In the central lotus pond, a golden spirit fish jumped through hoops of flame.
Today was the Outer Sect's Annual Challenge. The prize: a single drop of spirit marrow.
Disciples cheered. But as chaos brewed, Elder Mu approached Han Li with a frown.
"The fish... it's possessed."
Han Li blinked. "Possessed carp?"
"It bit two elders."
The pond gurgled. A giant fish rose, eyes glowing red.
It roared.
Han Li sighed. "I just cleaned this area."
He stepped into the pond. The water parted around him.
The fish lunged.
Han Li poked it with his broom.
POOF. The spirit beast deflated like a balloon.
The crowd went silent.
Han Li returned to shore, dripping water and muttering, "Stupid fish."