The grand hall of the Jade Cloud Pavilion buzzed with energy. Cultivators from all over the region had gathered, each one eager to network and witness the talents of their peers. The arrival of Zhao Shan and Qin Yulan, two renowned prodigies, brought a fresh surge of excitement, and the crowd immediately swarmed them, eager to curry favor and gain their attention.

Wuji, aware of the importance of connections in the world of cultivation, moved towards them as well, hoping to make a favorable impression. He waited for a lull in the flurry of greetings, then stepped forward with a respectful bow.

"Greetings, Senior Brother Zhao and Senior Sister Qin," he said, his tone humble yet confident. Though he was close in age to both of them, Wuji knew the importance of hierarchy and strength in the cultivation world. Respecting those stronger than him, even by a small margin, was essential to maintaining harmony and avoiding unnecessary conflicts.

Zhao Shan nodded, offering Wuji a small smile. "Brother Wuji," he greeted warmly. "You've made quite the impression in the Sect Exam. Elder Bai has never chosen a disciple—until now."

Qin Yulan, her serene beauty tempered by a perceptive gaze, added, "Though we did not see your combat test, we've heard about your performance in the combat test. Quite remarkable for someone just starting their cultivation journey."

Wuji felt a surge of pride at their praise but maintained his humble demeanor. "Thank you, Senior Brother and Senior Sister. I still have much to learn, especially compared to cultivators as talented as you both."

Zhao Shan chuckled, clapping Wuji on the shoulder. "Modesty is a good trait, but don't underestimate yourself. We’re all on this journey together. Besides, I sense there's more to you than meets the eye."

Wuji simply nodded, his respect for Zhao Shan growing. It was rare to find someone of his status who showed such humility and warmth.

Before they could continue, a hush fell over the room. All eyes turned to the entrance as Wei Jun made his entrance. Tall and confident, his Heaven-grade spiritual root had already earned him a near-mythical status among the young cultivators. He acknowledged a few nods and greetings, his gaze scanning the room before it settled on Wuji, Zhao Shan, and Qin Yulan standing together.

A small smile curved on Wei Jun's lips as he approached them. Wuji quickly bowed, greeting him. "Good evening, Senior Brother Wei."

Wei Jun waved his hand, chuckling. "No need for the formalities, Brother Wuji. Just call me Brother Jun."

Wuji hesitated, feeling the weight of respect his peers held for Wei Jun. "No… but…"

Wei Jun shook his head, his tone leaving no room for argument. "No buts, Wuji. If I say it's alright, then it is. Now, none of that 'Senior' nonsense."

After a moment’s pause, Wuji relented, a small smile forming on his face. "Alright, Brother Jun."

Wei Jun’s eyes twinkled with approval. "Much better." He then added, "I’ve heard that you performed well in the combat test. Not only did you demonstrate great skill, but also the ability to adapt quickly."

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Wuji tried to downplay it, scratching the back of his head. "Ah, it was nothing too difficult."

"Don't be so modest," Wei Jun countered, chuckling. "Adapting and learning in the heat of combat takes insight. Not many have the ability to strategize and analyze their opponent in the middle of a fight—especially during an exam. You’ve got a talent for it."

“Thank you, Brother Jun,” Wuji replied, feeling a warmth at the compliment.

Wei Jun gave him a pat on the shoulder. "I’d love to spar with you sometime. I just broke through to the 3rd level of the Body Refinement Realm before the exams, so I’m still getting used to the new strength. But when you start cultivating, let’s have a match."

Wuji nodded, excitement stirring in his chest. "I’d be honored. A spar with you would be an invaluable experience."

Their conversation continued, the four of them sharing insights and stories from the sect exams and their personal journeys. Zhao Shan and Qin Yulan greeted Wei Jun warmly, their camaraderie evident. The lively banter was interrupted by Han Bao, the evening's organizer, who arrived with his usual charismatic flair. He bowed to the group, greeting them all before turning his attention to the crowd.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he called, his voice carrying authority that quickly silenced the hall. “Tonight, we celebrate the promise of a new generation of talent. And what better way to do so than by showcasing the remarkable abilities gathered here?”

A murmur of excitement rippled through the crowd as Han Bao continued, “I propose a display of skills! Let each of you step forward and share something unique, something that reflects the hard work and potential of those present tonight.”

An eager cheer came from a young cultivator nearby, who raised his cup in agreement. “I’m all for it, Brother Han! Let’s see who’s got the talent to stand out tonight!”

Han Bao gestured to the center of the hall, where a platform was quickly cleared by the attendants. "Let’s begin! Who would like to volunteer first?"

A young disciple stepped forward, bowing respectfully to the audience. With a concentrated expression, he channeled his qi, forming a glowing sphere of energy in his hands. His movements were smooth and controlled, creating intricate patterns in the air as the qi swirled around him. The crowd murmured in appreciation at his skill, the sphere glowing faintly brighter with each movement.

One by one, other cultivators stepped forward, each displaying their unique talents. Some performed powerful martial arts routines, their moves crisp and full of intent. Others demonstrated their artistic skills—one girl painted an ethereal scene with qi-infused ink, her brush strokes bringing a landscape to life in moments. Another recited poetry with such emotional depth that the audience was momentarily entranced.

Wuji watched with admiration, clapping along with the others. He had known that talent was abundant here, but witnessing it firsthand only deepened his respect for the cultivators of this world.

Then, as the murmurs began to die down, Wu Lin stepped forward. His broad shoulders and confident stance immediately drew attention, his aura exuding both power and arrogance. Wu Lin’s eyes scanned the crowd, lingering briefly on Wuji before he addressed the audience with a small smirk.

He raised his spear, holding it up with pride as whispers of excitement filled the room. It was clear that he was about to perform the Spear of the Soaring Clouds—a technique renowned within the Azure Cloud Sect for its grace and power.

Wu Lin began his performance, his movements smooth and precise as he twirled the spear in sweeping arcs. Qi radiated from the weapon, forming faint trails in the air that resembled swirling clouds. Each strike was swift, each motion flawless, his powerful build moving with unexpected agility. It was as if he were painting with his spear, each stroke leaving a lingering impression.

Wuji watched closely, arms folded, studying the technique. Despite their earlier hostility, he had to admit Wu Lin’s skill was remarkable. The Azure Cloud Sect’s techniques were clearly formidable, and Wu Lin embodied them with exceptional finesse.

As Wu Lin finished, he returned to a proud stance, his spear held high. The room erupted in applause, and Wu Lin basked in the admiration, a smug smile crossing his face. His eyes, however, soon fell back on Wuji.

“Wuji,” he called out, voice dripping with mockery, “why don’t you show us some of your skills? I’d love to see what made Elder Bai choose you as his disciple.”