Chapter 7: Arnab's Trial by Fire at the Nine Dragon Sect

Arnab stood among the throngs of other candidates, eagerly awaiting the announcement of the selection process. He fidgeted nervously as the head instructor, a formidable-looking swordsman, stepped onto the platform and began to speak.

"Greetings, candidates," the instructor said, his voice booming across the courtyard. "You have all been selected to compete for a place in the Nine Dragon Sect. We will be selecting 500 outer-disciples and 200 inner-disciples, based on your performance in a series of tests."

Arnab listened intently as the instructor went on to describe the various tests they would be required to pass. His heart raced as he realized the magnitude of the opportunity before him. This was his chance to prove himself and become a true martial artist.

As the instructor spoke, Arnab noticed Sword Manic among the crowd of onlookers. He couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards the man who had recommended him for this opportunity.

"Welcome, Sword Manic," the instructor said, noticing him in the crowd. "We are honored to have you here as a guest instructor for this year's selection process."

Arnab watched as Sword Manic nodded in acknowledgement. He wondered what sort of insights the renowned swordsman would be able to provide.

The competition began with the archery test. Arnab steadied his bow and focused his attention on the moving target. He took a deep breath and released the arrow, watching as it soared through the air and struck the target with a satisfying thud. He let out a sigh of relief as he realized he had passed the first test.

Next up was the fist-fighting competition. Arnab was not as confident in this area, but he refused to give up. He dodged and weaved, landing blows where he could, and managed to take down two of his opponents. He felt a sense of satisfaction as he advanced to the final round.

The final test was the alchemy competition. Arnab knew he had an advantage here, having studied chemistry in his previous life. He set to work, carefully measuring and mixing ingredients to create a potion that would impress the judges. When he presented his creation, the judges were amazed by his ingenuity and skill.

As the selection process came to a close, Arnab felt a sense of relief and excitement. He had been selected as an outer-disciple of the Nine Dragon Sect. He was given a small pouch of bone strengthening pills, which he knew would help him develop a stronger body and improve his martial arts skills.

As he walked away from the competition grounds, Arnab couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity that had been presented to him. He had proven himself worthy of being a disciple of the Nine Dragon Sect, and he was determined to make the most of it.

"Thank you, Sword Manic," Arnab said as he approached the older man after the competition. "I couldn't have done it without your recommendation."

Sword Manic smiled. "You did it all on your own, Arnab," he said. "I merely saw potential in you. The rest was up to you."

Arnab felt a sense of pride at Sword Manic's words. He knew that he had worked hard and earned his place in the Nine Dragon Sect.

As he settled into his new life as an outer-disciple, Arnab began to train diligently, taking the bone strengthening pills as instructed. He felt his body becoming stronger, and his martial arts skills improving with each passing day.

He knew that the road ahead would be long and challenging, but he was ready to face whatever challenges came his way. He was a disciple.