Embracing the Coven (3)

Seraphina's heart raced with anticipation as she stood before the designated area for the second exam. She was handed a scroll containing the intricate seal formation required for the Seal of Weakness and the necessary resources to draw it out.

Seraphina unrolled the scroll and examined the complex array of symbols and runes. She took a moment to memorize the pattern and the precise sequence of strokes required to create the seal.

Elara and Lyra were equally focused, their brows furrowed in concentration as they studied their respective scrolls. The pressure of the exam weighed heavily on them. Knowing that they must demonstrate not only their skill in creating the seal but also its effectiveness.

As the examiners signaled the start, Seraphina drew the Seal of Weakness on the parchment provided. She channeled her Qi through her brush, infusing it into the seal formation. The energy flowed smoothly, and she could feel the seal taking shape.

Time seemed to fly as she focused on her task, and soon the one-hour mark approached. Seraphina took a deep breath, her heart pounding in her chest. She raised her hand, and with a final touch, the Seal of Weakness was complete.

Stepping back, she observed the seal intently, hoping her efforts would meet the Coven's standards. The seal pulsed with energy, its essence entwined with her own Qi.

Elara and Lyra completed their seals, each showcasing their unique flair in their formations. The atmosphere hummed with anticipation as the examiners approached each seal to assess their efficacy.

After a few moments of evaluation, the examiners seemed pleased with the results.

"Excellent work, all of you! This will lead us to the third exam, the battle simulation. To succeed, your seal must work on our core disciples," one of the elders praised, nodding approvingly.

The candidates were led to a designated combat arena for the final exam. The elder in charge explained that they would face a core disciple of the Rosevine Coven in a simulated combat match.

Seraphina faced a core disciple named Emma, known for her lightning-fast strikes and agile movements.

She immediately focused on her cultivation technique at the start of the match. She summoned her Qi, channeling it through her meridians with ease.

Emma exuded confidence as she eyed Seraphina with a faint smile. "I hope you're ready for this," she said, her voice laced with a hint of playfulness.

Taking a deep breath, Seraphina tried to calm her nerves and steady her trembling hands. She knew she had to rely on her newfound cultivation techniques and the Seal of Weakness she had practiced diligently over the past few days.

The referee signaled the start of the match, and Emma wasted no time, darting towards Seraphina with astonishing speed. Her movements were blurry, and Seraphina barely had time to react. She managed to dodge Emma's initial strike, but the core disciple was relentless, following up with a flurry of blows.

Caught off guard, Seraphina was now on the defensive, trying her best to evade Emma's attacks. She struggled to find an opening to strike back, her lack of battle experience evident in her hesitant movements.

Emma's playful smile turned into a smirk as she continued to press her advantage. "Is that all you've got?" she taunted.

Seraphina gritted her teeth, refusing to be discouraged. She knew she had to find a way to turn the tide of the battle. Remembering her training, she focused on her cultivation technique, drawing in Qi and steadying her breathing.

As Emma launched another attack, Seraphina channeled her Qi into her legs, propelling herself into a swift retreat. She quickly formulated a plan, intending to use the Seal of Weakness to slow Emma's movements.

With a burst of determination, Seraphina chanted the incantation for the Seal of Weakness and attempted to apply it to Emma. However, her inexperience and the pressure of the moment caused her to fumble, and the seal failed to take effect.

Emma chuckled, her confidence growing. "You'll have to do better than that," she said, her voice dripping with condescension.

Seraphina's frustration only fueled her resolve. She knew she couldn't give up, no matter how dire the situation seemed. Gathering her courage, she took a deep breath and focused again on the Seal of Weakness.

This time, she managed to execute the seal more effectively. A shimmering light enveloped Emma momentarily, causing her movements to slow down slightly. It was a small victory for Seraphina, but it boosted her confidence.

With newfound determination, Seraphina seized the opportunity to launch her counterattack. She concentrated her Qi into her fists, trying to recall the basic combat techniques she had learned during her training.

The battle raged on, with both cultivators exchanging blows and strategies. Emma's experience and skill were evident, but Seraphina's determination and newfound control over her Qi proved to be able to sustain.

But Seraphina found herself in a difficult position. Emma's speed and agility were wearing her down, and her movements were slowly becoming sluggish.

With a final burst of energy, Seraphina decided to take a risk. She focused all her remaining Qi into one powerful strike and held the seal in her striking fist. She imbued her Qi into her fist to activate the seal on impact.

To her surprise, the attack landed successfully, and Emma stumbled back, momentarily stunned by the force of the blow.

Seraphina's heart raced as she realized the opportunity she had created. Without hesitation, she channeled her Qi into the Seal of Weakness once again, aiming to further weaken Emma and secure her victory.

The seal enveloped Emma, and this time the effects were more pronounced. Emma's movements slowed significantly, leaving her vulnerable.

"You passed ..." Emma said with a big smile.

"... and well fought," she said sincerely. "You have great potential, and I can see you becoming a formidable cultivator in no time."

"I had not expected to be slowed by a Seal of Weakness at that time! Your usage is quite different from the usual approach."

"Thank you for the compliment!" Seraphina answered and knew she had impressed them. She was also happy that Emma was not the typical cultivation grudge-holding senior.

The simulated combat was intense, each candidate pushing their limits to impress the elders and core disciples observing the matches.

As the matches concluded, the three candidates were escorted back to the serene courtyard where the elder panel waited. The atmosphere was tense as the examinees stood before the elders.

"You have all displayed exceptional talent and potential," one of the elders began. "Your control over Qi, your affinity for seals, and your adaptability in combat are commendable."

The elder panel discussed amongst themselves for a brief moment, their gazes contemplative.

"In recognition of your exceptional performance, we are pleased to announce that you have all passed the entrance examination. Welcome to the Rosevine Coven," another elder declared.

Seraphina, Elara, and Lyra exchanged relieved smiles, their hard work, and determination paying off.