were impressed by the performances they had witnessed.

Talon approached Qin Wentian, his expression serious. "You've exceeded our expectations, Qin Wentian. Your talent in sensing Astral Qi is remarkable, and your combat skills are impressive. We would like to extend an invitation to you to join the Royal Academy."

Qin Wentian nodded. "I appreciate the offer, but I have my own path to follow."

Talon didn't press the matter further. He knew that Qin Wentian had his reasons. Instead, he turned his attention to Autumn Snow, who had also passed the second round with flying colors.

"Autumn Snow, the Royal Academy would be honored to have you as a student. Your talent is undeniable, and your performance in the sparring matches was outstanding."

Autumn Snow smiled gracefully. "I am deeply honored by your invitation, but I have not yet made a decision. I will consider my options."

The representatives accepted her response and bid her farewell. The examination had concluded, and the candidates dispersed. Autumn Snow and Qin Wentian walked away from the training grounds, their paths uncertain but filled with potential.

As they left, Autumn Snow couldn't help but speak to Qin Wentian. "You surprised me today, Qin Wentian. Your talent for sensing Astral Qi is extraordinary."

Qin Wentian smiled. "You're the one who taught me the importance of perseverance and determination. I had to find my own path, and today, I proved that I can walk it."

Autumn Snow nodded, her admiration for Qin Wentian evident in her eyes. "I have my own path to follow as well. We may have different destinies, but I hope we both find success in our chosen paths."

They parted ways, each heading in their own direction, but the memories of that day's examination would stay with them forever. It was a day that marked the beginning of their separate journeys, filled with challenges, opportunities, and the promise of a bright future.