The Sect Selection

As Rudhra approached his tenth birthday, the anticipation for the sect selection ceremony grew palpable throughout the kingdom. In Kumarikandam, this pivotal event marked the transition from childhood to formal cultivation, where each child would be assessed and chosen by one of the four major sects, each offering a unique path of training and mastery.

The sects—Celestial Lotus Sect, Shadow Forge Sect, Radiant Dawn Sect, and Eclipse Vanguard Sect—were each renowned for their distinct philosophies and strengths. The Celestial Lotus Sect was known for its focus on inner peace and enlightenment, the Shadow Forge Sect specialized in mastering the darker aspects of power, the Radiant Dawn Sect was revered for its discipline and celestial teachings, and the Eclipse Vanguard Sect was both feared and esteemed for its emphasis on raw strength and boundless potential.

On the day of the selection, the palace was transformed into a grand arena. Representatives from each sect arrived in resplendent attire, their presence adding an air of grandeur and solemnity to the occasion. The children, now ten years old, stood ready to demonstrate their potential. Among them, Rajan, the great elder's grandson, was the center of attention. His Grade S bloodline and Gold Veins made him a prime candidate for any sect, his refined abilities and prestigious lineage setting him apart as a likely choice for the most esteemed sects.

Rudhra, on the other hand, was a curiosity. His impressive display of strength and the enigmatic nature of his awakening had earned him a degree of attention, but there was no clear indication of the specific talents or bloodlines that could secure him a position in one of the major sects. Despite his intimidating presence and the aura of power that surrounded him, his lack of a defined, prestigious bloodline made him a wildcard in the selection process.

Round 1: Gravity Test

The Gravity Test was a true trial of physical endurance and inner strength. The testing ground was a vast expanse marked by a series of boundary lines, each representing an increasing level of gravitational pressure. The goal was to cross a distance of 1,000 meters, with the weight of the gravity becoming progressively more intense as the participants advanced.

Rajan approached the test with focused determination. He paced himself carefully, calculating each step as he advanced through the increasingly difficult gravity. Despite his Grade S bloodline and exceptional abilities, Rajan's progress was met with visible strain as he reached the 780-meter mark. His breathing became labored, and sweat dripped from his brow as he struggled to push further. The pressure was relentless, and Rajan eventually had to stop, his body unable to overcome the force any longer.

Sheela, the alchemy grand elder's granddaughter, took her turn next. Her grace and poise were evident as she began the test, her technique reflecting years of disciplined training. She managed to reach 600 meters before the gravity overwhelmed her, her movements slowing as she fought against the increasing force. Though she displayed remarkable effort and skill, she too had to yield to the intense pressure, marking the limit of her endurance.

When Rudhra stepped up, he exuded an air of casual confidence that was immediately striking. The gravity test began, and as Rudhra entered the testing zone, he was met with a surge of intense gravitational force. The pressure pressed down on him with a formidable weight, but Rudhra seemed unaffected. His laughter, a deep and resonant sound, filled the air as he faced the challenge.

Elder Balaram (watching Rudhra's progress with curiosity): "Is he struggling at all? It seems like the gravity isn't affecting him the way it should."

Sect Representative (leaning forward, intrigued): "No, it appears he's moving with ease. This is unprecedented. We need to keep an eye on this one."

With an almost nonchalant stride, Rudhra began to move forward. The gravitational pressure that had hindered the others appeared to barely faze him. His steps were steady, and his body moved with a fluidity that seemed to defy the increasing force. As he advanced, the gravity seemed to bend around him, yielding to his innate strength and resilience.

The onlookers watched in stunned silence as Rudhra crossed the 500-meter mark, then the 700-meter mark, and continued forward with unwavering determination. His movements remained smooth and effortless, as if he was walking through a light mist rather than enduring crushing gravity. The pressure, which had previously caused others to struggle, seemed to dissipate in his presence.

Sect Representative of Eclipse Vanguard (whispering to a colleague): "This boy… he's extraordinary. What does this mean for our sect?"

As Rudhra approached the 1,000-meter mark, the representatives and spectators were left in awe. He reached the end of the designated distance without any visible struggle, his composure unshaken. The contrast between Rudhra's effortless performance and the visible strain of the others was striking. His display was both remarkable and perplexing, leaving the sect representatives to exchange incredulous glances and whispered speculations.

Elder Balaram (to the other elders): "We've never seen anything like this before. His strength is beyond our comprehension."

Round 2: Perception Test

The Perception Test was designed to challenge the children's mental acuity and adaptability. Each child was required to master a basic martial art, the Qi Blade, using only the provided manual and their innate understanding.

When Rudhra approached the Perception Test, he was handed a manual detailing the steps to create and control the Qi Blade. Without any prior instruction or practice, he glanced through the manual and then closed his eyes. A moment later, he unconsciously summoned a shimmering blade of energy in his hand, demonstrating an impressive control over the technique.

Sect Representative of Celestial Lotus (stunned): "He's already wielding the Qi Blade. This is… astounding."

The crowd gasped in amazement as Rudhra manipulated the Qi Blade with ease. His ability to master the martial art so effortlessly, despite it being his first exposure to the technique, left everyone speechless. His display of innate talent and mastery of the Qi Blade was beyond what anyone had anticipated, once again drawing attention to his extraordinary potential.

Rajan (watching from the sidelines, muttering to himself): "Impressive, but he's still not invincible. There's more to this than just raw talent."

Round 3: Combat Test

The final round of the sect selection was the Combat Test, a crucial demonstration of martial skill and tactical prowess. This test was meant to showcase each child's combat abilities in a controlled environment. Given the stakes, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and nervous energy. The candidates knew that this was their chance to impress the sect representatives and secure a place in their chosen sect.

As the test began, the tension was palpable. Every child had been working towards this moment, but there was a noticeable shift in the air when Rudhra stepped forward. His previous performances had already established him as a standout, and now, with the Combat Test approaching, the other candidates were visibly anxious. The fear of facing Rudhra in combat was evident in their eyes. They understood that their chances of winning against him were slim to none.

Child A (whispering to Child B): "Are you seeing this? He's a force to be reckoned with. I don't think anyone stands a chance."

Child B (nervously): "I hope I don't have to fight him. It's clear he's on a different level."

When the Combat Test officially commenced, Rudhra did something that no one anticipated. Instead of engaging in combat with the other children, he walked confidently towards the representative of the Eclipse Vanguard Sect. With an air of casual authority, he announced, "I wish to join your sect."

The request was met with a mix of surprise and intrigue. The representative of Eclipse Vanguard, a figure known for their discerning and often intimidating demeanor, looked at Rudhra with a raised eyebrow. The other sect representatives exchanged glances, their expressions revealing their own confusion and contemplation. Even the king, observing from his place among the dignitaries, wore a tight-lipped smile, his pride and apprehension barely concealed.

Eclipse Vanguard Representative (after a pause): "You certainly have the audacity and skill to back up such a request. We'll accept you, but you'll have to prove yourself once more within our sect."

Rudhra's arrogance was evident, but it was backed by his exceptional abilities. The sheer audacity of his request combined with his undeniable talent made it clear that he was not only confident but also justified in his demand. The Eclipse Vanguard representative nodded slowly, acknowledging Rudhra's request. There was a moment of silence as the gravity of the situation sank in.

Without waiting for further formalities, Rudhra turned on his heel and walked away. His destination was clear—a nearby forest that he had grown fond of. The Qi Blade techniques he had practiced earlier had sparked a new sense of curiosity and hunger in him. The natural surroundings of the forest beckoned to him, promising both a respite and an opportunity to further explore his burgeoning powers.

As Rudhra disappeared into the forest, the remaining children and the gathered audience were left in a state of stunned silence. The Combat Test, which had been expected to reveal the ultimate martial prowess, had ended abruptly with Rudhra's unconventional approach. The other candidates watched him leave with a mix of awe and envy, their chances of making a significant impact overshadowed