Trial of Strength

The air crackled with anticipation as the participants prepared themselves for the first challenge of the selection process at Wulong Academy. Master Zhi, the village chief and revered martial artist, stood at the center of the training grounds, his commanding presence emanating an aura of authority.

"All participants, gather around," Master Zhi announced, his voice carrying the weight of experience and wisdom. The eager children formed a semi-circle around him, their eyes fixed on his every move.

"The first trial will test your physical strength," Master Zhi declared, his gaze sweeping across the young hopefuls. "Strength is the foundation of martial arts. To succeed, one must possess not only the power to strike, but also the resilience to endure."

A buzz of excitement and determination filled the air as the participants mentally prepared themselves for the challenge ahead. Xin Tiu, with his heart filled with admiration for Li Xuehua, stepped forward eagerly, ready to showcase his own physical prowess.

Master Zhi gestured toward a row of large stone blocks stacked neatly at the side of the training grounds. "Your task is to break these stone blocks using your bare hands. But be warned, these are no ordinary stone blocks. They are infused with a resilient energy, making them much more difficult to shatter."

Xin Tiu, his muscles tense and his determination burning bright, positioned himself in front of the stone blocks. With a deep breath, he unleashed a powerful strike, channeling all his strength into his fist. The impact reverberated through the air, but the stone block remained unbroken.

Undeterred, Xin Tiu took a moment to adjust his stance, his eyes focused on the task at hand. He steadied himself, feeling the energy coursing through his veins. With a renewed sense of determination, he struck again, pouring his heart and soul into each blow. Yet, the stone block remained resolute.

Xin Tiu's determination was evident as he took a deep breath and prepared for his third and final attempt. With a resolute expression, he summoned every ounce of his strength, delivering a mighty blow to the stone block.

A collective gasp escaped the onlookers as the stone shattered into pieces, a testament to Xin Tiu's growing power. Cheers erupted from the crowd, mingling with Li Xuehua's applause. Xin Tiu turned to face her, a triumphant smile lighting up his face. Despite his initial struggles, he had pushed through and succeeded.

The other participants took their turns, each one delivering their strongest strikes to the stone blocks. Some managed to break the stone with ease, displaying impressive power and skill. Others, like Xin Tiu, faced challenges and had to dig deep within themselves to overcome the obstacle.

As Li Xuehua's turn approached, she approached the stone blocks with grace and confidence, her eyes focused, and her stance steady. The crowd watched intently, eager to witness her performance.

Li Xuehua, knowing that this trial relied solely on physical strength, suppressed her fiery essence cultivated through the Fiery Path. With a clear mind and steady breath, she drew upon her inner power, channeling it into her strike.

Her palm connected with the stone block, and a resounding crack filled the air. The crowd gasped in astonishment as the block split into two, a testament to her formidable strength.

The spectators, including Li Xuehua's and Xin Tiu's parents, stared in awe at the young girl's incredible display of strength. Master Zhi's eyes widened, a glimmer of intrigue and recognition shining in his gaze. He had witnessed something extraordinary in Li Xuehua's display of physical prowess. The other participants looked on in awe, their doubts and skepticism replaced by admiration and respect.

Among the one hundred children who took part in the selection process, only five had managed to pass the first trial. Li Xuehua and Xin Tiu stood among the chosen few, their determination and tenacity setting them apart from the rest.

The selection process at Wulong Academy had only just begun, but Li Xuehua and Xin Tiu had already made their mark.