The morning breeze delicately carried the scent of spring as it gently caressed the awakening world. The air was imbued with the refreshing fragrance of blossoming flowers and the earth, nourished by the gentle rain of the previous night, exuded a subtle aroma of rejuvenation.
Nature seemed to come alive as the soft zephyr whispered through the trees, rustling their tender leaves and carrying with it the promise of a new day. The gentle touch of the breeze brushed against the skin, invigorating the senses and stirring a sense of tranquility.
In the midst of this enchanting atmosphere, Fang Zheng guided his brother towards the clan pavilion, the anticipation of the forthcoming awakening ceremony hung in the air. Yet, deep within him, a familiar shadow loomed—the constant reminder of his elder brother's exceptional abilities. From an early age, Fang Yuan had demonstrated astonishing feats, achieving milestones far beyond what was considered ordinary. He effortlessly spoke at a mere three months old, walked at four, and composed poetry by the tender age of five. His brilliance cast a daunting shadow over Fang Zheng's own accomplishments, fueling a constant stream of comparisons and undermining his self-esteem.
The unfair treatment extended beyond their home, where their aunt and uncle provided starkly different care for each brother. While Fang Yuan was granted the company of Shen Cui, a young and beautiful personal maid, Fang Zheng was assigned an elderly servant, emphasizing the disparities that further fueled his feelings of inadequacy.
The weight of these comparisons burdened Fang Zheng's every step, perpetuating a ceaseless internal struggle as he measured himself against his brother's exceptional achievements. Trapped in the shadows of Fang Yuan's brilliance, he yearned to break free and forge his own path, one that would validate his worth and showcase his unique potential.
As they approached the bustling clan pavilion, brimming with excitement and anticipation, Fang Zheng found a glimmer of determination within himself. Perhaps this awakening ceremony held the promise of a turning point, a chance for him to confront his inner demons and transcend the limitations that had haunted him for so long. With unwavering resolve, he made a solemn vow to prove to himself and others that he, too, possessed the capacity for greatness.
As they stepped into the vibrant pavilion, the energy of the gathering enveloped Fang Zheng. In the midst of the bustling crowd, he steeled himself for the challenges that awaited him.
A multitude of over a hundred fifteen-year-old youths assembled before the majestic clan pavilion, positioned at the heart of the bustling village. The pavilion, an architectural marvel standing tall with its five stories and sharply slanted roofs, stood as a formidable presence, guarded with utmost diligence. A spacious square lay before the pavilion, while within its walls resided the revered shrine of the Gu Yue ancestor memorial tablets. Throughout the generations, the clan heads had called the pavilion home, utilizing it as a gathering place for major ceremonies, important discussions, and meetings of the esteemed clan elders. It served as the central authority of the entire village.
"Excellent, all of you have arrived punctually. Today marks the momentous occasion of the Awakening Ceremony, a pivotal turning point in your lives. I shall not burden you with lengthy words, simply follow me," declared the elder from the academy, his snowy-white hair and beard a testament to his wisdom and experience. He exuded an infectious enthusiasm as he led the group of young teenagers into the pavilion.
To their surprise, instead of ascending, they were guided downstairs through the entrance of a grand hall. Descending a meticulously constructed stone ladder, they entered an enigmatic underground cave. The sight that greeted their eyes was nothing short of breathtaking—stalactites adorned the cavern, glimmering with iridescent hues that cast a spellbinding light upon their youthful faces.
The air crackled with anticipation as the youths found themselves immersed in the enchanting beauty of the subterranean realm. This underground cave held a significant.
Amidst the bustling crowd, Fang Zheng blended in seamlessly, his eyes keenly surveying the unfolding scene. Deep within his heart, a silent reflection took place. He delved into the history that had shaped their clan, a tale spanning hundreds of years.
Long ago, the Gu Yue clan had embarked on a journey, leaving behind the central lands to find solace in the embrace of Qing Mao Mountain, nestled within the South Border. It was a momentous migration that brought them to this very place. And it was within the depths of this underground cave that their ancestors had stumbled upon a remarkable discovery—an ethereal spirit spring.
The mystical spring bestowed upon the Gu Yue clan an abundant supply of primeval stones, a precious resource that held immeasurable value. It became the very foundation upon which the Gu Yue village thrived and prospered. This hidden source of power, concealed within the heart of the cave, had nurtured generations of the clan and played an instrumental role in shaping their destiny.
As they continued their descent, their footsteps echoing in the darkness, the faint sounds of trickling water reached their ears. After navigating a corner, they were greeted by a breathtaking sight—a wide underground river spanning three zhang in width. The colorful lights of the stalactites had faded away, but in the obscurity, the river emanated a soft blue glow, resembling a celestial river in the night sky.
Flowing from the depths of the cave, the crystal-clear waters revealed a mesmerizing underwater world teeming with fish, aquatic plants, and the glistening sands beneath. On the opposite bank, a sea of moon orchids blossomed in meticulous cultivation. Their delicate petals, tinged with shades of blue and pink, resembled crescent moons, while their jade-like stems and radiant centers shimmered like pearls. Against the backdrop of darkness, the flower sea appeared as a vast expanse of bluish-green carpet adorned with countless glistening pearls.
Fang Zheng, aware of the significance, understood that these moon orchids held great importance to the Gu Yue Clan, serving as a vital nourishment for the Gu creatures. This expansive flower sea stood as the clan's most treasured cultivation medium.
"Woah, it's so beautiful!"
"I've never seen anything like it!"
The scene evoked a profound sense of wonder and awe among the young participants, their eyes shimmering with excitement and anticipation. The magnitude of the moment hung in the air as the elder's voice resonated with authority and wisdom.
"Alright, listen closely as I call your names," the elder began, his words carrying the weight of significance. The youths leaned in, their hearts pounding with anticipation. "Those whose names are called must embark on a courageous journey across this river, aiming to reach the opposite bank. Remember, the farther you venture, the greater your innate talent will be perceived. Your future will be illuminated with brighter prospects."
The gravity of the challenge became clear as the elder outlined the grading system. "To provide you with a frame of reference, allow me to explain the grading scale. Those who traverse less than 10 steps will be deemed to have no significant cultivation talent. A distance of 10 to 20 steps signifies a D-grade talent. 20 to 30 steps denotes a C-grade talent, while 30 to 40 steps represents a B-grade talent. And finally, those who achieve a remarkable distance of 40 to 50 steps will be recognized as possessing an A-grade talent."
The youths absorbed this information with fervent determination. They grasped the magnitude of the challenge that lay before them—the opportunity to showcase their true potential and secure a prosperous future. Their minds raced, envisioning the possibilities that awaited them. With resolute voices, they responded in unison, their commitment echoing through the air, affirming their readiness for the task at hand.
Buoyed by their ancestors' tales and the understanding of the journey's significance, they stood poised to make their mark. Fang Zheng, in particular, drew a deep breath, consciously steadying his nerves as he locked eyes with the flowing waters. A sense of purpose surged within him, eclipsing the weight of past comparisons and self-doubt. The river before them beckoned, its currents whispering promises of self-discovery and the unveiling of their true capabilities. With hearts ablaze and eyes fixed on their respective destinies, they prepared to step into the river, poised to carve their own paths toward greatness.
