Morning mist floated above the training field. The air hummed with energy.
Dozens of disciples stood in a wide circle, watching the upcoming matches. The sound of swords clashing echoed from nearby platforms.
Li Ming tightened his gloves, staring at the sparring arena.
Bai Guo stood on his shoulder in his tiny bird form, looking unimpressed.
"Descendant, remember—try not to get punched in the face. It ruins your heroic image."
Li Ming muttered, "I don't even have a heroic image yet."
Lan Yue walked past them, calm as ever. "You'll build one today. Every authentic disciple must spar to prove their control."
Li Ming nodded, feeling his heartbeat quicken. "Got it. Control. Focus. Don't die."
Bai Guo tilted his head. "Good priorities."
---
The referee, an elder with a white beard and a bored expression, floated onto the platform.
"First match," he announced, "Li Ming of Azure Sky Peak versus Han Zhao of Ironwood Peak!"
The crowd cheered.
