Amon, The lowest tier disciple in the Insanity Sect

The moment the spark appeared, the whole class gasped. Even Elder Kai raised an eyebrow. "Impressive," he muttered, stroking his beard.

I stood there, chest puffed out like I had just solved the mysteries of the universe. Li Mei glanced my way, and I swear there was a flicker of interest in her eyes. This was it the moment I proved I wasn't just some random loser!

"Let's see that spark again," Elder Kai said, motioning me to repeat the move.

Uh-oh.

I gripped the jade bead tighter, hoping it would bail me out again. I focused, imagining the spark returning, but all I got was… nothing.

"Anytime now, Amon," Elder Kai said, his tone dripping with skepticism.

"I, uh, need to recharge," I stammered, slipping the bead into my pocket.

The class erupted into laughter. Even Li Mei giggled.

Elder Kai sighed. "Sit down, Amon."

As I slumped back to my seat, the weight of my "genius" plan hit me. Turns out, stealing shortcuts wasn't as foolproof as I thought.

Or it was just me who couldn't use it effectively.