The tranquil mornings at Shrek Academy had a rhythm of their own—birds chirping softly, the rustle of leaves stirred by the breeze, and the distant sounds of cultivators practicing their skills echoed through the vast grounds. Yet beneath this peaceful exterior lay the constant undercurrent of competition and ambition. Every student here was fighting for a place, a name, and power.
Tang San stood quietly near the edge of the training field, his dark eyes calm and observant. Around him, his fox spirits lounged with a relaxed grace, their keen eyes alert, ever watchful of their master's demeanor. Unlike many of the other students who sought immediate results and rushed into training with brash enthusiasm, Tang San moved with deliberate patience. His progress was steady but sure—each day, a little stronger, a little wiser.
His two spirit rings glimmered faintly beneath his skin, their energies mingling quietly with his own soul. The first ring, gained months ago, was a constant source of power and guidance, and the second—the mysterious black stone-infused ring—had become part of him more deeply than anyone knew. Though it had yet to reveal its full potential, Tang San could sense its presence like a slow-burning ember, promising strength in time.
For now, however, the key was restraint and consistent cultivation. His talent, though superior to many, was far from godlike. It was the slow, painstaking effort—day after day of meditation, refining his bloodline, honing his combat instincts—that would build a foundation impossible to shake.
The morning peace was broken by the approach of the Grandmaster. His steps were measured, his expression serious yet composed. "Tang San," he called softly, nodding as he reached him.
Tang San bowed respectfully. "Grandmaster."
"There is a trial approaching," the Grandmaster began, his voice low. "Not a simple test of strength or spirit power, but a challenge that will weigh your determination, your endurance, and your ability to lead others. Many have failed by underestimating what it demands."
Tang San's gaze sharpened. "I will prepare thoroughly."
"You must. The trial will push you to your limits. You will face not just beasts or challenges of cultivation, but situations where your decisions will impact others. Leadership is as important as power."
Tang San's mind flickered briefly to his fox spirits and the few close friends he had here—Xiao Wu, Dai Mubai, and the others. Leadership was a mantle he was learning to bear, quietly but steadily.
The days that followed were a blend of rigorous training and introspection. Tang San focused intently on mastering his spirit rings. He could feel the black stone's essence blending with his spirit energy, making the ring more attuned to his cultivation. Absorbing spirit energy grew easier, and though his talent improved gradually, the progress was unmistakable.
His Blood Refinement technique, though demanding, was becoming more natural. Each time he invoked it, his physical strength edged higher—not in overwhelming leaps, but in consistent increments. His body was growing stronger, more resilient, capable of sustaining longer battles.
One late afternoon, as the sun dipped toward the horizon and cast long shadows across the academy grounds, Xiao Wu approached him. Her eyes held concern and warmth. "You work too hard," she chided gently, stepping beside him.
Tang San smiled faintly. "If I don't push forward, I'll fall behind. But… I appreciate you looking out for me."
Their relationship had blossomed quietly over time—moments like these, where unspoken feelings simmered beneath calm surfaces. Tang San wasn't emotionless. Far from it. He felt deeply, especially for those he cared about, though he often kept those feelings guarded. He knew the road ahead would be difficult, and vulnerability could be a weakness.
But in Xiao Wu's presence, he allowed himself a small respite from the relentless pursuit of power.
The night was cool, the stars bright and steady. Tang San sat cross-legged beneath a large tree, meditating as his fox spirits curled around him protectively. He felt the steady flow of spirit energy within, the pulse of his rings, and the subtle presence of the soul bone growing within him.
Despite the challenges ahead, a quiet confidence settled over him. This path was his alone to walk, but it was not lonely. He had allies, strength, and resolve.
The day of the trial dawned clear and crisp. Tang San stood among the gathered students, his expression focused but calm. The trial would demand everything he had and more.
As the gong sounded, echoing across the academy, Tang San stepped forward, ready to face the tests—knowing that each struggle was a stepping stone toward true mastery.