Gaius

Deep underneath Xi’an lies a latticework of dwarven made tunnels spiraling in unknowable directions. These abandoned tunnels were pitch black as there had been no need for light crystals this far below. However, within the normally vacant tunnels there floated a sphere of pale blue light illuminating the tunnels for what may have been the first time in centuries.

“I have finally broken through to the first stage of the qi refinement stage. But it's still far too weak to survive outside the city.” I knew that despite regaining a sliver of my former powers, I had just turned 14.

“Tsk.” Seeing my orb start to flicker I knew this was enough training for today. I wouldn't want others questioning my disappearance until I am ready to leave. Using my quickly diminishing powers I made my way back to the orphanage.

…

I contemplated my future steps as I approached and entered the compound. Ten stages for the qi refinement realm, then followed by three stages of the dantain foundation realm. Then I will have the necessary power to survive my trip outside these city walls.

“I need everyone coming along for the Test of Innate Talent to gather around. We will be leaving in a few moments.” said Den Mother as she ushered together everyone 15 years and older.

Feeling an arm draped over my shoulder. “Gaius, I’ve broken through to the qi refinement stage at only 17. I’ll probably be the greatest talent to ever come from the slums. Come with me, a ‘little one’ such as yourself would benefit from seeing how the process is for true talent.” boisterously said one of the compound’s older boys named Zixin.

“I’d rather n-” “Gaius, come on, you should support your older brothers and sisters.” Zixin interrupted my refusal. “Even if I have to drag you there.” He said as he pulled me forward.

Begrudgingly, I accepted what was to come and walked forward before he could start dragging me. Zixin is by far one of the more difficult brothers to deal with. He spends all his brain power on increasing his cultivation and doesn’t leave much for anything else. Talking to him is like talking to a brick wall unless it has to deal with his cultivation.

....

Den Mother led the group of 10 adolescents to the base of the nearest pillar of stone.

The tunnel widened until reaching a set of large double doors, easily reaching the height of three men. The clanging of industrial machines echoed through the double doors. These doors were the only passageway connecting the upper layers of the tower to the underground dwellers. The doors led upwards into the second layer of the tower and was reserved for the use of the people living in the tower. The people of the slums weren’t normally allowed through these doors, except for special occasions. Instead they had to enter through one of the other doors that led to the first layer that housed the industrial machines making the towers livable.

The higher layers were typically reserved for the middle and high classes. From what I’ve heard, the second layer functions as a mercantile area. Once a year, everyone between the ages of 15 and 20 were gathered to take the Test of Innate Talent in the second layer.

The 15 year olds would have their spiritual roots tested. They would then be sorted by the quality of their spiritual roots, which indicates their innate talent. Anyone who has achieved the first stage of spiritual cultivation would then be reviewed by the recruiters. This does not guarantee them entry to the academies. Only the lucky few, like brother Zixin, that broke through before the age of 18 were guaranteed to be selected.

Our group joined the crowd waiting to take the Test of Innate Talent. The crowd was sectioned off into two lines, the longer line leading to a plate of solid crystal.

The much smaller line led to a group of elderly men dressed in fine robes whose edges were embroidered with the sigils of their respective academies. One of those elders caught my eye, his long white beard seemed to faintly glow in a wavelike pattern, I couldn't help but snort at the display. The elder then glanced at our group as we entered.

I then felt a foreign force, near unnoticeable, pass through my body and those around me. The energy paused as it went past me. Quickly, I suppressed my minimal cultivation as best as I could when the energy scrutinized me. As the energy left me, I couldn't help but wonder ‘Did he notice?’ My eyes were then met by the mysterious elder’s stare.