The sun peeked over the edge of the academy walls, bathing the training ground in a golden hue as excitement buzzed across the Shrek Academy courtyard. Today marked the beginning of the internal disciple trials, an important event that tested both individual and team strength, and would decide access to future resources, missions, and special training.
Tang San adjusted his dark blue training robes and tied his hair back. His expression was calm as always, neither nervous nor overly confident. Though his strength had grown steadily in recent months, he never felt the urge to flaunt it. His second spirit ring, a 700-year-old Spirit Fox ring, had integrated well with his techniques, but it hadn't made him invincible—just more capable and aware of his limits.
Nearby, Xiao Wu bounced excitedly, her braided hair swinging as she stretched. "San-ge, you're going to participate, right?"
Tang San gave a faint smile. "If I want to earn better resources, I have no choice."
"Good! Don't let those loudmouths from the secondary class say you're hiding your abilities again."
Tang San said nothing, but he had indeed heard the whispers. Since joining Shrek, he had kept a low profile. Other students viewed him as odd—talented, yes, but distant. His polite refusals to spar outside of scheduled training had led to misunderstandings.
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Zhao Wuji stood on the platform in front of the gathered students.
"All inner courtyard disciples will go through a three-phase trial: One-on-one sparring, team combat, and a spirit technique assessment. You must win at least two rounds to qualify for the advanced cultivation resources."
Teams were assigned, and names called for the duels.
Tang San's name came up during the second match.
His opponent: Ling Fan, a fellow inner disciple with a Wind Leopard spirit. Fast, aggressive, and holding two spirit rings—one 400-year and one 600-year. He was known for pressuring opponents into surrender through overwhelming speed.
Tang San stepped into the field quietly. Xiao Wu watched from the sidelines, fingers slightly tense.
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The duel began.
Ling Fan wasted no time. A blur of wind surged forward, his first spirit ring glowing brightly. Claws extended as he aimed for Tang San's chest.
Tang San's eyes focused. He moved—not fast enough to dazzle, but just sharp enough to sidestep. His first spirit ring flared, releasing his Control Grass. Blue Silver Grass coiled around Ling Fan's legs, forcing him to stumble.
The crowd murmured. He hadn't used brute strength—only precision and calm counterplay.
Ling Fan growled and activated his second spirit ring, launching a wind-enhanced dash.
Tang San calmly raised his second spirit ring—the fox's charm energy glimmering faintly. His eyes narrowed, and in that instant, Ling Fan's footing faltered. Not from fear—but from confusion. His senses blurred slightly, an illusion briefly distorting his depth perception.
Tang San moved in and restrained him with a controlled burst of Blue Silver Grass.
Match over.
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The next day, the team combat round began. Tang San was paired with Xiao Wu and a spear-wielding earth-element user named Lei Qing.
Their opponent group was more coordinated, but lacked Tang San's calm command. He issued simple instructions, focused on defense and counterattacks.
Though the fight lasted longer, they managed a solid victory.
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By the end of the week, Tang San stood among the top qualifiers—not because he dominated, but because he remained unshaken, tactically aware, and focused. He didn't win by being the strongest, but by being the most prepared.
Grandmaster observed silently from the side of the field, a hint of satisfaction in his eyes. Tang San wasn't blooming like a genius storm, but like a carefully nurtured tree—slow, steady, and unshakably rooted.
Later that evening, Tang San sat beside Xiao Wu under the moonlit tree behind the academy grounds.
"You didn't go all out," she said softly.
"I never do unless I have to," Tang San replied. "Strength shown too early draws unnecessary attention."
Xiao Wu rested her head on his shoulder. "You're always thinking ahead. But just so you know… if they all misunderstand you again, I'll fight them for you."
Tang San chuckled quietly. "Then I'll try not to give them a reason."
The wind passed gently through the leaves, and above them, the stars blinked silently.
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End of Chapter 33