"Stop fidgeting," Elder Zhang snapped as her gnarled fingers pressed against various points along Lin Feng's spine. "Meridian assessment requires precision. Your twitching disrupts the energy flow."

  "Apologies," Lin Feng replied, attempting to hold still despite the uncomfortable pressure. "It's challenging to remain motionless while being poked in sensitive nerve clusters."

  They were in the infirmary for Lin Feng's scheduled evaluation—the morning after his second practice with the Resonant Bowl Technique and his first full day of specialized training with Elder Teng. The ancient healer had spent nearly an hour examining his meridian condition through a combination of pressure point diagnosis, pulse reading, and direct qi sensing.

  "Hmph," Elder Zhang grunted, moving her attention to a point between his shoulder blades. "Most initiates endure assessment without commentary. Your inability to suffer in silence remains your most distinctive trait."

  "I prefer to think of it as providing valuable verbal feedback during medical procedures," Lin Feng countered. "Though I acknowledge the traditional value of stoic endurance in cultivation circles."

  Elder Zhang ignored this, her focus entirely on her diagnostic work. Her weathered face revealed nothing as her fingers traced invisible patterns across Lin Feng's back, occasionally pausing to apply deeper pressure at specific points.

  Finally, she stepped back. "You may put your shirt back on. Assessment complete."

  Lin Feng quickly redressed, studying the elder's expression for clues about her findings. "So, am I harboring any dangerous qi disruptions? Imminent meridian collapse? Spontaneous combustion risks I should be aware of?"

  "Your system shows remarkable resilience," Elder Zhang said, washing her hands in a nearby basin. "The new circulation pattern has integrated without disrupting your existing channels—unusual for an accelerated training regimen."

  "That sounds positive," Lin Feng observed cautiously. "Though your tone suggests some reservations."

  Elder Zhang dried her hands deliberately before responding. "Your meridians are adapting to the Resonant Bowl Technique with unusual compatibility. However, this adaptation is occurring more rapidly than typically advisable."

  "Elder Teng would consider that a feature rather than a concern," Lin Feng noted.

  "Elder Teng," Zhang replied with evident distaste, "prioritizes results over sustainability. Quick adaptation indicates strong resonance but also creates potential instability if development occurs too rapidly."

  "Like building a house on a foundation that hasn't fully set," Lin Feng suggested.

  "An apt analogy," the old healer nodded. "Your physical meridian system shows minimal stress, but your dantian exhibits characteristics of accelerated expansion—growing to accommodate the gathered environmental qi before fully stabilizing its structure."

  "Is that dangerous?"

  "Not immediately," Zhang qualified. "But continued advancement without adequate consolidation periods could lead to containment issues."

  "Containment issues sounds ominously vague," Lin Feng remarked. "Could you be more specific about potential consequences?"

  Elder Zhang's expression softened slightly, apparently appreciating his direct question rather than taking offense. "In mild cases, energy leakage—inability to retain qi during circulation, reduced cultivation efficiency. In severe cases, meridian rupture, dantian collapse, or spiritual disconnection."

  "And that final one sounds particularly unpleasant," Lin Feng winced. "What exactly is spiritual disconnection?"

  "Separation between physical and spiritual energies," Zhang explained. "The body loses ability to channel qi effectively, potentially permanent depending on severity."

  Lin Feng absorbed this sobering information. "So you're recommending a slower progression with the Resonant Bowl Technique?"

  "I recommend adequate consolidation periods between advancement stages," Zhang clarified. "Practice the current level until your dantian fully stabilizes its expanded structure before attempting the next phase. Rushing progression invites unnecessary risk, regardless of your apparent compatibility."

  "How will I know when sufficient stabilization has occurred?" Lin Feng asked practically.

  In response, Elder Zhang reached into a nearby cabinet and withdrew a small wooden box. Opening it revealed a polished stone disk, deep black with faint silver specks that seemed to shift position when viewed from different angles.

  "Assessment stone," she explained, handing him the disk. "Cultivated over decades to respond to dantian stability. Hold it against your lower abdomen during meditation. When fully stable, the specks will form a perfect circle pattern rather than their current scattered arrangement."

  Lin Feng accepted the stone with appropriate reverence. "This seems tremendously valuable. Are you certain you wish to lend it to a mere initiate?"

  "Not lending. Giving," Zhang corrected. "I have others. This one seems particularly responsive to your energy signature—another example of your unusual resonance with certain objects."

  "Thank you, Elder Zhang," Lin Feng said, genuinely touched by the unexpected gift. "I'll use it as directed to ensure proper consolidation."

  "See that you do," she replied gruffly, though her qi projected something closer to grandmotherly concern than actual irritation. "Now, I must provide formal assessment to the Outer Hall. What would you prefer I emphasize?"

  The question caught Lin Feng by surprise—he hadn't expected to be consulted about her official report. "You're asking for my input on your medical assessment?"

  "I'm asking about emphasis, not content," Zhang clarified. "Facts remain facts—your unusual compatibility, rapid adaptation, and need for proper consolidation. But emphasis affects interpretation. I can stress your exceptional progress or the risks of acceleration. Your preference?"

  Lin Feng considered carefully, recognizing the political implications of her question. "Perhaps the most balanced approach would be acknowledging the exceptional compatibility while emphasizing the necessity of proper consolidation for optimal long-term development. Not rejecting advancement, but insisting on appropriate pacing."

  Zhang nodded approvingly. "Diplomatically balanced. You navigate sect politics with surprising sophistication for one so recently joined."

  "Three years on the streets teaches comparable skills," Lin Feng shrugged. "Resource competition, territorial disputes, alliance formation—the contexts differ but the underlying dynamics remain consistent."

  "Perspective beyond your years," Zhang observed, beginning to organize her herbs with practiced efficiency. "Maintain that perspective when ambition and opportunity tempt acceleration. The cultivation path is measured in decades, not days."

  With that parting wisdom, she gestured toward the door, indicating their session had concluded. Lin Feng tucked the assessment stone carefully into his pocket and bowed respectfully before taking his leave.

  As he headed toward his morning training with Lao Wei, he pondered the implications of Elder Zhang's evaluation. On one hand, his unusual compatibility with the Resonant Bowl Technique had been confirmed yet again by an unbiased medical assessment. On the other hand, her warnings about excessive acceleration echoed concerns raised by both Lao Wei and Mei, suggesting legitimate risk in Elder Teng's enthusiastic progression schedule.

  The assessment stone would provide objective indication of his readiness for advancement, potentially resolving the conflict between Elder Teng's ambition and the more cautious approach advocated by others. Assuming, of course, that Elder Teng would respect such empirical evidence rather than pushing for continued acceleration regardless.

  Lin Feng suspected that navigating these competing pressures would require increasing political acumen as his training progressed. At least now he had a tangible measure of his physiological readiness, removing some ambiguity from the decision-making process.

  "Ambient qi contains countless variations beyond the four elemental categories," Lao Wei explained as they sat facing each other in their usual morning training spot. "Each living thing, each natural formation, each weather pattern generates its own unique energy signature."

  They were continuing Lin Feng's perception training, now with increased focus on identifying specific qi types in preparation for the selective retention phase of the Resonant Bowl Technique. Lao Wei had been briefed on Elder Zhang's assessment and had adjusted his instruction accordingly.

  "The Resonant Bowl method you're learning from Elder Teng provides the collection framework," Lao Wei continued. "But refined perception determines the quality of what you gather. Like a fisherman with an excellent net who must still learn to recognize which catches are valuable."

  "So I need to become an energy connoisseur," Lin Feng summarized. "Developing sophisticated taste in qi rather than just the ability to gather it."

  "Precisely," Lao Wei nodded approvingly. "Today we'll focus on recognizing qi signatures from different sources, starting with plants."

  He placed several leaves before them—each from a different tree or plant, varying in size, shape, and color. "Extend your perception as I've taught you. Compare their energy patterns while noting the physical differences. Qi often reflects form, but not always in obvious ways."

  Lin Feng focused on the leaves sequentially, carefully sensing each one's unique energy signature. The broad oak leaf projected solid, enduring qi with deep earth resonance. The slender willow leaf contained flexible, water-aligned energy with adaptable flow patterns. The serrated nettle leaf pulsed with defensive, almost aggressive qi despite its small size.

  "They each have distinct personalities," Lin Feng observed after completing his examination. "The physical form does seem to influence energy characteristics, though not exclusively defining them."

  "Good observation," Lao Wei confirmed. "Form and energy exist in mutual relationship—each influencing the other through continuous interaction. Now, close your eyes and I'll place one leaf in your hand. Identify it solely through qi perception."

  They practiced this exercise repeatedly, with Lin Feng gradually improving his ability to distinguish the leaves without visual reference. By the session's end, he could identify each plant correctly through energy signature alone.

  "Excellent progress," Lao Wei noted. "Next session we'll advance to objects with more complex compositions. The greater the variety of energies you can precisely identify, the more effectively you'll utilize the Resonant Bowl Technique."

  As they concluded their training, Lin Feng showed Lao Wei the assessment stone Elder Zhang had provided. "She recommended using this to monitor dantian stability before advancing to subsequent stages."

  Lao Wei examined the stone with evident respect. "An extremely valuable tool. Elder Zhang must think highly of your potential to part with such a carefully cultivated item."

  "She emphasized the importance of proper consolidation between advancement phases," Lin Feng explained. "The stone provides objective indication of readiness rather than relying on subjective assessment."

  "A wise approach," Lao Wei agreed. "I suggest using it during your evening meditation to establish a baseline measurement, then monitoring changes as you continue practicing the current stage of the technique."

  "And if Elder Teng pushes for faster advancement before the stone indicates stability?" Lin Feng asked, though he already anticipated the answer.

  "You have multiple teachers providing guidance based on their respective expertise," Lao Wei replied diplomatically. "Medical assessment from an experienced healer represents significant evidence that would be difficult for any instructor to dismiss entirely."

  It was the political equivalent of providing Lin Feng with ammunition for potential disagreements with Elder Teng—not directly undermining a fellow elder's authority, but supplying objective grounds for resistance if necessary.

  "I understand," Lin Feng nodded. "Thank you for your guidance, Elder Lao Wei. Your balanced perspective continues to provide valuable context for my training."

  Lao Wei's eyes crinkled with subtle amusement. "Your diplomatic phrasing develops as rapidly as your cultivation, young Lin Feng. Both skills will serve you well in navigating the path ahead."

  Midday brought qi manipulation training with Mei, who had adjusted her instruction to complement both Lao Wei's perception exercises and Elder Teng's work with the Resonant Bowl Technique. Today's focus was on projecting specific qi qualities rather than general energy—learning to express particular elements or characteristics through external manipulation.

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  "The quality of projected energy significantly affects its influence on targets," Mei explained as they sat in their usual courtyard. "Different materials respond to different qi types. Effectiveness depends on compatibility."

  She arranged several small objects before them—a candle, a cup of water, a potted seedling, and a feather similar to Elder Teng's elements. "Basic temperature manipulation, as you've been practicing, represents generalized influence. Today we refine that approach by projecting specific energy qualities."

  "Matching the projected qi to the target's natural affinity," Lin Feng surmised. "Fire-aligned energy for the candle, water-aligned for the cup, and so forth."

  "Correct," Mei confirmed. "Begin with the water cup. Instead of simply warming it through general heat projection, try to influence it with specifically water-aligned qi—energy that embodies flow, adaptability, and cohesion."

  Lin Feng focused on the cup, extending his perception to fully sense the water's energy characteristics before attempting to project similar qualities from his own qi. Rather than simply pushing warmth outward as he had in previous exercises, he visualized his energy adopting fluid, adaptable properties before extending it toward the target.

  The result was subtle but undeniable—the water responded more readily than to general energy projection, rippling in harmonious patterns that suggested enhanced resonance with his qi.

  "The response is stronger," he observed. "Less resistance than with non-specific projection."

  "Like speaks to like," Mei nodded. "When projected qi matches target characteristics, influence occurs more efficiently with less energy expenditure. This principle applies across all manipulation techniques."

  They continued practicing with each element, with Lin Feng gradually learning to adjust his projected qi to match the inherent qualities of each target. The candle flame strengthened when influenced with active, transformative energy. The seedling responded to nurturing, growth-oriented qi. The feather moved more readily when affected by light, mobile energies.

  "This directly complements the Resonant Bowl Technique," Lin Feng realized as they concluded the session. "Gathering environmental qi with specific qualities, then projecting those same qualities for enhanced effect."

  "The sect's training methods are more integrated than they might initially appear," Mei acknowledged. "Despite philosophical differences, the elders generally coordinate instructional approaches for optimal development."

  "Speaking of integration," Lin Feng said, showing her the assessment stone, "Elder Zhang provided this to monitor dantian stability between advancement stages."

  Mei examined the stone with evident recognition. "A stability monitor. Extremely useful for managing progressive techniques with expansion characteristics."

  "Elder Zhang emphasized the importance of proper consolidation," Lin Feng explained. "The stone will indicate when my dantian has fully stabilized each expansion, providing objective guidance for advancement timing."

  Something like approval flickered across Mei's typically impassive features. "A prudent approach. Combining Elder Teng's technique knowledge with Elder Zhang's medical expertise creates appropriate balance."

  "Assuming all parties respect the objective measurement," Lin Feng noted.

  "Politics and cultivation are inseparable within sect structures," Mei replied matter-of-factly. "Learning to navigate both simultaneously is essential training for any who seek advancement beyond basic levels."

  Coming from the typically reserved Mei, this frank acknowledgment of sect politics represented unusual candor. Lin Feng suspected she was becoming more forthcoming as his position within the sect evolved from simple initiate to potential factional asset.

  "I appreciate your increasing directness," he said. "Navigating these waters becomes easier with accurate maps."

  Mei studied him with characteristic intensity before responding. "Maps show terrain but not intent. Remember that when interpreting guidance from any source—including mine."

  With that characteristically cryptic advisory, she concluded their session, leaving Lin Feng to contemplate her warning as he prepared for his afternoon training with Elder Teng.

  "Selective retention represents the true power of the Resonant Bowl Technique," Elder Teng declared enthusiastically as they settled into their positions in the west courtyard. "Today we advance beyond simple collection and observation to actually incorporating beneficial energies into your cultivation."

  Lin Feng noted that the elder had already determined they would progress to the next stage, apparently anticipating a positive report from Elder Zhang. Deciding to address this directly, he retrieved the assessment stone from his pocket.

  "Elder Zhang provided this stability monitor during this morning's evaluation," he explained, showing the stone disk. "She indicated my dantian shows signs of accelerated expansion that require proper consolidation before advancement."

  Elder Teng's expression tightened momentarily before smoothing into careful neutrality. "Elder Zhang is characteristically cautious in her assessments. While her medical expertise is valuable, her understanding of the Resonant Bowl Technique's particular requirements is necessarily limited."

  "She specifically mentioned the risks of progression without adequate stability," Lin Feng persisted. "Including potential meridian rupture or dantian collapse in severe cases."

  "Theoretical concerns based on conventional cultivation patterns," Elder Teng dismissed, though with slightly less confidence. "Your constitution has repeatedly demonstrated exceptional compatibility with this technique, suggesting standard risk assessments may not apply."

  Lin Feng weighed his options carefully. Direct opposition would likely entrench Elder Teng's position, potentially damaging their instructional relationship. Instead, he opted for a diplomatic compromise.

  "Perhaps we could integrate Elder Zhang's medical insights with your technical expertise," he suggested. "The stability monitor provides objective measurement of dantian condition. What if we begin introducing selective retention concepts while continuing to monitor consolidation progress? If the stone indicates any stability issues, we can adjust accordingly."

  Elder Teng considered this proposal, clearly calculating political implications alongside cultivation concerns. Finally, he nodded with grudging approval.

  "A reasonable accommodation," he conceded. "We'll proceed with theoretical instruction and minimal practical application of selective retention while monitoring your dantian condition. When the stone indicates sufficient stability, we'll advance to full implementation."

  Lin Feng bowed respectfully, masking his relief at this successful negotiation. "Thank you, Elder Teng. I value your knowledge of this technique and wish to learn it properly, with appropriate respect for both its potential and its requirements."

  Somewhat mollified by this deference, Elder Teng proceeded with the day's instruction—explaining the principles of selective retention while demonstrating with his own energy manipulation.

  "The Resonant Bowl Technique differs from conventional cultivation methods in its approach to external energy," he explained. "Most cultivators automatically reject foreign qi as potentially disruptive to their personal energy system. The Resonant Bowl method instead teaches discernment—identifying compatible energies that can be safely incorporated while releasing the remainder."

  He traced a diagram in the air with glowing qi, illustrating the process. "When energy collects in your dantian 'bowl,' you'll learn to recognize qualities that harmonize with your core essence. These compatible energies can be gradually absorbed into your meridian system, supplementing your cultivation while the remaining qi is released back to the environment."

  "How do I determine compatibility?" Lin Feng asked, studying the illustrated energy flows with fascination.

  "Initially through resonance sensation—compatible energies create a harmonious vibration when brought into contact with your core qi. With practice, this assessment becomes increasingly intuitive." Elder Teng's eyes gleamed with scholarly enthusiasm. "The truly remarkable aspect of the technique is that compatible energy types often evolve as your cultivation advances. What resonates with your system today may differ from what resonates tomorrow, allowing continuous adaptation to changing circumstances."

  "Like the Beggars' Sect philosophy itself," Lin Feng observed. "Finding value in whatever resources become available rather than requiring specific inputs."

  "Precisely!" Elder Teng looked delighted by this connection. "The technique and the sect's fundamental approach mirror each other perfectly—both embodying adaptability, resourcefulness, and finding strength in circumstances others would consider limiting."

  They spent the remainder of the session practicing enhanced perception of qi compatibility—not yet attempting actual retention, but developing the discernment necessary to identify appropriate energies for future absorption. Elder Teng demonstrated using his own energy, showing how compatible qi created harmonious resonance patterns while incompatible types generated dissonant vibrations.

  By the session's end, Lin Feng had developed a basic understanding of compatibility assessment, though actual implementation would wait until his dantian showed greater stability. Elder Teng, while clearly impatient to advance, had maintained the compromise agreement, focusing on theoretical foundations rather than pushing for premature practical application.

  "Use the stability monitor during evening meditation," the elder instructed as they concluded. "Record the pattern of specks and their movement. When they begin forming circular arrangements, inform me immediately—that will indicate readiness for practical selective retention."

  "Of course, Elder Teng," Lin Feng agreed. "I'm eager to advance when properly prepared."

  As he left the west courtyard, Lin Feng reflected on the day's political and cultivational developments. He had successfully navigated Elder Teng's acceleration pressure while maintaining a productive training relationship, using Elder Zhang's medical assessment as leverage without creating direct confrontation. Meanwhile, his understanding of the Resonant Bowl Technique continued to deepen, revealing increasingly elegant connections between its methodology and broader Beggars' Sect philosophy.

  The remainder of the afternoon was spent on routine sect duties—cleaning assigned areas, helping with meal preparation, and other mundane tasks that initiates performed regardless of their specialized training status. Lin Feng welcomed this brief return to normalcy, using the simple physical work as a chance to integrate the day's various lessons while connecting with fellow initiates.

  Crooked Yang joined him for washing duty, eager for updates on his specialized training. "So now you're collecting energy like rainwater and sorting it like grain," he summarized after Lin Feng explained the basic concept. "That seems tremendously useful compared to what the rest of us are learning."

  "It's specialized rather than superior," Lin Feng corrected, scrubbing a particularly stubborn pot. "Everyone receives training aligned with their natural aptitudes. Your physical cultivation is advancing faster than mine—your stances are already more stable and powerful."

  "True," Crooked Yang acknowledged without false modesty. "Stone Fist says my curved spine actually creates unusual stability once properly aligned. Something about 'compensatory muscle development' creating stronger foundation."

  "See? Each person's unique characteristics create different cultivation advantages," Lin Feng pointed out. "The sect seems genuinely skilled at identifying and developing individual potential rather than forcing everyone through identical training."

  "Still, your 'special constitution' has certainly created interesting opportunities," Crooked Yang observed. "Little Rat says the entire Outer Hall meeting last night was dominated by discussion of your training program."

  Lin Feng nearly dropped the pot he was washing. "How could she possibly know what happened at a secret elder council meeting?"

  Crooked Yang shrugged. "She mentioned something about ventilation shafts providing excellent acoustics. I've stopped questioning her information-gathering methods—they're disturbing but reliable."

  "That child needs supervision and boundaries," Lin Feng muttered, though without real conviction. "Did she happen to mention any conclusions from this leadership discussion about my apparently fascinating training regimen?"

  "Something about 'balanced oversight,' whatever that means," Crooked Yang replied. "Apparently they're forming a special committee to monitor your development—representatives from different factions to ensure no single approach dominates."

  "Wonderful," Lin Feng sighed. "More people watching my every move and reporting to their respective masters. Just what my cultivation needs—an audience with competing agendas."

  "Fame has its burdens," Crooked Yang teased. "Though on the positive side, it means you've been deemed valuable enough to warrant formal oversight structures rather than merely interesting enough for casual observation."

  "A promotion from curiosity to asset," Lin Feng nodded. "The pinnacle of initiate achievement."

  Their conversation shifted to more routine matters as they completed their chores. By the time evening meditation arrived, Lin Feng was mentally prepared to begin using Elder Zhang's assessment stone to establish a baseline measurement of his dantian stability.

  Finding a quiet corner in the dormitory—relative privacy being the best he could hope for—Lin Feng settled into his meditation posture and placed the black stone disk against his lower abdomen as instructed. Clearing his mind, he extended his perception inward, focusing on his dantian while allowing the stone to respond to its condition.

  After several minutes of quiet meditation, he opened his eyes and examined the stone. The silver specks had shifted position during the session, now forming a loose pattern resembling a crescent rather than their previous random arrangement. According to Elder Zhang's explanation, a perfect circle would indicate complete stability, while intermediate patterns showed partial consolidation in progress.

  The crescent formation suggested his dantian had begun adapting to the Resonant Bowl Technique but remained significantly short of full stability. This objective measurement confirmed Elder Zhang's assessment—advancement to practical selective retention would indeed be premature at this stage, potentially risking the structural integrity of his energy center.

  Lin Feng found himself relieved by this clear confirmation. Having tangible evidence of his developmental status removed ambiguity and provided objective grounds for maintaining appropriate training pacing regardless of Elder Teng's enthusiasm or factional pressures.

  As he prepared for sleep, Little Rat materialized beside his mat with her typical silent approach. "The committee has been formed," she whispered, confirming Crooked Yang's earlier information. "Five members—one from each major faction plus an independent assessor."

  "And who are these five individuals who'll be scrutinizing my every cultivation breakthrough?" Lin Feng asked resignedly.

  "Elder Teng representing the Historical Recovery faction," Little Rat began, ticking off fingers. "Lao Wei for the Adaptive Modernists. Elder Shen for the Traditional Conservatives. Senior Disciple Mei as technical specialist. And..." she hesitated.

  "And?" Lin Feng prompted.

  "Master Zhu of the Floating Reed Society as external assessor," she finished. "Unusual to include an outsider in sect training oversight."

  Lin Feng frowned, recalling his brief but unsettling meeting with the elegant scholar and his mysterious silk-wrapped object. "Very unusual. Did they explain this decision?"

  Little Rat shook her head. "Only mentioned something about 'broader implications requiring external perspective.' Whatever that means."

  It meant, Lin Feng suspected, that his training had significance beyond internal sect politics—extending to relationships or agreements with outside organizations. The Floating Reed Society's continuing interest suggested connections he didn't yet understand but which clearly involved his "resonant constitution" and the rediscovered technique.

  "The plot thickens," he murmured. "Any idea when this distinguished committee begins its observation duties?"

  "Tomorrow morning," Little Rat replied. "First official assessment session. All five members will observe your current progress and establish monitoring protocols."

  "Marvelous," Lin Feng sighed. "Nothing enhances cultivation like performing for a critical audience with competing agendas. I should prepare my most impressive qi demonstrations to properly entertain my distinguished observers."

  "Just be natural," Little Rat advised with unexpected seriousness. "They're looking for genuine capability, not performance. Authenticity impresses more than show."

  Lin Feng studied his young friend with renewed appreciation. Despite her age and occasionally disturbing information-gathering methods, Little Rat consistently offered surprisingly mature insights.

  "Wise counsel," he acknowledged. "I'll focus on honest demonstration rather than impression management."

  As Little Rat slipped away to her own sleeping mat, Lin Feng contemplated the following day's assessment with mixed feelings. The formation of a formal oversight committee represented significant escalation in the sect's interest in his development—simultaneously flattering and concerning. Whatever potential they saw in his unusual constitution and compatibility with the Resonant Bowl Technique, it clearly warranted unprecedented attention from the highest levels of sect leadership.

  Tomorrow would provide his first direct interaction with the complete factional landscape—representatives from all major philosophical divisions within the sect, plus the mysterious external observer whose interest remained the most puzzling aspect of the entire situation. Lin Feng resolved to approach this assessment with careful observation of his own, paying as much attention to the observers and their interactions as they would undoubtedly pay to his cultivation demonstration.

  Knowledge remained his most valuable asset in navigating the increasingly complex political waters surrounding his training. Tomorrow would provide unprecedented opportunity to gather information about the various interests invested in his development, potentially clarifying the larger game in which he had unwittingly become a central piece.

  With these thoughts cycling through his mind, Lin Feng finally drifted into sleep, his dreams filled with swirling patterns of silver specks gradually forming perfect circles against a backdrop of endless black stone.