Chapter 16: The Challenge Begins

Wu Tian clenched the jade token in his hand, its weight a stark reminder of how far he had come. From a forsaken janitor to an official outer disciple, his journey had only begun. But the world around him was shifting—his presence was no longer an afterthought.

Jiang Yue's cold eyes never left him, her smirk filled with amusement yet carrying a dangerous edge. The watching disciples murmured among themselves, whispering speculation about what was to come.

"I'll give you some time to adjust," Jiang Yue said with a teasing tone. "But don't keep me waiting too long, Wu Tian. You'll have to prove that your victory wasn't just a fluke."

With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Wu Tian standing amidst the gathered disciples. He could feel their stares, their curiosity—but also their hostility. His sudden rise had disturbed the fragile hierarchy of the outer sect, and those who had spent years struggling for recognition wouldn't easily accept an upstart.

Wu Tian exhaled, his fingers tightening around the jade token. He would not falter.

A Moment of Respite

Returning to his quarters, Wu Tian sat on the wooden floor, closing his eyes as he focused inward. The fight had taken a toll on his body, and while the Third Gate—Flowing Blood had helped mitigate the worst of the damage, he still needed time to adjust.

As he centered himself, he could feel it—the pulse of energy within him, different from Qi, yet undeniably powerful. His blood was no longer ordinary. It flowed with vitality, reinforcing his muscles, enhancing his reflexes. But he wasn't done yet.

He had glimpsed the next step in his dream—the Fourth Gate—Iron Marrow.

To break through, he needed to push his body to the limits once again. But unlike before, where he relied on pure physical training, this time, he sensed that something else was required. An external catalyst.

His brows furrowed. A lucky encounter.

The book in his mind had always guided him toward opportunities, and he trusted that something awaited him. He just needed to find it.

The Outer Sect Trials

The Emerald Moon Sect was built upon a system of merit and strength. Every three months, the outer sect held trials to determine rankings. These trials were more than just contests; they dictated a disciple's resources, opportunities, and even their future within the sect.

Jiang Yue's challenge wasn't just about personal rivalry—it was a statement to everyone watching.

Wu Tian would have to prove himself once again, this time in front of the entire sect.

Word of his upcoming battle spread quickly, and by nightfall, the sect was buzzing with speculation. Some believed that Jiang Yue would crush him easily. Others, those who had witnessed his fight against Liu Heng, weren't so sure.

Regardless, Wu Tian knew one thing—he couldn't afford to lose.

A Search for Power

The next morning, Wu Tian left the sect grounds, heading toward the Silent Mist Mountains. His instincts told him that something lay hidden there, waiting for him. If he wanted to unlock the Fourth Gate—Iron Marrow, he needed something more than just training.

The mist was thick, rolling between the trees like a living entity. The deeper he ventured, the heavier the air became. A presence lingered here, something ancient and undisturbed.

His heart pounded in his chest. He was close.

Then, he saw it—a cave entrance hidden behind a waterfall, its mouth dark and foreboding.

Wu Tian stepped forward, feeling the weight of destiny settle upon his shoulders.

Whatever lay within would determine his next step.