Rebirth of Bi Gan: A Male Student Traverses the “Investiture of God”

Zhang Hao and Lin Yue embarked on the stone steps leading to Qingchuan Sect, their feelings becoming increasingly tense with each ascent. On either side of the path, ancient trees reached for the sky, and clouds swirled around them, as if they were traversing a passage to the realm of immortals.

"Zhang Hao, why do I feel more and more exhausted? It seems like these steps never end," Lin Yue's voice trembled slightly, her forehead beaded with fine sweat.

Zhang Hao also felt an inexplicable fatigue. He looked back to see the stone steps winding upwards like a dragon, disappearing from sight. "Perhaps these steps are a test in themselves. Although we have cultivated, this sense of exhaustion doesn't seem to be purely physical."

Lin Yue bit her lower lip tightly; her steps were heavy, but her eyes shone with an unyielding light. "No matter what, we can't give up here. Our goal is Qingchuan Sect, to become true cultivators."

Zhang Hao nodded, his eyes also burning with determination. "That's right, we can't fall here. Let's keep going."

As they climbed, they encountered cultivators from all over, each harboring the same dreams and goals. Among them, a chubby young man caught Lin Yue's attention. Dressed in luxurious clothes and always with a smile, his plump and short stature made him somewhat endearing. Strangely, despite his appearance, the chubby man was exceptionally nimble and seemed at ease even while climbing the heavenly ladder. When tired, he would occasionally pull out some pills from his pocket and swallow them, seemingly fighting fatigue in this manner.

As the steps rose higher, the sense of exhaustion grew more intense. Lin Yue, hampered by her previous injuries, found her steps becoming increasingly difficult. Her body swayed slightly, and Zhang Hao immediately supported her. "Lin Yue, are you alright?"

Lin Yue shook her head, but her face had turned pale. At that moment, the chubby man approached and pulled a small jade vial from his pocket. "This young lady doesn't look too good. I have some pills here that can restore stamina and might be of help."

Zhang Hao and Lin Yue exchanged glances, and Lin Yue took the vial, pouring out a pill and swallowing it. Soon, her face regained its rosiness, and she felt a warm energy circulating within her, alleviating her fatigue. "Thank you, this pill is really effective."

The chubby man waved his hand with a smile. "No need to thank me. My name is Li Bao. I'm glad I could help. Let's cheer each other on; the selection for Qingchuan Sect is not easy, and we can go further by helping each other."

As time passed, more and more cultivators, unable to endure the physical strain, chose to give up, descending the steps with hearts full of regret. Eventually, when Zhang Hao, Lin Yue, and Li Bao reached the summit, they found that less than half of the original crowd remained.

An elder dressed in a green robe appeared before them, his eyes as sharp as an eagle's, and an aura of power emanating from him. "I am an elder of Qingchuan Sect, in charge of this selection's assessment. That you stand here shows you possess a certain level of perseverance and potential."

The elder waved his hand, and a gentle radiance bathed all the cultivators. Zhang Hao, Lin Yue, and Li Bao immediately felt a warm current spread throughout their bodies, sweeping away their previous exhaustion. They exchanged surprised glances, marveling at the magic of the cultivation world.

Li Bao's eyes sparkled when he saw the elder's technique, clapping his hands excitedly. "Wow, is this the magic of Qingchuan Sect? That's so cool! Can I learn such spells too?"

The elder was amused by Li Bao's reaction, a hint of teasing in his voice. "If you pass all the tests, you will naturally learn more."

"This is a small trick of Qingchuan Sect to restore your strength," the elder's voice carried a note of approval. "Your performance has proven your perseverance and potential. But remember, this is only the beginning; more challenges await you."

Lin Yue and Zhang Hao shared a smile, knowing they had successfully passed the first test. It was not just a test of their physical strength but a honing of their will.

The elder continued, "These steps are called the 'Heavenly Ladder,' the first threshold for Qingchuan Sect's disciple selection. It tests not only your physical strength but also your will and determination. Next, you will face two more severe tests."

The elder's voice turned solemn: "The second test is the 'Demonic Heart Trial,' where you will confront the fears and desires deep within your hearts; only those with firm minds can pass. The third test is the 'Spiritual Power Assessment,' which will measure the purity and potential of your spiritual power, key to becoming a disciple of Qingchuan Sect."

Zhang Hao and Lin Yue nodded, their hearts filled with anticipation for what lay ahead. They knew this was just the beginning, but they were ready to face the upcoming challenges.

As the bells of Qingchuan Sect rang out, the selection officially commenced. Zhang Hao and Lin Yue took a deep breath, knowing this would be one of the most important moments of their lives.

The elder's gaze swept over the crowd, his voice ringing out once more: "Remember, Qingchuan Sect selects disciples not only based on your cultivation but also on your character and potential. I hope you all show your best selves."

Zhang Hao and Lin Yue clenched their fists, their eyes gleaming with determination. They were ready to move forward bravely, no matter how difficult the path ahead.

Li Bao walked over to Zhang Hao and Lin Yue, smiling broadly. "Hey, it looks like we're all moving on to the next round. Let's keep cheering each other on for the upcoming tests! I'm really looking forward to learning more magical techniques!"

Zhang Hao and Lin Yue exchanged a smile, knowing that this amusing chubby man, Li Bao, would be their companion in the challenges ahead at Qingchuan Sect.