Chapter 4: The Seven Great Sects

Lush green meadows stretched as far as the eye could see, painting the landscape in vibrant hues of emerald. Tang Jian, a wide-eyed traveler venturing beyond his hometown for the first time, stood in awe of the breathtaking scenery. But it wasn't just the verdant fields that captured his attention; it was the mystical horses pulling the carriage, their majestic presence and ethereal appearance like creatures from a fantastical realm.

Yet, amidst all the wonders he had encountered, it was a mountain in the distance that held Tang Jian spellbound. It stood proudly, shrouded in a veil of mystery, as if guarded by an invisible force that kept all living beings at bay. The allure of that mountain beckoned him, whispering secrets of ancient power and untold tales.

Curiosity burned within Tang Jian, and he turned to the wise elder accompanying him. With a knowing smile, the elder spoke, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "Ah, young Tang Jian, doth the mountain pique thy curiosity?" The words seemed to dance upon the air, drawing Tang Jian closer to the elder's enigmatic wisdom.

Tang Jian nodded eagerly, his gaze fixed upon the mountain. "Indeed, Elder. The mountain holds an otherworldly aura, like no other place I have seen before. What secrets lie within?"

A soft chuckle escaped the elder's lips, his eyes twinkling with ancient knowledge. "That mountain, dear Tang Jian, belongs to a certain elder of Tranquil Dao Valley. Legend speaks of her as a beauty so captivating that even the gods themselves would be entranced. Her porcelain complexion glows with a delicate radiance, as if touched by the divine."

Tang Jian's eyes widened, his imagination swirling with images of the legendary elder. "Tranquil Dao Valley, you say? Is this place not renowned for its grandeur?"

The elder shook his head, a knowing smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Ah, young Tang Jian, do not be so quick to judge. This peak you see before you is but a resting place for the elder, not a reflection of the entire valley. Tranquil Dao Valley holds wonders and secrets beyond imagination, a realm where the pursuit of enlightenment takes precedence."

Tang Jian's gaze shifted, a mischievous glimmer dancing in his eyes, Tang Jian mumbled softly. "Of course, Elder. I asked merely to gauge your knowledge and avoid drawing attention to my true intentions."

A moment of silence passed between them, the elder's wise gaze meeting Tang Jian's. Sensing the young cultivator's hunger for knowledge, the elder's demeanor softened, and he spoke of Tranquil Dao Valley with passion and reverence.

"Tranquil Dao Valley, my young friend, stands as one of the seven great sects in the Eastern continent," the elder began, his voice carrying the weight of ancient traditions. "In the vast Thousand Dao Realm, where over 800 cultivation sects reside, these seven great sects shine as beacons of power and wisdom. Alongside Tranquil Dao Valley, there are the Obsidian Serpent Sect, Crimson Ember Sect, Blood Moon Cult, Frozen Lotus Sect, Crimson Eclipse Syndicate, and Feral Fang Clan. Each possesses its unique dao, forging a path to greatness."

Eyes wide with wonder, Tang Jian absorbed the elder's words, hungering for more knowledge. "And who, Elder, are the mightiest forces that exist beyond the seven great sects?"

A gentle smile curved the elder's lips, his gaze holding a mix of admiration and caution. "Ah, my young friend, the forces you speak of are the Thousand Treasures Pavilion, the Chaos Order Cult, and the Celestial Dao Sect. They stand as pillars of power in the Thousand Dao Realm, but for now, focus on building a stable foundation, for greatness shall come in due time."

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Tang Jian bowed respectfully, gratitude emanating from his every word. "Thank you, Elder, for imparting such invaluable knowledge upon me."

The elder nodded, his gaze lingering on Tang Jian for a moment longer before shifting to the approaching destination. After a journey spanning seven arduous hours, the carriage finally arrived at its intended stop.

Panic seized Tang Jian as realization struck. "Oh no! I have forgotten my luggage," he exclaimed, his voice laced with worry.

The elder, his wisdom ever-present, comforted Tang Jian with a knowing smile. "Fear not, young one. Your family shall send your belongings in due time."

As if on cue, the carriage's door creaked open, revealing a young woman in her twenties. Her grace and courtesy were evident as she extended a warm welcome. "Welcome, Headmaster. Everyone has been eagerly awaiting your arrival."

Tang Jian's eyes widened in realization, finally comprehending the elder's true identity. The elder, now revealed as the headmaster of Azure Dragon Academy, took Tang Jian's hand gently, guiding him out of the carriage.

The sight that unfolded before Tang Jian surpassed even his wildest dreams. Azure Dragon Academy, a masterpiece of architectural brilliance, loomed magnificently before him. Its structures towered with elegance, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant banners that fluttered with a life of their own. The grand halls boasted soaring ceilings, supported by sturdy pillars intricately engraved with ancient symbols, emanating strength and wisdom. Tranquil courtyards and serene water features created a harmonious atmosphere, inspiring cultivation and enlightenment. In that moment, the academy transcended its role as a mere educational institution, becoming a realm of its own.

The elder's voice broke through Tang Jian's awe-stricken thoughts, a hint of satisfaction lacing his words. "Ah, it seems the academy has captured your heart, young one."

Tang Jian, unable to tear his gaze away from the sight before him, nodded in silent agreement, his voice filled with wonder. "Indeed, Elder. Azure Dragon Academy is a realm of beauty and enlightenment."

"Very well," the elder responded, his tone carrying a hint of urgency. "Time is short, and my duties await. Wu Ying, guide our young Tang Jian to his temporary lodgings."

A young lady, named Wu Ying, stepped forward, her grace matching that of the academy. With a polite gesture, she beckoned Tang Jian to follow. And so, their journey through the academy began.

As they traversed the grounds, Tang Jian marveled at the architectural splendor surrounding him. Each step revealed new wonders: tranquil gardens adorned with exotic flowers, bubbling fountains that whispered ancient melodies, and statues of legendary cultivators frozen in time. Every detail seemed meticulously designed to evoke a sense of awe and reverence.

Finally, they arrived at Tang Jian's temporary dormitory. Wu Ying, unlocking the door, revealed a room that, at first glance, appeared modest and unassuming. Tang Jian's heart sank momentarily, his expectations dashed. But Wu Ying, her voice enchanting as ever, reassured him.

"Please, do not be disappointed, junior," Wu Ying said, her voice carrying a soothing melody. "This is a temporary room for those who have yet to pass the entrance exam. Official students enjoy more comfortable accommodations."

Tang Jian nodded, his disappointment replaced by determination. "I understand, senior. I will make the most of this opportunity and prepare diligently for the upcoming exam."

Wu Ying's eyes softened, her enchanting smile lighting up the room. "That is the spirit, junior. The entrance exam, in three days' time, will test your practical skills and physical prowess. Be prepared."

Expressing his gratitude, Tang Jian watched as Wu Ying gracefully departed, leaving him to his thoughts.

As the door closed behind him, Tang Jian found himself alone in the room, exhaustion washing over him. With a resounding bang, he closed the door, sealing himself within the confines of his temporary sanctuary.

He collapsed onto the simple bed, his body weary from the arduous journey. Closing his eyes, his mind drifted, envisioning the grandeur of the academy and the mysteries that awaited him. With a deep breath, he succumbed to the embrace of slumber, knowing that his journey had only just begun.