Several hundred outer sect disciples filed after him, following the bluestone-paved mountain path through a bamboo grove and into another valley.
This valley was even more secluded than the one where the test had taken place. Mountains surrounded it on all sides, while a stream babbled through the valley amid birdsong and fragrant blossoms.
Rows of cave abodes had been carved along the mountainside. Each had a small open space before its entrance, where a few stalks of green bamboo had been planted, lending the place a touch of elegance.
Sunlight filtered through the treetops, casting dappled patterns across the ground. As the breeze swept past, the bamboo grove rustled softly.
"You may choose any of these cave abodes to live in."
Su Yin stopped and turned around. With a sweep of his hand, several hundred Storage Rings flew from his palm, landing precisely in every person's hands.
Chen Changming accepted a ring and sent his divine sense inside.
There were several items within: a set of azure outer sect disciple robes, soft in texture with faintly flowing runes; an identity token; a thin booklet titled Su Clan Outer Sect Disciple Handbook; and an even thinner volume titled Azure Spirit Body-Healing Art: Beginner's Chapter.
"The robes, token, and manuals are all inside."
Su Yin said blandly, "Familiarize yourselves with the rules first. Gather here again at dawn tomorrow, when we will formally begin teaching the Azure Spirit Body-Healing Art."
With that, he turned and strode away, soon vanishing into the depths of the bamboo grove.
The valley immediately became lively.
The several hundred outer sect disciples formed groups of three or five. Some eagerly opened their manuals to read, some began selecting cave abodes, while others gathered together to talk.
Chen Changming noticed that quite a few people were converging