The Elder’s Decision

Zarek followed the elder through the sect grounds, eyes wandering around the massive structures. Tall, stone towers stretched toward the sky, their icy surfaces reflecting the fading sunlight. Disciples were everywhere, either meditating, sparring, or practicing techniques.

"So, how many trials did I miss exactly?" Zarek asked, casually walking alongside the elder.

"Six," the elder replied curtly. "And each of them would've tested your body, spirit, and willpower. But I suppose we'll find out if you're as talented as you seem."

"No pressure, right?" Zarek smirked, his voice lighthearted despite the tension.

After a few minutes, they reached a large hall at the center of the sect. Intricate carvings of mythical beasts and ancient symbols adorned its entrance. The elder pushed open the heavy doors, revealing a vast chamber filled with light. At the far end of the room, seated on an ornate throne, was the Sect Leader.

Zarek instantly knew this guy was no joke. His aura alone felt suffocating, like standing too close to a raging fire. The Sect Leader looked down at Zarek with a calm but intense gaze.

His long blue hair flowed down his back, and his robes shimmered with the essence of power. He had reached the peak of the Mortal Realm.

The elder bowed slightly. "Sect Leader, this boy seeks admission to the Heavenly Sect, though the trials have ended. The River of Talent responded to him."

The Sect Leader leaned forward slightly, studying Zarek with keen interest. "The River of Talent trembled for him?"

Zarek didn't waste any time. He walked up confidently, hands in his pockets, as if he hadn't just interrupted an ancient sect's sacred trials. "So, how's it going? I heard you're the one who decides if I'm in or not."

The Sect Leader raised an eyebrow, clearly unamused by Zarek's casual tone. "You stand before the Sect Leader of the Heavenly Sect kid ," he said slowly. "This is not a place for flippant words."

Zarek chuckled, scratching his head. "Yeah, my bad. But I'm not really one for formalities. I'd rather show you what I can do instead of just talking about it."

The disciples behind him gasped. Talking like this to the Sect Leader? Who did this kid think he was?

But the Sect Leader didn't seem angry. Instead, he smiled faintly. "You're either incredibly brave or incredibly foolish. Very well, I will allow you to join the sect as a provisional disciple. But know this—our sect is not for the weak-hearted. You will face trials that will push you beyond your limits."

Zarek shrugged. "I like a good challenge. Thanks, old man."

The elder beside him paled slightly, but the Sect Leader merely waved his hand. "Go. You will begin your training tomorrow."

As Zarek turned to leave, one of the disciples finally spoke up, stepping in front of him. "You think you can just waltz in here and act like you own the place? You haven't earned anything yet, kid."

Zarek paused, his eyes flicking toward the disciple. "And you are…?"

"The name's Jin. I've been here for years. Don't think you can just come in and get special treatment."

Zarek smirked. "Special treatment? Nah, I'll just do things my way. We'll see how things play out."

Jin clenched his fists, clearly not pleased with the response. "You're gonna regret that attitude."

"Maybe," Zarek said with a grin. "But probably not."

With that, he casually strolled out of the hall, leaving a stunned Jin and the other disciples behind.

_____________________________

Later that night, Zarek found himself wandering the sect grounds, the cool evening breeze brushing against his skin. He wasn't worried about the trials or the challenges ahead. In fact, he was excited. This place was exactly the kind of adventure he had been looking for.

As he gazed up at the stars, he couldn't help but wonder how things would play out. The Heavenly Sect, the River of Talent, the Sect Leader—all of it felt like the start of something big. And Zarek, as usual, was ready to take it head-on.

....

Meanwhile, in a dark corner of the Draconic Sect, Draven sat cross-legged in meditation, his brow furrowed in concentration. His cultivation was slow, frustratingly so, but he refused to give up. He would grow stronger—no matter what it took.

The shadows around him seemed to flicker as if they recognized the determination burning in his soul.

Two different paths. Two different destinies. But in the end, both would lead to something neither of them could foresee....