Chapter 229: First Students
Two days after the contract was finalized, the newly established Celestial Sect grounds buzzed with activity as over a thousand prospective students gathered for the first day of training.
Grim stood on the steps of the main training hall, watching as the final groups of candidates completed their initial assessments.
The response to his recruitment announcement had been overwhelming—young men and women from across the Empire had traveled to seek admission to what was already being called the revival of the sects in the Empire.
"The final count, my lord," Chen Xing reported, approaching with a leather portfolio filled with documentation. "One thousand and forty-three accepted candidates, all confirmed to possess either fire or water affinities."
"How many were rejected?" Grim asked, noting the organized chaos of new students attempting to find their assigned quarters in the dormitory buildings.
"Nearly three thousand," Chen Xing replied with obvious amazement. "Word spread quickly about the sect’s requirements and potential benefits. We had applicants from noble houses, merchant families, and even some from the outer provinces."
"And all of the accepted candidates understand the commitment required?"
"They’ve been informed about the physical training requirements and the eventual oath of loyalty," Chen Xing confirmed. "Though I suspect many of them don’t fully comprehend what that oath will entail."
"They will," Grim said with quiet confidence. "Once the training begins, those who lack true dedication will remove themselves."
At that moment, Shen Lao emerged from the main training hall, his ancient eyes surveying the assembled students with the expression of someone who had overseen similar gatherings across centuries of experience.
"Impressive turnout," the dragon observed, moving to stand beside Grim. "Though I suspect the numbers will decrease significantly once they understand what’s required."