Beast and Blade

The morning dawned pale and gray, a thin mist clinging to the grounds as the disciples gathered again in the arena. The cold air was thick with anticipation, every heartbeat echoing louder than the last.

Around me, whispers floated—some nervous, some defiant. Everyone was waiting for their name to be called, for their trial to begin.

The elders stood silently on a raised platform, their eyes cold and unreadable.

Suddenly, a voice rang out: "Lin Wei."

A young man, slightly taller and more muscular than most, stepped forward. His jaw was set, but I saw the flicker of uncertainty in his eyes.

The gate to one side of the arena creaked open, revealing a snarling beast—a large wolf-like creature with dark fur matted and eyes glowing faintly red. It snarled, its breath steaming in the cold morning air.

Lin Wei squared his shoulders, drawing a pair of short swords from his back.

The crowd fell silent.

The beast lunged.

Lin Wei dodged quickly, slashing a blade across its flank. The wolf yelped but came back faster, claws scraping stone.

Back and forth they fought—Lin Wei agile and sharp, the beast fierce and relentless.

A deep growl escaped the wolf as it lunged again, knocking Lin Wei off balance. He hit the ground hard, rolling away just in time to avoid a savage bite.

The fight wore on, sweat and blood mingling on the dust-covered stones.

Finally, with a cry of effort, Lin Wei plunged his sword into the beast's neck. It staggered, then collapsed with a final shudder.

A roar went up from the crowd.

Lin Wei, chest heaving, wiped blood from his brow and raised his swords in victory.

The elders nodded approvingly.

The gate closed behind the fallen beast, and a hush fell once more.

Then, my name was called.

My heart thundered as I stepped forward, every sense sharpening.

The trial had truly begun.