The third trial eventually reached its conclusion. The vast majority of the first-year disciples remained stuck at the spiritual waterfall or sat completely confused in front of the jade monolith.
The scarred instructor stepped back into the center of the courtyard and raised his wooden staff to gather everyone's attention.
"The initial evaluations are officially over," the instructor announced, sweeping his gaze across the struggling teenagers. "Those who failed to pass the waterfall or comprehend the monolith will remain here."
He then turned and pointed toward the small group of students who had successfully completed the challenges.
"The successful disciples will now separate into your designated training grounds," he continued. "You will be assigned to specific pavilions based entirely on your demonstrated weapon skills and martial expertise. Follow the guides to your new quarters."
