Ranked geniuses, peak transforming strength, and the Dragon Gate Martial Trial (first update)

The next morning.

Dawn pierced the thin mist and spilled over the summit of Lingxi Peak.

Several Inner-Door Disciples in white robes had already gathered in Lingxi Square.

They spread out, some sitting cross-legged in meditation to stabilize their internal energy, others throwing punches and kicks to hone their techniques.

Fist Wind and the shadows of palms interwove. Faint internal qi and fluctuations of internal energy filled the air, painting a scene of diligent cultivation.

Just then, a tall, straight-backed figure slowly approached from one side of the square.

She wore white robes embroidered with silver patterns, their hems lifting gently with her steps. Her bearing was poised and upright, her aura steady and restrained, with a cool sharpness in her eyes.

At her approach, the Inner-Door Disciples practicing in the square stopped and bowed, greeting her respectfully. "Greetings, Senior Sister."

Si Jiawen commanded tremendous respect among Lingxi Peak's disciples. Being called Senior Sister meant she stood first among all its disciples, her profound cultivation far surpassing her peers.

Her position on Lingxi Peak was exceptionally exalted, second only to the peak master. Even before the elders, she could stand as an equal and wield considerable influence.

She handled most important affairs among the disciples, who had always regarded her with both respect and awe.

She merely nodded, sweeping her gaze over the disciples before walking straight across the square toward the imposing Lingxi Hall ahead, her steps unhurried but never dragging.

She pushed open Lingxi Hall's heavy doors. Inside, the hall was quiet and solemn, its light somewhat dim.

A lustrous meditation cushion sat before the jade throne at the head of the hall.

Lingxi Peak Master Bai Bing sat cross-legged upon it, her eyes lightly closed. Faint white mist wreathed her body, and her presence was as deep