Word of the twins' growing skill spread quickly. Even minor cultivators whispered about the branch family children whose Qi was unusually pure, whose herbs and weapons rivaled main-line disciples.
The main clan elders, uneasy with this development, soon issued an announcement: a Spirit Ability Assessment. Every branch family child was required to participate. The test was designed to evaluate cultivation skill, practical ability, and resourcefulness—an opportunity for the elders to observe the twins without directly confronting them.
Michael and Matthew exchanged a glance. "It's probably a trap," Michael muttered.
"Or a test," Matthew said cautiously. "Either way, we can't refuse."
The assessment arena was enormous, capable of holding hundreds of participants. Children from both main and branch families filled the seats, some nervously, others with visible arrogance.
The first challenge: Qi condensation. Participants were asked to gather energy from a small crystal. Many struggled; their Qi dispersed or became unstable, causing minor injuries to their meridians.
The twins began, sitting cross-legged, palms facing one another. Their Qi resonated perfectly, harmonizing in a rhythm that felt natural yet impossibly refined. Streams of light swirled between them, drawing energy toward their bodies. The audience gasped. Even the elder spectators could sense the unusual energy flow.
Next: practical skills. The participants were asked to forge a simple blade and refine a basic pill. Michael and Matthew moved instinctively, each step precise. Michael's hammer strikes perfectly shaped the metal, while Matthew's knowledge of herbs allowed him to combine ingredients with immaculate accuracy.
By the end, the results were clear: the twins topped the charts. Their combined score far surpassed the nearest competitor.
From the shadows, the elders whispered:
"These two are dangerous.""They've exceeded expectations by centuries."
The twins, unaware of the whispered fear, smiled at one another. Their synchronized cultivation, alchemy, and forging skills had earned them recognition—but also the attention of those who might seek to control or challenge them.