The courtyard roared with energy. Dust flew everywhere as mentors chased disciples like hungry tigers after clueless rabbits.
Li Ming ducked behind a fallen pillar, clutching his glowing Pride Shatter Orbs. His chest heaved. "So this is how they train inner disciples? No wonder half of them cry after class!"
Bai Guo, half-chicken, half-human, crouched beside him, fanning himself with a feather. "You wanted to grow stronger, right? Welcome to real training. They're not just testing your pride—they're grinding your spirit!"
Li Ming peeked around the corner. A nearby student got smacked by two orbs and flew into a haystack.
"Spirit grinding looks painful," Li Ming muttered.
"Exactly!" Bai Guo chirped. "Remember, kid, every test builds your path. This is how you climb—body, mind, and ego."
Li Ming sighed. "So… if I survive this, I get stronger?"
"If you don't, you become a cautionary tale," Bai Guo said cheerfully.
