The so-called trial gathered under midday sun. Instructors emerged, deceptively unimpressive at glance. Yet Xue's instincts pricked—they hid power behind ragged faces. Unlike city instructors who bloated with pride, these breathed like predators, calm yet dangerous.
One instructor barked requirement: only those under twelve with power above Rank 21 accepted. Half children flinched. Some cursed, some ran. Shrek meant monsters indeed.
Xue froze. He was sixteen already, slowed by patient cultivation, rank only seventeen. By rules, unfit entirely. Huan swore furiously, Yan's shoulders sank.
But Xue remained calm, heart oddly unshaken. Frost need not force path; frost endures until chance opens. He stepped forward humbly to instructor before being dismissed. "We know requirements," Xue said softly. "Our frost is slow but eternal. If not today, then another time, another life. South wind brought me here; I cannot retreat forever."
The instructor's ruthless eyes studied his face. He sneered but faint curiosity sparked. "You're too old, too weak. Yet… you don't despair." He shoved coin back. "Waste of time maybe, but you may wait. Prove patience. If chance comes, you might stay."
Huan snorted, angry. Yan almost cried with relief. They were not students, not yet monsters. Only shadows at gate. But Xue felt no shame. First life, he was called useless. This time, they admitted at least patience had worth. Already more.
He bowed deeply. "Frost waits. I will return stronger." It was not rejection to him—but planting of root, first foot on soil of Shrek ground.