Martial Arts Technique Selection

Roy stood on the first floor of the Hall of Techniques, surrounded by towering shelves filled with ancient scrolls, each exuding an aura of antiquity and weight.

The elder walked ahead slowly, explaining in detail:

"Techniques are divided into nine levels, and each level is further categorized into lower, middle, and upper tiers. On this first floor, only techniques ranging from Basic Lower to Basic Upper are stored."

Basic Level Techniques

"These are fundamental entry-level techniques for cultivators, designed primarily to open meridians and stabilize the foundation of spiritual energy. While their power is limited, they are sufficient for most situations in the early stages of cultivation."

Mysterious Level Techniques

"The second floor houses Mysterious-Level Techniques, which are accessible to many inner disciples. These techniques more efficiently guide spiritual energy from the world and begin to demonstrate unique combat methods."

Earth Level Techniques

"Earth-Level Techniques occupy the fourth and fifth floors, suitable for elite disciples with outstanding aptitude. These techniques can harness surrounding spiritual energy fields, greatly enhancing combat strength."

Heaven Level Techniques

"Heaven-Level Techniques are extremely rare. Each one demands exceptional comprehension and precise spiritual energy control to master. They possess unparalleled destructive power and can even turn the tide of battle."

The elder's gaze deepened as he continued:

> "Beyond that, Master, Sacred, Legendary, and Divine Techniques are realms beyond the reach of most people. These techniques are immensely valuable, often found only in core archives of five-star academies or imperial institutions. Some have even been lost to history."

Roy listened intently, determination gleaming in his eyes. "What about the Creation Level?"

The elder sighed softly. "The Creation Level is mere legend. It is said to have been left behind by ancient gods during the dawn of creation. No one has truly seen them, let alone mastered them."

Leading Roy to the lightning technique section, the elder took three scrolls from the shelf and handed them to him.

"These three are Basic Upper lightning techniques. While not as powerful as Mysterious-Level techniques, they are sufficient to help you establish a solid foundation at your current stage."

Thunder Roar Technique

"Focuses on explosive bursts of spiritual energy, ideal for swiftly increasing combat power in a short time."

Sky-Breaking Lightning Step

"Emphasizes agility and speed, enabling the cultivator to dodge enemy attacks fluidly in battle."

Endless Thunder Script

"Specializes in sustaining the flow of spiritual energy, suitable for prolonged battles of endurance."

The elder smiled and advised, "You may choose freely, but remember — the best technique is not necessarily the strongest one, but the one that suits you best."

Roy took a deep breath, his gaze shifting between the three scrolls before he finally placed his hand on...

Roy fixed his determined gaze on the Thunder Roar Technique scroll.

"I choose this one."

The elder nodded slightly. "The Thunder Roar Technique is the most explosive among upper-tier Basic-level techniques. When fully mastered, it can harness the power of lightning, greatly enhancing offensive capabilities. However, this technique demands precise control over spiritual energy. You must be cautious during training."

Roy responded firmly, "I understand. The more challenging the technique, the greater the potential power it offers."

The elder smiled approvingly. "Ambition is admirable for a young man, but remember—progress comes from steady foundations. Do not rush, or you may cause irreparable harm."

---

Back in his training room, Roy sat cross-legged and unrolled the Thunder Roar Technique scroll.

"Guide lightning through the meridians, gather energy as thunder, command it with the mind."

The brief cultivation mantra held profound mysteries. Immersing himself deeply, Roy seemed to hear echoes of thunder within his mind.

Bringing his hands together, he began circulating his spiritual energy according to the technique's instructions, guiding it like an unseen current flowing through his meridians. It was as if a silent lightning stream surged through his body, unlocking hidden reserves of power.

Gradually, faint arcs of lightning began flickering around Roy's form, while the spiritual energy within him churned and roared.

"As expected from a lightning-based technique—the energy flows far faster than before!"

Yet as the lightning arcs intensified, sharp pain radiated through his meridians, as if countless electrical currents were surging uncontrollably. A single misstep could cause severe internal injury.

"Endure!"

Gritting his teeth, Roy pressed on, maintaining his focus and refusing to be distracted by the pain. He knew this was a critical phase—his breakthrough depended entirely on his perseverance.

Suddenly, a muffled boom resonated within his body as his spiritual energy merged seamlessly with the lightning force. Despite a slight tremor, Roy felt a newfound surge of power.

"It worked!"

His eyes snapped open, momentarily glinting with a streak of lightning. Rising slowly, he marveled at the surging lightning-based energy coursing through his veins.

"I've only just begun mastering the Thunder Roar Technique, yet my combat power has already improved significantly. If I fully master it, I will be unstoppable in battle!"

Time flowed like water, and three months quietly slipped away.

The entire Radiant Academy was filled with a mix of tension and excitement as the annual Outer Gate Competition drew near. This was not only a platform for outer disciples to showcase their strength but also a chance to ascend to the prestigious inner gate.

Over the past six months, Roy had relentlessly trained, advancing from Level 11 to Level 17. In pursuit of breaking through his bottleneck, he secluded himself for a full month, pouring all his energy into cultivation. His mastery of the Thunder Roar Technique became increasingly refined, and the thunder power within him approached perfection.

"Whew!"

With a deep exhale, Roy slowly opened his eyes.

"Level 17!"

Feeling the surging spiritual energy within his body, a smile spread across Roy's face. The month of seclusion had been grueling, but the rewards were immense. He not only stabilized his cultivation but also elevated the power of the Thunder Roar Technique to a higher level.

"Time to stretch my muscles."

Standing up and loosening his joints, Roy could feel the latent thunder energy within him, ready to erupt at any moment. He clenched his fists, his eyes gleaming with fighting spirit.

The excitement for the outer competition was palpable. On this day, countless disciples gathered in the academy's grand square. Even those who had ventured out on training missions returned days ago. Those who hadn't made it back were likely lost forever, as missing the competition was unthinkable unless due to death.

Clad in a simple green robe, Roy arrived early at the square. After long days of seclusion, he was unaware of recent events within the academy and saw this as an opportunity to catch up on inner affairs.

For outer disciples, the ultimate goal was to enter the inner gate, where the true stage awaited them.

"Did you hear? This year, the top 10 contestants will be directly admitted to the inner gate without waiting for the five-year assessment."

"Yeah, I heard that too. The rewards are also better than ever. The first-place winner gets an Epiphany Pill, a rare Tier 3 low-grade elixir."

"You mean the one that boosts comprehension ability?" Two disciples spoke eagerly, their eyes brimming with anticipation.

"Exactly."

"I also heard the top ten outer talents are competing this year!"

Walking through the lively academy grounds, Roy heard discussions buzzing everywhere. The competition arena was packed with spectators, disciples gathered in groups, excitedly discussing the upcoming matches.

"I've heard this competition has drawn some exceptional talents."

"Indeed! Even Jerel, who had gone quiet after being defeated by Roy, is said to have reached Level 16 with significantly improved strength!"

"Roy is even more astonishing! He reportedly advanced from Level 11 to Level 17 in just six months. That's unbelievable!"

The chatter grew louder, with every disciple radiating anticipation.

"Roy."

An elder approached, his expression serious as he addressed Roy. "Your progress is impressive, but this competition is no mere sparring match. The academy's high-ranking officials are paying close attention, and even inner gate elders will be spectating. You must give it your all."

Roy responded firmly, "I understand, Elder. I will not let the academy down."

The elder smiled approvingly. "Good. Having a disciple like you is the academy's pride."

Standing alone in the bamboo grove, Roy felt the breeze brush against his face.

"I will win the outer competition!"

A long whistle pierced the air, and the outer gate square fell silent. All eyes turned skyward as a figure flew through the air and slowly descended onto the main platform.

"Silence, please. I am a Radiant Academy inner gate elder, and I will now announce the rules for the competition," the airborne figure declared loudly.

"This year's competition consists of three stages:

1. Cultivation Level Test

2. Spiritual Energy Purity Test

3. Combat Matches."

With the elder's command, the atmosphere of the competition reached a fever pitch.

The elder's voice thundered across the square:

"In the cultivation test, only those who reach Level 15 or higher will advance to the next round. This is not only a measure of your strength but also a reflection of your progress over the past six months."

The disciples' expressions grew serious as they readied themselves to display their power.

Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, a massive crystal pillar was slowly carried to the center of the square. The pillar shimmered with faint spiritual light, radiating a mysterious glow.

"This is the Spiritual Resonance Pillar," the elder explained, pointing at the crystal. "Simply place your hand on it, and it will glow according to the strength of your spiritual energy, with colors ranging from white to rainbow hues. The higher the color level, the greater the potential."

The elder smiled faintly. "Testing will begin now. Step forward in order."

One by one, disciples took their turns.

"Lin Luo, Level 16!"

The pillar emitted a cyan glow, drawing nods of approval. "Impressive level and decent talent."

"Noni, Level 15!"

Another cyan glow illuminated the square as the crowd murmured, "Though just Level 15, Zhao Heng's steady foundation promises great potential."

When it was Roy's turn, the audience's focus instantly locked on him.

"Is this the Roy who advanced from Level 2 to Level 17 in less than a year?"

"I heard he's also mastered the powerful thunder technique Thunder Roar Technique!"

Roy remained calm as he stepped forward, placing his hand firmly on the crystal pillar.

Boom!

A deep purple glow shot skyward, shaking the very air with spiritual vibrations.

"This... this is Level 17 peak!"

"He's almost at Level 18!"

The audience erupted in astonishment. Even the elders on the platform showed signs of surprise.

"Well done, Roy." The elder nodded approvingly. "Level 17 peak, with pure and untainted spiritual energy. Your talent is truly extraordinary."

Roy smiled modestly. "I dare not be complacent. There is still much room for improvement."

The elder nodded with satisfaction. "Very good. Up next is the spiritual energy purity test. We look forward to your performance."

As the cultivation test concluded, most disciples advanced, while those who fell short regrettably withdrew.

"Maintain your fighting spirit and show your best in the coming stages," the elder announced. "Prepare now for the second stage—the Spiritual Energy Purity Test!"

As the first round concluded, the disciples who passed gathered on the square, awaiting the start of the second challenge.

"Now, we begin the Spiritual Energy Purity Test!"

The elder, still floating in midair, continued:

"The purity of spiritual energy not only affects its power and stability in combat but also determines your future cultivation speed and limits. Only those with sufficiently pure energy will advance to the combat round!"

With a wave of his hand, a spiritual energy testing formation appeared in the center of the square.

The formation glowed with a faint blue radiance, and at its core stood a transparent crystal orb, swirling with countless energy particles.

"The testing method is simple," the elder explained. "Inject your spiritual energy into the crystal orb. The orb will display star ratings from 1 to 9 based on purity, ranging from cloudy to crystal-clear energy."

"Only those achieving 5 stars or higher will pass," the elder emphasized. "1 to 3 stars indicate excessive impurities, making sustained high-level combat unfeasible. 5 stars are barely acceptable, while 6 stars mark high-quality energy. As for 7 to 9 stars, they represent exceptionally pure energy—rarely seen."

"Lin Luo, 5-star energy!"

"Bo Heng, 5-star energy!"

"Xis, between 5 and 6 stars!"

The disciples gasped in admiration. "Xis truly lives up to his reputation as a seasoned outer gate genius—his energy is impressively pure."

Finally, it was Roy's turn.

The square fell silent as every disciple held their breath, eager to see what this rising star, famed for his meteoric ascent, would deliver.

Roy strode confidently to the crystal orb, placing his hand on its surface. His thunder-infused energy surged like a storm, pouring into the orb through his palm.

Buzz!

The orb's energy particles erupted in a frenzy. The gentle glow intensified, transforming into a dazzling radiance streaked with traces of lightning!

"9-star energy! And it contains a thunder attribute!"

"This can't be real! At the outer gate stage, how can Roy possess such pure energy?"

Even the elder on the platform briefly faltered in amazement before nodding with satisfaction. "Roy, your energy purity is extraordinary, and you seem to have a subtle mastery of thunder essence. Truly remarkable."

As the purity test concluded, most disciples advanced, while a few failed to meet the standard and had to withdraw.

The elder declared loudly: "The second challenge is complete. Now, prepare yourselves for the final combat round! This will be the most thrilling part of the competition!"

The disciples' battle spirits ignited fully, and Roy's determined gaze reflected his readiness for the challenges ahead.