Morning mist drifted across the peaks of Azure Sky Sect. Bells rang softly, echoing through the valley. Today, the mountain buzzed with energy — the Authentic Disciple Examination was about to begin.
Disciples filled the courtyards, voices hushed, eyes sharp with anticipation.
Li Ming stood among them, robes neat for once, hair tied properly — though Bai Guo still tried to fix a stray strand.
"Don't move," Bai Guo muttered. "You're representing the sect. Try looking less like you rolled out of a fight."
Li Ming smirked. "Hey, I've grown. I even meditated before coming."
"That explains why your face looks so calm," Bai Guo said. "Still not sure about your brain, though."
Lan Yue approached, her steps light but steady. "Enough bickering. Li Ming, today matters. The elders will be watching. This is the step that decides your place in the sect."
Li Ming's expression turned serious. "Understood, Master."
She paused, studying him. "...You've changed."
He blinked. "Huh?"
