Chapter 231: Thorough Demonstration
Over eight hundred remaining students assembled for their third day of physical conditioning.
The previous two days had eliminated nearly two hundred and fifty candidates, leaving only those with sufficient determination to endure Shen Lao’s uncompromising standards.
Grim stood at the edge of the training area, observing the assembled students with interest. Despite the eliminations, he could see signs of complacency among some of the remaining candidates—particularly those from noble families who seemed to believe their survival thus far guaranteed continued success.
"Today’s regimen will be slightly modified," Shen Lao announced to the gathered students. "Lord Ambrose will be joining your physical training to demonstrate proper form and commitment."
Surprised murmurs rippled through the crowd as Grim stepped forward, having exchanged his formal robes for practical training attire that allowed freedom of movement.
"Some of you may be wondering why physical conditioning is emphasized so heavily in a cultivation sect," Grim began, his voice carrying clearly across the assembly. "You may believe that magical techniques make physical strength irrelevant, or that your bodies are simply vessels for more important abilities."
He paused, allowing his words to settle before continuing.
"You would be wrong," he said with quiet authority. "Your body is the conduit through which all power flows. Weakness of flesh creates limitations in spirit, and limitations in spirit create vulnerability in combat."
A young man near the front—whose expensive clothing and soft features marked him as nobility—raised his hand with obvious skepticism.
"Yes?" Grim asked.
"Lord Ambrose," the student said with barely concealed arrogance, "surely someone of your abilities doesn’t need to concern themselves with such basic exercises? Wouldn’t your time be better spent on more advanced techniques?"