Preparing for the test

Positioned on the highest flight of marble steps that lead from the training hall to the lower part of the courtyard, Han Xuelian clasped his hands behind his back as he stood before the multiple aligned rows of guest disciples.

Standing to the right of him was Han Yijun and to the left of him, Han Yongrui.

The guest disciples invited from each of the seven major clans and a few privileged sub-clans numbered to a hundred. But at the conclusion of it all, only a few would earn the honour of enlisting in the ranks of the Emperor's personal guard.

"Welcome to Xue Ling Ridge, Northern region of the Han Clan's estate," the Grandmaster announced, his voice regal and projected at the right tone to ensure that he was heard clearly. "I trust that our morning hospitalities were to your liking and replenished your strength."

'I doubt even a quarter of them are aware of the actual reasons and basis of this apprenticeship course,' Han Xuelian deduced from the expressions of a few guest disciples in the crowd, some eager and others visibly confused. 'His dear Majesty was so kind enough to give me the details of how I should conduct this. No matter, I will proceed with my own methods and not reveal too much.'

"As you all are aware that this apprenticeship exchange is a training course designed to test your caliber and capabilities," Han Xuelian informed, taking a few steps to the right where Han Yijun stood as he eyed each distinct face amongst the disciples. "You will undergo a series of physical tests during the first elimination round and then those of you who pass will be selected to move onto the next round."

He caught sight of Han Yijun's expression subtly flash with annoyance, his eyes particularly focused on something in the crowd.

The Grandmaster ceased his pacing when he reached the space in front of Han Yijun, finally spotting Chi Cheng in the middle row behind his taller younger brother. He caught the shorter male bashfully turning his head away when their gazes met, the subtle exchange between them almost made the Grandmaster smile.

"Your ability to cooperate with each other and the affinity each of your cultivation types have with each other is vital to the criteria on which you all will be assessed," Han Xuelian continued. "Are there any questions?"

"What is the purpose of these physical tests?" A disciple from the Shan Clan, dresses in white and light brown training robes, questioned. "Should we not be focusing directly on improving our cultivation abilities?"

"These physical tests are designed to improve your mental focus, resilience and discipline," Han Yongrui answered, standing beside the Grandmaster on the left. "As you know these are essential aspects to assist your cultivating methods. This course will accept only the best and nothing less."

"Was our elemental affinities and cultivation types taken into consideration?" Chi Cheng raised a hand, posing his question. "The physical tests can be mentored by anyone, but even the Grandmaster couldn't possibly be versed in all elemental types? I believe many of the disciples here, including myself, have yet to unlock the full potential of our cultivation techniques. How will this course cater for that later on?"

Han Xuelian's lips curved into a smirk, seemingly impressed by Chi Cheng's question and also somewhat surprised since he didn't expect him to pose a question at all.

Han Yijun parted his lips to reply but the Grandmaster halted him with a hand gesture, stepping forward as his gaze found Chi Cheng again.

"If you manage to pass all the physical tests, I will answer your question in detail," Han Xuelian declared, his promise was directed to Chi Cheng specifically but the rest of the disciples took it as a pledge to all of them.

They felt more determined and competent, eager to receive their answer from the Grandmaster.

'I hope this curiosity isn't a habit of yours, Chi Cheng,' Han Xuelian eyed the shorter male warily. 'If you continue to ask questions like this in future then my plans will have obstacles.'

"The first round will be horseback archery," Han Yongrui stated. "You will be guided to the stables by the Han clan's inner sect disciples who will direct and pair you accordingly. Please make your way out of the training courtyard through the left path."

Following his brother and the other disciples, Chi Cheng made his way towards the stables. He still contemplated his earlier question, attempting to come up with plausible ways that the Grandmaster intended to handle that obstacle.

"Ah-Ran," Chi Cheng called for his brother. "There's a chance we may have our mother or her aide join us here in future."

"Mother and her aide?" Chi Weiran said questioningly. "What made you come to that conclusion? Was it because of your earlier question?"

"You will see what I meant when we complete these tests." Chi Cheng patted his brother's shoulder.

They arrived at the stables that accommodated at least more than a hundred horses, well maintained and kempt.

'The weather conditions in Xue Ling Ridge are too harsh to breed livestock or warhorses. Meat and other related necessities are usually imported from other clans.' Chi Cheng assessed the area. 'And these horses are restless, not accustomed to the environment. Were they brought in specifically for this course?'

"Brother, are you lost in thoughts again?" Chi Weiran waved a hand in front of his brother's face.

They were approached by Han Yongrui who greeted them briefly before issuing instructions.

"Chi Weiran, you will be paired with Feng Yuxian for this round," Han Yongrui informed them. "The rules will be explained to you by the instructors in the stables, they will assign you a horse and your equipment.

"Chi Cheng, please follow me." Han Yongrui began walking away and Chi Cheng followed, giving a brief look over his shoulder to his younger brother.

"Remember to behave and may luck be in your favour." Chi Cheng wished him before catching up to Han Yongrui.

Chi Cheng was led inside one of the stable stalls that were situated much further than the rest, where no other disciples seemed to be around.

He sighted the Grandmaster leaning against the stall of a particular horse, his arms folded as he awaited his arrival.

"Thank you, Rui." Han Xuelian expressed his gratitude to his nephew who only bowed in response and took his leave.

"Did you have me brought here because of my question from earlier?" Chi Cheng enquired, seeing no other reason as to why he would be called aside.

"Yes and no," the Grandmaster said, stepping away from the stall. "I wasn't aware you were a smart talker, Chi Cheng. If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're shadowing your brother purposely."

"My brother is very talented," Chi Cheng declared proudly with a smile. "Unlike myself, he has achieved great things and will achieve even greater in his journey. You will quickly see the caliber of his skills during these physical tests."

"But I'm not interested in your brother," Han Xuelian revealed, backing Chi Cheng into a corner against the stall. "I want to see the extent of your physical capabilities."

The shorter male was exposed to the gelid feeling that emitted from the Grandmaster, as if frosty air seeped from his body itself. And for the first time since their few encounters, Chi Cheng studied the Grandmaster's face.

He noticed a perfectly shaped jawline, handsome features that denoted him as an attractive representative of the Han Clan. There were distinct earrings attached to his ears, with sapphire stones and a crystal that looked delicate.

Was that the source of the chiming sound everytime Han Xuelian walked?

Chi Cheng shook himself out of his thoughts, reminding himself of the more important tasks ahead.

"Can I be on my way now, Grandmaster Han? I'd like to find out who my assigned partner is and receive my equipment." Chi Cheng turned his head to the side, eyeing a black Yili horse.

This particular breed was known for their endurance and adaptability to harsh climates. The horse also appeared calm, as if it was accustomed to its environment so perhaps it had been here longer than the others.

"Did Hei catch your attention?" Han Xuelian gestured to the black Yili horse, carefully watching a glint of awe beam in the glossy emerald of Chi Cheng's eyes. "I'll assign him to you then."

"Hei?" Chi Cheng raised an eyebrow. "He was named Hei because he's black in colour? Horses are a warrior's companion, they should be named more significantly."

"What would you have named him then?"

"Hmm… An Xing!" Chi Cheng seemed visibly happy with his choice of name.

"Dark star? That's interesting." The Grandmaster smiled subtly. "An Xing it is."

"Great, now I should go find my partner."

"Your partner?" Han Xuelian placed a hand on Chi Cheng's shoulder. "That would be me."