The youth before them, despite his imposing build, greeted them with a wide, welcoming smile. His face, though rough, seemed surprisingly approachable.
"You must be the new recruits, right?" he asked, his voice warm, but with an odd gleam in his eyes, his brows arching slightly as he observed them.
Xiao Ming and the others nodded, confirming their status as newcomers. Indeed, they had gotten quite lost on their very first day at the Heavenly Moon Sect—a reputation none of them were proud of.
"Actually, you didn't miss your way," the youth continued, his tone light, almost teasing. "You went through a test. It's a standard experience for new disciples joining the sect through the Sect Meet. It's the only test you might ever face here."
The rest of the group exchanged confused glances, and the youth, seemingly enjoying their uncertainty, gave a knowing smile.