Wooden Root: Barbara's Journey

Barbara was aware that her status as a genius in the sect attracted both respect and envy. At just 13, she had been promoted from an external disciple to an internal one in record time, chosen by the elder Wei Jian Qiu for her remarkable talent in cultivation and alchemy. With such rapid growth, the expectations placed on her only increased.

As she prepared for the next trial, her rivalry with Mei Ling was intensifying. At 16, Mei Ling was a respected internal disciple determined to become a central disciple—a title that conferred elevated status and influence within the sect. Mei Ling's ambition, combined with her talent in mystical formations, made her a formidable opponent.

One day, while walking through the sect's courtyard, Barbara saw Mei Ling animatedly chatting with other disciples. Laughter echoed, but as Barbara approached, the conversation quickly turned to whispers, and expressions changed. She could feel the judgmental and curious gazes following her.

“Hello, Barbara,” Mei Ling said, her sweet tone laced with subtext. “I heard rumors about you. You completed the Tower of Trials and became an internal disciple in less than a year. Impressive, don't you think?”

Barbara couldn’t let the provocation shake her. “Thank you, Mei Ling. But what matters is that I'm here to learn and contribute, just like all of you,” she replied, keeping her composure.

Mei Ling tilted her head, her enigmatic smile revealing a mix of admiration and rivalry. “Of course, of course. But don’t forget, Barbara. The path to becoming a central disciple is filled with challenges. I hope you’re ready to face them.” With that, she turned and left Barbara to her thoughts.

As she continued on her way, Barbara pondered what it truly meant to be a genius in the sect. With each new achievement, she attracted more curious glances, and with that, the pressure on her shoulders grew. She knew that her promotion and progress would quickly become weapons in envious hands.

The following days were marked by intense training and preparation for the upcoming trial. Barbara dedicated herself to strengthening her skills, not only in combat and alchemy but also in how to handle the sect's intrigues. The tension with Mei Ling and the respect mixed with distrust from other disciples became a constant in her life.

Finally, the day of the trial arrived. Barbara and other disciples gathered in the testing field, where the atmosphere was thick with anticipation. The Tower of Trials would not only test the disciples' skills but also their determination and character.

Mei Ling positioned herself next to Barbara, a competitive smile on her face. “I’m eager to see how you do,” she said, a glint of mischief in her eyes. “Just remember, I’m not the only one who can take you down. There are other disciples here determined to prove their worth.”

Barbara knew that the next trial would not just be about skills; it would be a test of her resilience and determination. With her new reputation as a genius, she had more to lose but also more to gain.

As the trial began, Barbara felt more determined than ever. She knew she wasn’t just competing against Mei Ling, but also facing the challenges of establishing herself as a respected cultivator in the sect. She was ready to prove her worth, not only to herself but to all who were watching.

In a sunlit room, several elders of the Eternal Chalice Sect gathered around a bamboo table, discussing the recent disciples' trials in the Tower of Trials. The atmosphere was charged with expectation, and the elders' faces reflected both concern and excitement.

Wei Jian Qiu, one of the most respected elders and Barbara's cultivation master, sat prominently, his confident demeanor evident. He looked around the table, observing his colleagues as they spoke about the trial results.

“I’m looking forward to seeing my disciple’s scores,” Wei Jian Qiu said, a smile forming on his lips. “Barbara not only passed the Tower but I believe she will exceed expectations.”

Another elder, known for his caution, raised an eyebrow. “You have a lot of faith in your disciple, Wei Jian Qiu. What makes her so special?”

Wei Jian Qiu leaned back in his chair, proud. “In addition to her natural talent, Barbara has brought immense profits to our sect as a cultivator of high-quality spiritual herbs. Her herbs have improved our alchemy and medicine, and that alone is a significant achievement. With each herb she cultivates, our sect becomes more prosperous.”

The other elders murmured, some agreeing with Wei Jian Qiu's assessment. Barbara's reputation as a genius was starting to spread among the elders, and her contributions to the sect did not go unnoticed.

“If she performs well in the trial, I might consider investing in her as a central disciple,” Wei Jian Qiu continued, his gaze resolute. “With that, we could not only strengthen our practices but also ensure that our spiritual herbs become even more valuable.”

One of the older elders, who had seen many disciples rise and fall, spoke in a grave voice. “That’s a significant commitment. The position of a central disciple should not be given lightly. If Barbara is chosen, it will be essential that she not only has talent but also the ability to lead and inspire other disciples.”

Wei Jian Qiu nodded, but his gaze was firm. “I trust Barbara. She has the determination and vision needed to thrive in a leadership role. And believe me, I will be watching her closely. She is not just a cultivator; she represents the future of our sect.”

With that, the conversation continued, but the anticipation surrounding Barbara intensified. Elder Wei Jian Qiu grew increasingly anxious about the Tower of Trials' results, knowing that her performance could determine not just her future but also the future of the Eternal Chalice Sect.

Meanwhile, Barbara was aware of all the expectations surrounding her, unaware that the gazes of several elders were upon her, weighing her achievements and the possible challenges ahead. The weight of being a genius was becoming more intense, and Barbara prepared to face not only the pressure of her evolution but also the expectations of an entire sect.