Chapter 10: Appetite
Sixth Elder led the trio out of the cave, his steps firm yet unhurried. They soon reached a secluded cabin hidden behind dense thickets, guarded by another squad of peak rank two formation apprentices, their eyes sharp and expressions indifferent. The guards saluted the elder before silently stepping aside to let them enter.
Inside the cabin, a single table stood in the center, upon which lay a thick, yellowed ledger, an inkstone, and a slender, finely crafted brush. Without wasting any time, the Sixth Elder turned his gaze to Wang Shui. "Wang Shui, come forward and show me your right hand."
Wang Shui stepped up, extending his right hand with the pride of someone who knew his worth. The Sixth Elder's eyes gleamed as he observed the intricate formation mark on Wang Shui's palm—a sharp, fierce design reminiscent of a blade mid-swing. He nodded, his thoughts calm. As expected, his father must have guided him well. This formation is perfectly suited to his lineage.
Dipping the brush into the ink, the Sixth Elder carefully wrote, "Wang Shui = Sword Explosion Formation" in the ledger, the wet ink reflecting the dim lantern light for a moment before settling into the ancient paper's grain.
Next, he turned to Wang Mei. "Wang Mei, your turn."
She approached with a graceful, yet confident stride, extending her right hand. The mark on her palm was a swirling, coiled pattern, like the shell of a tightly wound blade. The Sixth Elder's gaze softened slightly. As expected, the Sword Will Shell,perfect for her sharp, defensive fighting style.
He wrote her entry with a steady hand, "Wang Mei = Sword Will Shell", before closing his eyes briefly, as if sealing the moment in his mind.
Finally, it was Wang Ming's turn. The Sixth Elder's eyes lingered on him for a second longer before gesturing him forward. "Wang Ming, step up."
Wang Ming extended his right hand without hesitation. The elder's expression shifted as his eyes locked onto the mark on Wang Ming's palm—a formation mark that seemed to ripple with a faint, dark intent, three interlocking sword symbols that pulsed like a hidden heartbeat. The elder's mind turned, his thoughts flowing like a silent river. Hmm... not as straightforward as the others, but not without potential. However, it demands immense practice and concentration in its early stages. For someone without a strong backing, this formation is a risky choice. Yet... it shows his decisiveness.