Sixth Elder led the trio out of the cave, his steps firm yet unhurried. They soon reached a secluded cabin hidden behind dense thickets, guarded by another squad of peak rank two formation apprentices, their eyes sharp and expressions indifferent. The guards saluted the elder before silently stepping aside to let them enter.
Inside the cabin, a single table stood in the center, upon which lay a thick, yellowed ledger, an inkstone, and a slender, finely crafted brush. Without wasting any time, the Sixth Elder turned his gaze to Wang Shui. "Wang Shui, come forward and show me your right hand."
Wang Shui stepped up, extending his right hand with the pride of someone who knew his worth. The Sixth Elder's eyes gleamed as he observed the intricate formation mark on Wang Shui's palm—a sharp, fierce design reminiscent of a blade mid-swing. He nodded, his thoughts calm. As expected, his father must have guided him well. This formation is perfectly suited to his lineage.
Dipping the brush into the ink, the Sixth Elder carefully wrote, "Wang Shui = Sword Explosion Formation" in the ledger, the wet ink reflecting the dim lantern light for a moment before settling into the ancient paper's grain.
Next, he turned to Wang Mei. "Wang Mei, your turn."
She approached with a graceful, yet confident stride, extending her right hand. The mark on her palm was a swirling, coiled pattern, like the shell of a tightly wound blade. The Sixth Elder's gaze softened slightly. As expected, the Sword Will Shell,perfect for her sharp, defensive fighting style.
He wrote her entry with a steady hand, "Wang Mei = Sword Will Shell", before closing his eyes briefly, as if sealing the moment in his mind.
Finally, it was Wang Ming's turn. The Sixth Elder's eyes lingered on him for a second longer before gesturing him forward. "Wang Ming, step up."
Wang Ming extended his right hand without hesitation. The elder's expression shifted as his eyes locked onto the mark on Wang Ming's palm—a formation mark that seemed to ripple with a faint, dark intent, three interlocking sword symbols that pulsed like a hidden heartbeat. The elder's mind turned, his thoughts flowing like a silent river. Hmm… not as straightforward as the others, but not without potential. However, it demands immense practice and concentration in its early stages. For someone without a strong backing, this formation is a risky choice. Yet… it shows his decisiveness.
He carefully wrote, "Wang Ming = Tri-Blade Phantasm Formation", his brush pausing slightly as he finished the final stroke. He closed the ledger with a soft thud, setting the brush back in its place.
Straightening, the Sixth Elder looked at the three youths before him, his expression stern but tinged with a hint of satisfaction. "Wang Shui, Wang Mei, you both may return now. Remember, the academy starts next week. It would be wise to grasp at least the basics of your chosen formations before then."
Both Wang Shui and Wang Mei bowed deeply, their eyes filled with a mixture of respect and barely concealed excitement, before turning to leave. Wang Ming remained, his face a mask of politeness.
The Sixth Elder watched the departing figures, his eyes narrowing slightly before he leaned closer to Wang Ming. A sly smile crept onto his face as he whispered, "Wang Ming, you made a wise choice. But tell me, do you understand the downside of the Tri-Blade Phantasm Formation?"
Wang Ming's expression flickered with a carefully placed trace of hesitation, his voice respectful. "No, Elder. I humbly ask for your guidance."
The Sixth Elder chuckled, his voice echoing softly against the cabin's wooden walls. "Hahaha… worry not, child. If you wish, I can personally guide you for a week before the academy begins. But remember, keep this to yourself. Others might not appreciate my generosity."
Wang Ming's eyes gleamed with a flicker of hidden intent, his face showing a mask of gratitude. "This junior will forever remember Elder's kindness. I will not disappoint you."
The Sixth Elder's mood lightened, clearly pleased by the response. With a final nod, he waved Wang Ming off, sending him back toward his quarters.
As Wang Ming stepped out of the cabin, the cold night air brushing against his face, his expression instantly turned indifferent, the earlier gratitude vanishing like mist in the morning sun. His lips curled into a faint, mocking smile. Hmph. Old fox, you think I don't see your intentions? Trying to rope me into your faction through feigned kindness?
His gaze turned sharp, his steps steady as he walked away. I welcome it. Try to bind me, try to use me. I'll bleed you dry for every advantage you offer, and when the time comes, I'll cut you down without hesitation.
A low chuckle escaped his lips as he vanished into the darkness, his shadow stretching long against the moonlit path, a silent specter returning to his lair.