The academy gates were enormous.
Dozens of young cultivators gathered outside, each carrying ambition, pride… and arrogance.
A large stone tablet stood near the entrance.
Engraved words glowed:
"Only the strong may enter."
Below it—
An elder sat calmly, eyes half-closed.
Beside him, a crystal orb floated.
"Next," the elder said lazily.
One by one, people stepped forward.
They placed their hands on the crystal—
Some glowed brightly.
Some barely reacted.
"Rejected."
"Accepted."
"Next."
Cold. Efficient.
Arjun watched silently.
"So this is the entrance test…"
The shadow spirit chuckled.
"Simple. But cruel."