As the sun reached its zenith, casting a golden glow over the bustling Outer City, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao navigated the winding streets with a sense of purpose. Moving swiftly, they traversed the elegantly arched bridge spanning between the Outer and Inner Cities. The anticipation of reaching the Eternal Daoist Sect's branch pavilion lent speed to their steps. They had prepared for this moment, familiarizing themselves with the location beforehand, ensuring no time was wasted in their quest.

Upon their arrival, the pavilion unfurled before them like a scroll of ancient wisdom, its towering presence a beacon for those seeking the path of cultivation. The nine-story structure rose majestically, its architecture a testament to the harmonious blend of human ingenuity and the natural world. The gardens surrounding the pavilion were a riot of colors and scents, with blooming lotuses and aged pines enriching the air with their perfume. The main gate, guarded by stone lions, welcomed them with inscriptions of Daoist teachings, embodying the flow and resilience of water.

Stepping through the gate, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao were enveloped in the serene atmosphere of the pavilion. The meticulously crafted building, with its jade columns and polished floors, reflected the sect's dedication to balance, harmony, and the nurturing of its disciples. The air hummed with Qi, palpable in its calmness, infusing them with a sense of peace and belonging.

A female disciple, embodying the calmness of the pavilion, greeted them at the entrance. "May I see your tokens and registration forms, please?" she inquired, her tone reflecting the composed and disciplined nature of the sect.

Handing over their tokens and forms, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao watched as she verified their details. With a nod of approval, she returned the items, her smile welcoming. "Welcome to the Eternal Daoist Sect's branch pavilion. I'm glad to have you here. May I know which divisions you wish to be examined for?"

Without hesitation, Feng Hao answered, "I wish to join the martial division." His voice held a resolve, reflective of his path and aspirations within the sect.

The disciple acknowledged his choice with a nod. "The Division of Martial Enlightenment," she clarified, her tone imbued with respect for the division's path. "The examination involves combat against golems of varying levels, a true test of your martial prowess and adaptability."

As they stood before the disciple, the pavilion's serene atmosphere enveloping them, Zhang Liwei's curiosity about the combat golems piqued. "Could you tell me more about these combat golems? I've never encountered one before," he inquired, his interest evident in his voice.

The disciple, her expression reflecting patience and understanding, delved into an explanation. "Combat golems are crafted from various materials and powered by a core that dictates their movements. Their complexity varies greatly; the simplest ones are made of wood and capable of only basic movements, while the higher-level golems are quite lifelike and formidable in combat," she elaborated, her eyes sparkling with the excitement.

Zhang Liwei listened, fascinated by the notion of facing such a unique opponent. "So, facing higher-level golems increases one's chances in the examination?" he asked, seeking to understand the rules of the challenge fully.

"Indeed," the disciple confirmed. "Though, displaying special talents or strategies against any level of golem can also catch the presiding elder's attention. Ultimately, it's the elder who evaluates and decides, taking into consideration more than just how far one progresses against the golems."

Feng Hao, absorbing every word, nodded in understanding. It was clear that the examination was as much about showcasing one's innate talent and adaptability as it was about endurance and strength.

The disciple turned to Zhang Liwei, asking, "And you? Have you settled on applying for the same division?"

Zhang Liwei paused, conflicted emotions playing across his features. "I find myself divided between pursuing the martial path, or the division focused on geomancy and formations. I still have some deliberating left to decide where I feel most drawn."

"Ah, you're considering the Division of Natural Harmony," the disciple said, her tone brightening. She proceeded to explain, "This division delves into the study of the world's elements—fauna, flora, land, water, and the Qi that flows through them all. Understanding these relationships allows disciples to manipulate energy for geomancy or formations. It's a path requiring a deep resonance with nature and a keen intellect for complex theories."

Zhang Liwei felt a swell of intrigue as the disciple detailed the Division of Natural Harmony. In his youth, he had spent endless days buried among scrolls and ancient codices, memorizing theories and customs, absorbing knowledge like a sponge. Elders of the village had often commended his studiousness, marveling at his tenacious devotion to academic pursuits. Now, the thought of blending that rigorous book learning with mystical secrets of the elements, decoding the unseen mechanisms that govern heaven and nature’s realm...Zhang Liwei suppressed a grin as elation soared within him. Zhang Liwei's eyes glinted brightly, as if glimpsing his destiny.

Sensing his growing interest, the disciple suggested, "Perhaps you could try the examination for the Division of Natural Harmony first. It would give you a clearer picture of what the division entails. If you find it doesn't resonate with you as expected, you could discuss attempting the martial division's examination with the presiding elder."

"The sect aims to find the best fit for each disciple, allowing for flexibility in the selection process," she reassured him that the sect understood the dilemma of young talents unsure of their path. "Let me explain the process as well—each division holds examinations on a separate floor of the pavilion. Those interested in the Division of Martial Enlightenment will need to proceed to the second floor. For the Division of Natural Harmony, you would take the stairs up to the fifth floor."

Grateful for her guidance, Zhang Liwei thanked the disciple, feeling the weight of uncertainty lifted off his shoulders. The decision seemed less daunting now, with a clearer path laid out before him.

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The disciple smiled warmly, her well-wishes sincere. "I hope to see you both succeed and join us as co-disciples. The journey is challenging, but the rewards of growth and knowledge are unparalleled."

Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao nodded, their resolve strengthened by her words. The examination loomed ahead, a gateway to their future within the Eternal Daoist Sect, and they stepped forward with determination and hope.

Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao, climbing the grand staircase of the pavilion, shared nods of encouragement, their paths diverging as Feng Hao stepped onto the bustling second floor. Zhang Liwei couldn't help but notice the throng of aspirants gathered there. "Many seek the path of martial might," he thought to himself.

Reaching the fifth floor, Zhang Liwei felt the atmosphere shift. The wide hall centered on a refined daoist elder robed in muted colors, an air of scholarly refinement surrounding him. His attire was modest yet dignified. Stroking his neatly groomed beard, the sage's tranquil expression shone with sharp intelligence and sagacity. Though he simply sat at an unadorned table, everything about the man bespoke his focus on intellectual pursuits rather than external qualities. His eyes were pools of clarity and insight, encapsulating a spirit deeply intertwined with the unseen movements of energy and nature.

As Zhang Liwei approached the examination area, the elderly daoist, seated at the center of the hall, beckoned him over with a gentle wave of his hand. "Young cultivator, show me your token and registration form," the elder asked with a tone rich in wisdom and patience. Zhang Liwei, with a deep sense of respect, extended both hands, presenting his token and form to the daoist.

The elder scrutinized the items briefly before looking up, his gaze piercing yet kind. "Have you had any prior experience with formations and geomancy?" he inquired, his voice carrying an undercurrent of genuine curiosity.

"No, Elder. I have not," Zhang Liwei admitted, his voice steady but filled with an eagerness to learn.

The elder nodded approvingly, a smile playing on his lips as if to say, "Fear not, the path of knowledge is open to all who possess the talent and desire to learn." He then extended a welcoming hand towards the vacant tables and cushions arranged before him, an invitation for Zhang Liwei to take a seat among the other aspirants who had gathered to try their aptitude.

Finding a seat near the elder, Zhang Liwei took a moment to observe his fellow aspirants. The diversity among them was striking—he noticed some as young as ten years old next to youths matching his own age. It was evident that conventional boundaries of cultivation initiation did not apply here. The sect seemed to welcome all with intrinsic potential or predestined fate, regardless of their current abilities.

As he settled into the quiet anticipation of the examination, the sound of approaching footsteps diverted his attention. Turning, he caught sight of a young cultivator whose presence seemed to radiate a tranquility and elegance that seemed completely foreign to Zhang Liwei’s experience. The cultivator’s pristine robe and neatly-held folding fan marked him as one of noble blood and prestigious heritage. Zhang Liwei found himself momentarily captivated, never before witnessing someone who exuded such an innate gracefulness and dignified presence.

The moment the young man entered, the elderly daoist at the center of the hall, who had maintained a serene demeanor, brightened noticeably, his expression morphing into a welcoming smile. The young man, equally surprised and respectful upon seeing the elder, quickened his pace across the floor.

With a profound bow, the young cultivator greeted, "Elder Hao, it is an honor to find you overseeing our examination today."

Recognizing the elder as Elder Hao, Zhang Liwei deduced his high rank within the sect. Elder Hao, with a nod of acknowledgment, responded warmly, "Ah, Chen Zhiyuan, it is indeed a pleasure to see you choose our path. How fares your father, Supreme Adviser Chen?"

Chen Zhiyuan straightened, a respectful smile on his face. "He is well, Elder. He sends his regards and hopes to share a drink with you soon."

Elder Hao's smile broadened at the mention. "That would be most delightful. We must arrange it." He then gestured towards an empty table nearby. "Please, take a seat there, Chen Zhiyuan."

Chen Zhiyuan gave Elder Hao a respectful nod before settling into his seat. Zhang Liwei noticed the refined cultivator immediately close his eyes, seeming to center his mind in meditation as the examination neared. Witnessing this subtle exchange, Zhang Liwei grasped the profound implication—Chen Zhiyuan hails from the Chen Clan, a noble lineage rivaling the prestigious Li Clan that Li Yunxian descended from. Their family held weighty influence in Celestial Bloom City, explaining Chen Zhiyuan's cultivated refinement.

Zhang Liwei's attention shifted to a young girl in the room, her simplicity standing out amidst the crowd. Dressed in plain linen, she contrasted sharply with the other participants, many of whom displayed the distinct characteristics of their cultivation paths or their families' noble heritage. She brought to mind his own sister, Zhang Ning, igniting memories of joyful laughter, shared secrets, and the warmth of home. This reflection brought a pang of regret for the moments missed due to his dedication to cultivation. "Should I not succeed, it may be a sign to revisit home," he mused, a resolve settling in his heart.

Noticing the young girl's discomfort under his lost gaze, Zhang Liwei offered a gentle, apologetic smile before swiftly averting his eyes. Zhang Liwei continued to survey the room, noting that among the roughly thirty participants, many were of the same Radiant Foundation Nexus realm as himself, yet some possessed Qi auras that outshone his. This observation underscored the realization of his modest position within the cultivation world despite his recent breakthrough. Reflecting on his master's teachings, Zhang Liwei appreciated that Master Yan's guidance extended beyond mere cultivation; it encompassed the essential mindset and moral integrity necessary to navigate the complexities of power and status. He closed his eyes, centering himself for the examination ahead as the afternoon progressed towards evening.

As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the hall now filled with 82 eager participants, Elder Hao stood up, his presence commanding the room's attention. "Greetings, young aspirants," Elder Hao began, his voice resonating with authority and warmth. "I am Hao Jiafu, the second elder of the Division of Natural Harmony."

He continued, "Our division is dedicated to achieving a profound harmony with nature, embodying the essence of becoming 'one with nature' as we pursue the Dao. For those among you who join us, your journey will be centered on mastering the arts of geomancy and formations."

Elder Hao paused, ensuring his words sank in before adding, "However, this path does not mean neglecting your cultivation and martial prowess. These skills are fundamental, serving to strengthen your connection to nature and enhance your capabilities within the division."

Zhang Liwei, listening intently, felt a surge of alignment with Elder Hao's words. The vision of cultivating in harmony with nature, balanced with the development of martial skills, mirrored his own aspirations.

"This balanced approach to cultivation," Elder Hao concluded, "ensures that while you may focus on a particular aspect, overall growth remains our collective goal."

As Zhang Liwei listened, a sense of clarity and purpose filled him, reaffirming his decision to pursue this path within the Eternal Daoist Sect. The journey ahead promised challenges and learning, but Zhang Liwei felt ready to embrace it all, guided by the principles that had led him here.