Chapter 52
The piercing scream of the eagle reverberated through the expansive sky, a haunting echo that seized the scattered Outer Disciples amidst the cool, marble expanse of the Central Courtyard.
As the resonant cry reached their ears, it served as an urgent call to action, prompting them to swiftly vacate the arena that boasted fifteen small fighting zones at its heart.
Within each designated arena, Official Disciples stood tall, their martial robes adorned with distinguished dark blue stripes, a visual proclamation of their elevated status.
Breaking the tranquil silence, Elder Tan's voice cut through the air, its authoritative tone carrying across the courtyard like a wave. "This final test will serve as a crucible for your skills."
"Two Official Disciples shall assess each of you - one as an adversary to scrutinize your martial prowess, and the other to evaluate your overall abilities." Elder Tan's words hung in the air, the weight of the impending challenge sinking into the consciousness of the Outer Disciples who were still processing the information.
"Step forward, first wave!" Elder Tan's command lacked specificity, causing more than fifteen disciples to eagerly tread onto the smooth, cold surface of the marble floor, initiating a ripple of chaos.
"This is a mess," muttered a frustrated disciple, his brows furrowing in dismay.
"We outnumber the spots available," remarked another disciple, shooting accusatory glares at those around him, a clear manifestation of the growing tension.
The situation spiraled further out of control as more Outer Disciples joined the fray, each vying for an opportunity against an Official Disciple.
Amidst the mounting chaos, a voice cut through the clamor with a calm demeanor. "Let's resolve this peacefully, without resorting to infighting," suggested the voice, momentarily quelling the discord.
But not all were inclined towards peace. An arrogant Outer Disciple retorted with a disdainful sneer, shoving another disciple aside. "Only the strongest deserve to advance. Get lost; that spot is mine."
"Don't you dare touch me!" snapped the offended disciple, his fists clenched in anger. The confrontation ignited a chain reaction, drawing more disciples into the fray and escalating tensions within the courtyard.
Amidst the tumult, Ji Wuye's perceptive eyes scanned the scene, a chuckle escaping his lips. "This is the Jianghu I know," he thought, observing the escalating disorder.
The unspoken competition for the coveted spots intensified as the Outer Disciples jostled for a chance to face an Official Disciple in the evaluation process.
"If it weren't for the Tower's interference, the Jianghu would be a realm filled with martial artists seeking fame, clashing at every opportunity," he mused, his eyes reflecting the profound truth he witnessed amidst the chaos.
Ji Wuye's gaze flitted between the vivid images of his past life and the present turmoil unfolding in the courtyard. The rush of excitement coursed through him, but a sobering realization tempered his enthusiasm - this thrill would inevitably wane as they ascended the Tower.
"Cease this bickering, all of you!" Elder Xia's voice finally cut through the chaos, a visible display of frustration evident as he massaged his forehead, attempting to quell the unrest.
"Retrieve the data and identify each disciple by name!" he barked at an Inner Disciple standing beside him. Reluctantly, the feuding Outer Disciples begrudgingly stepped back from the contested marble floor.
A snort of derision sounded in the background, catching Elder Xia's attention. He turned to glare at Elder Tan, who, in a futile attempt to stifle his laughter, covered his mouth and squinted his eyes in amusement.
"You knew this chaos was inevitable, Elder Tan. Why didn't you provide an explanation earlier?" Elder Xia confronted him, the veins on his forehead pulsating with irritation.
Elder Tan, after a brief chuckle, took a deep breath, removing his hand and letting his smile fade. "What do you mean, Brother Xia? How could I have foreseen this? This is my first time participating..." His words trailed off, and Elder Xia was about to refute when he noticed a tinge of sadness in Elder Tan's expression.
"Well, I hope this sheds light on the tense situation. Many disciples appeared rigid earlier, traumatized and stressed about the looming Tower challenge," Elder Tan explained, his gaze shifting to the lively scene below, where Outer Disciples engaged in animated chatter.
He even caught sight of that 'brat' wearing a smile, bringing a subtle sense of relief.
Elder Xia remained silent, observing the unfolding scene with a contemplative air.
Amidst the gradually settling chaos, Official Disciples commenced calling out the names of the surviving Outer Disciples from the first test, adhering to the order of their entry into the sect.
Elder Xia's attention fixated on the same disciple who had captured Elder Tan's interest - Ji Wuye.
"That brat... I can't believe he has improved so rapidly," Elder Xia muttered, his astonishment evident in the furrow of his brows.
Elder Tan glanced at him, a hopeful glint in his eyes. "So, Brother Xia, is there no chance for him to remain in the sect?" he inquired, his voice tinged with anticipation.
Elder Xia's expression became complex, revealing neither affirmation nor any particular reaction, maintaining the same stoicism he displayed whenever Ji Wuye's name was brought up.
When Elder Xia finally spoke, it was with a sigh. "No, I cannot permit it. It would be unjust to everyone else. Even if he succeeds in both tests, and even if he were..."
His voice trailed off at the mention of 'her,' casting a sudden shadow over both him and Elder Tan, plunging them into a heavy, unspoken silence.
This moment hung in the air until an Inner Disciple approached, notifying them that all Outer Disciples were now assembled on the stage and prepared to commence the test.
Elder Tan composed himself, straightening his back. Stepping forward, he cast his gaze upon the Outer Disciples, who looked at him with a mix of respect and excitement. "The final test begins!" he declared.
At his proclamation, all Official Disciples on the stage turned to face the Outer Disciples, and both groups advanced.
Meanwhile, the Official Disciples stationed outside the small arenas readied their quill pens and paper to document the unfolding proceedings.
"But the decision might change if the Patriarch gets involved. Sect rules are not easily ignored," Elder Tan was taken aback by the unexpected words from Elder Xia behind him.
However, what truly left him astounded was the sound of approaching footsteps and the sight of the Patriarch making their way towards them.
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