Chapter 234: Three Mana Hearts
The morning after the family demonstration brought a dramatically reduced number of students to the training grounds.
Of the original eight hundred who had survived the first week, fewer than four hundred remained after the public confrontation with their families’ expectations.
Those who had chosen to leave had departed quietly during the night, their absence marked only by empty dormitory rooms and abandoned training equipment.
The students who remained showed a noticeably different demeanor—more focused, more determined, and clearly aware that they had committed to something that would define their futures.
Grim stood before the assembled survivors, studying their faces with obvious satisfaction. The elimination of the uncommitted had left him with a core group that possessed the mental fortitude necessary for what was to come.
"Congratulations," he began, his voice carrying across the training ground with clear authority.
"You have passed the first test—the willingness to invest in your future. However, the real training begins now."
He paused, allowing his words to settle before continuing.
"Master Shen Lao will now begin your instruction in cultivation techniques. What you have experienced thus far has been preparation for this moment. Physical conditioning was merely the foundation upon which genuine power will be built."
Shen Lao stepped forward, his ancient presence immediately commanding absolute attention from the remaining students.
"Cultivation," the dragon began, "is the process by which one transcends their natural limitations. Through proper techniques, disciplined practice, and unwavering commitment, you will develop abilities that place you among the most formidable individuals in the Empire."