Chapter 23: Let’s Make Some Pills.
John stepped through the wide, ornate doors of the Nine Sky Martial House, a familiar clang from the hanging brass bell echoing across the hall.
The air inside buzzed with activity, more than usual.
Dozens of cultivators, mostly young and ambitious, were browsing shelves and counters filled with pill bottles, scrolls, cauldrons, and other alchemy-related items.
The scent of crushed herbs and spiritual incense hung heavy in the air.
It was a heady aroma, spiced with determination, nerves, and the unmistakable hunger for success.
John’s eyes scanned the crowd.
Nearly every person present was either at the Blood Refinement realm or higher.
Some wore clan insignias on their robes, others bore the distinct rings of minor sects, and all of them had one thing in common: they were preparing for the upcoming Blue Cauldron Sect Examination.
"Looks like the entire Eastern Province is turning up for this," John thought, adjusting the collar of his robe.
"They’re right to be excited. Blue Cauldron Sect isn’t just another sect, it’s a gateway to prestige."
As he made his way to the counter, he passed by a group discussing the entrance exam requirements.
"Heard they’re taking only fifty disciples this year."