When it was complete, the elder gave a nod. "That was the first demonstration. Now, the second."
He dispersed the formation and reformed it again—this time faster, smoother. "And one last time," he said, breaking it apart and recreating it once more. The glowing lines moved in perfect synchronization with his breathing.
After the third demonstration, he looked around at the gathered disciples. "You now have one day to understand and replicate what you have seen. When I return, I will test each of your arrays personally."
He stepped back and gave a faint smile. "Begin."
Around the hall, murmurs rose as the disciples spread out to begin forming their arrays. Some were hesitant, others confident—but all focused intently.
Tian Lei, however, watched quietly for a moment before closing his eyes. His breathing steadied, his qi calmed. Then, with a single motion, he began to weave the formation. His movements were calm and precise—each rune appearing exactly where it needed to be.
