The spirit beast's movements were impossibly smooth, each wingbeat carrying them through air currents that normal birds couldn't perceive. They flew past mountains that pierced the clouds and valleys that descended into morning mist, until finally, the Heavenly Smith Sect came into view.
The sight took their breath away—a sprawling complex of forges and pavilions built into the side of a mountain that gleamed with metallic veins. But what caught their attention was the courtyard below, where at least one hundred young cultivators stood in perfectly arranged rows. The morning sun glinted off their robes as they waited, their presence suggesting this was more than a simple admissions ceremony.
As their crane began its descent, Li Hao's expression shifted from excitement to nervous anticipation. These would be his future sect mates, which meant they'd be together for the next three years.
Li Hua sensing his nervousness, reached for his hand and gave it a squeeze.
