The Celestial Sect's training grounds had taken on an atmosphere of mounting tension as the end of the first week approached.
What had begun as enthusiastic determination among the remaining students had gradually shifted into something more complex—a mixture of exhaustion, doubt, and whispered conversations that ceased whenever Shen Lao appeared.
Grim observed these developments from the balcony of his private quarters, watching as clusters of students gathered in the dormitory courtyards during their rest periods. Their body language spoke volumes about the internal struggles many were experiencing.
"The complaints are becoming more frequent," Chen Xing reported, joining him on the balcony with a folder of daily reports. "Several students have approached me about modifying the training regimen. Others have begun discussing departure dates."
"How many are seriously considering leaving?" Grim asked, though his tone suggested he already knew the answer.
