They emerged into a vast courtyard reminiscent of the old Phoenix Tower gardens but grander. World Tree arches crowned ivory pavilions, and students in uniforms drifted like leaves on the breeze.
A familiar voice called, "Feng Jian? Is that you?"
Jian turned to see Xing, his childhood training partner who had defected to the Qing faction. Xing's surprise faded into a forced smile. Nearby, two noblewomen stepped forward:
Mei Ming of the Ming Kingdom, poised yet curious.
Yuki Qing of the Qing head family, vibrant and determined.
"Lady Mei, Lady Yuki," Jian greeted, introducing Maria.
Before conversation could continue, a towering elf with emerald hair descended in mid-air. Waves of Qi rippled through the crowd of two hundred thousand. His voice boomed:
"Welcome to the Seven-Star Academy! Your first trial: form a line around the stone pillars before you. Touch them with your Natural Qi. Those with fifty years or more will receive the Asura System; others, please return home."
He hovered, then added with icy authority:
"Family prestige holds no sway here. Even the ten great clans bow to the academy's standards!"
The elf vanished, and instructors guided the candidates. "Place your palm on the pillar and channel your Natural Qi."
Xing stepped forward confidently, touched the pillar, and was awarded 70 years—passing easily. Mei Ming and Yuki followed, earning 69 and 68 years, respectively.
Maria approached next, drawing a hush. She closed her eyes, focused, and the pillar glowed—105 years. Gasps rose; only Lisa Draconis had surpassed her at 120 years.
Maria lowered her head. I almost matched her...
Jian was last. He placed his palm on the pillar. The stone shimmered brilliantly—140 years. An instructor stared, mouth agape: "He's broken the record!"
Led aside, Jian felt the familiar resonance of the dream voice within his Qi.
Classroom of Elements
In a sunlit hall, Lisa Draconis peered out a window. Ava, a classmate, nudged her. "Record broken by Feng Jian."
Lisa merely smiled. "I expected nothing less."
Ava furrowed her brow. "You've never cared for exams—what changed?"
Lisa's gaze lingered on the World Tree spire. "Fate has its reasons."
End of Chapter 8