Chapter 68: The Disciple's Journey Begins

Ethan stepped into the bustling training yard of the Lingjian Sect, his presence immediately catching the attention of the disciples and instructors alike. Among the crowd, an instructor named Xi Cao approached him with great respect, his voice filled with reverence.

"Master Ethan, it is an honor to have a Martial King grace our training yard with your presence. We are truly humbled by your visit," Xi Cao said, bowing deeply.

The training yard fell into a respectful silence as the disciples halted their exercises, their gazes fixed upon Ethan. Among them was Meng Meng, the enthusiastic outer disciple who had expressed her desire to become Ethan's disciple. She couldn't contain her excitement and ran up to Ethan, calling out, "Good morning, Master!"

Xi Cao swiftly scolded Meng Meng, his voice filled with reprimand. "Meng Meng, show proper respect in the presence of Master Ethan. Control your enthusiasm!"

Ethan raised a hand, halting Xi Cao's scolding. He smiled kindly at Meng Meng, acknowledging her eagerness. "It's alright, Instructor Xi Cao. Meng Meng's enthusiasm is refreshing. Please, let her be."

Turning his attention to Meng Meng, Ethan spoke with a gentle tone. "Meng Meng, I have decided to take you as my disciple. It is my belief that with dedication and guidance, you have the potential to surpass even your own expectations."

Meng Meng's eyes widened in sheer joy and disbelief. She could hardly contain her excitement as she thanked Ethan profusely, a wide smile illuminating her face.

However, amidst the joy, a voice of dissent rang out from the crowd. A young disciple, filled with jealousy and resentment, shouted, "Why would a talentless commoner like Meng Meng deserve to be taught by a Martial King? It's a waste of your time, Master Ethan!"

Ethan's eyes narrowed, a glint of anger flashing in his gaze. He raised a hand to silence the murmurs and spoke in a firm voice. "Every individual possesses unique potential and worth. It is not our place to judge or belittle one another. As a master, it is my duty to guide and nurture the talents and aspirations of my disciples, regardless of their background or perceived limitations."

The training yard grew silent once more, the weight of Ethan's words resonating deeply within the disciples. The boy who had spoken out, his face flushed with embarrassment and regret, quickly lowered his head in shame.

Ethan approached the disgruntled disciple, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Remember, true strength lies not only in martial prowess, but also in compassion, respect, and the ability to uplift others. Let this be a lesson for all of us to recognize the value in every individual and to foster an environment of support and encouragement."

With that, Ethan turned his attention back to Meng Meng, a reassuring smile gracing his lips. "Meng Meng, let us embark on this journey together. With dedication, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence, there are no limits to what we can achieve."

Meng Meng's eyes shone with determination and gratitude. She bowed deeply to Ethan, vowing to give her all in their training. The other disciples, witnessing this display of humility and growth, felt a renewed sense of purpose and respect for their fellow disciple.

As Ethan and Meng Meng began their discipleship journey, the training yard once again filled with the sounds of dedicated practitioners, their training fueled by newfound inspiration and the belief that greatness could be achieved through unity and guidance.

To be continued...