"Han Shi?" Qing Chen took some interest in the name. "How has this disciple performed?"
Lin Changsheng answered respectfully, "Although his cultivation is only at the peak Qi Refining second layer, his perseverance and courage are far from ordinary.
Not long after reaching the second layer of Qi Refining, he volunteered to accompany the Azure Dragon Stronghold's forces to wipe out the Water Bandits.
As far as I know, his parents died at the hands of these Water Bandits back then.
"On that expedition, he not only returned unscathed but also took down some enemies. That was truly commendable."
Qing Chen nodded. "Go prepare the spirit stones for the formations."
Lin Changsheng asked Qing Chen, "My lord, the minor tournament is ready. Would you care to go and watch?"
According to the Demon Lotus Sect's rules, a minor tournament was to be held every three years.
It served to test the disciples' cultivation and practical combat ability.
But the Demon Lotus Sect's minor tournament did not involve fighting in pairs on the Dueling Platform.
Instead, it employed a more distinctive and brutal method-passing trials.
Qing Chen had specifically instructed Su Zixuan, a veteran upper grade first tier formation master, to painstakingly set up two formations.
They served as two successive trials within the valley.
The first was called the Heart-Questioning Pass.
This trial consisted of a staircase a hundred zhang high that tested the disciples' character and will.
The staircase teemed with illusions: seductive beauties, terrifying horrors, and tempting treasures.
These various tests struck straight at the desires and fears in the deepest recesses of the heart.
And with every step, the pressure on their bodies increased! It was no easy task.
Climbing halfway up the staircase counted as passing.
Only disciples who could remain true to themselves and possessed