The morning mist had barely lifted from the outer sect training grounds when Su Ming arrived. His expression was calm, but those who knew him could see the faint gleam of anticipation in his eyes. Today was not an ordinary day.

He sat cross-legged on the cold stone and began to circulate his cultivation method. a warm current spread from his core to his limbs. The jade pendant that glowed faintly blue hidden in his robes grew warm against his skin — a sign that something momentous was about to happen.

The bottleneck that had held him for months finally shattered. Su Ming opened his eyes. The world looked different now — sharper, clearer, as if a veil had been lifted from his perception. He stood up slowly, testing his new strength.

A figure approached from the distance — arrogant young master. "I've been looking for you," the newcomer said, his voice cold. Su Ming didn't flinch. He had been preparing for this moment for a long time.

He activated his movement technique, vanishing and reappearing behind his opponent. The clash of spiritual energy sent ripples through the air. Spectators in the distance covered their eyes as the light grew blinding. When it faded, both figures were still standing — but only one was smiling.

Far away, on a mountain peak/spaceship/deck that no one had noticed until now, an old man/a woman/an AI watched the events unfold through a scrying orb/hologram/screen. "So it begins," he murmured. "The real test is yet to come."