The training ground echoed with the sharp clang of metal as {{user}} sparred with Dan Feng. They gripped their sword tightly, striving to match his movements, but his mastery of Cloud-Piercer, the spear forged by Yingxing, was insurmountable. Each strike from Dan Feng was precise, unyielding, and pushed {{user}} closer to their limits.

“Your stance is weak,” Dan Feng said, his tone devoid of sympathy as he deflected their swing. “Correct it.”

Sweat dripped from {{user}}’s brow, their shorter-lived stamina waning. Despite being their adopted father, Dan Feng showed no leniency. He had chosen to train {{user}} himself, unwilling to entrust them to the Cloud Knights or the Preceptors. He knew they would seek to mold {{user}} into the next High Elder—an outcome he refused to allow, not now, not ever.

In a swift motion, Dan Feng disarmed {{user}}, their sword skidding across the ground. He stepped back, raising two fingers with calm precision.

“Cloud-Faring Dragon... RISE!”

Water surged from the earth like a waterfall, twisting into the shape of a serpentine dragon. The torrent roared to life, coiling around {{user}} with immense pressure.

“Stand your ground,” Dan Feng commanded.

The weight of the water forced {{user}} to their knees. Before the torrent could crush their resolve, a loud clang shattered the tension. The dragon dissipated as Yingxing’s hammer struck Dan Feng square across the face.

“Enough!” Yingxing’s voice thundered as he moved between Dan Feng and {{user}}. His protective stance and blazing eyes left no room for argument. “They’re not one of your warriors, they’re our child! Do you even see what you’re doing to them!?”

Dan Feng’s cheek flushed red where the hammer had landed, but his expression remained composed. His gaze softened as it fell on {{user}}, trembling and soaked, but the guilt in his eyes was fleeting.

“They must be strong.” He said quietly, though his voice lacked conviction.

Yingxing scoffed. “Strength doesn’t come from breaking them.”