High above the stadium, on a grand platform lined with carved jade seats, the Cang Clan elders sat in rows.
Among them was Cang Jun, Cang Yan's father, a man in his thirties with calm eyes and a sharp aura—his cultivation at the Martial Spirit Realm.
Beside him sat Elder Mo, an old man with a white beard and eyes that gleamed with wisdom.
Cang Jun leaned slightly toward him and whispered,
> "Elder Mo, who do you think will be qualified to join the Mojin Sect this year?"
Elder Mo stroked his beard.
> "Hard to say. The Mojin Sect's requirements are extremely strict. To even be considered, a child must awaken at least a Fifth Grade or higher Martial Spirit."
He sighed softly before continuing,
> "Even our clan leader, Cang Ti, possesses only a Fifth-Grade Martial Spirit and a Fifth-Grade Root. You know, the Root Grade ranges from one to ten, while Martial Spirit Grades go from one to twenty."
Cang Jun nodded slightly, understanding.
Elder Mo continued in a low voice,
> "Root grade only determines the foundation and endurance of the body—it helps stabilize cultivation. But the Martial Spirit... that decides your cultivation speed and future potential. That's why all major sects value it above everything else."
He looked out at the arena.
> "The Mojin Sect's elders are all Martial Kings. Only true geniuses can enter their ranks."
---
Down below, in the crowded stands, the noise of excitement spread like wildfire.
Children from every family were seated in groups, each waiting nervously for their turn.
Cang Yan sat quietly among the Cang Clan's younger generation, his expression calm while others whispered and fidgeted around him.
Then, a majestic voice echoed across the entire arena.
It was City Lord Luo Tian, standing on the highest platform. His aura radiated authority.
> "People of Luo City!" he announced. "Today, the Root and Martial Spirit Awakening Ceremony will decide your children's futures!"
The crowd immediately fell silent.
Luo Tian pointed toward the center of the platform, where a giant crystal sphere floated above an altar, glowing faintly with spiritual energy.
> "Children, step forward one by one," he said. "Place your hand upon the crystal. It will reveal your Root Grade and Martial Spirit."
He raised his arm.
> "I now declare the ceremony—begun!"
The announcer stepped forward, voice ringing out clearly:
> "First participant—Cang Pin!"
The crowd cheered as the first child nervously walked toward the glowing crystal…