The morning sun spilled golden light over the Gu Clan's courtyard. Birds chirped, wind rustled through bamboo groves, and the faint scent of incense hung in the air.
To many visitor, Gu Tian appeared to be a quiet, ordinary boy. Hands folded neatly behind his back, black hair slightly tousled, he walked with the calm confidence of someone who had nowhere to rush. But those who knew even a fraction of cultivation understood, this child was no ordinary boy.
"Today, we test the children's spiritual energy," the elder announced, holding a small crystal aloft. "Channel your energy into the crystal. Whoever manages the most, wins."
The other children cheered nervously, some bouncing on their toes, eager to show off.
Gu Tian stepped forward. His silver eyes swept the courtyard lazily, taking in the struggling children. Crystals cracked. Sparks flew. Shouts of pain echoed across the stone floor.
Boring, he thought. They all struggle, yet they think they're strong.
The crystal in front of him seemed fragile, almost mocking in its simplicity. Without moving his hands, he focused, not much, just a faint pulse.
The crystal shattered. Not with a violent bang, but like a sunrise bursting through clouds, scattering golden shards that floated in midair before fading into light.
A stunned silence fell.
The elders froze. "He… he did it without even touching it…" one whispered.
"Suppressing his power… at age five…" another muttered, eyes wide.
The other children stared, some frozen with awe, some trembling in fear.
Then came Liang Chen, the clan's "gifted prodigy." His chest puffed with pride, and a smug grin crossed his face. "Little Gu Tian," he sneered, "don't think you can outshine me. This is my test. I will show you your place."
Gu Tian tilted his head, observing him. Curious…
Liang Chen raised his hand, energy coiling around him like a serpent ready to strike. With a flick of his wrist, he lunged.
Gu Tian waved his hand lightly. A force subtle yet unyielding, pushed Liang Chen back ten meters. He hit the ground hard, coughing and stunned.
"Impossible…" one elder whispered.
The boy's silver eyes glimmered faintly. A tiny, almost invisible smile touched his lips.
The world… is far too small, he thought.
And in that quiet courtyard, surrounded by the whispers of astonished adults and frightened children, the first ripple of Gu Tian's return to the peak began.