The Northern Heavenly Domain, the training ground was bustling with noise as a large crowd was participating in one-on-one practice. The sounds of fists and feet colliding echoed throughout the area, creating an atmosphere thick with enthusiasm and dedication.
In the spacious training field, the northeastern corner was particularly desolate, with only a small, slender figure repeatedly hitting a wooden stake. The resonating 'thump' sounds continuously echoed. The previously smooth wooden stake now appeared battered and bruised. In the corner, a pile of completely damaged wooden stakes, some even decayed were stacked.
He threw a punch, then a kick, repeating the monotonous movements continuously. His childlike face was slick with sweat. The morning sun illuminated his bare upper body, a small puddle of sweat forming beneath him. It was hard to ascertain how long he had been practicing.
As the sun ascended, the heat intensified. There were only two or three other diligent figures left practicing in the field. The rest had left to pursue their respective matters. The secluded corner in the northeastern part was lit by the harsh sunlight, his young face drenched in sweat, indicating exhaustion. Despite that, his eyes maintained an unwavering determination. He appeared rather small and skinny for a seven or eight-year-old. He was shorter than most his age, and his ribcage was distinctly visible. His arms might have been thin, but his muscles bulged with obvious strength.
Each punch and kick he threw had no flamboyance, only merciless simplicity. And gradually, as the sun went on to govern the sky, the last few individuals left the field.
"Look over there, the Third Young Master is still practicing."
"It's true. The Third Young Master is surely more diligent than anyone in our mansion. But..."
In the training ground, a few servants would clean up after the day's training had ended. Right now, they were engaged in a discussion. And the object of their discussion was the young figure in the northeastern corner.
This slight figure surprisingly was the Third Young Master of the Northern Heavenly Domain.
"It's such a pity, the Third Young Master is indeed a natural at cultivating. It's heartbreaking..."
"Shush, don't speak thoughtlessly. If the Third Young Master hears, it won't be good. Let's just focus on our work!"
The group of servants nodded in agreement, each of them picking up their brooms and continuing their cleaning. They left the corner where the Third Young Master was at alone. Their restraint wasn't due to the Third Young Master’s capricious behavior. In contrast, the Third Young Master maintained a friendly demeanor towards everyone and discriminated against no one. A long time ago, he would come to this corner and practice basic martial arts. Gradually, it became a habit of the cleaning servants to leave his corner alone as they came to respect his privacy and dedication. Initially, they would get reprimanded, but that only strengthened their resolve. Over time, this mutual understanding crystalized into a custom.
By the time the sun was overhead, and the temperature soared, nearing noon, the Third Young Master left the practice field. The servants who had been waiting in the corner breathed a sigh of relief. Without exchanging words, they dutifully started to remove the wooden stakes that the Third Young Master had damaged.
"Good day, Young Master."
As he walked by, the servants that saw him busy at work stopped what they were doing to greet him with a smile. And he, without a shred of arrogance typical to young masters, returned each greeting with a nod and a smile.
After a long walk, he finally arrived at the grand hall. The servants were bustling in and out as dish after dish of delicious food was placed on the round central table. The servants also, without exception, bowed to the Third Young Master in greeting.
"Flame, are you done with your training? Come and sit for a while; it's almost time for lunch."
The middle-aged man at the head of the table had a kind smile as he saw Flame, the Third Young Master, walk in. He called him over with a wave.
"Yes, father," replied Flame, he sat down silently next to the man. Beside Flame were four or five men and women of varying ages, engrossed in quiet conversations. A few ladies were also present, their faces bearing a touch of impatience as they watched Flame drawing near...