NOVEL NEXT Chapter 7: Chapter 7: The Path to Recognition
The Xiao Clan library stood like a fortress of knowledge at the heart of the estate. Its towering shelves contained tomes and scrolls filled with cultivation techniques, martial arts, and ancient records of Dou Qi mastery. But only those deemed worthy were allowed to access anything beyond the basic techniques.
Xiao Yan, despite his growing reputation, knew he was far from being granted unrestricted access. Still, his fight with Xiao Ning had sparked curiosity among the clan's elders. He would have to build on that momentum.
---
The next morning, Xiao Yan was summoned to the main hall. His father, Xiao Zhan, sat at the head of the room, his imposing presence radiating authority. Beside him were several elders of the Xiao Clan, their expressions ranging from curious to skeptical.
"Xiao Yan," Xiao Zhan began, his voice measured, "your performance in the sparring session yesterday has drawn considerable attention. Elder Xiao Li spoke highly of your technique. However, many here believe it is unusual for someone of your age to display such skill."
Xiao Yan bowed respectfully. "Father, honored elders, I have worked hard in secret, inspired by the example set by our clan. I only wish to bring honor to our name."
One of the elders, a wiry man with sharp eyes, leaned forward. "Hard work alone does not explain such precision, Xiao Yan. Tell us—did someone teach you, or did you discover these techniques on your own?"
Xiao Yan met the elder's gaze with unwavering calm. "I studied the basic techniques available to all disciples and practiced diligently. As for my precision, I believe my small size and focus have given me an advantage in mastering the fundamentals."
The elders exchanged glances, some nodding thoughtfully. Xiao Zhan's stern expression softened slightly. "Your humility is commendable, Xiao Yan. However, words alone are not enough. The Xiao Clan rewards those who prove themselves. If you wish to advance further, you must demonstrate your ability."
---
By midday, the clan's training grounds were once again bustling with activity. This time, however, the audience was larger. Xiao Zhan himself had come to oversee Xiao Yan's test, accompanied by several elders. Disciples of all ages gathered to watch, eager to see if the youngest member of the clan could live up to the growing rumors.
"Xiao Yan," Xiao Zhan announced, his voice carrying across the grounds, "you will face three challenges. The first will test your physical strength, the second your Dou Qi control, and the third your combat skills. If you succeed, you will earn the right to access the clan library's intermediate techniques."
Xiao Yan stepped into the center of the grounds, his expression calm but determined. "I am ready, Father."
---
The First Challenge: Strength
The first test was simple yet demanding: Xiao Yan was required to lift a heavy stone pillar, an exercise designed to gauge raw physical strength. Most children his age could barely move it.
The crowd murmured as Xiao Yan approached the pillar, his small frame seemingly incapable of the task. But Xiao Yan knew better. His foundation was no longer that of an ordinary child.
He crouched low, gripping the base of the pillar tightly. Channeling his Dou Qi subtly into his muscles, he lifted with steady force. The stone groaned but slowly rose from the ground. Sweat beaded on his forehead, but Xiao Yan's expression remained calm. With a final surge of effort, he raised the pillar to waist height before carefully setting it down.
The crowd erupted in cheers. Even the elders exchanged impressed glances.
---
The Second Challenge: Dou Qi Control
The second test involved controlling Dou Qi to light a series of candles placed at varying distances. Precision and finesse were key; any excess force could extinguish the flames.
Xiao Yan approached the task with confidence. He extended his hand, allowing a faint thread of Dou Qi to flow from his fingertips. The first candle flickered to life instantly. He moved to the next, adjusting the flow of energy with careful precision. One by one, the candles were lit, the faint blue flames dancing in the afternoon light.
By the time the final candle was lit, the crowd was silent, their awe palpable.
---
The Third Challenge: Combat
The final challenge was a one-on-one sparring match against Xiao Ming, one of the clan's most talented junior disciples. At nine years old, Xiao Ming was already in the second Dou Qi realm, making him a formidable opponent.
The two boys faced each other in the sparring circle. Xiao Ming's confident smirk contrasted with Xiao Yan's calm demeanor.
"Don't think I'll go easy on you just because you're younger," Xiao Ming said.
"I wouldn't expect you to," Xiao Yan replied, his tone even.
The match began with a flurry of movement. Xiao Ming launched a series of quick strikes, his Dou Qi flaring around his fists. Xiao Yan dodged with fluid grace, his smaller frame giving him an edge in agility. He analyzed Xiao Ming's movements, identifying patterns and weaknesses.
When Xiao Ming overextended on a punch, Xiao Yan seized the opportunity. He sidestepped and delivered a swift kick to Xiao Ming's ribs, sending him stumbling. Before Xiao Ming could recover, Xiao Yan followed up with a palm strike that stopped just short of his opponent's chest.
"Yield," Xiao Yan said, his voice steady.
Xiao Ming hesitated, his pride clearly wounded, but finally nodded. "I… yield."
---
The training grounds erupted in applause as Xiao Yan stepped back, his expression composed despite the exhilaration coursing through him. Xiao Zhan and the elders looked on with a mixture of pride and amazement.
"You have exceeded our expectations, Xiao Yan," Xiao Zhan said, his voice carrying a note of pride. "From this day forward, you are granted access to the intermediate techniques of the Xiao Clan library. Use them wisely."
Xiao Yan bowed deeply. "Thank you, Father. I will not disappoint you."
---
That evening, as Xiao Yan sat alone in his courtyard, the Tenfold Cultivation System spoke in his mind.
"Milestone achieved: access to intermediate techniques unlocked. Host is advised to prioritize techniques compatible with accelerated growth. Probability of future challenges increasing: 37%."
Xiao Yan smirked. "Let them come. I'll be ready."
---
End of Chapter 7
---