Chương 9: Su Zhe the Aspiring Blacksmith! A Disciple of the Craftsmen's Hall

A Disciple of the Craftsmen's Hall

"Mastering a martial technique in one go and reaching intermediate proficiency—so this is the power of the innate talent Strength of the Beast?" A single thought arose in the minds of all present. In martial cultivation, one's aptitude is a reflection of their potential. But aptitude isn't limited to physical traits alone. Comprehension is another critical element, though its intricacies are enigmatic and beyond definitive explanation.

Yet Su Zhe had effortlessly embodied the perfect union of talent and comprehension, leaving no room for doubt. Standing nearby, Wang Shan noticed Yu Yi's condition. In a flash, he appeared at Yu Yi's side and administered a pill. Yu Yi slowly regained consciousness. His gaze fell on Su Zhe, and his emotions churned—a mix of admiration, frustration, and disbelief.

"Incredible. Truly, the heavens favor our sect. Not only do we have a genius with Grade-A aptitude, but also one with unparalleled comprehension," Yang Dingtian murmured, his narrowed eyes brimming with pride as he stroked his beard.

"Yu Yi, Su Zhe, would either of you be interested in becoming personal disciples?" he asked, his voice tinged with anticipation. Both Wang Shan and Sun Tiexin nodded in agreement. Personal disciples! With the approval of the sect's three leaders, this title carried immense honor and privilege.

"Unbelievable! This kid's made it big!" exclaimed Master Chen, his chest heaving with excitement. For an outer apprentice trainer like him, guiding a student directly into the inner sect would yield significant rewards. But for one to be accepted as a personal disciple? That was a windfall beyond imagination. Master Chen's heart raced as he quickly stepped forward to bow to the three leaders.

"Su Zhe was trained under my supervision at the blacksmith's workshop," he declared, his voice brimming with pride. The other trainers looked on, envy and jealousy flashing in their eyes. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Why couldn't it have been me? Did Master Chen save an entire dynasty in his past life to deserve such fortune?

"I am willing to become a disciple under Hall Master Wang," Yu Yi declared, his steps unsteady as he rose to his feet.

"Approved," Wang Shan replied with a nod. The crowd shifted their attention back to Su Zhe. Su Zhe glanced at the three leaders. Based on his observations, Yang Dingtian and Wang Shan held significant authority within the sect, their influence undeniable. However, Sun Tiexin, though less involved in politics, presided over the Craftsmen's Hall, the very foundation of the sect's power. His invisible sway made him arguably the most influential figure.

Moreover, Su Zhe's keen eyes noticed the nuances: Yang Dingtian was inscrutable and shrewd, concealing his true intentions. Wang Shan, fierce and decisive, appeared to have his own agenda. Sun Tiexin, on the other hand, exuded a straightforward and hearty demeanor. Yet Su Zhe knew better than to trust appearances. In a world rife with danger and intrigue, no fool could rise to lead the Craftsmen's Hall. His path became clear.

"The incomplete Mighty Ox Hammer Technique I've learned still lacks advanced forms and killing moves," Su Zhe mused.

"If I join Yang Dingtian or Wang Shan, their sword and blade techniques will likely clash with my innate affinity."

"Besides, having a craft is crucial for survival in this world. Skilled blacksmiths, especially those capable of forging martial weapons, are well-connected and highly valued." Realizing the importance of strategy over brute force, Su Zhe made his decision. Bowing respectfully, he addressed Yang Dingtian and Wang Shan.

"Chief, Hall Master Wang, I deeply admire both of you. To achieve even a fraction of your greatness would be a dream come true for this disciple."

"However, I am drawn to the path of forging. I have sworn to pursue the pinnacles of martial and crafting arts. I hope you can forgive this decision." His words were measured, giving due respect while subtly stating his intentions. Yang Dingtian smiled warmly.

"A thoughtful choice. Though young, you show admirable composure and ambition." Wang Shan cast Su Zhe a glance but remained silent.

"Excellent! From today onward, you are my personal disciple," Sun Tiexin boomed, laughing heartily. His massive, calloused hand slapped Su Zhe's shoulder with the force of a sledgehammer. Su Zhe winced, feeling as though his bones might shatter. The appointment ceremonies concluded. Yu Yi, with his Grade-A aptitude, joined Wang Shan's Breaking Army Hall. His future seemed boundless, yet his pride was dimmed. In his heart, a shadow loomed.

By all logic, Yu Yi's superior aptitude should have placed him leagues above Su Zhe. Yet Su Zhe's effortless mastery of the Mighty Ox Hammer haunted him, evoking a faint fear.

"Root quality is everything," Wang Shan assured him.

"Tomorrow, I will begin teaching you the Fierce Tiger Blade. Master it within a year, and you will surpass all."

"Yes, Master!" Yu Yi's confidence began to return. Meanwhile, Su Zhe remained unperturbed, unaware of Yu Yi's inner turmoil. To him, Yu Yi's obsession was laughable—irrelevant even. The sect announced the induction of two new personal disciples, causing a stir among its members. Master Chen, especially, was overjoyed. With the sect's reward of silver, gold, and medicinal pills, his fortunes soared.

"Who would've thought that casually training Su Zhe would lead to such a windfall?" he marveled, gazing at the treasures before him.

"Su Zhe truly is my lucky star!" Master Chen's heartfelt sigh spoke volumes about the unpredictable twists of fate.