In a small, dilapidated building, a boy about 14 years old lay on a creaky bed.


    Shī Héng Yì, the boy in question, slowly rose from his sleep, his eyes unfocused.


    Leaning against the side of the bed, he rubbed his eyes, his body trembling slightly as he stepped onto the floor.


    Unbothered, he waded through the shallow water pooling across the floor and made his way to the desk. Picking up a cloth, he headed for the door, his feet still submerged.


    When he reached the stream, Shī Héng Yì set the bucket down and began removing his tattered clothes.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Once done, he wrung the clothes out, placed them in the bucket, and began the walk back to his small cabin. Naked but unfazed, he didn’t bother worrying about who might see him. The path was isolated, and even if someone did pass by, Shī Héng Yì wouldn’t care. He had no energy for embarrassment.


    inside, he retrieved his only other set of clothes—a simple light green robe with black trousers. Though worn and covered in patches, they were in better shape than the ones he’d been wearing.


    Today was a special day—one that would determine the futures of every 14-year-old in the village. It was the day of the aptitude test.


    For those with outstanding aptitudes, life could change dramatically, whether they were born into wealth or poverty. For better or for worse, this test was pivotal.


    Shī Héng Yì’s expression remained calm, almost detached. He hadn’t shown much emotion all day, and now was no different.


    Taking a deep breath, he began circulating the faint spiritual essence within his body. Then, with a burst of speed, he dashed up the hill, the cold morning breeze brushing against his scarred skin.