I charged towards Lan Sheng, my mind racing ahead of my body. Each step I took was calculated, and each breath was measured. The Celestial Mind Illuminating Elixir had heightened my senses to an extraordinary degree. I could see the slightest tension in Lan Sheng''s muscles, anticipate his movements before he even made them.
My first move was a feint - a swift jab towards his torso, intended to draw his guard down. Lan Sheng, however, was unfazed. His eyes, sharp and focused, followed my movements with a calm precision. As expected, he easily parried my strike, a faint smile playing on his lips.
"Not bad, Kai, but you''ll have to do better than that," Lan Sheng said, his voice calm and collected.
I nodded, acknowledging his skill. The Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn had supercharged my body, infusing me with a strength and agility I had never experienced before. I felt like I could take on the world, but Lan Sheng was no ordinary opponent.
I lunged forward again, attempting a low kick aimed at his ankles. Lan Sheng''s reaction was swift. He sidestepped, avoiding my attack with an ease that spoke of years of training and experience.
I didn''t let up. My next move was a combination - a quick succession of punches aimed at various points, trying to break through his defense. But Lan Sheng was like a fortress, his blocks and parries a dance of martial prowess.
Then he spoke, his voice steady, "My turn now, Kai."
Lan Sheng shifted into offense, his palms moving in a blur. The strikes were light but fast, each one a test of my reflexes. I dodged and weaved, barely keeping up with his assault. His style was fluid, each movement seamlessly flowing into the next.
Then came the feint - a series of palm strikes that forced me to backpedal, only to realize it was a setup for a leg sweep. My heightened senses caught the shift in his stance, the subtle transfer of weight. I stepped back, narrowly avoiding the sweep, but still got clipped on one leg, throwing me off balance.
I stumbled, rolling awkwardly to avoid a follow-up strike aimed at my chest. The roll was far from graceful, a last-ditch effort to evade his attack. I managed to get back on my feet, panting slightly from the exertion.
Compared to me, Lan Sheng seemed unruffled. His hair, tied neatly into a bun, didn''t have a single strand out of place.
"Would you like to continue, Kai?"
I nodded, trying to slow down my heartrate with deep breaths. "Yes. Please humor this junior, Senior. I''d like to see the full extent of my potions."
He chuckled.
"Very well, let''s see how far you can push yourself," Lan Sheng replied, adopting a more relaxed stance, one that seemed mischievous, almost playful. His fighting style was a stark contrast to Feng Wu''s. While Feng Wu waited for openings and struck with precision, Lan Sheng was like a relentless storm of deceptive strikes, making it difficult to predict his next move. It almost felt like he was toying with me, but there was no hint of arrogance in his demeanor, just a sense of enjoyment in pushing me to my limits.
As we resumed our spar, I tried to adapt to his unpredictable style. Lan Sheng''s movements were fluid, his attacks coming from unexpected angles, keeping me on my toes with his cat-like agility. He threw a barrage of strikes, each one seemingly casual but packed with intent. It was a dance of feints and real attacks, a test of my reaction and adaptability.
Despite my enhanced senses and agility from the potions, I found myself struggling to keep up with his relentless assault. Lan Sheng''s style was not just about physical prowess; it was about outsmarting the opponent, and he was doing it masterfully. My mental energy was dwindling rapidly.
The effects of the Celestial Mind Illuminating Elixir began to wane, and I felt my heightened awareness slipping away. My reactions slowed, and Lan Sheng''s strikes became harder to anticipate. I tried to compensate with the physical boost from the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn, but it was a losing battle.
In a moment of panic, I decided to switch tactics. I grounded myself in the Rooted Banyan Stance, envisioning myself entrenched in the earth, becoming an unmovable force. I tensed my body, channeling my qi to harden my muscles.
Lan Sheng''s next strike came, a palm thrust aimed at my chest. I took it head-on, absorbing the impact with my fortified stance. The surprise in his eyes was evident, but it was short-lived. He quickly adjusted, dodging my straight punch and delivering a powerful kick to my midsection.
The kick sent me crashing to a pile of autumn leaves, the effects of the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn fading away. I groaned in pain, feeling a headache, fatigue, and body soreness from the impact. The ground beneath me seemed to spin as I tried to catch my breath.
Lan Sheng offered me a hand, helping me to my feet. "I''ve seen your spars against the third-class disciples. Those potions of yours truly made a difference in performance."
"Enough to beat Li Na or Han Wei perhaps?"
"...But you must remember, these potions are crutches. Don''t get too reliant on them. Considering the drawbacks, you may even have to consider whether it''s worth fighting with it or not if you expect the match to be a prolonged one."
I don''t particularly appreciate how he deflected my question, but I nodded. He was right, relying on my potions wasn''t a long-term solution. But I think it''d be better than nothing. Perhaps I should leave it as a trump card if the battle becomes a prolonged one?
Lan Sheng continued, his tone shifting to that of a mentor, "Moreover, your style is too straightforward, Kai. In a real battle, predictability is a weakness. You need to mix things up, and deviate from your normal pattern now and then."
I listened intently, absorbing his advice. Lan Sheng was experienced, and his insights were invaluable.
"Surprise is a weapon in itself. Save some techniques for critical moments, and think outside the box more. For instance, use your environment to your advantage, or feint with one technique and switch to another unexpectedly. I remember during a spar against Instructor Xia Ji, she''d..."
He demonstrated a few examples, showing how a simple change in rhythm or an unexpected move could throw off an opponent.
We spent the next few hours discussing various techniques and ideas, with Lan Sheng pointing out nuances and strategies I hadn''t considered before. The sun began to set, casting long shadows across the training ground, littered with a carpet of fallen leaves.
As we wrapped up, Lan Sheng flashed a mischievous grin. "Now, for helping you with this spar, how about you help me with something in return? Instructor Xia Ji usually has me sweep this training ground. Care to take over for today?"
I chuckled, realizing this was likely his plan all along. "Sure, I owe you one." I grabbed a broom and started sweeping the leaves, which seemed to have fallen in greater numbers than usual. The ground was covered in a thick layer of autumn colors, due to the Verdant Lotus sect''s lush surroundings.
Sweeping the leaves, a spark of an idea ignited in my mind. The duel with the Silent Moon sect ¨C I had the privilege of selecting the location if I were to win the first bout. My gaze swept over the training ground, taking in the dense foliage and the abundance of leaves.
I swept the leaves away, revealing firmly packed dirt.
This environment could be an advantage. It was unconventional, but that was precisely what Lan Sheng had advised ¨C thinking outside the box. I could use the leaves for concealment, create distractions, or even...
A plan began to form in my mind, one that could turn the tables in the upcoming duel. The Silent Moon sect was expecting a straightforward fight, but I would give them something unexpected.
As the moonlight waned overhead, I worked tirelessly to bring my plans to fruition.
67. The Silent Moons Arrival
The early morning air was cool and crisp, the kind that sends a slight shiver down your spine but somehow feels refreshing at the same time. I stood among the throng of disciples, all of us lined up in a semi-formal array as we awaited the arrival of the Silent Moon sect. Leaves, in their vibrant autumn attire, danced gently to the ground, adding a serene yet somber backdrop to the gathering.
I couldn''t help but feel a knot of apprehension in my stomach, no matter how much I tried to reason with myself.
It¡¯s just another day, I kept telling myself like a mantra within my head, but the butterflies in my stomach seemed to disagree. Despite all my mental exercises and preparation, the anxiety was like a stubborn stain, refusing to be scrubbed away.
Elder Zhu, standing at the forefront, was the epitome of composure. His presence was always reassuring, like a steady rock amidst turbulent waters. As the Silent Moon disciples approached, led by their elder, Elder Jun, the atmosphere tensed, charged with an unspoken rivalry.
The meeting between Elder Zhu and Elder Jun was akin to watching two masters starting a game of Go. Their words were cordial, laced with the kind of politeness that had more layers than the most intricate pastry. Yet, beneath the surface, there was a subtle verbal spar, a battle of wits and veiled barbs.
Elder Jun''s voice was smooth, almost too smooth, as he spoke, ¡°Elder Zhu, your hospitality is as renowned as the Verdant Lotus Sect''s prowess in alchemy. We are eager to witness the fruits of such esteemed teachings.¡±
Elder Zhu replied with a polite smile, but his eyes were sharp, ¡°And we are equally eager to see the talents that the Silent Moon sect is so proud of. I trust your journey here was comfortable.¡±
The exchange was like watching a dance, each step measured and precise. Elder Jun nodded to one of the disciples, instructing them to lead the group to the dining hall for some refreshments before the main event. The air was filled with the subtle scent of jasmine tea and fresh pastries, a contrast to the undercurrents of competition.
I trailed alongside, part of the group but lost in my observations. My eyes scanned the Silent Moon disciples, trying to gauge who my opponent might be. Each one of them carried themselves with a confidence that bordered on arrogance, yet there was a disciplined sharpness to their movements. It was hard to pick who might step into the ring against me.
The feeling of apprehension lingered, much to my frustration. ¡®Why can¡¯t I shake this off?¡¯ I thought, chastising myself. ¡®I should be stronger than this, more resolute.¡¯
But knowing and feeling are two different things, and as much as I knew I was prepared, my heart refused to listen.
I watched as the leaves continued to fall, a reminder of the ever-changing and unpredictable nature of life. Just like these leaves, today could mark a change, a shift in my journey. I just hoped it would be for the better.
As we entered the dining hall, a hush fell over the crowd, slicing through my contemplation like a blade. In my lapse of attention, I suddenly found myself face-to-face with Xu Ziqing. My heart skipped a beat, not out of fear, but an intense realization of the moment. Here stood the second-class disciple from Qingmu, the one who, according to Feng Wu, had inflicted the most damage to the Wind Serpents while I had passed out.
Xu Ziqing''s presence was distinct, his demeanor like an unsheathed sword amongst the throng of disciples. My previous encounters with him flashed in my mind, a stark reminder of the chasm that once existed between us. And yet, standing here now, that chasm felt even wider. Even after all my training, nothing had changed.
"What do you want?" I asked, meeting his gaze with a defiance I didn''t fully feel but refused to let go unseen.
Xu Ziqing''s lips curled into a half-smile, a glimmer of respect flickering in his eyes. "I want to see the beast core," he said. "The prize of our sect''s wager."
I hesitated for a moment before retrieving the core from my robe. As I handed it to him, I couldn''t help but whisper, "Ironically, it seems the Silent Moon sect will get back what they lost, after all. So much for honor."
His jaw clenched at my words, but his voice was steady. "Elder Jun''s magnanimity is the only thing that stopped us from taking it by force. You should be grateful for his mercy."
Before I could reply, Elder Jun stepped in, with a sardonic smile on his crooked face. "Enough, Xu Ziqing. There''s no need to show such animosity towards a mere herbalist. It would be quite unfair to disrupt him before such an important trial." The jab was subtle but cutting, and Elder Jun''s eyes twinkled with an unspoken challenge.
As Elder Jun turned away, I caught Xu Ziqing''s gaze once more. Surprisingly, there was no malice there, only a complex web of emotions I couldn''t quite decipher. It was as if his earlier words were just a fa?ade, a performance for the sake of appearances. I shook my head. It wasn''t the time to discern his actions.
Behind me, Feng Wu''s presence was like a silent tower of strength, his aura subtly countering Xu Ziqing''s intimidation. Li Na and Han Wei stood by me, shoulder to shoulder. They glared at the Azure Moon Marauder''s back as he stepped away.
"Don''t listen to him, Kai. They''re just trying to provoke you." Han Wei said, giving me a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
After giving the core to Xu Ziqing, my mind raced with thoughts and strategies. I recounted every strategy I devised, every countermeasure, and every lesson. I gingerly touched the pouch by my hip, containing two vials ¨C the Celestial Mind Illuminating Elixir and the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn. Just knowing they were there reassured me.
I watched as Xu Ziqing gave the beast core to Elder Jun, who examined it with the discerning eye of a seasoned cultivator. The core, a symbol of our wager, gleamed ominously in the morning light. Elder Jun then handed it over to Elder Zhu with a remark that dripped with insinuation, "We trust the honorable Verdant Lotus sect will judge this contest without bias?"
Elder Zhu, ever the embodiment of calm, simply nodded, accepting the responsibility without a hint of agitation. His cool demeanor in the face of Elder Jun''s subtle provocation was something I aspired to emulate. I admired his ability to keep his composure under such thinly-veiled hostility.
As the Silent Moon disciples settled for their meal, I found myself alongside Feng Wu, away from the main gathering. He had heard about my spar with Lan Sheng and the performance-boosting potions I had concocted.
"Sticking to your strengths is important, Kai," Feng Wu said in his usual calm tone. "But knowing when to use them is crucial. I trust you understand this?"
I nodded, the weight of his words settling in. "I do, but I can''t shake off this nervousness. It''s like a shadow I can''t outrun."
Feng Wu offered a reassuring smile. "Fear isn''t inherently bad, Kai. Remember, ''A hundred refinings make pure steel.'' Each trial you face is a step towards becoming stronger, more resilient. It''s your ability to stand firm despite the fear that defines true courage."
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His words were a balm to my anxious mind. I wished Tianyi and Windy were here with me, their presence always brought a sense of peace. But I knew better than to bring them into the spotlight, especially with the Silent Moon sect around.
"Kai, remember the spar we had last week?" Li Na began, a small smile playing on her lips. "You managed to counter my Lotus Strike, something I didn''t see coming at all. Your growth isn''t just visible; it''s impactful. You''ve come a long way, and you have the skills to prove it."
Her words, direct and sincere, cut through the fog of my anxiety. Li Na wasn''t one to give empty praise; her acknowledgment of my progress was a testament to the efforts I''d put into my training.
Before I could fully soak in Li Na''s words, Han Wei chimed in, his tone light and teasing. "And let''s not forget the time you almost had me eating dirt with that sneaky move of yours," he said, rubbing the back of his neck as if remembering the moment all too well. "If you can keep me on my toes, I''m sure you''ll give the Silent Moon sect more than just a run for their money."
"Thanks, you two," I managed, feeling the knot of apprehension in my stomach loosen slightly. "I''ll make sure not to disappoint."
I glanced over at the Silent Moon disciples, trying to gauge my potential opponent. The order in which they sat was telling ¨C Elder Jun at the head of the table, flanked by Xu Ziqing and a bald, muscular senior disciple whose very presence commanded respect. Even with his back turned, I could tell all the other disciples were wary of him, aside from Xu Ziqing and Elder Jun. The hierarchy was clear, and the third-class disciples adhered to it with almost religious fervor.
It was quite different from what I was used to here in the Verdant Lotus sect. Although the disciples of each generation stuck to their respective groups, there was no strict hierarchy like this.
My gaze lingered on the third-class disciples. ''One of them will be stepping into the ring with me,'' I thought. To ease my nerves, I began to pick apart their looks and traits in my mind, a sort of mental game to psych myself up.
''That one with the scar across his cheek, he looks like he''s seen a few too many brawls. And the one with the hawk-like eyes, I bet he''s quick.'' My internal commentary brought a faint smile to my face. It was a silly exercise, but it helped to lighten the weight of the moment.
Feng Wu, noticing my gaze, leaned in slightly. "Don''t underestimate them, Kai. Each one is a formidable opponent in their own right."
As I watched the third-class disciples of the Silent Moon sect, my mind raced, assessing them, trying to gauge their strengths and weaknesses. My gaze first fell on a tall, lean disciple with sharp, focused eyes. ''A quick one, probably relies on speed,'' I thought, recalling Instructor Xia Ji''s advice on countering swift opponents. ''Rooted Banyan Stance could offset his agility, keeping me grounded and stable.''
Another disciple caught my attention, this one broader and heavily muscled, he reminded me of Wang Jun if he turned to a life of banditry. ''Strength-based fighter,'' I surmised. ''Likely to favor brute force over finesse.'' I remembered Lan Sheng''s teachings about unpredictability. ''I''ll need to be agile, strike at the right moment, and avoid direct confrontations of strength.''
My eyes then drifted to a disciple with a calm, almost serene expression. ''A strategist, perhaps? Someone who thinks two steps ahead.'' I recalled Feng Wu''s words about the importance of adaptability. ''If he''s a planner, I''ll need to be erratic, less predictable. Throw him off his game.''
I noticed another, younger than the rest, who seemed slightly nervous. ''Inexperience could be his weakness, but overconfidence in facing him could be mine.'' I thought of my potions, the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn and the Celestial Mind Illuminating Elixir. It wasn''t a shallow analysis. The potions truly were needed only if I was extremely out of my depth. The drawbacks and the relatively short duration would prove fatal if I used them too recklessly, after all. ''Maybe I won''t need them against him, but I should be prepared nonetheless.''
Each observation, each mental note, built a strategy in my mind. I felt my confidence slowly returning as I applied the lessons I had learned. ''Know your opponent, know yourself,'' I recollected Elder Zhu and Elder Ming''s teachings.
This mental exercise, categorizing and strategizing, was more than just a distraction from my nerves; it was a reaffirmation of my growth and learning. I might not be the strongest or the fastest, but I had knowledge, cunning, and the element of surprise on my side.
As the Silent Moon sect finished their meal, Elder Jun, with a commanding presence, signaled for his disciples to prepare for the duel. "Lead the way," he said, his voice resonating with an air of authority. The Silent Moon sect''s organization was indeed militaristic, each member moving with precision and discipline.
I followed the procession towards the alchemy pavilion, a place I had become all too familiar with. The memory of preparing the pavilion for their arrival flooded back.
Waking up before dawn, I took on most of the workload, feeling responsible as the catalyst for this entire situation. I couldn''t let the other disciples bear the burden of my actions. Elder Zhu respected my wishes and I worked quietly under his command to move tables around the pavilion and prepare it for the Silent Moon sect''s arrival.
To my surprise, Li Na, Han Wei, and even Feng Wu had arrived early to help set up. Their presence lightened the load and my spirits. We arranged tables and chairs in a circular manner, facing two identical alchemy stations that awaited the competitors.
As we entered the pavilion, I noticed it was already half-full. The practical arrangement of the room allowed for an unobstructed view for everyone. The alchemy pavilion members, along with Li Na, Han Wei, and Lan Sheng, were present among the audience. Their familiar faces brought a sense of encouragement.
Elder Zhu then took center stage, explaining the proceedings of the alchemy duel to the Silent Moon sect, now seated in the audience. The encirclement was a clean split of green and blue robes. "To ensure fairness," he began, "we will select the recipe for the contest from this bowl." He gestured towards a simple but elegant ceramic bowl containing scrolls of various recipes.
These were well-known formulations, standard across most sects, chosen for their widespread recognition and use in both cultivation and healing practices.
Xu Ziqing, from where he sat with the Silent Moon sect, raised an eyebrow and voiced a concern that mirrored the tension in the air. "Elder Zhu, how can we be assured that the recipe chosen will not be one tailored to the strengths of the Verdant Lotus sect, perhaps an obscure concoction unknown to us?"
Elder Zhu''s response was calm and measured, reflecting the depth of his experience. "The recipes selected for this bowl," he explained, "are recognized and utilized by any sect with a dedicated alchemy pavilion. They are foundational concoctions that any trained alchemist should be familiar with, regardless of their sect''s specific focus."
With the air of clarity restored, Elder Jun was invited to draw a scroll from the bowl. The room held its breath, the rustle of the parchment sounding unnaturally loud in the hushed anticipation. He narrowed his eyes, before opening his mouth.
"The contest will revolve around the crafting of the Soothing Spirit Pill," Elder Jun announced, unraveling the scroll to reveal the recipe.
A wave of relief washed over me as I recognized the name. The Soothing Spirit Pill, a basic yet vital concoction known for its effectiveness in aiding cultivation recovery and mending minor qi disruptions. It was a pill I had practiced with numerous times in my Pill Concoction class. Although I didn''t need to use it or make it for myself, largely due to the effects of Tianyi''s presence was superior to the pill in every way possible, it was definitely useful for the average cultivator without an awesome spirit beast companion like me.
Elder Zhu then proceeded to detail the criteria for the bout''s judgment. "The outcome of each concoction will be evaluated based on its potency, quality, and purity. These are the pillars upon which the art of alchemy stands, and they shall guide us in determining the victor of this contest."
The atmosphere in the pavilion shifted as preparations for the contest began in earnest. The tables were set with an array of alchemy ingredients, each more vibrant and potent than the last, alongside the necessary tools and a pill furnace at each station.
The seating arrangement for the audience was circular, enveloping the contest area in a ring of eager anticipation. Luxurious seats were designated for the elders, while the rest of us found places among the simpler seating that fanned out from the center.
The alchemy pavilion members, including Li Na, Han Wei, and even Lan Sheng, were all present, their faces a mix of excitement and support. The sense of community was palpable, bolstering my spirits and injecting a dose of confidence into my veins.
Elder Zhu''s voice cut through the murmurs of the crowd as he called me to step forward. I approached the center, the weight of the sect''s expectations resting on my shoulders. Then, turning to Elder Jun, Elder Zhu asked, "And who shall represent the Silent Moon sect in this contest?"
Elder Jun stood, his presence commanding the room''s attention as he spoke, "In the spirit of fairness, and not to crush a budding flower with a mountain''s weight, we shall present our fledgling disciple to partake in both the alchemy and martial bouts." He gestured gracefully, "Ping Hai, please come forward."
The name Ping Hai, which sounded gentle and almost poetic, seemed out of place in the militaristic ambiance of the Silent Moon sect. I glanced towards the disciple I had pegged as the youngest and most nervous among them, half-expecting him to be the one called upon. He, however, remained still, his gaze fixated elsewhere, oblivious to Elder Jun''s summons.
Confusion knotted my brow as I followed his line of sight, only for my eyes to widen in disbelief when the real Ping Hai began to rise from his seat. It wasn''t the nervous-looking disciple I had mistaken for Ping Hai, but rather the bald, imposing figure who had been sitting across Xu Ziqing in the dining hall.
My jaw nearly hit the floor as Ping Hai stood, his towering form casting a shadow that felt like it extended across the entire pavilion. The ground didn''t actually rumble as he walked towards me, but the sheer force of his presence made it feel as though it should. My earlier attempts at boosting my confidence quickly evaporated in the face of this unexpected development.
Ping Hai''s muscles seemed to bulge against the fabric of his robes, straining the material as if threatening to burst free at any moment. His neck was so thick it looked like it could withstand a direct hit from a battering ram, and his height... By the heavens, he was so tall he even dwarfed Wang Jun and Master Qiang from back home, and those two were giants in their own right.
Were those scars along his knuckles? Or was the fear creating hallucinations within my mind?
As Ping Hai approached, he stared me down. My mind raced, trying to reconcile the gentle name of Ping Hai with the mountain of a man striding towards me.
''This is the Silent Moon sect''s idea of grace?!''
I swallowed hard, my previous observations of the Silent Moon disciples now seeming trivial and naive in comparison to the reality standing before me.
"Greetings," he said, his voice steady and clear. "I am Ping Hai, a third-class disciple of the Silent Moon sect. It''s an honor to meet you."
As Ping Hai greeted me, his voice rumbled like a distant thunderstorm, deep and resonant. It was the kind of voice that made you wonder if he wasn''t secretly a dragon in disguise, practicing his human form. "I am Kai Liu, it is an honor..." I responded, trying not to look as startled as I felt.
With a voice like that, he could probably convince mountains to move.
And just like that, I received a notification from the Heavenly Interface, solidifying my death sentence.
68. When Giants Grasp the Delicate
I looked back and forth from Elder Jun and Ping Hai, dismissing the notification from the Heavenly Interface.
Was this some sort of sick joke?
What was that whole thing he said about not crushing a budding flower with a mountain''s weight? This was worse! Elder Jun was trying to crush the flower underfoot, and salt the earth so life wouldn''t sprout from where it grew!
Elder Zhu coughed into his fist, catching everybody''s attention once more.
His voice cut through the tension, his tone steady and commanding as he announced, "Let us begin the alchemy bout. Ping Hai of the Silent Moon Sect and Kai Liu of the Verdant Lotus Sect will have one hour to concoct the Soothing Spirit Pill. All necessary ingredients and tools have been provided at your stations."
My throat constricted as if gripped by an invisible hand, making it hard to swallow. As I walked towards my table, I couldn''t help but seek out the familiar faces of Li Na, Han Wei, and Feng Wu. Their small nods and encouraging smiles were like beacons of support in a sea of uncertainty. Although their faces showed a slight hint of concern, judging by their sidelong glances at my opponent.
Despite the reassuring glances from Li Na and the others, a shiver traced its way down my spine at the thought of Ping Hai across the arena.
Elder Zhu turned over a small, ornamental hourglass, its sands beginning to slip through the narrow passage. "The contest begins now," he declared, his voice echoing slightly in the high-ceilinged pavilion.
Taking a deep breath, I tried to channel a sense of calm, to regain the composure I knew was essential for the delicate work of alchemy. The recipe for the Soothing Spirit Pill unfurled in my mind, each step and measurement clear and precise. I meticulously checked the ingredients arrayed before me, ensuring everything was in order.
The hustle and bustle of the pavilion faded into the background as I focused on the task at hand. My hands moved with practiced ease, measuring and mixing with the precision of a seasoned alchemist. Yet, despite my concentration, curiosity got the better of me. I couldn''t help but steal a glance across the table at Ping Hai.
To my surprise, Ping Hai seemed out of his element. His large, calloused hands fumbled with the delicate alchemy tools, and his brow furrowed as he poured over the recipe. It was an odd sight, the mountain of a man struggling with tasks that required a gentler touch.
I noticed Ping Hai''s growing frustration. His attempts to measure out the correct amounts of ingredients were clumsy, and his manipulation of the alchemy tools was awkward at best. I couldn''t help but feel a twinge of sympathy for him. Alchemy, after all, was an art that demanded finesse and a delicate touch, qualities that seemed at odds with Ping Hai''s formidable physical presence.
From the stands, soft murmurs reached my ears, and I saw a few of Ping Hai''s fellow third-class disciples leaning forward, their expressions a mix of concern and encouragement. They began to gesture subtly, offering silent advice and guidance to their struggling comrade. Ping Hai glanced their way, a flicker of understanding crossing his features as he tried to adjust his technique based on their silent cues.
I found myself torn. On one hand, this felt like a breach of the bout''s integrity, yet calling it out seemed petty, especially given Ping Hai''s clear disadvantage. But I don''t think it mattered too much in the end, I was confident in my victory here.
With a mental shrug, I turned my attention back to my work, pushing aside any thoughts of the fairness of the bout. I focused on the task at hand, carefully measuring out each ingredient with practiced precision. The familiar motions of grinding, mixing, and heating were soothing, a welcome distraction from the tension of the competition.
As I worked, I couldn''t help but steal occasional glances at Ping Hai. Despite the assistance from his peers, his progress was slow, and his movements were uncertain. It was clear that alchemy was not his forte, and I wondered again why the Silent Moon Sect had chosen him for this part of the contest. Was there some deeper strategy at play, or was it simply a matter of pride, a way to demonstrate their confidence of their ability to win in the martial bout, regardless of where it takes place?
My thoughts were interrupted as I carefully added the final ingredient to the mixture. The subtle shift in color and consistency indicated that the reaction was proceeding as expected. I allowed myself a small smile of satisfaction. Despite the distractions, my concoction was coming together nicely.
With gentle, precise movements, I transferred the mixture to the pill furnace, setting the temperature and timing according to the recipe''s specifications. The final steps required patience and a steady hand, qualities I had honed over countless hours of practice. As I channeled my qi, I looked at my friends in the stands. Feng Wu smiled approvingly, while Li Na and Han Wei both pumped their fists in quiet encouragement.
My eyes couldn''t help but drift towards Xu Ziqing. He seemed almost bored with the proceedings, his eyes closed and arms crossed as if the outcome of this alchemy bout was of no consequence to him.
Turning my gaze to Elder Jun, I found his expression unreadably calm, a stark contrast to Xu Ziqing''s apparent disinterest. Despite the clear advantage I held in this alchemy bout, Elder Jun''s demeanor betrayed no sign of concern or disappointment. It was as if he had anticipated this outcome, or perhaps, the alchemy bout was merely a prelude to a larger scheme I wasn''t privy to.
My attention then shifted back to Ping Hai, who was now trying to mix the ingredients together with a spoon that looked comically small in his massive hand. The sight was almost amusing, and for a brief moment, my anxiety about the upcoming sparring match dissipated, replaced by a flicker of amusement at the incongruous image before me.
However, my momentary distraction proved costly. My concentration faltered, and the cycle of my qi within the pill furnace became erratic, disrupting the delicate balance needed to coax the ingredients into forming the Soothing Spirit Pill. Cursing under my breath, I hastily corrected the flow, stabilizing the furnace''s internal environment.
''Focus, Kai,'' I chided myself, ''You can''t afford such lapses, especially not now.''
With the pill furnace once again under control, I carefully extracted the powdery substance, noting the slight imperfections caused by my earlier distraction. Frustration bubbled within me at the realization that my momentary lapse could have cost me dearly. I took a deep breath, channeling my frustration into focus, and began shaping the powder into pills with meticulous care, ensuring each one was as close to perfect as possible under the circumstances.
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As I worked, my mind couldn''t help but wander back to the upcoming sparring duel. How could I possibly stand a chance against Ping Hai, a behemoth of a man who seemed more suited to the battlefield than the alchemy pavilion? The thought was daunting, and for a moment, doubt crept into my heart.
As the final pill settled onto the tray with a soft clink, my clenched fists relaxed ever so slightly at the sound. Drawing a deep breath, I straightened, feeling the tendrils of resolve weaving through the remnants of my doubt. The familiar scent of the alchemy lab, a blend of herbs and the faint trace of fire, filled my lungs, grounding me in the moment and the skills I''d honed over countless hours.
I had faced challenges before, each one seemingly insurmountable at the time, yet here I stood. ''This is just another challenge,'' I reminded myself, ''And like the others, I will find a way to overcome it.''
Glancing over at Ping Hai, I saw that he was still struggling with the recipe, his progress slow and uncertain. Despite the assistance from his fellow disciples, it was clear that alchemy was not his strength. No matter how a turtle may twist it''s body, it can''t imitate the brilliance of a peacock. His strengths lie in a different area.
It made me wonder again about the Silent Moon sect''s strategy. Did they not care about the outcome of the alchemy bout, focusing all their attention on the martial contest instead?
With nothing left to do but wait, I stepped back from my table, watching as Ping Hai continued his painstaking work. The Silent Moon sect''s disciples and Elder Jun remained unfazed, their expressions giving nothing away. It was a curious situation, one that left more questions than answers.
As the hourglass dwindled away, I knew that Ping Hai was under an immense amount of pressure to complete his pills.
The sands in the hourglass dwindled, showing the fleeting time that Ping Hai had to finish his concoction. I watched, almost in a trance, as he awkwardly maneuvered around the pill furnace, his massive hands seeming out of place in the delicate world of alchemy. His mixture, now ready, was of noticeably poorer quality compared to mine, lacking the refined consistency essential for the perfect Soothing Spirit Pill.
As Ping Hai reached into the furnace to retrieve the powdery substance, I couldn''t help but lean in slightly, curious to see how he would tackle the next step. Shaping the powder into pills required a technique that balanced finesse with precision, a skill that seemed at odds with Ping Hai''s brute physique.
I watched as he scooped a portion of the powder, his hand dwarfing the spoon, and then, with a motion that seemed too crude for the task at hand, he clenched his fist tight.
Eh?
The muscles in his forearm bulged, veins popping out like cords under his skin, as he subjected the powder to a pressure I could scarcely imagine.
I stood, mouth agape, as he opened his hand to reveal the result. There, sitting in the center of his palm, was a pill. It was misshapen, far from the perfect sphere expected of a Soothing Spirit Pill, yet its solidity was undeniable. It fell to his tray with a clunk that resonated through the silent pavilion, a solid testament to its density.
A shiver ran down my spine as the implications of Ping Hai''s raw strength became painfully clear. The ease with which he had compacted the powder into a solid form was terrifying. If his grip could do that to alchemy ingredients, what would it do to flesh and bone? My flesh and bone!
My gaze flickered between the misshapen pill and Ping Hai''s impassive face. The casual display of strength was a stark reminder of the physical disparity between us. As he continued, unfazed, to crush the remaining powder into more crude pills, a part of me couldn''t help but marvel at the sheer physicality he brought to the delicate art of alchemy.
Different people had different approaches, truly.
The crowd murmured, a mix of astonishment and disbelief at the unconventional method Ping Hai employed. I could see Elder Jun from the corner of my eye, his expression unchanged, as if this brute-force approach to alchemy was exactly what he had expected from Ping Hai.
I forced myself to look away, to focus on my own set of perfectly shaped pills, trying to anchor myself to the task at hand. Yet, the sight of Ping Hai''s makeshift alchemy haunted me, a prelude to the daunting physical contest that lay ahead.
"Time''s up!"
As Ping Hai finished his last pill, the room fell into a tense silence, all eyes on the two sets of pills that lay before us. The contrast couldn''t have been starker - mine, shaped with precision, and Ping Hai''s, forged by sheer force.
Elder Zhu stepped forward to inspect our work, his experienced eyes assessing the quality of our pills. The tension in the room was palpable, the outcome of this bout seemingly clear, yet overshadowed by the impending martial contest.
Elder Zhu''s examination began with my set of Soothing Spirit Pills, his keen gaze scrutinizing every detail. The moment felt stretched, each second ticking by with unbearable slowness as he picked up one of my pills between his thumb and forefinger.
"Let''s review the parameters of this contest," Elder Zhu started, his voice carrying across the silent pavilion. "Potency, quality, and consistency are key." He pressed the pill lightly, and to my dismay, it crumbled slightly under the pressure, revealing some uneven clumping within.
"While the potency of this pill is intact, the inconsistency in its composition could slightly affect its efficacy," Elder Zhu commented, his critique pinpointing the very mistake that had slipped through my focused efforts. A flush of embarrassment warmed my cheeks as I mentally kicked myself for the lapse in attention that had led to this minor flaw.
The room''s attention then shifted to Ping Hai''s work, the anticipation palpable. Elder Zhu''s expression remained neutral as he examined the rough-hewn pills, the result of Ping Hai''s unconventional method. The quality, as expected, was far from ideal, the pills lacking the refined texture and uniformity typical of a well-crafted Soothing Spirit Pill.
Elder Zhu''s attempt to crumble one of Ping Hai''s pills was telling; he had to exert a noticeable amount of force to break it apart, showcasing its dense packing¡ªa direct result of Ping Hai''s brute strength. Ping Hai, towering and formidable, seemed to shrink slightly under the weight of Elder Zhu''s unimpressed scrutiny, his head bowing in a rare display of shame.
With the examination concluded, Elder Zhu faced the audience, his voice clear and authoritative. "In this alchemy bout, while both contestants showed commendable effort, the victory goes to Kai Liu for a closer adherence to the criteria set forth." He then added, "As the victor, Kai Liu will have the privilege of deciding the location for the upcoming martial bout. Are there any objections?"
All eyes turned to Elder Jun, whose calm demeanor hadn''t wavered. He merely nodded, an almost imperceptible smile playing on his lips, as if the unfolding events were aligning perfectly with some unseen plan.
Applause and cheers broke out among the disciples of the Verdant Lotus Sect, their support a balm to my frazzled nerves. Among the Silent Moon Sect''s third-class disciples, expressions of disbelief and disappointment were starkly evident. Yet, amidst the celebration, a low mutter from Ping Hai reached my ears.
"Honor lost... must be reclaimed, no matter the cost. The next match... will be my redemption." His forehead veins were pronounced despite him facing away from me, and some of the Silent Moon sect disciples flinched as he walked in their general direction. I looked up into the pavilion''s ceiling, and a lone tear shed down my cheek.
Was this the will of the heavens? To snuff out the rising star of Kai Liu with the wrath of Ping Hai?
The words, intended or not for my ears, sent a fresh wave of terror through me. The raw power I had witnessed, now paired with Ping Hai''s vow of redemption, painted a daunting picture of what awaited me in the sparring ring.
My mind raced with wild thoughts, desperate for any escape from the impending confrontation.
''Could I feign illness, perhaps a sudden bout of Qi Deviation?'' I mused, half-serious, imagining every possible scenario that could delay or circumvent the match. Maybe if I collapsed and vomited blood right now, they''d postpone the match. The Silent Moon sect wasn''t cruel enough to throw an injured herbalist into a match against that mountain of a man?
Yet, as the laughter and chatter around me continued, the reality of the situation settled in. There was no running from this challenge, no matter how outmatched I felt. With a deep, steadying breath, I squared my shoulders, mentally bracing myself for what was to come, all the while hoping for a miracle or perhaps a very convenient case of Qi Deviation.
"Kai, as the victor of the bout, where would you like the sparring match to take place?"
Elder Zhu''s question about the location for the duel echoed in my mind, demanding a response. The training grounds of the Verdant Lotus Sect, the very place where I had spent countless hours honing my skills and pushing my limits, came to the forefront of my thoughts. It was not just a familiar setting; it was a terrain I had analyzed meticulously, especially last night, planning for any possible advantage it might offer against a formidable opponent like Ping Hai.
Straightening my posture, I met Elder Zhu''s expectant gaze. "I would like the martial bout to take place in the training grounds of the Verdant Lotus Sect," I declared, my voice carrying a hint of the resolve I was desperately trying to muster. The training grounds, with its familiar layout and the strategic placement of various obstacles, could provide the edge I needed to level the playing field against Ping Hai.
Glancing toward the Silent Moon sect, I noticed the third-class disciples exchanging glances. Several of them looked at me with a mix of disdain and arrogance.
Xu Ziqing and Elder Jun, however, remained composed, their faces betraying none of the anxiety that gripped me. Their confidence was unsettling; as if the choice of location was of little consequence to the outcome they anticipated. It was a stark reminder of the confidence they placed in Ping Hai''s martial abilities, a confidence that I couldn''t help but envy.
But now, it was time to reap what I sowed.
69. Three Steps to Clash
The path to the training grounds felt longer than usual, each step heavy with the weight of the impending duel. The chatter and laughter of the Verdant Lotus sect disciples, enthused by my victory, did little to lighten the mood. The vibrant hues of the Verdant Lotus Sect''s gardens, usually a sight to behold, blurred into a muddled backdrop as my mind raced with thoughts of facing the behemoth known as Ping Hai.
"Why so glum, Kai? You look like a cow being led to the slaughterhouse," Han Wei teased, nudging me with an elbow that felt more like a jab to my already fraying nerves. His face was alight with a blend of concern and mischief, a combination that only someone like Han Wei could pull off.
I shot him a wry look, attempting to muster some semblance of wit under the circumstances. "Oh, I don''t know, Han Wei. How would you feel if you were in my shoes, matched up against a walking fortress?"
Before Han Wei could retort, Lan Sheng, with his ever-present mischievous smirk, chimed in. "It''s not entirely impossible to beat him, you know," he said, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. Lan Sheng always had a way of finding humor in the direst situations, his lighthearted demeanor a stark contrast to the gravity of the moment.
I looked at Lan Sheng with some hope. Although Ping Hai was a monster in my eyes, to the second-class disciples, surely they could see some way to defeat him. Right?
Feng Wu, steadfast and serene as ever, walked beside us, his calm presence a grounding force amidst the rising storm of my anxiety. "Indeed, every opponent has weaknesses," Feng Wu added, his voice a steady timbre that usually brought a sense of reassurance. Today, however, even his words seemed to echo with the shadow of doubt.
"Sure, he''s got the build of a small mountain, but mountains move slowly, right?" Lan Sheng continued, his tone aiming for casual but landing squarely in the ''not helping'' territory. "And yeah, he might have the strength to uproot trees, but who needs to uproot trees in a duel? It''s all about speed and wit!"
Feng Wu was the embodiment of calm in the storm of Lan Sheng''s ''encouragement.'' His serene demeanor a stark contrast to the escalating panic Lan Sheng''s words were sowing in my mind.
"And endurance...I mean, I''ve heard the whispers from the other Silent Moon disciples. Apparently, he can go on for hours fighting without breaking a sweat, but a duel is short, right? No need for endurance when you''re sprinting!" Lan Sheng''s voice carried a cheerful note, blissfully unaware of the images of an unstoppable, tireless juggernaut he was painting in my head.
Just as I was about to be swallowed whole by the horrifying picture Lan Sheng was so cheerfully sketching, Feng Wu stepped in, his patience evidently worn thin. "Lan Sheng, perhaps that''s enough ''reassurance'' for now," he interjected, his voice carrying an uncharacteristic edge that immediately silenced Lan Sheng.
Li Na stepped in, her presence like a breath of fresh air. With a light punch to my shoulder, enough to snap me out of my stupor but gentle in its intent, she offered a grin that was both encouraging and conspiratorial.
"Come on, Kai. You''ve got something Ping Hai will never have," she said, her voice laced with confidence. Her brown eyes were full of conviction that was hard to ignore.
"And what''s that?" I asked, genuinely curious, clinging to any sliver of hope.
Li Na''s smile broadened, her eyes gleaming with a mix of confidence and a hint of playful challenge. "Us. He might be a mountain, but even mountains can''t stand alone against a storm. And we''ll be the gale-force winds at your back."
Her words, simple yet profound, eased away at my fears. The realization that I wasn''t going into this battle alone¡ªthat I had friends who believed in me, ready to support me in any way they could¡ªignited a spark of courage within me.
Buoyed by Li Na''s words, I couldn''t help but let out a soft chuckle, the tension in my shoulders easing ever so slightly. "So, you''ll all be in the match with me, fending off Ping Hai?" I asked.
Li Na and Han Wei exchanged a quick, uneasy glance, suddenly finding the path beneath our feet fascinating. The silence that followed, punctuated by their lack of eye contact, spoke volumes, but it did little to dampen the lightness Li Na''s words had brought to my heart.
"Ah, I see how it is," I said with a feigned sigh, the corners of my mouth twitching upwards. "Well, I appreciate the thought anyway."
The air around us seemed lighter, the path to the training grounds less daunting than before. "Thank you, really," I added, my voice laced with genuine gratitude. "I''ll do my best not to die. That''s a promise."
My hand unconsciously drifted to the pouch at my hip, fingers curling around the vials hidden within. The Celestial Mind Illuminating Elixir and the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn felt like lifelines, their presence a reminder of the edge they could provide in the upcoming battle. "I guess it''s a good thing I''ve got these then," I murmured, more to myself than to anyone else.
Lan Sheng piped up again, his tone light but his words carrying an undercurrent of sincerity. "Just remember, Kai, it''s not the size of the cultivator in the fight, but the size of the fight in the cultivator. And you''ve got plenty of fight in you."
Feng Wu, walking silently beside us, offered a nod of agreement, his steady gaze reinforcing Lan Sheng''s sentiment. It was a small gesture, but coming from Feng Wu, it carried a weight of assurance.
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As the training grounds came into view, a mixture of apprehension and determination settled within me. The laughter and banter of my friends, the weight of the potions in my pouch, and the challenge that lay ahead coalesced into a singular focus. I was ready, or as ready as one could be when facing the wall known as Ping Hai.
"Let''s do this," I said, more to myself than to anyone else, as we stepped onto the familiar grounds that had borne witness to countless hours of my training.
As I took in the sight of the training grounds, meticulously swept and prepared by my own hands just the night before, a strange sense of calm began to settle over me. The dirt, solidly packed beneath my feet, offered a familiar resistance, a reminder of the countless hours spent honing my skills here.
The leaves, which I had painstakingly cleared away, still found their way back onto the grounds. But what my eyes caught were the leaves congregating in small, natural-looking clusters. I noted their locations and committed them to memory. These patches of leaves, seemingly inconsequential to the eyes of the bystanders, would provide the advantage I needed against a foe like Ping Hai.
The gathered disciples from our sect formed a semi-circle around the designated area, their faces a mix of excitement and apprehension. Among them, Instructor Xia Ji stood out, her sharp gaze piercing through the crowd to land on me. Though we hadn''t exchanged words, her firm nod conveyed a wealth of support and expectation, bolstering my resolve. Her training and instruction have been invaluable to the progress I made.
Across from me, Ping Hai stood like a statue, his focus and determination palpable even from a distance. His eyes, locked onto mine, held a fierce motivation that was both intimidating and awe-inspiring. In this moment, the jokes and light-hearted banter of my friends seemed like a distant memory. The reality of the challenge before me was crystal clear.
Elder Zhu''s voice cut through the tense air as he outlined the terms of our bout. "Kai Liu needs only to land a single hit on Ping Hai to claim victory, while Ping Hai must either force Kai into surrender or achieve a knockout," he announced, his tone devoid of bias.
Elder Jun''s voice interjected, adding a layer of complexity to the already daunting task. "A mere touch won''t suffice," he stated, his gaze sharp. "The blow must be solid, decisive. We trust Elder Zhu''s judgment to concur with ours on what constitutes a ''solid'' hit."
Ping Hai''s formidable physique, designed to absorb and shrug off attacks with ease, suddenly seemed like an impenetrable fortress, leaving me with a dwindling list of viable targets. A glancing blow wouldn''t do anything to that palace of muscle. I''d need to land a solid strike against him.
But hey, we can have lucky breaks every once in a while. I''d just hope today it''d happen.
Inside, my mind raced, frantically devising and discarding plans. The vagueness of what constituted a ''solid'' blow played tricks on my thoughts, each more elaborate and desperate than the last. My gaze flickered to the patches of leaves, their innocent rustle now carrying the weight of potential strategies.
The air was thick with anticipation as the crowd quieted, every eye fixed on the center of the training grounds where my battle would unfold. My hand clenched around the vials in my pouch, their presence a tangible reminder of the edge they might provide, yet also a symbol of the dire straits I found myself in.
Focus, Kai. Treat Ping Hai like a tough alchemy problem, albeit one that could snap my bones if I''m not careful. Every strong ingredient, like Ping Hai, has its counter. It''s about using knowledge precisely and finding that balance. Lan Sheng was right, it''s all about the right mix: agility, wit, and careful timing.
In this moment, stripped of all pretense and humor, I stood facing not just Ping Hai, but the embodiment of my limits and fears. The path forward was fraught with uncertainty, but retreat was not an option. With a deep, steadying breath, I centered myself, ready to face whatever came next with the full might of my spirit and the cunning of my mind.
"Begin," Elder Zhu''s voice resonated, marking the start of the duel.
As Ping Hai stood still, his towering frame a solid mass of muscle and quiet power, he gestured me forward with a slight nod, his deep voice carrying across the training grounds, "I will give you three moves. Make them count." The underlying tone was clear ¨C he saw me as no threat, a mere formality before his inevitable victory.
This patronizing allowance stung, igniting a flicker of defiance within me. ''Three moves,'' I thought, ''then let''s make them memorable.''
I reached into my pouch, fingers wrapping around the vials containing the Celestial Mind Illuminating Elixir and the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn. Without hesitation, I downed them both, the familiar rush of energy and heightened awareness flooding my senses almost instantly. The world around me seemed sharper, every detail magnified, and Ping Hai''s imposing stance appeared less like an invincible fortress and more like a puzzle to be solved.
Ping Hai adopted a stance that screamed offense; the Twelve Form Harvest Moon technique. His legs were planted firmly, and his arms raised in a position that promised a devastating counter should I come within his reach. The sight was designed to intimidate, to make one reconsider the folly of engagement. But retreat was not an option; not now, not ever.
I took a deep breath, my mind racing through scenarios, discarding one strategy after another as impractical or too risky. ''Two moves to create an opening, one to strike,'' I reminded myself, the clarity provided by the potions allowing me to focus despite the pounding of my heart. I''d need to conserve my techniques till the very last moment. I couldn''t afford to use them so recklessly.
With the potions'' power surging through my veins, I felt every muscle primed, every sense sharpened. I darted forward, my feet barely touching the ground, aiming to use the full extent of my newfound speed. My first move was a straight punch at his head. A firm parry with his forearm stopped it with ease, sending a throbbing sensation throughout my arm.
A swift kick aimed at Ping Hai''s solar plexus was a feint. I anticipated his dodge, his towering frame moving with surprising agility.
Spinning on my heel, I transitioned into a roundhouse kick, targeting the same area but from a different angle. My leg cut through the air, but Ping Hai was no novice; he leaned back, evading my strike with minimal effort, his brows furrowing as he prepared to launch his counter.
With only a few seconds left before his retaliation, desperation and clarity coalesced within me, guiding my actions. I feigned a stumble from the momentum of my failed kick, an act designed to draw him in, to make him commit to his counter.
"That''s three," He intoned. His eyes didn''t miss the opening I intentionally left. "Blame yourself for provoking the Silent Moon sect."
Ping Hai took the bait, moving in with a speed that belied his size, his fist arcing toward me with the force of a battering ram. It was now or never. In a split-second decision, I dropped lower, my body reacting almost on instinct, and threw a punch filled with qi aimed not at Ping Hai but at the space he would occupy should he continue his trajectory.
The move was a gamble, a high-stakes bet on my ability to predict his actions and his commitment to the counterattack. As Ping Hai realized the trap, his eyes widened in surprise, the first genuine emotion I had seen from him. He had a choice ¨C continue the strike and expose himself to a direct hit or fall back and lose his momentum. In a regular fight, he could''ve taken the blow with ease and hit me with a counter. But with the match''s restriction in place, it allowed me an opportunity.
Ping Hai''s eyes widened in surprise as he realized the trap, but his momentum was too great to halt. In a display of agility and flexibility that contradicted his size, he contorted his body in a bid to avoid my strike, his movements awkward yet effective. The air between us crackled with tension as his counterattack, a straight punch driven by the full weight of his formidable frame, barreled toward me.
The blow was inevitable; even with the potions enhancing my speed and his graceless dodge weakening the power behind the blow, Ping Hai''s strike reached my body. I managed to twist myself, turning what would have been a full-on hit into a glancing blow. Yet, even this reduced impact sent me tumbling backward, the ground rushing up to meet me as I desperately tried to regain my footing.
From where I was laying, I could see Elder Jun with narrowed, calculating eyes. My heart pounded in my chest, not just from the exertion but from the realization of what I had just achieved. I had forced Ping Hai, the Silent Moon''s mountain, to retreat.
At that moment, the fear and trepidation that had clouded my mind cleared, replaced by a sharp focus. I knew the odds were still against me, that Ping Hai''s next move would be calculated and brutal, but for the first time since the match was announced, I felt a glimmer of hope. The potions coursing through my veins, the support of my friends, and the plan unfolding as I had hoped, all converged into a singular thought - ''I can do this.''
70. When Leaves Fall, The Shadow Rises
Elder Jun''s voice cut through the commotion, his icy tone coating his words. "Is this the showing a Silent Moon sect''s representative should be proud of?" he called out to Ping Hai, the statement seemed to pierce the air with its significance, a warning from the elder to his disciple.
Ping Hai''s reaction was subtle, yet telling. A brief flicker of uncertainty crossed his otherwise stoic expression, a momentary lapse that revealed a sliver of doubt. It was fleeting, gone almost as soon as it appeared, but it was enough to remind me that beneath the imposing exterior lay a cultivator not unlike myself, susceptible to the same cautions and concerns.
However, as quickly as the moment of vulnerability appeared, it vanished, replaced by a renewed focus that was almost palpable. Ping Hai''s eyes, now fixed on me with great intensity, seemed to burn with a determination that bordered on ferocity. It was clear that Elder Jun''s words had served their purpose, steeling Ping Hai''s resolve for the battle ahead.
With my senses heightened to their limit, I braced myself for Ping Hai''s response, knowing that the brief advantage I had gained would only serve to make him more cautious, more deliberate in his approach. Yet, even with this knowledge, the sheer speed of his retaliation caught me off guard.
Ping Hai''s movement was a blur, a testament to the deceptive agility hidden within his massive frame. The heavens were truly unfair, allowing a man of his stature to move like a mouse. The straight punch he delivered towards my stomach was a force of nature, swift and unyielding. Despite my heightened awareness, I could only roll off to the side, feeling a gust of wind pass by where I was a split-second ago.
The impact of Ping Hai''s missed strike sent a shiver down my spine, the realization of the power behind it chilling me to the core. As I scrambled to my feet, the world around me seemed to slow, the effects of the potions allowing me to perceive each minute detail with crystal clarity. The crowd''s anxious murmurs, the rustle of leaves underfoot, Ping Hai''s measured breaths¡ªall of it painted a vivid picture of the moment.
Ping Hai, unfazed by his missed attack, adjusted his stance, a subtle shift that warned me of an impending strike.
My entire body was sweating. It hadn''t even been a minute yet, but the mental fatigue of knowing one wrong move could spell my doom wore away at me and frayed my nerves.
He delivered his strikes in a simple manner, but because of that, it was hard to counter. Hard to use the Bamboo Reprisal Counter.
But it was getting easier. Maybe because of the elixir, but it felt like I was adjusting to his speed. I glanced over to my right, seeing one of the leaf deposits I committed to memory earlier. If I could just-
WHOOSH
A right hook, faster than anything he''d displayed so far, brushed past my cheek, splitting my skin and drawing blood. If I hadn''t turned my head in time, it would''ve been over. I stumbled backwards, trying to blink the stars out of my eyes and the ringing in my ears.
I''d been a fool.
He was lulling me into a false sense of security, making me adjust to a slower speed than what he was capable of until now.
Was this truly someone the same age as Li Na or Han Wei? I didn''t feel this sense of suppression even when I fought against Lan Sheng or Feng Wu. I looked over to Ping Hai once again, only found a cold and determined gaze. His other fist hurtling towards me at an alarming speed. I watched as time slowed to a crawl.
I had to duck. I had to duck! If I took this hit, I''d die!
A scream tore out my throat, as every muscle in my body worked to throw myself further into the strike. Ping Hai''s fist whiffed my head, and I could feel the barest touch on my hair as I stumbled forward past his guard. I tucked and rolled gracelessly across the grounds.
Before I could regain my bearings, a shadow loomed over me. Ping Hai, his massive frame silhouetted against the sky blotting out the sun, his leg raised high for an axe kick. The fourth stance of the Twelve Form Harvest Moon. I knew well enough what awaited me if I stayed here.
As Ping Hai''s shadow loomed over me, his leg raised like a guillotine''s blade against the backdrop of a clear sky, a cold shiver ran down my spine. Time seemed to stretch, each second a lifetime, as I lay sprawled beneath him, the hard ground pressing against my back. His towering figure, a monolith of impending doom, blocked out the sun, casting me into a chilling darkness that mirrored my growing despair.
Rooted Banyan Stance? Not in this position. All I could do in this situation was...
I raised my hands above my head in a cross and pushed myself forward before the kick could fully be unleashed. As I coalesced qi into my arms, Ping Hai seemed unperturbed, delivering the blow even faster than I anticipated. The impact was monumental, the force of his kick driving my arms down with such ferocity that I felt as if they might shatter under the pressure. It fell onto my head like the weight of a thousand stones. No matter how much I''d trained up till this point, facing the blow head-on meant there was an inevitable cost to pay.
But by paying that cost...I opened up the path for survival.
I twisted my core and angled my arms to divert the force into the ground beside me. The first principle of the Bamboo Reprisal Counter; redirecting the flow of an opponent''s power, and minimizing the damage to oneself. The words came to be unbidden, cutting through the noise of battle.
Observe the lotus upon the water; it moves with the current, yet remains unblemished. So too must you flow with the force of your opponent, redirecting their energy while maintaining your core unshaken.
Ping Hai''s leg came crashing down beside me, leaving a stark imprint of his power etched into the dirt. But it came at a price. every fiber of my being screamed in protest. Pain radiated from my arms, so intense it bordered on numbness. I clenched my teeth, refusing to give voice to the agony. The odds, ever daunting, now seemed insurmountable.
Yet, within me, a stubborn flame of defiance refused to be extinguished.
The crowd, a distant blur beyond the immediate reality of my duel, gasped in unison at the spectacle. Whispers and murmurs swirled like leaves caught in a tempest, their words indistinguishable but their tone laden with a mixture of awe and concern. I could hear Li Na''s anxious voice behind me, but even that fell deaf to my ears.
My body felt hot. The constant pounding of my heartbeat overwhelmed everything except the man in front of me. A whisper cut through the stimulus.
The path of a leaf adrift on a stream does not resist the current, yet it finds its way.
Ping Hai, momentarily off-balance from the redirected force of his own attack, regained his composure swiftly. But deep in his eyes, I could see frustration building up. His teeth were clenched, and veins were protruding from his head. His eyes flickered off to the side, back to where the Silent Moon sect sat, distracted.
Emulate this gentleness in your technique, allowing the opponent''s force to become the guide to their own defeat.
In the midst of battle, a strange peace settled over me. The noise of the fight turned into a clear rhythm, guiding my responses. Ping Hai''s every move became a signal, showing me where to strike or dodge. In this focused calm, my movements were no longer just reactions; they were answers.
The battle''s chaos became a dance, and in this dance, I found my moment.
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The bamboo, resilient and yielding, bending in the fiercest winds only to rise again, unbroken. And now, I could feel those words forming a bridge between my mind and body.
I dashed forward, considering the nearby surroundings without losing focus on Ping Hai''s frame. I watched his weight shift and the slightest tensing of his muscles. I needed to think faster. FASTER!
Only after this point, this moment of clarity, did I realize that Ping Hai truly wasn''t as monstrous as I made him out to be. He may have been incredibly strong, and deceptively agile, but he wasn''t as fast or dexterous as Li Na or Feng Wu. And they were people who I sparred with daily. My fear had been clouding my judgment and my reaction, all this time.
But now, I could fight back.
A strike at the body, followed by a kick to the head.
I parried his punch, committing fully to the redirection of its power. It was the only way to defend. My forearms were creaking under the immense weight, but I shifted my body to avoid the incoming kick. Ping Hai stopped his move and readjusted, only taking a second to do so. But that was enough for me.
Seizing the opportunity, I feigned a lunge, drawing Ping Hai''s attention¡ªand his guard¡ªto his left. As he adjusted his stance to counter, I pivoted, channeling my qi to my right leg, and unleashed a sweeping kick aimed not at Ping Hai but at the cluster of leaves just between us.
The kick sent a flurry of leaves into the air, further compounding the visual chaos of battle. Ping Hai, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected maneuver, faltered in his response, his eyes darting between the airborne leaves in a futile attempt to discern my true location. Now was my chance!
But before I could launch another attack, I saw his hands pierce through the leafy veil, coming together and unleashing a gust of wind that blew away my cover.
"Heeup!"
The gust of wind Ping Hai generated cleared the air, leaving me exposed and momentarily disoriented by the thunderous clap.
As he blew away the leaves in a whirlwind of force and charged forward, unwilling to give me a chance to recover, his forward momentum betrayed him. The ground beneath him, seemingly solid, concealed my last-ditch effort¡ªa small hole hidden beneath the cluster of leaves I had kicked upward in a feint of desperation. The trap I had placed last night. Placed strategically and subtly in areas throughout the training grounds, this wasn''t a matter of luck; this opportunity was solely due to preparation.
Ping Hai''s foot found the void unexpectedly, his massive frame lurching forward with a suddenness that defied his earlier poise. The surprise in his eyes was a mirror to my own; his for the unforeseen falter, mine for the sliver of opportunity it presented.
Seizing the moment, I surged forward, my body coiled like a spring, my fist aimed upwards in an uppercut meant to capitalize on the third-class disciple''s compromised stance. The move, fueled by a mix of adrenaline and the last vestiges of hope, was a gamble against the odds.
But Ping Hai, even in his moment of imbalance, was a force to be reckoned with. His hand, large enough to encase my fist entirely, snapped out with the speed of a striking viper, catching my uppercut in a vice-like grip that halted my momentum cold. The sheer strength in his grasp was a stark reminder of what he did in the alchemy bout, a power that now threatened to snuff out the advantage I had.
"Grrgh!"
The high of my epiphany that I had been riding on for the longest time was broken by the pain in my hand.
"This farce is over," Ping Hai growled, his voice a rumble that seemed to resonate with the very earth beneath us. His other hand reared back, poised to deliver a finishing blow that I knew I could not hope to withstand with the principles of the Bamboo Reprisal Counter alone.
In that moment, suspended between defiance and defeat, the training grounds around us faded into a blur. The cheers and gasps of the spectators and the gentle rustle of the remaining leaves in the breeze¡ªall of it receded into the background, leaving only the impending certainty of Ping Hai''s strike.
Yet, even as despair threatened to take hold, a flicker of resolve ignited within me. The countless hours of training, the lessons learned, the challenges faced¡ªall of it culminated in this singular moment of truth.
I shifted my stance at the last possible instant, dropping my center of gravity and anchoring myself into the earth with the Rooted Banyan Stance. My body, a conduit for the pure, swirling qi, became as steadfast as the ancient trees that inspired the technique, ready to withstand the blow.
Ping Hai''s approaching fist met not the expected compliance of a defeated foe but the unyielding force of my prepared stance. The collision sent a shockwave through my body and into the ground, a testament to the might behind the blow. Because of my fist stuck in Ping Hai''s grip, I couldn''t fully complete the technique, weakening the defense and letting a partial amount of damage permeate throughout my chest. I coughed out blood, feeling the sheer solidity of his strike.
But I was still standing.
The bewildered look that flashed across Ping Hai''s face was as satisfying as it was fleeting.
I relinquished my stance, transforming rigidity into fluid motion. Seizing Ping Hai''s outstretched arm¡ªthe very instrument of his intended victory¡ªI leaned back, my body bending like the bamboo that bends but does not break, guided by Instructor Xia Ji''s teachings of the Bamboo Reprisal Counter.
The second principle of the Bamboo Reprisal Counter. To redirect the force of an opponent''s blow, and to use that diverted power back to the opponent.
With a burst of qi channeled through my core and into my legs, I unleashed a counterstrike, a front kick aimed at Ping Hai''s chin. The force of my kick, amplified by the momentum of my fall and the power of my qi, was my final gamble.
In that split-second before the collision, I saw it. Ping Hai''s attempt to retreat.
It was thwarted by the very trap he had stumbled into moments before. His foot, ensnared in the divot concealed by the leaves, became his undoing.
My front kick connected, the impact reverberating through the air, a testament to the culmination of my journey, the synthesis of countless lessons learned under the tutelage of my mentors and the hardships I had endured.
And I let go of his arm and fell to the floor.
I could hear the crowd gasping all around me. All I could focus on was the third-class disciple I had put my life on the line to win against. His neck was craned upwards, and I could see how stiff his body had gone. For a moment, I thought I knocked him out.
His posture staggered, and for a second it looked like he was about to fall onto one knee.
The silence that followed was deafening, a stark contrast to the cacophony of the duel''s crescendo.
But his towering form stayed strong, and he brought his head back down as if the strike hadn''t even fazed him. In his eyes were a clear sense of shock, fear and disarray. But he wasn''t looking at me, he was looking at someone far into the crowd. I trailed his gaze and saw the frigid expression on Elder Jun, and the stupefied expression of Xu Ziqing beside him.
I heard Elder Zhu''s voice as my back lay flat on the ground, carrying with it a tinge of disbelief and amazement.
"The bout is decided," Elder Zhu declared, his voice carrying the weight of finality. "Kai Liu is the victor."
A cheer erupted from the ranks of the Verdant Lotus Sect, a tidal wave of relief and jubilation that swept through the crowd. My friends¡ªLi Na, Han Wei, Lan Sheng, and Feng Wu¡ªwere the first to reach me, their faces alight with pride and excitement.
"You did it, Kai!" Li Na exclaimed, her voice trembling with a mixture of disbelief and exhilaration, as she knelt beside me, her hands hovering over me, as though she were unsure of where to touch.
Lan Sheng''s laughter rang out, infectious and carefree. "What did I tell you? Size isn''t everything!"
Feng Wu, his usual calm demeanor replaced with a rare smile of genuine pride, offered his hand, helping me to my feet. "Well done, Kai. Your resolve and ingenuity have truly shone through today."
As I leaned on my friends for support, my body aching in places I didn''t even know could hurt, I couldn''t help but let out a pained chuckle. "Victor, huh? Feels more like I''ve been trampled by a herd of oxen."
Their concern was palpable, their eyes scanning my injuries, but the elation of the moment seemed to overshadow the pain. "You need to get looked at by the healers," Li Na insisted, her brows furrowed in worry.
As we made our way slowly towards the sect''s infirmary, the crowd parted for us, their whispers and cheers a swirling mix that filled the air.
"He actually did it..."
"Kai beat a disciple of the Silent Moon sect..."
"Is that guy really a third-class disciple?"
Amidst the physical pain, my mind was awash with a cascade of reflections. Despite my victory, it rung hollow.
It all seemed like a perfect storm, a confluence of factors that led to an outcome I could hardly believe myself. The moment of clarity that enveloped me during the duel, cutting through the fog of fear and doubt, felt almost otherworldly. It was as if I had transcended my limitations, tapping into a well of focus I didn''t know I possessed. It was just like the moment I reached enlightenment with the Rooted Banyan Stance, or the Crimson Lotus Purification technique.
Their underestimation of me, due to my status as a herbalist, played to my advantage. It allowed me to leverage the element of surprise, to catch them off-guard with tactics they hadn''t anticipated from someone of my supposed standing, as well as the potency of my concoctions.
The hole I had dug the night prior, a precaution born out of a strategic consideration for the terrain, turned out to be instrumental. It was a physical manifestation of my foresight, a trap that Ping Hai, in all his might, couldn''t have predicted.
The synergy between the Rooted Banyan Stance and the Bamboo Reprisal Counter, two techniques I had honed over countless hours of practice, was pivotal. The principles of hard and soft defense, put together into devastating effect. Their combination allowed me to absorb and redirect the force of his attack, culminating in a counterstrike that was as precise as it was desperate.
And yet, the kick that I had delivered with every ounce of strength and qi I could muster barely seemed to stun Ping Hai. Maybe it wasn''t his strength I should admire, but rather the endurance such a body gave him.
As I watched the third-class disciple in question, his attention wholly consumed by Elder Jun, kowtowing in a display of utter subjugation, a pang of empathy coursed through me. He was not focused on me, the victor of our duel, but rather on the weight of his perceived failure in the eyes of his mentor and sect.
Hadn''t I seen a glimpse of their culture with the slightest of interactions? I saw not just a formidable opponent, but a fellow cultivator caught in the relentless pursuit of strength and approval within the rigid hierarchy of the Silent Moon sect. He would likely be facing repercussions for this defeat.
"Guys, could you help me walk over to him?"
Lan Sheng looked at me, surprised. "You truly want to kick him while he''s down, eh? Don''t worry Kai, since this is outside of the match, I can interfere if he tries to-"
Feng Wu drove his elbow into Lan Sheng. The second-class disciple let out a strained noise of pain and immediately went quiet.
"Of course, Kai. Just be mindful, it is best not to provoke them further."
"...Brother Feng Wu, that really hurt, you know."
Lan Sheng''s words fell on deaf ears. As I limped closer to Ping Hai, he caught my gaze and turned to face me. Behind him were several other Silent Moon sect disciples. They all looked at me with a myriad of expressions; disdain, anger, and suspicion. But there was a different look in their eye than before. Was it...caution?
Nevertheless, I took my arms away from Li Na and Han Wei''s supporting shoulders and walked closer.
From here, Ping Hai didn''t seem so large. I clasped my hands together into a shallow bow.
"Thank you for the spar, this junior has learned well."
Ping Hai seemed to hesitate, before clasping his hands together and dipping his head. "...I have learned well."
A formality. One I learned to occur between official matches between cultivators.
This duel was my declaration to the world of cultivators¡ªmy arrival on a stage I had only dared to dream of.
April Fools Chapter: Butterfly Path
A hushed silence fell over the training grounds in the immediate aftermath of my victory. The lingering scents of dust and churned earth mingled with the adrenaline fading from my veins, leaving me lightheaded and unsteady. My muscles hummed with a mix of exhaustion and the sweet ache of triumph, each breath a testament to the battle I had just endured.
As I bowed in respect to Ping Hai, relief washed over me, tempered by a sobering understanding that this was more than just a duel. My win was, for better or worse, a challenge to the Silent Moon sect¡ªtheir pride, their methods.
The weight of Elder Jun''s frigid gaze lingered as I straightened, my eyes seeking out those of my sect leaders. Elder Zhu''s face, though taut, held a flicker of approval, a subtle counterpoint to the storm brewing in Elder Jun''s eyes.
"Kai Liu," Elder Jun''s voice, deceptively calm, cut through the tense silence. "Approach."
The command held an edge that hinted at something far more ominous than congratulations. My feet, as if of their own volition, carried me forward until I stood before the elders, my battered form exposed under the unwavering scrutiny of the Silent Moon leader.
"Your victory," Elder Jun began, his voice dripping with disdain, "is as meaningless as it is undeserved. Trickery, deceit¡ªthese are the pillars of your sect."
His words, a damning indictment, hung heavy in the air. Around us, the disciples of both sects stirred, whispers rippling through their ranks as they sensed an ugly turn of events.
A flicker of anger ignited within me, but my voice remained steady, "Elder Jun, the terms of the duel were clear. I bested your disciple in fair combat."''
"Fair?" Elder Jun scoffed, his eyes burning with barely contained fury. "You dishonored this challenge, used underhanded tactics to claim a victory you could never achieve through true skill!"
His accusations echoed the earlier whispers of the Silent Moon disciples, confirming my darkest fears. They were determined to twist the outcome, to salvage their pride at my expense, at the expense of the entire sect. Li Na''s cry of protest was drowned out by the growing clamor from the Silent Moon side.
Then, as if a switch had flipped, A surge of power exploded from Elder Jun, the force of it so mighty that it blasted a sandal clean off his confounded foot. The very air crackled with energy and the faint scent of aged leather. Disciples stumbled back, momentarily distracted by the sheer indignity of it all.
"For this insult, for this dishonor," Elder Jun seethed, his eyes blazing with terrifying intensity, "the Verdant Lotus Sect shall pay the price in full. Your pathetic lives, your pitiful sect...all of it will be extinguished by my hand!"
His proclamation hung in the air like a death knell, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This was no disagreement, no mere challenge to the results. This was a declaration of war, a monstrous threat against the Verdant Lotus sect, the place I called home for these past few months.
The Silent Moon disciples, emboldened by their elder''s words, surged forward, their eyes alight with a mix of anticipation and bloodlust. In a heartbeat, the duel I had fought tooth and nail to win was forgotten, swept away by the promise of destruction.
"Defend the sect!" Elder Zhu''s voice boomed, a rallying cry against the encroaching chaos. The Verdant Lotus disciples, though outnumbered, drew their weapons, their fear and confusion coalescing into a desperate determination.
Chaos erupted.
And within the maelstrom, I saw it ¨C the flicker of movement by the sect gates, a sudden swarm of Silent Moon disciples breaking through, their faces alight with a predatory gleam. They weren''t just here for revenge; this was always their plan. Their intent, from the very beginning, was to claim the beast core, and they would sacrifice everything and everyone to achieve their goal.
Terror flooded my veins, icy tendrils reaching into every corner of my body. Elder Jun''s declaration wasn''t a mere threat; it was a promise, and the weight of it threatened to crush me. My victory, the culmination of weeks of grueling training, felt like a cruel joke in the face of impending annihilation.
Guilt gnawed at me. I had brought this upon them, upon Li Na, Han Wei, Lan Sheng, Feng Wu ¨C all my friends who stood resolute against impossible odds. The faces of the younger disciples, wide with fear, mirrored my own terror.
The carefully maintained training grounds were no longer a place of peaceful practice, but a canvas splashed with the violent hues of war. Screams ripped through the air, the clang of steel meeting steel a grim counterpoint. The verdant haven I called a second home was morphing into a hellscape, and I felt a surge of protectiveness rise within me, a desperate need to shield them, to somehow mitigate the carnage I had unleashed.
A blur of movement ¨C Xu Ziqing, his face contorted with rage, his blade aimed straight for my heart. I lunged to the side, the whistling steel passing a hair''s breadth from my face, the metallic tang of fear thick on my tongue.
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But the reprieve was short-lived. Strong arms encircled me from behind, a crushing grip that stole my breath. Xu Ziqing''s triumphant snarl filled my ears as the world spun.
This was it. This was how it ended.
A whimper escaped my lips, a pathetic sound in the face of my impending demise.
A blinding flash of azure light erupted before my eyes. The world seemed to slow, the sounds of battle fading into a distant hum. Xu Ziqing''s grip slackened, replaced by a bewildered gasp.
My head snapped up, disbelief battling with a sliver of hope.
Tianyi.
My azure butterfly companion, usually no bigger than my palm, hovered between me and Xu Ziqing, her wings a magnificent canvas of cerulean light. Gone was her usual delicate form; in its place, a creature of awe-inspiring power.
The gentle butterfly I knew was no more. In her place stood a radiant warrior, the very embodiment of the Azure Moonlight Flutter. With an effortless flick of her wing, she deflected Xu Ziqing''s blade, the clang echoing through the battlefield like a thunderclap.
The telepathic connection between us crackled with Tianyi''s voice, laced with a deep sorrow I had never felt from her before.
"Forgive me, Kai," she resonated, the sound both beautiful and profound. "I had to protect you. But for so long, I...I couldn''t reveal myself. Not until now."
Xu Ziqing stumbled back, his eyes wide with a mix of terror and awe. The battlefield fell silent for a heartbeat, the clash of steel momentarily forgotten as all eyes turned to the spectacle before them. Tianyi, with a final, blinding flash of azure light, sent Xu Ziqing flying backwards, his body crashing against the training grounds wall with a sickening thud.
Tianyi ¨C my delicate butterfly friend ¨C was now a glowing apparition, her gentle beauty replaced by the power of a vengeful goddess. But as Elder Jun spoke, his words dripping with disdain, a wave of relief washed over me. He didn''t know. He couldn''t comprehend Tianyi''s true nature.
"A mere insect... kowtow and I will spare your insignificant life," he taunted.
It seemed that in his zeal, Elder Jun forgot that butterflies couldn''t physically kowtow.
And then she moved, a blur of shimmering blue against the backdrop of Elder Jun''s looming form. The elder raised his hand, the same hand that promised the sect''s annihilation moments ago, now charged with sickly black energy. He intended to squash her as one would a troublesome fly.
"Thousand Lantern Vortex!"
My senses screamed as the world seemed to vanish in a blinding flash. The stench of ozone replaced the gentler scents of the training grounds as I stumbled backwards, momentarily blinded. When my eyes adjusted, what greeted me was a sight my mind struggled to process.
Elder Jun, his earlier arrogance replaced by a mask of sheer shock, staggered back, his raised hand pushed away from Tianyi in a defensive posture. My gentle butterfly, alight with an energy that burned through my retinas, held her ground against the sect elder. A crackling sphere of brilliant blue light and sickening black energy separated them, a volatile barrier between mortal and something otherworldly.
The shockwave sent disciples tumbling, the clash of powers drowning out any other noise. The verdant grounds were a sea of dazed faces ¨C Verdant Lotus disciples clinging to a flicker of hope, Silent Moon disciples with growing fear in their eyes.
"You...you dare?! COURTING DEATH!" Elder Jun roared, his skin crackling, turning into something akin to shattered glass and revealing a demonic figure beneath his guise.
All eyes were on them, the epicenter of a battle that defied every rule I thought I knew. It was the struggle of a supposed demonic immortal against a tiny, winged creature, and yet, Tianyi held her own.
And through it all, her telepathic voice boomed within my mind, vibrating with a resolve I''d never heard from her. "He will pay for threatening you, Kai."
My heart ached. Who was she, really?
My friend, a protector, a butterfly...but also so much more.
Tianyi moved with the devastating beauty of a storm, her wings weaving patterns of azure light that seemed to cut into Elder Jun''s defenses. He snarled, his martial intent flaring in response, a desperate attempt to regain the upper hand. The sickening black energy he channeled roiled around him, twisting the very air with an unnatural darkness.
Their struggle raged on, a symphony of raw power that made everyone else seem frozen in place. Tianyi, a beacon of shimmering blue, danced around the elder''s attacks. I could hear the slightest whisper as she weaved around the deadly attacks with grace and poise.
"Petal-Scattering Zephyr," She said.
Her movements, fluid yet devastating, were something a human could never replicate. She embodied freedom in a way I could barely comprehend, an extension of her very being.
Each clash of their powers sent tremors through the ground, cracks spreading like spiderwebs across the once-pristine training area. Then, with a final, blinding surge of energy, Tianyi shattered Elder Jun''s defenses. His eyes went wide as she struck, her wings a radiant blade cutting through the black miasma surrounding him.
Each notification was like a hammer blow, driving home the magnitude of the change. My mind was breaking free from shackles I hadn''t even known existed.
"Severing Moonlight Crescent Beam."
A trembling started in my fingers, a ripple that grew into a tremor wracking my entire body. My knees threatened to give out. Essence...the foundation of true cultivation, the power that moved mountains and parted rivers...it was within me?
My eyes snapped open, wider than I thought possible. The world was aflame with color and alive with whispers carried on the breeze. I glanced down at my hands, flexing them experimentally. They looked the same, felt the same, and yet, everything was different.
A choked cry escaped Elder Jun''s lips as he was hurled backward, tumbling across the ground like a broken doll.
Silence descended upon us, a heavy blanket smothering the din of battle. Elder Jun struggled to his feet, his once impeccably groomed robes torn and his face contorted in a mix of pain and disbelief. And in that moment, something shattered within me.
My dao, the Blossoming Path... the philosophy I had clung to, the foundation of my cultivation... it was a lie. A well-meaning imitation, a path built on my own limited understanding. True strength, true power ¨C it lay with Tianyi. It was her essence, the embodiment of the Azure Moonlight Flutter, a power born from some ancient source I didn''t even dare to contemplate.
With chilling certainty, I knew my path diverged from all I knew. It was the path of the butterfly, the path of unassuming beauty that could move mountains. A surge of clarity coursed through me, washing away the fears and doubts that had haunted me. The limitations I''d imposed upon myself seemed laughable now.
"From this moment forth," I declared, my voice echoing across the stunned battlefield, "The Blossoming Path... is no more." My eyes met Tianyi''s, and an unspoken understanding passed between us.
Tianyi hovered above my head, her azure wings shimmering in the sunlight. A new chapter was beginning, and I embraced it without hesitation.
Though uncertain of what trials lay ahead, I stood resolute, no longer just a young cultivator, but a disciple of the Butterfly Path.
71. Eclipsing the Ego
Ignoring the throbbing pain that seemed to echo with each heartbeat, I pushed past Ping Hai, my steps deliberate as I approached where Elder Jun, Elder Zhu, and Xu Ziqing stood. The air felt heavier here, charged with an unspoken tension that made my already labored breathing seem all the more difficult.
I looked over at Xu Ziqing. He regained his calm demeanor before the spar, but his posture was shaken. It felt good, to know that I broke free of the expectations they put on me.
Elder Jun''s gaze was like a shard of ice, piercing and unwavering, as it fixed upon me. The Heavenly Interface flickered into existence once again, its warning clear.
But the warning was unnecessary; the memories of my past recklessness, the consequences that almost befell the sect and myself, were fresh in my mind. I steadied my voice, cooling the fiery undertone of defiance that had almost become second nature. I recalled the discussions with the Verdant Lotus elders, their warnings echoing in my mind.
They had been clear; my pursuit of righteousness, however well-intentioned, risked not only my safety but that the entire sect and the innocents of Gentle Wind Village.
"Elder Zhu, may I?" My voice was steady, but inside, a storm of conflict raged. The beast core, a symbol of victory and power, lay within Elder Zhu''s grasp. Yet, as I reached out, a pang of reluctance seized me.
This core represented more than just a prize; it was a testament to the trials I had faced and overcome. It symbolized my growth, my commitment to standing up for what I believed was just. After all, we had earned it together; Feng Wu and I. In the heat of battle against the Wind Serpents, side by side with Xu Ziqing and the Silent Moon sect.
Yet, when they returned, laying claim to what we had jointly secured, it struck a chord of injustice within me. My resistance, born from a sense of righteousness, was reckless. In my fervor to defend what I perceived as fair, I had failed to gauge the depth of the ripples my actions would reach.
Turning to Elder Jun, I mustered all the humility I had learned from the harsh lessons of life. "Elder Jun, I thank you for this opportunity. The duel, while a challenge, was a valuable lesson in the depth of cultivation. It has shown me the prowess of the Silent Moon sect and the undeniable strength of Ping Hai."
Elder Jun''s eyes narrowed, his voice slicing through the air with a cold precision that made me inwardly flinch. "Spare us your platitudes. In the Jianghu, a loser is a loser. There''s no need to dress it with pretty words."
His words stung, a harsh reminder of the brutal reality of the path I had chosen. Yet, within me, something stirred¡ªa realization that true strength lay not just in power but in the wisdom to wield it wisely.
"Elder Jun, my victory today does not make me superior to Ping Hai or diminish the Silent Moon sect''s standing. It was the support of the Verdant Lotus sect and the lessons I''ve learned that carried me through," I responded, my gaze drifting to where Li Na, Han Wei, and the others stood. Their expressions were a mix of pride and concern.
The air felt thick as I bowed respectfully to Elder Jun, an act of submission that went against every fiber of the pride in my being. "I apologize for any disrespect my actions may have caused. It was never my intention to sow discord between your sects."
I said something similar during my first encounter with them. But here it was more genuine. I hoped it would permeate my words.
But if it didn''t...
I carefully took the beast core from Elder Zhu, giving him a quiet word of thanks as I stood a little straighter to face Elder Jun. The energy coming off him was palpable, coiling around me as though trying to choke the air from my very lungs.
With a heavy heart, I held out the beast core to Elder Zhu, my reluctance a bitter taste in my mouth. "This core... If it can ensure peace and harmony between the Verdant Lotus and Silent Moon sects, it is worth more than any prize."
Gasps of shock rippled through the crowd, the weight of my offer hanging heavily in the air. Elder Jun''s expression was inscrutable, his eyes boring into mine as he weighed my words.
Elder Zhu''s eyes met mine, a storm of emotions swirling in their depths. "Kai, reconsider. This core is your right, won through courage and skill. To relinquish it so easily..."
His words hung in the air, heavy with the unsaid implications of my decision. The beast core, pulsating with energy in his outstretched hand, seemed to beckon, a siren call to the potential it promised.
"Elder Zhu speaks wisely, Kai," Feng Wu said, his voice as calm as the still surface of a lake, yet carrying an undercurrent of solemnity. "Consider the path ahead, and the challenges it may hold. A beast core, especially of one this size would be a great benefit to your cultivation."
Their words pierced the fog of resolve I had wrapped around myself, planting seeds of doubt where none had existed. I glanced between the two men, the pillars of wisdom and strength that helped me grow and learn in such a short span of time. I felt the weight of their concern.
Yet, as I gazed at the beast core, its luminescent glow reflecting in their expectant eyes, a different kind of resolve settled within me.
"No, Elder Zhu. If my actions have created enmity between the Verdant Lotus and the Silent Moon, then it is my duty to amend them. This core, as precious as it is, holds no value against peace."
If the beast core would ensure my village''s safety from retaliation, then this was a small price to pay. Sure, it could further my cultivation, but would it be enough to grant me the power to protect the people of the Gentle Wind village from the Silent Moon sect if they chose revenge against me? Even if the Verdant Lotus sect stepped in, that only meant my friends, Li Na, Han Wei, Feng Wu, would suffer casualties.
To Sect Leader Ye Shaotian, Elder Jun must''ve seemed like a frog in a well. But to me, he felt more like a dragon lurking in shallow waters. His presence, though not towering, cast a long shadow, one that could easily envelop those around him in darkness. A person who wouldn''t hesitate to bring others down with him to the depths if provoked.
And as much as I despised it, I wasn''t the dragon-slaying cultivator I had imagined myself to be.
At least, not yet.
Holding the beast core out to Elder Jun, I could feel the weight of every gaze upon us, thickening the air with anticipation. The core, pulsing with a faint glow in my palm, felt like the only source of light in a rapidly darkening world. I knew the man standing before me was a master at concealing his thoughts, his face a mask that revealed nothing of the storm that might be raging beneath.
Yet, as I extended the core towards him, I saw it¡ªa flicker, a slight twist of his features, so fleeting I almost doubted my own eyes. Elder Jun, the unshakable, had shown a crack in his armor.
Offering the beast core, I wasn''t just relinquishing a token of power; I was laying down a gauntlet. Would he take the core, reneging on the terms of our wager, and in doing so, admit to a weakness I was certain a man of his stature would never concede? Or would he let it go, acknowledging the gesture for what it was¡ªa plea for peace, for the sake of those who had no part in our conflict?
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The silence that stretched between us was deafening. I knew that whatever I was thinking, he had likely considered already. I didn''t do this with the hope of winning more, but to secure the peace and safety of my sect, my friends, and the innocents of Gentle Wind Village. This was my gambit, my calculated risk to preserve harmony between the Verdant Lotus and the Silent Moon.
I could feel the eyes of my sect, my friends, and even the Silent Moon disciples bore into us, their breaths held in anticipation of Elder Jun''s response. The weight of the core in my hand felt magnified, a symbol of so much more than the power it contained. It was a test, a question posed to Elder Jun''s principles, and by extension, to the honor of the Silent Moon sect itself.
"Do you take us for beggars, boy? The Silent Moon sect does not renege on its wagers," Elder Jun retorted, his voice laced with disdain and bitterness. "We accept our loss. This matter is closed."
As Elder Jun signaled his disciples to prepare for departure, I stayed in place, slowly lowering my hand and letting out a sigh of relief. It was over.
I glanced over at Elder Zhu. It seemed he understood my intentions with my gambit. In the subtle nod he offered, I found an unspoken acknowledgment of the weight of my decision. It was as if, in that brief exchange, he conveyed a silent message of gratitude mixed with a hint of regret for the burden I had shouldered alone.
As Elder Jun turned his back, signaling the end of the standoff, the atmosphere around us began to shift. Ping Hai looked at Elder Jun in dismay, turning back to look at me. He seemed unsure, almost like he wanted to say something, before clenching his fist and following the older man''s lead.
The tension that had hung over us like a heavy cloak started to dissipate, replaced by a cautious sense of relief that rippled through the gathered crowd. Murmurs and whispers filled the air, breaking the silence that had gripped the training grounds moments before.
My friends, who had stood by me in silent solidarity, now approached with steps that carried a mixture of awe and concern. Li Na''s eyes were bright with unshed tears, a testament to the emotional rollercoaster we had all endured. Han Wei clapped me on the back, a large grin on his face. Feng Wu simply offered a small, knowing smile, one that spoke volumes of the respect he held for the path I had chosen.
As the Silent Moon sect began their solemn procession away from the Verdant Lotus grounds, I couldn''t help but feel a weight lift from my shoulders¡ªa weight I hadn''t fully realized I''d been carrying.
"Ha...I''m exhausted," I murmured, letting my posture sag as I leaned heavily on Han Wei. "But everything turned out better than I imagined."
A shadow loomed over me, and before I could turn my head, I heard Feng Wu''s voice speak up.
"Is there something you need, Xu Ziqing?"
I looked up to see the Azure Moon Marauder. Dressed in his cobalt-colored robe, and a dagger-like glint in his eyes, I wondered if he was related to Elder Jun in some way.
"Kai Liu," Xu Ziqing addressed me, his voice devoid of warmth, echoing the detachment of his allegiance. "Your gesture today, offering the beast core back to Elder Jun was...unexpected." His words, carefully chosen, carried an undercurrent of critique rather than praise.
"It was a decision for peace, for the sake of both the sects and those beyond them."
Although I wouldn''t tell him that I did it knowing there was a good chance they''d turn down the offer. It''s the thought that counts, right?
The man kept his gaze on me, tapping the hilt of his blade lightly. I still felt caution, knowing that among the disciples brought out here today, he was the strongest among them. Even Ping Hai would succumb to the powerful slashes I''d seen that gouged out walls in the battle of Qingmu.
Xu Ziqing''s lips twitched into a semblance of a smile, but it lacked any genuine amusement. "Always playing the hero, aren''t you? But remember, in the grand scheme of the Jianghu, it''s the sect''s glory that prevails. Individual sacrifices are but footnotes in our sects'' legacies."
Where was he going with this? Was it disdain? Mockery? His acknowledgment of my actions, wrapped in the guise of criticism, left me wondering what he was up to.
"Perhaps," I conceded, keeping my tone even, "but I believe it''s these ''footnotes'' that truly define the character of a sect. Not just its victories, but its choices when faced with conflict."
The second-class disciple snorted, but narrowed his eyes. "Noble ideals, but idealism doesn''t always hold sway in the face of reality. The Jianghu is unforgiving, and the Silent Moon does not forget its debts or its enemies."
Before I could respond, Li Na stepped forward, her tone polite yet firm. "Senior, your point is made. Perhaps it''s best you rejoin your sect now. We''ve all had a long day."
Feng Wu, silent until now, added with a calm authority that brooked no argument, "It''s time to part ways. Let''s not sour the peace that''s been hard-won today."
Xu Ziqing''s gaze lingered on me for a moment longer, the ghost of a challenge flickering in his eyes, before he gave a curt nod and turned to leave, his silhouette soon melding among the Silent Moon sect disciples.
"We should celebrate tonight, Kai! The dining hall won''t know what hit it!" Han Wei exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious.
I managed a weak smile, feeling the weight of the day''s events pressing down on me. "I''d like that, but maybe later. I need some time to... process everything."
Li Na nodded, understanding flashing in her eyes. "Take all the time you need. We''ll be there when you''re ready."
One by one, my friends dispersed, each lost in their own thoughts, leaving me to the silence that I so desperately craved. The training grounds, now empty, felt vast and echoing.
It was in this silence that I noticed Instructor Xia Ji approaching, her stride purposeful yet measured. Her gaze fell upon a particular spot on the ground.
"Kai, what happened here?" she inquired, her tone light but carrying an undercurrent of curiosity.
I followed her gaze, my eyes landing on the divot I had created as part of my preparation for the duel. A slight flush crept up my cheeks as I remembered Lan Sheng''s advice to use my surroundings to my advantage. "It was a... precaution, Instructor. A trap, if you will, inspired by Lan Sheng''s words. I dug it last night."
"A trap?" she echoed.
I nodded sheepishly. "Yes, I thought it might give me an edge against Ping Hai. I apologize for the dishonorable tactic."
Instructor Xia Ji surveyed the divot, then looked at me with a glint in her eye that I couldn''t quite decipher. "And are there more of these ''precautions'' around?"
"Um, a few," I admitted, my embarrassment deepening.
Her lips twitched, barely containing a smile. "I see. Well, you''ll have to repair them before tomorrow afternoon, Kai. We can''t have the other disciples falling to the same trick and getting injured, can we?"
"I believe it''d be a nice lesson in vigilance and preparedness, hehe..."
Instructor Xia Ji''s stern glare locked me in place. She didn''t reply, merely pursing her lips and narrowing her eyes.
"I understand, Instructor. I apologize for the inconvenience," I said. "I''ll get it fixed up before your classes. I promise."
With the matter of the divots settled, Instructor Xia Ji''s expression turned more contemplative. "What''s next for you, Kai? After all this excitement, I imagine you have plans."
I paused, the question stirring the whirlpool of thoughts that had been swirling in my mind. "I want to continue my training, Instructor. And there''s the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet coming up. I need to prepare, especially now that I have...less time."
Instructor Xia Ji nodded, her gaze assessing. "You''re always welcome at the training sessions, Kai, though I won''t be able to offer personalized instruction anymore. You''ve outgrown that, in many ways."
I felt a pang at her words, a mix of pride and nostalgia for the days when every lesson felt like a new world opening up before me. "I understand, Instructor. And I''m grateful for all the guidance you''ve given me."
She offered a nod. "Then it''s settled. Prepare for the Gauntlet, Kai. It''s a rare opportunity, and I believe you have the potential to make a significant impact, judging by your results here against the Silent Moon."
Just then, the Heavenly Interface flickered into existence, drawing my gaze with its familiar glow. Amidst the day''s turmoil, I had almost forgotten about my quest.
Huh?
Just under my status menu, I could see another line of text.
What is this?
Like an all-knowing being, the Heavenly Interface responded to my query.
I glanced at the text in shock. This reward was incomprehensibly powerful. If I were to use it on something like the Rooted Banyan Stance, once I reached the tenth level, I''d be able to evolve it to the next stage without the prerequisites, wouldn''t it?
And what about the Crimson Lotus Purification technique? It didn''t have any evolution requirements like my other skills, wouldn''t that mean I could theoretically upgrade the technique into something even better?
"Ha...haha! The heavens are truly generous! HAHAH-" I lurched over in pain, clutching my chest. "Oh, laughing too hard is hurting my ribs."
Despite the discomfort, I couldn''t hide my excitement. I''d have to think deeply on what I wanted to upgrade with this. More importantly, I''d have to wait. There was no point upgrading anything right now, when none of my skills had reached the limit. I''d have to weight out the pros and cons.
If I wanted to use it on a skill before the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet, I''d need to work harder than ever! There was no telling how long it''d take to reach the maximum level for each of my skills at this rate.
Left alone in the expanse of the training grounds, the reality of the day''s trials began to truly sink in. The adrenaline that had fueled me through the confrontation with Ping Hai, through the strategic give-and-take with Elder Jun, began to ebb, leaving behind a profound sense of weariness.
I let out a long sigh, allowing the quiet of the early evening to envelop me. The setting sun painted the sky in shades of orange and purple, a beautiful backdrop to my tumultuous thoughts. I lay back on the ground, wincing slightly as the aches from the day''s exertions made themselves known. I suppose this was a sign I should look further into my healing hydrosol if I wanted to be up and about sooner, along with a trip to the sect''s infirmary...
As I gazed up at the fading light, my mind wandered to the task at hand¡ªthe divots I had strategically placed around the training grounds.
Great, Kai. Brilliant plan you had there. Now, how in the world are you supposed to patch up these holes when you can barely sit up straight?
"Maybe I can convince Han Wei and the others to help..."
The thought of bribing them with alcohol popped up, but I dismissed it as soon as it came. If Feng Wu were to find out...I shivered at the thought. Even Tianyi would try to fight me if she knew I was about to offer her wine to other people.
With a final glance at the darkening sky, I pushed myself to my feet, my resolve solidifying with each painful step. The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet awaited, and with it, the opportunity to prove my mettle, to forge my path in the world of cultivators.
And as for the divots? Well, that''s a problem for tomorrow''s Kai. For now, the promise of rest, and perhaps a celebratory feast, beckoned, offering a brief respite from the rigors of the path I had chosen.
72. Waning Crescent
The Silent Moon sect''s return from the Verdant Lotus was marked by contemplation and veiled tension. Their silent march through Crescent Bay City''s evening bustle drew curious glances from civilians, sparking whispered speculation.
Civilians, absorbed in their evening routines, paused to observe the procession of dark blue and black robes. Their whispers, filled with curiosity and awe, wove a tapestry of speculation around the solemn group.
"Isn''t that the Silent Moon sect?" one onlooker murmured, tracking their steady advance.
"Yes, they''ve come from the direction of the Verdant Lotus sect," another replied, their voice low, tinged with intrigue. "What business might they have had there?"
As the sect members passed, leaving whispered conjectures in their wake, the vibrant atmosphere of the city stood in stark contrast to the solemnity that enveloped them. Within the ranks, discreet glances were cast towards Ping Hai, the youngest among the third-class disciples, his once formidable presence now seemingly diminished. His bald head and broad shoulders, once a symbol among the third-grade disciples, now seemed more vulnerable than ever.
The looks directed at Ping Hai were mixed¡ªsome carried pity, others disdain, and a few held a calculating reassessment of his abilities. The outcome of the bout had shifted perceptions, planting seeds of doubt and speculation.
Yet, Xu Ziqing, leading the formation, remained aloof from these undercurrents. His concerns lay not with Ping Hai''s loss but with the broader implications. It wasn''t just about Ping Hai''s defeat; it was Kai Liu''s unexpected prowess that challenged their understanding of cultivation.
The second-class disciple found it hard to reconcile the herbalist he had seen in Qingmu with the fledgling cultivator who managed to land a blow against their most talented third-class disciple. Even with his already established vigilance towards the boy, it was simply impossible to predict that level of growth within a month''s time.
''Fools,'' Xu Ziqing thought, scanning the procession of third-class disciples. Many of them seemed to be revising their assessment of Ping Hai. The tension between them was palpable. ''They would''ve fared the same, if not worse than Ping Hai in that battle.''
Approaching the sect''s gates, Xu Ziqing''s contemplation deepened. He observed a growing disconnect among the disciples, a worrying sign of eroding unity that threatened the sect''s foundational principles.
In the silence of their march, Xu Ziqing''s thoughts drifted to the younger third-class disciples he had unofficially mentored. During their skirmishes with the Wind Serpents in Qingmu, he had honed their collective strengths, orchestrating them into formidable formations that played to each disciple''s prowess. Back then, a sense of camaraderie had animated their ranks, their shared victories a testament to their unity and mutual respect. But now, as he watched these disciples whom he hadn''t worked closely with, that camaraderie was nowhere to be found.
Whispers of division, subtle yet palpable, hinted at factions forming within the third-class disciples¡ªa phenomenon Xu Ziqing found both unexpected and disturbing. Among the second-class disciples, such explicit schisms were rare, their competitive spirit never undermining the broader allegiance to the sect.
The lack of camaraderie among them was stark, their interactions marked by a competitive coldness that went beyond healthy rivalry. The sect''s teachings had always placed strength and might at the pinnacle of virtues, but the essential fabric of unity seemed to be eroding in its wake. The disdain, barely concealed, that they harbored for Ping Hai in his moment of defeat was a symptom of a deeper malaise.
The man reflected on the silent whispers and the calculating glances exchanged among the third-class disciples. Their quickness to judge and distance themselves from failure was a concerning trend. The sect, in its pursuit of individual prowess, seemed to be neglecting the cultivation of bonds that should bind the disciples together, not just as competitors but as members of a singular entity.
True strength lay in unity, in the shared resolve to rise after a fall, and in the collective spirit that could weather defeats and celebrate victories as one. This divisive undercurrent, if left unchecked, threatened to undermine the sect''s ethos.
He tapped the hilt of his sword, tucked away safely in its sheath. The very thought of the sect''s youngest talents splintering into factions worried him.
As they crossed the threshold into the sect''s grounds, the Xu Ziqing resolved to bring this observation to the attention of the elders. The seniors needed to address this erosion of camaraderie during training, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among the disciples. It was something he would need to address as well.
It was his duty, as their Senior Brother.
The imposing gates of the Silent Moon sect closed behind them with a resounding thud, sealing off the outside world and its murmured whispers. Inside these walls, the atmosphere was charged with a different kind of energy¡ªa mix of anticipation and the unyielding weight of tradition.
Xu Ziqing, his thoughts a labyrinth of contemplation and strategy, cast a sidelong glance at Ping Hai. The young disciple walked with a subdued air, the defeat evidently weighing heavily on his young shoulders. Yet, beneath the surface, Xu Ziqing saw the unquenchable fire that burned within Ping Hai. At merely fifteen, he had already carved a formidable position for himself within the sect, his talent undeniable and his potential boundless.
The bearded second-class disciple knew the sect was not just a crucible for cultivating martial prowess but also a forge for character and resilience. Ping Hai''s loss, though a setback, was but a ripple in the vast ocean of his journey. The defeat would either temper him into steel or shatter him.
''Knowing him, it will likely be the latter.'' Xu Ziqing mused.
The procession halted at the central pavilion, where Elder Jun awaited, his presence as commanding as the towering peaks that surrounded the sect. The elder''s eyes, sharp and discerning, swept over the returning disciples, pausing briefly on Xu Ziqing and Ping Hai.
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"Dismissed," Elder Jun''s voice cut through the silence, clear and authoritative. The assembled disciples bowed and began to disperse, a murmur of relief and fatigue washing over them as they retreated to their quarters.
"Xu Ziqing, Ping Hai, stay," Elder Jun commanded before they could follow suit. His tone was not harsh, but it brooked no argument.
The other disciples cast curious glances their way, the air thick with unspoken questions and conjectures. Xu Ziqing and Ping Hai exchanged a brief look before stepping forward.
Elder Jun turned, leading them away from the pavilion and towards his quarters. The path was familiar, yet each step seemed to echo with the gravity of the moment. The elder''s quarters, nestled in the heart of the sect, were a place few disciples had the privilege to enter. It was a space where the weight of the sect''s history and the burden of its future coalesced.
As they entered, the door closing silently behind them, the outside world seemed to fall away. The room was sparsely furnished, the simplicity a stark contrast to the complexity of the matters that were discussed within its walls.
Elder Jun took a seat, gesturing for Xu Ziqing and Ping Hai to do the same. The air was heavy with expectation, the silence a canvas for the words yet to be spoken.
"Today''s events," Elder Jun began, his voice measured, "have implications far beyond the loss of a mere beast core. They speak to the very heart of what we stand for as a sect."
Xu Ziqing listened intently, his mind racing to anticipate the elder''s thoughts. Ping Hai sat rigid, his gaze fixed on the floor, the weight of his defeat a tangible presence in the room.
"Strength, unity, resilience¡ªthese are the pillars upon which the Silent Moon sect stands. Yet, today, we have seen that even the strongest pillars can crack under pressure," Elder Jun continued, his gaze piercing.
Elder Jun''s attention shifted, focusing intently on Ping Hai. "Ping Hai, your determination is clear, but I must ask¡ªwhat fuels it? Is it merely personal ambition, or something more profound?"
Ping Hai''s eyes flickered with a hint of surprise, unprepared for the personal nature of the question. He hesitated, then spoke with a sincerity that belied his usual reserve. "My strength is not for myself alone, Elder. It''s for those who stand behind me, for my village that looks up to the Silent Moon for hope." he said, his voice steady but revealing the depth of his commitment.
Elder Jun nodded, a knowing look in his eyes. "Your village... I am aware that you''ve been sending your sect allowance back to your people. A commendable act, indeed." His voice held a note of approval, but there was an underlying edge that made Ping Hai tense.
Xu Ziqing, watching the conversation envelop, grew wary. There were no rules about what one''s allowance from the sect was used for, although it was standard to use it to purchase pills and other resources to further their cultivation.
If what Elder Jun said was true, then that meant Ping Hai had come this far without the help of additional pills and resources. He was peripherally aware of Ping Hai''s contributions to the sect, he constantly took tasks without complaint and believed it was due to his ambition to grow stronger.
Ping Hai¡¯s reaction was immediate; his posture stiffened, and his eyes widened with a blend of fear and surprise. "E-Elder Jun, I... I only wished to¡ª" he began, his voice faltering, the smooth facade of the formidable disciple cracking under the weight of his youth and inexperience.
Elder Jun raised a hand, silencing him with a gentle yet firm gesture. "It''s a noble act, indeed. But remember, your ultimate duty now lies with the Silent Moon sect. Our path demands sacrifices, and at times, personal attachments must be set aside for the greater cause," he advised, his tone softening, almost coaxing.
Xu Ziqing watched, forgotten in the exchange, with growing unease, noting the subtle shift in Ping Hai''s demeanor. The young disciple''s initial fear slowly morphed into uncertainty, his eyes flickering between Elder Jun and Xu Ziqing, seeking an anchor in the tumultuous sea of emotions he found himself adrift in.
"As a gesture of the sect''s support for your commendable intentions, I will ensure your allowance for your village is not merely continued but doubled... no, tripled. This, however, will be in line with your dedication and achievements within the sect," Elder Jun proposed, his words carefully chosen, weaving a net of obligation and loyalty around Ping Hai.
Ping Hai swallowed hard, the conflict within him palpable. "I... I am grateful, Elder Jun. I will... I will work harder, for the sect," he stammered, his voice a mix of gratitude, determination, and an underlying current of fear. The transformation was gradual but evident as if Elder Jun¡¯s words were sculpting him, molding his loyalty with a potter''s precision.
Elder Jun''s eyes glinted with satisfaction at Ping Hai''s response, but his voice maintained its firm, encouraging tone. "Excellent, Ping Hai. Remember, the Silent Moon sect is your new family, your new village. Devote yourself to it fully, and your contributions will not only erase this minor setback but also elevate you and the sect to new heights."
His honeyed words, so sweet and alluring, pulled even at Xu Ziqing''s mind. The respected elder''s voice was like a calm sea, smooth and inviting, but Xu Ziqing could sense the undercurrents swirling beneath. Each word the elder spoke seemed to weave a tighter web around Ping Hai, binding the young disciple''s loyalty not just to the sect but to Elder Jun himself.
Ping Hai nodded, a newfound resolve firming his young features. "I will serve the Silent Moon sect to its fullest, Elder Jun!" he declared, the words carrying a weight that seemed to anchor him firmly to the path laid out by the elder. The third-class disciple fell to one knee and bowed, his eyes burning with a flame that seemed to revitalize his entire being.
"Very well, you are dismissed. We will speak further in the future," Elder Jun said, his tone final, signaling the end of the conversation. Ping Hai bowed deeply and exited, leaving Xu Ziqing and Elder Jun alone in the spacious, austere room.
As Ping Hai exited, leaving a palpable silence in his wake, Xu Ziqing''s thoughts churned with unease. The young disciple''s pledge of loyalty, so fervently offered under Elder Jun''s guiding words, sparked a flicker of doubt in Xu Ziqing''s mind. Was Ping Hai''s unwavering commitment being anchored to the ideals of the Silent Moon sect, or was it being subtly redirected towards Elder Jun himself?
The distinction was subtle, yet critical. Elder Jun''s influence was undeniable, but Xu Ziqing couldn''t shake the feeling that there might be more personal motives at play. ''Loyalty should be to the sect first, not to any one individual,'' he reminded himself, his wariness of Elder Jun''s intentions growing.
The thought unsettled him deeply. The strength of the Silent Moon sect had always been its unity, a collective force bound by shared ideals and purpose. Yet, if individual loyalties were being siphoned towards singular figures of power, could the sect''s cohesion fray, its collective might diluted by divided allegiances?
Xu Ziqing''s gaze shifted to Elder Jun, the elder''s silhouette framed by the dimming light. The lines between loyalty to the sect and loyalty to its leaders blurred in the twilight, leaving the second-class disciple to wonder at the true nature of the bonds being forged in the quiet confines of these austere chambers. Elder Jun''s words, though cloaked in the language of unity and sect prosperity, carried an undercurrent that seemed to weave a personal bond between the elder and Ping Hai¡ªa bond that might serve to elevate Elder Jun''s own standing and agenda.
Once the door had closed behind Ping Hai, Elder Jun turned his penetrating gaze to him, making the Azure Moon Marauder swallow nervously. "With the right guidance, Ping Hai will move beyond this loss. He has the potential to be instrumental in the sect''s future, possibly making up for today''s loss of the beast core and more."
Xu Ziqing nodded, though a flicker of unease still danced in his eyes. "Ping Hai''s loyalty is indeed valuable, Elder. However, the loss of the Wind Serpent beast core is a significant setback," he ventured cautiously.
Elder Jun''s expression remained impassive, but a small smile played at the corners of his mouth. "The Wind Serpent beast core, while valuable, is not the end goal, Xu Ziqing. It is but one of many. What I seek is the accumulation of power for the sect, through whatever means necessary."
His brow furrowed slightly at the elder''s words, the implications unsettling. The sect elder leaned forward, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "The true strength of the Silent Moon lies not in individual beast cores but in our collective power and unity. Securing the third-class disciples'' unwavering loyalty today is a gain, not a loss."
He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "We stand at the precipice of change, Xu Ziqing. The Silent Moon must evolve, shedding its old skin. It begins with the hearts of our disciples, yes, but it will not end there. We must be prepared to redefine what it means to belong to the Silent Moon."
The second-class disciple acknowledged it; the sect was undergoing subtle shifts, especially with the succession process for the new Sect Leader taking place soon. However, he couldn''t help but remark that many of the ripples in the sect were being caused by Elder Jun himself.
The older man rose, his silhouette casting long shadows. "You have a new mission, Xu Ziqing. The auction in Crescent Bay City awaits your presence. Purchase as many beast cores as you can. They are but mere keys, opening doors to alliances and powers yet unseen."
As Elder Jun spoke of the upcoming auction and the acquisitions that awaited, Xu Ziqing couldn''t help but feel a chill that had nothing to do with the evening air. There was something in the elder''s tone, a certain surety, as if the pieces of a grander game were falling into place according to a plan only he could see.
''For the sect, or for yourself, Elder?'' Xu Ziqing mused silently.
But contrary to his thoughts, he only nodded affirmatively and asked a question, seemingly out of curiosity rather than caution. "May I ask, Elder, why these items? What doors do we aim to unlock?"
Elder Jun''s smile widened, cryptic and unsettling. "Every key has its lock, Xu Ziqing. Our chosen gifts will welcome not just a person but a new era for the Silent Moon."
73. Tales and Tonics
Being injured sucked.
In some ways, this was worse than when I got thrashed by the Wind Serpents in Qingmu. At least they had the decency not to fracture my arms.
The infirmary was a world apart from the bustling training grounds and serene gardens of the sect. Its air was thick with the scent of medicinal herbs, a fragrance that was both comforting and incessant. It reminded me of home in the Gentle Wind Village. The familiarity of the aroma wrapped around me like a blanket.
However...
Three days. It took me three days to get the approval from the doctor in charge of the infirmary to let me do low-impact activities like turning pages of books. For the first three, I had to learn how to hold a book and turn to the next page with my toes!
Whether it was the sheer amount of time I could only read or meditate with, I burned through pages faster than one could say "cultivation breakthrough."
Books surrounded my bed, forming a makeshift library that became my refuge. The stacks, some reaching up to my hip, were reminders of the world beyond these four walls. Each volume, with its creased spine and dog-eared pages, kept me busy from the dull, aching pain of my wounds.
Aside from ruminating about what I should do with the Technique Token I gained from the Interface, there wasn''t much else to do aside from focusing on recovery. It allowed me to make a ton of progress on my reading skill.
Each book was a world of its own, filled with alchemical recipes, tales of legendary cultivators, and intricate diagrams of qi circulation. Whatever my friends could get their hands on. I told them to surprise me.
But even amidst this sea of knowledge, my mind often wandered back to the events that led me here, to this quiet corner of the infirmary.
The doctor, a stern-faced woman by the name of Fei Ni, with hands as gentle as her demeanor was strict, had initially given me a bleak forecast. "A week and a half, at the very least," she had said, her tone leaving no room for negotiation. But she hadn''t accounted for Tianyi.
Tianyi, my constant companion and source of solace, had nestled close to me throughout my recovery. Her presence was more than just comforting; it was healing. The serene blue glow that emanated from her seemed to weave through my injuries, stitching together what was broken with a delicacy no human hand could achieve.
Under her watchful care, my left arm had mended with a speed that left the infirmary staff baffled.
"Impossible," Fei Ni had muttered under her breath, her eyes wide as she examined the almost fully healed limb. But in the world of cultivators, where the impossible often became possible, Tianyi''s healing prowess was a miracle I had come to cherish.
The doctor occasionally requested for Tianyi''s help, marvelling at the potent effects of her skills. Even though the Interface didn''t say it outright, I knew she was due for a breakthrough soon. I could feel her abilities strengthening with every passing day.
I reached out to Tianyi with a wave of gratitude, feeling the warm buzz of positive emotions in return through our bond.
"This young master pays back grace twofold, and those who treat me unjustly shall see themselves at the unfortunate end of my fist! Thank you for your services, colorful one."
However, my right hand, the one that bore the brunt of Ping Hai''s formidable grip, was another story. The fractures were more severe, the damage more profound. It was a constant reminder of the price of my actions, a price I was still paying. The doctor had warned me that this injury would tether me to the infirmary for a longer stretch, its healing was stubbornly resistant to even Tianyi''s magical touch.
So, I turned to what I could do¡ªread. Each book became a temporary escape, a portal to a realm where my injuries were inconsequential, and my spirit roamed free. Yet, as I read, I couldn''t shake off that small twinge of frustration and impatience welling up within me.
The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet was fast approaching, and here I was, confined to a bed, my body a patchwork of healing and hurt. The irony wasn''t lost on me; in my pursuit of strength and knowledge to protect those I cared about, I had rendered myself temporarily helpless.
But wallowing in self-pity wasn''t my style. I glanced over at my quest, the one I had been focusing on completing since my time away from training, and the screen from the Heavenly Interface flickered to life.
As I poured over the texts, my focus was singular: the creation of the Healing Hydrosol. I had meticulously ticked off almost every requirement of the quest, my understanding of alchemical processes and ingredient properties deepening with each passing day. The tienchi ginseng, common reed, and hyacinth orchid had all been studied extensively.
However, the spirit moss remained the final piece of the puzzle. Despite its unassuming nature and the rather mundane ''spirit'' in its name, my research revealed its unheralded potential. Rare in our region, this humble moss was more than meets the eye. Used in household remedies, it treats colds and inflammations with surprising efficacy. Its antibacterial properties made it an excellent material for wound dressings, a natural safeguard against infection.
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I already asked Feng Wu about it, because I hadn''t seen them being cultivated in the sect''s greenhouses or gardens. He did mention that the spirit moss grew further up north, by a lake just outside of the sect premises.
Lost in thought, I set aside the book I had just finished, its pages filled with the ancient wisdom of alchemists long gone. That''s when the familiar glow of the Heavenly Interface caught my eye, a welcome distraction from the frustration of the elusive spirit moss.
A notification floated before me, its message a testament to the countless hours spent with my nose buried in books:
I punched the air with a triumphant fist.
"At last!"
It took months to get here. The Interface said to read thirty books, but I ended up plowing through way more, trying to grasp the ''basic understanding'' it wanted. It was a metric that was frustratingly vague.
Tianyi, drawn by my exuberant outburst, fluttered close, her delicate wings casting a subtle glow as she landed on the tip of my nose. The rustle of the curtain announced Fei Ni''s arrival, her finger pressed to her lips in a gentle reprimand.
"Quiet, please."
I offered an apologetic bow, my movements constrained by my seated position. Forgot I was in the infirmary, usually a quiet place except for the odd disciple with training bruises.
"Sorry, doctor."
My gaze drifted to the stack of books by my bedside, a literary tower that had steadily dwindled to a mere thirteen volumes. Li Na and Han Wei had turned my predicament into a playful wager, continuously updating the stack to challenge my reading limits. This latest batch was their boldest bet yet. Before, the prospect of finishing seemed daunting, but now, with my newfound skill...
I grabbed another book and started to read.
The book I had been saving for last was titled "The Ethereal Weave of Qi: Understanding the Intangible." It was a tome that delved deep into the nuanced theories of Qi manipulation and its application in both cultivation and alchemy. To say it was complex would be an understatement. The subject matter was dense, filled with abstract concepts and intricate diagrams that made my head spin after reading the first ten pages.
Yet, as I began to read, something remarkable happened. The words seemed to flow effortlessly, their meanings unraveling before me like a tapestry being woven at the hands of a master weaver. It was as if my mind had been attuned to a higher frequency, one that allowed me to grasp the essence of the text with a clarity I had never experienced before.
The Accelerated Reading skill had transformed my reading experience. Complex sentences that would have once required rereading and contemplation now made sense in a single glance. Paragraphs that would have bogged me down with their density were now stepping stones, propelling me forward through the pages with a newfound ease.
I couldn''t help but marvel at this development. Was the skill making me smarter? It certainly felt that way. The implications were profound, extending far beyond just reading faster. This skill had the potential to accelerate my learning in all areas; acquiring new knowledge and skills not just faster, but more intuitively.
As I turned the pages, my eyes scanning the text at a pace that would have been unimaginable just days before, I couldn''t suppress a grin. The Accelerated Reading skill was a game-changer, a tool that would undoubtedly become one of my most valuable assets on the journey ahead.
The realization that I was no longer bound by the slow march of conventional learning filled me with an exhilarating sense of potential. The world of cultivation, with its endless mysteries and challenges, seemed a little less daunting, a little more accessible.
Enlightenment, here I come!
Li Na and Han Wei burst into the infirmary, their arms laden with yet another stack of books. Their eyes widened in disbelief as they took in the neatly organized pile of completed reads by my bedside.
"Kai, you didn''t..." Han Wei began, skepticism coloring his tone.
With a smug smile, I leaned back against my pillows. "Every single one," I declared, unable to hide the pride in my voice.
Not entirely convinced, Han Wei picked a volume at random from the ''finished'' stack and flipped it open. "Alright, then. What''s the key concept of chapter seven in this one?" he challenged, his eyes darting between the book and me.
I paused for a moment, letting the gears in my mind turn. The Accelerated Reading skill didn''t just make the words fly by; it made them stick. "Ah, that chapter delves into the symbiotic relationship between the cultivator''s qi and the ambient natural energies. It''s about harmonizing the two to enhance cultivation efficiency," I answered confidently, the details coming back to me as if I had just read them.
Li Na''s eyebrows shot up, impressed. "Wow, Kai. That''s... actually correct."
With a resigned chuckle, Han Wei placed the book back on the pile and handed me the new stack, though noticeably smaller than the previous ones. "We figured yesterday''s was a bit overkill. But, man, carrying these back and forth is becoming a workout in itself."
I accepted the books with a grateful nod, my spirits buoyed by their continued support. "Thanks, you two. I really appreciate it. You know, I was thinking of asking Fei Ni if I could step outside for a bit. Get some fresh air, you know?"
Li Na''s concern was immediate. "Are you sure you''re up for that? You''ve been through a lot."
I flexed my left arm, showing its almost complete recovery. "Yeah, I think a little stroll might do me good. Plus, Tianyi''s been cooped up here with me. She could use some sunlight."
Together, we approached Fei Ni, who was meticulously organizing her medical instruments. Seeing our approach, she raised an eyebrow in silent inquiry.
Dropping to the floor with all the dramatic flair I could muster, I clasped my hands together. "Oh, great and benevolent healer, might this humble disciple bask in the glory of the sun''s rays, if only for a brief moment?" I pleaded, laying it on thick.
Fei Ni''s stern facade cracked, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Get up, you melodramatic child. Fine, you can go outside. But," she added, her tone firming, "if I hear you''ve overexerted yourself, it''s straight back here. Understood?"
"Understood!" I chirped, practically leaping to my feet, buoyed by the prospect of feeling the sun on my face again.
"So, what''s the grand plan? More book hunting?" Han Wei joked, his eyes glinting with mirth.
I shook my head, already feeling the gentle warmth of the sun calling to me. "Actually, I''m thinking of taking a little trip just outside the sect. There''s some spirit moss I need to track down for the Healing Hydrosol quest."
Li Na''s brows furrowed with concern. "That sounds like it could be strenuous. Need a hand or two?"
I appreciated their offer, their readiness to leap into another adventure, no questions asked. But this was something I needed to do on my own. "Thanks, but I''ll be fine. I''ve got Tianyi and Windy for company," I reassured them, smiling at the thought of my two companions. "Don''t want to drag you into more of my messes."
After a moment''s hesitation, they acquiesced. "Alright, but don''t do anything too crazy," Han Wei warned, only half-joking.
With farewells exchanged, I made my way to the guest quarters, a sense of purpose fueling my steps. I hoped Windy hadn''t decided to embark on one of their impromptu hunting expeditions.
Upon entering the guest quarters, a heart-stopping sight greeted me. There, in the dimly lit corner of the room, lay what appeared to be the lifeless form of Windy. My breath hitched, and a cold dread settled in my stomach.
"No, Windy... please, no," I whispered, my voice barely audible, a mix of disbelief and despair washing over me. The idea that my adventurous little companion might have met an untimely end was too much to bear.
How could this have happened? I thought they were smart enough to open windows, and I even left it slightly ajar to avoid this exact scenario!
With a trembling hand, I reached out, the finality of the moment weighing heavily upon me. But as my fingers brushed against the supposed remains, a wave of confusion swept through me. The texture was all wrong; it was dry, brittle, and... hollow? My heart, which had plummeted to the depths of despair, began a cautious ascent back to hope.
In an instant, the grim atmosphere shattered as realization dawned upon me. It wasn''t Windy, but their shed skin! Relief flooded through me, so intense it almost bordered on giddiness. I burst into laughter, the sound bouncing off the walls and filling the room with its absurdity.
Just then, from the shadowy recesses of the room, a familiar hiss and the gentle rustle of scales approached. Windy, very much alive and sporting a fresh, glossy coat of scales, slithered into view, their tongue flicking out as if amused by my dramatic display.
Cradled gently in their coils was the Wind Serpent beast core, its energy pulsating softly.
Relief washed over me, mixed with a burgeoning pride in Windy''s growth. "Had me worried there for a second," I chided playfully, picking up the shed skin and examining it. "Looks like you''re growing up fast, huh? Soon, we''ll know if you''re a little brother or sister."
Windy''s response was a soft hiss, a sign of contentment as it uncoiled and slithered up to my uninjured shoulder. Oof, not a little hatchling anymore, I suppose. No matter! It''d be good to get a bit of physical activity before I fully heal.
With Tianyi fluttering by my side and Windy wrapped securely around my upper body, I stepped out into the sun, ready to embrace the day''s challenges. The quest for the elusive spirit moss awaited, and with my companions at my side, I was ready to depart.
But first, I had to deal with the immediate challenge of navigating the sect''s grounds with one good arm and a body still mending. "Let''s take it slow, team. We''ve got moss to find."
74. Foraging
The verdant expanse surrounding the Verdant Lotus sect buzzed with life, invigorating me with every step. Earthly Root Connection made each breath seem like it cleansed me from within.
"Ah, the fresh scent of adventure! Isn''t that right, Tianyi?"
She fluttered up to my nose, signaling her approval. Windy, poking out of my sleeve, flicked out their tongue back and forth before returning back into the darkness of my sleeve.
It was getting colder by the day. All the trees had turned orange, leaving me with the nice sensation of crackling leaves as I walked the beaten path.
The chill of approaching winter tinted the landscape with hues of orange, the crisp sounds of leaves underfoot accompanying my steps on the well-trodden path.
Finally arriving at the river up north, where the elusive spirit moss was rumored to thrive, I couldn''t help but grumble at the uneven terrain. The rocky riverbank, coupled with my arm still snug in its cast, made for an amusing yet challenging trek.
"Behold, my faithful companions, the uneven battleground upon which we stand! A lesser man might falter, but I, with my boundless determination and slightly impaired balance, shall persevere!" I declared, navigating the riverbank with exaggerated caution.
It wouldn''t do to re-break the careful healing of my arm. Doctor Fei Ni would likely strap me to the bed, unable to move a finger at that rate.
Somewhere among this greenery, the elusive spirit moss awaited.
Gently, I lowered Windy to the ground, allowing them to explore the lush bank freely. "Seek out our verdant quarry, brave Windy," I encouraged, watching as they slithered away with an eager flick of their tongue.
Tianyi, ever vigilant, hovered nearby, her wings a blur of motion. "We''re on the hunt for spirit moss," I explained to her, "emerald green, with feather-like fronds that sprawl in a spiral pattern. Keep your eyes peeled."
As I began my own search, I muttered to myself about the likely habitats of the moss, based on my extensive, yet recently acquired, reading. "Near rocks and trees, the texts said. Moist, shaded areas where the sun''s touch is gentle, not harsh."
My mind wandered to the role it would play in my hydrosol concoction.
As I meandered along the riverbank, my gaze fixed on the nooks and crannies that might harbor the spirit moss, I pondered its peculiar name and scarce references in the sect''s archives. "Not much to go on, really," I mused. "It''s more or less a footnote, known more for its luminescent turquoise glow in the evening than any profound medicinal properties."
I crouched by a particularly moist patch of earth, scanning the area while recalling the other types of moss I''d studied. "Peat moss, club moss... each with its own unique uses in medicine and tea. But spirit moss?"
The thought nagged at me as I sifted through the underbrush. "There''s got to be more to it. Perhaps it''s like those rare herbs that don''t reveal their true potential until put under the alchemist''s flame."
With Windy exploring nearby and Tianyi flitting about in her diligent search, I couldn''t help but feel a mix of anticipation and frustration.
Tianyi''s sudden, excited fluttering caught my attention, breaking through my contemplative state. Following her lead, I navigated the uneven terrain with a careful gait, mindful of my still-mending arm. She led me further upstream, where the babbling of the river seemed to sing in harmony with the rustling leaves.
There, nestled between two moss-covered rocks, was Windy, their body coiled with an air of triumph. The surrounding stones were blanketed in a lush layer of moss that seemed to dance with an ethereal glow, its emerald fronds sprawling out in intricate spirals just as the texts had described.
Kneeling beside the serene spectacle, I carefully inspected the moss, confirming its identity against the mental checklist of characteristics I had memorized. The vibrant green hue, the delicate, feather-like texture¡ªit was unmistakably the spirit moss we sought.
"With the keen eyes of Tianyi and the steadfast determination of Windy, we have unveiled the hidden gem of the northern wilds!" I praised, my tone teeming with the grandeur of a seasoned cultivator.
I turned to my companions, a wide grin spreading across my face. "This, my dear allies, is a victory not just for our quest, but for the annals of Verdant Lotus lore! May the province sing of this day, when Kai, Tianyi, and Windy conquered the elusive spirit moss!"
Their reactions were as expected¡ªTianyi buzzed with a joyful hum, while Windy simply flicked their tongue.
"Together, we shall usher in a new era of alchemical marvels, starting with the humble yet mighty spirit moss!" I declared.
Gingerly, I prodded the moss with the fingers of my good hand, adopting the same methodology I used when I dealt with new plants. The moss felt cool and slightly damp to the touch, its texture both delicate and resilient. I tapped into my Plant Whisperer skill, hoping it might shed some light on the enigmatic spirit moss.
Concentrating, I extended my senses towards the moss, seeking a deeper connection, a whisper of insight into its hidden qualities.
"Ah, what secrets do you hold, oh verdant enigma?" I mused aloud, half expecting the moss to whisper its mysteries. Deciding that a visual inspection alone wouldn''t suffice, I resolved to delve deeper into its essence.
However, the moss remained silent, its secrets locked away beyond my skill''s reach. My Plant Whisperer skill, while a boon in the wild, seemed to offer little more than an instinctual understanding of how to interact with plants, a guide to their basic handling and use rather than a key to their deeper mysteries. It was akin to a sixth sense for the green world, an intuitive nudge in the right direction when faced with unfamiliar flora. While it had proven invaluable in my Advanced Herbology classes, it was not the all-revealing oracle I might have hoped for in this moment.
With a focused breath, I placed my palm over a small patch of the moss, channeling a gentle flow of qi to coax out its essence. The moss responded to my touch, a soft, turquoise glow emanating from beneath my hand as I carefully gathered a small orb of its essence.
Inspecting the glowing orb, I marveled at its beauty and pondered its potential. "Now, to safely store you away for further study," I muttered, only to realize with a sinking feeling that I hadn''t brought a vial.
With my one good arm occupied with maintaining the essence, I awkwardly fumbled through my pouch with my elbow, hoping I had overlooked a spare container. Perhaps I could ask Windy to snake inside my pouch and see?
In my flustered state, I failed to notice a protruding root on the ground. My foot caught on it, and a jolt of panic shot through me.
"By the heavens, not now!" I exclaimed as I teetered precariously. Tianyi, sensing my alarm, could only flutter about helplessly. After all, she couldn''t steady my fall.
Well, she could. She''d just get crushed in the process. I have no doubt she was more durable than the average butterfly, but this was likely too much of a challenge for her.
Faced with the choice between preserving the essence and preventing a potentially disastrous fall, I instinctively opted for the latter. With a regretful sigh, I tossed the essence orb away and executed a swift handstand, using my good arm to break my fall.
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
The world turned upside down for a brief moment before I righted myself, standing back up with a flourish that would have made Instructor Xia Ji and Li Na proud.
"Aha! Behold the grace of a wounded crane!" I boasted to no one in particular, my heart racing from the close call.
Catching my breath, I couldn''t help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. "Thank the heavens for those relentless drills,"
I was grateful for the agility and mobility they had instilled in me.
If there was one thing that remained from my epic training to defeat the mountain named as Ping Hai, it was that the Bamboo Reprisal Counter helped me become more acrobatic.
It was an odd thing; I spent a month learning, it and didn''t actually register it into the Interface until I used it against Ping Hai. I managed to use it against Han Wei and Li Na in practice, so why didn''t I learn it then?
Well, it didn''t matter to me much. So long as I learned it eventually. The Interface is vague about many of the things it does. Perhaps one day I''ll uncover its secrets.
As I steadied myself after the near miss, a wave of relief washed over me. I looked back to where I had inadvertently thrown the essence orb, half-expecting it to have dissipated. Instead, Tianyi was hovering over a small puddle that now glowed with a subtle turquoise light.
Intrigued, I approached and observed the essence interacting with the water. It spread out in a radiant display, reminiscent of ink diffusing in water, creating a mesmerizing pattern that seemed to pulse with life. It continued for a moment longer, before eventually dying down and turning back to a regular puddle.
The sight was not only beautiful but revealing; it dawned on me that the true nature of spirit moss manifested when its essence mingled with water! Of course!
I gathered a handful of the moss, carefully placing it in my pouch for further study. Judging by the lack of activity from the Heavenly Interface, I was only scratching the surface of its hidden qualities. I''d need to go back.
"Tianyi, WIndy! We''ve accomplished our mission. Let''s go."
Windy seemed unwilling to return, cozying up near the rocks. They seemed to have found a new favorite spot.
I tried coaxing them with a gentle nudge, "Come on, Windy, adventure''s over for today," but they merely flicked their tongue, indifferent to my plea.
Just as I was about to give up and let them enjoy their newfound nook a bit longer, Tianyi, with her delicate grace, fluttered over and landed gently on Windy''s head. There were no words exchanged, of course, but the subtle shift in Windy''s demeanor was unmistakable. It was as if Tianyi had imparted some silent wisdom or perhaps just offered a butterfly''s version of encouragement.
With what seemed like a resigned sigh from a creature without lungs, Windy finally relented, uncoiling themselves from their rocky embrace and slithering up to my awaiting hand. "Thank you, both of you," I said, feeling a mix of amusement and gratitude for their peculiar little interaction.
With Windy safely on my arm and Tianyi leading the way, we made our way back to the Verdant Lotus sect. The daylight was still in our favor, casting long shadows that danced alongside us as we trekked through the vibrant, changing landscape of the sect''s outskirts. The day''s adventure had been fruitful, and the promise of unlocking the spirit moss''s secrets awaited.
I made a beeline for the alchemy pavilion. The essence''s reaction with water had sparked a theory in my mind, one I was eager to test. I remembered reading about the moss''s basic properties¡ªits use in dressing wounds due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. My Essence Extraction skill tended to amplify a plant''s effects, so it stood to reason that the essence, when combined with water, might create a potent healing solution.
Once in the pavilion, I quickly gathered the necessary materials: a small bowl, purified water, and a sterilized knife. My heart raced with anticipation as I poured the water into the bowl and prepared another sample of spirit moss. With a steady hand, I extracted its essence, watching as the glowing turquoise orb formed above my palm.
Carefully, I dropped the essence into the bowl of water, and the reaction was immediate. The essence dispersed, creating a captivating display reminiscent of the earlier spectacle by the river. This time, however, I was ready to test its effects firsthand.
With a mix of apprehension and excitement, I pressed the knife to my finger, making a small, deliberate cut. A drop of blood welled up, but I didn''t give it time to linger. I submerged my finger into the bowl, the cool, essence-infused water enveloping the wound.
The sensation was immediate and unmistakable¡ªa gentle, soothing warmth that seemed to penetrate deep into the cut. I watched, fascinated, as the edges of the wound appeared to draw closer, the skin knitting together with a speed that defied belief.
However, the aura surrounding the water seemed to dissipate, becoming fainter and fainter until the distinct hue was no more.
After a few minutes, I lifted my finger from the water, half-expecting to see the cut still there. But no, the skin was healed, leaving only the faintest line to show where the wound had been. Astonishment washed over me. The essence of spirit moss, when merged with water, possessed remarkable healing capabilities, far beyond what I had anticipated.
I''d never encountered such a notification before. As I mentally braced for whatever was to come, a wave of dizziness swept over me, plunging me into darkness.
When my senses returned, I found myself in a nondescript room, devoid of any familiar landmarks. Glancing down, I realized, with a start, that I had no physical form here. "What in the...?" I muttered, trying to make sense of the situation. Tianyi and Windy were nowhere to be found.
My hands reached into nothingness where they should have been. The instinctual need to touch, to feel, was met with an eerie absence that sent a shiver through my non-corporeal form. I waved my hands, or at least I thought I did, in front of where my face should have been, but there was nothing¡ªno sensation of air moving, no visual confirmation, just the unsettling void.
"Hello?"
I couldn''t feel the sensation of my mouth moving, but the voice clearly echoed.
Before I could ponder further, a robed figure appeared, featureless and enigmatic, moving towards a table laden with the very ingredients I needed for the hydrosol¡ªspirit moss, tienchi ginseng, hyacinth orchid, and common reed. Their movements were precise, almost ritualistic, using tools similar to the ones in the pavilion but intricate designs I couldn''t help but notice.
Where had I seen those before?
I watched, fascinated yet bewildered, as the figure demonstrated the creation of the hydrosol. Their method was unfamiliar, yet somehow, it felt right. It was like watching Elder Zhu at work; I couldn''t grasp the full depth of his skills, but I recognized their effectiveness. This figure''s handling of the ingredients was beyond my current understanding, yet it resonated with me on an instinctual level; I couldn''t miss an iota of what was being demonstrated here.
As the figure in robes approached the table, I couldn''t help but notice the setup. Spirit moss, tienchi ginseng, hyacinth orchid, and common reed were all laid out, ready for use. Their movements were deliberate, almost like they were performing some sacred ritual.
Watching them work was mesmerizing. They didn''t just chop the tienchi ginseng; they had a special way of handling it, teasing out its essence without brute force. For the hyacinth orchid...Instead of crushing the petals, they gently rubbed them together, preserving their beauty while drawing out the essence. It was nothing like I''d ever seen.
The common reed was another surprise. No simple cutting here¡ªthey tapped along its length.
Seconds turned into minutes, and minutes turned into hours.
As the demonstration continued, a strange sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu washed over me. The room''s layout, the design of the tools, something about them was eerily familiar. It took me a moment, but then it clicked¡ªthe resemblance to the ruins where I first encountered the Heavenly Interface was uncanny.
With each ingredient prepared, the figure began the actual process of creating the hydrosol. They used a distillation setup that was familiar yet foreign, with glassware that seemed to twist and turn in ways that defied my understanding of alchemy.
A small window in the room allowed a sliver of moonlight to filter through, casting a serene glow over the scene.
The figure carefully placed a bowl in the water, ensuring it was in direct view of the moonlight, and slowly poured the essence of the spirit moss into it. The liquid''s hue deepened, creating a spectacle of turquoise that was even more intense than what I had observed during my own experiment by the river.
This deliberate action, under the moon''s gentle gaze, seemed to amplify the moss''s known properties. I realized the significance of this step; the spirit moss was renowned for its ethereal glow in the moonlight, and here, in this trance-induced vision, the figure was harnessing that very trait, enhancing it through the alchemical process.
As the other ingredients were distilled into a hydrosol, dripping steadily into a separate bowl, I watched the entire procedure come together. Each drop seemed to fall with the deliberate slowness of honey sliding down a spoon, pooling into the bowl with a hypnotic regularity that drew me deeper into the vision.
The figure''s methodical, precise movements, the careful handling of each element, all contributed to the creation of something truly unique¡ªa healing hydrosol imbued with a constant, gentle glow.
What struck me was the permanence of this glow. Even as the figure moved the finished product away from the moonlight, the hydrosol continued to emit a subtle, turquoise light. It was a revelation; the temporary, natural luminescence of the spirit moss had been transformed into a permanent feature of the hydrosol through this intricate and deliberate method.
I committed every single detail to memory. I''d have to analyze every single move, every touch. It went beyond the basic alchemical processes I was familiar with, hinting at a level of mastery that I had yet to fully comprehend.
"Uh, thank you! I learned very well from this experience!"
Although I knew the figure wouldn''t hear me, seeing as it hadn''t reacted to my presence as it darted around the room throughout the entire process, I thanked it. After all, a man who doesn''t show grace is no more than a beast!
To my disbelief, the figure paused in its meticulous work and turned towards where I perceived myself to stand. Despite lacking any discernible facial features or a clear form, the gesture was unmistakably directed at me¡ªa wave that acknowledged my presence in this ethereal space.
With a start, I found myself back in the present, the sensation of my physical form returning in a rush of sensory overload.
Tianyi and Windy seemed to be doing their thing, unaware of the mental journey I''d just been on. I checked outside¡ªstill mid-afternoon. That whole vision felt like hours, but here, only minutes had passed.
"Time''s weird," I muttered to myself. There was a lot to unpack from what I''d just seen. That detailed process of making the hydrosol wasn''t something I could just wing later. I needed to get this right, especially with how the spirit moss essence worked in the moonlight.
Heading back to my quarters seemed like the best move. It was quiet there, a good place to think and sort through everything I''d learned. And with the night coming up, I had the perfect setting to try out the hydrosol recipe for real.
Tianyi followed closely, her gentle fluttering a constant comfort. Windy, now more subdued, stayed wrapped around my arm, almost as if sensing the importance of what was to come.
Once in my room, I laid out my notes and the ingredients I''d need. Tonight''s experiment under the moonlight would be crucial. It was all about getting the essence to glow just right, just like that figure! Making the healing hydrosol not just effective but special.
"Okay, let''s break this down," I said to myself, focusing on the task at hand. The night''s work would be a true test of what I''d learned, both from my classes and from that mysterious, faceless figure in my vision.
75. Under The Glow of Turquoise Light
"Please, pay me no mind," Elder Zhu said, his eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief. "I''m merely here as an assistant."
I offered a sheepish grin, the weight of my cast-laden arm a tangible reminder of the delicate balance between ambition and capability. "Thank you, Elder. I just hope my... current predicament doesn''t hinder the process too much."
The array of ingredients before me was meticulously arranged, illuminated by the brilliant moonlight that now bathed the pavilion just after midnight. I mentally rehearsed the procedure once more, ensuring the alchemical apparatus and tools were primed for the task at hand.
Recalling the unique preparation methods from my vision, I felt a twinge of apprehension. The precise handling required was daunting, especially with my injured hand cocooned in plaster.
Gaining access to the pavilion outside regular hours required an instructor''s consent. The heavens smiled upon me when I encountered Elder Zhu securing the premises for the night.
Sensing my hesitation, he offered a reassuring smile. "The path of alchemy is fraught with challenges, Kai. But it is my duty as an instructor to help you overcome them. How may I assist you in this endeavor?"
Having his support was invaluable. I glanced downward, lamenting the loss of my dominant hand.
"If you could help me stir this into the moonlight water, Elder, I''d be much obliged. The essence... it''s delicate, and I fear my current... clumsiness might not do it justice."
As Elder Zhu nodded in agreement, I turned my attention to the tienchi ginseng. It was time to work.
Unlike the brute force often employed in its preparation, the vision had shown a more nuanced approach that preserved its integrity. With a careful, one-handed maneuver, I mimicked the technique, slicing the ginseng with a precision that belied the awkwardness of my cast.
Without my dominant hand, I had to make sure I was more precise, taking it as slow as I needed. This portion of the recipe demanded accuracy, not speed. Perfect things take time, after all.
Next came the hyacinth orchid, its petals delicate and fragrant. I followed the vision''s guidance, rubbing the petals between my fingers to release their essence, a method far removed from conventional practices yet somehow instinctively right.
The common reed required a subtler touch still. Instead of chopping, I tapped along its length with the flat of the blade, awakening its hidden properties in a manner that I had yet to fully understand.
Doubt nibbled at the edges of my focus as I worked. Had I captured every nuance of the recipe? The vision had been replayed countless times within the confines of my Memory Palace, each review a desperate attempt to understand the reasoning behind the figure''s every move. Though the insights gleaned were sparse, they lent a certain sureness to my hands.
Ancestors guide me! Let this work!
With each ingredient prepared and placed in the alchemical still, I activated the flame under the equipment with a pulse of qi. Soon, the hydrosol would be ready. I turned to Elder Zhu. The memory of rejecting his offer to become his apprentice still stabbed away at me. To think he''d be so willing to help despite all that...
The anxiety of my potential clumsiness gave way to a quiet confidence, buoyed by Elder Zhu''s steady presence. "Elder, your help tonight... it means more than I can say."
Elder Zhu chuckled softly, his focus unwavering from the bowl before him. "Kai, the pursuit of knowledge is a journey best shared. It''s my honor to assist in bringing your vision to life."
As we worked in tandem, I could feel the glow of the spirit moss essence growing stronger. It seemed that even without being introduced to the water, the effect of moonlight making the spirit moss glow persisted.
"I think now would be the best time to start blending the essence with the water, Elder Zhu."
I glanced at the older man, who had begun the delicate task of blending the spirit moss essence with the moonlit water. His movements were measured and precise, a dance of shadow and light that mesmerized and inspired.
One day, maybe...No.
I will reach that realm. That level of expertise. I will reach it, without a doubt. Like the figure from my trance, like Elder Zhu, I''ll be able to create the finest of pills and potions with a wave fo my hand!
"Is this satisfactory, Kai?"
He showed me the bowl. The bowl Elder Zhu held out to me shimmered with a captivating turquoise glow, a testament to his meticulous stirring.
"It''s perfect, Elder. Thank you. I doubt I could have achieved such precision with my current handicap."
With a nod of acknowledgment, Elder Zhu placed the bowl carefully on the workbench, his eyes reflecting the mixture''s gentle luminescence. I turned my attention to the alchemical still, where the hydrosol had been quietly accumulating, drop by drop, a clear liquid that held the promise of healing.
"Elder Zhu, might I impose upon your kindness once more?" I asked, gesturing towards the still. "The hydrosol needs to be introduced to the spirit moss-moonlight water mix slowly, in a steady stream, just as the figure in my vision demonstrated."
Without a word, Elder Zhu assisted, his hands steady as he manipulated the apparatus to allow the hydrosol to flow into the glowing bowl. The mixture''s reaction was immediate; the glow intensified, casting an ethereal light that seemed to fill the pavilion. But as quickly as it flared, the glow simmered down to a persistent, gentle radiance.
Elder Zhu, his curiosity piqued, leaned in closer. "Is the concoction complete, then?"
I shook my head, a smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. "Not quite. What makes this hydrosol special isn''t just its healing properties, but its enduring glow. The spirit moss''s effect typically fades swiftly, but this...this recipe ensures the glow remains, preserving its properties."
To test its efficacy, I gingerly removed the cast from my fractured hand, the plaster coming away with a soft crunch. The moonlight cast stark shadows over the healed yet still tender skin. I hesitated for only a moment before submerging my hand in the glowing mixture.
The sensation was unlike anything I''d experienced¡ªa gentle, tingling warmth that seeped deep into my skin, soothing the lingering ache in my bones. Elder Zhu watched, his expression thoughtful.
Minutes stretched on, the pavilion wrapped in a tranquil silence broken only by the soft murmur of the night. When I finally withdrew my hand, the anticipation was palpable. Flexing my fingers, I braced for the familiar stab of pain¡ªbut it never came. The discomfort had been significantly alleviated, a clear sign of the hydrosol''s potent healing capabilities.
Elder Zhu''s eyes widened slightly, a rare show of surprise. "Remarkable," he murmured, his gaze shifting between my hand and the still-glowing mixture.
I couldn''t help but smile. I tried to show a dignified side of me, but all I could muster was a bare whisper. "It worked, Elder. The recipe is complete."
Elder Zhu leaned in, his scholarly interest evident as he observed the persistent glow of the mixture. "This is most intriguing, Kai. The properties of this hydrosol... they remind me of a concoction I once read about in the ancient archives. There might be a historical precedent for your discovery."
"That''s... quite an honor, Elder Zhu. To think my experimentation might align with the works of the great alchemists of old."
Perhaps that was intentional on the Heavenly Interface''s part. Who knows how long it had existed, in those ruins waiting to be activated? Essence Extraction was an a ability only known to Master Li Tao, the previous head of the alchemy pavilion. But now, it was alive in me.
You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.
Maybe even the Rooted Banyan Stance and Crimson Lotus Purification Method were skills or techniques that had been lost to time, revived by the Heavenly Interface.
Or maybe it''s still out there somewhere, the closely guard secret of a sect. I suppose they wouldn''t take too kindly to a civilian possessing their techniques. Then they''d probably send assassins after me, or make me pay for learning such a thing...
The thought of several Ping Hai-sized assassins aiming for my life terrified me.
I didn''t want to think about it. Let''s hope nobody else knows my techniques.
Elder Zhu placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder, his smile warm in the moonlit pavilion. "It''s more than an honor, Kai. It''s a testament to your dedication and innovative spirit. To recreate and enhance a possibly forgotten alchemical recipe is no small feat."
I felt embarrassment flooding my cheeks. This praise was too much!
"Elder Zhu, this accomplishment... it isn''t mine alone. Without the guidance of the Verdant Lotus Sect and your invaluable assistance tonight, I wouldn''t have come this far. I believe the credit should be shared with the sect. I''d like to offer the recipe to our archives and assist in any way I can with producing more of the spirit moss essence."
The head of the alchemy pavilion regarded me for a long moment, his expression a blend of admiration and contemplation. "Your generosity is commendable, Kai. Yet, you must remember that you are the creator of this hydrosol. It''s a significant contribution to the art of alchemy, and you shouldn''t part with your achievements so lightly."
I glanced at Windy and Tianyi, who, despite their inability to speak, seemed to be hanging on to every word of our conversation. "I understand, Elder, but my aim has always been to aid those around me. This hydrosol... I was inspired to create it partly because I saw how it could benefit our second-class disciples, like Feng Wu. They push themselves to the limit with conditioning drills, and if this concoction can help them heal faster without relying solely on healing pills, then I believe it''s worth sharing."
Elder Zhu''s gaze softened, the moonlight highlighting the thoughtful creases on his brow. "Your heart is in the right place, Kai. To repay grace and contribute to the betterment of our community is a noble path. If you insist on this course, then I will support you. But remember, the journey of an alchemist is also one of personal growth. Continue to innovate, to explore, and to expand the boundaries of what we know."
The encouragement in his words bolstered my resolve. "Thank you, Elder Zhu. I will. And I''ll make sure that whatever I create in the future, it will serve not just the Verdant Lotus Sect, but the wider cultivation world."
As the conversation drew to a close, the mixture before us continued to glow with a steady, turquoise light, a symbol of the night''s success.
"Now, I''ll have to get going. Let''s ensure everything is stored properly before we close the pavilion for the night."
Windy slithered up to my side, their curious gaze fixed on the glowing bowl, while Tianyi fluttered around, her light dance reflecting her own form of silent celebration.
The pavilion, bathed in the soft luminescence of the healing hydrosol, stood as a testament to the night''s work¡ªa blend of tradition and innovation, guided by the wisdom of the past and the boundless potential of the future.
As I packed away the equipment and stored the hydrosol in a small container, my thoughts lingered on the nameless figure that had helped me bring this recipe to life.
''Thank you, Heavenly Interface!''
A grin tugged at the corners of my mouth, not just from the success of tonight''s endeavor, but from the anticipation of what was to come. The completion of the hydrosol was only the beginning. With the formula perfected and its effects verified, the second phase of my plan could now commence. But before embarking on this new journey, there was one more step to complete¡ªthe formal closure of my chapter in the infirmary.
Bidding farewell to Elder Zhu, I took a deep breath and savored the fresh air.
The trek back to the infirmary was made in silence, the quiet of the night enveloping me like a cloak. Windy, having resumed their usual spot within the folds of my sleeve, seemed content with the night''s outcomes, their occasional flicker of movement a comforting presence. Tianyi, ever the vigilant guardian, danced around me, her light weaving through the darkness, guiding my steps.
Despite her disbelief, Doctor Fei Ni scolded me for the recklessness of testing an unproven concoction on myself and for prematurely removing the plaster. Yet, she couldn''t argue with the results. After insisting I stay the night for observation, she grudgingly admitted by morning that my recovery was indeed remarkable, and I was free to go. However, she wasn''t about to let me off easy.
"Before you leave, Kai, ensure all these books your friends have piled up here are returned to the library," she instructed, her tone brooking no argument.
I glanced at the two towering stacks of books on the bedside table, a veritable mountain of knowledge that had been my companions during the long hours of convalescence. "Doctor Fei Ni, you do realize you''re tasking someone who''s just recovered from arm injuries with quite a tall task, don''t you?" I joked, trying to lighten the mood.
Her response was a raised eyebrow, her expression unamused. "If you''re well enough to concoct alchemical miracles, I''m sure a few books won''t pose much of a challenge. Unless, of course, you''re not as healed as you claim, in which case..."
Her voice trailed off, but the message was clear.
With a resigned sigh and a smile, I carefully balanced the stacks of books in my arms, making sure not to strain my recently healed hand. Windy peeked out from my sleeve, their tongue flicking in what I interpreted as a silent chuckle at my predicament. Tianyi, fluttering above, seemed to share in Windy''s amusement, her light dance casting playful shadows on the walls.
With each step, the stacks of books swayed precariously, a balancing act that required all my focus. Windy and Tianyi, sensing the importance of the task at hand, flanked me on either side, as if they were ready to catch them in case they fell.
As I approached the library, the sight of the third-class disciple tasked with its upkeep brought a new wave of apprehension. I''ve heard from Li Na and Han Wei about him cussing them out for the sheer amount of books they borrowed and returned during my stint in the infirmary. He stared at me from afar. It seemed he wasn''t very happy to see me.
"Hail, esteemed keeper of tomes!" I announced with a grandiose wave. "Behold, I return with the sacred scrolls borrowed during my convalescence!"
The disciple, barely looking up from his ledger, replied dryly, "Just put them on the desk, please."
As I held back a few chosen texts, I added, "These few chronicles, imbued with the essence of ancient wisdom, shall remain by my side a while longer, to further illuminate the path of enlightenment."
The disciple shook his head, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. "Just bring them back when you''re done."
With a bow, I responded, "As the moon wanes only to wax anew, so too shall these volumes return, enriched by the journey. Until then, I bid thee farewell, guardian of knowledge."
If there''s one thing the third-class disciples don''t have, it''s poetic wisdom. There must be something in between those formative years between a third and second-class disciple that make them sound so wise.
Except for Lan Sheng. But he seems like the exception to the rule.
With the bulk of the books now safely returned, I made my way back to my guest quarters, the lighter load a welcome relief. Windy seemed amused by the whole ordeal, their movements more animated than usual. Tianyi, always the serene counterpart, hovered close, her glow a constant source of comfort.
"Alright, you two, back to the quarters for now. And please, try not to get into any mischief while I''m gone," I said with mock sternness. I channeled my inner Instructor Xia Ji for this moment.
Their silent acknowledgment was all the assurance I needed. As I left them in the safety of my quarters along with the books, I couldn''t help but feel a sense of excitement bubbling within me. If my sense of time was right, Advanced Herbology and Pill Concoction classes would be today. I was eager to dive back into the rhythms of sect life.
The familiarity of the classrooms, the scent of herbs, and the subtle energies of concoction processes welcomed me back like an old friend. Instructor Xiao-Hu, strict as ever, acknowledged my presence. My enthusiasm was palpable, fueling my participation and experimentation with a vigor that felt like making up for lost time.
But it was the training grounds that called to me as the day progressed. It was the testing grounds for my new concoction! Instructor Xia Ji, with her keen eye and no-nonsense approach, was overseeing the second-class disciples'' conditioning drills when I arrived.
The sight of them, focused and determined, rekindled a fire within me. Yet, as I scanned the ranks, Feng Wu and Lan Sheng were notably absent. "Must be caught up in their own tasks," I reasoned, understanding the ebb and flow of duties within the sect.
This, however, presented a golden opportunity¡ªthe key to the second phase of my plan. My time in the infirmary wasn''t just for recovery; it was also a period of intense study, particularly on the topic of conditioning drills. My newfound knowledge, coupled with the completion of the healing hydrosol, set the stage for what I hoped would be a significant contribution to our training methodologies.
Approaching Instructor Xia Ji, I maintained a respectful distance, mindful of interrupting her supervision. "Instructor, if it wouldn''t be too much of a bother, may I participate in the drills? I''ve been...eager to get back into the swing of things," I ventured, my voice laced with cautious optimism.
She cast a discerning glance my way, her seasoned eyes likely weighing my request against her knowledge of my recent injuries. After a moment''s contemplation, she nodded, the gesture firm yet not without a hint of warning. "Alright, Kai. But I expect you to know your limits. We can''t afford any setbacks in your recovery, especially with the Gauntlet coming up."
Gratitude washed over me, tempered by the gravity of her words. "Understood, Instructor. I''ll be careful," I assured her.
As I joined the line of disciples facing the conditioning poles, a ripple of curiosity passed through the ranks. I could feel their unspoken questions, their surprise at seeing me back so soon after being thrashed by the mountainous Ping Hai, but I kept my focus on the task at hand.
I started with my fists, striking the rugged surface of the pole with controlled precision. Each impact sent a jarring vibration up my arm, a stark reminder of the fine line I was walking. Yet, I masked any discomfort with a practiced ease, conscious that any sign of pain might betray my intentions.
I couldn''t use my qi. Despite my desire to, I refused. It defeated the purpose of the exercise, after all.
When I shifted to using my shins, the challenge intensified. The skin, still tender from my recent recovery, protested silently against the harsh contact. But again, I cloaked any hint of agony, the maroon fabric of my robes serving as an unwitting ally in concealing the reddening of my skin.
With every strike, I pushed the boundaries of endurance, channeling the pain into a silent testament to my resolve. The air, once a benign presence, now felt like a swarm of needles against my sensitized skin, each breath a reminder of the price of progress.
But I endured. I had to see it through.
As the session drew to a close, my body ached with a hundred silent protests, I made my way back to the guest quarters.
The door to my quarters creaked open, a welcome sight after the grueling session. The pain was a sharp, constant reminder of the day''s exertions, yet it was accompanied by a sense of accomplishment. The physical toll was tangible, but so was the potential for recovery, thanks to the hydrosol waiting within.
Tianyi and Windy greeted me as I entered, their presence a comforting balm to the day''s hardships. Tianyi, ever perceptive, fluttered closer, her glow intensifying as if ready to weave her healing magic around me. But today, her usual intervention wasn''t part of the plan.
"Not today, Tianyi," I said gently, preempting her well-intentioned care. "I''ve got a different kind of healing in mind." Her glow dimmed slightly in understanding, though she remained close, a silent sentinel.
Windy seemed to sense the gravity of the moment, their usual playful antics subdued. They watched, curious yet respectful, as I set about the next phase of my recovery.
With deliberate movements, I retrieved the healing hydrosol and a roll of gauze hand wraps from my bag. The preparation was methodical, each step a testament to the countless hours spent poring over texts and refining my understanding of healing and recovery.
Carefully, I began to wrap my hands, ensuring every inch of skin was covered, a protective barrier between the rawness of my wounds and the outside world. The gauze was snug but not constricting, a cocoon that promised relief and regeneration.
Once secured, I hesitated for a moment, steeling myself for the next step. Then, with a deep breath, I dipped my wrapped hands into the jar of hydrosol, immersing them fully. The liquid was cool, a stark contrast to the lingering heat of my exertions.
I held them there, counting the seconds, allowing the hydrosol to seep through the gauze and interact with my skin. The sensation was immediate and profound¡ªa cooling relief that seemed to penetrate to the very core of my injuries. It was as if the hydrosol was awakening the latent healing energies within, knitting together flesh and spirit in a silent, harmonious dance.
Next came my shins, the memories of their relentless contact with the conditioning poles still fresh. I soaked additional gauze in the hydrosol before carefully applying it to the tender areas, the fabric clinging to my skin, imbued with the promise of relief. The relief was palpable, a gentle easing of the tension that had built up over the course of the training.
With the treatment complete, I allowed myself a moment of respite, sinking onto the bed with a sigh. The pain hadn''t vanished, but its edges had softened, blurred by the hydrosol''s potent effects. It was a gamble, this unconventional approach to recovery, but one I felt compelled to take.
As I lay there, the quiet of the room enveloping me, my thoughts drifted to the possibilities that lay ahead. The hydrosol had already proven its worth, but its true potential was yet to be fully realized. If today''s experiment bore fruit, it could mark the beginning of a new era in cultivation and healing, not just for me but for the entire sect.
For now, though, rest was paramount. The healing process, both physical and spiritual, required time and patience. I contemplated for a moment whether I should use my Memory Palace technique to review and go over what I had learned, but I think my mind craved some actual rest, for once in my life.
Tomorrow would come soon enough, but for now, the world could wait.
76. Beneath Windy Skies, Resolve Takes Flight
I perched silently, my gaze fixed on Kai. From my vantage point among the whispering leaves, I observed him with a blend of concern and curiosity. My comrade stood alone outside his resting area, his fist repeatedly colliding with the sturdy bark of an aged tree as the moonlight waned overhead.
His hand, swathed in a white material called gauze, bore the marks of his exertion; once pristine, it now bore the stains of toil and blood.
Fluttering closer, I was drawn by an inexplicable need to understand his actions.
To an untrained eye, it might seem a dance of folly, a deliberate pursuit of pain. The tree, an unwitting participant in his ritual, stood resolute, its bark etched with the story of his determination.
But I knew there was a purpose to it. There always was.
The sun rose and fell multiple times since he embarked on this journey, refusing my attempts at giving him qi, using that sweet-smelling nectar that glowed like my wings. Every night after he finished, he held the "staff" made by his fellow comrade from home while in a meditative position.
I could tell it was important, so I refrained from bothering him. I had more of that so-called "lychee wine" to dine on while he worked diligently.
Of course, I secretly healed him during his sleep, but it was a secret I wouldn''t reveal till the very end of my days.
I watched, a silent guardian, as the skin around Kai''s fists transformed. Where once there was softness, now lay a landscape rugged and unyielding, akin to the very tree he challenged with his might. The texture, rough and calloused, bore testament to his discipline, a contrast to the delicate touch he possessed when tending to plants of our garden.
His strikes, initially marred by winces of pain and stifled groans, eventually turned into a silent storm of speed and precision.
This transformation was not lost on me. In Kai''s silent perseverance, I found a lesson etched deep within the heart of pain and endurance. It was a realization that dawned quietly, like the first light of dawn creeping over the horizon, illuminating the path to growth and strength.
Just when I thought I had the human figured out, he seems to show me more and more.
The sight stirred something within me, a whisper of discontent at my own limitations. Fragile, ephemeral, my existence was a stark contrast to Kai''s burgeoning fortitude. Bound by my form, I lamented the fragility of my being, the delicate wings that carried me, beautiful yet so easily marred.
If only I had appendages like his, perhaps I could''ve been an even greater help in the battle against those scaly serpents. Those of Windy''s ilk. Remembering Kai''s form, between the border of life and death, shook me to my very core.
Had it not been for the powerful immortals supporting us, would we have survived? It was only through luck that I managed to land a blow against one of those monstrous, wind-whipping serpents. Had my wings met with their hardened scales, I don''t think there was any room for doubt what would''ve happened.
Never. I''d never let myself be so useless ever again.
Inspired by Kai''s silent testament, I resolved to push beyond the confines of my nature. With a heart buoyed by newfound determination, I channeled qi into the gossamer threads of my wings, feeling the familiar surge of energy coursing through me, lending strength and sharpness to my delicate form.
I turned my attention to an orange leaf, caught in the gentle embrace of the breeze, its descent a dance of serenity and grace. With a focused burst of speed, I blurred from sight, my wings slicing through the air with precision. The leaf, bisected by my passage, fluttered to the ground in silent testimony to my resolve.
Emboldened, I faced a tree. I approached, my wings humming with qi, and struck. A faint mark, barely a whisper against the rugged surface, was all I managed, yet it was a start. My wings recoiled from the impact, the shockwave a stark reminder of the tree''s unyielding nature and my own fragility.
But I did not falter. Drawing deep from the wellspring of determination Kai had unknowingly bestowed upon me, I pressed on. Strike after strike, I honed my technique, each attempt a step on the path Kai had unwittingly laid before me.
From my secluded perch amidst the verdant canopy, my attention momentarily drifted from his relentless training to a familiar presence lurking overhead.
Windy, our serpentine companion, was nestled comfortably on a branch, its white scales with a subtle blue hue shimmering softly in the moonlight that filtered through the leaves. I couldn''t help but notice the slight bulge in Windy''s stomach, a telltale sign of a recent hunt. It filled me with a sense of relief and pride to see the hatchling thriving, growing stronger and more formidable with each passing day.
Despite the initial trepidation I felt towards Windy, stemming from the harrowing memories of the battle in Qingmu, my heart had since warmed to the little hatchling.
I saw in Windy not the shadow of its kin but a sibling, a companion in our shared journey within Kai''s nurturing embrace. The thought of Windy''s presence in our garden, deterring the pests that sought to ravage our carefully tended plants, brought a flutter of joy to my heart. Although it seemed the little hatchling never considered Kai a friend in the same way I did, I had no doubt the relationship would only grow deeper and deeper with time.
Windy''s gaze, curious and observant, alternated between Kai and me, seemingly intrigued by our respective training rituals. I couldn''t help but be amused at Windy''s expression, a blend of interest and a hint of the laziness that was characteristic of the hatchling.
Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
Despite its natural predisposition as a predator, Windy often preferred the comfort of a good nap or the satisfaction of a hearty meal over the rigors of training.
Yet, in this moment, something seemed to have sparked within Windy. With tentative determination, the hatchling attempted to replicate our actions, striking at a nearby tree with its tail. The motion was uncharacteristic, a departure from its innate hunting instincts, and it showed in the clumsiness of the attempt.
Moved by Windy''s effort, I sought to bridge the gap between us, to offer guidance in the absence of a shared language. I flew over in a smooth arc, doing it discreetly so as to not distract Kai training down below.
I demonstrated the way I channeled qi into my wings, hoping to convey the concept of focusing energy into a precise point. The energy coursed through the intricate design along my It was a complex lesson, one I anticipated would take time for Windy to grasp fully.
The hatchling tilted its head. I knew it held considerable power under those shimmering scales, but to use it was an entirely different matter. But I knew they could do it.
It took a near-death experience against one of my most feared foes to learn how to infuse qi into my wings in the same way Kai and other immortals did. It wasn''t something that could be done easily.
Training, true training, required time, patience, and often, a touch of desperation. I watched Windy, expecting it to struggle, to falter, and learn from the arduous process just as I had. A lesson in humility, perhaps, a spark to ignite the latent potential I knew slumbered within its serpentine form. Till then, I would-
CRUNCH
The sound of wood being splintered alerted me, pulling my attention back with swiftness. Mid-flight, I pivoted, my gaze scanning the surroundings for the source of the disturbance.
And there was Windy, its presence unmistakable against the backdrop of the forest''s deep greens and browns. The hatchling''s tail, once a mere extension of its curious, playful self, now stood raised like a banner of triumph, emanating a soft, ethereal blue glow. The unmistakable aura of qi.
But it was the mark on the tree bark that truly caught my attention¡ªa clear, undeniable gouge made by Windy''s tail. Not just a scratch, but a mark of significant depth.
For a moment, I hovered in stunned silence, my mind grappling with the reality before me. Windy, the hatchling, had achieved what I had deemed a distant goal in mere moments.
The realization brought with it a cascade of emotions¡ªpride, for the undeniable progress Windy had made; wonder, at the ease with which it had adapted a technique so foreign to its natural instincts; and, lurking beneath the surface, something else. It was...unpleasant.
The hatchling''s gaze met mine, a silent question in its eyes. Was it seeking approval, or perhaps validation of its achievement? In response, I allowed my own light to brighten, a silent nod of recognition and encouragement.
Yes, Windy, you''ve done well.
I fluttered away, a sense of unease lingered, a shadow cast over the glow of their achievement. It was an unfamiliar sensation, gnawing at the edges of my consciousness, demanding attention. I flew further away, just at the edge of the forest''s perimeter and away from Kai or Windy''s sight.
The whispering leaves seemed to echo the tumult within me. I sought solitude, a quiet corner of the forest where I could unravel the knot of emotions that had ensnared me.
Alone, with only the gentle rustle of the forest for company, I allowed the feelings to surface, to take shape in the clarity of my thoughts. The memory of Kai''s voice came unbidden, a conversation from days past when he spoke of his own struggles, of the daunting task of catching up to the immortals who walked the halls of the Verdant Lotus sect.
''Ah, Li Na and Han Wei are too strong! I''m so-''
Jealous. Yes, that was the word, foreign and yet so fitting. It described the turmoil within me. It was jealousy that had tainted the pride I felt for Windy''s success, jealousy that whispered of my own limitations in comparison.
In the quiet of the forest, I contemplated my path.
Windy, with its innate hunter''s prowess, had adapted and overcome, finding strength in its nature. Kai, ever determined, pushed past the pain and limitations, seeking growth through perseverance. Day by day, he grew more unfathomable. Stronger, faster, smarter...No matter what, he always found some way to improve.
And I? Where did my path lead?
I couldn''t shake the feeling, the unsettling realization that my role might always be that of support, watching from the sidelines as Kai and Windy took center stage in the battles that lay ahead. If one day, there came a time when I could no longer protect the garden...The thought was a thorn in my side, a constant reminder of what I perceived to be my own inadequacies.
Jealousy, though a bitter companion, also held a mirror to my desires, to the aspirations that soared as high as my flights. I knew my healing powers were potent, invaluable even, yet the idea of being relegated to the background, to merely watch as others fought and struggled, was disheartening.
I gazed down at my delicate form, at the wings that had carried me through countless trials, yet seemed so fragile in the grand scheme of things. A single misstep, a moment of inattention, could spell my demise. The thought was sobering, a stark reminder of the limitations I was born with.
CRACK!
As I grappled with the storm of thoughts swirling within me, my contemplation was abruptly shattered by a triumphant roar that echoed through the forest. My gaze snapped towards the source, finding Kai standing before a tree, its trunk bearing the testament of his relentless assault. His fists, wrapped in tattered gauze, dripped with crimson. His face was dripping with sweat, marred with dirt and exhaustion. But his smile was as bright as the stars in the sky.
With a flourish that belied his evident pain, Kai threw back his head and proclaimed with exaggerated grandeur, pointing at the damaged tree. "You have met your match this day! By the unwavering might of my fists and the indomitable spirit of my will, I have bested thee in honorable combat!"
He struck an odd pose, with one foot off the ground and both his hands raised up to the sky. "Let it be known across the realm that not even the stoic guardians of nature can withstand the tempest of my resolve!"
Yet, no sooner had the words left his mouth, a grimace of pain contorted his features, a stark reminder of the physical toll his victory had exacted. "Ah, but let it also be recorded that the path to glory is fraught with trials most... ouch, arduous! I should call it a day," he added, wincing as he gingerly inspected his battered hands, the humor in his tone not quite enough to mask the underlying agony.
Despite the gravity of my earlier reflections, I couldn''t help but be drawn into the moment. It was moments like these, where the weight of our journey seemed to lift ever so slightly.
As I watched him laugh off the pain with a bravado that was quintessentially Kai, I felt a renewed sense of purpose stir within me.
Kai''s words echoed in my mind once more, a beacon in the darkness of my doubts. He spoke of defying the heavens, of challenging the natural order to carve out one''s own path. It was a sentiment that resonated with me now more than ever.
I didn''t want to be just a ''delicate butterfly,'' admired for my beauty but underestimated for my strength. I wanted more. I wanted to defy the constraints of my form, to push beyond the boundaries that nature had set for me.
With renewed determination, I channeled my qi to its utmost limits, feeling the energy surge through my veins with an intensity I had never dared to reach before. My wings, a blur of motion, became honed edges of pure force, refined and sharper than they had ever been.
I turned my attention to the base of a nearby tree trunk, a silent witness to my inner turmoil. With a burst of speed and precision, I struck, my wings cutting through the air with a force that belied my delicate appearance.
The impact was jarring, a testament to the power I had unleashed. A gouge, as deep as my own wingspan, marred the tree''s surface, a physical manifestation of my resolve.
In that moment, I solidified my determination to overcome my body''s limitations, to rise above the preconceived notions of what I was capable of. I would not be confined by my form, nor would I settle for a role that did not satisfy the fire that burned within me.
I was Tianyi, a being of light and grace, but also of strength and resolve. I would forge my own path, one that would see me stand shoulder to shoulder with Kai and Windy, not as a mere support, but as a force to be reckoned with.
The forest around me seemed to acknowledge my resolve, the rustling leaves and whispering winds a chorus of encouragement. I knew the journey ahead would be fraught with challenges, but I also knew that I was no longer the same creature that had once doubted her place in this world.
The Interface brought itself back to my attention once more.
With a heart full of purpose and wings ready to defy the heavens, I soared into the sky, embracing the unknown with a spirit that refused to be caged. The path ahead was mine to shape, and I would do so with every beat of my wings, every drop of my qi.
And so, I flew on, towards a future where I was more than just a delicate butterfly, towards a destiny that I would carve with my own two wings.
77. Steel Will, Iron Fists
I stood outside my quarters under the fading moonlight, my fists repeatedly meeting the rough bark of a chosen tree. The notification came, and with it, immense satisfaction.
Recovering from my injuries had been a turning point. I vowed never to allow a day to pass without pushing my physical limits further.
Despite the exhaustion, despite the bone-deep fatigue, I persisted. Each night, I bathed my wounds in the hydrosol, feeling the essence of my being knit tighter, more resilient than before.
In the beginning, under Instructor Xia Ji''s watchful eye, I had thrown myself into the optional, yet brutal, regimen of body tempering. Many of the disciples scratched their heads. Unlike Li Na and Han Wei, who prioritized qi cultivation for its painlessness, I saw the untapped potential in physical conditioning¡ªa path fraught with agony but would be key to both martial and alchemy greatness.
I delved into ancient manuals, absorbing their knowledge on exercises designed to fortify every part of me. Accelerated Reading made it a breeze, and I became well-educated on the topic. However, it would be some time until I could utilize some of the exercises for other parts of my body.
Asking my friends to hit me would spread some unwanted rumors.
These texts reiterated a core principle: our bodies adapted under duress. With the aid of my hydrosol, I was accelerating this natural process, pushing my physical boundaries without fear of overextension.
But the journey was grueling. The initial days were a blur of pain, a test of my endurance that seeped into my very dreams. Yet, as I persevered, I noticed a transformation. The pain subsided, my mind acclimated to the discomfort, allowing me to channel my full potential into each strike.
It was as though the part of brain that limited itself from putting all mt power behind a strike was slowly being conditioned, recognizing that my body was capable of withstanding the force.
I had thought it was a matter of lack of training, but in terms of level, me and Li Na weren''t very far apart. It''s just her previous years of training allowed her to generate much more force without reservation, despite being at similar strength levels.
Transitioning my training outdoors, I selected a tree within the sect''s diverse forest carefully, avoiding those that would shatter my resolve along with my hand. Even after selecting a moderately strong tree with some give to it, the ordeal was excruciating. Each punch was a battle against the tree''s unyielding bark, followed by nights wrapped in hydrosol-soaked gauze. This cycle of pain and recovery propelled me forward. Within two weeks, I ascended two levels in the Mortal Realm, a testament to my evolving resilience. My body, once a secondary concern, was swiftly catching up to my mind and qi. I had been neglecting it for too long.
"I want harmony! Kai Liu will have no weak points!" I declared to myself, even as I realized the increasing demands of my training on my hydrosol reserves. The necessity of consistency in partial training clashed with the practical limits of my resources, yet I refused to relent.
The hardest part about all oof this, was willingly pushing myself to the next level. I knew that if my body conditoning was comfortable or easy, it meant I wasn''t going hard enough. it was tantamount to self-harm. No wonder the people of Gentle Wind Village thought I was crazy for wanting to be a cultivator. They probably thought all we did was something like this.
"Huff! Huff! Alright, that''s enough for today," I sighed, my fist resting against the tree''s battered bark. "Tianyi! Windy! Let''s go!"
The hatchling slithered down obediently, and Tianyi glided over, perching herself atop my shoulder. Their recent behavior intrigued me; had they been copying me? I''ve been noticing gouges and cuts along the trees and branches around the guest quarters, and unless some errant beast was leaving them in it''s wake, I could think of only two culprits that could recreate those markings.
I was so proud! The two would be the first students of the Kai Liu school of martial arts!
Returning to the quarters, I shed my sweat-stained robes and settled down with the iron staff for a session of essence extraction practice. This practice, aimed at attuning to metal''s core without extracting, was a crucial step in understanding how to apply my Essence Extraction skill beyond the realm of flora.
''Place your hand upon a piece of metal and attempt to sense its core. Do not extract. Instead, attune yourself. Feel its solidity, its weight, and its resistance.''
Master Li Tao''s journal had been my guide, emphasizing the need for a fortified will through meditation and visualization. The adversity endured in partial training was sharpening my will, preparing me to break through the metaphorical wall that stood between me and mastery over metal essence. The weight of the iron staff was still there, it was rigid, unyielding, much like I anticipated.
Training everyday, sharpening my will, and practicing essence extraction allowed me a form of mental resilience I didn''t have before. Bit by bit, day by day, I could feel the metal finally giving in to my incessant demands, although I never got close enough to extract it.
But today was the day. With my body having reached the fourth rank of the Mortal Realm, I had the fortitude to withstand it!
''The will is a tool when dealing with metal. Strengthen yours. Sit in meditation, envisioning a wall. With each breath, see this wall become taller, thicker, and more impregnable. Your will must be strong enough to climb and then break down this wall.''
As both my mind and body were tempered by trials, I felt a newfound clarity in my pursuit of will''s essence. The pain, once a formidable adversary, had become a catalyst for my growth.Finding a receptive spot on the iron staff, I concentrated deeply, extending my senses to probe its dense, metallic essence. The area between my palm and the metal became a battlefield of wills¡ªmine against the inherent nature of the staff that Wang Jun forged. The initial touch was a shock, a cold, unyielding resistance that seemed to repel my mental grasp. Yet, I persevered, my focus sharpening as I pushed against the metallic essence with all the mental strength I had honed through my training. The task was daunting, like trying to bend a river''s flow with sheer force of will.
A migraine burgeoned within the confines of my skull, its tendrils of pain weaving through my consciousness. But pain and I were sworn brothers by this point; it had become the forge upon which my resolve was tempered. I gritted my teeth, refusing to relent, letting the discomfort wash over me without breaking my concentration.
This was the essence of mental battle¡ªa fight not against an external foe but against the limitations of one''s own mind and body. The staff remained obstinate, a mountain refusing to bow before the storm.
But even the strongest of boulders are eroded by drops of water. It wasn''t a matter of if, but when.
Slowly, almost imperceptibly, the resistance began to wane. My will, a constant pressure against the metal''s essence, started to make inroads. It was as if I were chiseling away at an immense wall, each effort making the slightest of marks.
Stolen novel; please report.
Then, breakthrough.
A shift in the staff''s essence signaled my success. It was as if I had reached the heart of the metal, touching its core for the very first time. The migraine intensified, a price I was willing to pay for this moment of connection. I steadied my breathing, focusing on the task at hand, channeling my will to mold the essence into something tangible, something I could grasp and understand.
The battle raged within me, a tempest of will against the innate stubbornness of metal.
With a final, concerted effort, I pushed through the remaining resistance. The essence of the metal yielded, bending to my will. It was a sensation unlike any I had experienced¡ªa melding of spirit and matter, a fusion of will and metal.
Slowly but steadily, a silvery-grey essence poured from the point where my hand and the staff met. It felt like I was pulling on a string right at the base of my palm, trying to uproot a tree with only the force of my arm.
The veins along my hand bulged in exertion. Almost. THERE!
"H-" I coughed and saw droplets of blood splatter onto the pristine wood. I steadied myself before I could fall, dropping the staff to the floor. I glanced down at my hand, admiring the pearlescent ball of energy circulating within my hand, looking like liquid metal and casting a dim white light over the room.
I had done it.
"Crap, my nose is bleeding." I murmured, looking for a vial to place the extracted metal essence in. grabbing one of the smooth, glass bottles nearby, I carefully placed it inside before ripping out gauze and plugging it into my nostrils.
I looked at the new Perk. So now, along with Interface Manipulator, that meant I had two of them. It seemed like they didn''t give me any explicit abilities, but I could tell they were powerful and much harder to come by than skills. Judging by it''s description, it meant I''d have an even easier time evolving skills like I did with Essence Extraction! I mentally commanded the skill description for Essence Extraction to come up, and see if anything had changed.
As I recalled Master Li Tao''s journal, my thoughts lingered on the application of metal essences in alchemy. These rare essences were traditionally used to imbue pills and elixirs with the properties of the metal, enhancing their effectiveness and granting unique attributes. Although not commonly used due to the complexity and risks involved, I was convinced of the potential benefits it could offer.
With Wang Jun''s staff in hand, I observed its form, feeling its weight and texture. It seemed lighter than before, and upon closer inspection, I noticed it had become hollow and lost its original sheen.
Oops.
A wave of guilt washed over me as I realized my actions might have compromised it forever. It seemed very brittle now, and I feared if I struck it against a sufficiently hard surface it''d probably shatter like glass.
My heart sank at the thought of Wang Jun''s disappointment. He had crafted this staff with skill and care, and in my zealous pursuit of essence extraction, I may have rendered his work nearly useless. He definitely wouldn''t be making me anything free, that''s for sure.
Despite the setback, the revelation of the staff''s change spurred a new understanding within me. The extraction process not only pulled the essence from the metal but also altered its physical state, a detail I had not fully considered. Perhaps I should''ve learned to do it on something more expendable, and purchased a mineral or ore down in Crescent Bay City.
The guilt I felt was a heavy burden, but it was tempered by the lessons learned. For now, though, I needed to address the immediate consequence of my actions. Holding the altered staff, I contemplated my next steps.
"What now?" I wondered, feeling the weight of my choices. With a technique token, and several skills to focus on, the options felt overwhelming. Should I dive deeper into essence extraction, and figure out how to extract from beast cores? Or maybe my Accelerated Reading skill? What about the Memory Palace technique? I hadn''t even figured out the Spiritual Plant Cultivation technique''s full potential yet, because I had no clue on how to start with introducing new properties into plants like the skill description said.
Then there was my classes; Alchemy Array was getting easier to learn thanks to Accelerated Reading, but still-
The possibilities swirled in my mind like leaves in a whirlwind. Each path seemed enticing, promising its own rewards and challenges. But the more I thought about it, the more I felt tangled in a web of indecision.
Taking a deep breath, I realized I needed to step back and approach this the way I handled other complex problems: by seeking guidance. It hit me then; I wasn''t alone in this journey. I had friends, mentors, and companions who had supported me this far. Why not lean on them now?
"Tianyi, Windy, what do you think?" I mused aloud, half-expecting an answer from my silent companions. Of course, they couldn''t provide the solutions I sought, but just voicing my thoughts helped clear my mind.
I decided then to consult those who had been my pillars throughout my cultivation journey. Instructor Xiao-Hu, with his stern yet wise teachings; Li Na and Han Wei, whose camaraderie and insights had often guided me; and even the serene presence of Elder Zhu, whose subtle nudges had steered me in the right direction more than once. Feng Wu, the one who started it all; he''d always find a way to insert some profound quotes whenever we talked.
...And Lan Sheng, I suppose. But maybe I can leave him alone for now.
With a newfound sense of direction, I felt the overwhelming anxiety recede. My path forward wasn''t about choosing the perfect skill or technique at this moment. It was about continuing to grow, learn, and, most importantly, embrace the journey with the people who made it meaningful.
"I''ll see what they have to say tomorrow. It''s getting late."
One step at a time.
"You know I''m¡ªwe, aren''t really good at all that alchemy, herbalism mumbo-jumbo."
I couldn''t suppress an eye roll, earning a giggle from Li Na. "I know you aren''t, but I need some advice here. I''ve got too many paths to choose from, and it''s just too much sometimes."
Li Na, always the more thoughtful one, said, "Being overwhelmed is a sign of your talent, Kai. You''ve got potential in so many areas, it''s impressive."
Her words were kind, but they didn''t ease the knot of confusion in my gut. "Yeah, I get that, but it¡¯s like standing at a crossroads with too many directions. Should I play to my strengths or patch up my weaknesses? Any wisdom would be great right now," I said, reaching for another serving of tofu. The hydrosol had been a hunger machine, making me eat like a beast and yet slimming down as if I was on some intense workout regime. Stress eating, perhaps?
Han Wei, munching thoughtfully, finally offered, "Kai, sometimes it¡¯s not about choosing one path. Maybe you need a balance. Play to your strengths but don''t ignore your weaknesses. It¡¯s like training¡ªbalance is key."
Li Na nodded in agreement, adding, "And don''t rush. You''ve got time to explore each path and see which one feels right. Trust your instincts."
Their words, while differing slightly, both made sense. Balance and patience, huh? As I pondered over my crispy tofu, their advice echoed in my mind. Maybe I was trying too hard to find a clear answer when I should be letting the journey guide me.
Grateful for their insights, I thanked Li Na and Han Wei before clearing my dishes. Their advice lingered in my mind as I made my way to Instructor Xiao-Hu''s office. I had rarely sought him out personally, partly due to his stern demeanor and partly because of his known disapproval of my past recklessness with the Silent Moon. Yet, I knew he wasn''t a bad person. He was probably one of the best people I could go to aside from Elder Zhu. Perhaps he could give me some clarity on my situation, to just tell it to me without sugarcoating his words.
Approaching his office felt suffocating, but perhaps it was all in my head. Instructor Xiao-Hu, with his ever-present stern expression, looked up from a pile of scrolls as I entered. "Kai Liu, this is unusual. What brings you here outside of regular class hours?" he inquired, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity beneath its usual severity.
I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts. "Instructor, I''ve been facing some... challenges, in prioritizing my learning paths and development. I''ve got options, maybe too many, and it''s a bit overwhelming," I confessed, trying to articulate the maelstrom of uncertainty I felt.
Instructor Xiao-Hu listened intently, his gaze never wavering as I spoke. When I finished, he leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers in contemplation. "In alchemy, and indeed in all aspects of cultivation, it is essential to solidify your groundwork before expanding. This ensures a stable and comprehensive development in your practice," he stated, echoing his methodical approach to teaching and practice.
"Kai, while your skill in herbalism and your unique ability in Essence Extraction are commendable, have you considered whether you could surpass Elder Zhu or myself in concocting a superior pill or elixir?"
The question caught me off guard. "Well, no," I admitted, feeling somewhat deflated. "I mean, your experience and mastery in alchemy are beyond what I''ve managed to achieve so far."
He nodded, an unspoken acknowledgment of the reality we both understood. "Experience and skill, honed over years of dedicated practice, give us an advantage. Our knowledge in alchemy allows us to craft concoctions with precision and efficacy that stand the test of time. While you have a remarkable talent, Kai, it is the depth of understanding and the mastery of fundamentals that truly empower an alchemist."
His words resonated deeply, grounding my swirling thoughts. I bowed deeply, gratitude filling me. "Thank you, Instructor Xiao-Hu. I appreciate everything you and the sect has done for me all this time."
Instructor Xiao-Hu merely nodded, his stern facade softening slightly. "It is my duty to guide the next generation. You possess a level of insight and maturity rare for your age. Continue on this path, and you will undoubtedly achieve great things in your cultivation journey."
Exiting the alchemy pavilion, I felt a clarity I hadn''t realized I was missing. Instructor Xiao-Hu''s advice, though stark, had cut through the noise of my ambitions.
Our little chat had hit home. No heaven-defying shortcuts in this game; it was all about grinding through the alchemy textbooks and getting my hands dirty, literally. And that was just the way I liked it. It''s how I did things my whole life.
Strolling back, the crisp autumn air felt like a slap of cold water, sobering and strangely refreshing. My brain had been doing mental gymnastics over every possible path, but now, I had more confidence in what I needed to do.
Striding forward, a grin cracked my face, realizing I''d been like a cultivator at a rare herb auction with only one bid to place. Xiao-Hu¡¯s wisdom hit home: it was time to quit circling the auction block and claim my prize¡ªspiritually speaking, that is.
Day and night passed, once again. And before I knew it, the time for the Gauntlet had arrived.
78. In the City
It was getting cold now. The air had a biting chill to it, and I let out cold puffs of mist with every breath. I wouldn''t be surprised if it began snowing anytime soon.
Crescent Bay City was as busy as ever. It seemed as though everybody was outside despite the cold weather.
"I''ll just bring the horses over to a stable," Feng Wu said to me. "Do you feel ready?"
He was wearing a padded cloth cloak with the unmistakable green hue that represented the Verdant Lotus sect. With the weather getting chillier day by day, it was no surprise. I had my own in the carriage, although I didn''t really need it for now. The silk robe I had purchased was quite good at staving off the cold as is.
I snorted. "Does a tiger become anxious before a hunt?"
He shook his head with a small laugh, pulling gently at the harness to guide the steeds past the bustling alleys. "I don''t know where you learned all these quotes with that busy schedule of yours..."
"A lot of reading, my friend. Lots of reading."
Accelerated Reading helped me compress my time studying to a fraction of what it used to be, so I spent what little free time reading other novels that the sect library had to offer.
But despite my joke, I did feel apprehensive. The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet was here. It''s where the fruits of my labors would be put on display. In front of an audience, likely numbering in the hundreds or thousands...
"It looks like its quite busy. While I go to the stable, would you mind grabbing a seat at one of the restaurants?"
"Sure, does the Spirited Noodle sound good?"
"Alright, I''ll see you there."
I diverted from Feng Wu in search of the restaurant, the first one I ever came to when I arrived here at the capital city. It felt like a lifetime ago, but in reality it''s only been a few months. Although I had no doubt it''d be a volatile atmosphere, the noodles were just too good to pass up on. I''d consider it a treat for how hard I trained.
"Come to think of it, you ran out of lychee wine, didn''t you?"
I raised the cage in my hand, where Tianyi rested peacefully. It was a simple contraption I had custom-made just for her, so I could bring her around in a discrete manner without having her fly about. Of course, if she really wanted to, she could slip through the space between the metal, it wasn''t meant to keep her trapped. The only reason she stayed inside was because I asked her politely.
An outpour of desire flooded our connection once I mentioned the word ''wine''. it was quite concerning, the rate at which she consumed alcohol. The amount I brought her was dozens of times her body weight, and was supposed to last at least a few months. Where was she putting all this?
"Hiss..."
I snuck a peek in my other sleeve. In all his glory, Windy was wrapped carefully around my entire arm. Finding out his gender was quite a surprise. Judging by how pretty Windy had been, I was fully convinced they''d be a girl.
He was getting really heavy nowadays, and I had to make sure to swap his placement on both arms so there wouldn''t be an imbalance. I suppose it was motivation to keep getting stronger.
''I think at some point it''ll be impossible though,'' I mentioned internally.
Eventually, Windy would become the size of his parents, enough to swallow a cow whole. He wouldn''t be wrapped around my limb, I''d be wrapped around him instead.
For now, I''d enjoy the sensation of carrying him. It was bittersweet, seeing your children grow up so quickly. Soon they''d be in their rebellious phase, and maybe even leave the house to start their own life! The thought brought a tear to my eye.
I sighed, continuing through the bustling crowds. Spirited Noodle was just up ahead. From the looks of it, quite busy.
Securing a table was my mission, and as I stepped into the restaurant, the savory aroma of broth and spices hit me, momentarily distracting me from the task at hand. It was just as crowded as I heard.
A server came up; a teen with black hair and tired eyes. I raised my fingers to indicate I wanted a seat for two. He nodded, surveying the restaurant once more before speaking to me.
"It''ll be ten more minutes before you can be seated. Will that be alright?"
I nodded. "Yes, I''m fine with that."
They guided me over to a waiting area, already packed with people. Some were martial artists, by the looks of it. They held themselves in a distinct manner, and wore beige and grey attire emblazoned with a large emblem on the back.
Narrow Stone Peak, eh?
I faintly recalled the sect. They weren''t situated near Crescent Bay City, if the textbook I read was accurate. They were nowhere near as famous as the Silent Moon or Verdant Lotus, however.
''They seem strong though,'' I remarked, seeing the subtle outlines of muscle along their robes. Judging by their lack of weapons, they were fist fighters. The fists in question were calloused and worn.
All the seats were taken, so I stood at the furthest point while I waited patiently. It didn''t matter too much, this would give time for Feng Wu to finish putting the horses away.
Resting my shoulder along the wall, I thought back on what I needed to do. Buying souvenirs for everyone back home was paramount. What''s something I could get here that wasn''t available back home?
New books for Elder Ming, that was a given. He''s probably reread every text in the village, front and back. Maybe some more of Liang Feng''s works?
This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
Perhaps some alcohol for Master Qiang, a calligraphy set for Wang Jun, and some new ceramics for Lan-Yin! For the other villagers, maybe some sort of clothing. I''ll look at what the Azure Silk Trading Company has to offer. Since I get a discount with them, that''s where I should start my search.
I couldn''t wait to see their reaction, both to my growth and Windy. I think I grew talle-
"Please follow me to your seat," My thoughts were interrupted by the same server, and I got up to follow him.
A loud voice cut through the din of the restaurant. "Hey, why''s he getting a table before us? We''ve been waiting longer!" The burly man from Narrow Stone Peak, flanked by four others, stood up.
Great. Just what I needed.
I turned, facing the group. My initial urge was to retort, to stand my ground, but the looming Gauntlet whispered caution in my mind.
"Is there a way to accommodate them first?" I asked the server, aiming to defuse the situation before it escalated.
The server, a young man with an apologetic look, glanced between me and the imposing group from Narrow Stone Peak. "I''m sorry, but we only had a small table for two open up. A group of five would have to wait for a larger space," he explained, his voice steady despite the tension. Although he maintained a strong front, I could see a bead of sweat running down his forehead.
I faced the Narrow Stone men, trying to keep the peace. "Looks like you''ll have to wait your turn," I said, hoping reason would prevail.
But reason, it seemed, was not a guest at their table today. The largest of the lot, a burly man with a sneer, stepped closer, his eyes narrowing. "We''re the Five Fists of Narrow Stone Peak," he growled, attempting to tower over me. "We don¡¯t wait."
Weren''t they completely fine waiting just before all this? Why did they take it as an issue once I came up?
I felt a surge of defiance but quelled it, mindful of the bigger picture. However, when he reached out, likely to shove or intimidate, I reacted instinctively. My hand shot out, gripping his wrist. He attempted to shake free, and I let go only after a moment.
That was close. He almost touched the spot where Windy was hiding.
Their annoyance turned to anger, and they started to posture, the lead thug flexing his free hand. "You think you''re tough, huh? Let''s see if your pet is as tough as you," he sneered, eyeing Tianyi''s cage with malicious intent. My jaw clenched in anger.
But before I could act, something sinister poured into my mind. I glanced down at the butterfly in the cage, and saw a subtle blue glow encapsulating the ''pet'' in question''s wings. I realized the malevolent emotions coming from our telepathic link.
Killing intent. Rage.
My heart raced, panic edging in as I envisioned the chaos if Tianyi or Windy were provoked. The Narrow Stone Peak disciples were strong, sure, but I''ve seen Tianyi gouge out a Wind Serpent''s eye. Windy''s tail twitched ominously beneath my sleeve. I couldn''t handle the aftermath of this! I''d be held responsible for murder at this point! The thought of being thrown into a prison pervaded my vision.
Just as the situation teetered on the brink of violence, a cold, authoritative voice sliced through the tension. "Is there a problem here?" Feng Wu had arrived, his presence like a sudden drop in temperature.
They turned around, glaring at the voice behind them. Recognition flickered in their eyes, roaming the green coat he wore, and the small insignia emblazoned on it.
The Five Fists hesitated, their bravado crumbling under Feng Wu''s icy stare. He approached steadily, almost freezing them in place. "No problem, just a misunderstanding," the leader mumbled, motioning his group to back down.
"Truly?" Feng Wu kept a small smile on his face, albeit a frosty one that didn''t quite reach his eyes. "That''s good. Because had the situation been what it looked like, I''d have to arrange a visit to the Narrow Stone Peak and ask just why their disciples are harassing the Verdant Lotus sect''s guest."
The leader paled, muttering something incomprehensible before leaving the noodle shop in a hurry.
I exhaled slowly, feeling Windy relax and Tianyi¡¯s killing intent subside.
The server, visibly relieved, hurried to lead us to our table, offering thanks with a bow. As we settled into our seats, I couldn''t help but feel a twinge of gratitude for the second-class disciple''s timely intervention.
Once we had our menus, and had Tianyi settled on the table, I looked at him and grinned. "This young master thanks thee, oh mighty protector of the Verdant Lotus sect, for thy timely intervention and saving us from the unruly hands of the Narrow Stone Peak," I said, laying it on thickly.
The black-haired man chuckled, shaking his head. "Those Narrow Stone guys are known troublemakers. They wouldn¡¯t dare cross the Verdant Lotus sect, though."
I sighed dramatically, picking up the menu. "Ah, the trials and tribulations of us common folk. One moment you''re enjoying the simple pleasure of noodles, and the next, you''re facing down the ''Five Fists'' of some uppity sect."
Those guys were cowards. Five Fist? More like Five Flee! They scampered faster than a rabbit with its tail on fire.
Feng Wu leaned back, a mischievous glint in his eye. "You know, if you were a disciple of the Verdant Lotus, these ''trials'' might be less frequent."
I raised an eyebrow, feigning contemplation. "And get tethered to the sect for the rest of my days? No thanks," I replied with a light-hearted tone, signaling my contentment with the path I walked, even if it meant dealing with the occasional sect bully.
Feng Wu just smiled, a knowing look in his eyes, as if acknowledging my choice but also leaving the door open, should I ever reconsider.
The Spirited Noodle lived up to its reputation once again. Each slurp of the rich, steaming broth and the perfectly cooked noodles reminded me why this place was worth the trouble. Beside me, Feng Wu seemed to relish his meal with equal enthusiasm, the earlier altercation forgotten amid the culinary delights.
Between mouthfuls, I couldn¡¯t help but notice the tense atmosphere around us. At least seven different altercations flared up and died down in the time it took to finish our meal. It was like watching a drama unfold in real-time, each act more absurd than the last.
I leaned back, patting my stomach, and remarked, "They should really consider hiring some guards or something. It¡¯s like a free-for-all in here."
Feng Wu chuckled, nodding in agreement. "It¡¯s Crescent Bay City. What do you expect? But you¡¯re right. A little order wouldn¡¯t hurt, especially with the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet drawing in crowds from all over."
As we finished our meal, the chaos of the restaurant seemed a world away from the calm at our little table. The server, now looking less harried, came over to clear our dishes, casting a wary eye around the room as if expecting another brawl to break out.
Feng Wu threw a silver coin onto the table for the bill, standing up and stretching. "Ready to brave the cold again?"
I nodded, feeling the warmth of the meal combat the chill in my bones. "Let¡¯s go. I''ve got souvenirs to buy, and it looks like I¡¯ll need to add some peace and quiet to that list."
As we stepped out into the bustling streets, the noise of Spirited Noodle faded behind us. The air was crisp, and I could see my breath fogging in the night. Feng Wu walked beside me, his presence a reassuring constant in the unpredictable city. Navigating through the bustling streets with ease, he led me towards the heart of the city where the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet was to take place. As we approached, he pointed out the massive, ornate structure that towered over the surrounding buildings.
"Over there, that¡¯s the venue for the Gauntlet," he said, his eyes reflecting the grandeur of the looming edifice.
The Marble Jade Arena.
As we approached the massive, circular structure of the venue, Feng Wu began to casually fill me in, his eyes scanning it nonchalantly "This place, you see, it''s not just any arena. It''s like the heart of Crescent Bay City, especially when it comes to big events. Shaped in a massive circle, with layers upon layers of seating rising up, it gives you a sense of how grand things can get here."
A colossal line snaked around the venue, composed of individuals from all walks of life. Among them, a dark-haired man, his build and attire screaming ''blacksmith'', was visibly vibrating with excitement, occasionally letting out jubilant shouts.
"WOOOO!!!" He shouted, seemingly out of place. Many people lined up glared at the man, covering their ears.
Curious, I turned to Feng Wu. "What''s all this about?"
"That," he gestured to the winding queue, "is the line for preliminary registration. It''s been open for a couple of days now."
What?! That was the line for registering? I thought it was for tickets to watch it!
I stared, dumbfounded at the length of the line. "Are we supposed to wait in that?" The thought of standing for hours in the cold was less than appealing.
Feng Wu simply smiled and continued walking, bypassing the line entirely. "Not us," he replied.
Puzzled, I followed him to a side entrance of the venue, where a much shorter line awaited, manned by yellow-robed officials who looked more discerning and, frankly, more intimidating than those managing the main queue.
"These are the sponsored participants'' registration," Feng Wu explained as we joined the line, receiving curious and somewhat evaluating glances from the others.
Inside, the venue was even more impressive, with high ceilings and walls adorned with intricate murals, some of fights, some of alchemy. The air buzzed with anticipation and the murmur of conversations filled the space.
"The Marble Jade Arena''s been around for ages. Built by the ancestors of the city, it''s seen more battles and contests than the old library has books. And let me tell you, it''s not just about fighting; it''s where the mind meets might. Alchemy, strategy, you name it, it''s all been tested here."
I looked over at the line, and what I assumed was my competition. I recognized a few of their attires and insignias from my studies. Mystic River Pavilion, Rainy Dew Sect, Golden Summit Foundation...These were all storied names, and talked to each other with familliarity. But one particular person was missing. A certain girl with white hair, and blue eyes.
"No sign of that girl from the Lian clan?" Feng Wu asked.
"No..." Narrowing my eyes, I glanced over at him. "How''d you know I was looking for her?"
"It''s quite obvious, really," he said, not even sparing a glance back at me. "You talk about her often enough, like a love-drunk teen."
I felt my face heat up at the accusation, quickly shaking my head. "It''s not like that," I stammered, trying to sound convincing. "I just... want to make sure she sees that I''m not the amateur she thinks I am."
"Oh, sure," Feng Wu replied, his tone playfully skeptical. "Just a friendly competition, right?"
I sighed, rolling my eyes. "Yes, exactly. Just a competition. Nothing more."
Feng Wu chuckled, patting my shoulder. "Don''t worry, Kai. Your secret''s safe with me. But seriously, it''s good to have a goal. Keeps you sharp."
I feel like Feng Wu was hanging out with Lan Sheng too much.
I nodded, feeling a mix of relief and embarrassment. The thought of facing her again, proving my growth, it wasn¡¯t just about pride; it was about showing the fruits of my hard work.
As we reached the registration desk, Feng Wu leaned in, lowering his voice. "Just remember, it''s not just her you have to impress. There are eyes and ears everywhere here. Make them all remember the name Kai Liu."
I straightened up, a determined spark lighting up within me. He was right.
I''d be the one to win it all.
79. A Whiff of Competition
"Ugh, what is that odor?"
A wrinkled nose greeted me, followed by a purple sleeve pressed against it. He looked at me with narrowed eyes. His every movement was graceful and refined, resembling something akin to an aristocrat or noble similar to that white-haired girl from the Lian clan.
My own sense of smell was assaulted by a potent, almost invasive fragrance, reminiscent of jasmine incense, strong and heady, filling the air around him.
As he approached me, I inwardly sighed. What was with all these people picking a fight with me? I don''t think I looked or smelled that different from everyone here. I snuck a glance at the crowd.
I turned to ignore him. It wasn''t worth getting riled up over a small comment. I''ve heard worse from the villagers back home, and that was when they were being nice.
"Hey! I''m talking to you!" His voice cut through my thoughts, followed by a deliberate tap on my shoulder.
Feng Wu gave me a look of commiseration.
I turned to the man and looked at him again. We were the same height, so I stared him square in the face.
"Can I help you, sir?"
He tilted his head upward. "Yes, by accepting this!"
His sleeves unfolded suddenly, and I tensed. Was he really going to attack me over smelling bad?!
But contrary to my expectations, he took out a small narrow-necked vial of brown liquid and handed it to me. Cautiously, I took a sniff.
The aroma was rich and creamy, infused with sweet, earthy notes that immediately soothed my senses.
"That¡¯s quite pleasant," Feng Wu remarked.
"Sandalwood," the man stated, offering the vial as a remedy. "It should help with that unpleasant smell surrounding you."
A discreet sniff only revealed the fading scent of my bath soap. Had I committed some unknown social offense? Feng Wu''s lips twitched with suppressed amusement.
"Ah, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Bai Hua, of the Summer Sun Cosmetics." He said with a flourish and a slight smirk.
...Who?
I snuck a subtle glance at the second-class disciple beside me. His face changed upon hearing the name.
"Summer Sun Cosmetics? You''re the heir of the Hua family?"
"The one and only."
Feng Wu dipped his head in acknowledgment; a quick greeting. Out of politeness, I mimicked the gesture, despite my unfamiliarity with his fame. Applying the sandalwood essence to my neck and wrists, I noted Bai Hua''s approving glance and the deep breath he took, his satisfaction evident in the relaxed exhale.
"That¡¯s better, but still... there''s something peculiar," he murmured, almost to himself. "You''re of the Verdant Lotus sect, correct? Is this disciple the representative?"
"Not a disciple, but he is our representative this time around."
I stepped forward to introduce myself. "Kai Liu, a pleasure to meet you. Are you here to register as well?"
He nodded, lips curving into another smile. "Yes, I''m participating this year. It''s my debut. I plan to merge the worlds of aromatherapy and alchemy, creating a new era where Summer Sun Cosmetics reigns at the top!"
Feng Wu raised a brow. "I''m aware Summer Sun Cosmetics has a variety of products, but this is news; to think the heir would be participating in the Gauntlet."
With a wave of his hand, as if painting the future with his words, Bai Hua elaborated, "Our company has been on the cusp of revolutionary breakthroughs recently, all under my direction and blessed by my father''s wisdom. I assure you, our triumph in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet is not just anticipated¡ªit''s destined."
He leaned closer, inhaling deeply before nodding with certainty. "You''ve been training hard, haven''t you? I can tell by the lingering scent of sweat. It¡¯s quite... distinct."
I felt a shiver run down my spine.
Embarrassed yet intrigued, I watched as he produced another vial, this one filled with a clear liquid. "You must be experiencing some fatigue. Here, try this," he said, uncapping it and waving it under my nose.
The sharp scent of menthol and eucalyptus hit me instantly, clearing my sinuses and sending a wave of energy through my body. "Oh, wow!"
A minty aftertaste pervaded my nose and mouth. My airways felt like they had widened as breathing became easier.
Bai Hua smiled proudly. "Aromatherapy isn¡¯t just about pleasant scents; it¡¯s about practical effects. I aim to prove that in the Gauntlet and elevate the stature of Summer Sun Cosmetics."
Bai Hua¡¯s eyes gleamed. "Such a shame, though. The Verdant Lotus sect might just have to accept second place this year."
As the man''s words lingered in the air, I paused, my senses heightened. The initial wave of sandalwood''s creamy warmth had been comforting, familiar, yet something else teased the edges of my perception. I closed my eyes for a moment, allowing the aroma to envelop me.
In my shop, surrounded by rows of dried herbs, flowers, and roots, I spent countless hours blending, testing, and perfecting scents and remedies. Each ingredient had a story, a unique signature that I had learned to recognize. Sandalwood was unmistakable, its rich, woody base a canvas on which other scents played their parts.
But this was different¡ªthere was a warmth here, a spicy undercurrent, one that reminded me of Elder Ming''s home. I remembered the times I had ground cinnamon bark, the dust tickling my nose and making me sneeze, its sweet, fiery scent lingering on my clothes for hours.
I opened my eyes, looking at Bai Hua, who seemed to be watching me with a mixture of curiosity and challenge. Had he expected me to notice?
Unruffled, I inhaled the fragrance of the sandalwood again, catching the layered notes within. "Is that a hint of cinnamon I detect in your perfume?" I asked, gazing back at him with ease.
His surprise was genuine. "Impressive. You¡¯re right; there¡¯s a subtle note of cinnamon to add warmth. Not many can pick that up on the first try."
I shrugged, a small grin playing on my lips. "I run my own herbalism shop. I''m quite familiar with these scents."
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Bai Hua''s interest peaked, "Oh, is that so? And have I heard of this shop of yours?"
I hesitated before mentioning, "Perhaps not the shop, but one of my products. Have you come across the Invigorating Dawn Tonic?"
"I can''t say I have."
Well, that''s embarrassing.
Bai Hua chuckled. "I jest, Kai Liu. Who isn''t aware of the Invigorating Dawn Tonic? It was a mystery that the Azure Silk Trading Company had been tight-lipped about. Even I find myself curious on your methods. To think the inventor would be participating in this year''s Gauntlet¡ªMany new faces coming out the woodwork."
I chuckled. "Glad to hear it made an impression. As for how I created it? Well, let''s just say you might get a glimpse of my methods during the Gauntlet."
He leaned in, his eyes twinkling with interest. "Ah, you''ll show us during the Gauntlet, won''t you? I¡¯m eager to see your skills firsthand."
As the line shortened, signaling my turn to register, Bai Hua''s gaze shifted slightly, a playful smirk forming. "Be careful, Kai Liu. Carrying a snake around one¡¯s arm is a risky affair, especially in a crowd like this. I had thought it was your sweat that was particularly repugnant, but..."
I stiffened, and I glanced down at Windy, who was still safely concealed. Bai Hua laughed softly. "Don¡¯t worry, your secret''s safe with me. But I must say, you do keep fascinating company."
"Thanks for the warning, Bai Hua. I¡¯ll see you in the Gauntlet."
With a respectful nod, I moved forward to register, my mind buzzing.
"That''s the competition, huh?" I asked Feng Wu. "He''s...quite a character."
"It''s my first time meeting him. Although I''ve heard the heir of the Hua family was quite...eccentric."
We stepped up together in front of an official with tired eyes.
"Name?"
"Kai Liu, representing the Verdant Lotus Sect," I responded, Feng Wu nodding in affirmation beside me.
The official glanced up, a flicker of recognition crossing his features. "Ah, the Verdant Lotus Sect. Very well." He scribbled something on a parchment, then handed me a small, ornately designed token. "This is your entry token. Keep it safe; you''ll need it to access the competition grounds tomorrow."
Feng Wu added, "We''re also here to check into the lodgings provided for the sponsored participants."
"Of course," the official replied, unfurling a map and pointing towards a square on the map, not too far from what I presumed to be the venue. "Your accommodations are in the Jade Harmony Inn. Show your token at the desk; they will take care of you."
Thanking the official, we made our way to the inn. I scanned the line of faces as we exited the venue. Some contestants were talking to each other, but the atmosphere was cold. Faces were etched with a guarded silence, and conversations were clipped. Unlike Bai Hua, they didn''t seem as willing to strike up a conversation with their fellow opponents. It made sense, I suppose.
A blast of icy wind whipped past as we stepped outside, making my teeth chatter. The sun dipped below the rooftops, its fading light casting the street into a patchwork of shadows. The vibrant hues of orange and blue that streaked the sky marked the descent of the sun, casting long shadows across the bustling street. The queue for registration outside had seemingly doubled in length, snaking its way down the street like a restless serpent. I turned to Feng Wu, a question brewing on my lips.
"Is the Summer Sun Cosmetics really that famous?"
"Of course. They''re extremely popular with nobles and officials. Their focus has always been on external beauty, of course. Perfumes, lotions, hair treatments ¨C anything to enhance one''s physical appearance. This foray into alchemy, particularly the Gauntlet, is quite unorthodox for them. That Bai Hua... he certainly presents himself with an air of grandeur. Perhaps their ambition has shifted..."
"Confident, that guy. Maybe they have a secret weapon hidden up their perfumed sleeve."
The man chuckled, before stroking his chin in deep thought. "Indeed. Although he''s stranger than most, his development of Summer Sun Cosmetic''s aromatherapy lineup has only bolstered their position in the industry. It wouldn''t be a stretch to imagine they''ve developed other such alchemical concoctions with unique properties."
"A whole new path in alchemy," I mused, the wheels turning in my mind. "Makes you realize how much there is to learn, right? Maybe after the Gauntlet..."
My voice trailed off, the idea hanging in the air, a silent promise to explore this new avenue of alchemy once the competition was over.
The Jade Harmony Inn was as luxurious as its name suggested, with sweeping eaves and delicate carvings decorating its jade-colored walls. The lobby was spacious and filled with the scent of blooming flowers, a stark contrast to the bustling, crowded streets outside.
Feng Wu clapped my shoulder, a grin spreading across his face. "Not too shabby for a night''s rest before the preliminaries, is it not?"
I could only nod, awestruck by the opulence. "This is incredible. I''ve never stayed anywhere like this."
He chuckled, "Enjoy it, Kai. Tomorrow''s a big day. I''ll see you in the morning; I have some errands to run before the event starts." With a final nod, he turned and left.
Alone, I checked in at the front desk and headed to my room, which was as lavish as the rest of the inn, with plush furnishings and a view overlooking the city. I let Tianyi and Windy out, watching them explore the spacious room with curiosity. The butterfly fluttered out of her cage, inspecting every corner and edge.
Windy''s pure-white scales slid past my arm and onto the floor. I rolled my shoulders in relief. Holding him for that long was tiring! I sat down on the bed, almost sinking into the sinfully soft mattress. What was this made of? Clouds?
I forced my mind to rest, quieting any intrusive thoughts, focusing on the sensation of my body sinking into the luxurious bed. Yet, a familiar tightness settled in my chest, and words began to race unbidden within my mind.
Was I ready for the Gauntlet? I''d come so far, spent countless hours at home and in the Verdant Lotus Sect, grinding herbs, mixing concoctions, experimenting endlessly. The Invigorating Dawn Tonic, along with my other inventions, had gained recognition and even earned me a small fortune. But here, with the Gauntlet looming, the familiar ache of doubt returned. Was I truly prepared to stand among so many skilled alchemists?
A wave of tiredness washed over me as I thought back to my encounters that day. Each person in that line had carried an air of certainty, an unshakeable confidence in their skills. It was almost unnerving. Were they all master alchemists? Had they spent their lives immersed in this world, while I focused on running my shop and surviving day-to-day?
A pang of envy, sharp and fleeting, pierced my thoughts. I shook my head, trying to banish the negativity. It wouldn''t do to get worked up now. The Gauntlet was my chance, not just to prove myself, but to take my alchemy to new heights. Even meeting Bai Hua, the eccentric heir with his exotic perfumes and thinly veiled challenges, had ignited a spark of excitement. The potential of aromatherapy... it was an avenue I hadn''t even considered.
"I should get some rest. I''ll need to wake up early tomorrow. Right, Tianyi?"
The Azure Moonlight Flutter perched herself on my nose, sending waves of encouragement and positivity through our bond. Maybe it was just me, but I swear these emotions were on the cusp of forming words. Was our bond getting stronger?
I flopped onto the cloud-like mattress, sighing deeply. The scent of some exotic flower, probably infused in the absurdly expensive sheets, filled my nose. "This is how one lives in the big city, huh Windy?" I mumbled, stroking his scales absentmindedly. "Maybe a little rest would be good."
As my eyes rolled over and my body prepared to rest, a nagging voice lurked within the confines of my mind.
''Nap? Are you kidding me, Kai? This is the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet, not a picnic! The others are probably hunched over ancient tomes right now, deciphering alchemical secrets your simple village brain can''t even comprehend!''
Screaming into my pillow, I got up and glared at the wall, cursing my anxiety. Before I knew it, I was cross-legged on the floor, eyes closed, entering the familiar mental landscape.
"Maybe just a quick peek inside my Memory Palace? Just to double-check a few formulas..."
The scent of roasted nuts and steaming pastries drifted from street vendors'' stalls, teasing my empty stomach as Feng Wu and I walked towards the venue. Dawn had barely broken, the sky a canvas of soft pinks and oranges. I shivered, tightening my cotton-padded coat around me.
"Sleep well?" Feng Wu asked, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
I mumbled something between a grunt and a sigh. "...Something like that." The night had been a blur of frenzied memorization within my Memory Palace, followed by fitful tossing and turning whenever I''d managed to slip out of my mental abode.
Thankfully, the Jade Harmony Inn had lived up to its name, serving a breakfast worthy of royalty. The warm porridge filled my stomach, and the strong tea was a jolt to my senses, at least temporarily erasing the exhaustion etched on my face.
We approached the familiar building where the Gauntlet was held. The atmosphere had changed overnight. Gone was the long, snaking line from yesterday. Instead, a sense of tense anticipation hung in the air. Participants stood in small clusters, eyes darting nervously towards the entrance.
He gestured to a side entrance, where a stern-looking official stood guard. It seemed sponsored participants received preferential treatment, even up to the preliminaries!
As we neared, the official scrutinized my token and the list on his other hand. "Kai Liu?" A curt nod was his only acknowledgment before he stepped aside. "Right through there. The preliminaries are about to begin."
My heart thudded against my ribs as I walked through the entrance. Feng Wu followed, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Good luck, Kai. Show them what you''ve got."
I stepped into the venue, my pulse quickening. Unlike the vast room from yesterday, the floor here was meticulously organized. The space had been divided into three distinct sections, and within each, row upon row of simple booths curved around like a giant amphitheater. Clearly, this was designed to accommodate hundreds of participants.
Each booth was remarkably minimal: a small table, a cushioned stool, an ink pot, an ink brush, and a stack of what seemed like thick, high-quality paper. I had no idea what was in store for us, but it definitely didn''t look like traditional alchemy.
"Follow me," a voice said. I turned to see a middle-aged woman in a crisp uniform gesturing towards one of the quadrants. She led me down a path, and the sheer number of participants became overwhelming.
Here were young men and women dressed in the finest silks, faces etched with a mix of excitement and determination. There were stern-faced alchemists with weathered hands, likely journeymen hoping for a breakthrough. I even spotted a group of elderly scholars, their beards flecked with gray, who whispered amongst themselves with an air of quiet confidence. I suppose the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet allowed it; the only limiting factor for applicants was the level their cultivation was at.
"Your booth is this way," the woman said, finally stopping at the edge of one of the concentric rows. "Please, do not touch anything until the start of the preliminaries is officially announced." She nodded respectfully before moving on to guide the next person.
I sat on the stool and took a deep breath. So, this was it. I was just one face in a sea of alchemists, all hoping to prove their worth.
Taking a deep breath, I scanned the vast arena. The silence that had initially greeted us was slowly being replaced by murmurs and nervous chatter. Each quadrant bustled as participants took their assigned booths, the hushed conversations a rising tide across the room.
A glance around revealed a diverse cast of competitors. Young cultivators, their faces alight with ambition, fidgeted with the ink brushes we weren''t supposed to touch, their silks rustling with every movement. Weathered alchemists, their hands seasoned with years of working with fire and flame, examined the paper and ink pots with stoic expressions.
A sudden movement caught my eye. Bai Hua, his colorful attire a beacon amongst the sea of neutral tones, sauntered into my section, a playful glint in his eyes. He couldn''t see me, but inwardly I smiled upon seeing the familiar face from yesterday.
Before I could try to get his attention, a hush fell over the room. The murmurs ceased, replaced by a tense anticipation. All eyes turned towards the center of the arena, where a raised platform stood empty.
A spotlight flared to life, illuminating a figure who strode onto the stage with an air of quiet authority. He was a man of average height, his face etched with the lines of experience. Dressed in ornately embroidered robes of midnight blue, he held the crowd''s attention effortlessly.
"Welcome, honored participants," his voice boomed, surprisingly rich for such a lean figure. "I am Ma Hualong, the coordinator of the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet''s preliminary rounds. Today, you each have the opportunity to prove your mettle, to demonstrate your alchemical prowess and secure your place in the prestigious competition proper."
A ripple of excitement ran through the crowd. Ma Hualong raised a hand, silencing the murmurs.
"However," his voice continued, "the first challenge will not be what you expect." He paused, letting the weight of his words hang heavy in the air. "Today, we test your knowledge, not your practical skills. The written portion of the preliminaries will now commence."
80. Preliminaries
Ma Hualong, dressed in his blue robes, looked almost regal under the sunlight pouring through the high ceiling. Three stations each filled with hundreds of competitors! From where l could see, a symbol manifested on the epicenter of each station: a jagged rock in my station, a twisty stalk to the far right, and a paw print to my left.
"There are three sections. Minerals, herbs, and animal components. Each section will have a hundred ingredients assigned to them."
His crisp voice snapped my attention back to the present. With a flash worthy of an alchemist, he conjured a whirlwind of levitating plates into the air with a flick of his fingers. It seemed he was a formidable cultivator in his own right.
From my perspective, I could see the contents of each plate, a flicker of color and sparkle appearing upon each one. My heart did a flip. Amethyst? Beetle wings? A clump of...tree bark?
The hourglass on the podium lit up like a beacon, sand shimmering as it began its descent. "The first challenge: identification! You have one incense stick''s worth of time to identify as many ingredients in your assigned section as possible. Remember, contestants, after the hourglass runs dry," Ma Hualong paused for emphasis, "the plates will rotate, but you won''t. Only the top hundred scores will make it to the first round. Good luck, contestants!"
And with that, dozens of plates shot out from where he was and coalesced at our station. All of them gathered in a neat circular formation right above the jagged rock symbol, before settling in a paced orbit. I grabbed my brush and dipped it into the inkpot.
The noise of hundreds of pages being turned occurred simultaneously throughout the Marble Jade Arena. I could hear curses and mutters from the people closest to me, despite their faces being obscured by the walls of the booth.
Okay Kai, you got this. Think. I let out a sharp breath.
Eyes flitting from plate to plate ¨C what was that black, spiky crystal? That fist-sized stone was cinnabar that was easy enough. But the golden liquid... mercury? It looked too thick.
As the minutes passed, my brush moved faster and faster. Mostly standard ingredients, true, but a few were slipping through my grasp. That bluish-green rock... nothing in my recipe knowledge matched it. Jade, maybe, but the color was too vibrant, the luster too...off.
Jade? Wait a minute.
My mind raced through the Memory Palace, searching for an image, a snippet of a forgotten conversation. Then it hit me, a bolt from the blue. That''s not an ingredient at all! That''s Qinglian Jadeite!
"I should''ve known..." I muttered to myself, filling in the page before I forgot what it was.
The memory unfolded ¨C Elder Zhu lecturing about the Jade Alchemic Flame, the sect''s prized treasure. This was the base material used to create it, the same prize the Silent Moon sect had demanded! A rush of excitement washed over the panic. So, it wasn''t just identifying recipe ingredients. It was recognizing any material with alchemical potential, even those used indirectly!
This realization was a game-changer. My eyes swept across the plates with newfound purpose. Not just the potions, but the tools, the processes... What else was here that wasn''t in a standard alchemist''s toolkit?
There! Not some obscure ore, but a simple clay bowl. Yet, the texture... a touch of glimmer I''d seen only once, helping Elder Ming prepare a heat-resistant crucible back as a child. This wasn''t ordinary clay, but a blend infused with refractory minerals. My brush scratched along the page: Refractory Clay Mix.
And that strange vial? Not an exotic liquid metal, but a simple jar of oil ¨C except it had the subtle sheen of firefly luminescence. Not some potion base, but the fuel for alchemical lamps! The ones with that barely-there, flickering light that wouldn''t disturb sensitive reactions. My hand wrote swiftly: Alchemical Lamp Oil.
A sense of power filled me. This wasn''t a test of rote memorization. It was a challenge to see beyond the obvious, to understand the wider world of alchemical practice. It was the difference between a recipe-follower and a true alchemist. This, this I could do!
"Time''s up!" Ma Hualong declared, his voice reverberating throughout the venue. "Remember, contestants, the plates will now rotate. You have another incense stick''s worth of time to identify the ingredients in your new section!"
I let out a defeated sigh. Seventy, maybe eighty identifications. Not bad, considering I was completely lost with the last thirty or so. Still, a gnawing frustration bubbled in my gut. Those last unknown minerals troubled me.
The world blurred as the plates whirred. One moment they were filled with gleaming stones and curious vials, the next a kaleidoscope of greens, browns, and vibrant reds filled my vision. Herbs and plants! Relief washed over me, followed by a surge of exhilaration.
This was my territory¨Cyears spent scouring the forests, compounded by my experience at the Verdant Lotus sect, I had complete confidence here.
No time to waste. I dipped my brush before the plates even settled, my mind already racing. Moonlit Grace Lily, Breezesong Fruit, the rarest ingredients in the entire province! The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet was an opulent competition. It must''ve cost a generational fortune to procure all these items. Just the herbs alone must be astronomical.
My hand flew across the page, barely keeping pace with the frantic recognition flooding my mind. Skyreach Flower, Nightshade, Dragon''s Breath Pepper, Mystic Mindroot...each name a familiar friend from countless concoctions. Only one remained unidentified as the sand in the hourglass dwindled to its final grains. A spindly, crimson flower with an unsettlingly pulsating core.
"The plates will now rotate once more!"
The plates whirred into place, and my eyes widened. A flash of grey, Wind Serpent scales! A rush of affection surged through me. I''d never forget the day I''d found Windy. Although his scales were pure white, the ones of his parents were a greyish-silver hue, and the size of my fist.
Beside the scales, a mound of shimmering white fur ¨C Snow Hare, no doubt. But that curled, iridescent horn...? Likely an antelope variant from the far north with medicinal properties. My mind searched the depths of my Memory Palace, grasping for a name. It came to me like a spark: Frostbreath Antelope Horn.
The plates were a whirlwind of claws, feathers, and glistening vials of unidentified fluids. It was overwhelming, a stark contrast to the familiarity of the herbs. But I pushed on.
Claw of the Mountain Drake, Feather of the Azure Sunbird... With each name, I recalled fragments of animal lore, their habitats, their uses. My brush raced against the draining hourglass, leaving smudges of ink as I tried to match my memories to the bizarre specimens before me. Some of these weren''t even from our province! How''d they get these?
Despite my efforts, I couldn''t name them all. I was sure I did worse here compared to any of the other sections; maybe only half of which I identified correctly.
"And that concludes it! Don''t move from your seats, officials will be picking up your papers, ensure it is labeled properly with the number on your entry token and your name. If you don''t adhere to these instructions, your papers will be thrown out and you''ll be automatically disqualified!"
I swallowed, double-checking and turning over every page to do so. The venue was silent, save for the turning of pages. Slowly but surely, officials came by and collected my work.
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With a relieved sigh, I leaned back in my chair. It was done. Regardless of the outcome, I''d given it my all. A quick mental calculation reassured me ¨C I was confident at least two hundred of my identifications were correct, likely more in herbs. Even with the lackluster animal component round, that should place me comfortably within the top hundred.
The tension bled from my shoulders as I watched other contestants anxiously awaiting the collection of their papers. Sighs, groans, and even a few muffled sobs echoed through the booths. The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet, it seemed, wasn''t for the faint of heart.
"I NEARLY FAILED!" A man shouted from the animal component section, being immediately shushed by the official picking up his paper. Wasn''t that the blacksmith I saw waiting outside in the line? They actually let him participate?
The lull in activity gave me a chance to stretch and survey the cavernous space of the Marble Jade Arena. It had been a blur during the test, but now I could fully appreciate the scale and grandeur. Sunlight streamed through massive windows, casting a web of light and shadow across the floor.
The preliminary was done.
My gaze snagged on a familiar figure in the swirling crowd. A burst of vibrant silks and perfume marked Bai Hua''s presence. Curiosity piqued, I made my way towards him, weaving through the dispersing competitors.
"Bai Hua," I called out, a hint of a smile playing on my lips.
He turned, offering me one of his theatrical flourishes. "Ah, Kai Liu! And here I thought fate had separated us after our delightful encounter yesterday."
I chuckled. "The Gauntlet is unpredictable, I suppose. So, how did the preliminaries go for you?"
Bai Hua''s eyes gleamed with undeniable confidence. "Splendidly! My nose never betrays me, you see."
I blinked, puzzled. There was no way he could''ve used it here. "Your nose? I don''t quite follow."
A playful grin spread across his face. "Why, each ingredient has its distinct scent, Kai Liu! Even when its appearance confounds, the aroma always reveals the truth. Years of experience have made me quite the expert on olfactory identification."
My mouth opened to ask how he could have smelled the ingredients from such a distance, but then it clicked. Bai Hua had been assigned one of the closer booths, right near the center of the arena where the ingredients rotated. That gave him a distinct advantage, one I hadn''t even considered.
Before I could dwell on the unfairness of it, he continued, "However, even without my gifted nose, I am well versed in the properties of countless ingredients. My family''s business extends far beyond the world of perfumes. We dabble in a wide range of industries, all of which intersect with alchemy in some way or another."
I nodded, impressed despite myself. Of course, the Summer Sun Cosmetics empire wouldn''t be built purely on floral scents. Suddenly, the man''s earlier interest in my Invigorating Dawn Tonic made sense. He''d probably been assessing not just the product, but the skill behind it. Heh, of course! The profundities of my work would leave a lesser man driven insane from the intricacy!
"Well," I said, extending my hand, "I''m eager to see how you fare in the next stage. Until then, I bid you farewell."
A genuine warmth entered his eyes as he shook my hand. "The feeling is mutual, Kai Liu. If you ever find yourself nearby, do visit our shop."
Releasing his hand, I turned to spot a familiar figure weaving through the crowd. "Feng Wu!" I called out, a wave of relief washing over me.
As my friend approached, a sense of accomplishment settled upon me. The odds might be stacked against me, a village herbalist facing off against renowned alchemists from across the empire. But I knew genius and hard work would triumph over them all!
We were nearing the exit when a booming voice echoed across the arena. It was Ma Hualong, still standing upon his elevated platform. "Contestants! The results of your preliminary examinations will be announced here tonight," he declared, his voice carrying an unmistakable note of excitement. "It would be wise for all of you to return and discover whether you have the honor of proceeding to the competition proper."
There were hundreds of people here. Each one had submitted a small stack of papers just like me. Getting us all sorted out; how would that be possible?
My heart skipped a beat. Tonight. The waiting wouldn''t be long, but the uncertainty was suddenly unbearable. Beside me, Feng Wu chuckled.
"Well," he said, a mischievous glint in his eye, "it seems our evening plans have just been determined for us."
Feng Wu''s smile eased, as we walked out of the venue. "So, what now, Kowtow Kai? Ready to explore the delights of Crescent Bay City?"
I playfully nudged him. "Hold on there, who appointed you my tour guide? This young master requires the finest of jade beauties to escort him!"
He winked. "Well, you wouldn''t want to get lost in this labyrinth of alchemical shops and bustling markets, would you? Unless you''d like me to procure a certain white-haired cultivator to be your guide."
I rolled my eyes. My curiosity, however, was piqued. Crescent Bay City was a world away from my quiet village life. "Actually," I admitted, a hint of excitement creeping into my voice, "tell me more about the city. You, as a second-class disciple with more freedom, must''ve seen quite a bit."
A nostalgic smile touched Feng Wu''s lips. "The first time I stepped out here, I was overwhelmed. So many people, so many sights, so many¡smells." He wrinkled his nose playfully. "Not all of them pleasant, mind you, but it''s a city that assaults all your senses in the best way possible."
He leaned closer, lowering his voice. "Unlike third-class disciples, who are rarely allowed on missions alone, or without a senior guiding them, we seconds have a bit more freedom. It took me years within the sect before I could explore Crescent Bay City."
A flicker of resentment bubbled within me. Years? Being confined for so long¡ the very thought made me wince. It was another mark against the rigid structure of sects in my mind. Here I was, a free spirit who thrived on exploration, versus the years Feng Wu had spent yearning for just a taste of the outside world.
"I can''t imagine being holed away like that," I confessed, the words tumbling out before I could stop them. "The village may not be bustling, but at least I had the freedom to roam the mountains, to breathe the fresh air."
"I understand," Feng Wu said gently, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Your village life may seem simple to some, but there''s a beauty in its very simplicity. Something¡ the sect can sometimes overlook."
He grinned. "But for now, let''s experience the organized chaos of Crescent Bay City. Who knows, maybe you''ll find some hidden gem of an alchemist shop tucked away in a back alley. Where to, young master?"
The prospect of uncovering hidden treasures in a bustling metropolis was certainly more appealing than stewing in my own uncertainty until the results were announced. With a newfound determination, I squared my shoulders and met Feng Wu''s gaze.
"Lead the way," I declared, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips. "Let''s see what Crescent Bay City has to offer."
Our first stop was the library. I wanted to see what they had to offer here; perhaps something that would satisfy both me and Elder Ming''s desire to read and be entertained? I wouldn''t accept anything other than the finest, after all.
The sheer scale of Crescent Bay City continued to amaze me. Vendors hawked their wares - glistening gemstones, exotic spices, and contraptions that defied easy description. The air buzzed with a cacophony of shouts, laughter, and the rhythmic clang of a blacksmith''s hammer.
"Feng Wu," I asked, trying to be heard over the din, "Do they have any bookstores in the city? I remember Elder Ming had a few novels written by an author named Liang Feng in his collection."
A puzzled look crossed his face. "Bookstores? Certainly. But Liang Feng? Never heard of him." He shrugged. "Perhaps a regional author from your area?"
My disappointment was clear. So my favorite writer wasn''t a renowned author. Maybe I could still find his works somewhere...
As we turned down a narrower street, a sign caught my eye ¨C The Scroll and Tome, it proclaimed in elegant calligraphy. "Feng Wu, wait! Let''s check this place out first. Maybe they have what I''m looking for."
Feng Wu hesitated, avoiding eye contact with me. "Kai, about that... it''s mostly...well..." He trailed off.
I tilted my head, utterly confused. It was rare to see the usually eloquent man at a loss for words.
"Mostly what? That''s nonsense! I can see all the books in there! There''ll be something in there."
Before he could answer, my curiosity propelled me into the store. Immediately, the change in atmosphere became apparent. The air hummed with an almost tangible feminine energy, and the scent of floral perfumes, much like the one Bai Hua wore, hung heavy in the air.
And the clientele were almost exclusively women, their gazes flitting over the vibrant covers of the books that lined the shelves.
My eyes landed on a particularly flamboyant title, The Dragon Tamer and His Feisty Concubine.
"...Huh."
Below was another - The CEO of the Immortal Sect Falls for Me!
Such unique titles...I don''t think I''ve seen anything quite like them.
Something in my brain was warning me, screaming at me that something was off. But the titles...they were so grand, so full of promise and intrigue. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was more to them than met the eye?
"One peek wouldn''t hurt¡" I muttered, reaching out to a book whose title practically screamed adventure: The Peasant Who Stole the Demonic Senior Disciple''s Heart. A romance! No wonder there were so many women, I suppose it didn''t hurt to broaden my horizons!
As I flipped open the book, realization struck me like a lightning bolt.
It wasn''t just an adventure.
It wasn''t just a romance.
And this romance¡was between two men.
A flicker of curiosity pierced through my frantic attempts to compose myself. Surely this¡this wasn''t just some tale of forbidden passion? No, it must be a heroic tale of adventure! With shaking hands, I cracked the book open, my eyes skimming the first few paragraphs.
"Li Wei, the humble tea seller, shivered as rain lashed his meager stall. The mountain pass was deserted, the usual flow of travelers halted by the torrential downpour. A bolt of lightning rent the sky, illuminating a figure standing amidst the storm."
My heart skipped a beat. This sounded more promising already! It was an adventure!
"The stranger''s robes, a vibrant crimson against the backdrop of the tempest, bespoke membership in the illustrious Crimson Lotus Sect. His eyes, pools of molten rubies, held an unreadable intensity. A sword of exquisite craftsmanship gleamed at his hip, promising prowess in the martial arts."
Interesting. So, this was a cultivator, a member of a renowned sect meeting a humble villager? Why did it sound so familiar?
I dared a glance upwards, my gaze landing on the chapter title:
The Crimson Demon and His Captivating Tea Merchant
My jaw hung open in astonishment. Captivating? Oh my. This was definitely not Elder Ming''s sort of reading material. He would undergo Qi Deviation on the spot if I bought this for him!
"I seek shelter," the cultivator''s voice boomed, deep and resonant like distant thunder. "What price for your tea?"
Li Wei, though intimidated, found his voice. "For a cultivator of your stature, this humble one offers his finest brew as a gift."
The man paused, a flicker of surprise crossing his handsome features. "A gift? You understand the implications, mortal?"
A defiant spark ignited within Li Wei''s eyes. "Of course, my lord. But kindness knows no cultivation level. A simple cup of tea is the least I can offer to one who braves the storm."
The demon lord¡¯s gaze softened, the barest hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Very well. Your courage intrigues me, tea merchant. I shall accept your offering."
And so, the demon lord''s blood-red lips neared closer and closer, until¡ª
Panic flooded my veins. I slammed the book shut and whirled around, scanning the room frantically for an escape route. My eyes met those of an elderly woman adorned in jewels. Her expression was unreadable. I left the store as fast as my legs could take me. Unable to meet Feng Wu''s gaze, I could make out the faint tremors wracking his body, as well as the faint sound of snickering.
"Ahem, I was just...I think I must be feeling ill, Feng Wu." I stammered, my voice reaching a fever pitch. "The forbidden scriptures. They''ve given me some sort of...heart demon? Qi deviation?"
Feng Wu didn''t even try to hide his laughter. His shoulders shook as he grabbed my arm and all but dragged me to the next stop.
81. The Day Snow Turned to Rain
It was a hot day.
That by itself wouldn''t have been anything to comment on.
But even in the furthest recesses of the world, the Heaven''s Pillar Sect, stationed in a land of perpetual winter, felt the heatwave.
In an instant, the heavy snow that pervaded the sect''s territory turned into rain. The hail quickly turned into a torrential downpour, alarming the sect''s disciples.
Elder Li narrowed his eyes.
''Impossible...''
It wasn''t a word that the Sect Leader used lightly. For a man who had lived an uncountable number of years, it wasn''t something said often. Although he mused that two anomalous events that never occurred during his lifetime had happened in quick succession; the rise of the Heavenly Interface, and this.
The Heaven''s Pillar Sect resided in a realm saturated with yin qi, where the chill cut to the bone. Lower-level cultivators risked freezing to death without proper preparation, a testament to the harshness of the land. Yet, this perilous environment held an allure ¨C it was one of the richest locations for gathering qi.
But today, a shift rippled through the air. Snow morphed into torrential rain, melting the icy mountain crowns and unleashing devastating floods. Slopes crumbled in landslides, crushing unprepared creatures beneath the onslaught of earth and water.
A catastrophe of epic proportions.
For the sect''s inhabitants, many of whom had never ventured beyond these icy borders, the world was turning upside down. This event was as unimaginable as pigs sprouting wings and taking flight.
But the Sect Leader didn''t move from his spot, high above the courtyard where the Heaven''s Pillar sect was running amok wondering what happened. He only spoke a few cryptic words.
"Damned brat..."
"Senior Brother! What are you doing?!"
The disciple was startled. Their senior brother had gone mad, running straight towards the dining hall in a panic when the sudden change occurred. A drop of sweat sizzled away on his brow, disappearing in a wisp of steam as the heatwave intensified.
The senior brother in question ran through the sect premises, barreling down and making the world tremor with every step. Despite his large stature, he moved with a speed that surpassed common sense, creating a gust of wind in his wake. The disciple following after him shouted.
"READY THE DINING HALL! SENIOR BROTHER''S GETTING FOOD PANGS AGAIN!"
A wave of dread washed over the sect, a collective gasp echoing through the premises. Some took action, taking advantage of their lighter figure to make it to the dining hall to prepare them for the ensuing disaster.
It wasn''t the heatwave that caused the deepest fear, but the monstrous figure rampaging towards the dining hall.
Senior Brother was a force of nature¨Cboth figuratively and literally. Standing nearly eight feet tall, his physique could only be described to a massive boulder. Broad shoulders, bulging biceps, and a frame that could easily crush a lesser man...it was a miracle he hadn''t brought down any buildings in his frenzied dash.
His once bright eyes, now perpetually hooded, held a strange emptiness. Unkempt hair, and a scruffy beard belying of a man his stature and reputation.
A cruel reminder of the promising young cultivator he once was, now forever broken.
With a roar that split the heavens, the giant crashed into the dining hall. Panic ensued. Disciples scattered like ants before a foot, their shouts drowned out by the terrifying sounds of splintering wood and shattering porcelain. Tables flew, benches were overturned, and trays of food scattered in a chaotic explosion of color and scent.
Senior Brother paid them no mind. His gaze was fixed on the feast with a single-minded intensity that burned with madness. He lunged forward, a gargantuan hand reaching for the nearest plate.
Roast beast, still steaming, disappeared into his maw in a single bite. A whole glazed fish followed, its delicate bones crunching ominously. He chewed and swallowed with inhuman speed, oblivious to the growing mound of empty plates beside him.
Another disciple, braver or perhaps more foolish than the rest, attempted to intervene. "Senior Brother, please! You must control yourself!"
The only response was silence. The disciple, frustrated, stepped closer, assuming the giant hadn''t heard him.
A grave mistake.
With a flick of Senior Brother''s wrist, the disciple blurred. The unfortunate soul crashed into a wall, his body crumpling like a discarded puppet.
An elder, responsible for overseeing the dining hall, gripped his staff until his knuckles turned white. "This¡ this is unacceptable," he sputtered, his voice tinged with both fear and sorrow. "His strength¡ it grows with each passing day. It''s..."
The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.
Unfair.
That was the closest thing that could be said to describe the broken man.
For all his monstrous strength, the last time that hulking man had stepped foot into the courtyard to train was a decade ago. His robust body maintained itself, evidenced by the raw, unbridled strength that was once thought to usher in a prosperous era for the sect.
Before he had been shattered. Given a heart demon that could never be overcome.
"If it weren''t for him!" The elder said, his voice shaking with something beyond anger, unable to speak the person''s name without risking Qi Deviation. "Curse him! Curse his bloodline for a thousand years!"
The feast turned into a grotesque parody of itself. A man turned into a ravenous beast, barely pausing to breathe between mouthfuls. Spices and sauces smeared his face, dripping onto his robes in a grotesque display of gluttony. He moved with desperate urgency, as if driven by a hunger that could never be sated.
The elders who came to see the havoc watched in mounting despair. He was their tragedy. Once a beacon of hope within the sect, a catastrophic incident had shattered both his body and mind. Despite recovering physically without any problem, his spirit had been irrevocably broken. All that remained was a shell of a man, driven by base instincts and an insatiable appetite that mirrored his bottomless grief.
"What¡what triggered this episode?" an elder asked, his voice hushed. "The heatwave? This¡could it be a sign he''s drawing near?"
A painful silence descended upon the room. It was the question they all pondered, the question that haunted their every waking moment. They had dedicated their lives to mending the man who once was the rising star of their sect, to returning a semblance of light to his vacant eyes. But as he continued to gorge himself, his monstrous silhouette a stark contrast to the fading sunlight streaming through the shattered windows, they were forced to confront their devastating failure.
Gossamer curtains, diaphanous as spiderwebs, billowed gently in the sudden burst of hot air. Inside the opulent chamber, a gasp of surprise rippled through the gathered jade beauties. They fluttered around their master like exotic butterflies trapped in a gilded cage.
The man, a vision of ethereal beauty with his pale, porcelain skin and hair the color of moonlight, tilted his head back, his crimson lips forming a pout. A single, unexpected crack marred the otherwise flawless surface of his face ¨C a split lip, from which a tiny ruby bead of blood welled. It trickled down his perfect chin, tracing a crimson path before plopping with a soft plop into the jade cup of spirit wine he held delicately in his hand.
"Strange," he murmured, his voice a melodic chime, "even the air itself seems to thirst today."
His words were met with a chorus of concerned murmurs from the jade beauties. Their hands hovered anxiously, searching for a way to soothe their master''s discomfort. He paid them no mind. He swirled the blood-tainted wine in his cup, watching it bloom like a macabre flower.
"This sudden heatwave¡" he mused, his voice filled with an unsettling undercurrent. "A harbinger, perhaps? A catalyst?"
The jade beauties exchanged nervous glances. His poetic pronouncements, often laced with cryptic meaning, were a source of both fascination and trepidation for them.
Suddenly, the opulent chamber door slid open with a hiss, revealing a figure clad in stark black robes. Their voice held an unmistakable urgency.
"My Lord," the figure rasped, bowing shortly. "The Wing Clan. They''ve attacked our southern outpost. They are mobilizing towards us with alarming speed."
A soft, melodic laugh filled the room. Xiu Mei waved a dismissive hand, the jeweled rings on his fingers catching the sunlight like miniature suns. "My dear crow," he cooed, addressing the messenger, "do inform them that we are most appreciative of their¡haste."
He raised the blood-stained cup to his lips, the jade beauties flinching as the crimson liquid passed over his cracked lips. A single, cherry-red stain bloomed on the pale skin.
"Thank them," he continued, his voice laced with a dangerous sweetness, "for coming to us. It''s discourteous for me as a host to keep them waiting, no?"
The messenger, despite his stoicism, visibly bristled at the ease he had taken the news in stride. "My Lord," he pressed, "the situation is critical. We need to-"
"Ah, but haste is of the essence, isn''t it, my little crow?" The white-haired man interrupted, his smile widening, though it failed to reach his eyes. "Not because of these¡impatient insects," he gestured towards the approaching Wing Clan, "but because the world waits. And we cannot, shall not, disappoint it, can we?"
The murderous expressions of the Wing Clan were visible from here, not even bothering to hide their intent which threatened to crush everyone in the room.
Except him.
In front of the dozens of cultivators aiming for his life, he only laughed. A beautiful and innocent sound. But, it was a sound that struck terror far deeper in the present group than the presence of martial artists converging on their location.
The city would soon become drenched in red.
The Emerald Spirit Forest pulsed with unease. The sudden surge of heat ripped through the verdant expanse like a searing wind, a stark contrast to the usual cool embrace of the ancient trees. Creatures stirred in their nests, nocturnal predators emerging in the sudden, oppressive light. Spirit Beasts, attuned to the subtle shifts in their environment, let out panicked cries, the symphony of life replaced by a frantic discord.
High above it all, amidst the swirling clouds of emerald leaves, the World Tree stood unmoving. Its colossal form dwarfed even the mightiest of its brethren, its roots snaking deep into the earth''s core, its branches reaching towards the heavens. Unlike the lesser trees, their crowns wilting under the scorching sun, the World Tree remained stoic. A few leaves, brittle and brown, danced away on the hot wind, but the vast majority held firm.
Within its ancient heart, a consciousness stirred. It was older than time itself, a silent observer of the world''s birth and evolution. It had witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the dance of creation and destruction. Yet, even in its vast memory, this event felt¡unnatural. The heat, the pressure, it was a harbinger of change, a tremor in the delicate balance of the world.
''Perhaps it was...?''
To the entity, decades were ephemeral. Old monsters, shining empires...they all felt fleeting to the World Tree, which had existed for millennia.
But one figure stood in its recent memory, a cultivator of unknown origin. It hadn''t stayed long, perhaps two or three years, before vanishing.
It strongly reminded the World Tree of an ember, but one that, if left unchecked, threatened to consume and turn all to ash.
This heatwave felt so distinct. The towering entity knew what it was.
An awakening.
As the heat intensified, so did the World Tree''s resolve. Its roots dug deeper, and its branches spread wider, drawing strength from the very lifeblood of the forest. The radius of the Emerald Spirit Forest shimmered, the effects of the devastating heatwave slowly ebbing away.
It would stand firm, an immovable pillar against the coming storm. It would be the silent sentinel, the unwavering guardian, ensuring the delicate equilibrium remained unbroken.
A wave of warmth washed over Elder Ming, so sudden and unexpected that it stole his breath for a moment. He blinked, the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees momentarily blinding him. Gone was the usual bite of the approaching winter in the Tranquil Breeze Province, replaced by a gentle breeze and a sky the color of a robin''s egg.
For a heartbeat, Elder Ming was transported back in time.
He was no longer the village elder, his weathered face etched with the trials of a long life. He was a young cultivator, his spirit alight with the thrill of discovery, the world a playground of endless possibilities. He could almost feel the burning of incense on his hand, hear the resonant chime of an ancient temple bell.
A pang of something akin to longing shot through him. Memories, hazy and fragmented, flickered at the edge of his consciousness. The gleam of a sword, the camaraderie of fellow disciples, the heady feeling of boundless potential...the fragments of a life lost in a single, devastating night.
Elder Ming shook his head, a wry smile pulling at the corners of his lips. What a fool he was, an old man getting sentimental over a bit of unexpected heat. He glanced down at the rows of tender herbs Kai had entrusted to his care. Perhaps this sudden warmth would give them a much-needed boost before the real winter arrived.
With a renewed sense of purpose, Elder Ming knelt beside the fragrant lavender, his calloused fingers gently brushing against the soft blooms. He may have left his past behind when he fled to the Tranquil Breeze Province, burying the pain deep within, but his memories always acted as a companion on his lonely nights.
The Jianghu held no allure for him anymore, not after the tragedy that marred his youthful aspirations.
But maybe, just maybe, this odd heatwave wasn''t just a change in the weather. Maybe, it was a sign of new beginnings, a chance to cultivate something new, not just plants, but perhaps...himself.
A ghost of a smile played on his lips. "Off gallivanting around the Crescent Bay City...Making an old man like me work double-time tending these herbs." He chuckled softly.
With a sigh that escaped his lips like a wisp of smoke, Elder Ming rose from his kneeling position. His muscles creaked in protest, a stark reminder of the years etched into his body.
Elder Ming rose, joints creaking in quiet protest. The years lay heavy on his frame, but today, a lightness stirred within him. He walked into the shop and reached for Kai''s meticulously kept notebook. The boy''s clear script chronicled the care of each plant, and as Elder Ming flipped through the pages, his eye fell on a section filled with short recipes. Ways to transform the essences into even more exquisite teas.
"Well," he murmured, a flicker of mischief in his eyes, "no sense dwelling on the past. There are herbs to be watered, and perhaps...a new tea blend to experiment with." The thought warmed him, a spark of anticipation chasing away the shadows of old regrets.
82. Underdogs and Unexpected Results
"Crimson Demon..." I shuddered, thinking about the bookstore from earlier in the afternoon.
"Hm? Did you say something, Kai?"
I shook my head as soon as Feng Wu turned to look at me as we exited the Jade Harmony Inn. "Nothing," I muttered.
He raised an eyebrow, a knowing grin spreading across his face. "You''ve been awfully quiet ever since we left The Scroll and Tome. Perhaps you found...enlightenment?"
My face flushed hotter than a blacksmith''s forge. "Don''t be ridiculous! I was merely contemplating the profound impact certain literary works can have on the unsuspecting reader."
"The profound impact of...forbidden knowledge?" Feng Wu finished, a teasing glint in his eye. "Perhaps you''ve stumbled upon an awakening, my friend?"
"An awakening?" I nearly choked on the words. "More like a descent into madness! Those scandalous texts could give a cultivator Qi Deviation just by gazing upon the first page!"
A burst of laughter escaped Feng Wu''s lips. "Oh, Kai, you''re truly a sight to behold. Here I thought you were an adventurous spirit, eager to explore the unknown, and yet a few simple books send you into a panic."
"Simple is an understatement," I grumbled, crossing my arms defensively. "Those were weapons of mass distraction, designed to corrupt the minds of the innocent!"
Feng Wu leaned closer, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "It truly is a corrupting influence. I''ll make sure to keep watch on you, before you get into the idea of making aphrodisiacs, and other sinister potions of that natu-"
"Feng Wu, I swear, you''re courting death," I warned, though I couldn''t suppress a reluctant smile. "Trying to induce a heart demon in a fellow cultivator at such a critical moment¨Cyou have no shame!"
He threw his head back and laughed, the sound echoing down the bustling street. "Ah, Kai, never change."
My own smile widened as we continued towards the Marble Jade Arena. Feng Wu''s teasing may have been relentless, but his lightheartedness was a welcome distraction. The results of the preliminaries would be announced soon, and my fate in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet hung in the balance.
As we neared the venue, the energy shifted. The playful atmosphere dissipated, replaced by a palpable tension that hung in the air like a storm cloud. Hundreds of contestants milled about outside the arena, their faces etched with a mixture of anticipation and dread.
¡°LET''S DO THIS!¡± a booming voice cut through the nervous chatter. I turned to see a towering figure shouldering his way through the crowd, making everyone give him a wide berth. The blacksmith from the preliminaries, with his broad shoulders and a grin that seemed permanently etched onto his face.
Out of all these dignified old men and scholarly-looking folk, he stood out like a crane among chickens. It made me truly curious, what was someone like him doing here?
A flicker of sympathy stirred within me. He might be brimming with confidence, but I couldn''t help but notice the subtle disdain from some of the other competitors. Perhaps they saw him as a brute, an outsider crashing their world of meticulous concoctions and complex theory. Yet, there was a part of me that admired his boldness.
"Excuse me," I said, stepping forward, "but I don''t believe we''ve properly met. You''re the...?"
He boomed a laugh that startled a nearby group of contestants. "The name''s Tao Ren! And who might you be?"
"Kai Liu," I replied, clasping my hands together for an introductory bow. "I must admit, I wasn''t expecting to see a blacksmith competing in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet."
Tao Ren''s wide grin faltered for a moment, a flicker of surprise crossing his features. "Blacksmith? How did you figure that out?"
I gestured towards him, taking in the worn leather apron tied around his waist, the heavy hammer strapped to his side, and the impressive musculature that spoke of years spent wielding heavy tools. "The telltale signs, really. The apron, the hammer, the...physique. Reminds me a bit of a friend back home who''s a blacksmith himself. You both have a certain, well, blacksmithy vibe."
A grin even wider than the first split across Tao Ren''s face. "A blacksmithy vibe, you say? I like the sound of that! Now that''s putting it poetically." He clapped me on the back with a force that nearly sent me staggering. "Alright, Kai, you''ve earned a spot as my honorary observer for the competition. Prepare to witness greatness!"
"Greatness, huh? But I still don''t quite understand. What brings you to the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet?"
Tao Ren''s grin widened even further, if that were possible. "Well, my old man back home had a hunch this competition might finally light a fire under my backside to take alchemy seriously, wants me to inherit that shop of his. He sent me out here to compete," He winked conspiratorially. "Truth be told, the only fire I''m interested in is the one roaring in my forge."
My eyebrows shot up. "So you''re not here for alchemy?"
He chuckled, a hearty, full-bodied sound. "Not exactly. Think of it as a strategic investment. You see, I''m planning on opening up a blacksmithing business soon. And what better way to drum up clientele than by showing everyone I''m not just a brawny fellow who swings a hammer, but a man of refined skill, capable of wielding both fire and potion? At the biggest event in Crescent Bay City, no less?"
He thumped his chest proudly. "Imagine the whispers! ''Tao Ren, the alchemist-blacksmith! His blades are sharper than his mind, and his elixirs rival those of immortals!'' Pure marketing genius, wouldn''t you say?"
I blinked, struggling to process his logic. While there was a certain...boldness to his plan, the connection between forging and alchemy seemed a bit of a stretch. "Uh, I see what you''re going for," I stammered, unsure how to phrase my next question delicately. "But wouldn''t it be more effective to, you know, actually focus on your blacksmithing skills if that''s your true passion?"
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
Tao Ren''s grin wavered for a split second, a flicker of doubt clouding his eyes. Then, with a booming laugh that echoed through the crowd, he clapped me on the shoulder once more. "Details, details, my friend! Besides, who says a blacksmith can''t be a master of both fire and metal? Just wait and see, Kai Liu. The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet is about to witness the rise of a legend!"
Just as I opened my mouth to reply, a wave of anticipation rippled through the crowd. A hush fell over the gathered contestants as a figure emerged from the grand entrance of the Marble Jade Arena. Ma Hualong strode to the elevated platform at the front of the arena.
In his hands, he carried a scroll so long it nearly reached the ground. With a flourish that belied his age, he unfurled the parchment, his voice resonating across the vast space.
"Contestants of the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet! The hour of reckoning is upon us. Now, the moment has come to reveal those who shall advance! Gather close and listen intently, for your names shall be called. Please head inside once your name is called. Further instructions await you."
My own heart pounded like a war drum against my ribs. This was it. After months of preparation, of pouring over ancient texts and battling burnout, I would finally know my fate.
Tao Ren let out a whoop of excitement, his booming voice cutting through the tense silence.
I couldn''t help but chuckle despite the nerves gnawing at me. His boundless enthusiasm was oddly infectious. But as Ma Hualong cleared his throat, preparing to read the first name, a thought struck me. Would I make the cut? Was I destined to become one of the hundred? Or would my journey end here, outside the Marble Jade Arena, a mere footnote?
''No, no...that''s ridiculous. Believe in yourself, Kai! No more doubts!''
"At last place we have Tao Ren, of the...Jade Flame Foundry?"
Ma Hualogn leaned in closer, squinting his eyes in disbelief.
"YEAH!!!"
My left eardrum nearly burst from his shout of glee, pushing past the crowd of people to enter the main entrance. He turned to me again, with a large grin showing his molars.
"I''ll see you at the top, Kai Liu!"
I watched as the cheery blacksmith was pointed towards the area we were supposed to go, eliciting several whispers from contestants trailing behind him.
"Did you hear that? One-hundredth place? Surely a mistake..."
"...A blacksmith? How undignified. Perhaps he got lucky during the identification section."
"Such uncouth individuals have no business in a competition as esteemed as this..."
The words stung. A wave of anger washed over me, not on my behalf, but for Tao Ren. He might be loud, a bit too confident, but he clearly wasn''t as ignorant as these snobbish alchemists assumed. He had heard them, of that I was certain. They were idiots.
I knew better. Blacksmiths, just like any craftsman, possessed specialized knowledge. While they might not have the breadth of alchemical understanding as someone raised in the field, Tao Ren must have scored exceedingly well on the minerals portion of the preliminaries. And judging by his background in alchemy, he wasn''t a slouch in any of the other categories.
A snide voice cut through my thoughts. "Well, well, it seems even the preliminaries fail to truly separate the wheat from the chaff. We''ll see how long that blacksmithing buffoon lasts in the actual competition."
The speaker, a young man with robes embroidered with intricate cloud patterns signifying his prestige, barely spared me a glance as he passed.
My hands clenched into fists. I wanted to shout, to defend Tao Ren, to argue that his background didn''t dictate his potential.
With a sigh, I tucked my own doubts and anger away. It wasn''t my place to fight Tao Ren''s battles for him. He seemed blissfully unaware of the muttered insults, or perhaps, stubbornly chose to ignore them. It was his journey, and I trusted he had the strength to see it through, regardless of the scorn from those who only measured talent through pedigree and tradition.
The names continued to flow from Ma Hualong''s lips, most of which I didn''t recognize. The snobby man in the cloud-patterned robe made it as well, coming in at sixtieth place. His name was Duan Jian. He seemed assured by his results, tilting his chin with a smirk as the crowd parted themselves to allow him through.
I could see people already leaving the crowd, muttering and bemoaning the fact there was no chance they made it. It was disheartening, because I saw dozens, many of whom had that dignified aura around them, exiting without much of a fuss.
"At twentieth, Bai Hua of Summer Sun Cosmetics!"
I swept my eyes over the crowd, trying to pick out the perfumer from the crowd. Closer to the front, I could see it; the flamboyant robes of Bai Hua. I grinned. It seemed he made it too.
Many whispered in disbelief at the fact that somebody not from a sponsored family or sect made it in the top twenty. It was unprecedented, even if Bai Hua was technically from a famous family as well. I suppose it mattered since his family wasn''t composed of cultivators, but more on the merchant side of things. Beside me, Feng Wu let out a low whistle.
"How rare is that?" I asked, keeping my voice low. "For someone without an alchemist sect or family backing to make it this far."
"Quite rare," he replied, his gaze fixed on the crowd. "I can''t recall anyone without proper backing from the previous Gauntlet who managed it in the top eighty, let alone the top twenty. Of course, the format of the preliminaries was vastly different. Perhaps that played a role."
"Ma Hualong seems as surprised as the rest of them," remarked Feng Wu.
As we passed into the top twenty without my name being called, I grew nervous. If Bai Hua''s debut at the twentieth spot was unprecedented, then what were the chances I didn''t make it? I swallowed nervously.
"I know what you''re thinking, Kai," Feng Wu said, without even sparing a glance at me. "Effort does not betray the dedicated person. I''ve seen your work first-hand. You will make it through the preliminaries, without a doubt."
My shoulders eased with his words. It was a testament to our friendship, the fact he knew the rights words to say even when I didn''t say anything.
"At twelfth, Kai Liu of the Verdant Lotus sect!"
And just like that, all my fears and anxieties were washed away.
With a grin spreading across my face, I realized that despite my internal turmoil, there was an undeniable thrill simmering just beneath the surface. I''d always been the underdog. Now, it was time to prove I had teeth.
As I slowly pushed my way through the crowd, countless eyes settled on me - some with curiosity, many with disdain, others with a dismissive indifference that stung even more.
I met each stare with unwavering determination. A wide grin plastered to my face, I held my head high. Let them look. Let them underestimate me. It would only make my eventual triumph all the sweeter.
"Well done, Kai!" Feng Wu''s voice cut through my thoughts as I entered the Marble Jade Arena. He clapped me on the shoulder, nudging me towards the Marble Jade Arena.
My own smile widened in response. I couldn''t wipe the grin off my face if I tried. In this moment, the doubts and fear seemed to fade, replaced by a fierce determination.
I approached Ma Hualong and the band of officials beside him. He gave me a curt nod and an appraising eye, before motioning towards scholarly-looking official with a small bag.
They unveiled another token, with the number twelve emblazoned on it.
"Please head inside the waiting area for further instruction," The official said with a bowed head.
I said my thanks and moved forward, taking one last look back. Hundreds of contestants remained. To think less than a dozen had a higher score than I did.
The more incredible part was how I doubted my genius. I should''ve known. I was the chosen one!
I moved deeper into the Marble Jade Arena, the cheers of the remaining contestants fading behind me. The once vast, open space, filled with seated booths for the preliminary round, had been completely transformed. Now, a simple seating area had been set up against one wall, facing what appeared to be a large, raised platform.
Scanning the other competitors already gathered, a familiar face caught my eye. Bai Hua, his flamboyant robes even more conspicuous amidst the more subdued attire of the other alchemists, was engaged in animated conversation with none other than Tao Ren. The blacksmith''s boisterous laughter echoed through the space, his grin wide enough to split his face in two.
A flicker of warmth spread through me. These two couldn''t be more different, and yet, both had defied expectations to reach this stage. Perhaps there was more to the Gauntlet than pedigree and tradition after all.
A grin spread across my face as I approached the unlikely duo. "Well, well, well, if it isn''t the perfumer extraordinaire and the blacksmith," I remarked, a playful glint in my eye.
Bai Hua turned towards me, his smile dazzling. "Kai Liu! I trust the preliminaries treated you well? Your placement is most impressive...for a simple herbalist, of course." His eyes twinkled with a teasing glint.
Tao Ren let out a booming laugh. "Don''t listen to him, Kai. This pretty boy might know his perfumes, but he hasn''t got an ounce of alchemical sense in his head! You''re the real threat here."
"Oh, hush now," Bai Hua retorted, swatting Tao Ren''s arm playfully. "Don''t fill his head with nonsense. Clearly, I''ll be the one to win this contest." He raised his robe to cover his face.
I held up my hands in mock surrender. "Gentlemen, gentlemen, please! I''m but a humble village apothecary. You both outshine me by leagues." My grin broadened. "Even if I scored higher than the both of you."
As our bickering continued, I noticed Duan Jian''s scornful gaze on us, not too far from where we were seated. The anger I''d been carefully suppressing flared with renewed intensity. I was tired of being treated like an afterthought, tired of having my knowledge and potential brushed off simply because I didn''t come from the right pedigree. Perhaps it was foolish, perhaps it was reckless, but a stubborn defiance surged within me.
My fingers twitched. For a fleeting moment, a different face superimposed itself over Duan Jian''s ¨C the visage of Elder Jun, the Silent Moon elder I had dared to defy. The all-too-recent memory of that chilling brush with true power sent a shiver down my spine. The stakes had been so much higher back then, with not just my own life, but the safety of my village and sect brothers hanging in the balance.
Yet, another part of me, a bolder voice fueled by resentment, refused to yield.
If I were afraid of risk, I never would''ve left the confines of Gentle Wind Village. And after everything I''d faced with the Silent Moon sect, his posturing felt almost petty. Duan Jian might throw obstacles in my path, but I doubted he had the inclination to truly destroy me.
A mischievous smirk tugged at my lips. "After all," I continued, my voice carrying across the space, "Perhaps those concerned with separating wheat from chaff should first ensure they can tell the difference themselves."
83. The Nail That Sticks Out
He narrowed his eyes at me, a flicker of rage as he realized the meaning behind my words.
A part of me, a small, cautious voice, urged me to backtrack, to apologize for the pointed insult. After all, wasn''t it wiser to avoid making powerful enemies? The old adage whispered in my mind: ''the nail that sticks out gets hammered down''.
The thought of enduring more condescension, of accepting my place as a ''lesser'' alchemist, filled me with a different sort of dread.
Hadn''t I endured enough veiled insults, enough dismissive glances? These arrogant alchemists, with their prestigious lineages and their certainty of superiority, they saw me as an insignificant speck, a bit of chaff to be swept aside without a thought.
Duan Jian took a deliberate step forward, the cloud patterns on his robes swirling as if stirred by a sudden gust of wind. "You dare mock me, village boy? Do you know who I am? The prestige of my clan?"
"Oh?" I feigned innocence, tilting my head in mock curiosity. "Do enlighten me. Perhaps your esteemed clan specializes in growing chaff?"
The insult elicited a few laughs, and a low murmur of whispers rippled through the crowd. Duan Jian''s face flushed an ugly shade of crimson.
"How dare you!" he snarled, his voice rising in anger. "You¡you insignificant worm! Don''t think your petty tricks will save you. I''ll see you fail in the first round, and then you''ll learn the price of disrespect!"
My hands clenched into fists, nails biting into my palms. A hot flush spread through me, mixing with the icy prickle of rage. "The only disrespect I see is yours," I countered, my voice rising to match his own. "Respect is not dictated by lineage or wealth, but by skill and character. And your character, it seems, is sorely lacking."
His eyes narrowed, and for a moment, I thought he might lunge at me. The other competitors shifted uneasily, some clearly enjoying the spectacle, others averting their gazes as if afraid to witness the inevitable downfall of an ''outsider''.
But then, a cold determination settled within me. I would not be cowed. With my chin held high, I met his gaze unflinchingly. "Perhaps," I continued, my voice edged with steel, "you should be more concerned with passing the competition. After all, empty threats won''t enhance your skill."
His nostrils flared, and the muscles in his jaw twitched. But some of the fire seemed to drain from his eyes, replaced by a cold calculation. He eyed the rest of the crowd, gauging the reactions. For a long moment, he simply stared at me, a silent battle of wills unfolding in the space between us.
"You''ll regret this, peasant."
Then, abruptly, he turned on his heel, the swirl of his robes a final display of disdain.
I watched him go, my hands clenched into fists at my sides. A victory, yes, but it tasted bittersweet. Duan Jian''s smoldering glare left a prickling sensation on the back of my neck. Had I gotten too cocky? Provoking someone of his caliber likely connections could backfire spectacularly.
"Don''t let him get to you, Kai," Bai Hua said, his voice low. "There are always those who measure worth by lineage and not by skill."
I knew I was gambling. Duan Jian and those like him held influence, they had connections that could make my path impossibly difficult. But as I fixed my gaze on his arrogant sneer, a different kind of fear gnawed at me ¨C the fear of living a life forever on the sidelines, forever underestimated.
"Easy for you to say," I muttered, still tense. "You come from a renowned family, even if they aren''t cultivators. They won''t trash you like they do me and Tao Ren."
Tao Ren''s booming laughter startled me. "They were insulting me? When did that ever happen?"
Despite my lingering annoyance, I couldn''t help but smile. The blacksmith''s obliviousness was something to behold.
As the remaining competitors trickled in, my gaze swept across the room, analyzing each face. Most I didn''t recognize, but over half had been present at the sponsored registry, their robes and demeanors marking them as elite. A pang of insecurity wormed its way into my chest. To think that even with my Memory Palace technique, Accelerated Reading, and a mind-numbing amount of work, over ten people boasted a score higher than me.
The air crackled with anticipation as a new figure appeared in the entrance. A cascade of white hair shimmered under the arena lights, followed by eyes the color of winter ice. It was her, the girl from the Lian clan, representing the Whispering Winds Sect.
An almost reverent hush fell over the gathered alchemists. Even among this group of the best, she held an undeniable presence, her ethereal beauty adding to her mystique. The way others bowed in acknowledgment as she passed, her regal nod in return, it all screamed of her being far more important than I initially thought.
Then, with a confident strut, she walked straight towards me, Bai Hua, and Tao Ren.
Duan Juan seemed busy tidying himself, rearranging the bun on his head and fixing the wrinkles on his robes. As soon as she neared him, he spoke.
"This young master greets-"
She continued forward, not even sparing a glance his way. A shadow loomed over my head, as she finally stopped in front of me, Tao Ren, and Bai Hua.
Stopping directly in front of our small circle, her icy blue gaze landed on me. "So, Kai Liu, it seems you''ve managed to scrape through." There was no warmth in her voice, only a cold assessment.
I squared my shoulders, refusing to be intimidated. "Indeed, and may I have the honor of knowing your name? As fellow competitors, I believe that courtesy is due."
A chilling smile stretched across her lips, a predator sizing up its prey. It mirrored Lan-Yin''s expression whenever she was about to unleash her fury on an unsuspecting Wang Jun. "Jingyu Lian," she finally replied.
A flicker of surprise coursed through me as I noticed the number two emblazoned on the token in her hand. With her imperious attitude and that declaration back when I first encountered her - ''this Gauntlet is no playground for amateurs'' - I''d assumed she would easily snag the top score.
A wry smile tugged at the corner of my lips. I couldn''t resist a small jab. "Quite the surprise, wouldn''t you say, Lady Jingyu? Your words about amateurs ring a bit hollow when you couldn''t secure the first-place spot." I deliberately played up the respectful title, letting a hint of mockery seep into my tone.
Her answering snort was as cold as her gaze. "I hardly expected someone to surpass me," she retorted, her voice sharp as a shard of ice. "Though I suppose it makes for a more interesting challenge."
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Before I could fire back a retort, my gaze flickered over her shoulder, seeing the final entrant who passed the preliminaries.
And there, framed by the entrance to the waiting room, stood a decidedly unassuming figure. He seemed to be in his mid-thirties, with a lackadaisical manner and unkempt appearance. His plain brown robes were wrinkled, his hair in disarray, and there was a smudge of what looked like ink across his cheek.
A collective murmur of surprise rippled through the crowd. No one seemed to know his name, and I couldn''t recall him being present during the registry. Was he one of the non-sponsored competitors?
The newcomer blinked at the sudden attention, a look of mild confusion crossing his face. It seemed he hadn''t even realized he''d caused such a stir.
My own shock mirrored that of the room. The person who secured the top score...was so ordinary-looking. Duan Jian, who''d been glaring at me moments ago, now wore an expression of utter disbelief. It was a strangely satisfying sight.
"It seems," she remarked, a touch of acid in her voice, "that the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet is truly full of surprises."
"Move along now," Ma Hualong chided from behind the man standing by the entrance. He inclined his head and moved to the nearest vacant seat not too far from where I was sitting. Jingyu Lian occupied another seat, two rows down from where we were.
I wanted to talk to the man who scored first place. He seemed approachable enough. But it would have to wait.
Ma Hualong and the other officials stepped past the contestants, going towards the raised platform.
"Welcome, honored competitors," he boomed, his voice echoing through the vast hall. "You stand before us, talented flames, flickering with the potential to become great alchemists." He swept his gaze across the room, his eyes lingering on a few faces, including Jingyu Lian''s. "But remember, the art of alchemy transcends the limitations of youthful vigor."
Ma Hualong chuckled. "Fear not," he reassured us, his voice taking on a gentler tone. "As you may know, the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet is not a competition confined by age, but by cultivation level. Think of it as a way to ensure fairness. Most alchemists at the first stage of Qi Initiation haven''t yet grasped the complexities needed to truly manipulate the alchemical process."
A wave of understanding washed over me. It made perfect sense. Elder Zhu had once told a similar story about how he found his calling for alchemy later in life. This Gauntlet wasn''t just about raw talent, but about the dedication and refinement it takes to become a master alchemist.
"The cap on cultivation ensures what truly matters rises to the surface," Ma Hualong continued. "The strength of your spirit, the keenness of your mind, these are the tools needed for intricate alchemical processes. This allows those who find their passion later in life to compete on equal footing. That is how I began my alchemical journey, and achieved victory here in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet many years ago. With that said, please line up. We will be testing your cultivation rank to ensure you''re below the threshold."
We all shuffled quietly into a line. The test didn''t take very long, evidenced by how quickly the contestants moved up along. Once it was my turn, they grabbed a golden slip. A talisman, of some sort, and placed it on my head.
It glowed for a split-second, before going inert. The official removed it from my forehead and nodded.
"Next!"
The test went by without any issue, so it meant everybody here was basically the same cultivation rank. From the snobby Duan Jian, to Jingyu Lian. It would be a level playing field.
Ma Hualong stood up once more, coughing to gather everyone''s attention. "The best alchemists, the ones whose names echo through history," he said, his voice ringing with conviction, "are lifelong learners. Their pursuit of knowledge is unbound by age or early achievements. The flames of their curiosity burn eternally."
His words struck a chord within me. The enthusiasm and passion in his eyes mirrored Elder Zhu''s. It was a philosophy that resonated deeply, especially knowing the struggles I''d faced as a new competitor in the world of alchemy. Unlike the regimented martial path, where youthful vigor was revered, alchemy seemed to offer a more forgiving path. Here, dedication and a thirst for knowledge could bridge the gap between age and experience. A talented cultivator might reach the first stage of Qi Initiation at fifteen, while another might stumble upon their alchemical calling in their thirties. Yet, within this Gauntlet, both could compete on a relatively even playing field.
Martial arts, on the other hand, were a different beast entirely. Instructor Xia Ji had drilled this into me from the beginning. The years between ten and thirty were a cultivator''s golden age, the time when their bodies were most receptive to the foundational techniques. It was a period of explosive growth, where raw talent and rigorous training could lay the groundwork for a lifetime of martial prowess. Masters might refine their skills over decades, yes, but breakthroughs ¨C the kind that propelled a cultivator to new heights ¨C were measured in decades, not years. Missing those critical foundational years could leave an insurmountable gap, a truth I saw for myself.
The way Li Na and Han Wei moved, it was so fundamentally different to someone like me who started less than a year ago. But I didn''t despair. If there''s anything life has taught me, it''s that hard work can bridge the chasms talent and experience creates.
Bit by bit, day by day, I would inch closer to their level. Whether it was pouring over ancient texts in the library, practicing stances and conditioning outside late at night, I was relentless. If I needed to analyze a move ten times to understand it compared to Li Na''s three, so be it. If it took me twice as long to master a new form, then I would spend twice the time. I might not have been blessed with a strong affinity for martial arts, but I''d overcome challenges before through sheer grit and determination.
I may be seen as the underdog, a ''peasant'' thrust into this high-stakes arena...but I would not yield. I had earned my place here, and I would prove myself worthy, regardless of my age or late start.
Ma Hualong continued his speech, bringing me back to the present.
"So with that, I hope that all of you, regardless of status, age, or background will push the limits of skill and knowledge. Let your spirits blaze with the fire of creation! Now, for the first round..."
He paused, building suspense before revealing the challenge. Come on! Get on with it!
"...Your knowledge was tested in the preliminaries." His voice boomed through the hall. "Now, your application and theory will be put to the test. Seek the ingredients around you to forge your path to the flag hidden in the abyss."
The cryptic clue had an immediate effect. A chorus of whispers erupting as alchemists strained to decipher its meaning. What abyss? What ingredients? My own mind raced, trying to make sense of it. ''Forge your path¡'' could it be a metaphor for creating an elixir?
"Quiet!" Ma Hualong''s voice cut through the din. "There are no set ingredients, nor a single solution." A gleam appeared in his eye, a touch of sly amusement playing on his lips. "The abyss, however¡" he paused, letting the suspense stretch taut, "...is quite literal."
He swept off with a final nod, leaving the room buzzing with energy.
My eyes swept the room, landing on the unassuming man who had caused such a stir. The top scorer ¨C and now, seeing him in the context of Ma Hualong''s speech, he was a testament to the power of perseverance.
A sudden urge to talk to him warred with the nerves coiling in my gut. What if he thought I was presumptuous? Yet, a curiosity about his journey burned within me. I glanced over at Bai Hua and Tao Ren.
"I think I''ll introduce myself to¡ " I gestured towards the unassuming man, the one who reminded me that life wasn''t about starting strong, but about finishing strong. "Be back in a bit."
Leaving them with barely a chance to reply, I made my way across the room, my heart thumping in my chest. It was just an introduction. But it also felt like a leap of faith, a reaffirmation of my resolve.
As I approached the unassuming man, a flicker of surprise crossed his face. He offered a shy smile. "Can I help you with something?"
"I wanted to introduce myself." I extended a hand in a shallow bow. "Kai Liu, Verdant Lotus sect. Congratulations on your impressive showing in the preliminaries."
His smile widened, a warmth entering his eyes. "Thank you. Zhi Ruo, from the Million Book Pavilion. It all feels a bit surreal, to be honest."
My eyebrows shot up. The Million Book Pavilion? That was the largest library in Crescent Bay City. "So, it''s safe to assume you weren''t always an alchemist?"
Zhi Ruo chuckled, a touch of self-deprecation in his voice. "Not exactly. I dabbled a bit, but¡well, recent events changed that. I figured I''d enter the Gauntlet, see how far my newfound abilities could take me."
Intriguing. First a perfumer, then a blacksmith, and now a librarian. I suppose that I shouldn''t have been so apprehensive of my background as a herbalist. There were plenty of people here that made it despite lacking the same pedigree as the other competitors, although I''m inclined to believe this year was much more of an exception rather than the norm. My inner scholar itched to know more, but I zeroed in on his score first. "Speaking of knowledge, any idea what your score was in the preliminaries?"
He shrugged, an air of nonchalance about him that seemed at odds with someone who''d topped the charts. "''Perfect'', they said. Though I suppose that shouldn''t be too surprising, considering my background. But I know knowledge is only half the battle; it''s learning how to use it that''s most important."
Perfect? My competitive spirit sparked. There was something I just couldn''t put my finger on...I shook my head and decided to ask him my most burning question. "Say, do you recall that strange flower in the herb section? Spindly, red, pulsating slightly?"
It was the only one in the herb category that stumped me. But if he scored a perfect, then that means he correctly identified it.
Zhi Ruo''s smile faltered slightly, replaced by a flicker of something akin to¡apprehension? "Ah, yes. That¡that would be a Bloodsoul Bloom," he said slowly. "Commonly known as the flesh flower. It was a tricky one, and I merely ventured out an educated guess based on its described appearance, so I''d understand why you didn''t know."
A shiver ran down my spine. The name sent a chill through me, evoking something far more sinister than any mere plant. "Flesh flower?" I repeated, a sense of foreboding growing in the pit of my stomach.
"Yes." He lowered his voice, casting a furtive glance around as if checking we weren''t overheard. "They''re supposed to be extinct. Or, at least, that''s what the records in the Pavilion claimed."
"Extinct? Do you know why?"
"Because they''re relics of a far darker era," Zhi Ruo explained, his eyes shadowed. "They don''t grow like normal herbs. They¡subsist off blood. A constant, fresh supply. In centuries past, traces of them were found in the territory of demonic cultivators, those who practiced forbidden methods to increase their power. Horrific things," he shuddered.
Terrifying, and more so, impossible to identify. Demonic cultivators were a thing of the past, and haven''t been a problem here for centuries. Records of them were sparse, even among the Verdant Lotus sect''s records. I wonder if they put that in the preliminaries as a way to throw people off.
I lingered for a moment, absorbing Zhi Ruo''s insights, then shifted the topic. "What are your thoughts about the first round? Ma Hualong¡¯s words about forging our path in the abyss were rather cryptic."
Zhi Ruo pondered, his gaze turning inward. "The abyss, to me, signifies the unknown depths of alchemy, where theory meets practice in unexpected ways. I anticipate challenges that will require innovative application of our knowledge, not just recitation."
Intrigued by his perspective, I probed further. "And how do you plan to spend the rest of the day in preparation?"
With a decisive nod, he responded, "I¡¯ll be at the Pavilion, studying. Despite the preliminary success, I can¡¯t afford complacency. The true test is yet to come, and I must be ready."
His dedication sparked a realization in me. Being twelfth was an achievement, but it shouldn''t be the pinnacle of my aspirations. Inspired, I made an impulsive request.
"Would you mind if I joined you at the Million Book Pavilion for study?"
84. First Round Blues
"You look like you''ve seen better days," Bai Hua remarked.
I scoffed at him. I certainly have.
But who could blame me? The Million Books Pavilion was huge! There was no doubt in my mind that the building lived up to its epithet.
Zhi Ruo seemed happy to have a fellow scholarly mind with him. Even though we were technically competitors, he seemed happy to share his knowledge. Either that or he was so sure of his abilities that showing his treasure trove didn''t seem like a threat in the slightest.
That was how I spent my night in the largest library in the city, reading and learning with Zhi Ruo. I spent most of my night just reading about aspects of alchemy I hadn''t seen in the Verdant Lotus sect''s archives. There were no heaven-defying scriptures in there, but all knowledge was good knowledge, in my humble opinion!
I rubbed the back of my neck where a crick had formed from hours spent hunched over books. "I''ve certainly had more restful nights," I admitted, gazing back at the towering silhouette of the Million Books Pavilion. "But the wealth of knowledge in there is worth every second of lost sleep."
Bai Hua nodded, understandingly. "Knowledge is a treasure, especially for aspiring alchemists. Speaking of treasures, your Spirit Beasts, that serpent and butterfly.. they''re quite extraordinary. Do you possess some unique beast-taming skill? Perhaps a fruit borne from the Heavenly Interface?"
I shook my head, a smile forming as I thought of my companions. I trusted them to Feng Wu''s care for the night, not that they needed much. Although I worried for Windy''s voracious appetite, I knew there were plenty of feeding options in the city. And Wind Serpents only needed to eat once every few days. "Nothing of the sort. Our bond isn''t born from skills or techniques. It''s simply because they recognize my aura and potential! They chose to stay with me, not because of some control I exert over them."
Bai Hua laughed before narrowing his eyes thoughtfully. "Intriguing. Such relationships are rare. They speak of a deeper connection, perhaps aligned with your destiny or fate. I had thought it was something from the Heavenly Interface, much like my own abilities."
I nodded my head at that. That was fair. Even for me, the Heavenly Interface was responsible for most of my growth. It gave me skills that accelerated my growth, like Accelerated Reading, and ones that fit the direction I wanted to pursue, like the Crimson Lotus Purification Technique. I worked hard, but the system was the one responsible for rewarding my effort.
"Yours is from the Heavenly Interface?"
Bai Hua¡¯s expression turned solemn. "I believe so, at least a good part of it. Without its aid, even with my expertise, I doubt I would have ventured into this competition. It¡¯s helped me realize and harness my potential in ways I never imagined."
"How so?"
Bai Hua smirked before covering his face with his sleeve in a conspiring manner. "You''ll see in the first round, hohoho!"
As we walked together towards the Marble Jade Arena, I thought back on how many of the competitors benefited from the Heavenly Interface. Likely all of them, but I doubt they experienced it in the same way I did. I wonder what triggering factor there was in place that gave people more from the Interface. I mean, I didn''t see Lan-Yin¡ªdespite her hard work at the tea shop, gain any skills like mine. Was it due to one''s ambition? Some underlying ancestry? Did it pick at random?
If it was at random, it meant a variety of people would benefit from the Interface. Even shady figures like Elder Jun or Xu Ziqing, or annoying ones like Duan Jian.
The Interface was a fickle thing, indeed.
As we neared the Marble Jade Arena, the sheer scale of the crowd outside the main entrance was staggering. People from all walks of life, from the curious townsfolk to the wealthy nobles, thronged the area, all clamoring for a glimpse of the first round¡¯s commencement. The buzz of excited chatter and the occasional shout filled the air, creating a palpable sense of anticipation.
But with so many people, there was bound to be conflict.
A low groan rumbled through the line as we passed through. "Look at this mess!" a portly woman in a thick cerulean robe complained, shivering slightly. "We''ve been here for hours and haven''t budged an inch!"
"Patience, esteemed Madam Li," piped a nervous voice from behind her. "The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet only happens every five years. It''s bound to draw a crowd."
"Patience be hanged!" A burly man with a thick, braided beard slammed his meaty fist into his palm. "I could have concocted three batches of my Ironscale Tincture in the time we''ve been standing here!"
Just then, a young man, shoved his way in front of the burly man. "Coming through, coming through! Make way for a disciple of the illustrious Howling Crane Sect!"
The burly man¡¯s eyes narrowed. "Howling Crane Sect? More like a flock of twittering sparrows, if you ask me. What''s the point of you nitwits coming to watch the Gauntlet? You wouldn''t know true alchemy if it bit you in the¡ª"
"ENOUGH!" A voice boomed, silencing the line. An imposing woman with a fierce expression and yellow robes adorned with the tell-tale symbol of an official. "Do you fools have no respect for decorum? This is a competition for the most skilled alchemists, not a marketplace squabble!"
She glared at the young man who cut in line. "And you, boy! The line starts back there. Unless your Howling Crane Sect teaches nothing but barnyard manners, you''ll rejoin like everyone else."
The young man puffed out his chest, indignation coloring his face. "But¡but I am Wu Long, most esteemed disciple of Master Wei! Surely you wouldn''t dare¡ª"
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The woman snorted. "Wu Long? Cutting in line and spouting nonsense. Your mother must be truly desperate to have saddled a disrespectful brat like you with such a dignified name!"
The line erupted in stifled snickers. Wu Long¡¯s face contorted with rage. "You¡ you take that back, you old shrew!" He lunged for the woman, his fists clenched.
The conflict continued to escalate and remained audible despite us walking further away.
Bai Hua commented. "It seems the Gauntlet has garnered more attention than usual this year..."
I nodded, taking in the spectacle. "More like a grand festival. But we should head to the competitors'' entrance."
Turning away from the teeming masses, we made our way to a less conspicuous entrance marked for participants. The contrast was stark, with only a handful of individuals presenting their tokens to the guards and slipping through the doors.
After showing our tokens, we entered a spacious antechamber, distinct from the main arena yet buzzing with its own undercurrent of energy. It was the same place where the sponsored participants registered.
Here, the air was thick with the concentrated tension of the contestants, each lost in their thoughts or quietly discussing what the first round would potentially be about. It was clear cliques had already formed or been formed prior to the contest.
Even through the thick walls of the antechamber, the muffled roar of the crowd from the arena reached us, a constant reminder of the grand stage upon which we were about to perform. It felt like standing at the edge of a vast, unseen ocean, its waves crashing just beyond sight.
"Nervous?" Bai Hua asked.
"Of course not!" I put up my chin, just like that fellow from the Howling Crane sect did. "I''m as cool as a cucumber, in fact."
"HEY! YOU TWO!"
Tao Ren waved at us, beckoning us to the pillar he was standing by.
"You both ready?"
"As I can be," I said, rubbing my eyes. Perhaps I should''ve drank some of the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn to get me nice and energized. Although perhaps I shouldn''t be so reliant on potions to keep me up, I''d be finding the consequences if I drank it too often.
I scanned over the rest of the contestants. I saw Jingyu Lian leaning across a pillar at the furthest corner of the room, alone by herself. It seemed she was the ''frigid beauty'' type. She had her eyes closed and arms crossed.
Zhi Ruo was absent, although I do remember him still being awake and waving me farewell when I left early in the morning to return to the Jade Harmony Inn. Perhaps he overslept? That''d be quite unfortunate.
"Zhi Ruo isn''t here yet?" I asked Tao Ren.
"Maybe he decided to meditate or do some last-minute prep," Bai Hua suggested.
I chuckled despite my worry. Just then, a commotion at the entrance drew our attention. A figure, disheveled and panting, burst into the antechamber. It was Zhi Ruo, hair a mess, his eyes bloodshot.
He gasped, clutching his side. "I...overslept. Ran all the way from the Pavilion..."
Murmurs spread throughout the contestants, shaking their heads. Jingyu Lian cracked one eye open to gauge Zhi Ruo, although she closed it as soon as her gaze met mine.
"We were getting worried," I said, trying to hide my grin. "Looks like someone was reading a bit too late..."
The librarian groaned, running a hand through his unruly hair. "I completely lost track of time," He shook his head sheepishly. "But no excuses! I''m here now, ready to compete."
Tao Ren thumped him on the back, nearly sending the man tumbling over. "Welcome to the Gauntlet, sleepyhead. Just make sure you and Kai don''t doze off when the round starts!"
The tension in the room began to spike as an official walked onto a small platform at the front of the antechamber. With a booming voice, he announced, "Honored competitors, the first round is about to commence! Prepare yourselves, for the challenge awaits! Please form a line! Single file, please!"
A hush fell over the gathered alchemists. We exchanged nervous glances. "Well," Bai Hua said, his usual cheer replaced by a determined focus, "it seems our theorizing time is over. What do you think, Kai? Does anything about that cryptic clue make sense yet?"
I chewed my lip, trying to make sense of Ma Hualong''s words as we gathered into a loosely formed line. "Seeking ingredients...forging a path...Do you have any memories of the past Gauntlet? What they did?"
"Not me, but my father says it changes each time. Keeps things interesting, I suppose. Last Gauntlet, they had a round where they poisoned the contestants ¨C a mild one, thankfully ¨C and they had to find the ingredients for an antidote within the arena before they succumbed to it."
"WHAT?!"
"Well, the poison was pretty mild, it just kept them in a state of paralysis. They wouldn''t want to kill the contestants."
"Oh," I sighed in relief. I wasn''t enthused about putting my life on the line for the contest, regardless of how much I wanted to win. "Okay, that''s less terrifying. Still, makes me wonder¡maybe this round is like an obstacle course? A hidden flag, somewhere tricky to reach? Like in the dark, if the abyss is anything to go by..."
"That''s a good guess, but I-"
As we followed the line, the antechamber gave way to the vastness of the Marble Jade Arena, which had undergone a dramatic transformation. A sandy expanse stretched before us, bordered by a serene beach on our side and crystal-clear water on the other, mimicking a natural coastal landscape. Scattered across the sand were simplified alchemical stations, each isolated yet part of a larger, intricate setup. It felt like I entered a different dimension; one where the province was still in the midst of summer rather than the approaching winter.
The area was positively teeming with ingredients, ones that all seemed to share common properties...that related to the sea.
Ingredients, flags, abyss...
And just like that, everything clicked.
The previously empty stands now buzzed with life, filled with thousands of spectators. Their collective voices merged into a thunderous roar, echoing the pounding waves of the artificial ocean, their excitement palpable and contagious. The atmosphere was electric, charged with anticipation for the spectacle about to unfold.
"Let''s welcome the contestants!" Ma Hualong shouted from his place in the stands. "With a big round of applause!"
The crowd erupted in applause as we stepped onto the field, the air thick with anticipation and the salty tang of the simulated sea breeze. The setup was grand, each station stocked with an array of exotic ingredients and basic alchemical tools.
Ma Hualong''s voice boomed over the arena, resonating with a clarity that cut through the noise, "Welcome, esteemed contestants and honored guests! Today marks the commencement of a challenge that will not only test our competitors'' alchemical prowess but their ingenuity and resolve."
He continued, outlining the specifics of the challenge, "Before you lies a body of water, deep and daunting. Below its surface, flags are placed at various depths, each representing the continuation of your journey in this gauntlet. Your task is to concoct an alchemical solution that enables you to reach these depths and retrieve a flag."
The rules were straightforward but daunting, and only confirmed what I had thought.
We must use the ingredients available in our surroundings to create an alchemical product that aids in underwater travel and deep diving.
Each contestant must secure their own flag to advance by diving into the water, and they can''t take a person''s flag after they had gotten out.
Only twenty of the hundred participants will move to the next round, based on the order of flag retrieval.
Ma Hualong added a crucial detail, "To ensure fairness and safety, several invigilators will monitor the competition. Any attempt at sabotage or obstruction among contestants will result in immediate disqualification. Remember, this is a test of individual merit and creativity."
"A worthy challenge! Wouldn''t you say, friends?!" Tao Ren boasted.
The revelation of the challenge''s nature sent a murmur through the contestants. Some looked excited, others apprehensive. The depth of the water and the need for a creative alchemical approach to navigate it added layers of complexity to the task.
But for me, I was already planning ahead my moves.
I scanned the area, my mind racing. They''d given us the obvious ingredients for Breath Gel ¨C Tidecaller Vine, Horsetail Pine... but clearly, there weren¡¯t enough for everyone. Which meant the organizers were forcing us to think beyond the standard recipe. There had to be more, less common ingredients hidden within the environment they created here.
A thrill of excitement coursed through me. This was the kind of challenge that separated rote memorization from true alchemy, where ingenuity and adaptation were key! A fitting challenge for the alchemy god, Kai Liu!
While I strategized, a wave of chatter rippled through the crowd above. Ma Hualong''s announcement had ignited their interest.
"Did you hear that? Underwater potions!" A merchant in vibrant silks exclaimed to his companions. "This is going to be fascinating!"
"Hah! Those pampered young alchemists won''t last a minute!" A geezer with sun-leathered skin scoffed. "How many of those upstarts can even swim?"
The crowd''s energy was contagious. I spotted flashes of silver as bets were exchanged, adding another layer of tension to the atmosphere. People were wagering on their favorites, their voices a mix of arrogance and hopeful speculation.
As I tuned back into my friends, Bai Hua and Tao Ren mirrored the crowd''s excitement... but with a focused intensity. Zhi Ruo scratched his head, muttering frantically to himself.
"Water...need something...pressure..."
"Well, Kai," Bai Hua said thoughtfully, "it seems our theories weren''t entirely off the mark. We''ll indeed be looking for the flag in a tricky place!"
Ma Hualong continued, his voice now taking on a note of finality, "And now, to add a twist to our tale, the top ten from the preliminaries will receive a head start!" He gestured grandly towards the side of the arena. "Those in the top ten, step forward!"
The crowd cheered as Zhi Ruo and Jingyu Lian, along with eight others, moved towards the collection of ingredients. The librarian, slightly disheveled from his earlier rush, adjusted his stance, his eyes darting nervously across the selection of resources.
"Contestants will have five minutes to gather their ingredients before the rest of you may begin," Ma Hualong declared. "Your time starts...now!"
85. Beneath the Surface
The top ten moved swiftly, splitting up into two groups ¨C those focused on the Tidecaller Vine, and those, like Zhi Ruo and Jingyu Lian, starting on the Horsetail Pine. A smart initial strategy to create the standard Breath Gel recipe. Jingyu Lian was a blur, swift and precise, while Zhi Ruo struggled to keep up, his movements clumsy. By the time he''d finally sawed off one branch, she''d moved on to the vines, her icy efficiency drawing murmurs from the onlookers.
Meanwhile, I cursed under my breath. The earlybirds had snatched up a hefty chunk of the obvious ingredients. With only enough remaining for a handful more Breath Gel concoctions, things were going to get interesting fast. None of the top ten seemed interested in the Sea Lanterns on the trees, although I suppose it''s no surprise. It was uncommon, the recipe tied to that ingredient¡ªthe Gill Pill¡ªwasn''t as effective as Breathing Gel, and much harder to create.
The less common Gill Pill was my only shot now, and that meant Bubblebloom Algae, which meant a dip in the water.
"Should''ve worn something more...sensible," I muttered, the silk of my robes feeling suddenly extravagant. I''d have to make this count.
"The rest of you, BEGIN!" Ma Hualong''s voice boomed.
I dashed forward, and made it to where the Sea Lantern fruit were growing before anybody else did. Only about two dozen of the contestants had the same idea as me. Tao Ren was scrambling for the last of the Breathing Gel ingredients, Bai Hua was walking leisurely with his nose up, a thoughtful look on his face.
I had no time to worry about them. Securing my chances came first!
Sea Lantern fruits usually had enough to make one pill, so getting two on the off-chance I messed up the recipe should be good. The Sea Lanterns required nothing more than a quick pluck ¨C thank the heavens for small mercies! ¨C and I was already on the move again, heading for the water''s edge. As I jogged, I noticed Duan Jian cornering one of the frantic contestants. A hand rested on the smaller alchemist''s shoulder, his voice low and insistent.
"...heard your family runs a small apothecary, down in the market..." Duan Jian was saying. "The Misty Sky Sect always repays favors tenfold...think of it as an investment for the future."
The other alchemist shifted nervously, glancing around as if searching for an escape route. Duan Jian''s eyes glittered ¨C a predator sensing weakness. My own stomach twisted. Was he coercing ingredients? Bullying someone into helping him? It felt wrong, a violation of the spirit of the competition, but...
I scanned the arena. The invigilators hadn''t reacted. Technically, there was no rule against sharing resources. My gaze snagged on Duan Jian for a moment longer, and his lips curled into a mocking smirk, as though he could read my thoughts. I forced myself to look away, I can''t lose focus on him.
The water''s edge shimmered before me, the sand giving way to the crystal-clear depths. My heart pounded in anticipation. I scanned the surface, spotting the delicate blue globes of Bubblebloom Algae swaying gently with the current just below. A rush of relief washed over me - at least that part of the plan was still on track.
But something else caught my eye. The underwater landscape wasn''t barren, as I''d initially expected. Iridescent clams nestled in the sand, their shells slightly ajar. Strands of gleaming seaweed wove through the water like liquid emerald.
This place was filled with more ingredients than on the floor! So this is how they were going to get the other contestants the ingredients they needed!
First things first, securing that Sea Lantern and algae for the Gill Pills. I couldn''t afford to lose sight of my main objective. I grabbed waded into the water, inwardly lamenting the fact I got my silk robe wet, and grabbed the algae growing just under the water. Giving no basket was smart, because it prevented the competitors from grabbing too many ingredients at once. That didn''t make it any less inconvenient, however, holding two Sea Lantern fruits in my hand as I waded through the water.
Reaching a station, my hands scrabbled for the familiar shape of a furnace, a mortar and pestle. The basics were present, alongside a collection of what I could only assume were commonplace ingredients ¨C things found in both basic elixirs and more unusual concoctions. A smart setup, forcing us to consider what was readily available as well as the treasures found underwater.
My gaze swept across the arena. Already, the top ten were well into their Breath Gel creation, their actions methodical and precise. Jingyu Lian had a small flame flickering beneath her furnace, while others had focused on the grinding process first. It was a familiar dance, and yet, it felt different...the crowd''s energy crackling, the stakes exponentially higher.
Zhi Ruo, still damp from his sprint to the Horsetail Pines, was further behind, his movements more panicked than practiced. By the look of his meager ingredient pile, I suspected he''d run into trouble with acquiring enough to create on proper Breath Gel. I frowned. He had the knowledge...but perhaps lacked the physical ability to keep pace in this round. A pity.
Bai Hua was...as enigmatic as ever. He seemed to be gathering a bit of everything, his movements almost leisurely, a smirk playing on his lips. Was he already planning beyond Breath Gel? Had he noticed the underwater possibilities as I had?
"Focus, Kai!" I gave myself a light slap on the cheek to get my head in the game.
The sun was high, its light scattering dazzling reflections across the surface of the artificial lagoon. I spread out my collected ingredients before me¡ªSea Lantern fruits, Bubblebloom Algae, and a handful of supplemental materials from the station. The creation of the Gill Pill was notorious not just for its difficulty but for the finesse required in handling its volatile components.
First, I crushed the Bubblebloom Algae using the mortar and pestle, the delicate strands releasing a burst of oxygen-rich bubbles as they were ground into a fine, glowing paste. This was the core of the Gill Pill, the element that would allow a cultivator''s lungs to extract oxygen directly from the water.
"COME TO THE JADE FOUNDRY FOR ALL YOUR SMITHING AND ALCHEMY NEEDS!" Tao Ren shouted from afar. I glanced over, seeing him point and wave at the crowd with several ingredients in his arms. What a character. To think he registered just to spread the word of his forge...
Shaking my head, I sliced the Sea Lantern fruit in half, it''s insides shimmering with a bioluminescent gel. This gel was crucial¡ªit acted as a catalyst in the reaction, enhancing the body''s ability to absorb the dissolved oxygen. The slicing had to be precise; too thin and the gel would dry out, too thick and it wouldn''t mix properly with the algae paste.
This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
For a second, I wondered if I should use Essence Extraction; I never used it on this recipe before, so maybe it''s for the best I don''t. Sometimes, the extracted essence doesn''t perform as well as the original recipe due to certain factors. I couldn''t rule out that possibility. Perhaps if I find another ingredient I''m more familiar with, I''ll use it.
With a steady hand, I mixed the algae paste and the Sea Lantern gel in a ceramic bowl, the mixture emitting a faint, ethereal glow. The combination needed to be homogenous, any inconsistency could lead to the pill''s failure, rendering it useless, or worse, toxic.
Once mixed, I carefully transferred the concoction into the pill furnace, a small but crucial piece of equipment for any alchemist. The furnace was already warm, its inner chamber glowing with a soft amber light from the small fire qi I had kindled beneath it using my internal energy. Activating a pill furnace with qi was a delicate process; too much and the ingredients would burn, too little and they wouldn''t transmute.
I started the stirring process, maintaining a steady flow of qi as I worked. The contents of the furnace needed constant, even motion to ensure the energy flowed evenly through the mixture, aiding in the transformation from raw ingredients to a finished, potent pill. This was where the real skill in alchemy came into play¡ªmaintaining a balance of physical effort, spiritual energy, and mental focus.
As I stirred, I could feel the resistance in the mixture begin to lessen, a sign that the transmutation was nearing its completion. The glow from the mixture began to stabilize, shifting from a bright, erratic flash to a steady, pulsating light.
"Almost there," I muttered to myself, beads of sweat forming on my brow.
Just as I began focusing on the careful temperature adjustments required for the final stages, a jarring splash ripped my attention away. A wave of water cascaded over me, the sudden chill raising goosebumps on my skin.
"Whoops! Clumsy me!" Duan Jian''s voice echoed, dripping with false concern. In the commotion, he''d overturned an entire bucket of water, and a good portion had landed squarely on me.
I sputtered, momentarily blinded, my precious concoction splattered with cold droplets. Fury bubbled in my chest. I wanted to wipe that grin off his face.
"You did that on purpose!" My accusation rang across the sandy beach.
Duan Jian merely shrugged, the picture of nonchalance. "An accident, I assure you," he said, but the gleam in his eyes told a different story.
"An accident?! You were an accident, you son of a¡ª!"
I scanned the area. An invigilator was approaching, his expression stern. Before I could argue further, the invigilator spoke, his voice carrying over the arena. "While a bit...unfortunate, it appears to have been an unintended mishap. However, any further attempts at deliberate disruption, Competitor Duan, will result in immediate disqualification." His gaze bore into the man, a clear warning.
Duan Jian bowed slightly, a mocking smile still plastered on his face. "Of course, Invigilator. My sincerest apologies."
Seething, I returned to my furnace. Despite the setback, my mixture seemed salvageable. I blocked most of the water with my back, now my entire body was dripping wet. Wiping the water from my brow, I took a deep breath to regain my composure. Sabotage or not, I wouldn''t be derailed.
My focus narrowed onto the task at hand. The aroma of the mixture intensified, turning from a fresh, oceanic scent into something sharper, almost metallic. This was the crucial moment. The fire had to be quenched at precisely the right time. Too soon, and the pill''s effectiveness would be compromised. Too late, and the entire thing could explode into a puff of smoke.
With a practiced flick of my wrist, I extinguished the qi, plunging the furnace into darkness. The glow from the mixture pulsed faintly, the rhythm slowing, stabilizing. My shoulders slumped slightly in relief. It seemed I''d salvaged it. A small victory.
I took out the contents, a light-blue clump of powder, that I''d need to arrange into proper pill form. I pinched a sample and felt it on my fingertip, and noticed that the texture was lacking. That singular moment of distraction had netted me a worse result than I would''ve otherwise had. If I had to guess, this batch of Gill Pills could get me underwater for only ten to fifteen minutes.
From afar, I could see Zhi Ruo in a panic. He seemed...lost. Looking at my spare Sea Lantern fruit, I decided my next course of action.
"Zhi Ruo! You don''t have enough for a Breath Gel, do you?"
He looked up, his expression forlorn and slightly embarrassed, nodding in confirmation. The tight set of his shoulders spoke volumes about the pressure he felt.
"Here, catch!" I called out, tossing one of the Sea Lantern fruits towards him. He fumbled slightly but managed to catch it. "You know the recipe for the Gill Pill, right? Use it," I said, trying to bolster his spirits with a smile.
Zhi Ruo''s eyes widened in surprise, a mix of relief and gratitude washing over his face. "But how can I repay you for this?" he stammered, his usual composure slipping in his urgency.
"Don''t worry about it," I replied, brushing off his concern with a wave of my hand. "Just grant me free access to all those secret tomes in the Million Books Pavilion, and we''ll call it even."
His laugh was shaky, but genuine. "It''s a deal, Kai. You have no idea how much this means to me."
I nodded, satisfied with the arrangement. "Just make it worth your while, and mine. Now, get to work, the clock¡¯s ticking!"
"Thanks, Kai. And, listen," he lowered his voice, glancing towards the shimmering expanse of water, "breathing underwater isn¡¯t the only thing you should be worried about."
I paused in the midst of organizing my workstation, raising an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
He gestured subtly towards the artificial lagoon. "It¡¯s darker than it looks. The farther down you go, the murkier it gets. If you can¡¯t see, finding those flags is going to be more than a little difficult."
I cursed under my breath. Of course, visibility! In my focus on breathing underwater, I had completely overlooked the simple fact that I needed to see what I was doing. "Good point," I admitted, a new wrinkle of concern furrowing my brow.
He nodded, then turned back to his station, leaving me to ponder this new challenge. Visibility. I needed something that could illuminate the dark waters. My eyes scanned the available ingredients, none of which were particularly known for their luminescent properties.
Then it hit me ¡ª the Essence Extraction technique. My essences always glow, so if I just get one into a vial, I could just use it as a lamp of some sort. Any ingredient would do, honestly.
As I said that, I saw Jingyu Lian go up to the water with her completed Breath Gel concoction.
The icy maiden approached the water¡¯s edge, her composed demeanor unshaken by the crowd¡¯s fervent murmurs. In her hands, she held the container of her Breath Gel. With a fluid motion, she upended the container, pouring its contents onto the water''s surface. The gel spread quickly, forming a thin, shimmering layer that seemed almost like a second skin on the liquid¡¯s surface.
She took a moment to survey her work, ensuring coverage, then, with a grace that spoke of her confidence and skill, she dipped herself headfirst into the gel-coated water. As she submerged, the gel adhered to her skin seamlessly, forming a semi-permeable membrane that clung to her like a second skin.
From the sidelines, I watched in awe and a bit of envy. The membrane was a brilliant application of alchemy¡ªallowing oxygen to pass through while filtering out the water and maintaining a stable internal pressure. It was ingenious, her ability to utilize the Breath Gel not just effectively but perfectly. Jingyu Lian had managed to create enough gel to cover her entire body, which was no small feat. It indicated that her measurements and technique were flawless, with absolutely no wastage of ingredients. This level of precision was what made her a formidable competitor.
The realization struck me hard. If she could maximize her resources to that extent, I needed to up my game, especially now that I was aware of the visibility issue in the water.
With this new problem to solve, I turned back to my own station. Pulling out a small vial, I selected a few strands of the luminous algae I had set aside earlier. Though not as naturally bright as the Sea Lantern fruit, when concentrated, they could emit a sufficient glow.
Utilizing the Essence Extraction technique, I carefully drew out the luminescent essence of the algae. As the extraction proceeded, the essence began to glow brightly within the vial, its light piercing the surroundings of my workstation.
The algae¡¯s essence filled a portion of the vial, casting shadows as it intensified in brightness. Satisfied with the potency, I sealed the vial, now a makeshift lamp that would illuminate the murky depths below.
"Thanks for the tip, Zhi Ruo," I murmured, though he was too engrossed in his own work to hear. His earlier advice had been invaluable, and this glowing vial was my answer to the challenges that lay beneath the water''s surface.
Securing the vial to my belt, I prepared myself for the dive. With the Gill Pills and my new source of light, I felt ready to face whatever lay hidden in the depths of the lagoon. The other contestants had already begun to dive in, spurred on by Jingyu Lian. There was no time to waste!
Popping the pill in my mouth, I dove in without hesitation.
The water closed over me, a sudden chill that sent a shiver down my spine. For a terrifying moment, panic flared ¨C a primal, instinctive fear. Then, the Gill Pill kicked in. My lungs expanded, a gasp that turned into a breath...underwater.
Relief washed over me, mingled with a jolt of awe. It worked! I could breathe here. I kicked my legs, propelling myself deeper, the glimmering vial at my waist cutting a path through the increasingly murky water.
The bottom of the lagoon wasn''t visible, the depths shrouded in an unsettling gloom. How did they construct this over night? This was incredibly deep!
The light from my vial, though strong, only illuminated a few chi around me. Shapes loomed and vanished in the periphery of my vision ¨C were they rocks, or contestants? My heart pounded against my ribs. It was unsettling, being under the sea.
...No way they put anything underwater, right? Nothing that would eat an unsuspecting contestant?
I scanned the area, my eyes adjusting to the dimness. There! A glimmer in the distance. Was that a flag? Adrenaline thrummed through my veins. I kicked harder, my focus narrowing, the rest of the world fading into blurry insignificance.
86. Underwater Gauntlet
Through the murky water and sediment, the silhouette became clearer. In fact, it was moving too-
"Wargh!" I screamed, causing the noise to be warbled due to the presence of water. I veered off to the side, which was immensely difficult considering I was weightless here.
Jingyu Lian passed by me, almost butting heads. Her eyes were wide with focus, a flag gripped tightly in her hand. She didn''t even glance my way as she continued her blind, frenzied swim toward the surface. The sight was almost comical, if not for the urgency that propelled her.
As she darted away, I couldn''t help but notice the state of her Breath Gel. The protective layer that should have formed a stable, semi-permeable membrane around her was disintegrating, peeling off in patches like old paint. Something was off. Breath Gel, especially when prepared correctly, should last at least half an hour under these conditions. Yet hers was failing after merely five minutes. What could have caused such rapid degradation?
I continued my descent, my mind racing as much as my limbs. The water grew colder, the light dimmer, and then I felt it rather than saw it¡ªthe unsettling brush of Slickweed Kelp against my legs. A vast field of it lay at the lagoon''s bottom, swaying gently in the underwater currents.
Why was there so much of it here?
Slickweed Kelp was a common enough component in several alchemical recipes I knew, most notably in solvents.
That was it¡ªsolvents! The kelp''s most prominent feature was its ability to dissolve certain compounds, one of which was the alchemical gel used in Breath Gel. Jingyu Lian must have accidentally swam through a patch of it while fetching her flag, causing the protective gel to break down prematurely.
I suppose it was a way to trick those who thought they had it easy using the Breath Gel; my Gill Pill was focused on internal effects, and dispelling that was beyond the effect of any regular plant, unless I ate it.
It seems like those contestants with the Breath Gel would be in for a nasty surprise once they landed. No matter, I needed to secure my flag.
Internally, I was keeping track of how long I had. The fact I had a light source and didn''t have to worry about the Slickweed Kelp made it less stressful for me.
''There!''
As I drew closer, the shape became more distinct¡ªit was indeed a flag, anchored securely in a crevice, untouched by the surrounding kelp. A surge of excitement shot through me. I reached out, my fingers closing around the fabric. It was real¡ªI had found one of the coveted flags!
Clutching the flag, I took a moment to survey my surroundings. The kelp loomed ominously, a reminder of the ever-present danger it posed. My breath, albeit artificial, came in steady rhythms, and the glow from my vial cast an eerie light on the seafloor''s hidden crevices. An idea began to brew in my mind...
Collecting several pieces of the Slickweed Kelp, I carefully extracted its essence, creating a green ball of light. Because of the sheer amount, there was enough to form a fist-sized glob. Swimming closer to the surface, where light was allowed to permeate the floor. Taking my second Gill Pill, I popped it to allow me some additional time.
I looked upward, if my count was correct, Duan Jian should be...
His gaudy robes were hard to miss, even underwater. The Breath Gel covered him, although it was misshapen and uneven in certain places, showing just how inferior he was to Jingyu Lian when making the Breath Gel.
Swimming to where he was descending, I made sure to stay out of the way as I released the Slickweed Kelp extract into the water, turning into a thin stream of glowing, green energy. It was hard to predict where the essence would go, but because I had so much, I was able to spread it over a wide area.
I swam upward, feeling the cold seep into my bones. Despite the pill''s effects, it couldn''t protect me from the chill of being in the deep water. I was beginning to feel light-headed.
As Duan Jian continued to descend, his trajectory seemed to head straight for the glowing green essence, likely seeing it as some sort of sign that the flag was there. Almost immediately, I could see the Breath Gel sloughing off his body. I couldn''t hear it, but I could see him thrashing around in a panic, as the thing that protected him from being soaked and allowing him to defend against the pressures of diving began to crumble.
Hahaha! Seeing it was so cathartic. It''s like like karma was catching up to him. That''s what he gets for messing with this invincible young master! A frog in a well, challenging a phoenix like yours truly!
Still clutching my hard-won flag and fueled by a surge of wicked delight, I kicked toward the surface. Lungs burning, I battled against the water''s resistance, each upward stroke feeling like a mile. The world above shimmered, tantalizingly out of reach.
Breaking the surface, I gasped, air flooding my grateful lungs. The cool breeze was a shock after the icy depths. I blinked against the blinding light within the arena, blinking away salty water. For a moment, the only sound was the frantic beating of my heart and my ragged breaths.
Then, the cheers of the crowd hit me like a wave. I glanced around, and my heart swelled. I closed my eyes, focusing my hearing to hear what the crowd was saying.
"Move aside, runt! Can''t you see the Ice Queen has emerged? Such perfection!"
"Out of the way, out of the way!" A high-pitched voice shrieked. "Some of us want a proper look at Master Bai! Did you see his muscles? Like carved jade!"
I snapped my eyes open. What was going on up there?
Why was I being ignored like some discarded ingredient? My gaze followed the crowd, settling on Bai Hua, coming out of the water with a flag in hand.
"Did he put something on?" I muttered under my breath. His skin glistened, and, oddly enough, seemed to repel the remaining water droplets rolling across his form. It looked like the Breath Gel, but much thinner. How did he get there so quickly?
"Tsk. Show-off," I grumbled, crossing my arms. The spectacle unfolding in front of me was infuriatingly absurd. Had the crowd completely forgotten about the actual competition? Weren''t they here for alchemy, not some kind of physique showcase?
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"You there! Competitor! Out of the way!" A portly woman screeched, brandishing a fan menacingly. "Don''t obscure the view!"
"Unbelievable," I mumbled. Was this what fame felt like? To be acknowledged, then instantly forgotten, swept aside by a fickle crowd chasing after the next shiny thing?
I sulked and trudged forward, the weight of the flag in my hand a small comfort against the dismissal of my efforts. Yet, a part of me couldn''t help but revel in the silent victory over Duan Jian. As I glanced back, I saw him floundering as the remnants of his Breath Gel dissolved completely, his frantic movements betraying his panic.
As I reached the edge of the water, the crowd''s focus shifted momentarily towards me. A few scattered claps acknowledged my return, but it was clear that the drama and spectacle provided by the others had overshadowed my methodical, albeit successful, strategy. Making eye-contact with Bai Hua, he smiled at me and waved.
"Looks like we''re both making it to the next round."
"Yeah, but how''d you get a flag so quickly? You didn''t even have the full ingredients needed for Breath Gel."
He retrieved a narrow-necked vial, one that was similar to the sample he gave me from before. Grabbing my hand, he applied it, and I felt the substance quickly spread along my arm. I touched it, noting how slippery it was, like handling mucus.
"I made a degraded version, one that enhances the gel aspect using the Tidecaller Vine''s sap. Not only does it help with surface resistance to help me swim faster," He touched his face. "It makes your skin supple and smooth."
Of course...As expected of the Summer Sun Cosmetic heir.
Only about fifty people remained on land, still creating their concoctions. We both walked past the remaining contestants, many of whom stared at the flags in our hands with visible jealousy. Some hastened their efforts, feeling the pressure as two flags were selected.
"Damn it all!"
Duan Jian clambered onto the shore, coughing and sputtering, a picture of disheveled desperation. His eyes, red-rimmed and wild, flickered between the dwindling crowd and those of us who had successfully obtained flags. When they finally landed on me, they narrowed, his lips twisting into a snarl.
Hahaha! Revenge is a dish best served cold, after all!
"You!" he sputtered, pointing an accusing finger. "You...this was some kind of trick, wasn''t it?"
"Me? I would never do such a thing. It goes against my principles as an alchemist," I said. "It''s quite unfortunate that your concoction failed, but there''s plenty of time to try again. Or perhaps beg for ingredients..."
If looks could kill, I''d be a messy pile of ashes by now.
My gaze swept across the remaining contestants, who were frantically grinding, stirring, and mixing with renewed urgency. I caught sight of Zhi Ruo, his brows furrowed in concentration, muttering under his breath as he carefully added ingredients to his mortar. He looked up as I approached, his face splitting into a hopeful grin.
"Kai! You did it!" The librarian said with a grin. "And thanks again for the Sea Lantern fruit¡I think I''ve managed to make the Gill Pill."
"Good to hear," I responded with a nod, feeling a sense of camaraderie. "Make sure to grab a flag before they''re all gone, though. Time''s ticking."
As Zhi Ruo nodded and turned back to his work with renewed vigor, Bai Hua and I made our way to the invigilators'' table to hand over our flags. The official behind the table nodded at us, marking something on a large, leather-bound ledger.
"Congratulations, Kai Liu, Bai Hua," Ma Hualong said, his voice neutral but his eyes flickering with a hint of respect.
We nodded and stepped back, watching as the official raised his voice to make the announcement. "Attention, competitors! Fifteen flags remain!"
The crowd stirred, some with renewed hope, others with despair. It was a stark reminder of the brutal nature of this competition¡ªonly the quickest, the cleverest, or the luckiest would advance.
Bai Hua and I retreated to the interior, a makeshift lounge where those who had secured their flags could wait out the rest of the round. Jingyu Lian was already there, now changed into simpler, dry attire.
She barely acknowledged us as we entered. I simply closed my eyes and turned away. All I had to do here was prove her wrong, and by making the first round, I already had.
Several others were there too¡ªthree other competitors who had managed to secure their flags early. They were engaged in quiet conversation, their expressions a mix of relief and anticipation. I didn''t know them well, but their faces were familiar from the briefings and the opening ceremony.
As I settled into a seat, my clothes still damp and clinging uncomfortably to my skin, a couple of officials approached us.
"Gentlemen, if you''d like, we can take your clothes for drying," one of them offered, gesturing to a secluded area set up with privacy screens and a variety of alchemical heaters.
"Thank you," I said, standing. The prospect of warm, dry clothes was too good to pass up. Bai Hua and I followed them, passing our soggy garments to be treated.
While waiting for our clothes, Bai Hua leaned against a partition, his gaze thoughtful. "This round is more intense than I expected," he mused.
As we spoke, we could hear the sounds of the arena¡ªthe cheers, the splashes, the occasional shout of triumph or frustration. It was a symphony of competition, each note a reminder of the stakes at play. We talked further about who we knew that could make it here.
"Speaking of which, what do you think about Tao Ren''s chances?" I asked, turning to Bai Hua. Despite the casualness of my tone, I was genuinely curious. Tao Ren had marketed himself as a simple blacksmith, but his earlier enthusiasm and the way he''d handled himself suggested there might be more to him.
Bai Hua''s eyes flicked towards the area where Tao Ren was working, his expression contemplative. "From the brief moments I observed, Tao Ren is much more capable than he lets on," he said thoughtfully. "His approach to alchemy stems more from practicality than theoretical knowledge, a stark contrast to Zhi Ruo."
"That''s interesting," I mused, rubbing my chin. The idea that practical skills could sometimes outweigh theoretical knowledge in certain situations wasn''t new, but it was always fascinating to see it in action.
At that moment, the officials returned with our dried clothes, a relief that was almost palpable. I quickly changed back into my now warm and comfortable attire, feeling a renewed sense of vigor.
As we settled back to observe the ongoing competition, my thoughts drifted to the remaining contestants below. The arena was a flurry of activity, with the remaining competitors fiercely working on their concoctions. Through the crystal-clear water wall, I watched as each one scrambled to secure one of the dwindling number of flags.
Even though I harbored a strong dislike for Duan Jian, I couldn''t help but grudgingly respect his ability to work under pressure. He was already back in the water, his movements calculated and desperate as he tried to concoct another batch of Breath Gel.
My gaze then shifted to Jingyu Lian. Having witnessed her skill firsthand, I knew that even my well-practiced methods might not measure up to hers in a direct contest. Her precision and efficiency were something to behold, and I realized I would need to rely heavily on my unique talents like Essence Extraction if I hoped to stand any chance of winning the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet.
Just then, a commotion snapped me out of my thoughts. Emerging from the water with a triumphant splash, Tao Ren surfaced, a flag in one hand and, oddly enough, a clam clamped firmly in his mouth. The crowd erupted into cheers and laughter as he waved his flag, his other hand making a grand gesture towards the Jade Flame Foundry banner draped nearby.
I even heard a few swoons from the women admiring his musculature.
''I have muscles too...It''s just hidden under my robes...''
"Only at Jade Flame Foundry! We''re taking commissions after the Gauntlet! For all your alchemy and smithing needs!" he shouted after spitting out the clam, his voice booming across the arena. His antics drew a mixture of admiration and amusement from the spectators.
I watched, dumbfounded by his unconventional methods, as he walked over to where Bai Hua and I were sitting, a wide grin splitting his face.
"Did you just... swim with a clam in your mouth?" I asked, incredulous as he plopped down beside us, still dripping. "How did you sneak a banner into the arena?"
Tao Ren chuckled, holding up the clam for us to see. "Ah, this little beauty? Pearl Diver clams¡ªthey''re nifty little buggers. Used it as a makeshift air reservoir, works well when you combine it with some of the Breath Coral. Not the most orthodox method, but hey, it worked!"
I didn''t even ponder the idea of using the clams as an ingredient. As I took the clam from his hand, I noticed how it had a natural contour on the shell that could fit around a human''s lips.
"These guys have siphon-like appendages on the inside. If you just fiddle with it, it can take you from the bottom of the water and back."
Bai Hua made a face. "Breathing through that doesn''t seem pleasant at all."
I raised an eyebrow, impressed despite myself. "And the Breath Coral? Did you use it to enhance the clam''s properties?"
"Sorta just mashed them together in my palm with some Tidecaller sap leftover. It wasn''t precise, but it formed a sort of pulpy mix that seemed to do the trick. Once you slather it on the clam, it''ll make these large air bubbles you can breathe from."
Listening to him, it dawned on me that Tao Ren was an instinctual alchemist. He understood how things reacted and worked together not through studied knowledge but through a hands-on, trial-and-error approach. That was something I couldn''t do. Perhaps this strategy only worked because of his strong physique; if I tried to accomplish what he did, I would''ve run out of time and sunk like a stone.
"I learned a lot of this stuff when I was a kid," Tao Ren continued, a faraway look in his eyes as he remembered. "Old man used to try and teach me the finer points of alchemy, but I only stuck with what I thought was useful. Turns out, it really came in handy today."
Laughing, I shook my head. "Well, it certainly paid off. You''ve got a knack for making the most out of unusual situations."
As we chatted, my gaze wandered back to the water. The competition was winding down, with only a few flags left. The intensity of the remaining contestants was palpable; each one desperate not to be left behind. Duan Jian rose from the depths with an ugly expression on his face, trudging over to hand his flag in to Ma Hualong, glaring at me viciously as he passed by me.
"Two flags remain!"
Each competitor here brought something unique to the table, showcasing the wide array of approaches and innovations that alchemy could foster. From Jingyu Lian''s precise technique to Tao Ren''s resourceful pragmatism, and even Duan Jian''s fierce determination under pressure¡ªeach had proven themselves a formidable opponent. Yet as I peered over the water''s edge, my focus settled on Zhi Ruo.
As the top contender from the preliminaries, I had expected more from him. But he seemed to lack the practical skills to effectively apply his vast knowledge. Many of the older contestants also struggled with this challenge, either unable to keep up with the physical demands of the task or the pace required to swim deep underwater, even with alchemical aids. Was it unfair? Perhaps. But as I scanned the crowd, noting the flurry of bets and the spectators'' animated discussions, I realized that the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet was as much a spectacle as it was a test of alchemy skills.
''Come on, Zhi Ruo! Don''t let it end here...!"
87. First Round Conclusions
Another person rose from the water. I recognized the brown-haired woman because she looked like Lan-Yin; one of the top ten contestants. It seemed everybody who got first dibs for the Breath Gel made it through without any issues.
"One flag remaining!"
The crowd''s interest was reaching its crescendo. Many hurled curses at the remaining competitors, either for losing the crowd their bets or for giving up. The body language was visible from here; shoulders sagged, eyes facing downward...Many of the participants had given up already.
I felt my stomach churn as Ma Hualong''s voice echoed, announcing only one flag left. My gaze was locked on the water''s surface, each ripple a tease, a hint of movement from below. Come on, Zhi Ruo. The whispers and jeers around me were like a tightening coil in my gut.
"Zhi Ruo''s just lucky," scoffed Duan Jian, his voice loud enough to carry over the murmurs of the crowd. "Preliminaries mean nothing in the real challenge!"
Several of the other contestants nodded their hands in silent agreement. All of them seemed to hold some sort of prestige or renown, based on their gaudy outfits and serious expressions. Even with my strong results, it felt like they weren''t taking me seriously as a competitor.
I clenched my fists, feeling the tension knot further in my chest. The desire for him to surface with that last flag wasn''t just about seeing a friend succeed¡ªit was about proving these doubters wrong.
The crowd''s restlessness mirrored my own internal turmoil. Every second stretched longer, the weight of the final flag heavy in the air. Parents shuffled, children stood on tiptoes, all eyes fixed on the shimmering blue that had become the arena for this spectacle.
"Useless! He''s too slow," someone else shouted, a sneer in his tone.
I scanned the water''s edge, the cool breeze off the lake doing nothing to soothe the heat of my frustration. How can they judge so harshly from the comfort of their seats? Alchemy isn''t just about speed or flashiness¡ªit''s about precision, understanding, and sometimes, sheer endurance. Making the Breath Gel or Gill PIll was immensely difficult given the circumsta-
A splash.
A collective gasp swept through the crowd, snapping all heads towards the source. A figure emerged, gasping for breath, his hands empty. It wasn''t Zhi Ruo.
Disappointment crashed over me, but I shoved it away, replaced instantly by renewed hope. He¡¯s still down there. He can still make it.
The invigilators started to murmur among themselves, glancing at their timepieces and then back at the still water. The last flag... was it claimed? The tension was palpable, almost a physical presence that pressed down on all of us watching.
Then, another splash. Louder, closer.
He emerged.
Zhi Ruo''s head broke the surface, water sluicing off his face, his hair plastered to his skull. And there, in his right hand, clutched with a grip that spoke of no intention to let go, was the final flag.
A cheer erupted from some, a stunned silence from others. Duan Jian¡¯s group was momentarily speechless, their sneers wiped clean.
The librarian¡¯s eyes met mine across the distance, a flash of triumphant relief visible even from afar. I couldn''t help but smile back, pride swelling within me. He¡¯d done it. Against the odds, under pressure, and in the face of doubt, he¡¯d proven himself.
As he swam to shore, the crowd''s energy shifted, some cheering, others muttering about their lost bets. But none of that mattered. Zhi Ruo had shown them all. He wasn¡¯t just a scholarly alchemist with theoretical knowledge; he was a competitor in his own right.
"UWOHHH! WHAT A MAN!" Tao Ren shouted, looping his arms around my and Bai Hua''s neck while jumping like a maniac.
"Get off me! Can''t! Breathe!" The perfumer wheezed, trying to escape the chokehold. I struggled similarly as well. What on earth was Tao Ren made of?! It took a fair bit of effort to get him off.
All the contestants'' shoulders seemed to droop even further, looking at Zhi Ruo as he walked past them all with a multitude of emotions; anger, jealousy, resignation...Eighty people were eliminated, just like that.
Ma Hualong shouted at the top of his lungs as the contest came to a close.
"THE FIRST ROUND IS OVER!" His voice boomed through speakers enchanted for clarity, reverberating across the arena.
The crowd erupted, the noise a mix of jubilation, disappointment, and the sharp exhalations of those holding their breaths. Zhi Ruo, drenched and panting, stood beneath the arena wall, the flag still clutched white-knuckled in his fist. As Ma Hualong''s announcement registered, a grin split his face, wider and more genuine than I''d ever seen.
We watched as Ma Hualong stepped onto a raised platform. His gaze swept the arena, and the crowd quieted, a ripple of anticipation washing over the spectators.
"Competitors, congratulations on reaching this stage," he began, his voice carrying an undercurrent of authority. "But the true challenge has only just begun. Those who have failed, learn from this setback. There is no shame in defeat, only in not learning from it."
A few of the unsuccessful contestants looked up, their faces tight, but most kept their heads bowed. Ma Hualong nodded solemnly, then raised a hand.
At his signal, an enormous scroll unfurled from the ceiling¡ªa list, I realized, written in elegant calligraphy. As names glowed one by one, a collective gasp swept the arena. There, near the top, Zhi Ruo''s name shone brightly, followed by the names of the nineteen others who had secured a flag. My own name was there too, further down, along with Tao Ren, Bai Hua, Duan Jian, and Jingyu Lian''s.
"However, the ones who made it deserve a reward; not just for their skill, but for their perseverance and clever use of their knowledge under pressure," Ma Hualong continued, his voice swelling with pride. "Each of you will be granted a unique opportunity¡ªunrestricted access to choose any ingredient from the Alchemist Association''s vault. This vault is filled with treasures of great value and rarity, collected to both promote this tournament and empower its participants."
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I didn''t know they gave rewards like these! I could only imagine what sort of treasures were available in their vaults!
Ma Hualong''s eyes twinkled as he let the information sink in. "And let me remind you," he added, his voice dropping to ensure everyone leaned in, "the further you advance in the rounds, the more treasures you will be allowed to claim. The ultimate reward awaits the winner, an honor that will define your career as an alchemist."
I felt a surge of adrenaline at the thought. The vault! To have such an opportunity was beyond what I had imagined when I first entered this competition. My mind raced with the possibilities¡ªwhat could I discover there?
"Please, visit the Alchemist Association''s building tomorrow at any time you wish to collect your reward. The next round is in two days, giving you all some time to prepare and relax."
As the group left the artificial lagoon, the cheers of the crowd began to fade into a dull roar, then silence. The thrill of the crowd was replaced by a quiet anticipation as we walked back through the corridors leading to the competitors'' area.
I felt a mix of exhilaration and tension. The chance to access the vault was a game-changer. I needed to play my cards right. What was the best thing to grab from the vault?
As we reached the area where competitors could relax and gather their belongings, I bid farewell to Bai Hua, Tao Ren, and Zhi Ruo. Zhi Ruo, still damp from his time in the water, clasped my hand with a grateful look.
"Kai, I can¡¯t thank you enough. If it wasn¡¯t for you, I wouldn¡¯t have made it past the first round," he said earnestly, water dripping from his hair.
I shook my head, dismissing his thanks with a light smile. "You owe me nothing, Zhi Ruo. Just make sure you choose wisely at the vault tomorrow."
As I turned to leave, someone blocked my path.
Jingyu Lian approached, her white hair stark against the deep blue of her eyes, which scrutinized me intently. "That Gill Pill of yours was quite shoddy. The texture was inconsistent, and your timing and heat control were mediocre. Even from a distance, it was clear your recipe wasn¡¯t up to par."
This rude girl! Did she neglect the fact that Duan Jian spilled water on me in the middle of my work?
Her words stung, more because they were true than anything else. My first instinct was anger, but I caught it, turning the edge of my response into something smoother, more pointed. "Watching me that closely, huh? Must be because you know I¡¯m a threat."
Her lips tightened. "Don¡¯t flatter yourself too much. The next round will show just how wide the gap is between us," she retorted, her tone icy.
"Clearly it can''t be that wide, since your Breath Gel was breaking down so quickly under the water!"
She stomped towards me, affronted. "That''s because of the Slickweed Kelp, you dolt! Not because of a mistake on my part!"
I rolled my eyes, talking in a falsetto tone. "You''ll regret underestimating the Jianghu, look at me, I''m the infallible Jingyu Lian! I''d never make a mistake!"
My impression of her words from our last meeting rang true, and she flushed red.
"You''re...You''re insufferable!" she sputtered, finally finding her voice.
I grinned, enjoying her frustration a little too much. "Takes one to know one," I retorted. "Seems like an oversight for someone of your¡ supposed caliber."
Her eyes narrowed. "I don''t need to explain myself to the likes of you." She spun on her heel, but not before throwing over her shoulder, "Just know this, Kai Liu. The next round is where the real competition begins. Don''t get too comfortable."
I waved her off. There were more important things to worry about other than some snobby aristocrat. How was I going to find Feng Wu?
"...And he accused me of sabotaging him! Can you believe it?"
"Well, did you?"
"...That''s neither here nor there."
Feng Wu looked at me sternly.
I sighed, stirring my soup absentmindedly. His eyebrows had arched ever so slightly¡ªa clear sign he was gearing up for one of his ''wisdom drops.'' "Like throwing a stone in your own road," he finally said, his voice steady and firm. "It might trip up your enemy, but it¡¯s you who¡¯ll have to walk that path again."
I pushed the food around my plate, the irony of his words sinking in. He was right, of course. In my eagerness to get back at Duan Jian, I had nearly compromised my own standing in the competition. Still, the satisfaction of seeing him flounder had been too sweet to resist at the moment.
"I know, I know," I muttered, more to my food than to him. "It won¡¯t happen again."
Feng Wu nodded, seemingly appeased by my response.
"Is Duan Jian from a powerful clan?" I asked, pouring him some more tea.
"They''re more wealthy than powerful," he responded, picking at a piece of tofu with his chopsticks. "But wealth often equates to power in its own right. And regardless of their actual strength, it¡¯s unwise to provoke them so needlessly."
The restaurant buzzed around us, the clatter of dishes and murmur of conversations. Wealthy, not powerful¡ªyet wealth could muster resources, sway opinions, perhaps even influence judges. I mean, he convinced a few participants to part with some of their ingredients during the first round.
I thought about the various competitors, the alliances forming, the quiet exchanges of favors and promises. This competition was as much about navigating these treacherous social undercurrents as it was about alchemical prowess.
"So, they could make things difficult for me?" I asked, trying to gauge just how much I should worry.
"Possibly," Feng Wu replied, his tone noncommittal but his eyes sharp. "It¡¯s always prudent to choose your battles wisely, especially when the stakes are as high as they are now."
I nodded, a plan beginning to form. Avoiding direct confrontations with Duan Jian might be wise, but that didn¡¯t mean I couldn¡¯t prepare for any indirect challenges he might throw my way. If the Jian family¡¯s influence was as extensive as their wealth suggested, I needed to be ready for anything.
The meal continued, the flavors of the dishes somewhat muted by the heavier thoughts about the Gauntlet.
"Thanks, Feng Wu," I said as we got up to leave, feeling more prepared and a bit more cautious. "For the advice, and for... well, keeping me grounded."
He clapped me on the shoulder, a smile breaking through his usually stern demeanor. "Just remember, Kai, the smartest warrior is one who knows when to sheathe his sword. And remember, the vault visit tomorrow could be a game-changer for you. Focus on that."
As we left the bustling ambiance of the restaurant, the cool evening breeze felt refreshing after the intense discussions. We made our way through the lantern-lit streets towards the Jade Harmony Inn. The inn, with its flowing banners and the soft, melodious sounds of a qin playing somewhere in the background, felt like stepping back into a world of tranquility away from the competitive fervor of the day.
Upon entering my room, the first sight to greet me was Tianyi, fluttering around the space with an almost ethereal grace. Close by, Windy, lay coiled on a silk cushion, his eyes bright and attentive as he sensed my presence.
"It feels like a lifetime since I last saw you two!" I said, reaching out to let Tianyi land gently on my finger, her wings tickling my skin. I pulled out a small bottle of fruit wine from my bag, the one I¡¯d saved just for her, and poured a little into a shallow dish. Tianyi fluttered down, her proboscis delicately sipping the sweet liquid.
For Windy, I fetched some fresh meat from a pouch, laying it out on a small plate. He uncoiled slowly, slithering over with evident enthusiasm.
Seeing them both so vibrant, so alive, grounded me. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures, the life beyond alchemy and competitions.
Feng Wu, having followed me into the room, watched the scene with a soft smile. "They''ve missed you," he observed, settling into a chair by the window.
I nodded, sitting down across from him, the warmth from Tianyi''s gentle weight on my hand spreading through me. "I missed them too. It¡¯s strange how a couple of days felt like months."
As the spirit beasts settled, I turned the conversation back to the upcoming challenge. "So, about the vault," I started, leaning forward, "any thoughts on what I should be looking for? There¡¯s bound to be hundreds of rare ingredients and items, but I need something... impactful."
Feng Wu stroked his chin, pondering. "It''s a rare opportunity, indeed. They have many items that can boost your cultivation, if that''s what you so please."
I nodded thoughtfully, tracing patterns on the wooden table with my finger. The options were enticing. "I suppose you wouldn''t know what they''d have in their vaults, would you?"
"No, but the association would surely provide that. Instead of thinking a specific item, maybe look into what you want from the vault instead." Feng Wu added, his eyes gleaming with a strategist¡¯s intensity.
My eyes widened as Feng Wu''s words struck a chord. "You''re right," I murmured, the realization dawning slowly but with clarity. "Instead of looking for a powerful consumable that might give me a temporary edge, perhaps I should look for something sustainable¡ªsomething that grows."
Feng Wu nodded with a hint of approval in his expression. "That''s certainly a good idea, Kai. Finding a rare herb or a plant that you can cultivate would be a gift that keeps on giving. You could use it repeatedly, not just in this competition but beyond, enhancing your abilities and concoctions over time."
I leaned back in my chair, my mind racing with possibilities. "That makes sense. An herb or a plant... something that can adapt to my garden''s conditions. Something resilient yet potent." I felt a surge of excitement at the prospect of nurturing a rare plant, and watching it grow and harness its properties. Another addition to my garden back home, alongside the Moonlit Grace Lily!
Feng Wu chuckled softly. "I''ve seen your garden, Kai. You have a knack for making even the most stubborn plants thrive. Whatever you choose, I''m confident it will flourish under your care."
As we discussed the potential candidates, the excitement of what lay ahead filled the room. Each plant had its merits, but finding one that aligned with my goals as a cultivator and an alchemist was the real challenge.
Finally setting the scroll aside, I looked up at Feng Wu with a determined smile. "Thanks for helping me see things differently, Feng Wu. I was so focused on immediate gains, that I almost overlooked the long-term benefits."
He nodded, his face serious but kind. "It¡¯s easy to be swayed by the allure of instant power, especially in the heat of competition. But remember, true strength is built over time and with patience."
"I''ll keep that in mind," I said, feeling more grounded and focused than before. "Tomorrow, I''ll visit the vault with a clear goal. Not just to find something rare, but something that will grow with me."
88. The Alchemy Associations Vault
I made my way to the Alchemy Association''s towering building. It rose like a monolith among the bustling cityscape, dwarfing nearby structures with its imposing height and grand design. As I approached, the sun cast long shadows from its spire, a silent sentinel over the city''s alchemical pursuits. It was probably one of the tallest buildings here in Crescent Bay City.
Stepping inside, I was struck by the sheer number of people milling about. The lobby buzzed with activity; mainly merchants and nobles haggling over prices and materials. The air was thick with the scent of herbs and the undercurrent of magic¡ªa treasure trove for any alchemist, and a hive of shared knowledge and ambition. Judging by the luxurious decor, the Alchemy Association had money to spare; no wonder they could procure so many ingredients for the preliminaries and the first round.
From my time with Feng Wu and the teachings at the Verdant Lotus Sect, I knew well the Alchemy Association''s role. It was the foremost organization in spearheading growth and setting the standards for alchemy across the region. Here, one''s skills could be honed, tested, and certified, while standing within these walls. Elder Zhu mentioned that one of their elders had taken a position here, which helped bring the Verdant Lotus sect closer to the Alchemy Association, and that I''d likely see her during my time in the Gauntlet.
I approached the reception, where a clerk looked up at me with a practiced smile. I had to conceal the fact I was a country bumpkin!
"Good morning. I''m here to collect a reward from the vault," I announced, trying to sound as composed as possible despite my inner excitement, flashing my entry token.
"Ah, yes, from the tournament...Kai Liu, correct? Congratulations," the clerk responded, her voice carrying the crisp efficiency of someone well-used to handling queries. After verifying my identity, she stood up and ushered me over. "Please follow me."
She led me through a series of secured doors, each entrance seeming more fortified than the last. We descended a wide staircase that spiraled into the lower levels of the building, where the air grew cooler and the buzz of the lobby faded into a hushed silence. This area was distinctly less crowded, guarded heavily by men¡ªcultivators, I assumed¡ª who glanced at us with a yawn, waving us down to come in.
Finally, we arrived at a heavy, ornate door. Standing before it was an elderly man, his back straight, eyes sharp¡ªa vault-keeper. He held a talisman in one hand, which shimmered faintly with intricate glyphs.
"Here to access the vault?" he asked, his voice carrying an undercurrent of curiosity as he sized me up.
"Yes, sir. I''m Kai, one of the twenty qualifiers," I replied, extending the token I had been given as proof.
The vault-keeper nodded, a flicker of approval crossing his features. He stepped forward, placing the talisman against the vault door. The glyphs glowed brighter, and a series of clicks echoed as the lock mechanisms disengaged.
"Welcome to the vault," the vault-keeper said, his voice aged like fine wine. He pushed open the heavy door with a grunt, revealing rows upon rows of shelves laden with alchemical treasures.
"As you are one of the fortunate ones," he began as we stepped into the cool, dimly lit room, "you are entering only the first level of our vault. Here, we keep rare but non-essential goods¡ªthe kind that can significantly aid an alchemist, but are not pivotal to the major operations of the Association."
The vault was a meticulously organized labyrinth of ingredients, pills, and alchemical tools, each category neatly labeled and sectioned. My eyes widened at the sight; every shelf was an alchemist''s dream, stocked with vials and containers gleaming under the soft magical lighting.
"You may ask about anything you find," the vault-keeper continued, gesturing broadly with a slight wobble that made me briefly question his age. "I can provide information on them, young man."
Intrigued by his offer, I decided to dive straight into my primary interest. "Can you show me to the herbs and plants section? I¡¯m particularly interested in those."
"Ah, a herbalist then!" he exclaimed, chuckling softly as if pleased by my choice. He led me past several aisles to a section filled with a diverse array of botanicals. Some were vibrant, pulsing with an energy that tugged at my senses, while others were more subdued, their power hidden beneath mundane appearances.
As we walked, I glanced over the myriad of ingredients, many of which I had only heard of in my studies. Breezesong Fruits, Moonlit Grace Lilies...rare ingredients, including those that didn''t belong to this province, littered the area. My Plant Whisperer skill felt like needles along my skin, telling me that everything here held untold potential. But among them, I was drawn to a peculiar sight.
A see-through container carrying golden seeds that shimmered with a subtle, enticing luster. "What are these?" I asked, pointing to the seeds that resembled bamboo, yet were distinctly golden.
The vault-keeper followed my gaze and nodded sagely. "Ah, those are Golden Bamboo seeds. Not very creatively named, but quite rare. They come from a distant province and were once abundant here in the Tranquil Breeze Province. Sadly, they haven''t grown here for centuries. The innate qi in the environment has diminished, and with it, their ability to thrive."
His explanation piqued my interest. "What were they used for?" I inquired, my mind already racing with the possibilities of such a plant.
"Golden Bamboo was primarily used in body refinement pills," he explained, his voice lowering as if sharing a secret. "It helps cleanse one''s body of impurities, strengthens resistance to diseases, and has a myriad of other beneficial effects not dissimilar to ginseng. Quite a valuable ingredient for any cultivator looking to fortify their physique."
His description resonated deeply with me. In the competitive world of alchemy and cultivation, such benefits were invaluable. I leaned closer, examining the golden seeds with a new sense of reverence. "And there''s no record of how to cultivate it anymore?" I asked, a hint of disappointment threading my voice.
The vault-keeper¡¯s eyes twinkled with a mixture of nostalgia and mischief. "The methods were lost, indeed."
It was an itch I couldn''t ignore, an opportunity too tempting to pass up. While others might dismiss the Golden Bamboo as a relic of the past, lost to the annals of time, I sensed it¡ªthe potential, just waiting for its time to bloom. Was it the work of my skill? It felt like I just knew the Golden Bamboo was something special.
Stolen story; please report.
Both my pride as a herbalist and the desire to strengthen myself as a cultivator united. I want to revive the Golden Bamboo.
But I couldn''t do this blindly. "Can you tell me more about the Golden Bamboo? Anything at all? Was it native to the Tranquil Breeze Province?" I asked, eagerness creeping into my voice. If I understood what the plant once thrived on, perhaps I could replicate the conditions here.
"Oh, certainly not. It was brought here from a different region, although the specifics of which were unfortunately lost. The last known sect to have grown this Golden Bamboo died out several centuries ago, and our attempts at reviving the species have failed time and time again."
I sighed. It was worth a shot. Hearing that, I couldn''t help but feel discouraged. So many alchemists have attempted to...who could say that I was any better than them?
"Tell me," I said, focusing my gaze on the vault-keeper, "do you think there''s any chance¡even a small one¡that I could revive this plant?"
"Young man, the word ''impossible'' is a dangerous one to an alchemist''s vocabulary." He paused, a twinkle dancing in his eyes. "Reviving the Golden Bamboo¡difficult, yes. But with dedication¡and perhaps a hint of good fortune...who knows what you might accomplish?"
That was all I needed.
"You got seeds?!" Bai Hua exclaimed. "Of all the treasures available in the Alchemy Association''s vault, you got those?"
I looked at him, affronted. "How can you judge me? You took a Beauty Preservation pill! Pot calling the kettle black!"
"Well, it can''t be worse than Tao Ren''s..."
I turned to the blacksmith in question. He gave me a wide grin, before pulling out a large, black rock from his pocket.
"...Coal?"
"NO!" Tao Ren shouted, slamming his fist, clenching the coal in his hand and rattling the dining table. "It''s an Ember Stone! Feel it!"
The Ember Stone? I can''t recall the name. What was it for? I placed a finger on it, feeling warm to the touch. No, it was actually really hot! Like a boiling cup of water! How was Tao Ren just holding onto it like that?
Tao Ren chuckled at my confused expression. "It''s used as a material to light up flames, part of the nine-hundred Human Flames. This Ember Stone is rare and valuable because it can raise its heat to incredibly high temperatures, perfect for both alchemy and smithing. It''s like having a furnace in your pocket!"
Intrigued, I nodded, understanding the potential of such an item in his crafts. Of the nine-hundred and ninety-nine flames under heaven, there was no doubt that it was a valuable piece of treasure. "So, it''s similar to the Qinglian Jadeite then," I mused aloud, remembering the one used in the Verdant Lotus sect to produce the Jade Alchemic Flame. "Both are used to induce specific effects with their flames."
"Bah! You maniacs and your flames! All that matters is that of all the items in the Alchemy Association''s vault, you chose that! When there''s a myriad of ingredients to choose from!"
"You have eyes but fail to see Mt. Tai! The nine-hundred and ninety-nine flames under heaven are far more valuable than a mere pill that keeps you less wrinkled! Some of them are so valuable, that certain recipes can only be made using them! Like the Jade Alchemic Flame, for ex¡ª"
He waved us off. "Bah, I know what the flames are! I''m saying it doesn''t make sense to get them when there''s so much more useful things to get!"
Tao Ren only shook his head. "Don''t worry, Kai! Bai won''t understand; only true men of academia could understand the value of this," He said, tossing the rock up in the air.
"How rude! I''ll have you know I aced my imperial examination! With flying colors!"
The restaurant we''d chosen for the evening was a bustling hub in the heart of the city, known for its fiery cuisine. The interior was a vibrant mix of red and gold, with lanterns casting a warm, inviting glow over the intricately carved wooden panels. Every table was occupied, the air filled with lively conversations and the clattering of chopsticks against porcelain. Our own lively exchange seemed to blend seamlessly into the restaurant''s spirited atmosphere.
Some of the patrons seemed to recognize us from the contest, but didn''t say much further apart from that.
The dishes arrived in quick succession. The first was a platter of chicken, bite-sized pieces of chicken buried under a mountain of dried red chilies and peppercorns. The intense heat was a shock to the system, but in the most delightful way, making my lips tingle and our taste buds dance.
Next came the water-boiled fish, a dish deceptive in name but ferocious in flavor. The tender slices of fish were submerged in a fiery broth that was both numbing and aromatic, enriched with more peppercorns and vibrant green herbs that did little to temper the dish''s aggressive spiciness.
How could I return back home with meals like this in the city?! I''d have to bring everybody from the village here, at least once! Or rather, I should hire a chef from this restaurant to work at the Soaring Swallow Tea House!
"Is there a reason why Zhi Ruo didn''t come for dinner?"
"Busy, he said," I murmured in between mouthfuls of food. The librarian was nowhere to be seen, although from what I surmised from his coworkers at the Million Books Pavilion, he wanted to be alone. "it''s his loss! More food for the there of us."
Our dinner went by smoothly, talking amongst each other, sharing stories and bantering. If there was one thing I wasn''t expecting is that I''d have the opportunity to make some friends in the Gauntlet. I expected a more cutthroat opposition, willing to sabotage each other to get the upper hand in the competition.
"Tao Ren, I have to ask. Why''d you choose to pursue smithing?"
He looked up from his bowl of food and answered with a smile. "Because it''s cooler!"
I sighed. Perhaps expecting a more sophisticated answer from him was too much.
"I''m joking, I''m joking!" Tao Ren said, slapping me on the back. If he went any harder, I''d have to trigger Rooted Banyan Stance to avoid injury! He truly had a blessed physique.
His smile became softer, and he continued. "My old man always pestered me to take over the family business, inherit his techniques, yadda, yadda, yadda. That was until the Day of Awakening."
"The Day of Awakening?" Bai Hua interjected, pausing mid-chew, his curiosity piqued.
"Yeah, the day the Heavenly Interface manifested for everyone," Tao Ren explained, his tone turning a bit more reflective. "It changed everything. Gave me quests for smithing, aligning with what I truly wanted to pursue. It was like the universe telling me, ''Go for it, lad!'' So, I did."
I found myself nodding along, understanding the profound impact such an event could have on a person''s life. "And alchemy?" I asked, genuinely curious about how he balanced his passions.
Tao Ren sighed, a wistful look crossing his features. "Alchemy... well, that''s more for my dad''s sake. He''s a life-long alchemist, after all. I couldn''t just abandon that part of my heritage. So, I do both¡ªsmithing as my passion, alchemy to keep the family legacy going."
Bai Hua laughed lightly. "Sounds like a heavy burden to carry, my friend."
"Not really," Tao Ren countered with a grin. "It''s like being handed two swords. One I wield for my dreams, the other for my duties. Not everyone gets to play with one, let alone two."
His analogy made me chuckle. It reminded me of my own dual pursuits of martial arts and alchemy. "I can relate to that. I train in martial arts and study alchemy. Each discipline supports and enhances the other."
Bai Hua raised an eyebrow, a bit surprised. "Martial arts, too? You truly are a man of many talents, Kai."
"It''s all about balance," I replied, smiling at the notion. "Pursuing both paths keeps me grounded. Each discipline teaches me something valuable about the other."
The conversation lightened as we continued to enjoy our meal. The dishes kept coming, each spicier and more delicious than the last. The aroma of garlic, chili, and pepper filled the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and the occasional cough from an underestimated chili.
As the evening wore on, our conversation drifted to the upcoming round of the Gauntlet. Despite being competitors, there was a genuine camaraderie at the table. We were all eager to see how far we could go, each driven by our own motivations but united by a shared respect for the craft.
"Tomorrow''s going to be intense," I mused, picking up my cup. "But whatever happens, here''s to making it a memorable one!"
"Cheers to that!" Tao Ren and Bai Hua responded in unison, clinking their cups against mine.
The perfumer ended up footing the bill this time around. I was thankful, considering how much Tao Ren ate. I clasped my hands and bowed to the heir of Summer Sun Cosmetics. Tao Ren followed suit, letting out a small, satisfied burp before bowing.
"This young master gratefully acknowledges the boundless generosity of Elder Bai, whose magnanimous spirit has nourished both our bodies and our humble paths. May your cauldron always bubble and your elixirs never sour!"
"Senior is too kind!"
Bai Hua took it in stride, inclining his head in acknowledgment. "Think nothing of it. Enjoy this meal. Mark my words, friends, for tomorrow, you shall taste the bitter defeat against me in the Gauntlet!"
We all laughed, the mood light and teasing, though a spark of competitive fire lit up each of our eyes. The challenges of tomorrow loomed over us, yet here we were, reveling in the camaraderie that only such trials could forge.
"As generous as you are, Bai, don''t think we''ll go easy on you just because you''ve paid for our meal," I said, raising an eyebrow playfully.
"And don''t expect me to share my Ember Stone!" Tao Ren added, wagging a finger at Bai Hua.
Bai Hua grinned, waving us off with a dismissive hand. "Ah, but generosity is my weapon! I lull my rivals into complacency with kindness before I strike on the battlefield!"
As the night drew to a close, the cool night air felt like a balm, and the city lights flickered like distant stars¡ªwitnesses to our vows of facing whatever challenge laid in the Gauntlet.
89. Into the Second Round
I yawned, stretching my arms as I strode towards the Marble Jade Arena. After staying out late with Tianyi and Windy, walking them around to see the sights post-dinner with Bai Hua and Tao Ren, I felt the pleasant fatigue of a night well spent. Keeping Windy from slithering out of my sleeves had been a task¡ªhis curiosity for the world was as vast as the sky.
"Ugh, did Windy get even heavier? My arm is killing me..." I muttered to myself. Combined with the chilly weather, I ended up with quite a stiff neck and arm.
I considered learning acupuncture, recalling Elder Zhu''s lessons on its dual nature¡ªharming and healing. The seamless blend of martial arts and medicine never ceased to amaze me.
As I approached the arena''s grand entrance, a figure blocked my path. His hair was impeccably tied up, and his robes shimmered with enough gold to feed a family for years. Duan Jian stood there, exuding his usual air of superiority.
I attempted to sidestep him, but he mirrored my movements, effectively barring my way. My patience wearing thin, and I met his gaze squarely.
"What do you want?" I asked, my tone edged with irritation.
Duan Jian''s eyes flickered, a hint of amusement playing across his features. "Just observing the competition, Liu. It¡¯s nothing personal, you understand. We''re all here to prove ourselves, aren''t we?"
His words, though smooth, carried an underlying challenge.
"If you have any thoughts of sabotaging me this round, don''t think I''ll sit idly. You understand?"
Duan Jian''s smile thinned, his gaze sharpening as he leaned in slightly, the gold threads of his robe catching the sunlight, making him look almost aflame. "Sabotage? You think too little of me, Liu. But I must say, I won''t tolerate being ridiculed by a mere peasant."
I stiffened at his words. The arrogance, the disdain¡ªit was all too clear. But I didn''t have time for this. I took a step forward, my intentions set on moving past him to the arena. He tried to block me again, his hand shooting out to grab my arm.
In a swift motion, I grabbed his wrist, feeling the soft, unblemished skin that had likely never known a day of hard labor. His hands, smooth and pristine, contrasted my own, which bore the marks and calluses from countless hours of training and work. It was a reminder of our different paths, of the grit and resilience that had shaped me.
"You might want to rethink where you place your hands next time," I said, my voice low and steady. With a firm push, I forced his hand down and away, breaking his grip easily.
Duan Jian recoiled slightly, his expression a mix of surprise and anger. "You dare? Against the son of the Jian¡ª"
"I dare," I interrupted sharply. "This competition isn''t won by gold or birthright. If you step out of line, expect me to respond."
Turning away, I heard no more from him. I felt my heart beating wildly out of my chest. I couldn''t help but feel cold sweat run down my back.
I''m so glad I didn''t stutter. Practicing those lines, and playing up my ''young master'' persona truly helped in scaring him off.
This was just getting annoying at this point. Maybe Feng Wu was right; provoking him, even if he talked badly about Tao Ren wasn''t the smartest idea. Now I have to keep an eye on him while giving out my best effort during the Gauntlet.
Sighing deeply, I straightened my back and moved forward. What''s done is done. The only thing now is to improve from here on out. No more provoking unnecessary fights! Unless it''s necessary!
But how will I know when it''s necessary? Should I list out a set of prerequisites? Is it a case-by-case situation?
"Argh! All this thinking is getting me nowhere."
Breathe in. Breathe out. Let''s just focus on the Gauntlet.
My breathing exercise continued, helping me calm down as I walked. The winding hallways eventually led me to the reception, where a worker led me to the contestant''s lounge.
"Ma Hualong will be providing the contestants with further information. Please wait here, we have refreshments available until then."
They opened the lounge, revealing tables laden with delectable treats and drinks stretched as far as the eye could see, the aroma of roasted meats and spiced fruits teasing my senses. This wasn''t just a lounge ¨C this was a banquet hall straight out of an indulgent emperor''s dream.
My stomach rumbled in protest, reminding me of the simple fare I''ve been eating at the Verdant Lotus sect for the past few months. I was about to reach out for a pastry when I froze. I wasn''t alone.
The other contestants were already mingling, their conversations a mixture of nervous laughter and calculated sizing-up of one another. A few were focused on the food, sampling delicacies with practiced refinement, while others perched on velvet armchairs, gossiping in hushed tones. My fingers twitched at the thought of grabbing a plate and joining the feast, but a flicker of hesitation held me back.
No, Kai. Stay focused. Remember, this is a battleground, not a buffet. I couldn''t afford to look like some country bumpkin drooling over fancy pastries when everyone else was strategizing. I forced myself to straighten, pushing any thoughts of a sweet snack to the deepest recesses of my mind.
Suddenly, the air filled with boisterous shouts, and I spotted the unmistakable figure of Tao Ren bounding across the room. His hands were laden with food.
The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
"Kai!" he yelled, his voice echoing through the luxurious chamber. "You gotta try this!"
With remarkable speed, he reached my side, shoving a steaming dumpling under my nose.
"It''s so juicy! And the filling, so savory¡" Tao Ren''s eyes rolled back with exaggerated pleasure as he chomped into another dumpling. He was a force of nature, a whirlwind of unabashed enthusiasm, and my carefully constructed facade of cool composure began to crumble.
"Okay, okay, give me a second," I managed, my voice betraying the slightest hint of desperation as I snatched a bun from his overflowing tray.
Seeing him gorge himself without a care in the world was admirable. The disgusted looks from the contestants was as good as invisible to him.
Bai Hua and Zhi Ruo came over, carrying much more modest plates.
"You''re here! What was so important you had to ditch us, eh?" I asked the librarian, who scratched at his head slightly.
"Well, my family wanted to celebrate making the first round. I couldn''t leave my wife and son alone to eat with you all, so I apologize for that."
My jaw hung open slightly. "You had kids?! And a wife?!"
Because of his demeanor, I completely forgot that Zhi Ruo was a full-grown man. It shouldn''t have been surprising for him to have children, but for some reason, his lackadaisical mannerisms and occupation as a librarian made me subconsciously disregard that possibility.
As the four of us chatted, I couldn''t help but scan the rest of the room. The other contestants were watching us with varying degrees of curiosity and disdain.
Suddenly, the room fell silent. I turned to see Duan Jian striding in, his gaze flickering coldly over our group. His presence seemed to radiate tension, an unspoken challenge hanging in the air. My eyes met his, and for a brief moment, we held each other''s gaze before he finally looked away, a sneer crossing his face. Moving further into the lounge, he settled into a corner.
Then, another figure entered the room, drawing all eyes to her. Jingyu Lian moved with the grace of a wintry wind, her pale features a mask of perfect calm. As she brushed past me, a whiff of icy herbs and a hint of something indefinable filled my nostrils. It was a strangely captivating scent, both cool and alluring.
With her arrival, the full complement of contestants was gathered, almost immediately, Ma Hualong came in, carrying something in his hands.
"Welcome, competitors," he began, his voice carrying an undercurrent of authority. "This luxurious spread has been provided as a respite before the real challenge begins. Before the round begins, I''d like to explain what this round will contain.
He drew our attention to the item in his hand, clothed in a purple silk. Ma Hualong swept the cloth away with a flourish, revealing a chunk of gleaming, golden mineral. It sparkled deceptively in the soft light of the lounge.
"Competitors, today''s challenge centers around this," he declared, his voice tinged with a hint of amusement, "pyrite."
A ripple of surprise and murmurs swept through the crowd. Several contestants leaned forward, their eyes widening. Others scoffed, their expressions dripping with disdain.
"Pyrite?" Duan Jian questioned, his face twisting in confusion. "Isn''t that...useless?"
"You''re not entirely wrong," Ma Hualong admitted, a slight smile playing on his lips. "Pyrite, often referred to as ''fool''s gold'', lacks the beneficial properties of its more illustrious cousin. It deteriorates over time, is brittle and unusable for practical purposes. Historically, many were deceived by its golden luster, mistaking it for something far more valuable."
A hush fell over the room, the initial surprise shifting into a mix of skepticism and a hint of apprehensive excitement. The challenge was taking shape, and it was already clear this wouldn''t be a straightforward test of alchemical skill.
"Indeed, pyrite is largely useless in its natural form," He continued. "However, alchemy is, in essence, about transformation. Your task is to create something from this...unpromising material. It can be anything: a potion, an elixir, a powder, an ointment...even a new alchemical tool, should you deem it possible."
The room erupted in whispers. Some faces paled, while others flushed with a determined glint. I felt a sudden, familiar thrill shoot through me. Challenges like these were where I thrived.
"A panel of esteemed judges will evaluate your creations," Ma Hualong pressed on. "We will consider three main factors: quality, ingenuity, and how effectively you incorporate the pyrite."
I caught Bai Hua''s eye, his brow furrowed in concentration, already deep in thought. Jingyu Lian, with her usual icy composure, remained outwardly unmoved, although I noticed her fingers drumming lightly against her thigh.
Duan Jian, however, was smirking openly. "So," he drawled, his voice loud enough for all to hear, "it seems this round is tailor-made for the peasants among us. They likely have plenty of experience working with useless things, wouldn''t you agree?"
Some of the other contestants snickered, and a flush warmed my cheeks. I clenched my fists, but before I could react, Tao Ren was on his feet.
"Hey!" he bellowed, "What''s wrong with being from the countryside? At least WE know how to work hard and find somethin'' valuable where others see nothing!"
Ma Hualong raised his hand, restoring order. "The purpose of this round is to challenge preconceived notions and push boundaries," he stated firmly. "Remember, the most unexpected avenues often lead to the greatest discoveries."
"You have one hour to strategize before the competition officially begins..." his eyes swept across the eager yet nervous faces, "during which, you''ll be provided with a list of ingredients and their quantities that will be readily available for your use. Choose wisely, competitors, for your success will depend heavily on your decisions. "
As servants began distributing scrolls, the room became a whirlwind of activity. Some competitors huddled in intense discussion, pouring over the lists, while others retreated into secluded corners, their focus intense. The luxurious lounge had transformed into a battlefield of ideas, buzzing with nervous energy and determined focus.
A grin escaped my lips as Ma Hualong finished his explanation. Pyrite being useless? Hardly. Maybe to someone who only saw shiny objects as valuable, but pyrite held a potential many overlooked. I discarded ideas before they fully formed. A potion of strength? Too obvious. An elixir of¡what exactly? The key was in understanding pyrite''s true nature, not the fool''s gold image it projected.
The days I spent hunched over ancient texts in the Verdant Lotus library paid off at moments like this. Pyrite, that deceptive golden imposter, had a hidden secret ¨C it could be refined into sulfur. Sulfur, a pungent yellow element, might not look impressive, but in the right hands, it became a powerful alchemical tool. With sulfur, you could create explosives. Not exactly the peaceful elixirs most alchemists strived for, but undeniably useful. More importantly, sulfur was a key ingredient in a whole host of potent concoctions ¨C smoke bombs for distraction, sulfuric acid for etching and purification, and so on.
The possibilities unfurled before me. But this was a competition, not a time for brute force. A weaponized concoction might win points for ingenuity, but subtlety and control were valued even higher. Besides, causing explosions in an enclosed space wasn''t exactly a recipe for success (or continued existence).
My gaze darted towards the approaching servant, a scroll clutched in his hand. The list of available ingredients would be the final piece of the puzzle. Before I could reach out and grab for it, Ma Hualong spoke once again.
"...Before you review your ingredient options, there is one additional benefit for those who excelled in the previous round," He paused, his gaze raking over the nervous faces, "The top five performers may request one additional ingredient for this round, within reason, of course. Ask for it now or at any point during the brainstorm session."
The lounge erupted in a chorus of gasps and whispers. My mind raced. An extra ingredient could be the key to unleashing pyrite''s full potential.
"The top performers are," His voice boomed, "in no particular order, Tian Zhu, Fang Xiang, Bai Hua, Jingyu Lian and Kai Liu!"
Bai Hua, ever cool and collected, simply nodded in acknowledgment. Jingyu Lian, seemed more interested in overlooking the available ingredients on her scroll. The other two contestants only nodded, gazing over their scrolls and in deep thought.
Then, Ma Hualong''s words turned my focus inward, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "Remember competitors, this round is about embracing the unexpected. Do not let preconceptions or the opinions of others limit your imagination. You have one hour. Use it wisely."
An additional ingredient, eh? Looking over the scroll, I could see a distinct lack of qi plants here. But if we were allowed any ingredient, then it widened my options even further.
I had to narrow down my options, so I could choose my ingredient confidently. Out of all them, what was the best item I could think up using pyrite?
My mind raced as it read through the scroll, a kaleidoscope of potential ingredients swirling before my eyes. They were the standard alchemist''s toolkit. But I needed something special, something to elevate my creation beyond a mere potion or powder.
Elixir. That seemed the most appropriate form. Elixirs were potent, precise liquids, their magic coursing through the bloodstream, capable of both subtle and profound effects. I was also specialized in them, even over pills, because of my history as a herbalist. But what elixir? My gaze lingered on the ingredient list, then strayed towards the opulent decorations adorning the lounge. Just past Duan Jian, who looked ready to rip his hair out in frustration. My eyes snagged on a golden tapestry depicting a majestic dragon wreathed in flames.
And just like that, inspiration struck.
A memory surfaced, not of a scroll or textbook, but of a warm summer night back in Gentle Wind Village. Wang Jun, at the time, just a lanky boy beginning his apprenticeship, had been fumbling with the forge. The coals refused to catch, and his frustration was growing. I''d offered a suggestion, a trick my father used when kindling a fire.
"Grind some pyrite into the coal dust," I''d told him. "It''ll burn hotter."
Wang Jun had scoffed, but out of desperation, he had obeyed. The ensuing flare-up had been more than he''d bargained for, momentarily setting his eyebrows alight and sending him running for a bucket of water. But it had done the trick, the forge finally roaring to life. The memory faded, but the lesson lingered.
The plan was taking shape.
"I have my additional ingredient request."
90. Fools Gold, Wise Decisions
As the final moments of preparation ticked away, the air in the contestants'' lounge thickened with anticipation. I clutched my scroll tightly, the additional ingredient I had chosen resting heavily in my mind¡ªa bold choice, perhaps, but one that felt right.
Just as we were about to head towards the arena, Duan Jian sidled up to me, his smirk as polished as the gold threads on his robe. "Interesting choice. Seeking to balance the uselessness of pyrite with another useless substance? It seems your affinity for ''Fool''s Gold'' extends to your ingredients as well."
I almost rolled my eyes. So annoying and persistent. He was like a flea. Yes, a flea on a mangy dog ¨C perfect. Imagining the puffy aristocrat as a flea soothed me, cooling me down as I prepared to response.
I met his gaze, unflinching. "A plan is only as good as its execution, Duan Jian. You should focus more on that, especially since you seemed to be floundering during the brainstorming."
His face tightened, the smirk faltering just a bit as if my words had hit closer to home than he cared to admit. Before he could retort, an official''s sharp call cut through the tension. "Enough! All contestants, please proceed to the arena. We will be beginning shortly."
Duan Jian shot me a final glare before turning sharply on his heel and striding away. I watched him go, feeling a surge of determination. This was no time for distractions. Today, my focus was on the challenge at hand, not the petty squabbles of a rival.
The arena was buzzing as we entered, the atmosphere charged with a different kind of energy than the first round. The stands were filled not just with excited spectators but with many who carried themselves with an air of scholarly refinement. A few of whom I recognized as eliminated from the preliminaries and the first round. Their keen eyes and hushed, thoughtful discussions suggested a deep interest in the more nuanced aspects of alchemy. It seemed that the technical complexity of this round had drawn a crowd more appreciative of the intellectual rigor involved in our craft.
As they should! Unlike those uncouth folk who were here to ogle Bai Hua and Jingyu Lian. Hmph!
Assuming that this round would draw a more technically inclined audience made sense; after all, transforming something as deceptive and notoriously useless as pyrite into something of value was no small feat. It was the kind of challenge that separated true alchemists from mere potion brewers.
The arena was arranged meticulously for the competition, with twenty alchemical stations arrayed in an outward-facing circle around the crowd, and a rectangular judges'' table at the center. Several distinguished figures sat at the table, their presence commanding attention, while Ma Hualong stood before them, outlining the rules of the Gauntlet with authoritative ease.
"Ladies and gentlemen, as we commence this round, allow me to introduce our esteemed judges from the Alchemy Association," Ma Hualong announced, his voice resonating through the arena.
Among the judges, two figures were particularly notable.
"Please welcome Elder Mingmei!" Ma Hualong continued, prompting a round of applause. An older woman in verdant robes stood, her gaze piercing and analytical, her grey hair meticulously coiffed into a bun. Her reputation preceded her; she was a figure I recognized immediately¡ªnot just by name but by the formidable aura she exuded.
Elder Zhu had often spoken of her with fondness. "Mei won''t go easy on you just because you''re from Verdant Lotus," he''d warned me.
She was his mentor, a titan in the field of alchemy who had left the sect to devote herself entirely to the craft, propelling the Alchemy Association''s Pavilion of Arts to new heights without ever seeking the spotlight for herself.
Determined, I steeled myself to meet her stringent standards, knowing well that no personal connections would sway her judgment in this competition.
"And finally, please give a warm welcome to Elder Wei Lian!" Ma Hualong introduced the next judge.
A distinguished man with snow-white hair and piercing blue eyes stood up, acknowledging the crowd with a graceful nod. His robes, the color of moonlit silver, whispered of his status and influence. His features were quite striking. It''s almost like...
I glanced at Jingyu Lian, I noticed an unmistakable tension in her posture. Her eyes, usually so composed, flicked towards Elder Wei Lian with an unreadable expression.
This was crazy! Blatant favoritism! How can a judge be directly related to a contestant?
However, no one seemed to mind or comment, so I just kept my inner thoughts to myself.
Grumbling along the way, I found my designated station containing all the requested materials I planned on working with for this round. And along with it, my requested ingredient as a reward for being the top five of the first round.
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The Sunfire Blade Grass.
The core of my most recent invention, the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn. It was going to be the key that unlocks the pyrite''s full potential.
Whether it was intentional or by chance, Duan Jian''s station was as far as possible from mine. Perhaps to prevent any further sabotage attempts. Zhi Ruo and Tao Ren were adjacent to me, each absorbed in their preparations. The air was thick with concentration, the collective focus of my peers tangible as we all readied ourselves for the task ahead. Even though we were friends, none of us dared speak or talk during the hour we had to think of ideass. Time was too precious, to spend discussing with each other, especially considering how different our skillsets were as alchemists.
"Place your bets! The round will begin shortly!"
As the officials made their final checks and the crowd''s murmurs swelled into a low roar of anticipation, I closed my eyes for a moment, centering myself. The task was clear, the objective set. All that remained was to execute my plan with precision.
I had many people''s expectations riding on me! As well as the prizes, the fame and acclaim! I had to prove myself here, or I''d never be able to live it down.
The sound of Ma Hualong¡¯s voice rang out, officially beginning the round. "Let the second challenge commence! You have two hours!"
As I started on my preparation, I selected the dandelion root and milk thistle first for their renowned purification properties. Each root was firm and earthy, promising potent effects. I laid out a small amount of cinnabar next, crucial for stabilization and ensuring the concoction would be safe for consumption. This delicate balance was key¡ªtoo little could yield a volatile mixture, and too much would suppress the desired effects.
Around me, the arena was a hive of activity. Each contestant was immersed in their own world of alchemical crafting. Across the way, Tao Ren''s workstation was a spectacle of its own. He had the pill furnace fired up, and the flames beneath it danced with an almost sentient vigor, reacting to his precise manipulations.
Catching my eye for a moment, Zhi Ruo was the picture of concentration, meticulously preparing his ingredients. We exchanged a brief, encouraging nod.
Turning back to my task, I took the dried Reishi mushroom, known for its properties as an adaptogen. It was essential for tempering the yang element in the elixir, allowing whoever consumed it to adapt gradually to the increased body temperature it would provoke. With practiced movements, I ground the mushroom to a fine powder using mortar and pestle, its earthy aroma rising subtly into the air. Followed by ginseng, moonbeam petals, and nightshade flowers.
With all the ingredients ready, I began the actual concoction. Pouring distilled water into the pill furnace, I infused it with my qi, gradually increasing the heat until the water bubbled fiercely, ready to receive the essence of the ingredients.
Next came the most critical part of the process¡ªextracting the essence from the pyrite. Placing my hand on the metallic stone, I focused deeply, feeling for the core of the pyrite. Compared to when I first attempted essence extraction on metal, this was as easy as breathing. With a practiced push and pull of my internal energy, I coaxed the essence out, drawing it into my palm. Tiny beads of sweat pricked along my brow, not from the heat but the intensity of my focus.
All the late nights, the hours of training, studying, and preparing...It came to fruition right here.
Ma Hualong''s voice broke through the murmurs of the crowd, tinged with surprise. "What we are witnessing is essence extraction, a formidable technique that once belonged to Master Li Tao of the Verdant Lotus sect. Remarkably, it has been revived by contestant Kai Liu,"
Ha! That''s right! This crowd would undoubtedly appreciate me more than those of the first round. But this was just the beginning.
Steadily, I mixed the extracted essence into the boiling water, watching as the liquid took on a new character, a soft golden hue emerging. The process was delicate; each movement had to be precise, each timing exact. My focus was absolute, the noise and pressure of the surroundings fading into a blur. Only the elixir mattered now.
For the essence to combine properly into the water, I''d have to keep this up for some time. Just a steady flow of qi to keep the flame at the same temperature, along with precise stirring. Easy enough to do without thinking.
As I worked, I swept my eyes over the competition. It was hard to turn and see the others working at the opposite side of the arena with how the stations were positioned. Which meant I couldn''t see competitors like Bai Hua and Duan Jian, but I could see Jingyu Lian working diligently on hers by turning my head to the right.
A subtle hum cut through the chatter of the crowd. Her station glowed brightly, catching the crowd''s attention. Sigils and runes ran along her table inscripted onto a sheet of paper, glowing blue. I recognized them, but didn''t quite understand. They were from my most difficult class at the Verdant Lotus sect, a concept I couldn''t grasp with my current skills.
"Jingyu Lian is utilizing intermediate array formations with ease! It''s remarkable to see such a technique being applied effectively, especially given that array formations of this complexity are usually reserved for more advanced alchemists with higher cultivation levels," Ma Hualong added. "It''s no wonder she''s the favorite to win the Gauntlet!"
Her hands moved in a blur, meticulously tracing symbols on the table, her brow furrowed with concentration. Sweat beaded on her forehead, her expression intense. It was unlike anything I''d seen before. Was she holding back this whole time? Why did she choose now, of all times, to display her skills?
Glancing towards the judges'' table, I caught Elder Wei Lian watching Jingyu intently, a small smirk playing on his lips as he observed her work. His apparent pride in her performance was clear. Perhaps that was why Jingyu Lian seemed so harried.
Shaking off the distracting thoughts, I refocused on my own task. I wouldn''t be so discouraged! I have weapons of my own, to bring me to the top!
The crowd''s gasps had faded into a background hum, their attention now divided among the various alchemists'' techniques being displayed.
I poured my qi deeply into the furnace, maintaining the exact temperature needed to fuse the essence properly with the other elements of the elixir. The distilled water took on a richer hue, the gold deepening as the transformation progressed.
"Contestants! You have thirty minutes left!"
I moved, made aware of the looming deadline. I added the ingredients carefully, favoring precision over speed. From Tao Ren''s direction, I could hear flames rising and light from my peripheral, raising the temperature to an uncomfortable degree and shouting expletives. But I refused to take my eyes off my work. I was almost there!
Tweaking the recipe had some risks, but it was necessary to accommodate the two-hour time limit we had to make our concoctions. However, this meant my concoction wouldn''t be as strong as the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn, but I took that into consideration when thinking up what to make for the second round.
Duan Jian was right, in a way. Mixing together metal and wood-element ingredients was a fool''s errand. But pyrite had a special quality; it''s ability to ignite. This dual-element alignment of metal and fire gave it a unique edge. Because fire and wood elements are compatible, the combination not only reduced the risk of failure but also enhanced the yang properties of my elixir. This was crucial, especially considering the quick concoction time which might have otherwise limited its potency.
Contrary to Ma Hualong''s words in the contestant''s lounge, pyrite was far from useless. That was something many of the alchemists gathered here understood, and I was certain it would bring about Duan Jian''s downfall. To call any ingredient without worth showed just how shallow his skills and understanding were of the alchemical arts. Of that, I was sure.
But I learned something during this competition. I never would''ve considered pyrite as a complementary ingredient to my elixirs until now. In fact, I had only scratched the surface of what I was capable of, and the Gauntlet allowed me to explore it.
The concoction laid before me, boiling softly in the pill furnace, still in liquid form. A metallic tang cut through the earthy aroma of my elixir, like the smell of blood amidst a blooming field.
In the final minutes, I meticulously bottled the completed elixir. Everything was within expectation. I revised and devised my recipe many times in my head, although the time limitation certainly made it so I couldn''t fully realize the concoction''s potential.
"TIME''S UP! CONTESTANTS, PREPARE TO PRESENT YOUR PRODUCTS TO THE JUDGES!"
It was showtime.
91. Metals and Mettle
Ma Hualong stood at the center of the arena, his voice commanding the attention of every onlooker as he reached into a large, ornate basket. "The order of presentation will be determined at random," he announced, his hand swirling around before pulling out a small, engraved ball.
"First up, Tian Zhu!" he declared, holding the ball high for all to see.
Tian Zhu, one of the five who had received an additional ingredient like myself, stepped forward confidently. His demeanor was stern, almost unreadable, as he approached the judges'' table. I watched intently, curious to see what innovative use of pyrite he had concocted.
"Esteemed judges," Tian Zhu began, his voice steady and resonant, "I have synthesized a pyrite crystal that not only collects but also stores solar energy."
He held up a small, brilliantly gleaming crystal, and the crowd murmured in appreciation and surprise. "This crystal," he continued, "functions similarly to a light bulb, providing sustainable light. Furthermore, in situations requiring a tactical advantage, it can be used as a blinding light when shattered or thrown."
The judges leaned forward, their interest visibly piqued. Elder Mingmei, her eyes sharp, asked, "How did you manage to stabilize the crystal''s structure to store such energy without degradation?"
Tian Zhu nodded respectfully towards her. "Thank you for your question, Elder Mingmei. I used a combination of moonbeam petals and starlight essence to reinforce the crystal''s lattice, ensuring it maintains integrity while enhancing its energy absorption capabilities."
Elder Wei Lian, his expression contemplative, chimed in. "And the safety measures? Such a device, if misused, could pose significant risks."
"Indeed, Elder Wei," Tian Zhu replied. "I have incorporated a cinnabar lining within the crystal''s matrix. This not only stabilizes the energy but also ensures that if the crystal''s integrity is compromised, it will dissipate safely, with the cinnabar neutralizing any residual energy."
His answers seemed to satisfy the judges, who nodded appreciatively. I couldn¡¯t help but admire Tian Zhu¡¯s ingenuity. Integrating alchemy with practical applications always required a deep understanding of both the materials and the desired outcomes.
As Tian Zhu concluded his presentation and stepped back, the tension in my shoulders grew. His project set a high standard. I glanced at my own product, hoping it would be enough.
I wished they would let me present as soon as possible! The wait is unbearable!
A tense hush fell over the arena as a wide, ear-to-ear grin spread across Tao Ren''s face when Ma Hualong called his name. He bounced out of his station, practically radiating excitement, a stark contrast to the composed Tian Zhu. His enthusiasm was contagious, a ripple of amused whispers running through the crowd.
"My turn, my turn!" he announced, practically vibrating with energy as he approached the judges'' table with a clothed item.
My stomach did a nervous flip. What on earth was he up to? It was clear none of the judges had any idea how to prepare for Tao Ren''s presentation, as they exchanged puzzled looks. He always had a flair for the dramatic, but this seemed especially extravagant.
Without a word of explanation, Tao Ren unwrapped the clothed item with a flourish, revealing a gleaming blade.
The silence that followed was almost comical. The judges blinked in unison, their expressions a mix of utter bewilderment. Even the always serious Elder Mingmei couldn''t suppress her jaw opening in shock.
Finally, Elder Wei Lian broke the absurdity of the moment. "Young man," he said, a touch of incredulity in his voice, "I trust this isn''t meant to be a threat? This is, after all, an alchemy competition."
Tao Ren''s grin widened. "Not a threat, elder, a marvel!" He declared, thrusting the blade forward. "Crafted from that useless lump of pyrite, transformed into a weapon fit for a warrior ¨C all without ever stepping foot near a forge!"
This time, the silence was replaced by a wave of shocked murmurs rippling through the crowd. I stared, my jaw threatening to hit the floor. Sure, I''d expected something flashy from Tao Ren, but this was...unprecedented. How the hell did he forge a blade?
"Impossible!" Ma Hualong exclaimed, voicing the skepticism echoing through the room. "There are no forges in the arena."
"Who needs a forge when you''ve got a pill furnace?" Tao Ren countered, puffing out his chest with pride. "First, I extracted the trace amounts of iron from the pyrite. Then, by manipulating the sulfur content, I refined it into workable steel! Some shaping, a bit of tempering, and voila! Tao Ren''s Jade Foundry is always open for business!"
He ended with a dramatic bow, clearly enjoying the audience''s stunned reactions.
Despite the absurdity, a flicker of doubt crept into my mind. It was true, the volatile sulfur content in pyrite was well known. And with the right technique, perhaps some of that sulfur could be coaxed out, leaving behind a crude, low-quality form of iron. Difficult, but possible. But shaping, tempering...how? It defied everything I knew about forging metal...
My thoughts were interrupted by the judges'' hushed deliberation. Elder Mingmei''s sharp gaze swept across the blade, while Elder Wei Lian whispered something that made Ma Hualong''s brows furrow.
Finally, Elder Mingmei spoke, her voice as crisp as ever. "Young Tao Ren," she said, "while your resourcefulness is noteworthy, this is, undeniably, an unorthodox approach. Alchemy and smithing, while sharing some roots, are distinct disciplines."
Tao Ren tilted his head, a playful glint in his eye. "But elder," he argued, "isn''t the transformation of raw materials into something useful the very essence of both? All I did was apply alchemical principles to a different craft! My forge is simply an extension of my alchemy!"
I had to hand it to him. His logic was twisted, but not entirely without merit. The judges exchanged another round of glances, and I found myself holding my breath. What would the verdict be? Would they disqualify him, or acknowledge the ingenuity, however bizarre, of his creation?
"May I examine this... ''marvel'' more closely?" Elder Mingmei requested.
He beamed, practically shoving the blade into her hand. Elder Wei Lian adjusted his posture, leaning forward with an air of curiosity. All eyes were glued to the interaction.
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She didn''t inspect the blade visually for long. Instead, she closed her eyes, running her fingers across the metal. A subtle glow overtook the knife, perhaps she was inspecting its inner workings?
A low hum resonated from the blade as she examined its alchemical composition.
The air crackled with anticipation. Finally, she opened her eyes, a thoughtful frown etched on her face. "Hmm. Certainly an unorthodox approach, as I mentioned. Extracting usable iron from pyrite is a feat in itself. Your resourcefulness deserves recognition." A flicker of respect entered her voice.
Tao Ren puffed out his chest, a triumphant grin threatening to split his face in two.
Elder Mingmei''s eyes hardened as she continued her speech. "However," she continued, her voice turning firm, "refining iron from pyrite carries a crucial drawback. The high sulfur content, while potentially manageable during extraction, leaves the final product riddled with impurities." She raised the blade a fraction, her gaze meeting Tao Ren''s directly.
"A true testament to an alchemist''s skill lies not just in transformation," she stated, her voice gaining power with each word, "but in understanding the inherent properties of materials and mitigating their weaknesses."
With a swift, almost shocking display of speed and power for a woman her age, Elder Mingmei slammed the blade flat against the judges'' table. A sickening crack echoed through the arena, and the blade snapped cleanly in two.
A collective gasp rippled through the crowd. Tao Ren''s eyes widened in disbelief as he stared at the fractured metal in the judge''s hand. The weight of her words settled heavily. Yes, Tao Ren had managed to extract iron from pyrite, but the resulting metal was brittle, weak ¨C a low-grade knife unsuitable even for the most basic tasks, let alone a weapon fit for a warrior.
Sweat prickled on my forehead. Elder Mingmei''s critique was harsh, but undeniably fair. The ingenuity of the concept couldn''t mask the fundamental flaws in its execution. I glanced at Tao Ren, expecting a display of anger or dejection. Instead, he let out a hearty laugh, a touch sheepish but laced with genuine amusement.
"You make a very valid point," he boomed, completely unfazed. "Looks like my forge still has a lot to learn about managing those pesky impurities! But hey, that''s what comes with pushing the boundaries, right? Come visit the Jade Foundry sometime, we''ll get you a blade worthy of a true elder!" He winked, somehow managing to spin the situation into a shameless promotion of his business.
The crowd, initially stunned, erupted in a mixture of cheers and groans. Elder Mingmei remained impassive, simply placing the broken blade on the table with a faint sigh. Ma Hualong cleared his throat, attempting to restore order.
"Next up," he announced. "Zhi Ruo!"
The librarian, ever the picture of quiet diligence, stepped forward. Unlike the first round, he seemed more composed and confident. I could see his eyes sweep over to a particular spot in the crowd. I followed his gaze, and spotted in the crowd, a brown-haired woman carrying a child, wearing a soft smile and pointing at Zhi Ruo.
He bowed respectfully to the judges before reaching into a small pouch at his waist. He drew out a length of white silk, carefully unfurling it to reveal two small, glistening pills nestled within.
"Esteemed judges," he began, his voice even and clear, "I present to you a Purification Pill. This elixir, crafted using a combination of pyrite, knotweed root, jade blossom, and water deer antlers, is designed to cleanse the body of impurities and toxins."
He gestured towards the pills. "I have created a pair, one for presentation and the other for immediate testing."
A younger judge, his face marked with scholarly curiosity, reached forward and examined the pills with keen eyes. He leaned in, taking a long sniff. His brow furrowed for a moment before a smile broke out across his face.
"Remarkable! The aroma is clean and balanced, with no hint of impurities. If I may?" He looked towards Elder Mingmei and Elder Wei Lian, who nodded their assent.
He carefully picked up one pill and popped it into his mouth. A hush fell over the arena as everyone waited, anticipation thick in the air. The judge chewed thoughtfully for a moment, his eyes widening in surprise.
"This is impressive!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine awe. "The potency...it rivals that of the standard purification pill recipe! You said you made it using only those ingredients?!"
The librarian nodded, his expression serene. "Yes, each ingredient has been carefully chosen not only for its individual properties but for the synergistic effects they can create together, particularly with the unique qualities of pyrite."
The judge, intrigued, prodded further. "Could you elaborate on the reaction between the components? How do they interact to amplify the purification properties of the pyrite?"
Zhi Ruo took a deep breath, launching into a detailed explanation that covered the interactions at play. "The knotweed root provides a robust base, rich in resveratrol, which enhances blood circulation and speeds up the elimination of toxins," he began. "Jade blossom adds a mild sedative effect that aids in the absorption of minerals and enhances the calming nature of the pill."
He paused, ensuring the judges were still with him. "Finally, water deer antlers, enhance the body''s regenerative processes. The pyrite doesn''t just act as a catalyst for purification; it enhances the regenerative properties of the antlers, channeling its yang energy into a more potent, balanced state."
Elder Wei Lian, his interest clearly piqued, leaned forward. "And how does this interaction manifest in the efficacy of the pill?" he inquired, his tone both skeptical and intrigued.
"The synergy between the antlers and pyrite serves to amplify the medicinal properties while ensuring stability and balance within the body¡¯s qi circulatory system," Zhi Ruo responded. "This balance ensures that the pill¡¯s effects are sustained and harmonious, avoiding the aggressive purging often seen with more potent detoxification agents."
Zhi Ruo droned on for a few more minutes, going in-depth about the precision and timing required to add the ingredients in at the most optimal time. Even though I''d consider myself well-versed in alchemy, the terms he was throwing around started to make my eyes glaze over. From the corner of my eye, I could see Tao Ren''s eyes closed, and a line of drool slowly hanging down his face.
"...Your understanding of the materials is commendable, young man. The complexity of this pill shows a profound grasp of alchemical principles. The intricacy of its creation might be beyond the reach of an average alchemist. This requires not only in-depth knowledge but also precise timing and handling of the ingredients. It''s quite sophisticated."
The younger judge continued from where Elder Wei Lian left off. "Indeed, the synergy you''ve achieved is impressive, Zhi Ruo. However, the final product, while effective, lacks refinement in texture and consistency. This indicates a gap in your practical skills, which are as crucial as theoretical knowledge in alchemy."
His thoughts were punctuated by a finger breaking the pill down into a powder, showing the uneven clumps in the pill. It was a minor mistake, but one that shows how the purification pill he created could''ve been even better.
Zhi Ruo bowed slightly, accepting the feedback with grace. "I appreciate your insights, Elders. I strive to bridge that gap and refine my techniques further."
As Zhi Ruo stepped back, a quiet murmur ran through the crowd, discussing the potential and pitfalls of his creation. I watched him return to his station, his stride confident yet contemplative. It was clear now why Zhi Ruo had placed first in the preliminaries. His vast knowledge and ability to integrate complex concepts were impressive, though his practical skills needed honing.
The rest of the contestants presented one by one, yet none captured the imagination or provoked thought quite like Zhi Ruo''s or Tao Ren''s presentations. Most were variations on familiar themes¡ªenhanced strength potions, accelerated healing balms, and the like. Though competently made, they lacked the spark of innovation or the bold application of theory that could stir the judges from their growing ennui.
As each contestant stepped back, their expressions ranging from mildly pleased to subtly disappointed, it was evident the judges shared their feelings. Polite applause followed each presentation, but the murmurs of the crowd were tepid, the energy in the arena dipping with every passing moment.
Then, Duan Jian''s name was called. The man himself stepped forward with a swagger, his robe gleaming almost as brightly as his confident smile. He held a single, small pill between his fingers, presenting it with a flourish that seemed to promise wonders.
"Ladies and gentlemen, what I present to you today is not just a pill, but a lifeline," Duan Jian began, his voice smooth and assured. "This is a Qi Replenishment Pill, crafted to not only restore a cultivator''s energy reserves swiftly but to enhance their qi flow, making each use an opportunity to refine and strengthen one''s core."
Interest piqued, the audience leaned closer, the previous presentations forgotten in the wake of Duan Jian''s bold claims. Even the judges seemed to perk up, their expressions sharpening as they considered the potential impact of such a creation.
Elder Mingmei, always direct, wasted no time. "An impressive claim. However, the core of this challenge was to incorporate pyrite into your creation effectively. How have you achieved this, given pyrite''s known properties?"
The aristocrat nodded, ready for the question. "Thank you, Elder Mingmei. I used the pyrite not directly in the pill''s formation but as a catalyst during the synthesis process. The pyrite was ground into a fine powder and used in the initial concoction phase to enhance the absorption of the high-class ingredients, magnifying their effects."
Elder Wei Lian chimed in, his tone more skeptical. "While innovative, using pyrite merely as a catalytic agent does not truly integrate it into the product. You''ve used it to bolster the process but not as a fundamental component. This approach seems to sidestep the challenge rather than meeting it head-on."
Duan Jian''s composure faltered slightly. "With respect, Elder Wei, the properties of pyrite are limited. It lacks the inherent benefits of gold or other rare metals. I have simply used it as a catalyst to enhance the pill''s overall effect."
"The pyrite seems to be an afterthought, a mere addition rather than a transformative element. Did you consider the potential side effects of combining pyrite with synergistic ingredients like Zhi Ruo''s? Or the possibility of refining it into something else, like Tao Ren, something that truly showcases the versatility of this mineral?"
As Duan Jian stumbled through his response, I couldn''t help but feel a pang of sympathy for him. He was clearly a skilled alchemist, but his arrogance and reliance on high-quality ingredients had blinded him to the true potential of the challenge.
Ma Hualong, his expression carefully neutral, nodded towards the judges. "Thank you, Duan Jian. We will take your creation into consideration."
Duan Jian bowed stiffly and returned to his station, his face flushed with a mixture of frustration and embarrassment.
Finally, Ma Hualong''s voice broke through my contemplations, his hand reaching into the basket once more. My heart raced, my palms sweaty as he stirred the remaining balls. "And now," he announced, pulling out another engraved ball, "let''s see who''s next..."
The anticipation was a physical weight in my chest. I was ready, my mind racing through every detail of my presentation. My eyes followed Ma Hualong''s movements closely, every second stretching out interminably as he read the name inscribed on the small sphere.
"Next up, we have Kai Liu!"
92. The Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn
Clearing my throat slightly, I carefully placed the elixir on the display table before the judges. Their expressions remained inscrutable as I adjusted the sleeves of my robe, a subtle attempt to calm the fluttering in my chest.
"Esteemed judges," I started, my voice steadier than I felt, making a conscious effort to speak clearly and project confidence despite the sea of faces around us. "The elixir I present today harnesses the combined powers of Sunfire Blade Grass and essence of pyrite, intricately balanced with other select ingredients to enhance both body and spirit."
I paused, ensuring I had their full attention, then continued. "It begins with dandelion root and milk thistle, both well-regarded for their purification properties. These form the foundation, cleansing the body from within."
Elder Wei Lian picked up the elixir, allowing the light to catch its subtle glow. "Next, a carefully measured dose of cinnabar ensures the elixir''s stability and safety¡ªa crucial element to maintain its integrity."
Drawing a slow breath, I detailed the next components. "The core of the elixir''s transformative power lies in the Reishi mushroom, an exceptional adaptogen. It moderates the yang energy released by the Sunfire Blade Grass, facilitating a controlled increase in the body¡¯s resilience and vitality."
"To this, I added ginseng to enhance endurance, moonbeam petals to balance the mind, and nightshade flowers to deepen the cleansing process," I explained.
"This blend," I concluded, "not only revitalizes physical abilities temporarily but also purifies, utilizing the pyrite''s essence to bind and amplify each ingredient''s effect, achieving a harmony that revitalizes yet stabilizes, ensuring no harm comes to the user."
Despite the nervous energy coursing through me, my voice held a note of pride as I finished, hoping my meticulous preparation and understanding of each component shone through. It was a shame Zhi Ruo presented first, considering how our concoctions both had purification properties. I just hoped I could bridge the gap in the quality of my work, as well as the effects of my essence extraction!
The judges exchanged a look of mild surprise, as though they hadn''t expected such a thoughtful and detailed explanation from me. I watched their faces, searching for any sign of approval or criticism.
Elder Wei Lian leaned forward, his piercing blue eyes fixed on me. "Kai Liu, was it?" His voice was smooth, his tone measured. "A most intriguing concoction. But tell me, where did you acquire the knowledge to perform essence extraction? Such a skill is rare, even among seasoned alchemists."
A warmth spread through me at the question. He had noticed, had recognized the skill that had taken me countless hours to master. "I learned it after the Heavenly Interface evolved my herbalism skill," I answered honestly.
A flicker of interest crossed Wei Lian''s face, and he began to speak again, "That''s fascinating. Now, are you¡ª"
But before he could finish his question, Elder Mingmei interrupted, her voice firm and authoritative. "Wei Lian, let us focus on the young man''s creation, shall we? We are here to judge the product at hand, not his personal history."
There was a subtle undercurrent in her tone, a protective edge that I hadn''t noticed before. Wei Lian, though slightly taken aback, offered a polite smile. "Of course, Elder Mingmei. Forgive my curiosity." He turned back to me, his gaze still intense.
"May I?" the younger judge interjected, gesturing towards the elixir. His eagerness was palpable, a stark contrast to the usual reserved demeanor of the panel. With my nod, he lifted the small bottle, uncorking it to allow the delicate, complex aroma to waft through the air. That''s right! Be wowed! Be amazed!
Carefully, he poured a small measure into a glass, swirling it gently before bringing it to his lips. The arena fell silent, every spectator and contestant watching as he took a cautious sip, then another, more confident one.
After swallowing, the judge paused, his expression contemplative. Slowly, his eyes widened, not with alarm, but with a clear, unmistakable spark of excitement. ¡°Remarkable,¡± he murmured, more to himself than to the audience, then louder for everyone to hear, ¡°I can feel a gentle heat spreading through my body, not burning, but invigorating. My fatigue seems to be washing away with each breath I take.¡±
Turning to face the audience, and particularly the judges, his enthusiasm was evident. ¡°As someone in the peak of the Qi Initiation stage, I can attest to the potency of this concoction. It¡¯s a refined burst of energy, one that could be invaluable for cultivators, especially during prolonged engagements or recovery periods.¡±
Encouraged by his reaction, I added, ¡°The Reishi mushroom plays a crucial role in that. It helps the elixir acclimate to different constitutions, making it safe for a wide range of users, not just cultivators. This adaptability ensures that the elixir provides benefits without overwhelming the user, no matter their level of resilience.¡±
¡°I was inspired by the success of my earlier potion, the Invigorating Dawn Tonic,¡± I continued, aiming to connect this new creation with something familiar to the alchemical community. Some among the crowd murmured, recognizing the name. ¡°This elixir, which I¡¯ve named the Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn, builds on that foundation but introduces a deeper, more nuanced approach to bodily enhancement and purification.¡±
Elder Mingmei nodded thoughtfully, her stern features softening just a touch. ¡°It¡¯s clear you¡¯ve put considerable thought and skill into this, Kai Liu. The ability to harness such potent effects while maintaining balance is no small feat.¡±
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Elder Wei Lian, still visibly impressed, leaned forward slightly. ¡°The use of pyrite essence¡ªnot just as a component but as a cornerstone of this elixir¡¯s efficacy¡ªdemonstrates a sophisticated grasp of alchemical principles. Often overlooked for its less glamorous qualities, you¡¯ve shown how essential understanding and innovation can turn any material into something of great value.¡±
Their words, measured and sincere, filled me with a deep sense of pride and relief. The tension I had carried began to ebb away, replaced by a growing confidence in the worth of my work and the long hours spent perfecting my craft.
Elder Mingmei''s voice, sharp as a honed blade, cut through the air. "However," she began, her gaze unwavering, "while the theoretical underpinnings of your elixir are sound, and your execution is commendable for one so young..." She paused, and I tensed, waiting for the inevitable criticism.
"...there are certain...oversights," she continued, her eyes not leaving my face. "The addition of nightshade, while intended to counter the yang energy of the pyrite, introduces an element of instability. Combined with the potent effects of the Sunfire Blade Grass, the elixir''s overall consistency and longevity are compromised."
A knot of disappointment tightened in my stomach. I''d suspected as much, but hearing it confirmed by one of the most respected alchemists in the region was a blow. My gaze flickered towards the shimmering potion on the table. It had been a gamble, although I focused more on how to make the potion effective rather than it''s long-term storage capabilities.
"Furthermore," Elder Mingmei continued, "a pill form would have been a more stable and easily distributable medium for this concoction. The addition of a binding agent, such as powdered moonpetal, would have also mitigated the potential for qi fluctuations."
Her words were a precise dissection of my work, laying bare the flaws I''d desperately hoped to conceal or wouldn''t be noticed so easily. But I wouldn''t let her words discourage me. I straightened my spine, my voice steady as I met her gaze.
"Thank you for your valuable feedback, Elder Mingmei," I said, bowing my head respectfully. "I acknowledge the shortcomings of my elixir. This competition has taught me much, and I will strive to learn from my mistakes and refine my craft further."
A flicker of surprise passed over her face, replaced by a grudging nod of approval. "That is the mark of a true alchemist," she said, her voice softening slightly. "Remember, even the greatest masters began as novices. It is through acknowledging our flaws that we pave the path towards true mastery."
The judges seemed to echo Elder Mingmei''s sentiments, a positive reception despite its shortcomings. The crowd cheered for me, and I felt heat rushing to the back of my neck, and the sound of my own heartbeat.
I bowed again, accepting her critique with gratitude. Even in criticism, there was valuable knowledge to be gleaned. This wasn''t the end, merely a stepping stone on the path towards becoming a true alchemist. I would learn from this, adapt, and emerge stronger than before. The Gauntlet was far from over.
My eyes sought out Duan Jian''s, and I couldn''t help but smirk as I caught a glimpse of his clenched fists, his head lowered in frustration. He''d expected me to crumble, to fail, but it turned out to be his fate rather than mine.
I held my head high as I returned to my station, the heat of embarrassment fading into a cold resolve. This was far from over. The Gauntlet was a marathon, not a sprint. Each challenge, each critique, was a chance to learn, to adapt, to evolve.
My entry was impressive enough to make it to the next round, that I was sure, but I needed to know how it stacked up against Jingyu Lian. To see just how high the wall I need to climb was.
As the judges discussed amongst themselves, Ma Hualong began to reach for another sphere to select a contestant. Only two remained.
"Bai Hua!"
I watched with interest as Bai Hua stepped forward, a confident smile on his face and a beautifully crafted incense holder in his hands.
"Esteemed judges," Bai Hua began, his voice smooth and captivating, "today, I present to you an incense that harnesses the purification properties of refined sulfur extracted from pyrite. This incense, when burned, not only cleanses the air of impurities but also revitalizes the spirit and enhances mental clarity."
"WHAT?!" A judge said, his eyes alight with fear. Tao Ren seemed to snap out of his stupor and draped his apron across his mouth.
Wait, sulfur? He was going to light sulfur on fire?
He placed the incense holder on the display table with a flourish, and as he prepared to light it, a ripple of realization swept through the audience and the judges. Several judges instinctively covered their mouths, and I felt a jolt of panic. Cleanse the air of impurities?! He was going to fill the area with them and suffocate everyone in it!
With a dramatic flourish, Bai Hua lit the incense. A delicate plume of smoke began to rise, swirling in intricate patterns. With a subtle gesture, Bai Hua seemed to control the rate at which the incense burned, guiding the smoke to roam across the stadium.
The aromatic cloud drifted gently toward the audience, reaching as far as my station. As I inhaled the scent, a profound sense of calm and tranquility washed over me, the stress of the competition momentarily fading away. But the tension remained thick in the air as the judges looked ready to bolt.
Bai Hua raised his hands in a placating gesture, a charming smile gracing his lips. "Please, do not be alarmed, esteemed judges. Allow me to explain. While sulfur can indeed be hazardous, I have tempered its properties using celestial ice crystals. These crystals not only neutralize any potential combustibility but also work in a harmonious dance with the sulfur, enhancing its purifying effects."
The judge who had feared for his life drooped his shoulders and glared at Bai Hua, still keeping his nose closed. "You should''ve started with that earlier!"
I blinked, realization dawning. So that''s what he chose as his additional ingredient¡ªthe celestial ice crystals. Ingenious and incredibly risky, but clearly, it paid off.
The younger judge, still holding the incense holder, took a cautious sniff. His eyes widened as he felt the calming effects, and he nodded appreciatively. "The aroma is balanced and pleasant, and I can already feel a clarity in my thoughts," he said, his voice carrying a hint of respect. "This incense could be invaluable in meditation and focus, especially for cultivators."
Bai Hua continued with a flourish, "The lavender soothes the mind, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. White sage purifies the environment, removing negative energies and fostering a sense of calm. Lotus petals, symbolizing purity and enlightenment, enhance the spiritual aspect of the incense."
Elder Wei Lian''s interest deepened. "Ingenious," he remarked. "But I am curious about potential side effects. Sulfur, if not properly controlled, can be quite harsh on the senses."
Bai Hua nodded, his eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief. "An astute observation, Elder Wei. However, the celestial ice crystals temper the sulfur''s harshness while ensuring its potency. In fact..."
With a graceful gesture, he adjusted the incense holder, hastening the burn. The previously light, tangy scent transformed into something crisper, cooler, revitalizing. A sudden surge of energy coursed through me, as if a veil had been lifted from my mind.
Elder Mingmei''s eyebrows rose, a flicker of surprise crossing her stoic features. "Two distinct stages?" she murmured, her voice laced with intrigue. "This is a complex and impressive creation, Bai Hua."
Elder Wei Lian nodded in agreement. "Truly remarkable. But tell me," his voice sharpened slightly, "why choose such a difficult path? One wrong move and the sulfur could have overwhelmed the other ingredients."
His smile faded, replaced by a look of sincere passion. "As an alchemist, I am drawn to the unexplored, the unconventional. I believe true innovation lies in pushing boundaries, and in finding harmony where others see only chaos. I could have crafted a simple elixir or pill, but this incense..." His eyes shone with pride, "this is a testament to my unique approach, my passion for aromatherapy, and my belief in the transformative power of scent. As the heir of Summer Sun Cosmetics, I cannot make such boring products!"
The judges exchanged glances, a silent conversation passing between them. It was clear that Bai Hua''s passion and ambition had struck a chord.
I was stunned by Bai Hua''s performance. His poise, his confidence, and his ability to create such a complex and effective product were awe-inspiring. His pride and ambition shone through every word and gesture, making me realize that perhaps I shouldn''t be looking at only Jingyu Lian as the wall to climb in this Gauntlet. Bai Hua was a formidable contender in his own right.
As she was called up, I tensed, my focus shifting to her. This was the moment I had been waiting for, the true test of my abilities. The white-haired alchemist stepped forward with an air of calm confidence, her every move precise and deliberate.
I couldn''t help but feel a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. What would she present? How would it compare to Bai Hua''s incense and my own elixir? My mind raced with possibilities as she began her presentation.
93. Exploding Pill
She was poised, her blue eyes taking a distinct, determined look with her brows furrowed. She seemed...more focused.
"Esteemed judges," she began, her voice clear and just loud enough to hear from where I was standing. "Today, I present to you an exploding pill. This pill, when infused with qi, can be set to explode and cause significant damage, even to peak Qi Initiation stage cultivators."
She held up a small, seemingly unremarkable pill, letting the light catch its surface. I squinted, trying to discern any details that might hint at its true nature.
"The process begins with refining pyrite into sulfur," she continued. "I then used this sulfur in an array to ensure the pill is stable and safe to handle. The core of the pill''s explosive power comes from a thunderstone, which generates a powerful electrical explosion."
My breath caught. An explosive pill? Using a thunderstone?
I searched my memory for any mention of the ingredient. Found on mountain peaks where thunderstorms frequent...they contain and absorb the energy from lightning strikes, usually detonating once broken.
Creating a pill like that was suicidal! I considered a similar idea but ultimately dismissed due to the inherent dangers. The risk of creating such a volatile concoction was immense. Every alchemical concoction carried the risk of failure, but using that?! One wrong move and the consequences could be catastrophic. Perhaps she was sweating not because of how difficult it was to create the array, but the consequences of her failure.
Jingyu Lian held the pill delicately between her fingers, her expression calm and composed. "To demonstrate its effectiveness," she said simply, "I will infuse it with my qi and show its controlled detonation."
The judges leaned forward, their interest piqued. Even Elder Mingmei, who was usually so composed, seemed impressed. Elder Wei Lian, however, maintained a neutral expression, his gaze steady and unreadable.
She placed the pill on a small platform and began to infuse it with her qi. I watched, holding my breath. A faint glow emanated from the pill, and she stepped back, counting down from five. When she reached one, the pill detonated in a burst of crackling light and energy, the explosion contained within the platform but powerful enough to send a gust of wind throughout the arena. Dust flew, and the air was filled with the smell of ozone, pungent and distinct. Where the ground was, all I could see was a slight indentation, scorched earth, and scattered rocks.
Significant damage? Feng Wu was at the fourth stage of the Qi Initiation stage, and I''m pretty sure he''d be crippled if he took that head on!
Gasps echoed around me, and I couldn''t help but feel a mix of awe and admiration. The sheer skill and control required to create and handle such a dangerous concoction at our level...
"Judges," Jingyu Lian continued, "I used an array to allow the user to control the detonation time. By infusing their qi, they can set the pill to explode between one to five seconds, allowing for greater strategic use in combat."
Elder Mingmei nodded, her eyes reflecting a rare hint of admiration. "Your workmanship is impressive. Utilizing arrays in this manner is usually reserved for more advanced alchemists. You have demonstrated a high level of skill and understanding."
Wei Lian''s expression remained unreadable, and I expected him to sing her praises, given their familial connection. Instead, his voice cut through the arena with an edge of criticism. "Jingyu Lian, while it is impressive to use such complex techniques at your age, the quality of your array is shoddy. The consequences of making it poorly cannot be ignored."
I blinked, baffled by his treatment of her. He continued to drone on, picking apart the pill with what seemed to be valid points but overall felt nitpicky and almost spiteful. "The array''s stability is questionable. The containment of the sulfur and thunderstone components is rudimentary. Have you considered the risks of handling such volatile ingredients with such an elementary array?"
The other judges exchanged uncomfortable glances but didn''t contest his points. Elder Mingmei eventually spoke up, her voice firm. "Elder Wei Lian, your critique is too harsh and overly meticulous. Jingyu Lian''s work here is commendable, especially for someone of her experience."
Jingyu Lian''s face was a mask of conflict, her emotions tightly controlled. But her fist was balled up into a fist, trembling slightly.
Elder Wei Lian''s expression hardened further. "The most critical flaw, however, is that if a higher-tier cultivator were to send out their qi outwardly, the array could destabilize and explode preemptively." He demonstrated by tossing another pill into the air and releasing a pulse of qi. A subtle blue hue radiated from the man.
Wasn''t that qi projection? Something limited to those in the Essence Awakening stage!
As his energy passed through the pill, it began to glow, filling the air with the scent of ozone once again. It exploded midair, sending a shockwave through the arena. I could see Jingyu Lian''s struggle to keep her composure. Her eyes were tightly shut, and her shoulders sagged in front of the judges.
Elder Wei Lian''s voice was stern and cold. "Presenting something so dangerous is irresponsible. You must think about the potential dangers that come with creating such a concoction."
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Jingyu Lian bowed her head slightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you, judges. I will take this into consideration."
She walked back to her station, her posture rigid, and the atmosphere in the arena grew tense. Whispers spread among the crowd, the air thick with discomfort and unease. I couldn''t believe what I had just witnessed. Elder Wei Lian''s relentless critique of his own relative''s work seemed almost cruel. Jingyu Lian''s pill was relatively brilliant compared to the other competitors, yet he had torn it apart with merciless precision.
Ma Hualong coughed into his palm, announcing the end of the round.
"Competitors, please return to the lounge and await the results. The judges will discuss among themselves, ranking based on personal preferences, and tally the points together at the end."
We all filed back into the lounge, where the tables were once again laden with food and drink. I scanned the room for my friends, catching sight of Bai Hua and Tao Ren. Before I could join them, I noticed Duan Jian approaching Jingyu Lian. Her expression was subdued, and shadows cast around her face.
"That was really unjust, the way Elder Wei Lian criticized you," Duan Jian said, attempting to sound sympathetic. "As the young master of the Jian clan, there''s no-"
Jingyu Lian shot him a frosty glare. "I''m not in the mood to talk. Be quiet," she warned, her voice cold and firm. "Or else I''ll make you."
Duan Jian stepped back, clearly taken aback by her curt response, and slunk away. I turned my attention back to my friends, who were gathering near one of the tables.
Bai Hua grinned as I approached. "Quite the show out there, huh?"
Tao Ren joined us, his usual exuberance on full display. "Did you see that knife? Pure genius. A shame the judges didn''t see it that way. But I think they''ll use this time to realize its brilliance!"
Bai Hua and I exchanged amused glances. "Genius, sure," Bai Hua said, trying to keep a straight face. "But it''s still a knife in an alchemy contest."
We both laughed, and despite being the butt end of the joke, Tao Ren couldn''t help but chuckle.
Zhi Ruo joined our little group, a quiet smile on his face. "The atmosphere among you is quite easy, considering how the other competitors seem nervous."
I nodded, realizing just how odd it was. Despite being seen as lesser due to our backgrounds, we were the most confident in the room. Perhaps it was that freedom, the lack of expectations in comparison to them, but I was confident in the results. My eyes drifted to Duan Jian, who was brooding in a corner, clearly upset by the judges'' lack of approval for his pill.
"This round might end with all of us, except maybe Tao Ren, qualifying for the next round," I mused, earning a playful punch from the blacksmith.
Ow. That really hurt.
"Hey! Don''t count me out just yet," he retorted, grinning. "The story of Tao Ren''s Jade Foundry doesn''t end here! BELIEVE IT!"
Everyone''s product was ingenious. Even though I joked with Tao Ren, being able to create a blade from the pyrite chunk we were given was nothing short of incredible. Bai Hua''s two-stage incense showcased the potential of a neglected art in alchemy. And Zhi Ruo''s...
Turning to the librarian, I asked, "How did you create your purification pill? Do you have an eidetic memory or something? It''s hard to take into consideration every single reaction, property, and alignment of the ingredients. And don''t say that you''re just well-learnt. Even those judges were stumped by the sheer detail."
Zhi Ruo''s expression grew thoughtful. "I have a skill called the Memory Palace technique," he explained. "It allows me to store and recall vast amounts of information with perfect clarity. It''s...something I learned recently, after the Heavenly Interface came into play."
I blinked in surprise. "You have the Memory Palace technique too? I thought I was the only one."
His eyes widened, clearly baffled. "Too? You have the Memory Palace as well?"
I nodded. "Yes, I learned it quite early on after completing a quest. It was to refine my mind, you see."
The older man shook his head in amazement. "That¡¯s incredible. I thought my Memory Palace technique was impressive, but... Is that why you have that skill? The one where you extract the ingredient''s essences that Ma Hualong mentioned?"
I chuckled. "Yeah, I do. It¡¯s been a complete game-changer in the way I approached alchemy. I credit that to my expertise in herbalism."
Our conversation sparked a realization. I turned to the other two, curious about their experiences. "Bai Hua, Tao Ren, have you experienced anything similar with the Heavenly Interface?"
Bai Hua nodded enthusiastically. "Most of my techniques come from the Heavenly Interface. All my aromatherapy techniques... it came with a quest, much like you said."
"And you sense of smell?"
He waved his hand. "No, no, I had that since I was born. A talent of mine."
"And you? Surely you received something as well,"
Tao Ren grinned, eager to chip in. "Absolutely. The Heavenly Interface gave me several quests to increase my proficiency in smithing, which eventually gave me a technique to control flames just like my old man. He couldn''t believe I learned it at my age. That¡¯s how I managed to create the blade with the pill furnace."
As he spoke, a realization dawned on me. All of us¡ªBai Hua, Zhi Ruo, Tao Ren, and myself¡ªwere here thanks to the Heavenly Interface granting us unique skills. I glanced around the room at Duan Jian and the other competitors. None of them seemed to have received such skills; their concoctions adhered strictly to the standard alchemy principles taught just like those in the Verdant Lotus sect.
Why didn¡¯t the Interface grant them any special skills or abilities? Thinking back to the day it appeared, I remembered the message.
|
WE ILLUMINATE THE PATH TO ASCENSION.
A NEW ERA.
HIDDEN PATHS AWAIT.
|
These cryptic words turned out to be true, illuminating hidden paths for those who dared to tread them. I understood why many people in sects didn''t receive as many esoteric abilities; it was likely due to their already set path in cultivation.
Someone like Duan Jian wouldn''t be interested in cultivating knowledge in aromatherapy or learning how to control flames in the same way we did. The Interface always responded to one''s desires, and it was no wonder they didn''t have as impressive a showing. This might also explain how Jingyu Lian was capable of utilizing arrays despite it being near impossible at our current cultivation stage.
The Heavenly Interface was more than just a tool; it was a gateway to lost techniques and abilities, ones that many sects and cultivators hoarded, hiding their secrets from the rest of the world. It granted us skills and knowledge that we might never have discovered on our own.
"Do any of you know anything about the Interface Mani-"
A loud gong resonated through the lounge, signaling that it was time to return to the arena. We filed back in, the atmosphere thick with anticipation and anxiety. I kept my thoughts to myself, deciding to explore them at a later date. Ma Hualong stood at the center once again, ready to announce the results.
Ma Hualong¡¯s voice echoed through the arena, signaling the announcement of the results.
¡°Ladies and gentlemen, the judges have reached a decision,¡± He began. ¡°The top ten contestants who will move on to the next round are¡¡±
I held my breath, my heart pounding in my chest. This was the moment that would determine our future in the competition.
Ma Hualong started listing the names, beginning with those who placed lower in the top ten. My anxiety spiked with each name that wasn¡¯t mine, but I reminded myself to stay confident. The fact that I hadn''t heard my name yet meant I likely placed higher.
¡°And in fourth place, with his ingenious dual-stage incense, Bai Hua of Summer Sun Cosmetics.¡±
Bai Hua stepped forward, his smile confident. The crowd¡¯s applause was warm, but as he walked to thank the judges, there was a clear understanding that while his dual-stage incense was clever, it lacked the practicality and effectiveness of similar products.
¡°In third place, with his thoughtful Purification Pill, Zhi Ruo of the Million Book Pavilion.¡±
Zhi Ruo¡¯s face lit up with a quiet pride as he stepped forward. The judges recognized the complexity and thoughtfulness of his creation, even if the execution left room for improvement.
¡°In second place, showing incredible creativity and a high degree of theoretical knowledge, but hampered by the design flaw and volatility of her Exploding Pill, Jingyu Lian of the Whispering Wind sect.¡±
She stepped forward, her expression composed but her clenched jaw and stiff movements betrayed her frustration. Her blue eyes flicked briefly towards Elder Wei Lian before she bowed to the judges and took her place among the qualifiers.
¡°And finally, in first place, with the best overall product due to its effectiveness, versatility, and clever usage of Sunfire Blade Grass and pyrite essence, Kai Liu of the Verdant Lotus sect!"
94. Pyrites Promise
I won?
First place?
It felt like the entire arena had their gaze on me. Heart hammering in my ribcage, I did my best to look confident and reassured. I couldn''t lose face in front of all these people.
It didn''t work.
"HELL YEAH!"
I pumped my fist, raising it in the air.
The crowd''s cheers amplified, and I felt a rush of exhilaration. The anxiety that had gripped me moments before melted away, replaced by an intoxicating sense of triumph. The weight on my shoulders lifted, leaving me feeling almost weightless. This feeling, this rush¡ªit was addictive.
I caught sight of Duan Jian, his face twisted in disbelief and anger. His fists were clenched, and his eyes burned with frustration. Before I could even think of what to say, he stormed towards the judges.
"On what basis was I eliminated?" he demanded, his voice tight with barely restrained fury. "I demand that the results be checked by an unbiased party!"
The crowd became dead silent, and I felt goosebumps creeping down my skin as his words echoed through the Marble Jade arena. All of the judges glared at him, including Ma Hualong. Elder Mingmei stepped forward, her gaze icy. Despite being a head shorter, her presence commanded respect. "Are you insinuating that we were biased in our judgment, Duan Jian?"
He faltered for a moment, but he seemed to make his mind up and double down. However, the sheer pressure of everyone''s gaze on him served to temper his rage. "I am merely stating that my Qi Replenishment Pill was of high quality. It deserves to be reconsidered."
Elder Mingmei''s expression hardened further. "All ten of the chosen contestants boasted high-quality alchemical products that adhered to the Gauntlet''s restrictions. Your Qi Replenishment Pill, however, barely utilized pyrite. It was an afterthought, not a core component."
Elder Wei Lian stepped forward, his voice cold and precise. "Furthermore, your pill was not up to par with those among the top ten. It lacked the innovative use of pyrite that we sought in this challenge."
Duan Jian''s face reddened, but he refused to back down. "This doesn''t mean I am less of an alchemist than they are. Pyrite is a useless ingredient¡ªone that only lowly blacksmiths," he pointed a derisive finger at Tao Ren, "would use in their career."
Was he angered about being eliminated? Or because he got eliminated in the same round as Tao Ren?
A few sounds of agreement came from the stands, the tension palpable. Even among the eliminated contestants, some nodded their heads, although didn''t verbalize their agreement. The judges looked among each other, and all collectively sighed.
Elder Wei Lian picked up a chunk of unused pyrite from Duan Jian''s station and held it up. "Pyrite is only useless in the eyes of useless alchemists," he stated coldly.
With a speed belying his age, he traced symbols onto the surface of the table, two distinct circles, glowing with rich qi. Alchemical arrays, just like Jingyu Lian''s...but they were far more complex.
As the symbols glowed brighter, the chunk of pyrite in Elder Wei Lian''s hand began to change. Before our eyes, it started to crystallize, the transformation almost mesmerizing.
I could feel my heart pounding, my breath caught in my throat. The level of skill and control he demonstrated was beyond anything I had ever seen. This was the pinnacle of alchemical mastery.
Elder Wei Lian continued without touching the pyrite, his arrays doing all the work. When the transformation was complete, he held up a perfectly crystallized piece of pyrite, its facets catching the light in a dazzling display.
"Observe," he said, his voice calm but carrying the weight of authority. "On top of its properties shown so far, pyrite also boasts protective properties, ones that can be drawn out in several ways. The way I showed you is just one of them."
He then crushed the crystal in his hand, and it disintegrated into a fine powder. With a smooth motion, he let the powder fall onto his skin, where it seemed to dissolve and form a thin, shimmering layer. The layer moved and swirled like oil on water, a mesmerizing sight.
"This powder, when applied to the skin, creates a protective barrier," Elder Wei Lian explained. "It can deflect attacks from cultivators." To demonstrate, he struck his arm with a qi-infused finger. The shimmering layer glowed and absorbed the impact, dispersing the energy harmlessly.
"The perceived uselessness of an ingredient lies not in the material itself, but in the eyes of the alchemist who uses it," he said, his gaze sweeping across the area and finally resting on Duan Jian. "An alchemist''s true power is in their ability to see potential where others see none."
Duan Jian''s face drained of color. He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out. Thoroughly cowed, he lowered his head, unable to meet anyone''s eyes.
As I watched Elder Wei Lian''s demonstration, a realization dawned on me. Despite my victory, there was still so much to learn about alchemy. To them, we must''ve looked like bumbling, clumsy fools. I had only begun to scratch the surface.
"That''s right!"
A faint voice from the stands shouted out. I looked over to see someone shoving their way out of the stands and into the arena. The height from the stands and where we competed was not insignificant, as an older gentleman fell out and landed on the floor. Landing on one knee, the old man grunted in pain.
"Damn it all, my body doesn''t work like it used to..." He muttered, dusting his robes off nonchalantly, as though he hadn''t trespassed onto the premises.
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Ma Hualong''s stern voice cut through the murmurs of the crowd. "Sir, this area is restricted. You are trespassing¡ª"
But as he took a closer look at the intruder, his eyes widened in recognition. "Master Ren?"
The name didn''t ring a bell for many in the audience, including me, but the judges reacted instantly. They hurried forward, their previously stern faces now filled with respect. Even Elder Mingmei and Elder Wei Lian, venerable elders themselves, seemed to hold this man in high regard.
"Master Ren, it''s an honor," Elder Mingmei said, bowing slightly.
"Indeed, welcome," Elder Wei Lian added. "We weren''t expecting your presence, we would''ve had an open place for you on the panels otherwise."
Master Ren greeted them all with grace, a warm smile spreading across his weathered face. "Thank you, esteemed judges. I was merely here as an observer."
Who was he? Master Ren? If they called him that, then it meant he was on the same level as Master Li Tao, who boasted the Essence Extraction skill. Was that old man truly famous? How come I never heard of him?
I glanced over at the others. Many of them had the same reaction I did. Tao Ren, however, shifted uncomfortably, rubbing his eyes in disbelief. There was something about this old man that unsettled him far more than the rest of us.
Master Ren turned to the audience, building upon Elder Wei Lian''s point. "Transforming ingredients is a fundamental skill in alchemy. It''s about seeing potential where others see only limitations."
"But, there''s a limit," He narrowed his eyes, turning on his heel and walking in a beeline. Straight towards a certain blacksmith.
"Dad?" he squeaked, his voice barely a whisper compared to his usual bellow.
The revelation hit me like a bolt of lightning. Master Ren was Tao Ren''s father. The whispers in the crowd grew louder as the realization spread. Even the judges seemed baffled by the reveal.
Master Ren''s eyes narrowed. "Don''t you ''dad'' me, you overgrown lump of charcoal!" he roared, his voice echoing through the arena. "I send you here to prove your worth as an alchemist, not to turn this prestigious competition into a... a blacksmithing demonstration!"
"But dad," he countered, "who says a great alchemist can''t be a great blacksmith? The principles are practically the same ¨C harnessing the essence of materials, transforming them with skill and intent! It''s just a different kind of furnace!"
Master Ren''s left eye twitched. "Oh, is it now?" He said, standing chest to chest with his son. It was comical, considering how different their physiques were. "The only reason you even know how to extract iron from pyrite is because you were too lazy to gather the proper ores for your failed attempts at making swords. And the tempering technique? My flame tempering technique, no less! Used to forge a blade? If I were dead, I''d be rolling in my grave right now! All the knowledge I taught you, put to waste!"
"But... Dad," Tao Ren pressed on, undeterred, "it worked! It''s a testament to my ingenuity, my ability to adapt! And besides," he added, his voice growing louder as he warmed to his argument, "this is the perfect opportunity to spread the word about the Jade Flame Foundry! We''re not just your dusty old alchemy shop anymore, you know? We''re the future of..." He paused, clearly searching for the right words. "...of alchemically-enhanced blacksmithing!"
Master Ren sagged his shoulders and sighed. With a beaming smile to the judges, he spoke. "I apologize for the interruption. I''ll just be taking this fool with me for a much needed conversation."
He gripped the blacksmith''s ear, pulling him down with not so considerable strength. it was comical; a short, frail-looking elder pulling along a blacksmith with a robust physique as though he were a petulant child. Master Ren''s dramatic exit with Tao Ren in tow left the audience buzzing with murmurs and speculations. Ma Hualong quickly stepped forward, taking control of the situation with his authoritative presence.
"This round is officially over," he proclaimed. "Contestants, the next round will commence in two days. During this time, you will have the opportunity to gather another item from the vault."
I nodded. This was perfect. I''d have to think more about what reward I''d like to receive.
Ma Hualong continued, dropping a tantalizing hint about the next round. "The next round will be straightforward. It is a test of your ability to understand the history of alchemy. We have tested your theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and innovative approaches. Now, we will see how well you understand the roots of our craft."
As we dispersed, I found myself walking alongside Bai Hua and Zhi Ruo towards the lounge. We congratulated each other, feeling a mixture of pride and relief. However, our thoughts soon turned to Tao Ren.
"I feel bad for Tao Ren," Bai Hua said, shaking his head. "He really gave it his all."
"Yeah," Zhi Ruo agreed, his expression thoughtful. "But he has a lot to learn about focus and context. Crafting a knife in an alchemy competition... well, it shows his creativity, if nothing else."
We shared a quiet laugh at his situation. To think the ''old geezer'' he kept talking about was a renowned alchemist...One that even the elders treated with respect. As we talked, I noticed Jingyu Lian making a swift exit from the arena. She didn''t even glance at Elder Wei Lian, her movements stiff and deliberate.
My smile faded. I knew that between our products, hers could''ve just as easily been first place. And I was sure Elder Wei Lian had something to do with it. The man in question was talking animatedly with the other judges. A powerful, senior alchemist from the Lian clan, boasting ties with the strongest sect in the region along with the Alchemy Association. He clearly seemed interested in my Essence extraction skill, but...
"Kai? you there? Hello~?" Bai Hua said in a sing-song voice, waving his hand by my face. "We''re going to eat. Are you coming?"
"Ah," I scratched my head. "I''m...feeling a bit tired after today. Maybe another time."
"Suit yourself. Come on, Zhi Ruo. Let''s go!"
The two quickly made their way out of the arena, and I stood quietly there in the empty lounge. I didn''t know what was going on in the background, and I had no real desire to find out. Her business was hers, after all.
"Eyes on the prize, Kai," I muttered to myself like a mantra. "Eyes on the prize."
Regardless the idea, that I won solely due to Elder Wei Lian''s machinations left a bitter taste in my mouth. I wanted to win against Jingyu Lian at her best, to face her fairly, at her best.
If I didn''t win on my own terms, could I really call it a victory?
As I stepped out of the arena, lost in thought, a familiar voice called out to me. "Kai! Congratulations on your victory!"
It was Feng Wu, his face beaming with pride. He clapped me on the shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. "I knew you had it in you. First place! That''s no small feat. From Kowtow Kai to this... It''s really been a marvel to see you grow."
I managed a smile, but it felt strained. I couldn''t even point out his use of my demeaning nickname. "Thanks, Feng Wu. It''s just... I can''t help but feel like something''s off."
Feng Wu''s brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"
I hesitated, unsure if I should voice my concerns. But Feng Wu was my friend and mentor. If anyone could offer insight, it was him. "It''s about Elder Wei Lian and Jingyu Lian. Did you see how harsh he was on her? It seemed... personal."
He nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I noticed that too. It''s unusual for a judge to be so critical, especially towards someone from their own clan."
"Exactly," I said, my words tumbling out in a rush. "And then there''s the fact that he seemed so interested in my Essence Extraction skill. What if... what if he deliberately pushed Jingyu Lian down to ensure my victory? What agenda does he have?"
Feng Wu was silent for a moment, considering my words. "It''s a possibility," he admitted. "But Kai, even if that were the case, it doesn''t diminish your achievement. Your elixir was exceptional. You earned your place."
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "I know. But it doesn''t feel right. I want to win on my own merits, not because someone else was unfairly judged."
Feng Wu smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "And that''s what makes you a true alchemist, Kai. Your integrity. But listen, even if Elder Wei Lian had ulterior motives, he''s just one judge. The others recognized your skill too. Don''t let this overshadow your success."
His words were a balm to my troubled thoughts. He was right. I couldn''t let suspicions and what-ifs distract me from what lay ahead. The Gauntlet was far from over, and I needed to stay focused.
"You''re right," I said, my resolve strengthening. "I can''t change what happened. All I can do is keep pushing forward, keep improving."
Feng Wu nodded, his smile widening. "That''s the spirit. Now, about that reward from the vault. Any ideas?"
I felt a grin tugging at my lips. "A few. But I need to think it over."
"Well, you have two days," Feng Wu said. "Use them wisely. And remember, I''m here if you need any advice or just want to talk."
I nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude for his support. "Thanks, Feng Wu. I will."
As we walked away from the arena, my mind was already racing with possibilities. The vault was a treasure trove of alchemical resources. With the right choice, I could solidify my position, far after the competition is over. Maybe it was time for me to collect some pills that''ll raise my cultivation.
But more than that, I was determined to prove myself, to show that my victory was earned through skill and knowledge, not favoritism or politics. The next round, with its focus on alchemical history, was the perfect opportunity.
I would dive into the archives, study the ancient texts and scrolls, and uncover the secrets of our craft''s past. I would show the judges, the audience, and most importantly, myself, that I was a true alchemist, worthy of the title.
The Gauntlet had challenged me in ways I never expected, pushing me to my limits and beyond. But with each obstacle, each trial, I felt myself growing, evolving. And I knew, deep in my bones, that this was just the beginning.
The Interface sparked to life with two distinct notifications.
|
Your understanding of the dao has deepened.
Your Mind has reached Mortal Realm - Rank 5
|
|
Quest: Mind Refinement (Breakthrough)
- Revise one-hundred alchemical recipes and improve upon the processes within your Memory Palace. (0/100)
|
The world of alchemy was about to see what I was truly made of.
95. Moonlit Shadows
I sat cross-legged in the confines of my room at the Jade Harmony Inn. If there was any reason to keep advancing, it was so I could keep resting here!
Tianyi fluttered around excitedly, her wings shimmering in the soft lamplight. It''s as though she knew I was celebrating a victory. Or maybe she was excited to drink. That silly little drunkard, who knew how she''d turn out? Windy coiled comfortably on the floor, his eyes glinting with curiosity.
"First place, huh?" Feng Wu said, a proud smile playing on his lips as he sat opposite me. His presence was calming, a steadying force amidst the whirlwind of the Gauntlet.
I felt bad and apologized for keeping him here when he could be training or cultivating. Being my escort must''ve been exhausting. But all he responded with was a shake of his head, saying it was merely his duty.
I couldn''t help but grin. Having the one who brought me to the Verdant Lotus sect witness this was the best I could ask for. "Yeah, first place. Still feels a bit surreal." I had prepared for this moment, gathering a few items to celebrate properly.
Reaching into a small satchel, I pulled out a delicate porcelain cup and poured a generous amount of green plum wine for myself. The sweet, slightly tangy aroma filled the room, mixing with the scent of incense. Next, I poured a small amount into another cup for Tianyi, careful not to spill a drop. Her proboscis extended eagerly as she settled down to drink.
"Here you go, Feng Wu. Green tea, just the way you like it." I handed him a steaming cup, knowing he abstained from alcohol as part of his taoist discipline. He accepted it with a nod of gratitude, the steam curling up around his face.
To complete our little celebration, I placed a small bundle of freshly caught rodents¡ªcourtesy of a local child I''d paid handsomely¡ªnear Windy. His eyes lit up, and he slithered over to inspect his feast.
With our drinks ready, I raised my cup. "To victory," I said, my voice carrying a mix of pride and disbelief.
Feng Wu lifted his tea with a serene smile. "To your hard work paying off, Kai."
Tianyi flitted to the edge of her cup, her wings brushing against the rim as she dipped her proboscis into the wine. The sight was oddly endearing, and I couldn''t help but chuckle.
I considered clinking cups with Windy, but the idea of a dead rodent touching my cup made me reconsider. Instead, I reached out and gently petted him on the head. "And to you, Windy. Thanks for sticking with me."
The serpent turned, its blue eyes lingering on my figure for a second longer than usual. He quickly turned his attention back to his meal, his slender body coiling around the first rodent.
A notification quickly appeared before my eyes.
| You have deepened your bond with the Spirit Beast, Windy. |
|
Name: Windy
Race: Wind Serpent (Aberrant)
Affinity: Wood and Metal
Cultivation Rank: Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 1
Special Abilities:
Tail Whip: Delivers a swift and powerful tail strike infused with qi.
Paralyzing Venom: Injects venom that temporarily paralyzes the target.
Moonlight Empowerment: Gains increased power and vitality under the moonlight.
Bond Level: 1 (Acquaintance) - Windy is familiar with you but does not yet possess a deep connection.
|
Oho! This was the first! Does this mean he now considers me a friend? What did he think I was prior? Emergency food?
Another thing to celebrate, I suppose!
As the evening wore on, the conversation flowed easily, interspersed with laughter and reflections on the day¡¯s events. Tianyi buzzed around happily, and Windy finished his meal, curling up contentedly at my side. The night was ours, a brief respite before the challenges resumed.
In this moment of calm, surrounded by friends and familiars, I felt ready for whatever lay ahead.
After a while, I felt the need to clear my head and stretch my legs. "I think I''ll go for a walk," I announced, setting my empty cup down.
Feng Wu looked up, a hint of concern in his eyes. "Do you want me to come with you?"
I shook my head, smiling. "No, it''s alright. I think I''ll bring Tianyi and Windy. They can be my bodyguards for the evening." I said it lightly, but I could tell Feng Wu understood my need for some alone time.
"Very well," he said, nodding. "Just be careful, and don''t wander too far. The city can be a maze if you''re not familiar with it."
"I will," I assured him. "Besides, I know you could use some time to relax and cultivate in peace."
Feng Wu''s smile returned, and he inclined his head. "Thank you, Kai. Enjoy your walk."
With Tianyi perched on my shoulder and Windy coiled around my arm, I left the inn and stepped out into the cool night air. Crescent Bay City was a wonder, its labyrinthine alleys connecting residences to markets, temples, and other areas with an elegant, seamless flow. For someone like me, who had spent most of my life in a village, it was a marvel.
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As I wandered through the narrow passages, the sights and sounds of the city filled my senses. The soft glow of lanterns illuminated the intricate carvings on the buildings, and the distant hum of conversations and laughter created a soothing backdrop.
I found myself drawn to the alleys, exploring their hidden corners and discovering new spots I had yet to see. Each turn revealed something different¡ªa small shrine nestled in a corner, a bustling market stall, or a tranquil courtyard bathed in moonlight. Perhaps I''d find some additional trinkets to buy along the way. I had a village''s worth of people to grab souvenirs for.
Tianyi fluttered around me, her wings creating a soft, rhythmic sound, while Windy slithered gracefully along my arm, his eyes alert and watchful. Despite their presence, I couldn''t shake the feeling of being followed.
After a while, I noticed the alleys becoming narrower and the sounds of the city fading. I realized I had wandered into a part of the city I hadn''t explored before. Just as I decided to turn back, I found myself in a dead-end alleyway.
"Well, this isn''t ideal," I muttered to myself, turning to retrace my steps.
Before I could move, a figure stepped into the alley, blocking my way. Duan Jian. His eyes were bloodshot, and the smell of alcohol wafted from him. He wasn''t alone; a few other men, who looked just as rough and intoxicated, stood behind him wearing beige and grey attire. It was hard to tell the symbol on their robes as they shifted in the dark, but they looked familiar. Where had I seen them before?
"You!" Duan Jian spat, his voice slurred with anger and drink. "You''re the reason I lost!"
I took a deep breath, trying to keep calm. "Duan Jian, you''re drunk. Let''s not do anything rash. We can settle this without escalating."
Duan Jian sneered, his eyes narrowing. "Settle this? You think you''re better than me because you won? I''ll show you."
The men pushed past, showing varying signs of inebriation. All of them were burly men reminiscent of Ping Hai. That''s when I realized who they were.
"...Narrow Stone Peak? Weren''t their supposed to be five of you?"
The cultivators seemed to sag their shoulders upon mentioning that.
"Gu Bei...he''s passed out right now."
Their leader, the burliest one among them, elbowed the one who responded to me. "Don''t answer him!"
He turned to me with a cocky grin on his face, cracking his knuckles. "You''re going to pay for making us lose face at Spirited Noodle, alchemist. Thanks to you, we became laughingstocks!"
I didn''t even do anything! What was he talking about? How did they even know Duan Jian?
I backed away, keeping a close eye on Tianyi and Windy. I tried to send the butterfly waves of relaxation and calm, but it was rather hard to accomplish with five people cutting off my only path to escape. I grasped Windy''s head, preventing him from poking out with a firm hand.
As much as I''d love my chances against several martial artists, I couldn''t risk escalating it beyond this point or risk my companions getting hurt. I searched my mind for possible options.
"Do you really want to provoke the Verdant Lotus sect by attacking me? Is that something your sect can handle?!" I bellowed out loud, standing proud to hide my inner fears. Hopefully it was loud enough to attract attention, that of guards or civilians.
In ''The Storm Sage Chronicles'', the main character got away thanks to using his sect as a deterrent. It was a staple in the books I read. Only arrogant young masters bluffing their backing''s name ever failed. This left the protagonist with more time to prepare so they could face-slap their enemies into next week! But when I did it, the sensation was quite embarrassing.; like hiding behind someone''s back and cheering them on.
Contrary to my expectations, the Narrow Stone Peak disciples exchanged glances, then pointed at Duan Jian with a unified nod.
"The young master of the Jian family will pull strings to make sure we don''t face any repercussions!" one of them declared, puffing out his chest. "The Jian family is far stronger than the Verdant Lotus sect!"
I froze at this claim. I knew for a fact that they weren''t. The Jian family was wealthy and powerful, yes, but not even a fraction as strong as the Verdant Lotus sect, which was a prestigious sect that had been around for over a century. I looked at Duan Jian, who seemed to be avoiding eye contact with me. It clicked¡ªhe had likely lied to these gullible meatheads, making himself seem more important than he was.
Taking a deep breath, I decided on a new approach. "Tianyi, Windy," I whispered softly, "stay out of this. Find a chance to escape and call for Feng Wu if things get out of hand."
Tianyi fluttered anxiously, and Windy tightened his coils around my arm, clearly unhappy with my instructions. But I needed them safe. I couldn''t bear the thought of them getting hurt because of me.
The leader of the group stepped forward, cracking his knuckles menacingly. "You''re going to regret crossing us, punk."
With no other choice, I struck preemptively. I lunged forward, aiming a swift kick right at the leader''s groin. The force of my kick connected, and he doubled over with a groan, collapsing to the ground. The other disciples hesitated, their confidence wavering as they saw their leader incapacitated.
But their hesitation didn''t last long. Enraged by their comrade''s pain, they surged forward, fists and feet flying.
Slow.
I dodged one punch and parried another, keeping my back close to the wall. Even though I was cornering myself, it was better than having to worry about another person attacking me from behind. Tianyi darted out of the alleyway in a burst of qi, and Windy quickly slithered out of my sleeve and onto the floor with a hiss.
"Wh-what the hell?!"
I took advantage of their surprise and landed a backfist at another disciple''s jaw. Instead of falling over, the man grabbed my arm and prevented me from moving any further.
"Come on! While I have him in my-AGH!"
Windy''s serpentine body coiled around the man''s leg, and I heard something pop as he glowed blue and continued to tighten his grip around the disciple''s leg. That rebellious little snake! He wasn''t listening to my instructions!
Before I could wrestle my arm out and continue the battle, a voice cut through the din of battle.
"What''s going on here?" A chilly voice echoed through the alley, freezing everyone in their tracks. A voice I hadn''t hoped to hear.
We all turned to see Xu Ziqing standing at the entrance of the alley, his expression as cold as his voice. His beard had gotten thicker since I last saw him. "What are you doing causing a ruckus in the Silent Moon''s territory?"
Duan Jian sneered, trying to maintain his bravado. "We''re just taking out the trash. I hope the Azure Moon Marauder won''t mind us cleaning up a bit."
Xu Ziqing''s eyes narrowed. "I do mind. You and your lackeys should leave now, or else be forced to."
Duan Jian, clearly emboldened by the alcohol and his newfound allies, barked out a laugh. "Why would you, a member of the Silent Moon sect, help him? Verdant Lotus and Silent Moon are rivals. Shouldn''t you be enjoying this?"
Xu Ziqing''s expression darkened. In a blink of an eye, his sword was drawn, and a thin line of blood appeared on Duan Jian''s cheek. The threat hung in the air, palpable and undeniable.
"Leave," Xu Ziqing said, his voice a low, menacing growl. "Or the next cut won''t be so gentle."
The Narrow Stone Peak disciples paled, their drunken bravado evaporating in the face of Xu Ziqing''s deadly seriousness. They backed away, helping their leader to his feet. With Duan Jian clutching his cheek, they beat a hasty retreat, disappearing into the night.
Windy uncoiled himself from the disciple''s leg and slithered back to me, while Tianyi fluttered back to my shoulder, her wings stilling as she settled. I hastily picked up Windy, cradling him protectively, my mind racing with worry. Xu Ziqing had seen Windy, and now I had no idea what he would do with that information.
The second-class disciple sheathed his sword and approached me, his gaze sharp and assessing. Our eyes met, and I couldn''t read his expression.
"Well, well, well," Xu Ziqing drawled, his voice dripping with disdain. "Look what we have here¡ªthe pathetic little alchemist who can''t even protect himself."
His words cut deeper than any blade. I felt the sting of embarrassment and humiliation rise within me, but I kept my composure. "Why did you save me?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
A sardonic smile twisted Xu Ziqing''s lips. "Do you think I care about your well-being? Don''t flatter yourself. If those fools had injured a Grand Alchemy Gauntlet contestant while on Silent Moon territory, it would have reflected poorly on us. Besides," he paused, his eyes gleaming with a strange light, "consider this repayment for your interference in Qingmu."
I stared at him, a mix of confusion and gratitude swirling within me. Could it be that Xu Ziqing wasn''t as heartless as he appeared? Before I could dwell on this thought, he spoke again, his voice as cold as ice.
"A Wind Serpent..." He said, his gaze fixated on Windy. "Where did you find this creature?"
My heart pounded in my chest, a mixture of fear and defiance rising within me. "None of your business," I retorted, holding Windy tighter. His blue eyes shimmered and his body glowed a faint blue as if sensing my unease.
Xu Ziqing raised an eyebrow, a mocking smile playing on his lips. "Feisty, aren''t we? A pity that your spirit is stronger than your cultivation. If you remain as weak as you are, it''s only a matter of time before this Wind Serpent, and that butterfly, are taken away from you."
My blood ran cold. He was right. As much as I hated to admit it, my current strength wasn''t enough to protect my familiars. But the thought of losing them filled me with a rage I had never known before.
"What are you doing here, Xu Ziqing?" I asked, my voice hardening. "Why are you lurking in the shadows like a common thief?"
He chuckled, a low, throaty sound that sent chills down my spine. "I''m merely running errands for Elder Jun. You''ll see for yourself soon enough."
His words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken menace. I watched as he turned and disappeared into the darkness, leaving me alone with my thoughts and fears.
As I stood there in the empty alleyway, the weight of Xu Ziqing''s words pressed down on me. He was right. I was weak. I needed to get stronger, not just for myself, but for Tianyi and Windy. I couldn''t let them become victims of my weakness.
96. Lessons in Vigilance
Stupid, stupid, stupid!
I should''ve known. I just decided to ignore the signs; and now I owe a debt to Xu Ziqing. Who knows what he''ll do with it?
Carrying Windy on my arm and Tianyi keeping pace with ease, I made my way back to Jade Harmony Inn as fast as I possibly could. Every shadow in the dark felt like a potential enemy, just waiting for me to drop my guard.
When I finally reached the inn, I burst through the door of our room, startling Feng Wu. His calm, steady presence was a stark contrast to the turmoil inside me.
¡°Kai, what happened?¡± Feng Wu asked, his voice filled with concern.
I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. ¡°I... I got into some trouble. Duan Jian and a few of his lackeys ambushed me. You remember those guys from Spirited Noodle? They said they were out for revenge because I won the Gauntlet round or something, drunk off their minds...I managed to fight them off, but then Xu Ziqing showed up. He saved me, sort of. But now I owe him.¡±
The words flowed out of me like a waterfall, trying to get every detail I could.
Feng Wu¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°This is serious. Attacking you is tantamount to attacking the Verdant Lotus sect. Elder Zhu needs to be informed. We won¡¯t take this lightly.¡±
I nodded, feeling a wave of guilt wash over me. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Feng Wu. I should¡¯ve known better. I put myself in danger and now I¡¯ve dragged the sect into it.¡±
He shook his head, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder. ¡°You can¡¯t blame yourself, Kai. Your entry into the Jianghu was recent. You¡¯re still learning. But from now on, you need to be more cautious. Avoid leaving the inn unless you¡¯re in a group or it¡¯s broad daylight. It¡¯s much harder to be attacked under those conditions. I should''ve known better as well, letting you out on your own.¡±
His words were a balm to my guilt, but I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of stupidity that lingered. ¡°I¡¯ll be more careful. I promise. But why was Xu Ziqing there? Didn''t you mention the Silent Moon sect has been laying low since the duel against Ping Hai.¡±
¡°That¡¯s another concern,¡± Feng Wu admitted. ¡°The Silent Moon sect¡¯s reappearance could mean they¡¯re planning something. We¡¯ll need to keep our eyes open.¡±
I cursed myself again. ¡°I should have known. I was so stupid to wander off alone.¡±
¡°Kai, don¡¯t be so hard on yourself,¡± Feng Wu said firmly. ¡°What matters is that you learn from this.There are people who might want to sabotage you to affect the Gauntlet¡¯s outcome.¡±
I nodded, the reality of his words sinking in. ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll be more careful from now on.¡±
¡°Good,¡± he said, his expression softening slightly. ¡°Now, get some rest. I¡¯ll keep an eye out tonight.¡±
As I lay down, the events of the night replayed in my mind. Windy and Tianyi didn''t seem to react much to the day''s events. The snake slithered down to the corner, seemingly more concerned with resting. Perhaps I should learn a thing or two from him, seeing how lax he was after today''s events. Time passed, as much as I tried, I wasn''t any closer to being able to sleep than an hour ago.
The image of Tianyi being crushed underfoot by the Narrow Stone Peak disciples and Windy being taken away haunted my vision. My hands trembled, and I curled up in my bed trying to erase that thought/.
As the unsettling images replayed in my mind, I knew I wouldn''t be able to sleep. I needed to address my worries directly. Taking a deep¡ªalbeit shaky breath, I closed my eyes and focused, diving into my memory palace.
The familiar surroundings of my memory palace materialized around me, a tranquil garden filled with vibrant plants and towering trees. Each tree, representing various disciplines and knowledge I had accumulated throughout my life, their leaves rustling softly in the imaginary breeze. This place was my sanctuary, a space where I could reflect and learn.
I walked through the garden, the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of birdsong soothing my nerves. I found the tree tied directly to my memories, its branches heavy with fruit representing my experiences. Reaching up, I picked a fruit and split it open, revealing the vivid details of the day''s events inside.
I began to review the experience of wandering around Crescent Bay City. The sights and sounds came back to me in vivid detail. I walked through the events again, trying to pinpoint the exact moment when Duan Jian and his goons started following me. Although I had a gut feeling, it wasn''t based on any real logic. Just a small, niggling sensation at the back of my head.
The marketplace... the shrine... the courtyard... I paused, zooming in on each memory, analyzing the background for any signs of my pursuers. There¡ªjust a glimpse of a familiar face in the crowd. I traced it back further, cataloging each sighting meticulously. They had been following me for longer than I realized. Probably when I passed that bar.
How could I have missed it? I needed to train my sensitivity and vigilance better. I replayed the events again, noting every potential warning sign I had overlooked. Each alley, each turn¡ªwhat should I have done differently?
When I passed the market stall, I should have noticed the way one of the men lingered a bit too long by the vendor. In the courtyard, the way another had pretended to adjust his boot but had really been watching me. These details had seemed insignificant at the time, but now I saw them for what they were¡ªmissed opportunities to avoid danger.
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I continued this mental exercise, reviewing and cataloging my mistakes. It was a way to learn, to ensure I wouldn''t make the same errors again. The process was soothing, allowing me to confront my anxieties head-on. The more I went over the events, the more I felt a sense of control returning. I couldn''t change what had happened, but I could prepare better for the future.
I woke early, determined to make the most of the day. After a quick breakfast, I left Tianyi and Windy behind in the room. Today, I was going to collect my reward from the vault-keeper at the Alchemy Association.
The streets of Crescent Bay City were already bustling with activity, merchants setting up their stalls and vendors calling out their wares. I walked briskly, my mind focused on the task at hand. I knew exactly what I wanted to get.
Approaching the Alchemy Association''s towering building, I felt a feeling of readiness. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting long shadows from the spire.
The clerk recognized me immediately, taking my entry token and quickly guiding me to where the vault was. We passed through the layers of security with ease. Through every door, guarded by cultivators, I wondered how someone would even begin with a break-in. Unless they brought three sect elders, I don''t think it was possible to do such a thing.
The vault-keeper stared at me with an appraising eye, and the clerk excused herself, leaving me alone with the old man.
He was dressed in robes of sky blue, their dignified appearance lending an air of authority to the room. His hair was a pristine white, and his eyes, though clouded with age, sparkled with a sharp intelligence.
I greeted him respectfully, bowing slightly. "Good morning, sir."
He inclined his head in response. "Ah... Kai Liu, correct? It''s good to see you again. Have you had any success in reviving the Golden Bamboo yet?"
I smiled sheepishly. "Not yet, sir. It''s only been a few days since we last spoke. These things take time."
I suppose it was quite telling if he expected me to revive a nigh-extinct species in just three days. I always gave off that genius vibe, after all.
He chuckled, the sound warm and genuine. "Of course, of course. Forgive an old man his impatience. My memory isn''t what it used to be, especially when I spend most of my days down here. Time tends to blur."
Oh. He was just senile.
I nodded, wondering who this man truly was. His demeanor and knowledge suggested someone of great importance, yet his humility was striking. Before I could ponder further, he gestured towards the vault.
"Now then, where would you like to start?"
"I think I''d like to look around first, if that''s alright," I said. "I''d like to consider all the options before making a decision."
The vault-keeper smiled, a hint of pride in his expression. "Very well. Follow me."
As we walked through the vault, he provided information about every item we passed. The depth of his knowledge was astounding. Each artifact had a story, each ingredient a history. The vault was filled with treasures, some I had only read about in ancient texts.
"This here is the Cinnabar Rock Crystal," he said, pointing to a crystalline object encased in glass. "When processed carefully, can help you cultivate yang-based martial arts."
"And this," he continued, moving to a shelf lined with small vials, "is the Deep Sea Kelp Heart. it has been dehydrated for preservation and concentration of its properties, used mainly in products to raise resistance against cold and yin energies."
I listened, fascinated, as he described each item. His passion for alchemy was evident in every word, and I couldn''t help but feel inspired. It didn''t feel like knowledge from a book, but one gained from firsthand experience. Something about the way he talked, and explained each item, its as though he had personal history with them.
"Who are you?" I finally asked, unable to contain my curiosity any longer. "You know so much about all of these obscure ingredients, and extensively at that. It''s incredible."
The vault-keeper paused, a wistful smile on his lips. "My name is Guowei Wang. I...I am merely a custodian of these treasures, ensuring they are preserved and protected for future generations."
The name didn''t ring a bell, but his humility and knowledge were impressive. But with all that in mind, it only solidified my decision. "Thank you, Guowei Wang. Your guidance has been invaluable. I''ve made my decision. I''d like to select the Breezesong Fruit."
He nodded approvingly. "A wise choice. Although the vault contains many treasures that are never seen in the public light, it doesn''t necessarily mean they are better. The Breezesong Fruit is still an incredible ingredient. I hope it serves you well."
I bowed deeply. "Thank you, Master Guowei. Your guidance has been invaluable. Perhaps I could visit you again sometime to hear more of your stories?"
The vault-keeper''s cloudy eyes looked at me in surprise. For a moment, he looked down before bursting out in laughter.
"Ah, it''s been a long time since anyone''s shown interest in an old man''s tales. I''d be delighted, young man. Visit whenever you feel like it," Guowei Wang said with a gracious smile. To facilitate this, he grabbed a slip of paper from his desk and began scrawling symbols on it. They didn''t make much sense to me, but I knew better than to question an alchemical master.
"Show this to the clerk outside," he explained. "It will allow you to meet me whenever you please."
"Thank you, sir," I said, accepting the paper with a deep bow.
"Now, how would you like to receive the Breezesong Fruit?" Guowei Wang asked.
"I''d like to have it delivered to the Verdant Lotus sect," I replied. "It''s difficult to keep it safe at this point in time."
The vault-keeper nodded in understanding. "Very well. It will be sent out shortly."
With my request fulfilled, I left the vault-keeper and ascended up to the main floor, my thoughts heavy on the Breezesong Fruit. Its instrumental role in my plans loomed large in my mind, especially in conjunction with the Wind Serpent beast core I had yet to utilize. I''d make an elixir, one that would ensure I''d grow strong enough to defend against any threats that came my way. The two ingredients together promised unparalleled potential. And with the Breezesong Fruit seeds, I could cultivate more in the future, ensuring a steady supply.
As I made my way out, lost in thought, a boisterous voice jolted me back to reality, my heart leaping in my chest.
"KAI! OVER HERE!"
I turned to see Tao Ren, looking slightly worse for wear but decidedly more refined in a distinguished robe. His short, unruly hair had been slicked back, transforming his appearance from the crazed smith I knew to a dignified noble. It was the first time I''d seen him since his father had dragged him out of the arena.
"Tao Ren? What happened to you?"
He sagged his shoulders, glancing around as if worried someone might overhear. "That geezer of mine''s been harping on me about image and face, or whatever. He wants me to meet some of his buddies from the association, make connections and all that."
The blacksmith jabbed his thumb to where the clerk was, and I could see his father having an animated discussion with her. She seemed flustered by his appearance.
I couldn''t resist a teasing jab. "Tch. I can''t believe you were hiding such a thing from your friends. You were secretly a noble! Just like those snobbish contestants looking down on us." I wiped a fake tear from my eye with my sleeve. To think that Bai Hua and Tao Ren came from such outstanding backgrounds. What''s next, Zhi Ruo being the long-lost descendant of the Imperial Emperor?
He rolled his eyes and slung his arm around my neck as we walked together. "Come on, don''t be like that! I knew my geezer was an alchemist too, but not at that scale. He never said he was a bigshot with the Alchemy Association."
I looked at him incredulously. Was he really that obtuse, having never picked up on such a detail? "So you''re still going to meet with them?"
"Of course! I may have been eliminated from the Gauntlet, but if I get buddy-buddy with some of these powerful people, won''t it make starting my own smithing business a breeze? Acquiring a permit to set up shop here''s the next step, after all!"
I sighed. It seemed that despite everything, Tao Ren was still the same; that sheer determination would get him somewhere in life, without a doubt. And judging by his father, it was clear to see where he got it from.
"Hey, how about after this, we go grab a meal together? This meeting shouldn''t take too long."
I hesitated for a moment, remembering Feng Wu''s words. But it was still daytime, and as long as I was accompanied by others and stayed in crowded areas, it should be fine.
"Sure, where do you think would be good?"
"The Cloudrift Pavilion was good according to Bai Hua. Ever heard of it?"
I nodded, recalling my previous visit and the day I had met Jingyu Lian again. "I went there before. It''s really good. I''ll go if it''s on your tab, young master Tao Ren."
He waved me off. "Of course, of course! Anything for my juniors." He said with a cheeky grin. To be fair, this dignified look suited him. With his towering physique, I noticed many women around us glancing at him with flushed faces. How ironic, to think that the one Duan Jian despised as a peasant would be related to someone so important.
"I''ll go grab a seat then, I know how busy it gets. Don''t take too long, okay?"
With our plans confirmed, I looked over to the Cloudrift Pavilion, visible from where we stood. It was situated in a prime location, one of the most popular spots in the city. Coupled with its proximity to the Whispering Wind sect, I was confident there''d be no place to stage an ambush like in the alleys. I wouldn''t take Windy or Tianyi out with me anymore, not unless I had Feng Wu to accompany me. Until I could protect them and myself, flaunting them around would be impossible.
I just have to be careful.
With that mantra repeating in my head, I began my trek towards the restaurant.
97. Nuts About Secrets
"I hope Elder Zhu would be willing to help me make the elixir..." I mumbled to myself.
Having his support to create such a product would guarantee its success, and I didn''t want to make mistakes with such valuable ingredients. Maybe he''ll be more partial to it once I win the Gauntlet! Haha!
Walking into Cloudrift Pavilion, I was met with an airy, elegant interior that instantly put me at ease. The restaurant was designed with a wind theme, giving it an open, breezy feel. The walls were adorned with delicate paintings of clouds and gusts of wind, while the ceiling was a vast expanse of sky blue with intricate, swirling patterns. The dining area was spacious, with tables arranged to provide a scenic view of the city from all angles. Open windows lined the walls, allowing natural light to flood in and offering breathtaking vistas of Crescent Bay City.
A waiter approached me with a polite smile. "Good evening, sir. How many will be dining with us tonight?"
"Just two. I''m expecting someone shortly," I replied.
"Of course. Do you have a seating preference? We have several tables available, and there are even more options upstairs if you prefer."
I glanced around the room, my eyes drawn to a corner table situated at the edge of the dining area. It offered an unobstructed view of the city, with the lights twinkling like stars below. "I''ll take that table in the corner," I said, pointing to it.
"Excellent choice," the waiter said, leading me to the table. "Please, have a seat. Here is the menu. Can I get you something to drink while you decide on your order?"
I settled into the chair, taking in the panoramic view of the city. "I''ll have a cup of green tea, please," I said, needing something to calm my nerves after the tumultuous day.
As I waited, I opened the menu and began to peruse the offerings. My mind, however, kept drifting back to the events of the day and the possibilities ahead. The Breezesong Fruit, Duan Jian, and tomorrow''s round... It was a lot to digest.
My thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of my tea. The waiter set the steaming cup before me with a practiced grace. "Here you go, sir. Have you decided on your order, or do you need a few more minutes?"
I smiled, shaking my head. "I need a few more minutes, thank you."
"Take your time," he said, stepping back to give me space.
I sipped the tea, feeling the warmth spread through me. It was soothing, a momentary respite from the whirlwind of my thoughts. The gentle hum of conversations around me and the serene ambiance of the Cloudrift Pavilion helped me to relax, if only slightly. The view from my table was mesmerizing. Crescent Bay City stretched out below, the buildings illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. The bustling streets, the distant sounds of music and laughter¡ªall of it painted a picture of a vibrant, living tapestry.
But through the din of idle chatter, I heard a voice, faint but familiar. "Father, I¡ª"
I froze, my ears straining. That was Jingyu Lian''s voice. Glancing up, I realized the source was from the floor above. My heart raced as I strained to catch more of the conversation.
"Be quiet and let me keep speaking," another voice chided, presumably her father''s. It was strong and authoritative.
The voices faded into a quiet, unintelligible whisper. My curiosity was piqued, I needed to hear more. Half-tempted to crawl up the railing and strain my ears, I considered my options. Moving my table upstairs was out of the question; it would draw too much attention.
Desperately, I glanced at the menu, searching for inspiration. My eyes landed on the Gingko Nut Stir Fry Vegetables dish. The idea sparked, and I waved the waiter over.
"Excuse me," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "Could I order the Gingko Nut Stir Fry Vegetables? But could you serve the gingko nuts separately and as quickly as possible?"
The waiter looked slightly puzzled but nodded. "Of course, sir. I¡¯ll have that prepared right away."
As he walked away, I tapped my fingers on the table, my mind racing. The gingko nuts, known for their properties to enhance cognitive functions and senses, were my best bet. If I could enhance my hearing, I might catch more of the conversation upstairs.
Minutes felt like hours as I waited for the dish to arrive. The voices above remained low, frustratingly just out of reach. I sipped my tea, trying to maintain my composure, but the urgency gnawed at me.
Finally, the waiter returned with a small bowl of gingko nuts, fragrant as cow manure. "Here you are, sir," he said, placing them before me.
"Thank you," I said, barely able to contain my disgust. Eugh! That smell was potent!
I double-checked the nuts and how thoroughly cooked they were. Translucent bright green and tender to the touch, they were cooked perfectly. That would help degrade the aptly named gingko toxin that could''ve caused vomiting. Hopefully this gamble pays off.
Taking the bowl and discretely hiding it under the tablecloth, I began extracting their essences, hoping that glow wouldn''t be too powerful.
I could feel the slightest pull on my qi reserves, letting me know that even though I couldn''t see it, the technique was working just fine.
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I quickly slipped the essences into my green tea, watching as the liquid took on a dull glow and emitted a potent smell, multiplying the intensity of the gingko nut''s odor.. Almost immediately, the people around me began to wrinkle their noses and mutter complaints about the garbage-like scent wafting through the air. Ignoring the commotion, I swiftly drank the tea, the strange odor persisting.
Despite the horrendous violation the gingko nuts brought upon my nose, the taste was quite pleasant.
Setting the now dull and stale-looking gingko nuts back on the table, I closed my eyes, feeling the immediate effects. My senses sharpened to an uncomfortable extent¡ªsmells, sounds, and sights all intensified. Even the lingering scent of gingko nuts came back in full force. I had to focus, tuning out the overwhelming sensory input to concentrate on the voices above.
With my enhanced hearing, I could catch every word, even their hushed tones.
"¡ªYour performance must be impeccable to counteract his influence."
"I know, father," Jingyu Lian murmured. "I can do it without resorting to these...tactics. I just made a mistake in the last round. I know I¡¯m the best alchemist among the contestants."
Her father sighed. "Yes, your skills are unparalleled. But there are other contestants who pose a serious threat, including the one with the Essence Extraction skill. It''s been thought lost for decades, yet he wields it as if it were second nature. He could challenge you and make this situation all the more precarious. A thousand-mile dike can be destroyed by an ant''s nest. And with him judging in the later rounds, he won''t leave any stone unturned. Even securing a place to talk was difficult. My brother has eyes and ears all over our compound."
Hearing this, a thrill of pride surged through me. Even Jingyu Lian''s father acknowledged my skills. Truly! As Feng Wu once said, a thousand-mile horse is rare, but not as rare as the who can recognize and appreciate it! To think one of my greatest admirers would be Jingyu Lian''s own father! No wonder she''s so jealous towards m-
"We can''t afford to take chances," her father continued. "Taking risks is a luxury we cannot afford. Your victory must be assured, even if it requires certain... adjustments. The upcoming round will test your ability to decipher a partially-given recipe. We have put measures in place to ensure your success. You will follow them. Is that clear?"
My heart raced as I leaned in closer, straining to hear every word. Deciphering a recipe? Her father knew what was happening in the next round?
"Father, please," She pressed on, her voice still in a low whisper. "Elder Wei Lian can''t¡ª"
"My brother can, and will." Her father interrupted. Even though I was an entire floor down, I could feel chills going down my spine. Jingyu Lian quieted down immediately. "Do you realize how long he''s been waiting for this? This extends beyond your personal honor; it encompasses my standing within the sect. Your defeat would bolster his son''s claim to lead the alchemy pavilion, an outcome disastrous for our clan. Can you shoulder this responsibility?"
The last words leaving his mouth felt like a punch to the gut.
She didn''t respond. Only silence remained, before her father''s voice continued, albeit softer this time. "...Although the specific recipe isn''t chosen until the round begins, my informant''s made sure that the interior of the envelope on your station will contain all the information you need to pass the round at first place. Make sure to revise your knowledge before then."
Jingyu Lian''s reluctance was palpable in her silence. I could almost see her conflicted expression, torn between her principles and the immense pressure her father was placing on her.
"Little Jing," her father said softly, his tone taking on an affectionate note. "This is all to secure your future. If it weren''t for Wei Lian''s interference, you would have won the Gauntlet cleanly, and I would have allowed you to go unimpeded. But we must adapt to the situation. You understand, don''t you?"
There was a heavy pause before she finally spoke, her voice filled with reduced to the softest whisper that even I could barely hear with my enhanced senses. "Yes, father. I understand."
"Our clan''s legacy rests upon your shoulders, Jingyu. This is not merely about winning a competition, but about upholding our family''s honor and maintaining our position. You have the talent, but you must also wield the wisdom to navigate these trials if you want to be the next head. Do not let sentiment cloud your judgment."
Her father''s chair scraped against the floor as he stood up, the sound echoing in the now silent space. His footsteps were deliberate and measured as he walked away, leaving Jingyu Lian alone. The quiet that followed was profound, filled only with the subtle rustle of fabric and the occasional clink of cutlery from the other diners. I opened my eyes, now letting myself relax as the conversation ended. My back was covered in sweat, both from intense focus and the weight of this situation.
I sat back, my mind swirling with thoughts. The depth of the competition''s intrigue was far beyond what I had imagined. Not only was there personal pride at stake, but the very fabric of sect politics and family honor was intertwined in this Gauntlet.
What should I do with this information? If I revealed it, it could ruin Jingyu Lian''s reputation and her father''s standing. But if I kept it to myself, it would mean allowing this deceit to potentially mar the competition. The fairness and integrity of the Gauntlet were at risk.
She was an arrogant, entitled princess who thought the world belonged to her. But... I couldn''t call her a bad person. But even she doesn''t want to do this. It was all because of stupid sect politics and geezers interfering, putting their noses where they don''t belong. It had parallels to the situation between me, Ping Hai, and Elder Jun.
I suppose it was true; one can know a person''s face, but not their heart.
"Damn it..." I whispered, rubbing my forehead for the ensuing headache.
I glanced over to the entrance of the restaurant, spotting Tao Ren. As he glanced around looking for me, I already knew what he was going to do.
With my increased reflexes, I bolted out of my table and sprinted towards him. The noise caught his attention, and he stared right at me with a big grin on his face. I could see him open his mouth, take the slightest intake of breath before beginning to shout at the top of his lungs.
"K-¡ªurgh!"
Before he could shout my name and reveal my presence to the unaware Lian family on the second floor, I slapped a hand across his mouth and placed a finger to my lips.
"Please, please! Just be quiet. Let''s bring you to the table." I muttered, looking around and apologizing to the nearby tables for the commotion.
I grabbed the muscled man and practically dragged him to the corner where our table was. Looking around, I swiveled his seat to face the open window, and moved myself across from him.
"Sorry, Tao Ren. Just be quiet for a little bit and don''t move. Just stay in place."
Despite my instructions, he glanced from left to right, obviously confused. "Kai, what is going on?"
"I''ll tell you in a bit. Just¡ªjust be quiet, okay?"
I hid my face as best I could, taking advantage of Tao Ren''s large frame. I watched as Jingyu Lian''s father came down the stairs. It was the first time I had ever seen him.
Jingyu Lian''s father had a dignified aura, but one that didn''t command much attention. His robes were nice, but not to the level of opulence I expected from a clan leader, especially considering how extravagantly Duan Jian was dressed. He was probably trying to be inconspicuous. His face was stern, lined with the weight of responsibilities and perhaps the toll of endless scheming, as expected of most sect elders.
As he reached the bottom of the stairs, he paused for a moment. My heart skipped a beat, hoping he didn''t sense my gaze. But then he snapped his head in my direction, and I hurriedly looked down, pretending to focus on the menu, praying he didn''t notice me.
"I''d like to place my order," Tao Ren called the waiter over, his voice breaking the tension. He ordered his dish, chatting casually while I kept my head low, feigning interest in the menu.
A few tense seconds passed, and then I saw Jingyu Lian''s father glide towards the door. His steps echoed in my heightened senses until he finally exited. I breathed a sigh of relief, my muscles relaxing as the tension ebbed away.
The blacksmith leaned in, curiosity written all over his face. "Alright, spill it! What''s with all the cloak and dagger stuff?"
I sighed. I didn''t even know where to begin. Or rather, should I even begin?
I glanced over at him once more, seeing him tilt his head to the side. His slicked back hair was already beginning to fall back into its natural, tousled mess. He reminded me of a large, friendly buffalo. I think Tao Ren could be trusted with this information.
My mouth moved, as quiet as humanly possible, explaining the situation to him. His eyes widened in shock, and moved towards the ceiling as though he expected to see Jingyu Lian peering down on us from the next floor.
"I know that you''re usually quite..." I fumbled around for the proper word to call him. "...lively, but please, for my sake and yours, keep this between us."
"You know me, Kai. I won''t tell a soul. Blacksmith''s honor. But this is your problem more than it is mine. What are you going to do about it?"
I was thankful he minded his voice, lowering it to a quiet whisper. "That''s my problem. I don''t know what to do. Clearly there''s more to this than what we''ve seen. I don''t want to ruin her here. But if it puts the integrity of the Gauntlet at risk..."
Tao Ren wiggled his eyebrows. "You don''t want to rat out the girl you''ve been fancying; I understand. I don''t know what I''d do in your situation; maybe I''d tell my old man. He could do something about it."
I clenched my fist, fighting the strong urge to sock him in the face. But as he said the last part, something in my mind clicked.
"...Tao Ren, is your father still around? Perhaps there is a way we can go about this."
98. The Weight of History (and Pestles)
"Kai!"
A wave of exotic fragrance washed over me, snapping me out of my reverie. I looked over to see Bai Hua, a vision of flamboyant elegance as usual, but with an added touch of intrigue.
"What happened to your hair?"
Contrary to his usual style of having it half-up and half-down, the perfumer let it flow down his shoulders. His hair shimmered like spun silk, cascading smoothly and catching the light in an almost mesmerizing way.
"Do you like it?" Bai Hua asked with a grin, running a hand through his glossy locks.
"Can I touch it?" I asked, unable to hide my curiosity.
Bai Hua leaned forward, offering a lock of his hair. I reached out, gently running my fingers through it. It was unbelievably soft, like touching a cloud made of the finest threads.
"This feels amazing," I marveled. "What did you do?"
Bai Hua''s grin widened, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "A touch of alchemy, my friend. Bee propolis, also known as Bee''s Glue, to be precise. It''s from a rare, extinct species I managed to wrangle from the Alchemy Association''s vault. But pure propolis has a rather... pungent aroma, wouldn''t you say?" he added with a mischievous wink.
"Pungent?" I echoed, wrinkling my nose slightly as I imagined the raw ingredient.
"Precisely," he chuckled. "That''s why I added a touch of my own creation ¨C a special blend of floral essences and musk to enhance its conditioning properties and mask the¡ less desirable aspects of the propolis."
I sighed, shaking my head playfully. "Here we go again with the vanity," I teased, a small smile tugging at my lips despite myself. Bai Hua did lighten the mood a bit, pushing aside the pre-competition nerves gnawing at me.
But my relief was short-lived. A quick scan of the room confirmed my suspicion ¨C Jingyu Lian was absent. Where could she be?
Bai Hua''s laughter filled the air, oblivious to my internal turmoil. "And here we go with the denial about your appearance," he countered, his voice laced with amusement. "Remember that ''special'' aroma you sported when we first met? Let''s just say it was...unique."
I clutched myself, embarrassed. "Only you could detect that with your freakish sense of smell! And for the record, that was Windy, not me! I assure you, I usually smell perfectly pleasant."
This was going to be an ongoing thing, wasn''t it? First it was Ma Xi sniffing me at the Tranquil Breeze Farm, now this! Gardeners, after all, were practically one with nature, right? Why shouldn''t I smell like it ¨C a delightful mix of fresh earth and blooming flowers?
Bai Hua smirked, a glint in his mischievous eyes. "Maybe so, maybe not. But a little effort in self-care never hurt anyone, Kai. A touch of perfume, some well-chosen garments ¨C it all contributes to a good first impression."
I rolled my eyes, a familiar back-and-forth we''d developed over time. We continued our banter for a few minutes, the air thick with the playful energy of our sparring. Zhi Ruo sat nearby, engrossed in a book, his studious demeanor a contrast to our lively exchange.
Bai Hua smoothly steered the conversation back to his initial point. "Now, don''t get me wrong, the vanity part is true," he admitted with a wink. "But there''s a purpose behind the madness. This whole bee propolis thing? It''s not just about my glorious locks, you see." A glint of genuine passion ignited in his eyes. "I''m planning to use this to convince my father to invest in bee farms. He has no idea about the potential of bees beyond honey production."
With the way he talked, I sometimes forgot Bai Hua was the heir to a large and famous business, one that made more money in a day than I had in my entire lifetime. But that''s what I liked about Bai Hua; he was down to earth, and never treated others lower than him. Why couldn''t all young masters be like him?
He pressed another narrow-necked vial to my face, covering up the bottom half of his face with his sleeve.
"Do something about that odor, will you? I can still smell that repugnant snake musk! Do you have it draped over your shoulders when you sleep?"
Well, maybe not exactly like him.
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At that moment, Jingyu Lian entered the room. Her presence demanded attention, everyone''s eye turning to see the favorite to win the Gauntlet.
I had always grouped her with the other aristocrat and clan-affiliated contestants, but the longer I observed her, the more I noticed she didn''t play nice with them either. When Duan Jian attempted to curry favor with her, she shot it down every single time. Her self-assured presence coupled with her striking looks made her into a one-woman show.
But now, Jingyu Lian looked different. Her body language screamed anxiety and fatigue. Her usually sharp eyes had bags underneath, and her expression was dark and gloomy. She leaned against the wall near the door, closing her eyes as if trying to find a moment of peace amidst the chaos.
"You''re staring," Bai Hua teased, nudging me with his elbow. "In most cultures, that''s taken as a sign of romantic interest."
I pushed him lightly. "It''s not like that. She just looks... different."
"Uh-huh, sure," Bai Hua said with a knowing smirk. "Just remember, if you start composing poetry for her, make sure to send me a copy."
He was lucky that this young master was so magnanimous! A lesser person would''ve face-slapped him back into the cycle of reincarnation. But I, Kai Liu, will spare this puny perfumer''s life. Just this once!
I was about to strike back with a retort when Ma Hualong entered the room, his presence commanding immediate attention. The conversations died down as all eyes turned to him.
He stared at us for a second, one that seemed to last for hours. Then, he spoke. He had that look on his face, much like Feng Wu and Elder Ming when they were about to say something really cool and profound.
"Every ingredient, every technique, every symbol... they all hold a story."
Ma Hualong paused, allowing for the words to sink in.
"This round, you will be presented with a partially translated recipe. It is a relic from a bygone era, and it is your task to create the original product based on what you have."
I bit my lip. Jingyu Lian''s father was right, and it only confirmed the fact he truly had an insider within the Gauntlet. Her eyes were closed, and her brows furrowed upon hearing the information. As though she hoped it would be wrong. Many of the contestants seemed nervous at the idea of deciphering a recipe. In a way, wasn''t it harder than creating your own? My mind whirled with possible ways they could misdirect the contestants; a single step missed, or one differing ingredient could give you a poison or an antidote. That was how volatile most recipes were.
"The recipe will be made available on your stations," Ma Hualong continued. "And as a reward for their high performance in the previous round, the top three contestants will be given the chance to ask me a question regarding the recipe. However, I can only answer with a yes or no."
My heart raced. Being one of the top three performers meant I had an immense opportunity. A single question, if used wisely, could make the difference between success and failure.
Ma Hualong then concluded, "At the end of this round, the original recipe will be revealed. The five contestants who produce the closest product and recipe will advance to the finals, where the champion of this year''s Gauntlet will be decided."
The gravity of his words hung in the air, filling the room with a palpable tension. This was it¡ªthe moment we had all been working towards. Despite the burdens I carried, the excitement of seeing my goal so close was electrifying.
The door to the arena opened, and we filed out in a line. I could see Zhi Ruo ahead of me, deep in thought and muttering to himself. His intense concentration was almost intimidating.
As we were led from the lounge to the arena, my thoughts were a whirlwind. The significance of this round, the stakes, and the intricacies of deciphering a recipe from ancient times weighed heavily on my mind. But amidst these thoughts, something else caught my attention. In the middle of the arena, Ma Hualong was introducing an unexpected late addition to the panel of judges.
"The Alchemy Association is pleased to welcome a distinguished alumni member as a judge for this crucial round," Ma Hualong announced, his voice carrying over the hushed crowd. "Master Lei Ren!"
I pumped my fist quietly, realizing my ploy had worked. Lei Ren, Tao Ren''s father, would be acting as a judge. Not only to counteract Elder Wei Lian''s bias against Jingyu Lian, but also as an impartial party through and through. This was the break I needed. With him, I wouldn''t have to worry so much about the clan conflicts among the Jian family!
The arena was a hive of activity. Spectators filled the stands, their murmurs and whispers creating a low hum that underscored the tension in the air. The ten remaining contestants took their places at their respective stations, each one equipped with the tools and ingredients we would need.
The stations were arranged in a circle, each facing inward. The only items on the stations at the moment were a brush and paper, waiting for us to begin. Ma Hualong continued his explanation as envelopes were distributed to each contestant.
"You are not to open the envelopes until I say so," he instructed. "You will be given thirty minutes to analyze the recipe inside and create a list of ingredients and tools you require. Once your lists are approved, you will have one hour to create the product. Remember, the top three performers from the previous round can ask me one question each, which I will answer with a simple yes or no."
I glanced at the envelope on my station, the weight of its contents almost palpable. This was an immense opportunity, and I needed to make the most of it.
"Do any of you have questions?" Ma Hualong asked, his gaze sweeping over us. Silence filled the arena, the tension almost suffocating.
Before we began, I took a longer glance at Jingyu Lian. Her body language was tense, her eyes dark and sunken. She gazed at the envelope with an expression that spoke volumes. She seemed to know what was inside, or perhaps feared it.
I couldn''t help but wonder about the insider her father mentioned. How had they managed to ensure she had the answers without being detected? The number of perceptive cultivators and alchemists present made it seem impossible.
He swept a hand over the stations where envelopes awaited. "Inside, you''ll find a fragmented recipe, a relic from a dark time. Centuries ago, demonic cultivators unleashed a plague carried by violet rain. The Amethyst Plague, they called it. By targeting the meridians, it turned skin a sickly purple, brought high fevers, hemorrhaging, dysentery, and inevitably, an agonizing death. No one was spared, cultivator or commoner alike."
A collective gasp rippled through the crowd. It was horrifying to hear, and Ma Hualong''s delivery was on point. He must''ve been a storyteller, or some sort of government official in a past life. Considering how articulate he is, no wonder they have him as the main announcer and coordinator. He had the entire crowd hanging on his every word.
"The greatest alchemists of that era joined forces," The man continued, his voice filled with respect. "They toiled day and night to create a remedy, a way to counteract the rain''s poison. This recipe you hold? It''s a piece of that legacy. A testament to what alchemy can achieve in the face of despair. The basis of most antidotes were formed by this recipe."
"It saved lives. Lives that would shape the future of alchemy itself. Among them," Ma Hualong''s voice rose, carrying through the arena, "a young boy named Zhang Wei. The very same Zhang Wei who, years later, would go on to found the Alchemy Association we all revere today." He gestured to the waiting envelopes. "This round is about more than just creating a product. It''s about honoring the past, about understanding the very foundation of our art. Analyze the recipe, create your ingredient list, and remember ¨C the weight of history rests on your mortar and pestle."
A reverent hush fell over the crowd. Lei Ren seemed to nod in approval at his speech, like a particularly proud father. Now that I think of it, didn''t he mention that Ma Hualong was his student, once upon a time? How old was Tao Ren''s father?
Ma Hualong''s voice cut through my thoughts. "You may now open your envelopes."
This was it ¨C the challenge that would determine my place in the finals.
99. A Recipe in Pieces
"...And you want me to help with this? Why?"
I swallowed, the dryness in my throat making the words stick. Lei Ren, dwarfed by the high-backed chair in his opulent Jade Harmony suite, was a mountain in repose. His reaction to the whispered conspiracy, however, was not the eruption I feared. More like... a mild rumble. He didn''t seem surprised when I spilled the situation to him.
"Because of your influence," I pressed on, my hands clenching and unclenching in my lap. "I''ve seen how the other judges defer to you. Elder Wei Lian''s bias... with you there, it''d be harder for him to sway the results." Replacing Wei Lian was a pipe dream, not worth mentioning.
Lei Ren stroked his beard, snowy white against the silver of his robes. "Hm. If my fool of a son hadn''t washed out, I''d have to refuse on principle. Judging kin... messy business." His sharp eyes flicked to Tao Ren, who beamed back unashamedly.
"What of the girl, then?" Lei Ren continued, his voice a low rasp. "Jingyu Lian. You heard her father gift-wrapping her the answers. Why not expose her now, be done with it?"
My gaze met his, Jingyu Lian''s conflicted voice echoing in my memory. "I... want to give her a chance. To prove her own skill, not her father''s underhandedness. But if she uses the envelope... then yes, exposure is the only fair outcome."
"To clarify, Kai here fancies the girl," Tao Ren piped up, leaning forward with a shit-eating grin. "Doesn''t want to see her disqualified without goo¡ªmmmph!"
I clamped a hand over Tao Ren''s mouth, my cheeks burning. "Apologies, Master Lei Ren," I mumbled, hoping my embarrassment didn''t show too much.
Lei Ren merely waved a dismissive hand. "Puppy love," he grunted, not unkindly. "But not my concern. My concern is... what do I get out of this?"
"Dad, come on! He''s my friend!" Tao Ren protested, wriggling out from under my hand.
"Hush, boy," Lei Ren chided. "Friendship is fine, but business is business."
The question hit me like a bolt of lightning. Of course. Dealing with the Azure Silk Trading Company, the Silent Moon, and even the Verdant Lotus sect... everything in the Jianghu was about give and take. What could I, an alchemist with only potential to his name, offer a man like Lei Ren? My thoughts churned for a moment.
I straightened my spine, a spark igniting in my gut. "I understand, Master Lei Ren. This is a favor, and favors must be repaid." I met his gaze head-on, feeling the weight of it like a physical force. As I spoke, I gathered every bit of bravado I could muster. "Right now, I may not have much to offer. But that''s only now."
I paused, letting the words hang in the air. "I am the holder of the Essence Extraction skill. I am allied with the Verdant Lotus sect. And with the path I walk, I will have the means to repay any debt I incur. Tenfold, if that''s what it takes."
Lei Ren''s eyebrows rose, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "Bold words, young man. But are you sure you want to owe a debt to someone like me? I have a reputation for... extracting my due."
I didn''t flinch. "From what I''ve seen of your son," I replied, a hint of a smile playing on my lips, "I believe you to be a man of honor, Master Lei Ren. And a man of honor keeps his word, just as I intend to keep mine."
For a long moment, Lei Ren was silent. Then, a deep chuckle rumbled from his chest, shaking his whole body. "Audacity," he said, a smile finally cracking his stern facade. "I like it. Very well, Kai Liu. I will help you. But remember..." His voice turned serious. "You owe me. And debts... must be paid."
Relief flooded through me, but I knew this was only the beginning.
The conversation echoed in my mind as I divided my attention between the fragmented recipe in my hand and Master Lei Ren, seated amongst the other judges. He was an unmovable presence, a silent sentinel watching over Jingyu Lian as she delicately broke the seal on the envelope. Would he catch the slightest tremor in her hand, the flicker of her eyes as she glimpsed the forbidden knowledge within?
My gaze drifted to Jingyu Lian. Her face was pale, the porcelain skin stretched taut over high cheekbones. With trembling fingers, she unfolded the paper inside the envelope, her eyes scanning the contents for a heart-stopping moment.
What was she thinking? Would she succumb to temptation, betraying her own pride and skill for a hollow victory?
I left it in her hands. I did what I could.
Jingyu Lian''s eyes flickered towards Elder Wei Lian, who sat in the center of the arena, a smug smirk twisting his lips. A muscle twitched in her jaw, and something sparked within her eyes.
Then, with a deep breath, she opened the envelope, letting all the scattered pieces of the recipe fall before crushing the envelope containing the answers with one hand and tossing it away.
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Ma Hualong¡¯s voice cut through my thoughts. ¡°Kai Liu, it would be wise to focus on the recipe in front of you rather than the other contestants.¡±
I flushed with embarrassment, realizing I had been caught staring. ¡°Sorry,¡± I mumbled, quickly turning my attention back to my station. But I couldn''t help but smile, seeing that happen. I''d be facing Jingyu Lian at her best, and that''s how I wanted it to be.
The brush and paper were still waiting, the partially translated recipe enclosed in the envelope next to them. I took a deep breath, trying to clear my mind and focus. The doubts and worries about her faded, replaced by the anticipation of the task ahead. I could do this. I had to.
I picked up the brush, preparing myself for the challenge. With a steady hand, I opened the envelope and pulled out the paper inside, It was torn to pieces, much like Jingyu Lian''s and the other contestants. I''d need to put them together and get an understanding of how much of the recipe is missing.
The recipe pieces were torn into similarly-sized squares, each one a fragment of the whole. It was like putting together a puzzle. I took a moment to steady my breathing, then got to work. My hands moved swiftly, my focus narrowing to the task before me. Within seconds, I had pieced the fragments together.
The title of the recipe, Violet Bloom Antidote, stood out clearly. But as I scanned the rest of the page, my heart sank. Most of the ingredients were missing, and bits and pieces of the steps were too fragmented to make out clearly. This would be a challenge.
I muttered the title under my breath, trying to commit it to memory. Violet Bloom Antidote. An antidote meant complex interactions, precise measurements, and a thorough understanding of the properties of each ingredient. But with so many pieces missing, I''d need to rely on my intuition and knowledge.
Ma Hualong¡¯s voice resonated in the arena, providing a calming backdrop to the tension. "You have thirty minutes to analyze the recipe and create a list of ingredients and tools you require. Remember, the top three performers from the previous round can ask me one question each, which I will answer with a simple yes or no."
This was my chance. I needed to use my question wisely.
The fragments of the recipe were scattered across my station, each one a clue to the final product. I picked up the brush and started to write down what I knew so far, a way of visualizing and seeing what I''d need.
The known ingredients so far was Wolfsbane and Bloodthorn Seeds. The former, a potent poison, but when processed, turned into a medicine that could combat fevers. The latter ingredient, however, was troubling since the only recipe I knew it was used for was the forbidden Blood-Bursting Pill, which was as dangerous as it sounded.
I wanted to rip my hair out in frustration. This was harder than I thought it''d be!
I glanced over at the steps to create antidote. Filled with broken sentences cleverly taking out the name of the ingredients, they still read out words that would glean some clues onto what the other ingredients potentially were.
"...until it is charred. So there''s two ingredients, both of which need to be charred."
Charred ingredients often meant activated charcoal. I recalled Ma Hualong mentioning this antidote providing a foundation build upon for alchemy. Activated charcoal was a key component, preventing poison from being absorbed from the stomach into the body, used in most antidotes today. Now, I had to figure out which herbs were used in the process to make this activated charcoal.
I needed to focus. I closed my eyes and entered my Memory Palace, where I stored all the herbal knowledge I had accumulated over the years. Ma Hualong had mentioned the symptoms of the Amethyst Plague: purple skin, high fevers, hemorrhaging, and dysentery. I mentally sifted through the myriad of herbs I had archived, searching for ones that could counteract these symptoms.
Rare ingredients were unlikely since the antidote had to be distributed widely. It had to be something common, accessible to all. I honed in on two candidates that fit the bill: lotus rhizomes and skullcaps. Both were known for their detoxifying properties and were common enough to be used in an antidote distributed throughout the province.
With my choices made, I opened my eyes, exiting my Memory Palace. I didn''t have time to hesitate. My instincts and experience as a herbalist would have to guide me.
I picked up my brush and wrote down the ingredients, including the lotus rhizomes and skullcaps as the ones to be charred.
My eyes flitted over to the rest of the competition. Zhi Ruo was deep in thought, muttering quickly under his breath. Jingyu Lian tapped on the table''s surface incessantly. Bai Hua seemed completely at ease, humming to himself as he looked over the recipe with a critiquing eye. I was surprised; of all the contestants, I thought he''d be struggling the most.
Never mind that! I needed to focus. If those two were combined to make activated charcoal, then that left only two ingredients to figure out.
My eyes caught a crucial fragment in the steps that mentioned slicing. This had to be important. The only herb that I could think of was ginseng.
As Elder Zhu said; when in doubt, use ginseng. It is a pretty versatile herb, after all.
Raising my hand, I caught Ma Hualong¡¯s attention. As soon as he walked up to my station, I spoke.
¡°Master Ma, is one of the ingredients ginseng?¡± I asked, my voice steady despite the tension gnawing at me.
He didn''t answer for a brief moment, his brow furrowing slightly. "No," he finally replied.
Confusion washed over me. No? But... Elder Zhu''s advice... the slicing... it all pointed to ginseng! Had I been too hasty? A cold dread trickled down my spine. What if I was wrong about everything? I squeezed my eyes shut, trying to banish the wave of self-doubt. There had to be another herb, another answer.
My mind raced, sifting through my knowledge of herbs. Honeysuckle? No, that was more for tonics. Moonlit Grace Lily? Too rare and difficult to obtain for a widespread antidote. Frustration gnawed at me. The clock was ticking, and I was running out of time.
Then it hit me ¨C dandelion root. Of course! While not as potent as ginseng, it was known to enhance the detoxifying properties of other herbs, making it a valuable addition to any antidote. Plus, it was incredibly common, growing practically everywhere, and the root needed to be carefully sliced to prepare it properly. It fit perfectly within the context of the recipe.
A small smile tugged at my lips. Of course. Sometimes, the simplest solutions were the most effective. The Violet Bloom Antidote wasn''t meant to be a luxurious concoction for the elite; it was a remedy for the masses, and dandelion root was the perfect embodiment of that principle.
As I scanned the remaining fragments of the recipe, I noticed that the final steps were blocked out, preventing me from determining whether the antidote was intended to be a pill or an elixir. Given the historical context, I recalled that elixirs were more common before the convenience of pills became widespread. Elixirs were particularly favored for their ease of consumption, especially by the elderly and young children. If this targeted people in varying stages of the Amethyst Plague, then they''d have consider the mode of delivery for those who were too weak to chew.
With that in mind, I decided to list the final ingredient as distilled water. It made sense¡ªwater was essential in the preparation of an elixir, providing a medium for dissolving and mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
I picked up my brush again and wrote down "distilled water" as the final ingredient. The list was now complete:
Wolfsbane, Bloodthorn Seeds, lotus rhizomes, skullcaps, dandelion root, and distilled water.
Why did I feel like I was missing something? Ma Hualong''s pause when he answered my question. It felt like there was a ''but'' that he wanted to say, but couldn''t.
The ingredients seemed to cover all the symptoms and stages of the Amethyst Plague. The combination of immediate symptom relief, toxin absorption, and blood cleansing made this a comprehensive antidote. Even the Bloodthorn seeds made sense, capable of breaking down blood alongside the poison which reached the bloodstream. It was designed to combat the plague at every level, from the initial infection to the severe, life-threatening stages.
But Ma Hualong''s hesitation still nagged at me. Had I overlooked something crucial?
I glanced at the other contestants. I know they already used their questions as well. Zhi Ruo was furiously scribbling notes, his face a mask of concentration. Jingyu Lian was calm, her eyes focused on her recipe with a determination that matched my own. Bai Hua, as always, appeared serene, though his eyes flicked over his ingredients with meticulous care.
There was no time to second-guess myself. I had to trust in my knowledge and my instincts. The pieces of the recipe were coming together, and now it was time to put them to the test.
Ma Hualong¡¯s voice rang out again, breaking through my thoughts. ¡°Stop! The preparation time has finished. Invigilators will be coming over to note down the ingredients you need. Specify what ingredients you require, and prepare your stations for the next stage of this round!¡±
I cracked my knuckles and sighed.
This was the final stretch. I couldn''t lose focus here!
100. The Color of Mastery
As the invigilators filed into the arena, their arms laden with trays of ingredients, a hush fell over the room. My heart pounded in my chest as I scanned the approaching figures, eager to see the components I''d requested.
Each invigilator stopped at a contestant''s station, carefully placing down the requested ingredients. I noted with some relief that the trays for the other contestants carried similar batches: lotus rhizomes, skullcaps, and some with ginseng. These were the ingredients we all deduced as essential to combat the Amethyst Plague, given the recipe''s fragmented instructions and historical context. But I noticed I was the only one who asked for distilled water, aside from Jingyu Lian.
But then, my eyes landed on an invigilator who was struggling with an unusually large tray. It was piled high with an assortment of ingredients¡ªmany of which didn''t make sense for this specific antidote. Herbs and roots either too exotic or unrelated to the symptoms we were combating. It even included distilled water, the only other competitor to ask for it. My brows furrowed in confusion and curiosity.
There was only one person in this competition I knew who would request such an eclectic mix, and I wasn''t surprised when the invigilator stopped in front of Bai Hua''s station, gently setting down the cumbersome tray.
Bai Hua, the ever-unpredictable perfumer, glanced up with a satisfied smile, thanking the invigilator with a nod. I couldn''t help but shake my head, a wry smile tugging at my lips. It was in character of him. Always marching to the beat of his own drum. While the rest of us were focused on the straightforward path, he was off exploring uncharted territory. Though, I''m not sure how well it''d be rewarded this round.
My own ingredients had arrived, neatly arranged in front of me. Wolfsbane, Bloodthorn Seeds, dandelion root, lotus rhizomes, skullcaps, and distilled water. I took a deep breath, my mind sharpening with determination. There was no room for error; I had to follow the recipe as closely as possible while improvising where necessary.
"I should start with this..."
The clock was ticking, and I knew that every second counted. The urgency of a real plague scenario was simulated here, and every moment spent fumbling could mean another life lost. I began with the charring process, carefully controlling the heat to ensure the lotus rhizomes and skullcaps reached the perfect consistency for activated charcoal.
As the herbs charred, I moved to the next step, soaking the wolfsbane in water. The pill furnace roared to life, boiling the wolfsbane as I taste-tested it to ensure the toxins were fully neutralized. The bitterness gradually faded, a sign that the poison was being effectively removed. Although this round was difficult, it still dealt with herbs. I was in my element.
Multitasking was essential. While keeping an eye on the boiling wolfsbane, I checked the charred herbs, ensuring they didn¡¯t burn. The process of charring was rather unscientific, and I used the provided stove to thoroughly char them, turning them every so often. The steady rhythm of my tasks was almost hypnotic, each step flowing seamlessly into the next.
I couldn''t afford to rush. Each step had to be executed with care and accuracy. The wolfsbane was finally ready, and I carefully drained it, setting it aside. The pill furnace needed to be cleaned thoroughly before I could proceed with the next crucial ingredient: the Bloodthorn Seeds.
This was the most challenging task yet. The seeds were volatile, their properties teetering on the edge of medicine and poison. But then again, so was most of the ingredients here.
I only began handling Bloodthorn Seeds after joining the Verdant Lotus sect. What did I need Bloodthorn Seeds for when I was only dealing with common, everyday ailments as the village herbalist?
Processing them correctly was critical; one misstep could turn the antidote into a lethal concoction. The recipe didn¡¯t specify how to prepare them, only mentioning their incorporation into the final product. But that was no problem. I stretched my arms and wrist, loosening myself up before taking on the task.
I looked underneath the alchemical station for the proper tool. With a swift movement, I grabbed the quartz mortar and pestle and began crushing them. It would neutralize some of its effects. The seeds broke down into a fine powder under the steady pressure, their volatile properties subdued but still potent.
I let the crushed seeds soak in distilled water, carefully monitoring the process to ensure they dissolved properly. While the seeds soaked, I turned my attention back to the steaming process for the charcoal. It was time to turn up the heat on the stove, allowing the steam to dehydrate them back into a fine powder and completing the process.
As the steam rose and the herbs dried, I could feel the intensity of the competition around me. The charcoal was ready, a deep, dark hue that promised potency. I set it aside, making sure it was finely ground and ready for the next step.
Next, I began combining the prepared ingredients. Once it was ready, I heated it, preparing for the final and most delicate stage of the antidote.
I added the charred lotus rhizomes and skullcaps to the pill furnace, integrating them slowly to avoid clumping. The mixture took on a rich, inky shade, the colors blending perfectly as planned. The activated charcoal combined with the Bloodthorn Seeds created a strong base, capable of absorbing toxins and purifying the blood.
All around me, the other contestants were reaching a critical stage in their recipes. Everyone seemed to have similar ingredients, except for Bai Hua, who was doing...something entirely different. I couldn''t afford to be distracted. I refocused on the task at hand, knowing that the final steps required my utmost attention.
The wolfsbane, now free of toxins, was ready to be incorporated. I added it to the mixture in the pill furnace, carefully blending it with the other ingredients. The dandelion root followed, sliced thin and precise, adding its immune-boosting properties to the antidote. The distilled water came last, binding the ingredients into a smooth, consistent elixir.
With the final ingredients added, I watched the mixture closely. The color deepened, a rich, dark hue that signified the potency of the antidote.
Now, I just had to wait.
An underrated skill any and all alchemists should hone was having a solid internal clock. Not only did it help with precise timing for delicate recipes, it made waking up early in the morning a breeze. Without any markers or indicators, this made the difference between a mediocre alchemist and a great one.
After several minutes, I opened the pill furnace to reveal the steaming liquid within.
I peered into the pill furnace. The mixture had a deep, dark hue, but something felt off. I referenced the recipe and the step I was supposed to be on, where it described the mixture taking on a deep, murky violet color. Instead, what I had was a darker brown with a purple tone. I stirred the mixture, ensuring there were no clumps that hadn''t integrated fully with the elixir, but there was none.
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Panic welled up in my chest. I must have messed up one of the ingredients, but I didn''t have time to pinpoint the exact mistake.
"Thirty minutes left!"
I knew it was too late to change anything.
I forced myself to stay calm, convincing myself that the recipe might still work.
Even if I wasn''t perfectly accurate, it was enough on its own. I couldn''t add anymore ingredients. I just had to forge through and make sure I was perfect everywhere else.
I took a deep breath, focusing on the next crucial step: the filtration process. I placed a coarse filter over the container, ready to strain out the larger particles. Carefully, I poured the mixture through, watching as it flowed steadily, leaving behind the unwanted debris. The liquid that emerged was clearer but still far from perfect.
Next, I grabbed a piece of fine cloth, folding it over several times to create a dense filter for the finer particulates. The process was painstakingly slow, but essential for the purity of the antidote.
I couldn¡¯t help but think how much easier this would be with Essence Extraction. When collecting the essence of an ingredient, it didn''t come with impurities. But that was off-limits here. Accuracy and adherence to traditional methods were the rules of this round. No shortcuts, no advanced techniques. Just skill and precision.
With the final minutes ticking away, I carefully poured the finished elixir into a small vial, sealing it tightly. I examined my finished product: a clear liquid, free of impurities but dark blue rather than the intended violet.
"Contestants, step forward and place your antidotes, as well as your recipe, on the table." Ma Hualong''s authoritative voice echoed through the arena. We obeyed, and everyone placed their products on the table. Seven of them were pills, and three were in vials. As we proceeded to stand in a line, the judges came forward to analyze our works with a critical eye.
Lei Ren, Wei Lian, and Elder Mingmei walked around the table, reading out the interpreted recipes and picking up the individual products and discussing amongst themselves. But soon, all the judges started converging on one side of the table.
"Bai Hua, this recipe of yours is quite...different. May I ask about your thought process?" Elder Wei Lian said, analyzing the vial in his hand.
The perfumer stepped forward with a flourish, bowing his head in respect. "I confess, I am not a scholar of ancient recipes. The past, while fascinating, holds little interest for me. I prefer to forge my own path, to explore the uncharted territories of alchemy. Which is why I took some...liberties when interpreting the recipe."
Elder Mingmei''s eyes narrowed, her voice sharp and unyielding. "You are quite arrogant in thinking you can do better than the ancient recipe when you have so much to learn. Alchemy is not merely about creativity; it is about understanding and respecting the wisdom of those who came before us."
Bai Hua, undeterred by the stern rebuke, met her gaze with calm defiance. "Elder Mingmei, I mean no disrespect to the ancients. I respect your adherence to tradition, but must we be forever bound by the past? Tradition is the foundation, but innovation is the fragrance that captivates the senses. Don''t you agree?"
The crowd murmured in response, and a mix of curiosity and skepticism rippled through the audience. Some seemed swayed by Bai Hua''s confidence, while others were clearly aligned with Elder Mingmei''s more conservative view.
Bai Hua continued to speak, explaining his chosen ingredients to the judges. Blooming Wisteria, Good Morning Roses...all non-traditional ingredients. But it was ingenious in its own way.
His voice filled with conviction. "By utilizing the properties of Blooming Wisteria and Good Morning Roses, I created a diffusion method that allows the antidote''s effects to spread over a wide area. This makes it much more practical for treating large groups of people quickly, especially in an outbreak scenario where time is of the essence."
Despite sounding good in practice, Lei Ren was not easily swayed. "While the method of application is innovative," he said, his tone measured, "the antidote itself is lacking when it comes to dealing with the effects of the Amethyst Plague. While useful in other contexts, Blooming Wisteria and Good Morning Roses lack the potency needed to combat the Amethyst Plague."
Lei Ren''s words cut through the crowd, causing a stir. "You may disregard the knowledge and history of alchemy," he continued, his gaze firm on Bai Hua, "but it is not a playground for whimsical experimentation. It is a discipline rooted in centuries of knowledge and tradition. While innovation is important, it must not come at the expense of foundational principles."
The judges all nodded in response.
Bai Hua''s confident facade faltered for a moment, humbled by Lei Ren''s critique. "I understand, Master Lei Ren," he said, bowing his head.
He slipped back into line, and the other judges began to take notice of the product beside Bai Hua''s. Mine.
"Kai Liu...could you explain your reason as to why you used distilled water in your recipe?"
I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. "Yes, Elder Wei Lian," I began, "I used distilled water because, historically, elixirs were more commonly used than pill forms. An elixir is easier to consume, especially for the elderly, babies, and those too weak to chew a pill. It ensures that the antidote can be administered quickly and effectively to those who need it the most."
The judges nodded approvingly, their expressions thoughtful. I felt a small surge of confidence, but it was short-lived.
Lei Ren''s voice cut through the silence. "Kai Liu, your reasoning for using an elixir is sound. However, I must ask about the elixir''s color. The name ''Violet Bloom Antidote'' implies a specific coloration, yet your elixir is dark blue. Why is that?"
I swallowed hard, trying to formulate my response carefully. "I believe it is likely due to an incorrect ingredient choice," I admitted. "I followed the recipe as best as I could interpret it, but I must have chosen a substitute that affected the final color."
Lei Ren nodded, his expression serious. "Can you pinpoint where in the recipe you went wrong?"
I shook my head slowly, feeling the weight of my own uncertainty. "No, Master Lei Ren. I cannot say for certain where I made the mistake."
There was a moment of silence, the air thick with anticipation. Lei Ren''s eyes bore into mine, searching for any hint of understanding. Finally, he spoke again, his tone both instructive and challenging.
"Kai Liu, alchemy is as much about precision as it is about intuition. Your work shows promise, but there is a crucial lesson here. The Bloodthorn Seeds, while essential, are highly volatile. Their correct preparation is critical. Their properties, while breaking down the toxin in the bloodstream, also risk leaving the patient severely weakened due to blood loss. Your antidote is effective in curing the Amethyst Plague, but it lacks an element to support blood regeneration after the seeds have run their course."
The realization hit me like a bolt of lightning. Of course! How could I have forgotten that?
"But the rest of the work shows promise," Elder Wei Lian interjected smoothly. "The rest of the ingredients were sound, made with care and precision. Your elixir, though not perfect, demonstrates a strong affinity towards herbs and an understanding of their properties. Your decision to use an elixir form is commendable and shows your consideration for those who might have difficulty consuming a pill."
The compliments felt hollow, knowing that I had missed a crucial aspect of the antidote. I glanced at Elder Wei Lian, aware that his praise might have ulterior motives, possibly using me to undermine Jingyu Lian. This awareness dulled the satisfaction of his words, but I accepted them with a polite bow.
"Thank you, Elder Wei Lian," I said, keeping my tone respectful.
I stepped back as the rest of the products were judged. None of them had the same reaction as mine or Bai Hua''s. The judges'' reactions were measured, their critiques thorough but fair. Zhi Ruo''s got a lukewarm reception, with the only comment being the pill''s lack of purity. It wasn''t until they reached the last remaining product, where they had a notable reaction. In a vial, and unlike my own, it boasted a bright purple hue.
"Jingyu Lian, among the contestants so far, yours is the only one to fit the recipe''s name in its entirety. Do you know why?"
She nodded, stepping forward with her eyes raised.
"When female ginseng is used in combination with the processed wolfsbane, it will cause a reaction that amplifies each ingredient''s effects, turning the mixture into a violet hue," She explained confidently. "The female ginseng enhances the restorative properties of the wolfsbane while also acting as a stabilizer for the volatile Bloodthorn Seeds."
The pieces suddenly clicked into place. Of course! Everything made sense now. Ma Hualong''s hesitation, and my crucial mistake...
The judges exchanged glances, their faces clearly showing approval and surprise. Elder Wei Lian, seizing the opportunity to criticize, leaned forward with a scrutinizing expression. "Your mixture may have the correct color and impressive synergy, but there are several aspects of your recipe that raise concerns. For instance, the female ginseng''s interaction with wolfsbane might intensify the antidote''s potency, but it also increases the risk of adverse effects if not precisely measured."
He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "Furthermore, your choice to use dried female ginseng instead of fresh may have compromised the overall efficacy of the antidote. Dried herbs lose some of their essential oils and active compounds, reducing their medicinal strength."
Jingyu Lian maintained her composure, though her eyes flickered with a hint of frustration. "The dried form was sufficient. A true alchemist adapts to the resources at hand."
Lei Ren intervened with a calm and authoritative tone. "Despite Elder Wei Lian''s valid points, it is evident that you possess a well-rounded understanding of alchemy, Jingyu Lian. Your ability to balance the interactions between the ingredients and achieve the intended color demonstrates your skill. However, alchemy requires not only knowledge but also adaptability and precision."
He turned to address all the contestants. "This competition is not just about following a recipe; it is about understanding the principles behind each ingredient and anticipating their effects. Innovation and tradition must coexist harmoniously. Jingyu Lian, your antidote is impressive, but remember that even a slight miscalculation can have significant consequences."
I stood there, watching her as she returned back to the line with her head held high. If I had to guess, she had the best one yet. I reflected on my performance, and I bit my lip, knowing that it was closer to the original recipe than most, seeing how the elders judged our products. The judges'' deliberations continued, their discussions growing more animated as they compared the various antidotes. I could see Elder Wei Lian point between my and Jingyu Lian''s product. Lei Ren seemed unfazed, crossing his arms and talking quietly.
The minutes felt like hours, as they concluded their judgements. Ma Hualong came forward, looking off into the distance and inclining his head towards someone from the entrance. Two invigilators rushed out, carrying an item covered in fine, purple silk. Once they arrived at the center, the man spoke in a booming voice.
"In this round of the Gauntlet, the judges have evaluated each antidote based on its adherence to the recipe, its effectiveness, and the alchemical skill demonstrated. The contestant who has shown the most promise and has crafted the most effective antidote is..."
101. A Recipe for Retribution
"Jingyu Lian!"
A raucous round of applause resounded throughout the arena. She closed her eyes, almost sagging in relief.
I clapped along politely, biting down on the rush of disappointment and the slightest hint of regret.
But between the regret of losing honorably and winning disgracefully, I knew I''d choose the former a hundred times over.
Well, maybe ninety-nine times. Sometimes I got tempted by the easy way out.
Ma Hualong promptly removed the silk covering the mystery item, revealing what was hidden underneath.
A thin, glass vial containing an intense violet color.
"Behold," Ma Hualong announced, "the original Violet Bloom Antidote."
The crowd murmured in awe as the vibrant hue shimmered under the arena lights.
"This antidote," Ma Hualong continued, "is made of wolfsbane, bloodthorn seeds, activated charcoal made from lotus rhizomes and skullcap, distilled water, and one final key ingredient."
My heart quickened. Wolfsbane, bloodthorn seeds, activated charcoal¡ªthese were all key ingredients that I had guessed correctly. It strengthened my case for making it to the final round.
But I knew Jingyu Lian was correct. The final ingredient. It was...
"The last ingredient is angelica root, otherwise known as female ginseng."
A collective gasp rose from the audience. I cursed silently, realizing my mistake. I had been peripherally aware of angelica root, but more familiar with its other name as female ginseng. That explained why Ma Hualong had paused when I asked my question on whether or not ginseng was included in the recipe.
"Jingyu Lian," Ma Hualong said, turning towards her with a respectful nod, "you were the only contestant to correctly identify the final ingredient. Could you explain how you came to this conclusion?"
Jingyu stepped forward, the picture of serene confidence. "Angelica root, or female ginseng, is often overlooked due to its misleading name," she explained smoothly. "While unrelated to ginseng, it''s equally valuable, particularly in women''s health for centuries. As a powerful blood tonic, it enhances the efficacy of wolfsbane, a key component of the antidote." She paused, her gaze sweeping over the judges. "Through extensive research and a fortunate familiarity with women''s health practices, I was able to deduce its inclusion in this formula."
Humility laced her tone, yet there was an underlying edge, a reminder that she was not just knowledgeable, but confident in her abilities.
The judges nodded approvingly, impressed by her depth of knowledge and the grace with which she handled her victory. Elder Wei Lian clapped along politely, but his smile didn''t reach his eyes.
I couldn''t help but notice Jingyu Lian''s reaction was subdued despite her triumph. She kept glancing at the latest addition amongst the judges, her gaze lingering with an indescribable emotion. Was it... suspicion?
Lei Ren, maintaining his stoic demeanor, finally spoke. "Jingyu Lian, your understanding of the ingredients and their interactions is commendable. Your ability to draw connections from your research to this ancient recipe demonstrates both skill and insight. Alchemy is not just about knowledge but also about precision and adaptability. You have shown both today."
Jingyu Lian bowed slightly, acknowledging Lei Ren''s words. "...Thank you, Master Lei Ren. I will strive to continue learning and refining my skills."
The judges continued their deliberations, and the tension in the arena was palpable. Ma Hualong stepped forward again, his expression serious. "The contestants who have qualified for the final round, based on their skill, knowledge, and the effectiveness of their antidotes, are as follows."
He paused, letting the suspense build. "Second place goes to Kai Liu."
I smiled as I stepped forward. I was only one ingredient short, but I had made it. The applause felt like a validation of my efforts.
Third and fourth place went to Tian Zhu and Fang Xiang, perennial high-performers since the first round. I eyed them, seeing their elation upon qualifying. The remaining contestants fidgeted, looking amongst each other for who would be selected. Bai Hua seemed resigned, closing his eyes with a sad smile on his face.
The final spot hung in the balance. Ma Hualong finally announced, "The fifth and last spot goes to... Zhi Ruo."
The librarian''s eyes widened in surprise, and he let out a breath he had been holding. He stepped forward, bowing deeply to the judges.
Bai Hua, who stood just outside the qualified group, took his elimination with grace. He approached both me and Zhi Ruo, shaking our hands warmly. "Congratulations to both of you," he said sincerely. "I wish you the best of luck in the final round. I''ll be watching in the stands with Tao Ren, I suppose."
He glanced over in the crowd. A certain loud-mouthed blacksmith was whooping and hollering from the stands.
"Thank you, Bai Hua," I replied, shaking his hand firmly. "I''ll win for you!"
Zhi Ruo added, "Yes, best of luck to you in your future endeavors."
Regardless of his loss, he certainly made his mark on the audience. The Summer Sun Cosmetics made their debut with a resounding impact here in the Gauntlet. Perhaps I could ask Bai Hua for a discount? I think everyone from back home would enjoy what he had to offer.
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Ma Hualong addressed the qualified contestants once more. "You have all shown great promise and skill to reach this stage. However, the final round will be the most challenging yet. It will take place in three days, not only to give us time to prepare the Marble Jade Arena but also to ensure you are ready for what lies ahead."
He paused, his gaze intense. "Do not take these three days as an opportunity to relax. The final round will test you in ways you have not yet imagined. It will be both dangerous and intense. Prepare yourselves accordingly."
The warning sent a shiver down my spine, filling me with a mixture of nervousness and excitement. What could the final round possibly entail? I was dying to know!
Maybe I should eavesdrop on Jingyu Lian and her father again...Ha!
As we were dismissed, I couldn''t help but ponder the upcoming challenge. I knew I had to make the most of these three days, studying and refining my skills to ensure I was ready for whatever the final round would demand.
I summoned the Heavenly Interface to look at the progress on my most recent quest.
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Quest: Mind Refinement (Breakthrough)
- Revise one-hundred alchemical recipes and improve upon the processes within your Memory Palace. (36/100)
|
I needed to complete this over the next few days. But revising alchemical recipes and improving them was difficult; most of them were already refined to their utmost limit. And even if they weren''t, I wasn''t at the level where I could spot the areas they could be improved.
But if there was a place where I could learn more recipes, as well as methods to improve them, there was only one in Crescent Bay City.
"Zhi Ruo, would you mind if I used that favour from the first round now?"
Gu Bei, a proud disciple of Narrow Stone Peak, stumbled through the maze-like alleys of Crescent Bay City. The city''s labyrinthine layout, with its sudden turns and shadowed recesses, would have been disorienting even for a sober mind. But the trained cultivator was anything but sober.
"Blasted city!" Gu Bei cursed, nearly tripping over a loose cobblestone. "Can''t even walk straight in this maze!" He hiccuped, a sour smell of cheap wine wafting from his breath.
The alcohol had dulled his senses, making him easy prey for the shadows that seemed to dance around every corner. The din of the night was filled with the chirping of crickets, but Gu Bei could swear he heard the faintest sound of wings flapping, a barely perceptible hiss cutting through the darkness.
"G-Get away from me!" Gu Bei hissed, his eyes widening in fear. "Do you know who I am?!"
The paranoia was thick in the air, fueled by both the alcohol and what happened to the rest of the Five Fists.
He hunched over a wall, taking a few seconds to catch his breath. His eyes darted around the narrow alley, struggling to grasp what had just happened.
"What''s going on?" he whispered to himself, his voice barely audible over the pounding of his heart. "Who¡¯s doing this to me?"
Just then, a streak of light plummeted from the sky, landing squarely on Gu Bei''s shoulder. An oil lantern shattered, showering him in hot oil and igniting his robes.
"AIIIIIEEE!" Gu Bei shrieked, flailing wildly. He ripped off his burning clothes, the flames licking at his skin as he rolled on the ground in a desperate attempt to extinguish them.
Gu Bei recoiled from the sudden heat, a strangled cry escaping his lips. The lantern''s oil clung to his robes, turning them into a fiery shroud. Panic seized him as he clawed at the fabric, each tug met with the agonizing sting of burning flesh. He thrashed in the alley, his movements wild and uncoordinated, the flames casting grotesque shadows on the brick walls.
As he tumbled through the dirt, the sound of his own frantic breathing filled his ears. He finally managed to snuff out the fire, but not before singeing his hair and leaving angry red welts on his skin. Naked and humiliated, Gu Bei staggered to his feet, his eyes darting around the narrow alley. He clutched at the air, his mind struggling to grasp what had just happened.
He could hear the faint flapping of wings and the soft hiss again, making his paranoia spike. The alley opened into a crowded street, and as Gu Bei stumbled out, gasping and naked, the city folk erupted in laughter. Pointing fingers and mocking jeers surrounded him.
"Look at the drunkard!" someone shouted.
"Lost your clothes in a bet?" another mocked.
Gu Bei tried to cover himself with his hands, his face burning with shame. Just as he thought things couldn¡¯t get worse, a pair of city guards pushed their way through the crowd.
"Public indecency! You¡¯re under arrest!" one guard barked, grabbing Gu Bei roughly by the arm.
"No! You don¡¯t understand! I was being chased by...by spirits!" Gu Bei howled, struggling against the guards¡¯ grip. But his protests fell on deaf ears as they dragged him away.
High above, in the shadows of a rooftop, Tianyi and Windy watched the spectacle unfold. Tianyi¡¯s blue wings shimmered faintly in the moonlight as she communicated her satisfaction through a wave of triumphant feelings to Windy. The young Wind Serpent, with his pure-white scales glistening, flicked his tail in approval.
The scene quickly devolved into chaos. Gu Bei, now completely naked, stumbled into a crowded street, his panicked cries echoing off the buildings. Onlookers roared with laughter, pointing and jeering at the spectacle of a drunken, naked cultivator.
Scattered throughout the labrynthine streets of Crescent Bay City, the rest of the Five Fists shared similar fates. The first lay unconscious in an alley, a pile of heavy roof tiles scattered around him ¨C a clear sign of an "accidental" fall. Further on, the second disciple was found missing several teeth, trampled by a pair of spooked horses that were now running amok through the streets. A few blocks away, the third and fourth disciples lay buried under a pile of debris and rotting fruit, having crashed into a food stall and a cart full of miscellaneous goods.
Meanwhile, hidden in the shadows, Windy and Tianyi observed the unfolding chaos with a shared sense of satisfaction. It was their doing, of course. A well-placed strike from Windy had caused the scaffolding of the food stall to collapse, a well-timed gust of wind from Tianyi''s wings to dislodge roof tiles, and then ¨C instant karma.
The area looked like the aftermath of a drunken rampage, a perfect cover for the chaos Tianyi and Windy had orchestrated. To the casual observer, it seemed like a group of inebriated cultivators had caused havoc, their actions resulting in a series of unfortunate accidents.
Windy raised his head and flicked his tongue into the air, navigating the city with grace and speed, followed by Tianyi from high above. This plan was only possible with the serpent''s tracking skills, having an innate ability to find prey he''s bitten. Eventually, they made their way back to the first disciple, groaning in a drunken stupor and hanging on to his last thread of consciousness on an empty street.
The serpent crawled over to the man''s shaved head, coiling itself around his neck with instinctual precision. Disoriented and barely coherent, he felt the cold scales tightening around his throat. The disciple''s eyes widened in terror as he struggled weakly, the grip slowly suffocating him and turning his face an alarming shade of blue.
Before Windy could tighten further, Tianyi flitted down and placed herself on the serpent''s snout. She sent a wave of caution and restraint through their telepathic bond. The message was clear.
''It''s enough. Let''s go.''
Windy, ever the predator, narrowed his eyes in challenge. He could understand the intent, but something primal in him rebelled. Why leave them alive? Why not finish the job? This human was weak, pathetic. An easy kill.
Tianyi sensed his reluctance, a flicker of frustration passing between them. A struggle to pass on what she knew of the immortals. She fluttered in front of his snout, sending a telepathic message of assurance.
''Trust me.''
Windy''s eyes flickered to the figure beneath him. He could sense the man''s fear, the desperation in his shallow breaths.
A single thought passed through the serpent''s mind.
''Why do I obey?''
He knew what he was. A snake. A predator.
He knew what he was. A snake. A predator. The natural order dictated that the strong devour the weak, that those who could not defend themselves were nothing more than prey. So why was he here, compliant, obeying a creature smaller and seemingly weaker than himself?
Memories came unbidden, flashing through his young mind like lightning. He remembered the first time he had seen Tianyi''s power despite her small stature, rending scars on trees with her wings. It was she who had orchestrated and directed this intricate plan to avenge Kai, guiding him with a precision and foresight that defied her size and appearance.
Tianyi''s insistence pushed through again, stronger this time. It resonated with a power that Windy couldn''t deny, the pure, untainted energy of a being older and wiser than him. Reluctantly, he uncoiled himself, slithering away from the man''s neck. A hiss of warning was his final act of defiance.
The butterfly fluttered ahead, leading the way back to their inn. Windy followed, a sense of unease lingering in his scales. He had conceded this time, but the question remained. Why show mercy to those who would harm them? He would wait, observe, learn. For now, he would trust Tianyi''s judgment, but the predator in him was far from satisfied.
As the pair moved swiftly through the shadowed alleys of Crescent Bay City, The butterfly''s sharp senses picked up a familiar figure approaching the inn. With a telepathic nudge, she urged Windy to increase his pace. The Wind Serpent, ever agile, scaled the inn''s walls with ease, his body hugging the grooves and crevices.
In one fluid motion, the serpent flung open the window, allowing both of them to slip inside. Just as they did, Feng Wu walked in, his presence calm and composed.
"I''ve brought you some food," Feng Wu said, his tone gentle. He poured Tianyi a bowl of sugar and honey water, his face apologetic. "I can''t be seen purchasing alcohol as a Taoist, but I hope this will suffice."
Tianyi fluttered her wings appreciatively, the faint shimmer in her gossamer wings conveying her thanks. Windy, meanwhile, was presented with a bunch of rats, which he eagerly began to consume.
As the two spirit beasts dove into their respective meals, Feng Wu glanced around the room, his eyes landing on the open window.
"Huh. I guess I must''ve left it open."
102. Study Buddies
As the towering trees of my mind''s library shimmered, a wave of exhaustion washed over me as I emerged from my Memory Palace, my eyes blinking open to the soft glow of sunlight peeking through the windows of the Million Books Pavilion. I glanced over to check at the progress of my quest.
|
Quest: Mind Refinement (Breakthrough)
- Revise one-hundred alchemical recipes and improve upon the processes within your Memory Palace. (55/100)
|
Not bad for one night''s work, I suppose.
Rubbing my temples, I stretched my stiff limbs and surveyed the scene around me. Dozens of open books lay scattered across the table, their pages filled with intricate recipes and alchemical diagrams. The air filled with the scent of aged parchment and ink.
Across from me, Zhi Ruo remained hunched over his own mountain of books, his expression a mask of serene focus. He hadn''t even blinked, it seemed, since I''d last looked up. A wry smile tugged at my lips as I watched him methodically turn the pages, his fingers tracing the characters with the delicate precision of a seasoned scholar.
The stack of books beside him had grown exponentially. In the time I''d spent within my Memory Palace, it seemed Zhi Ruo had traversed entire libraries. I couldn''t help but feel a pang of admiration for his unwavering diligence. The man was a walking encyclopedia.
But something else struck me ¨C the sheer speed at which he was consuming the information. It was like watching a whirlwind devour a scroll, each page a mere blur in his hands. He paused, tapping a finger against his temple as if committing a particularly elusive passage to memory, then resumed his relentless pace.
A thought sparked in my mind, a connection between his rapid reading and my own. Could it be...?
"Zhi Ruo," I said, my voice a bit hoarse from disuse. I glanced over at my cup of tea that had gone cold long ago, and drank it to soothe my parched throat.
He startled, his head snapping up from the book. A lock of his unkempt hair fell across his forehead, partially obscuring his baggy eyes, evidence of the late-night cram session we''d both embarked upon.
"Ah, Kai," he replied, his voice raspy and a little bewildered. "Finished your meditation already?"
"Something like that," I chuckled, gesturing towards the mess of books around us. "Do you often pull all-nighters like this?"
He shook his head, a rueful smile touching his lips. "Only when I have to. My wife wouldn''t be too happy if I spent all my time holed up in here."
"I can imagine," I said, nodding in sympathy. "But you seem to be making good progress."
A spark of pride flickered in his eyes. "I''m trying my best. This competition is no joke. The only reason I can keep up with the likes of you and the others is because I''ve been doing this."
He was right; comparing Zhi Ruo of the first round to the one who made the finals was like night and day. He was growing in real-time, as his skills grew to match his well of knowledge.
"Indeed," I agreed. Then, taking a deep breath, I decided to broach the subject that had piqued my curiosity. "Zhi Ruo, do you have a skill called Accelerated Reading?"
He froze, his eyes widening slightly. The air crackled with a sudden tension. "What... what makes you ask that?"
I leaned forward, my voice barely above a whisper. "Because no one could possibly read this many books in such a short time without it. And well... I have it too."
A long moment of silence passed. The only sound was the rustling of pages as Zhi Ruo slowly closed the book he was holding. He met my gaze, his eyes narrowed in contemplation.
"Kai," he finally said, his voice low and measured, "why would you think I possess such a skill? It''s not exactly common knowledge."
"It''s not common knowledge," I agreed, "but it makes perfect sense for someone like you, a librarian of the Million Books Pavilion. And besides," I added with a sly grin, "I''m pretty good at recognizing my own kind."
His lips twitched into a reluctant smile. "I see. Well, I suppose there''s no point in denying it. Yes, Kai, I have Accelerated Reading."
"Don''t worry, your secret''s safe with me," I assured him. "I wouldn''t want everyone knowing about my little shortcuts either."
I couldn''t help but ponder his revelation. Zhi Ruo, a librarian with a hidden talent for Accelerated Reading... it made a strange sort of sense. But why would someone with such a gift choose to participate in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet? It wasn''t exactly a common path for a bookworm.
Leaning forward with genuine curiosity, I asked him a question. "If you don''t mind me asking, what prompted you to enter the Gauntlet? Was it the fame? The recognition? The opportunity to showcase your alchemical prowess?"
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He shook his head, his smile tinged with wistfulness. "Nothing so grand, I''m afraid. It''s simply... I want to provide a better life for my family."
My eyebrows rose in surprise. "Your family?"
"Yes," he replied, his gaze fixed on the worn pages of a book he had picked up. "My wife and children. They deserve more than the meager living I can provide as a librarian. The Gauntlet, with its potential rewards and recognition, offered a chance to change that."
"But surely there are other ways to earn money," I pointed out. "With your skill and knowledge..."
He chuckled dryly. "Not as quickly or as reliably as this, Kai. Alchemy is a lucrative profession, and the Gauntlet provides unparalleled exposure. Besides," he added, a glimmer of determination in his eyes, "I''ve already received offers from a few prominent clans to come under their wing and practice alchemy."
I was taken aback. "That''s incredible, Zhi Ruo! Congratulations."
"Thank you," he said, a hint of pride coloring his voice. "It would mean safety, security, and a future for my children. Generational wealth, even." His tone turned somber. "But I know, realistically, I won''t win against the likes of you and Jingyu Lian. However, a strong showing in this Gauntlet will give me leverage to negotiate even better offers."
His words resonated with a quiet resolve. He wasn''t here for glory or fame; he was fighting for the future of his family. It was a motivation I could understand and respect.
A comfortable silence settled between us. Then, Zhi Ruo looked up, his eyes meeting mine with a newfound intensity.
"And you, Kai?" he asked. "What are your plans? With your talent, you''ll have plenty of eyes on you, win or lose. Have you considered what you''ll do with the attention?"
I hesitated, caught off guard by his directness. "I... I haven''t thought that far ahead," I admitted. "My main goal is to repay the Verdant Lotus sect for their kindness and guidance. Another thing I had in mind was expanding my shop back home. How does Kai''s Emporium sound?"
Zhi Ruo nodded thoughtfully, and he stifled a giggle at the thought of my Emporium. How rude!
"A noble goal," he said. "But life is rarely so simple, Kai. You''re young, and you have a unique talent, a gift that could open doors you never imagined. Don''t dismiss the opportunities that come your way."
He paused, his gaze unwavering. "If I were you, I''d seriously consider any offers from the Alchemy Association. With your performance here, you could very well end up serving directly under the elders, just as Ma Hualong did when he won the Gauntlet."
i stayed quiet for a moment. The idea of joining the Alchemy Association, growing under their tutelage... It would be a life-changer. I''d be set for life!
"...Well, regardless of what happens," I got up, dusting my maroon robes off as I did so. "I know we''ll put up our best effort. Do you mind if I come back this evening to study again? Same time?"
"You know where to find me, Kai."
I bade him farewell, carefully putting all the books I read back in their place.
Opening the double-doors leading out of the pavilion, I was greeted with the crisp morning air, a refreshing change from the stuffy library. The sun, though still low in the sky, cast a golden glow over the city, its light reflecting off the frost that had formed overnight. A shiver ran down my spine, reminding me of the winter chill.
Despite the early hour, the streets were already bustling with activity. Merchants were setting up their stalls, hawkers were crying out their wares, and cultivators of all stripes were going about their daily business. As I made my way through the crowds, I couldn''t help but overhear snippets of conversation.
"...crazy night, it was," a woman muttered to her companion, shaking her head in disbelief. "A bunch of cultivators, drunk as skunks, tearing up the streets."
"I heard one of them got kicked in the face by Old Man Wowang''s horses," a nearby man chimed in, chuckling. "Lost a few teeth, he did. Serves him right for being such a rowdy drunkard."
Another voice joined the chorus. "Cultivator or not, there''s no training to strengthen your teeth against a horse''s hoof..."
I stifled a laugh as I moved on, the image of a toothless cultivator flashing through my mind. The events of the previous night, while concerning, seemed to have provided the city''s gossipmongers with ample fodder for amusement.
As I walked, I noticed several areas where the streets were damaged ¨C overturned carts, broken stalls, and scattered debris. It seemed the drunken rampage had been quite extensive. I shook my head, wondering what could have possessed a group of cultivators to behave in such a reckless manner.
Eventually, I made it back to the Jade Harmony Inn, my mind still buzzing with the events of the morning. The warm, inviting atmosphere of the inn was a welcome contrast to the cold, bustling streets. I knocked on the door leading to my room, and I heard a muffled voice from the other side.
It swung open to reveal Feng Wu, grinning at me.
"Well? How was your time at the Million Books Pavilion?"
"Excellent," I replied, returning Feng Wu''s grin. "Zhi Ruo''s an excellent study partner, though he sure can read through books fast." I paused. "Speaking of partners, how are Tianyi and Windy?"
I poked my head in to see Tianyi, who was perched delicately on the windowsill, her wings shimmering in the sunlight. Windy, coiled comfortably on a cushion, raised his head in greeting, his forked tongue flickering in and out.
"They seem to have settled in well," Feng Wu chuckled. "I fed them yesterday, but they''re always looking out the window for some reason. Perhaps they want to explore?"
"I have an idea," I said, a plan forming in my mind. "Why don''t we all go out for breakfast? It''s not good for them to be cooped up in here all the time."
Feng Wu''s face brightened. "That''s a wonderful idea, Kai. Let''s go."
We set out, Tianyi fluttering gracefully beside me while Windy slithered along the ground, his scales gleaming in the morning light. I prepared her cage, so I could carry her with ease. As we walked, Feng Wu placed a comforting hand on my shoulder.
"I am so proud of you, Kai," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "You''ve come so far in such a short time. Your performance in the Gauntlet has been nothing short of extraordinary."
"...Thanks, Feng Wu. I appreciate it."
A wave of guilt washed over me as he spoke. I hadn''t told him about Elder Wei''s interference or Jingyu Lian''s involvement in getting Lei Ren added as a judge. It felt like a betrayal, keeping this from him when he had been nothing but supportive. But the situation seemed to have resolved itself, and I didn''t want to cause any unnecessary worry.
"Speaking of the Gauntlet," Feng Wu continued, "how interesting that Master Lei Ren was one of the judges for this round. I wonder how he ended up on the panel so late?"
I froze, my heart pounding in my chest. Did he know? Had he somehow figured out my involvement in Lei Ren''s sudden appearance?
"I... I don''t know," I stammered, trying to regain my composure. "It was a surprise to everyone, I think."
Feng Wu studied me for a moment, his eyes narrowed slightly. I felt my back dampen with sweat.
"Are you alright, Kai?" he asked, his voice laced with concern. "You seem a little... on edge."
I forced a smile, hoping to dispel his suspicions. "Just tired, I guess. All that studying has taken its toll." I quickly changed the subject, gesturing towards a nearby food stall. "What do you think about that place? It looks quite good."
But Feng Wu wasn''t so easily distracted. He placed a gentle hand on my arm, halting my progress. "Kai," he said, his voice low and serious, "did you have anything to do with Master Lei Ren''s addition to the judges'' panel?"
A bead of sweat trickled down my back as Feng Wu''s words hung in the air. My mind raced, conjuring up images of me being banished, or worse, forced to endure an endless lecture from Feng Wu.
"Me?" I squeaked, my voice betraying my nerves. "Why, I''m just a humble herbalist, barely scraping by in this vast world of alchemy. Surely, you don''t suspect little ol'' me of meddling in the affairs of esteemed judges?" I attempted a nonchalant shrug, hoping to mask my rising panic.
Feng Wu''s eyes softened, and he gave my arm a reassuring squeeze. "Kai," he said gently, "you can tell me anything. You know that, don''t you?"
And that was all he needed to say before I cracked.
Elsewhere, in Crescent Bay City, a certain blue-eyed alchemist was sitting across a table beside an old man in pristine, silver robes.
Jingyu Lian spoke, her voice firm but respectful.
"Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, Master Lei Ren. It''s an honour."
"Spare me the formalities. What do you want?"
She remained in her seat, stiff as a rod. Jingyu Lian took a deep breath, her gaze unwavering as she looked directly into his eyes.
"Master Lei Ren," she began, her voice steady, "I need to know the truth. Were you instated as a judge by my father to give me a favorable result?"
The question hung in the air, heavy with implication. The silence that followed was almost unbearable. Lei Ren''s expression remained unreadable, his eyes locked onto hers, weighing her words.
103. Wheels Within Wheels
"Why would you think that?" Lei Ren finally asked, leaning back in his chair.
Jingyu Lian met his gaze unflinchingly, her spine straight, her voice steady despite the turmoil of emotions within her. "Master Lei Ren, your late entry into the judging panel was highly unusual. And throughout the assessment," she continued, her words precise and measured, "you consistently countered Elder Wei Lian''s influence. It seemed... deliberate. As if you were there to ensure fairness. As if," she paused, trying to think of the right thing to say. "you knew Elder Wei Lian would attempt to undermine my efforts."
Lei Ren''s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of amusement playing at the corners of his lips. "And so what if I was?" he challenged, leaning forward.
She bowed her head, her voice steady but laced with emotion. "Master Lei Ren, I respectfully ask you not to interfere. Although I appreciate your willingness to help, I have no desire to win unfairly. I want my victory to be earned through my own efforts, not through manipulation."
For a moment, silence stretched between them, tense and expectant. Then, unexpectedly, the older man burst out laughing, a deep, hearty laugh that echoed throughout the room.
Her head snapped up, her cheeks flushed with a mixture of anger and embarrassment. "What is so amusing, Master Lei Ren?" she demanded, her tone sharper than she intended.
Lei Ren raised a hand, still chuckling. "Forgive me, young alchemist," he said, wiping a tear from his eye. "Your earnestness is... refreshing." His laughter subsided, replaced by a somber expression. "But let me assure you, Jingyu Lian, your father did not orchestrate my involvement in the Gauntlet."
"Then why...?"
Leaning forward, Lei Ren''s eyes gleamed with a predatory intensity. "I was made aware of certain... advantages hidden within your envelope," he said, his voice low and menacing. "My task was to observe you. If you had succumbed to temptation and utilized those advantages, I would have exposed your dishonesty without hesitation. Your reputation, and that of your clan, would have been irreparably tarnished." He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "But you did not," he continued, a hint of approval in his voice. "You proved yourself to be a true alchemist, one of integrity and skill. Therefore, I judged your work impartially, as was my duty."
Her confusion only deepened. Jingyu Lian''s mind reeled. Someone had gone to great lengths to ensure a fair trial for her, but who? And why?
"Who orchestrated this, Master Lei Ren?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Lei Ren''s expression softened slightly, a rare hint of warmth in his eyes. "I won''t tell you who, but know this: it was someone with your best interests at heart. Someone who clearly had faith in your integrity and your skills."
Jingyu Lian''s thoughts whirled. Someone believed in her so deeply that they went to such lengths to ensure her fair treatment. But who? She couldn''t fathom who it might be, and Lei Ren''s silence on the matter only added to the mystery.
"But in regards to your request... I''m glad to admit you won''t have to worry about my, or anyone''s interference in the finals. I can say that, at least."
She looked at him, searching his face for any hint of deceit; but there was none to be found. She clasped her hands together and bowed deeply; a form of respect to the retired alchemist.
"Thank you, Master Lei Ren."
"If only my son had your manners..." Lei Ren sighed, briefly transforming from a domineering authority figure to an exasperated father. "You are dismissed, Jingyu Lian. May you find success through your own merits."
She bowed once more, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions as she exited the room. Who could have orchestrated such intricate measures for her benefit? The possibilities spun through her mind, each more baffling than the last.
As she stepped into the corridor, she was greeted by the familiar figure of her Senior Brother, Tian Zhan; the top genius of the Whispering Wind sect. His eagle-like eyes scanned her for any signs of stress, but were pleased to see her composed.
"Junior Sister," Tian Zhan greeted. "How did the meeting go?"
Jingyu managed a small smile, though her thoughts were still tangled. "Unexpectedly well. Master Lei Ren assured me that it wasn''t my father who arranged his involvement in the Gauntlet."
Tian Zhan frowned, his brow furrowing in confusion. "If not your father, then who? It doesn''t make sense. He''s the only one with a motive to see you succeed in the Gauntlet. Aside from us, of course. I''m cheering you on!"
She rolled her eyes at the second-class disciple who shot her a thumbs-up. Despite being distant cousins, she likened him to an older brother of sorts. The closest thing she had to a family.
Her mind analyzed every option as they exited the inn. Who would do it? Who had the motive to protect her from Elder Wei Lian, but also expose her if she took her father''s instructions and cheated?
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''Someone with my best interests at heart...someone who clearly had faith in my integrity and skill.''
Tao Ren? A fellow contestant, and one with a direct connection to Master Lei Ren. But she had never spoken to him throughout the entire competition. She dismissed it.
''Although, he was friends with...''
That was when another possibility struck her.
"Kai Liu...?"
SCENE BREAK
"...You''re really asking for it. One of these days, Kai..."
I squirmed in front of Feng Wu. I had told him everything. It was hard not to when he gave me that disappointed look. His face seemed to drain of color the more I told him about Jingyu Lian and her father''s conversation.
"Sorry, Feng Wu. I know I should''ve consulted you, but I knew we were pressed for time. It was--"
He shook his head and poured me a cup of tea, the fragrant steam curling between us. We had chosen the Spirited Noodle, its usual clamor providing a convenient cover for our conversation. The chaotic noise around us was almost comforting. Windy slithered around my robe, his cool scales brushing against my skin as he coiled around my arm, occasionally flicking out his tongue. Tianyi, perched delicately in her cage, sipped sugar water from a small dish provided by the attentive staff who recognized us from previous visits.
"No need to explain, Kai." He sipped his own cup, looking at the center of the restaurant where two men brawled. "You''re close friends with Tao Ren. Seeking out someone of authority like Lei Ren to deal with them... I can see why you''d do it."
As I breathed a sigh of relief, Feng Wu pierced me with his gaze.
"But," He continued. "Putting yourself in between Wei Lian and Lei Lian''s schemes? If at any point it had gotten wrong, you would''ve been facing one or both their ire."
I paused for a moment, and realized that Lei Lian was Jingyu Lian''s father in this context. I swallowed, knowing he was right.
"I know, that''s why I tried my best to be subtle about it. I didn''t confront him at the restaurant for that reason. Do I look like I want to be involved in an ''accident'' after overhearing a scheme that would ruin the Lian clan''s reputation?"
Feng Wu''s eyes softened slightly, a flicker of understanding mixed with concern. "Kai, I understand your intentions. Your heart was in the right place, and I can''t fault you for wanting to do the right thing. But you must realize that the world of alchemy is fraught with political maneuvering and hidden dangers. One wrong step can cost you everything."
I nodded, feeling the weight of his words. "I know, Feng Wu. But I couldn''t just stand by and watch Jingyu Lian be set up like that. She deserved a fair chance, just like everyone else."
He leaned back in his chair, studying me intently. "And what if your actions had been discovered? What if Wei Lian had found out about your involvement? He could have destroyed you, Kai. Your reputation, your future in alchemy¡ªeverything you''ve worked for could have been taken away in an instant."
"...I didn''t think about that at the time. I just wanted to do the right thing."
"What''s done is done. But promise me, Kai. Promise me that you won''t do something like this again without consulting me first. It''s not just your future on the line. You represent the Verdant Lotus Sect, and your actions have consequences for all of us."
"Promise, Feng Wu."
He shook his head, a mixture of exasperation and affection in his eyes. "You did a good job considering the situation. But remember, you can''t always do everything on your own. It hasn''t been that long since the incident with the Silent Moon. You didn''t forget that either, did you?"
Despite the urge to bury myself in a deep hole in the ground, I mustered out a small affirmation before putting my head down, playing with my food. I could feel Tianyi flutter over to the top of my head, sensing my emotions.
"So," he continued, leaning forward, "what are your plans for this afternoon?"
"Well, I''ll have to go back to the Million Books Pavilion to work on my quest. I need to complete it if I want to stand a chance against Jingyu Lian in the finals. To be honest, she is superior to me in terms of alchemy and I need every advantage I can get."
Feng Wu raised an eyebrow. "What''s this quest about again?"
I took a deep breath, thinking about the daunting task ahead. "I have to improve upon a hundred alchemical recipes within my Memory Palace. The problem is that most recipes are already refined to their utmost limit. And if they aren''t, I might not even realize how to improve them. I''m not at the level where I can just make them better in an instant."
If I had a year to do it, then I wouldn''t have had a problem. But I wanted to finish this quest before the finals. If my reward for completing my first Mind Refinement quest was the Memory Palace, then whatever it had in store for me would be crucial to defeating her.
The second-class disciple leaned back, a thoughtful expression on his face. "What does the quest classify as an improvement?"
I paused. Checking the quest, it said nothing of what it considered as an improvement. Only to improve upon the processes of the recipe.
"I don''t know, I just assumed it meant improving the effect of the end product." I replied. "But the quest doesn''t specify any other criteria."
He nodded, a spark of an idea in his eyes. "What about reducing the cost of ingredients? Streamlining the preparation process? Making the recipe more accessible to less experienced alchemists? These are all ways to improve a recipe without changing the end result."
The simplicity and brilliance of his suggestions dawned on me. Why hadn''t I thought about that?
"You''re right. Those are improvements too. And the Million Books Pavilion must have countless forgotten recipes from different regions that might need those exact kinds of improvements."
Feng Wu smiled. "That''s the power of having another mind to cooperate with. Remember, Kai, you''re not alone in this. Use the resources and people around you. You''d be surprised at how much it can help."
"Thanks. Actually, I want to try it right now; see if your hypothesis is correct. Do you mind if I...?"
He shook his head and shrugged. "By all means, go ahead. I''ll catch any errant bowls flying at you while you''re there."
I closed my eyes and did my best to block out the chaos within the restaurant.
The towering trees of my mind''s library shimmered as I materialized within my Memory Palace. My focus sharpened, filtering through the vast array of recipes I''d encountered, many of which I had deemed impossible to improve upon regarding the end product. Yet, with Feng Wu''s advice echoing in my mind, I began to consider a different approach: efficiency and accessibility.
One recipe caught my eye¡ªa simple herbal remedy for common colds and fevers, often used in local villages. The ingredients and methods were straightforward, almost rudimentary. I remembered my initial dismissal of it, thinking there was little room for significant improvement. But now, I approached it with a new perspective.
The original process involved multiple stages of preparation¡ªsoaking, boiling, and simmering the herbs at different intervals, which was both time-consuming and required constant supervision. As I reviewed the steps, I pinpointed an inefficiency: the soaking stage.
In the recipe, soaking the herbs for several hours was meant to soften them and extract their essence slowly. However, modern methods could accelerate this process. I imagined an infusion technique, using a gentle, continuous heat to expedite the extraction without losing potency. By adjusting the temperature and duration, the soaking and boiling stages could be merged, streamlining the entire preparation.
Satisfied with my improvement, I exited my Memory Palace. Opening my eyes, I saw Feng Wu watching me expectantly.
"Well?" he asked.
I checked the quest status.
|
Quest: Mind Refinement (Breakthrough)
Revise one-hundred alchemical recipes and improve upon the processes within your Memory Palace. (56/100)
|
Exhaling, a smile spread across my face. "It worked. Your idea worked. The Interface classified it as an improvement."
Feng Wu beamed, his eyes twinkling with satisfaction. "See? Sometimes, it''s not about the obvious improvements. Efficiency, accessibility¡ªthose matter just as much."
I clasped my hands together and bowed deeply, my voice loud and clear despite the din of the restaurant. "This young master is eternally grateful for the wisdom imparted by Senior Feng Wu! Truly, your insight has illuminated the path ahead. May the heavens bless you with boundless fortune and everlasting enlightenment!"
The man chuckled, playing along with a mock-serious tone. "Rise, young one. Your gratitude is noted, but remember, true enlightenment comes from within."
We exchanged banter for several minutes, the weight of the earlier conversation lifting. With renewed purpose and a light heart, I felt ready to tackle my quest with fresh vigor.
104. Breakthrough
I moved on to the next recipe, letting it unfurl before me. Titled as the "Sunfire Vitality Elixir," detailed a concoction said to enhance a cultivator''s inner fire and resilience. However, the process was convoluted, requiring precise timing and a complex sequence of heating and cooling cycles.
As I meticulously examined the steps, I kept in mind what I needed to do.
Although the Heavenly Interface didn''t have a specific idea in mind for refinement, it seemed to have a quantitative threshold for what constituted an "improvement". Based on my experience with the other recipes, it appeared that a modification needed to enhance the recipe''s effectiveness or efficiency by at least ten percent to be recognized as a valid advancement.
With this in mind, I scrutinized the Sunfire Vitality Elixir recipe, searching for opportunities to optimize the process. The initial step involved simmering a mixture of Sunfire Blade Grass and Bamboo Viper Scale powder for three hours, a time-consuming process that could easily be disrupted by fluctuations in temperature.
Drawing upon my knowledge of modern techniques, I envisioned a modification: utilizing a specialized pill furnace with precise temperature control to reduce the simmering time by half. This would not only accelerate the preparation but also ensure greater consistency in the extraction of the herbs'' essence. Furthermore, the recipe called for a specific type of alchemical water, drawn from a secluded spring deep within a volcanic mountain range. While this water was said to enhance the elixir''s fire-enhancing properties, it was an unnecessary extravagance. By carefully purifying and distilling ordinary water, I could achieve a similar effect.
I glanced at the quest log in my mind''s eye, eager to see if the Heavenly Interface recognized my efforts.
|
Quest: Mind Refinement (Breakthrough)
Revise one-hundred alchemical recipes and improve upon the processes within your Memory Palace. (83/100)
|
I couldn''t hold back the smile forming on my face. At this rate, I''d be finished by tonight! With time to spare! If I were the sort to indulge, I would''ve kissed Feng Wu for that advice!
My pace hastened as I got closer to reaching my goal. I couldn''t wait to show Zhi Ruo.
Time flowed like water as I as I dove into recipe after recipe, each one a puzzle waiting to be solved. I streamlined, substituted, innovated, and optimized, always with the goal of pushing the boundaries of efficiency and accessibility. The pages of ancient texts blurred before my eyes as I mentally dissected each process, my mind ablaze with a fervor I hadn''t known before.
Looking at the last recipe, the Jade Skin Preservation Pill, a concoction said to maintain a youthful complexion and radiant skin. This was a product within Bai Hua''s purview.
However, the process was convoluted, requiring a multi-day brewing process. While once popular among people seeking eternal beauty, the recipe had lost relevance over the centuries as more efficient and potent alternatives emerged.
But I was no longer the novice alchemist I once was. Armed with the wisdom of Feng Wu and the countless hours of study within my Memory Palace, I saw the recipe with fresh eyes. I identified bottlenecks in the process, unnecessary steps that could be consolidated, and substitutions for rare ingredients that would not compromise the elixir''s efficacy.
With a final flourish, I completed my revision, my mind buzzing with the thrill of discovery. As I closed my eyes, the familiar chime of the Heavenly Interface resonated in my mind.
|
Quest: Mind Refinement (Breakthrough) has been completed.
Due to your status as Interface Manipulator, your rewards will be adjusted accordingly.
|
"WOOHOO!"
Zhi Ruo jumped, almost collapsing a pile of books as tall as he was in the process.
"Kai, please don''t do that! You almost gave me a heart attack."
"Nevermind that, Zhi! I finished my quest!"
His face changed from irritation to astonishment. "Already? But it''s only been four hours!"
"I know, it''s all because o-"
| A surge of clarity washes over you. The intricacies of the world unfold before your inner eye.
Your Mind has advanced to Qi Initiation Realm - Rank 1 |
|
Your Mind is growing more powerful.
This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.
You can now utilize the skill, Refinement Simulation Technique.
|
Like the first time I completed the Mind Refinement quest, I was struck with an epiphany. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing the intricacies of alchemical processes in a new, profound light. I felt my mind expand, the complexities of the recipes and their interactions becoming clearer and more intuitive. I blinked to allow myself some time to readjust.
¡°I¡¯ve reached a breakthrough!¡± I exclaimed, barely able to contain my excitement.
Zhi Ruo blinked, trying to process my sudden outburst. ¡°A breakthrough? You mean...¡±
¡°Yes! My mind has advanced to the first rank of the Qi Initiation stage! And I¡¯ve unlocked a new skill, the Refinement Simulation Technique.¡±
His eyes widened in amazement. ¡°That¡¯s incredible, Kai! What does the Refinement Simulation Technique do?¡±
| Refinement Simulation Technique (Level 1): A technique that activates instinctively when refining begins and heightening awareness. It enables visualization of the refining process, allowing the alchemist to predict ingredient interactions and furnace reactions. This technique provides adjustments, enabling reflexive corrections to prevent instability, and grants unparalleled control over the refining process. |
¡°It allows me to simulate and test alchemical refinements mentally before I actually create them,¡± I said, my voice brimming with enthusiasm. ¡°I need to test it out. Is there a place where we can practice alchemy?¡±
Zhi Ruo frowned thoughtfully. ¡°There is a building near the Alchemy Association, but it¡¯s closed right now.¡±
I felt a pang of frustration. I needed to see how it worked!
Then, a thought struck me. ¡°Wait! What if I use recipes that don¡¯t require anything more than simple tools? We don¡¯t need a full alchemical lab for that, right?¡±
Zhi Ruo nodded slowly, a grin spreading across his face. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right. We can use my study room. It has enough space and basic tools for simple alchemical practices. It''s what I used to practice for the Gauntlet!¡±
¡°Perfect! Lead the way,¡± I said eagerly.
As we walked, I felt a surge of anticipation. This new skill could be a game-changer, and I was itching to put it to the test. Zhi Ruo guided me to his study, a spacious room lined with bookshelves and alchemical tools neatly arranged on wooden tables.
¡°Alright, let¡¯s see what this Refinement Simulation Technique can do,¡± I said, taking a deep breath.
Looking at the available ingredients, I could only practice with the most basic of recipes. A certain one came to mind, triggering memories of my challenge against the Silent Moon sect.
"I''ll be making the Spirit Soothing Pill."
Zhi Ruo nodded, helping me collect the ingredients to create it.
As soon as I began, the Refinement Simulation Technique activated reflexively. I felt a heightened awareness of my surroundings, as if I could see an overlay of myself moving, preparing the ingredients, and placing them in the pill furnace. It was an almost surreal experience, like watching a premonition unfold.
In this mental simulation, I was drawn to a peculiar detail: the poor quality of the pill furnace. It made it harder to infuse qi and maintain a constant heat, causing fluctuations that could ruin the entire process. This realization struck me within a split-second, and I slowly came out of my trance.
"Zhi Ruo," I began, turning to him, "have you had difficulties maintaining the temperature of your pill furnace?"
He looked at me, surprised. "Yes, I have. It''s because I couldn''t afford a high-quality one for training and got this one at a discount. How did you know?"
I explained how the Refinement Simulation Technique worked, how it maximized my focus, combined my alchemical knowledge and visualization ability to predict how my refinement would go, and pinpointed a mistake there, allowing me to catch it before it even happened.
"That¡¯s incredible, Kai," Zhi Ruo said, admiration in his voice. "I''ve never heard of such a technique before."
I smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Let''s see if my prediction is right."
I started the process, carefully preparing the ingredients and placing them into the furnace. I adjusted the temperature as needed, compensating for the furnace''s flaws and the simple tools. The simulation had shown me the pitfalls, and I navigated around them with ease. As the ingredients began to combine, I felt the process flowing smoothly. The temperature remained stable, and the qi infusion was precise. It seemed that with my breakthrough, my qi manipulation abilities had only gotten sharper.
The furnace, despite its flaws, was no match for the clarity and control the technique provided.
Finally, the Spirit Soothing Pill was complete. I held it up, marveling at its perfection. The pill radiated a soft, calming energy, its surface smooth and flawless.
"This is the most perfect one I''ve created yet," I said, handing it to Zhi Ruo.
He examined it, his eyes wide with amazement. "Kai, this is incredible. The quality is exceptional. Your new technique is truly powerful!"
I puffed up my chest, raising my sleeves with an exaggerated flourish. "Oh, this is just the beginning, Zhi Ruo! With this new technique, my alchemical prowess will reach unparalleled heights. Just imagine what I''ll be able to achieve!"
Zhi Ruo grinned, catching onto my exaggerated tone. "Oh, do tell, Master Kai. Enlighten this humble scholar with your boundless wisdom."
I struck a pose, mimicking the arrogant young masters from stories. I channeled my inner ''Duan Jian''. "Behold! With my newfound Refinement Simulation Technique, even the heavens will tremble at my alchemical genius! No furnace too flawed, no ingredient too stubborn! All will bend to my will!"
The man chuckled, playing along. "Truly, Master Kai, you are destined for greatness. Perhaps the next elixir should be one of immortality, so we can bask in your brilliance for all eternity!"
I laughed, the playful banter lifting the remaining tension from the room. "Indeed, my dear Zhi Ruo. But first, let us test the limits of this technique. What other recipes shall we conquer tonight?"
Zhi Ruo''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "Oh, what if we try with..."
We spent the rest of the night testing various recipes, each one a new adventure. The Refinement Simulation Technique proved invaluable, turning even the most complex concoctions into manageable tasks. Our laughter and banter filled the study, making the hours fly by.
"Ugh, my head..." i moaned, nursing a light headache from all our shenanigans last night.
I sipped on tea, the last product of my Refinement Simulation technique before we concluded our experiments. It was nice to know it could work in many different scenarios. The blend of oolong and pu-erh served to keep me alert and energized, despite the lack of sleep. As I sipped, I took a moment to reflect on the discoveries we had made with the Refinement Simulation Technique.
We spent the better part of the night documenting our findings, figuring out the technique was reliant on my existing knowledge of alchemy and ingredients. If I don''t know a certain technique or ingredient, the simulation doesn''t work and can''t show the full picture. It only works with what I already know.
Together, we compiled notes on how the technique worked, its limitations, and the various recipes we had successfully refined. I shared all this knowledge with Zhi Ruo freely, as thanks for helping me and knowing he wouldn''t use it against me.
"You know," Zhi Ruo said as we finished writing, "since we share many similar skills, I might be able to trigger the same conditions which allowed for the quest upon reaching the same cultivation rank for my mind."
"You definitely should. Just after the Gauntlet, once I''ve already won. I don''t need you making things more difficult for me." I said, my lips curling into a mischievous smirk.
We shared a laugh, basking in the comfortable silence afterward. I could hear the Million Books Pavilion slowly filling in with people. It was faint, however, as only scholars, scholar-officials, or students could access the Million Books Pavilion. It was only through sheer luck I managed to befriend Zhi Ruo and gain access to it.
The librarian looked at me, eyes bright with curiosity. "So, what are your plans for this afternoon, Kai?"
I stretched, feeling the fatigue in my muscles. "I''ll take a quick nap to energize myself, then come back here to train and practice my new skill as much as I can. Since the Refinement Simulation Technique is limited by my knowledge, I need to understand it better. I''ll take a break on the final day tomorrow to be ready for the finals."
He nodded in agreement but then his expression shifted to one of concern. "Just make sure you don''t oversleep and miss the meeting this afternoon at the Alchemy Association."
I frowned, my mind going blank for a moment. "...What meeting?"
105. Tools of the Trade
¡°You''re lucky I reminded you,¡± Zhi Ruo said, shaking his head.
As we made our way toward the Alchemy Association, I couldn¡¯t help but berate myself internally. Of course there would be a prize for making it to the finals! How could I have been so wrapped up in my own little world that I missed that crucial detail? I had been so consumed with my quest and the intrigue surrounding Jingyu Lian that I had completely overlooked it.
After a quick nap and a hearty breakfast ¨C while Zhi Ruo went home to visit his family ¨C we met up again, ready to face the day. I had even picked up a small, but elegant, ink pot for Guowei Wang. It wouldn''t hurt to make connections early in my career, would it?
The Alchemy Association building loomed ahead, its grandeur never failing to impress. The towering structure seemed to touch the sky, its intricate carvings and golden accents glistening in the sunlight. It was almost dizzying despite having come here so many times already.
¡°Come on, we don¡¯t want to be late,¡± Zhi Ruo nudged me, snapping me out of my reverie.
As we approached the entrance, I noticed the three other contestants who had made it to the finals. Among them was Jingyu Lian, who was staring at me with an intensity that gave me shivers down my spine.
Before I could muster the courage to ask her if she had a problem, Ma Hualong¡¯s booming voice greeted us.
¡°Welcome, finalists!¡±
I glanced at her again; she had finally broken her stare and was now focusing on Ma Hualong. I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that there was something she wanted to say to me, but now wasn¡¯t the time to dwell on it.
We followed Ma Hualong past the familiar face of the clerk and down the grand staircase towards the vault. His presence here was unusual; usually, Guowei Wang handled the distribution of rewards. A sense of anticipation thrummed through me. What was going on?
"I trust you all have rested well?" He inquired, his eyes scanning our faces.
A chorus of affirmations rose from the group, but my own response was a bit delayed. I hadn''t slept much, my mind still racing with the possibilities that the Refinement Simulation Technique offered.
"Good," Ma Hualong continued. "I have a question for you all. Why do you think the Gauntlet operates on the model where after every round, those who qualify get prizes, and those who perform at the top of every round gain an advantage that helps them move on to the next round?"
Silence fell over the group as we pondered his question. I kept my thoughts to myself, intrigued by his line of inquiry.
We passed through several heavily guarded doors without an answer. Finally, Ma Hualong broke the silence.
"In alchemy, as in cultivation," he began, his voice echoing in the corridor, "small successes build upon one another, creating momentum that propels the practitioner to greater heights. This mirrors the natural laws of the universe, where energy and effort, once set in motion, tend to amplify over time."
His words resonated with me. Every small victory, every successful concoction, had fueled my confidence and drive to learn more. Each step forward had opened up new possibilities, leading me to where I was today.
"As you advance," Ma Hualong continued, "the challenges grow steeper. The rewards and advantages are not just incentives but essential tools to help you climb higher."
We reached the final door, leading to where Guowei Wang was.
There, the vault keeper sat with a small smile on his face. It widened upon seeing me, and I waved at him.
"For the past four rounds, you''ve all had the honor of receiving one item from the vault of your choice. This time, however, instead of choosing an ingredient or product, you will each select a tool."
"A tool?" Tian Zhu asked, raising an eyebrow. "What kind of tool?"
"These tools are specially crafted, a collaboration between us and the province''s finest artisans. They are designed to accelerate your growth and nurture the field of alchemy. The tools are also encouraged to be used in the final round."
Fang Xiang stepped forward, his voice dripping with eagerness. "So these tools are designed to give us an edge in the finals?"
"Exactly," The man confirmed. "Each tool has unique properties that can enhance your alchemical process. Choose wisely, as the tool you select will assist you in the final round and be a valuable asset in your future endeavors."
Zhi Ruo, always the practical one, asked, "Are these tools tailored to our individual strengths and weaknesses?"
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"Indeed. Each tool here is versatile, but they have features that cater to different alchemical styles and techniques. It''s up to you to decide which one aligns best with your approach."
Jingyu Lian, who had been silent up until now, finally spoke up. "How do we know which tool is best for us?"
"Trust your instincts," Ma Hualong advised. "You have all come this far by honing your skills and listening to your inner voice. Let that guide you in making your choice. Guowei Wang and I will be available for questions as you make your choice. Then after, the final round will be explained in detail."
We followed them deeper into the vault. The air grew cooler, and the lighting dimmed as we ventured further. The walls, lined with shelves filled with rare ingredients and precious pills, seemed to pulse with an ancient energy. My heart raced with anticipation as we approached the back of the vault.
Guowei Wang stepped forward. With a swift motion, he retrieved a talisman from his robe and pressed it against a seemingly solid wall. The air shimmered, and an invisible door revealed itself, swinging open to expose a hidden chamber.
We stepped inside, and I couldn''t help but gasp at the sight before me. A vast array of top-tier alchemical tools, each more magnificent than the last, was meticulously aligned before us. The room was bathed in a soft, ethereal light that seemed to emanate from the tools themselves.
Ma Hualong gestured for us to explore. "Take your time. Examine each tool carefully. This decision could very well influence the outcome of the final round."
He glanced over to Jingyu Lian, beckoning her over.
"As the top performer in the last round, you will have the benefit of picking first."
She nodded and made a beeline to a separate section of the vault dedicated to hand-held tools.
Zhi Ruo and I gravitated toward the pill furnaces, their imposing forms dominating the chamber''s center.
"Pill furnaces are the heart of any alchemist''s workshop," The librarian murmured, his eyes scanning the array with scholarly intensity. "I''d wager these are the most sought-after prizes."
But as we delved deeper into the selection, I couldn''t help but notice that Tian Zhu and Fang Xiang were conspicuously avoiding the pill furnaces, instead focusing on other, seemingly less significant tools.
"Curious," I remarked to Zhi Ruo, a hint of puzzlement in my voice. "Why do you think they''re ignoring the furnaces?"
Zhi Ruo shrugged, his brows furrowed in thought. "Perhaps they have a specific strategy in mind," he offered. "Or maybe..."
Before he could finish his sentence, a voice chimed in from behind us, causing him to jump in surprise. "They already have their own pill furnaces," Guowei Wang explained, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "The children of wealthy clans often inherit centuries-old furnaces, imbued with the qi of countless refinements. These treasures are far more potent than anything we could offer here."
"Really?" I asked, my eyes widening in astonishment. "I knew pill furnaces improved with use, but I had no idea they could become that powerful."
Realizing this was my chance, I pulled out the ink pot I had brought and held it out to him. "Before I forget, Guowei, I brought this for you as a token of appreciation. You''ve been crucial in helping me pick out the treasures I wanted from here."
Guowei Wang''s eyes widened in surprise. He took the ink pot, examining it with a soft smile. "Thank you, Kai. This is a very thoughtful gift. An ink pot?"
I nodded. "I don''t live here, so it''ll be hard to keep in touch. I figured to buy you an ink pot so we can send letters back and forth!"
He bowed slightly, clearly touched by the gesture.
I nodded, feeling a sense of satisfaction. It was nice to see my small token of appreciation received so warmly. Guowei Wang continued his explanation, his tone warm and informative.
"Now, as I was saying, those who already have powerful pill furnaces see no need to select another. They prefer to choose tools that complement their existing equipment. For those of you who are..."
"Commoners?" Zhi Ruo said, seeing the older man struggle to find the appropriate words to describe us.
"Well, yes. Those who do not have a pill furnace to inherit would benefit the most from here."
I exchanged a glance with Zhi Ruo and couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. "Well, Zhi, it seems we''re at a disadvantage without our own ancient, family-heirloom pill furnaces."
Zhi Ruo laughed, shaking his head. "Indeed. We mere commoners have to make do with what we can get."
"Kai LIu!" Ma Hualong said from the other end of the vault. "You''re next! Take your pick."
Guowei Wang joined us as we began to peruse the pill furnaces. His deep knowledge of each one became evident as he guided us through the selection, stopping at each furnace to explain its unique properties and the styles they suited best.
"This one here," he said, pointing to a sleek, silver furnace with delicate engravings, "is ideal for those who focus on precision and control. The internal structure allows for fine adjustments to the temperature and qi infusion, making it perfect for refining delicate elixirs."
I nodded, taking in his words as we moved on to the next one. Each furnace had its own story, its own strengths and weaknesses. It was fascinating to see how varied they were, and how each was designed with a specific alchemical approach in mind.
Guowei Wang stopped in front of a larger, sturdier furnace, its exterior adorned with runes that seemed to pulse with latent energy. "This one is for those who deal with large batches or more robust concoctions. The reinforced structure and enhanced qi channels can handle higher volumes and more potent ingredients without compromising the stability of the process."
I could see the appeal of each one, but none of them felt quite right for me.
We continued down the line, and my eyes fell on a pill furnace at the very end.
It was much more complex than the rest, with a wide, round vase-like appearance. The lid was styled like a pagoda roof with two-tiered levels and a finial knob at the very top. Intricate mechanisms adorned its sides, and I could see various controls that seemed almost overwhelming at first glance.
Guowei Wang noticed my interest and walked over. "Ah, this one. It''s a complicated item with a dark past. It was created by an artisan who over-engineered it with the intent of making it a gift for an official''s son to help him become an alchemist. Unfortunately, the pill furnace is ridiculously complicated, requiring fine controls along the sides to give the user unparalleled control over the process. Each layer of the roof can undertake a different alchemical process."
He paused, letting the weight of his words settle in. "The politician was angered by its complexity, leading to a feud with the artisan. The man ended up being hanged, and this pill furnace was his last remaining work. It remained here as it is far too unwieldy even for most alchemists despite the quality."
I stared at the furnace, feeling a strange connection to it. Its complexity, its potential for precision and control¡ªit felt tailor-made for my Refinement Simulation Technique. "Can you show me how the controls work?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
Guowei Wang nodded, his eyes gleaming with approval. He showed us the basic controls but emphasized that there were more nuances to it that couldn''t be shown in just one demonstration. Instead of discouraging me, it only served to motivate me even more. The more complex and demanding the furnace, the better it would synergize with my skills. This pill furnace, with its unparalleled control and multi-layered functionality, had the highest ceiling for long-term gains.
"I''ll choose this one," I declared.
With my choice made, the rest of the selections followed quickly. Fang Xiang picked a brush designed to aid in the creation of alchemy arrays, its bristles made from the tail hairs of a spirit fox. Tian Zhu selected a pair of gloves that apparently enhanced one''s dexterity. Zhi Ruo, after some contemplation, chose a simpler, yet finely-crafted pill furnace that matched his steady and methodical approach to alchemy.
As we all gathered back in line, I noticed Jingyu Lian holding a glass case containing a set of golden needles. The sight reminded me of Elder Zhu''s acupuncture needles, and curiosity got the better of me.
"Jingyu Lian," I began, trying to sound casual, "why did you choose the golden acupuncture needles as your tools?"
She looked at me oddly, but there was no trace of arrogance or hostility in her eyes. Instead, she addressed me respectfully. "...These needles allow me to infuse qi into my ingredients directly, bringing about new and various side-effects. Additionally, they can be used for acupuncture, which is a skill I''ve been honing for years."
Her answer was straightforward, and I found myself respecting her dedication. Before I could say anything else, Ma Hualong''s voice cut through the room.
"Now that everyone has selected their tools, I will explain the final round: the Crucible of the Five Elements."
106. Allies & Adversaries
A whirlwind of information about the final round left my head spinning. The Crucible of the Five Elements... it sounded daunting, exciting, and a little bit terrifying. My gaze drifted to the ancient storage ring on my finger, a gift from Guowei Wang that held my prize, the Two-Star Pagoda Pill Furnace. It was hard to believe that such a massive tool was now mine.
I''d have to get as familiar with it before the round. There goes my day off, I suppose.
"If I''d known Guowei Wang was so generous," Zhi Ruo grumbled beside me, "I would''ve gifted him a fine brush to complement that ink pot!"
A chuckle escaped my lips. "I got lucky," I admitted, remembering the near-humiliation of renting a wheelbarrow to transport my unwieldy prize. "Storage rings are a luxury for most, it seems."
Zhi Ruo shot me a wry look. "Tell me about it," he muttered, struggling to maneuver his chosen tool on the small cart provided by the Association. "Maybe an alchemist''s salary will finally get me one."
"First thing on the shopping list," I agreed with a grin. "Unless you fancy lugging that contraption around everywhere."
Before he could retort, a voice called out from across the Marble Jade Arena. "Hey, you two!"
Tian Zhu and Fang Xiang stood there, leaning against the wall with uncharacteristic smiles on their faces. They weren''t directly antagonistic towards me like Duan Jian, but they were far from friendly before this. My eyebrows furrowed. Their sudden affability felt... suspicious. I nudged Zhi Ruo, exchanging a questioning glance. What could these two want?
"Congratulations on making it this far," Tian Zhu began, his tone almost too friendly. "Especially given your backgrounds."
Fang Xiang nodded in agreement. "It''s impressive. Most wouldn''t have thought commoners could compete at this level."
I bristled at the word but I kept my expression neutral. "Thanks," I said cautiously. "We''ve worked hard to get here."
Zhi Ruo nodded beside me, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Yeah, hard work pays off."
Fang Xiang''s smile widened, though it didn''t reach his eyes. "Indeed it does. But hard work alone won''t be enough for the final round. The Crucible of the Five Elements is going to be a true test of our abilities."
Tian Zhu leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "We were thinking... after Ma Hualong''s explanation, it became clear that the final round will be incredibly challenging. It would be smart to eliminate the biggest threat among us."
I frowned, not liking where this was heading. "What are you trying to say?"
Fang Xiang glanced around, ensuring no one else was listening. "We''re suggesting a temporary alliance. Jingyu Lian is the most formidable competitor and the favorite to win it all. If we work together, we can take her out first."
My blood ran cold at the suggestion. "You want us to collude to take out Jingyu Lian?" I asked, my voice rising slightly. "That''s..."
Zhi Ruo stood by me, his face set with determination. "I''m not comfortable with this idea at all. We should compete on our merits, not through deceit."
Tian Zhu''s smile faded, replaced by a look of irritation. "You two are missing the bigger picture. This is about strategy. If we let her be, it''s almost certain she''ll win."
Fang Xiang nodded in agreement. "Think about it. She''s the only one standing in the way of all of us having a real shot at winning."
I shook my head, my resolve firm. "If you''re so weak that you have to gang up on a woman, maybe you should just quit. I''m here to compete, not to conspire."
Tian Zhu''s eyes flashed with anger, but he didn''t respond. Fang Xiang opened his mouth to argue, but I cut him off. "I''ve crossed lines and broken rules before, but I can live with what''s in my soul. I won''t betray that for a cheap victory. Come on, Zhi Ruo. We don''t need to listen to anymore of this drivel."
I turned away and walked off, they said something as we departed, but I didn''t care to listen.
The both of us were walking in silence, the tension from the confrontation still hanging in the air.
"Watch your back," Zhi Ruo said quietly. "They might not take kindly to our refusal."
"I know," I replied. "Be careful on your way home. I don''t trust them not to try something underhanded."
He nodded, his expression serious. "What about you? What are you going to do?"
I hesitated, not wanting to reveal my true intentions. "Just need to get something. I''ll meet up with you later."
The librarian gave me a skeptical look but didn''t press further. "Alright, see you later. Be careful."
With a nod, I turned and retraced my steps, trying to remember the direction Jingyu Lian had taken after leaving the arena. The chilly afternoon air bit at my skin, and I pulled my robe tighter around me. The streets were filled with people dressed in thicker clothing, their breath visible in the cold.
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"There she is," I muttered to myself.
I spotted a familiar hooded robe in the distance. Jingyu Lian''s distinctive attire was hard to miss.
I quickened my pace, weaving through the crowd, but just as I was about to reach her, a hand like a steel vice clamped down on my arm. Pain flared through my shoulder as I was yanked backwards and forced to my knees.
A cold voice cut through the din. "And where do you think you''re going?"
I looked up, trying to see who had me in their grasp. The figure was cloaked, their face obscured by shadows. The strength in their grip told me they were no ordinary person. I tried to wrench myself free but to no avail.
"Tian Zhan! Let him go!"
Just like that, the pressure disappeared at her command. He drew back, almost gliding towards her but still facing between us in a protective manner. Jingyu Lian gazed at me with an intrigued look.
"Kai Liu? What do you want?"
My arm throbbed from the sudden release, but I pushed the pain aside, focusing on the opportunity to speak with her. "I wanted to talk to you about something important," I began, trying to keep my voice steady.
Her eyebrow arched, a slight frown marring her otherwise serene face. "Here in the middle of the street?"
Heat crept up my neck as I realized we were attracting unwanted attention. "No," I mumbled, my gaze darting around at the curious onlookers. "Somewhere more discreet."
Jingyu Lian nodded, her eyes narrowing. "Follow me."
A curt nod was all she offered before turning on her heel and leading the way. We followed her through a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, the air growing colder with each step. Tian Zhan, silent as a shadow, remained a few paces behind, his watchful gaze never leaving my back.
Before I knew it, we were in a quiet tea shop. The owner greeted her with a deep bow and led us to a private room with sliding doors. The atmosphere was calm and serene, as a musician played the lute outside, just faint enough to hear. She and her escort removed their hoods, revealing their faces fully.
The escort, Tian Zhan, had wild, grey hair and piercing eyes that reminded me of Windy''s. Where have I...?
Recognition hit me like a ton of bricks. This was the same person I had seen at Spirited Noodle when I first came to Crescent Bay City.
His eyes, sharp as a hawk''s, remained fixed on me with undisguised suspicion. Jingyu Lian, however, seemed more composed. She settled onto a cushion with the grace of a swan, her gaze unwavering. "Well?" she prompted, her voice as smooth as silk. "What did you want to say?"
Taking a deep breath, I started. "Fang Xiang and Tian Zhu approached me and Zhi Ruo. They suggested we work together to eliminate you in the final round."
Her eyes didn''t betray anything, and she remained silent. Taking that as a sign, I continued.
"I refused," I said firmly. "I don''t believe in ganging up on someone. I just wanted to warn you."
Jingyu Lian went quiet, her gaze piercing through me. The silence stretched, and I felt a knot of nervousness tightening in my stomach. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft but demanding. "Why are you doing this? Why go so far to protect a stranger?"
I blinked, caught off guard. "What are you talking about? It''s not about protection. I just have integrity. I don''t want to cheat."
"Cheating, yes," she echoed, her voice laced with a hint of irony. Her eyes narrowed, a glint of suspicion in their depths. "You seem to have a knack for interfering in other people''s affairs, don''t you?"
My heart skipped a beat. She knew. I feared the worst, wondering if she realized I had eavesdropped on her and her father at Cloudrift Pavilion. "I... I don''t know what you''re talking about." I stammered, feeling exposed under her scrutiny.
But her gaze remained unwavering, piercing through my facade like a blade. "Master Lei Ren," she said softly, the name hanging in the air like a challenge. "You were the one who brought him into the Gauntlet, weren''t you?"
Shit.
A cold dread washed over me. I had been discovered.
She continued to stare at me, her expression unreadable. I braced myself for accusations, for the icy disdain I was sure would follow.
But instead, her voice was surprisingly soft, almost curious. "Why didn''t you leave things be?" she asked. "You could have had an easier path to winning the Gauntlet."
The question hung in the air, heavy with unspoken implications. My heart hammered in my chest, but my gaze didn''t waver. "Winning by deceit isn''t winning at all," I countered, my voice steadier than I felt. "I want to earn my victory, not steal it."
Unless you counted Duan Jian. Or Elder Jun. But they don''t count!
A faint smile tugged at the corner of her lips. "You''re an unusual one, Kai Liu," she murmured.
Tian Zhan seemed to relax, his stern demeanor easing a bit. I breathed a sigh of relief. Having slitted eyes trained on you for several minutes was unnerving, to say the least. "It seems you''ve found yourself a suitor, Mistress Jingyu," he remarked with a slight smirk.
I felt my face flush with embarrassment. "It''s not like that!" I protested, waving my hands in denial. "I just wanted to help."
Tian Zhan chuckled, the sound surprisingly warm and genuine. "I jest," he said, bowing his head slightly. "Kai Liu, is it? I apologize for the earlier... enthusiasm. I owe you a debt of gratitude for looking out for my Junior Sister. Rest assured, we''ll take your warning to heart."
Jingyu Lian nodded, a sincere expression on her face. "Thank you, Kai Liu," she said softly, her tone carrying genuine gratitude as she looked into my eyes. "I won''t forget this."
Thud-thud!
Her words, so simple yet so powerful, struck a chord within me. My heart pounded erratically in my chest, each beat louder than the last. I couldn''t tell if it was the relief that she didn''t press further about Master Lei Ren or something else entirely. As she turned to leave, I found myself captivated by the way her presence filled the room.
"...No problem. Just doing what I should."
I took a deep breath, trying to steady my thoughts. Something was wrong with me. Was this the onset of Qi Deviation? The erratic heartbeat and sudden rush of emotions certainly felt like it. I shook my head, trying to dispel the thought. Maybe it was just the sheer relief of not being exposed.
Lost in my thoughts, I stood there for a moment as they left the private room, then groaned.
Feng Wu was going to have my head for pulling another stunt like this.
I knelt on the cold floor of the Jade Harmony Inn, my forehead pressed against the wooden boards. I truly lived up to my moniker as Kowtow Kai with this one. "I''m sorry, Feng Wu! I''m really sorry! I just thought it was the right thing to do," I pleaded, my voice shaking with fear.
Feng Wu stood in front of me, his hands clasped behind his back. His expression was unreadable, a mix of contemplation and irritation. The silence stretched, thick with unspoken disappointment, and I braced myself for the inevitable scolding.
"Get up, Kai," he said with a sigh, his tone surprisingly gentle. "You''re not in trouble for antagonizing Fang Xiang and Tian Zhu."
I lifted my head, blinking in confusion. "I''m not?" I asked, hesitantly rising to my feet.
Feng Wu shook his head. "No. In fact, you might have just earned yourself a powerful ally in the process, far more powerful than those two combined."
I stared at him, baffled. "Jingyu Lian? Why would her favour be so important?"
I could see how her affiliations with the Whispering Wind sect was crucial, but that didn''t seem as big of a benefit he was making it out to be.
Feng Wu''s eyes narrowed slightly as he studied me. "Not just her. Tian Zhan is no ordinary disciple. The Howling Wind. He''s their number one genius and the one rumoured to be next in line to inherit their Sect Leader''s position."
My jaw dropped. "There''s no way..."
"Did he have grey hair and sharp eyes?" Feng Wu asked, his tone calm.
I nodded, still reeling from the revelation. "Yeah, he did. But... that was him?"
He nodded, a slight smile playing on his lips. "When we ran into him at the Spirited Noodle that one time, I had an inkling it was Tian Zhan, based on his strength and appearance. I didn''t think he was acting as a personal escort for Jingyu Lian, however."
I was in shock, my mind racing to process everything. The tension that had been gripping me eased slightly as I realized I wasn''t in as much trouble as I thought. I let out a sigh of relief, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders.
Feng Wu''s smile vanished, replaced by a stern expression. "Don''t get too comfortable," he warned, his voice taking on a chilly edge. "You are in trouble. Just not for the reason you think."
My heart sank. "But... you said..."
"You''re in trouble for not listening to me and avoiding fights," Feng Wu interrupted, his voice as cold as the winter air outside. "I specifically told you to stay out of this political mess between the other clans and families. And what did you do? You jumped right into the middle of it."
His shadow seemed to loom over me, and I felt a chill run down my spine. "Feng Wu, wait! You can''t hurt me! Are you really going to injure me before the finals? Hey, I''m not even an official disciple! You can''t do this to a guest!" I babbled, desperation creeping into my voice.
Feng Wu''s eyes were closed as he stepped closer. The temperature seemed to drop by several degrees. "Are you ready for your punishment, Kai?"
I looked over to my familiars in a panic, looking for support. Windy was resting peacefully, ignoring the trouble, and Tianyi seemed unwilling to make eye-contact with me. Those no-good familiars! Ignoring me when I''m in peril!
My screams were heard throughout the Jade Harmony Inn, and far beyond.
107. The Crucible Begins
The screams and shouts of the crowd could be heard from the contestant''s lounge. I sighed, feeling too mentally tired to even get nervous. Zhi Ruo stared at me curiously, his pill furnace lying beside him on a cart.
"You''re still not gonna tell me what Feng Wu did to you?"
I shivered, the memories of that night too harsh to remember. "If you three idiots getting me drunk last night didn''t work, what makes you think I''d say it now?"
The second-class disciple hadn''t laid a hand on me, but the mental scars I received that day... It was enough to prevent me from interfering in any politics anymore. Duan Jian could punch me in the face right now and I''d preach pacifism and the Buddhist sutra to his face, so long as it prevented Feng Wu from punishing me again.
"You know you can tell us everything, right? We''re sworn comrades! I wouldn''t tell another soul about what happened!"
"It''s not that, I¡ª"
"Could you two be quiet?" A voice interrupted snidely from afar. I turned to see Tian Zhu, wearing the new gloves he got from the vault, turning around to look at us grouchily. "Some of us actually have important things to discuss."
I rolled my eyes. It seemed the two were hell-bent on colluding to take Jingyu Lian out. But we didn''t discount the possibility of them dealing with us first. Me and Zhi Ruo had promised that if it turned to that, then we''d band together to defeat them before proceeding with the rest of the match fairly.
"Oh, like your plans for a two-on-one ambush?" I retorted, a smirk playing on my lips. "Now that''s important."
Tian Zhu''s face reddened, his fists clenching. "You¡ª"
The rest of his words were cut short by the arrival of Jingyu Lian, who entered the lounge with her usual air of cool composure. Her presence seemed to silence the room, as if the very air itself bowed to her icy demeanor. Tian Zhu, who had been on the verge of a retort, abruptly turned away, his anger seemingly evaporating under her gaze.
Fashionably late, as always.
I couldn''t help but grin, all while trying to ignore the strange fluttery feeling in my stomach that popped up when I saw her.
She turned to me and Zhi Ruo, giving us both a nod of acknowledgment. I waved to her casually, and Zhi Ruo politely smiled back. It seemed she was warming up to us. Being in her good books would be a boon for the both of us, I suppose.
Not that I''d need it! They''ll look at this in the future and be glad they have a connection to me, the great Kai Liu!
The door swung open to reveal an official; his tired eyes scanned over the room.
"Please, follow me. The introductions will soon begin."
One by one, the contestants began to follow the official out of the lounge. As Tian Zhu and Fang Xiang walked past us, they shot us dirty looks. I shrugged it off, but couldn''t help but notice Zhi Ruo''s grip tightening on the handle of his cart as he maneuvered his pill furnace. We walked at the back, the heavy cart slowing him down.
"Guess we didn''t get much sleep these past nights, huh?" Zhi Ruo said, his voice strained from the effort.
"Yeah," I replied, feeling the fatigue settling in my bones. "But we''ve made it this far. No point in complaining now."
Zhi Ruo chuckled. "True. Just promise me one thing, Kai."
"What''s that?"
"Let''s give it our all. No holding back, even if we''re up against each other."
I smiled, appreciating his sportsmanship. "Agreed. Good luck, Zhi."
"Same to you."
We reached the edge of the arena, where the official stopped us. The air was thick with anticipation, the roar of the crowd just beyond. The official turned to Jingyu Lian, bowing slightly.
"Miss Jingyu, you''ll be the first to enter the arena."
She nodded, stepping forward with her usual grace. As she walked into the open arena, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause and cheers. Ma Hualong''s voice boomed over the noise.
"Hailing from the Whispering Wind sect! The Lian clan''s alchemical genius who stands as the favourite to win the title! JINGYU LIAN!"
He motioned to her, indicating the circular arena divided into five distinct areas, each representing one of the elements. Forming a pentagram, around the circle, chains were tethered to the floor and raised all the way to the ceiling. From here, I could see a massive array of ingredients, and my mind was already whirling with potential recipes I could work with.
"Miss Jingyu, please choose the element you''d like to begin with."
I watched nervously as she surveyed the arena. I prayed silently, desperately hoping she wouldn''t pick the one I had my eyes on. But to my dismay, she announced her choice with a confident smile.
"I will begin with the wood element."
She began to make her way to the green section of the arena, symbolizing wood. Just before stepping into her designated area, she turned and looked directly at me. Then, with a playful wink, she proceeded to her spot.
I cursed under my breath, unable to hide my annoyance. "Shouldn''t have been so nice to her if she was gonna be like this," I muttered to Zhi Ruo, who laughed softly.
Before I could dwell on my frustration, the official called my name. My heart pounded as I stepped forward, the noise of the crowd now a distant hum in my ears. The bright lights of the arena blinded me for a moment, but I forced myself to focus.
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"Representing the Verdant Lotus Sect, the young alchemist who revived the ancient Essence Extraction technique, once used by the legendary Master Li Tao to usher in a new era for alchemy! Kai Liu!"
A wave of dizziness washed over me. Why did my introduction feel ten times louder than Jingyu Lian''s? My knees wobbled slightly, but I steadied myself, forcing a confident grin onto my face. From the stands, I heard two distinct voices cut through the roar.
"KAI! YOU''VE GOT THIS! I''VE BET THE HOUSE ON YOU!" Tao''s boisterous cheer nearly knocked me off my feet.
"Don''t let him down, Kai!" Bai Hua''s voice, though quieter, was filled with warmth and encouragement. "I''m rooting for you, even if I did put my money on Jingyu Lian!"
I chuckled, shaking my head at their antics. A quick scan of the crowd revealed Feng Wu, his face beaming with pride, Tianyi perched on his shoulder, and a flash of white and blue from Windy tucked in his sleeve. A surge of warmth spread through my chest. I wasn''t alone in this.
Ma Hualong''s voice brought me back to the present. "Kai Liu, please choose your starting element."
With my ideal option taken, I had no choice but to go for the next best thing.
"''I''ll choose water."
Settling down by the blue-themed section of the arena, I gave Jingyu Lian a small frown.
"Really? Choosing the wood element?"
She smiled mischievously. "I don''t know what you''re trying to say. Weren''t you the one talking about facing each other fairly?"
The others placed themselves among the other elements after they were introduced. Tian Zhu chose fire, Fang Xiang chose metal, and Zhi Ruo chose earth.
"Contestants will have thirty minutes on each section to create as many pills as they can, before moving clockwise to the next section!"
I glanced over. After water, I''d arrive at wood, fire, earth, and then metal. In my mind, the round had already begun, as I worked to analyze all the ingredients and plot out which ones to make, in what order, and how to incorporate them into my strategy for the rest of the round.
"This goes on until each contestant has had the opportunity to work at each elemental section once! There are only a limited amount of ingredients, so they must choose carefully! From there, the second phase begins!"
"Tidecaller Vine, Bubblebloom Algae..." I muttered to myself, seeing all the familiar ingredients from past rounds at our disposal.
"The second phase will be a battle royale! All contestants must compete to knock each other out of bounds, or render them unable to continue using the concoctions they''ve prepared! There will be absolutely no martial arts or cultivation techniques allowed during this trial!"
The crowd roared like thunder, and all I felt was a burning sense of determination. This was it. All my hours spent at the Million Books Pavilion, my tribulations at the Verdant Lotus sect...they would all come to a conclusion right here.
"BEGIN!"
Using the storage ring, I spawned the Two Star Pagoda Pill Furnace right beside me on the floor, because of its sheer size in comparison to regular pill furnaces, I couldn''t place it on the table.
But because of that, it meant I could create larger batches of pills, and due to it''s special nature, I''d be able to start two different recipes at the same time!
Before the Pill Furnace even properly settled onto the ground, I was seizing ingredients I''d need.
The first one to begin with were Ice Obsidian, Purple Eel Venom, and mint. The first two were potent ingredients, but also the hardest to prepare. I''d begin with them first. Like second nature, my Refinement Simulation technique activated, showing me the most efficient way to my goal, telegraphing my future moves while being mindful of the time.
I immediately went to preparing them, crushing the obsidian into a fine dust, extracting the mint essence, and diluting the venom. The water element section was full of versatile ingredients.
Within minutes, I had the ingredients ready and placed them into the bottom layer of the pill furnace. My fingers danced over the intricate knobs and dials, adjusting the condensation valves and infusion conduits to ensure the perfect balance of qi flow. I activated the dual-tiered alchemical reactor, a mechanism that allowed simultaneous processing of different concoctions. I thanked the heavens this pill furnace came with a manual, otherwise I never would''ve figured out how to use it.
With the lower chamber set, I quickly selected a second set of ingredients for the top layer: Lotus Nectar, Aqua Vine Essence, and Celestial Ice Crystal. The nectar and vine essence would form the base, providing a stable foundation.
Time was ticking, and the pressure was on. I imbued the furnace with my qi, kickstarting it to life.
Only simple recipes, cut down to the barest essentials, could be created within the thirty-minute limit, and even then, only two or three products at most. I needed to be efficient and precise.
Preparing the second set of ingredients, I was able to focus fully on the task, dependent on my Refinement Simulation technique''s ability to keep an accurate track of the time. The process was meticulous, requiring me to extract the nectar from the petals, concentrate the Aqua Vine Essence, and finely crush the ice crystals.
As I carefully placed the prepared ingredients into the top layer of the furnace, I assessed the progress of the first batch of ingredients. The mixture was melding perfectly, the solution gradually reaching the ideal consistency. I gave it a final stir to ensure uniformity before transferring it to the upper layer where the liquid would condense and clump into powder.
I meticulously cleaned the bottom half of the furnace to prevent contamination.
Unlike the other rounds where quality and perfection was prioritized, efficiency and quantity was the name of the game. It didn''t matter how our products were preserved if we were going to use them immediately.
Glancing around, I noticed the other contestants adopting a similar philosophy. Jingyu Lian moved with a fluid grace, her hands a blur as she handled the ingredients with practiced efficiency. Tian Zhu and Fang Xiang, though usually meticulous, were cutting corners wherever possible, their faces set in determined expressions. Even Zhi Ruo, usually methodical, was speeding through his preparations.
Returning my focus to my furnace, I placed the second set of ingredients into the now-cleaned lower chamber. Steam began to escape from the holes throughout the furnace, signaling the start of the second recipe''s transmutation process. My hands blurred as I managed both layers, adjusting the heat distribution and qi flow to maintain optimal conditions for both batches.
Minutes passed in a blur of concentrated effort. Finally, I removed the top layer, revealing a turquoise clumpy powder. It wasn''t my best work, but it would serve its purpose as Serpent''s Breath Smoke Bombs.
With those completed, I turned my attention back to the second recipe. When the mixture reached the right consistency, I extracted the potion and poured it into neat vials. This concoction would be an Elixir of Rapid Growth, designed to make plants sprout and grow instantly. I''d need to grab certain ingredients in the wood zone for this elixir to be of any use.
Seeing a bit of time left, I decided to prepare another useful concoction. I grabbed some Slickweed Kelp, its glossy leaves shimmering under the arena lights. I used my hand to draw out an orb of pure essence and transfer it into two vials. The distinct memory of using it to dissolve Duan Jian''s Breath Gel was still fresh in my mind, and I knew it''d come in handy as a perfect counter to the other contestant''s concoctions.
"Time''s up! You have one minute to move to the next zone!"
Pressing the storage ring to my furnace, I drew it back into place before moving quickly into the wood section. I sighed, seeing how Jingyu Lian took the most valuable products already. But my strategy was adaptable, and I re-adjusted accordingly.
Wood was the most versatile among the elements, capable of poisons, healing elixirs, and even restrictive traps. It didn''t matter what she took, I could make potent mixtures even with the most basic of ingredients here.
I grabbed the most intriguing ingredient in the section, the Sundew plant.
Its vibrant crimson stalks and glistening, dew-drop covered leaves pulsed with a deceptive beauty. Its predatory nature was evident in the sticky droplets that adorned its foliage, each a tiny trap waiting to ensnare unsuspecting insects. I plucked a handful of the leaves, careful to avoid the delicate hairs that triggered them.
With practiced efficiency, I harvested the droplets, their viscous texture clinging to my fingers like honey. I then combined them with a mixture of crushed bark from the Ironwood tree, known for its sturdiness, and essence of the Moonpetal flower, renowned for its binding properties. The resulting concoction swirled in my mortar, a mesmerizing blend of crimson, brown, and silvery-white hues.
I poured the mixture into several small vials, sealing them tightly. This concoction, while incomplete, would serve as the foundation for a powerful immobilizing agent. Once exposed to heat, the mixture would rapidly harden, encasing its target in a shell akin to stone, effectively restricting their movements. I''d need to find an appropriate ingredient to pair with this in the fire zone.
A sly grin spread across my face as I imagined the chaos this would cause in the arena. The thought of my rivals struggling to break free from my sticky, hardening concoction filled me with a sense of mischievous glee.
"Ten minutes left!" Ma Hualong''s voice boomed through the arena, jolting me back to the present.
I quickly surveyed the remaining ingredients, my mind racing to devise additional concoctions to bolster my arsenal. The wood zone offered a plethora of possibilities, but time was of the essence.
Among the remaining ingredients, one caught my eye¡ªthe Runny Nose Orchid. A grin tugged at my lips. This unassuming plant had a potent pollen that could send anyone into a sneezing fit. It was a hidden gem, often overlooked due to its mundane appearance, but I knew its true potential.
Carefully, I harvested the pollen, using a delicate brush to collect the fine grains. The Runny Nose Orchid required gentle handling, as any rough movement could release the pollen prematurely. I carefully plucked the orchid''s delicate stems, their faint floral scent tickling my nose. A sudden, uncontrollable urge to sneeze bubbled up within me. I froze, holding my breath, my eyes watering.
"Not now," I hissed under my breath, praying that the urge would subside.
I cautiously resumed my task, my movements slow and deliberate as I brushed the pollen grains into a small vial. The grains shimmered like golden dust, their potency almost palpable. With a sigh of relief, I sealed the vial, the urge to sneeze finally receding. With the pollen safely collected, I turned my attention to another key ingredient, the Horsetail Pine. Extracting its resin would provide the perfect binding agent for my concoction.
I worked swiftly. Using a small blade, I carefully made a shallow incision in the bark. A thick, amber-colored resin slowly seeped out, filling the air with a pungent, piney aroma. The combination of the pollen and resin would create a powerful irritant. I placed the resin and pollen into the top layer of the furnace, adjusting the heat and qi flow to ensure a smooth blend.
The Tormenting Pollen Mist was my goal. It would diffuse into the air, creating a cloud of fine particles that would induce uncontrollable sneezing fits in anyone unfortunate enough to inhale it. Perfect for disrupting the concentration of my competitors.
Finally, the furnace signaled the completion of the process. I carefully removed the top layer, revealing a fine, golden powder. I quickly funneled it into small vials, sealing them tightly. The Tormenting Pollen Mist was ready.
"Oh, I almost forgot!"
I looked at the shelves, looking for any interesting ingredients to use with my Elixir of Rapid Growth. I seized a small bottle of Entangling Vine seeds.
"Time''s up! Move to the next zone!" Ma Hualong''s voice echoed.
My palms were sweaty, as I hurriedly packed up my tools and ingredients, slipping the vials into my storage ring. The fire zone awaited, and I couldn''t afford to waste a single moment.
108. Wit & Wuxing
I should have expected the scarcity of ingredients as we moved through the zones, but not to this extent. My frustration mounted as I glanced around the fire zone, struggling to think of useful combinations to make. The once plentiful and varied array of ingredients had been picked clean by the people before me, leaving behind only the most basic components.
¡°Come on, there has to be something,¡± I muttered to myself, sifting through what little remained. The embers of determination flickered, but the reality of the situation doused them. Most of the potent fire-based ingredients like the Sunfire Blade Grass were gone.
I ended up only being able to make simple Ember Pills. While useful for a quick boost in fire-related alchemy, they lacked the potency and versatility of the more advanced concoctions I had hoped to create; the fire zone had the most potential in regards to offense, after all. I hoped it would be enough to pair with the Sundew Sticky Bomb...
Looking at it optimistically, the others were likely suffering from the same conundrum.
When Ma Hualong''s voice echoed through the arena, signaling the time to move to the earth zone, I felt a mix of relief and trepidation. The earth zone, like the fire zone, had been thoroughly ransacked. Only the most mundane ingredients were left, the treasures of the earth long gone.
I rummaged through the remnants, pulling out what little I could find from the shelves. Activated Charcoal was plentiful, its dark, gritty texture a stark contrast to the vibrant, rare ingredients I had hoped for. With little choice, I decided to focus on detoxification pills. Though not flashy or overtly powerful, they could serve as a counter to the potential poisons my competitors might use.
As I ground the charcoal into a fine powder and began the refinement process, I couldn''t help but think.
''This is it. The best I can do here is prepare for defense.''
The clock ticked mercilessly, each second a reminder of the time slipping away.
The process was monotonous, my hands moving on autopilot. Grinding, mixing, refining ¨C a dance I knew all too well. Finally, the detoxification pills were complete, small black orbs that could neutralize toxins and poisons. They were functional, practical, but hardly the game-changers I needed.
¡°Time to move to the next zone!¡± Ma Hualong''s voice cut through the air once more. I exhaled deeply, a mix of relief and anxiety. Gathering my tools and ingredients, I moved quickly to the final zone ¨C metal.
To my surprise, the metal zone was relatively untouched compared to the others. I glanced around, my eyes widening at the sight of the various metallic ingredients still available. I grinned, seeing that I could work with a familiar ingredient ¨C pyrite.
I grabbed it, along with bottles of liquid mercury.
Elder Wei Lian''s demonstration during the pyrite round had been a masterclass in exploiting the unique properties of the metal, despite his unsavory reputation. His ability to harness the power of pyrite left a lasting impression on me. Pyrite, with its explosive potential, could be a game-changer if used correctly.
"Alright," I muttered, my eyes gleaming with anticipation as I snatched a hefty chunk of pyrite from the table, its metallic surface glinting under the arena lights. "Let''s see what kind of havoc we can unleash with this."
Beside the pyrite, I arranged a small mound of finely-ground iron ore powder, its dark hue starkly contrasting with the shimmering gold. Then, with a delicate touch, I lifted a vial of Oreweaver Spider Silk, its contents preserved in a viscous, silvery liquid. Spun from the metallic threads of a peculiar arachnid that thrived off metallic substances, it was renowned for its extraordinary strength and near-instantaneous hardening properties ¨C the perfect complement to my volatile concoction.
The final touch, liquid mercury, would infuse the concoction with its transformative essence. Its fluidity and ability to bind with other metals held the key to the reaction I sought ¨C a transmutation that would turn a simple thrown vial into a rapidly expanding, viscous trap, solidifying upon contact into a prison as unyielding as iron.
Unlike my Sundew Sticky Bomb Elixir, this metallic snare would resist ordinary solvents once the pyrite combusts and the liquid hardens. It was a risky gamble, a dance with the unpredictable nature of mercury and pyrite, but the potential reward was too great to ignore.
It was a risky, untested recipe, but my Refinement Simulation Technique would guide me, predicting the shortcomings and potential of the mixture.
With them placed before me, the technique worked reflexively. My mind''s eye projected possible outcomes, guiding my hands as I worked.
"...Here goes nothing," I whispered. "Let''s start with these."
The chaotic noise of the arena faded into the background as I visualized the Two Star Pagoda Pill Furnace in my mind. It became a dynamic, three-dimensional space where ingredients interacted, merged, and transformed.
The iron ore powder and liquid mercury were the first. I adjusted the temperature slightly to ensure the mercury remained in its liquid state, maximizing its bonding properties without risking vaporization.
Next, I added the pyrite. This was the most delicate part of the process. Pyrite''s explosive nature introduced a volatile element to the mixture. I saw the concoction bubbling and threatening to destabilize in my simulation. With a quick move, I lowered the heat to a specific temperature that would prevent it from exploding.
To the crowd, it probably looked like I was methodically making the recipe, but in reality, every second was a battle against potential disaster. The pyrite slowly settled into the mixture, its energy contained but ready to be unleashed upon impact.
Finally, I introduced the Oreweaver Silk. Due to it''s unique property, my Essence Extraction skill worked on it the same way it has with other metals. I pushed continuously, forcing the essence to bend under my will and extracted it slowly into the palm of my hand.
The simulation showed the essence weaving through the liquid. I adjusted the heat once more, ensuring the essence fully integrated with the mixture.
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My hands moved with practiced precision, guided by the simulation. I could see the mixture was complete. It pulsed with a metallic sheen. I had to work fast to store them in the vials with an air-tight seal.
Upon feeling the bottles, still hot to the touch, I felt a surge of confidence. These would be a crucial item for the round.
"The first phase is OVER!" Ma Hualong shouted at the top of his lungs. "Look under your alchemical stations and you will find a leather belt with which you can secure all your concoctions with. Prepare yourselves!"
I hurriedly followed their instructions, taking out the leather belt from where they said it would be. It had multiple pouches and mini-pockets, each perfectly designed for alchemical vials. I slipped my vials into the slots, appreciating how they clicked securely into place. The larger pouches held my sturdier creations, while the smaller ones snugly fit the more delicate concoctions.
We watched the muscular men, each the same size as Ping Hai, begin pulling on the chains throughout the arena. Their muscles bulged and veins popped as they pulled downwards. The heavy clanking of metal echoed as the floor beneath us started to rise. The arena floor ascended high into the air, bringing us closer to the roaring crowd for a better view. I was now at eye-level with the crowd.
Ma Hualong, Elder Wei Lian, and Elder Mingmei stepped forward, slapping their palms down on the ground from three distinct points around the arena. A translucent barrier encased the crowd, shimmering with protective energy. Ma Hualong¡¯s voice boomed, cutting through the excitement.
¡°The second stage is set! Contestants will lose if they are knocked out of bounds and fall off the stage, get knocked out, or are otherwise made unable to continue. Feel free to use the surroundings to your advangtage! With that in mind, let the battle begin!¡±
The crowd¡¯s roar shook the Marble Jade Arena, the energy palpable. I tightened my grip on the newly prepared vials, feeling the weight of the moment settle on my shoulders as I off-handedly placed my pill furnace back in the ring.
Here we go.
I glanced left and right. To my left was Jingyu Lian. To my right was Fang Xiang. I stepped backward, allowing me to see both of them at once. My eyes snapped over to see Fang Xiang making his move.
But it wasn''t towards me.
Like it was pre-planned, Tian Zhu and Fang Xiang both struck at Zhi Ruo, throwing vials at him simultaneously. The man yelped and ducked for cover behind his pill furnace as fiery and icy explosions erupted around him. Tian Zhu''s concoction created a blazing inferno, while Fang Xiang''s released a burst of frost, the combination creating a volatile mix of steam and flame.
"Zhi Ruo!" I shouted, my heart racing as I saw him struggling to maintain his footing amidst the chaos.
Without hesitation, I sprinted towards them, my mind racing to formulate a plan. I couldn''t let them take my friend out so easily. As I closed the distance, Tian Zhu noticed me and sneered.
"Look who decided to play hero," Tian Zhu taunted, readying another vial.
Before he could throw it, a blast of icy mist struck him from the side, catching him off guard and freezing him in place momentarily. Jingyu Lian stepped forward, her presence commanding as she wielded her alchemical prowess with precision.
"You should watch your back," she said coldly, her eyes locked on him.
Fang Xiang called out in alarm, "Tian Zhu, fall back!"
Seizing the moment, I tossed my Serpent''s Breath Smoke Bomb at Fang Xiang. The pill broke apart with ease, releasing a thick, turquoise smoke that quickly enveloped him. He staggered back, coughing and waving his arms to clear the air, but the hallucinogenic effects were already taking hold.
As he struggled to regain his composure, I turned to Zhi Ruo, who was emerging from behind his pill furnace, his face pale but determined.
"Did you really think that I wasn''t prepared for you?" Tian Zhu said from afar, pouring a liquid that melted the frost covering his body. "It was your mistake for leaving the fire zone to me."
Flames licked at the translucent barrier protecting the crowd. Jingyu Lian''s frown deepened as she stared at the wall of flames created by the man.
I turned to Zhi Ruo. "Go! Deal with Tian Zhu!"
I remembered Zhi Ruo''s starting point. Earth. Each of the five elements reacted with each other in various ways, countering or strengthening one another. But one thing I knew for sure, was that Earth smothered Fire. Zhi Ruo was the perfect match against him.
Jingyu Lian began at Wood, she was at a direct disadvantage with Tian Zhu.
As though he grasped my intentions, he nodded firmly and moved forward.
But then I saw Zhi Ruo freeze for a moment, his eyes darting between me, Tian Zhu, and Jingyu Lian. Instead of immediately engaging, he placed his heavy pill furnace back onto his cart and began lugging it towards the chaotic battle zone.
''Is he planning to make pills in the middle of a fight?'' I wondered, momentarily confused by his actions.
However, my attention was quickly pulled back to Fang Xiang. Expecting him to be reeling from the hallucinogenic effects of my Serpent''s Breath Smoke Bomb, I was shocked to see him seemingly unaffected.
"Did you think your petty tricks would work on me?" Fang Xiang taunted, his voice steady and clear. He held up a small, shimmering pill before swallowing it. "Antidote for your little smoke bomb. Purple Eel Venom? Nice try, though."
I should''ve known he prepared some sort of counter to hallucinogens. After all, he was... Well, he''s a finalist. Of course he''d have one or two tricks up his sleeve.
"You seem surprised," Fang Xiang continued, a smirk playing on his lips. "Did you honestly think I wouldn''t be prepared for such a basic tactic?"
There was a long silence. He raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. "Honestly, Kai Liu, do you even know who you''re dealing with? Have you even bothered to learn my name?"
I blinked, caught off guard by his sudden outburst. "Uh... yeah, you''re Fang Xiang, right? You... er, made it into the top five during the second round. With the pyrite crystal that collects sunlight?"
He threw his hands up in exasperation. "That was Tian Zhu! Hold on a second! You barely even know who I am! We''ve been in this competition together for weeks, and you act like I''m some random passerby!"
A wave of guilt washed over me. I had to admit, I hadn''t paid much attention to Fang Xiang throughout the competition. He had always been somewhat of a background figure, overshadowed by the more flamboyant personalities of the other contestants. I just grouped him up with Duan Jian and his ilk.
Speaking of, what happened to him?
Fang Xiang continued his rant while I spaced out.
"¡ªDo I seem like some nameless extra to you? Some forgettable background character you can just throw a potion at and expect to win?"
"Look," I said, trying to appease him, "I didn''t mean any disrespect..."
Fang Xiang cut me off with a dramatic sigh. "But let me tell you, Kai Liu, I''m not just some side character in your little story. I''m a force to be reckoned with! I''m Fang Xiang, a finalist in the Gauntlet, not some nameless lackey! I have a backstory, motivations, even a secret family recipe for candied ginger!
"Listen," I said, trying to bring the focus back to the task at hand, "I''m not here to debate your role in some sort of story. I''m here to win."
Fang Xiang scoffed, his eyes hardening. "And you think you can win against me? A mere village herbalist who stumbled his way into the final round?" He flexed his hand, shattering the vial in his hand and allowing the mixture to cover his skin with liquid metal. "I''ll show you the true power of a seasoned alchemist."
I dropped another Serpent''s Breath Smoke Bomb, and he stayed in place.
"Fool! You think it''ll work on me twice?"
I tossed the Entangling Vine seeds down on the ground, waiting for the perfect moment. As soon as I saw his silhouette in the smoke, I hurled my Elixir of Rapid Growth down. The seeds sprouted instantly, snaking all around Fang Xiang''s body and immobilizing him. The thick vines wrapped around his limbs, tightening their grip with every passing second.
For a moment, I thought I had him. But Fang Xiang didn''t remain idle. He used his fists, now covered in liquid metal, to grasp the thorny vines and rip them off with brute force. Despite his efforts, the vines continued to grow rapidly, regaining their grip as soon as he tore them away.
"What did you put in this potion?" Fang Xiang growled, frustration evident in his voice.
Seizing the opportunity while he was distracted, I threw a vial of Slickweed Kelp Essence at him. The liquid splashed over his metal-covered fists, breaking down the liquid metal rapidly and rendering his defensive tactic useless.
Fang Xiang retaliated with a large orb that he launched directly at me. The orb shattered mid-air, breaking into shrapnel that blew me backward and left multiple cuts on my body. The cuts stung with a familiar burn¡ªpoison.
Gritting my teeth against the pain, I immediately consumed one of my Charcoal Essence Detoxification Pills. The effects were almost immediate, the burning sensation dulling as the pill worked to neutralize the poison in my bloodstream. I watched as the alchemist continued ripping the vines off him, albeit much slower with the pain of spiked vines piercing into his palms.
I hurled another potion while he was distracted, and the glass vial shattered into powder, releasing a warm yellow mist throughout.
"I don''t know how many times I need to tell you, poison won''t¡ª"
Fang Xiang sneezed, his eyes watering as he fell victim to the Tormenting Pollen Mist. He doubled over, sneezing uncontrollably, his face contorted in irritation and discomfort.
"Unfortunately, it''s not a poison," I said, a smirk tugging at the corner of my lips. "It''s much worse."
Fang Xiang tried to throw something at me, but his constant sneezing affected his aim, and the vial fell to the side, shattering harmlessly on the ground. Seizing the moment, I pulled out another vial, the one I created in the metal zone. I hurled it at him with all my might.
The vial exploded on impact, and the liquid expanded, covering Fang Xiang and the vines that bound him. Within seconds, the substance solidified, rendering him immobile. He struggled against the hardened mass, but his efforts were in vain.
"Curse you, Kai Liu!" he yelled, his voice muffled by the sticky substance. "This isn''t over!"
I couldn''t help but grin, a surge of adrenaline coursing through my veins. "Sorry, Fang Xiang," I called out, my voice tinged with mock sympathy, "but it seems your spotlight moment has come to an end. Try to be a bit less forgettable next time."
109. Trial by Fire (and Water, Earth, Metal, and Wood)
I took a moment to catch my breath, wiping the sweat from my brow. Fang Xiang was securely immobilized, his sneezing and cursing fading into the background noise of the roaring crowd. I quickly took a mental inventory of the potions and items I had used in the battle against him.
I still had two Serpent''s Breath Smoke Bombs left. The Entangling Vine seeds¡ªthose were all used up. Maybe I could find another plant or seed to pair with them in the wood zone.
"Two Slickweed Kelp Essence vials, three detoxification pills and one Tormenting Pollen Mist bomb left." I muttered quietly.
My concoction from the Metal zone, which I''d call the Binding Snare potion, worked beautifully. But I only had one left, so I had to use it at the most opportune moment.
All my Ember Pills and Sundew Sticky Bomb Elixirs were untouched.
Taking a deep breath, I scanned the arena.
The air crackled with elemental energy as Jingyu Lian and Tian Zhu clashed. Tremors rippled through the ground, followed by blasts of searing heat. She deftly wove through the chaos, throwing a volley of thorn-laden seedpods that sprouted into a thorny barricade to block the flames.
It would''ve been easy for me to intervene, but I wouldn''t squander my resources in this chaotic melee.
No, I would observe, learn, and strike when the iron was hot ¨C or rather, when the opponents were sufficiently weakened. This wasn''t cheating, just playing smart!
Like a phantom, I retreated to the edge of the arena, taking cover at the edge of the water zone, behind the alchemical station. A makeshift bunker offering a vantage point to analyze the unfolding chaos.
Tian Zhu clearly targeted her, his advantage fueling his aggression. He bombarded her with fiery pills, each one exploding into a miniature inferno that scorched the earth and tested her defenses.
Seeing how liberal he was, I wondered just how much those gloves from the vault improved his dexterity by. He was clearly responsible for ransacking the fire zone! It seemed as though all the pills he made were from there.
"Running away?! I expected better from you, Jingyu Lian!" Tian Zhu''s shout cut through the air.
My eyes were locked on Zhi Ruo, who had reached the battlefield, his pill furnace in tow. Instead of using it to make pills, he maneuvered it like a massive shield, its heavy metal surface deflecting Tian Zhu''s explosive attacks. His cart rattled with every blow, threatening to break at any moment.
"That''s cheating!" Tian Zhu bellowed, frustration clear in his voice. He threw another fiery pill at Zhi Ruo, but it exploded harmlessly against the sturdy furnace.
"Cheating?" The librarian called back. "It''s part of the surroundings. Adapt or get left behind."
The both of them looked to Ma Hualong for confirmation, allowing for a pause in the battlefield. Caught off-guard by their sudden attention, the man''s voice rang out from where he was keeping the barrier activated.
"The equipment from the vault brought by contestants is considered part of the surroundings and can be used freely. Continue the battle!"
Tian Zhu''s face twisted with anger, but he was forced to focus back on the fight. In his distraction, Jingyu Lian seized the opportunity. She hurled a vial to the ground, and from it, a dense cloud of silvery mist billowed out. He recoiled, coughing and spluttering as the mist enveloped him.
The sudden chill caused his flames to flicker and sputter, his movements slowing as a thin layer of frost began to form on his skin.
"Enough of this!"
Trying to reignite his attacks, I watched as the arrogant alchemist stepped out of the fire zone to escape the mist''s area of effect.
Right into Zhi Ruo''s path.
The librarian threw a vial with surprising accuracy, the glass shattering into harmless pieces against Tian Zhu''s chest. A liquid covered him, and a faint hum filled the air. Zhi Ruo lifted his cart with all his strength, tipping the pill furnace over until it started to roll slowly onto the floor.
I watched as Tian Zhu began drinking what I assumed was a detoxifying elixir.
He smirked at Zhi Ruo. Throwing another pill that sent him rolling on the floor, close to the edge of the arena. He scrambled up to his feet, breathless and disheveled. His expression, however, looked far from defeated.
"It''s not a poison, if that''s what you''re thinking."
Tian Zhu smirk faded. His clothes and body were being pulled towards the pill furnace, which was rolling faster than what should''ve been possible.
"That elixir contained Lodestone Mushroom powder. A neat ingredient that attracts metals towards itself."
His panic was palpable as he realized he couldn''t outrun it, no matter how hard he tried. Desperation set in, and Tian Zhu began to run, but his movements were futile. It was as if he was running in place, his legs churning but not gaining any ground.
The pill furnace, now a relentless iron juggernaut, rolled faster and faster, drawing him inexorably closer. Tian Zhu threw his several explosive pills at it in a last-ditch effort to stop its advance. The pills detonated in a series of fiery blasts, but the furnace remained unscathed, its thick iron shell impervious to his attacks.
His panic turned to sheer terror as the furnace closed in.
"AIIIEEEEE!"
With a final, desperate scream, Tian Zhu tried to leap out of the way, but it was too late. The pill furnace collided with him with a sickening crunch, knocking the alchemist out cold and sending the rest of his pills flying out of his belt. His limp body was dragged along the ground, finally coming to rest as the furnace rolled to a stop.
...Was he dead?
A small, pitiful moan from underneath the pill furnace confirmed he wasn''t.
I pumped my fist, a surge of adrenaline coursing through me. He had done it!
As I prepared to join the fray, something caught my eye.
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The mist from Jingyu Lian''s attack still hadn''t dispersed. It was spreading.
Zhi Ruo stood frozen in place, his smirk still plastered on his face but his eyes wide with alarm. His limbs were locked in place, as if an invisible force held him captive. A faint, sickly sweet scent wafted through the air, barely noticeable amidst the lingering smoke and the metallic tang of the arena.
Poison!
My mind screamed the warning, but it was too late. I''d already taken a breath, the cloying sweetness coating the back of my throat. My muscles stiffened, my movements slowing as the poison''s insidious tendrils snaked through my body.
Just then, a blur of white erupted from the cloud of smoke. Jingyu Lian, her face a mask of cold determination, walked towards my paralyzed friend.
"I apologize," She said. "But only one of us can move forward to be the victor."
She shoved him out of bounds with a light push.
My heart pounded in my chest as I watched Zhi Ruo tumble over the edge. Without thinking, I ran forward, desperate to save him. The competition no longer mattered; I just wanted to prevent my friend from falling. But my body didn''t cooperate. The poison coursing through my veins slowed my movements to a crawl.
Gritting my teeth, I took another detoxification pill, feeling its effects battle the poison''s grip. I reached the edge just in time to see one of the many muscular cultivators stationed below catch Zhi Ruo. Relief washed over me, but it was short-lived. I turned to her, my anger barely contained. After all we''d done, and she ambushed him like that!
"That was a low blow, even for you."
A flicker of remorse crossed her face, but it was quickly masked by her usual icy composure. "Don''t mistake my intentions, Kai Liu," she said, her voice cold and sharp. "I do not enjoy underhanded tactics. But I will not hesitate to use them if necessary. Especially when so much is at stake."
I knew what she was referring to ¨C the pressure from her family, the expectations of her clan, the weight of her own ambition. Even though she was right, a part of me rebelled against her pragmatism.
"I understand," I managed to rasp out, my voice thick with the lingering effects of the poison. "But don''t expect me to go easy on you."
A spark of challenge ignited in her eyes, a flicker of respect replacing the icy facade. "I wouldn''t have it any other way," she retorted, her voice ringing with conviction. "Prove your worth, Kai Liu. Fight me with everything you have."
The crowd''s roar echoed around the Marble Jade Arena, amplifying the tension between us. As the mist began to clear, revealing the battlefield, I tightened my grip on the vials in my hand. This was it. The final showdown.
I drew another breath, steadying myself. The chaotic sounds of the arena faded into the background as I focused on the task ahead.
Forget Zhi Ruo.
My friend, who had fought bravely and smartly, was now out of the competition. The unfairness of it gnawed at me, but I couldn''t afford to dwell on it.
Forget her, and all the complex feelings I''ve built up over time.
Jingyu Lian, with her cold determination and fierce resolve. There was a part of me that admired her, even respected her. But admiration had no place here.
Forget the guilt.
The guilt of wanting to win, of pushing past friends and foes alike. The nagging voice that told me I should fight fair, that I should be the hero. Heroes had no place in this arena.
I shed the weight of empathy, of righteousness. These were luxuries I couldn''t afford.
I was not a hero here, not a savior. I was an alchemist, a competitor determined to prove I''m the best. My opponent demanded my full attention, nothing less.
The muscular cultivators leapt onto the edge of the ring, their powerful frames easily lifting Fang Xiang free from his bindings with a liquid that dissolved the hardened mixture. He was still sneezing and cursing, his voice a hoarse rasp from the ordeal. Another cultivator tried to peel Tian Zhu off the pill furnace, but after a few failed attempts, he gave up and simply picked up both Tian Zhu and the pill furnace together, carrying the unconscious alchemist off the stage.
Ma Hualong''s voice boomed out, cutting through the noise of the crowd. "Only two remain! Kai Liu and Jingyu Lian! Prepare to fight for the title of Grand Alchemy Gauntlet Champion!"
I faced her, my heart pounding in my chest. Every muscle in my body was tense, but my mind was clear. I couldn''t afford any mistakes.
Without another word, we both sprang into action. I threw a Serpent''s Breath Smoke Bomb, the vial arcing through the air before shattering at her feet. Thick, turquoise smoke billowed out, enveloping her in its hallucinogenic haze. My eyes darted around, searching for an opening. My gaze landed on a pile of discarded branches, remnants of Jingyu Lian''s earlier attacks against Tian Zhu. A plan formed in my mind.
I whipped out the vial containing my last Elixir of Rapid Growth and hurled it towards the pile. The elixir shattered upon impact, the golden liquid seeping into the withered plants. Almost instantly, they began to writhe and twist, growing at an unnatural rate.
The smoke began to dissipate. The branches, now thick and gnarled, had formed a dense, impenetrable barrier around her, their thorns reaching out like hungry claws.
Jingyu Lian, however, was not one to be easily ensnared. With a fluid motion, she tossed a vial at the base of the vines. The glass shattered, releasing a pungent, earthy aroma. Almost immediately, the once-thriving vines began to wither and decay, their growth stunted by the potent concoction.
In the next instant, a glint of gold caught my eye. Her golden needles, glowing with a soft, ethereal light, flew through the air towards me. My heart leaped into my throat as I realized her intent. Was she trying to poke me full of holes?! Weren''t we forbidden from using techniques directly against one another?!
But instead of me, the needles struck with pinpoint accuracy piercing a vial on my belt.
The warmth of the Sundew Sticky Bomb Elixir spread across my lower body, the viscous liquid rapidly expanding, trapping my legs and making it incredibly difficult to move.
"Shit!"
Panic clawed at my throat. I was trapped, a sitting duck for her next attack. No time to panic, I reminded myself, my mind racing through the possibilities. Think, Kai, think!
I glanced around frantically, my eyes scanning the arena for anything, anything at all, that could help me. And then I saw it: a scattered pile of red and orange pills by the Earth zone. Tian Zhu''s concoctions, no doubt, spilled when he was dragged into the pill furnace.
A desperate plan sparked in my mind.
With a grunt of effort, I lurched forward, my trapped legs dragging behind me like anchors.
I was not going down without a fight.
Ignoring the searing pain in my legs, I took the last remaining Ember Pill I had. With a surge of adrenaline, I flung the pill towards the pile laying precariously on the floor, praying my aim was true.
The pill arced through the air. It landed amidst the pile, making a small burst of flames, causing a chain reaction.
A wave of heat washed over me as the fire spread, engulfing even the shelves of ingredients nearby.
Jingyu Lian stumbled back, her eyes widening in surprise. The sudden inferno created a barrier between us, buying me precious seconds. I seized the opportunity, channeling my qi into my legs, desperate to break free from the sticky prison.
My lower body strained against the now hardened sticky substance, but it was no use. Every punch, every desperate attempt to free myself only resulted in more frustration. My mind rushed through the available options.
Slickweed Kelp Essence? No, it was elementally incompatible with the Sundew Sticky Bomb. This was one of the few times the potent solvent wouldn''t have worked.
An idea sparked in my mind. With a deep breath, I reached into my storage ring and summoned my pill furnace. I hoped Ma Hualong wouldn¡¯t call foul on this. He did say we were free to use our tools in the final round.
The pill furnace materialized above the ground, dropping with a heavy thud. It landed precisely where the Sundew Sticky Bomb had gone off, the hardened elixir turning brittle from the sudden impact. The furnace shattered it into pieces, setting my legs free.
I staggered forward, the relief of movement surging through me.
With a roar of defiance, I launched myself forward, adrenaline pumping through my veins. She was distracted, her attention momentarily drawn to the raging inferno I had ignited. This was my chance.
I circled around the chaos, keeping to the shadows as I stalked towards her flank. I reached into my pouch, my fingers closing around the vial of Tormenting Pollen Mist. This was a gamble, but I had to take it.
With a swift underhand throw, the vial arced through the air, shattering against the ground near Jingyu Lian''s feet. The golden mist erupted, its particles swirling around her like a swarm of angry bees. She reacted instantly, covering her mouth and nose with her sleeve, but her eyes remained exposed.
A moment later, her eyes began to water, a telltale sign that the pollen was taking effect. She pressed on, her movements faltering slightly, but a sudden, uncontrollable sneeze ripped through her, doubling her over. The vial she had been about to throw clattered harmlessly to the ground.
This was my opening. I lunged forward, my remaining Binding Snare Potion held high. I hurled it at her, the metallic liquid splattering across her robes and the stone floor.
Her eyes widened in alarm as she felt the concoction begin to harden. She tried to break free, but the mercury-infused mixture was too fast, too strong. Within seconds, both legs and one arm were encased in a solid metal shell, her movements restricted.
I had the upper hand, and she knew it.
Her head was bowed down, and her shoulders were slumped with what I could only assume was exhaustion.
My eyes darted to the fallen vial Jingyu had dropped earlier. If I could reach it, I might be able to use its contents against her and win this.
But just as I was about to close in, she moved. In one swift, fluid motion, her free hand flicked out, sending a single golden needle flying straight towards me.
I barely had time to react. The needle struck me in the sternum, a sharp pain radiating through my chest.
I gasped, the impact sending me reeling backward. My muscles seized in place, and I could hardly breathe.
Was this the precise strike of an acupoint, or had she laced the needle with a swift-acting poison?
A sharp, localized pain radiated from the impact site, intensifying with every attempted breath. No burning sensation, no spreading numbness that might signal a toxin invading my system.
A desperate gasp tore from my lungs as pain radiated through my chest. I tried to move, to raise a hand, to throw another vial, but my body was a puppet with its strings cut. Helpless, I watched Jingyu Lian writhe against the metallic snare.
Hope flickered within me as I saw her struggles falter. We both ran out of concoctions, and she had nothing to break herself free from my trap with.
''Just a little longer,'' I thought, a desperate prayer echoing in my mind. ''Just a little longer until this paralysis wears off, and victory is mine!''
With a determined glint in her eye, she whipped her free hand out, a golden needle gleaming in the sunlight. It struck the fallen vial between us with a sharp ting, shattering the glass and releasing its contents into the air.
A pungent, acrid scent filled my nostrils, and a wave of dizziness washed over me.
My lungs burned as the toxin invaded, every muscle screaming in protest. But beneath the pain, a primal fury ignited.
''No!''
The word clawed its way up my throat, a silent roar of defiance.
I won''t lose! Not like this! Not after everything¡ª
Images flashed through my mind: Elder Ming''s smile, Feng Wu''s patient guidance, Li Na and Han Wei''s unwavering support. The faces of the people back home, their hopeful eyes filled with pride.
I can''t fail them.
I won''t fail them.
The world narrowed, a tunnel of fading light. I saw Jingyu Lian''s eyes, a flicker of something like regret in their depths. But it wasn''t enough. It would never be enough to extinguish the fire burning within me.
I have to win.
For them.
For me.
The last vestiges of consciousness flickered and died, the world consumed by darkness. But even as I succumbed to the poison''s embrace, a single, unyielding thought echoed in the void:
I will not lose.
110. A New Champion, A New Threat
With a quick flick of my wrist, I sent a golden needle towards the fallen vial. The glass shattered, releasing Ghost Willow extract into the air. I covered my mouth and nose, but Kai, paralyzed and unable to react in time, inhaled the potent toxin.
His bloodshot eyes widened in desperation as he struggled against the effects of the Ghost Willow. His breath came in ragged gasps, and I could see the intense effort he was putting into staying conscious. My heart hammered a rhythm of guilt and admiration. He had his reasons for wanting this, I knew. Reasons as strong as my own.
Then, with a final shudder, Kai''s eyes rolled back. His body went limp, collapsing like a puppet with its strings cut. A wave of respect, bitter and pure, washed over me. He was a warrior, this boy I''d foolishly underestimated. He''d saved my pride, ensured a fair fight... but I couldn''t return the favor. Not today. Too much hung in the balance.
Ma Hualong''s voice thundered through the arena, shattering the tense silence. "Jingyu Lian, victor of the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet!"
The crowd''s roar was a distant hum in my ears as I stood there, still trapped in the concoction Kai had made, with all but one limb free to move. My hair was a wild tangle, my lungs burned, my body ached. This victory had been ripped from the jaws of defeat, ugly and hard-won. But it was mine.
My gaze fell to Kai, a storm of emotions raging within. We had both given our all. Only one of us could stand at the end, and that one was me.
The weight of it settled heavily on my shoulders, a hollow victory. This was what I''d sacrificed for, fought tooth and nail to achieve. Yet, the taste in my mouth was ash, not honey.
Several invigilators converged on me, pouring a solvent over my bindings, their touch brisk and impersonal.
They moved with a practiced efficiency, their faces impassive. One of them turned to me, offering a hand to guide me to the medical wing.
I shook my head, denying their help. "I''m fine," I said, my voice steady despite the exhaustion clawing at me. "Take care of him first."
They nodded and carried Kai off the arena floor. I stood there for a moment, watching them go, before turning my gaze to the stands. My father was there, his expression unreadable. The memory of our conversation before the final round flashed through my mind, his insistence that I cheat to secure victory.
A wave of defiance surged through me, a mix of pride and bitterness.
''I proved myself today,'' I thought fiercely. ''Not just to the sect, but to you.''
I squared my shoulders, lifting my chin like a banner. The crowd''s cheers washed over me, a distant tide. As I made my way out, Elder Wei Lian materialized from the throng, a serpent in silken robes.
"Congratulations, Jingyu," he purred, the venom barely masked. "Fortune, it seems, favored you today."
My gaze locked with his, a silent duel of wills. "Thank you, Uncle," I returned, my voice glacial. "Let this victory solidify my claim to the Alchemy Pavilion."
A flicker of anger crossed his face, swiftly concealed. "We shall see," he replied, each word a carefully placed stone in a wall of doubt.
This was merely a battle won, not the war. Many trials lay ahead, but today had proven one thing: I would face him on my terms, unyielding and unbroken.
As I trudged to the medical hall, one of the invigilators accompanied me. My legs felt like lead, my body battered from the grueling round. The man opened the door for me, revealing the other contestants.
Tian Zhu lay unconscious on a bed, his face bruised and swollen. Fang Xiang sat upright, unable to see with his puffy eyes. Kai Liu was being attended to by a physician, battered and unconscious. Across the room, Zhi Ruo was awake and animated, discussing something with the healer tending to him.
The invigilator guided me to a corner of the room, where a screen provided a modicum of privacy. I changed into a fresh set of clothes, each movement sending jolts of pain through my weary body. Once dressed, I downed multiple potions, their bitter taste a small price to pay for relief. The physician attending to me was efficient, her touch gentle yet firm.
"Minor injuries," she diagnosed, her voice calm. "But you''re running low on qi. You should rest before the formal announcement."
I nodded, grateful for the care but eager to be alone with my thoughts. Silence settled over the room, a heavy blanket that muffled the outside world''s noise. I glanced at Zhi Ruo, who had settled at his bedside with a look of calm on his face.
Always, it had been so easy to step over the fallen, the loser, to see them as mere stepping stones on my path to greatness. But seeing him and Kai Liu... this was different.
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As I drew near Zhi Ruo, the memory of my ploy against him¡ªswift, opportunistic¡ªstung with a fresh guilt. He had defied Tian Zhu and Fang Xiang, just like Kai. A flurry of justifications for what I did sprang to my lips, but all that emerged were two words.
"I''m sorry."
His head lifted, surprise momentarily washing over his face. "If that''s for the unceremonious shove out of bounds, apology accepted," he said, a wry twist to his lips. "I thought I was going to die for a second."
His easy forgiveness threw me off balance. "Aren''t you... angry?"
A knowing gleam entered his eyes as his smile widened. "I''m not Kai. I understand ambition, the hunger for victory. A competition is a competition, after all." He leaned back with a sigh, a contented warrior sheathing his sword. "I came further than I ever dreamed, and I had no doubt I''d lose to you or Kai, one way or another. My goal was just to catch the eye of a sect or clan. Maybe with this showing, I''ll finally be recruited as an alchemist and provide a better life for my family."
His words, though meant to be comforting, only stirred the turmoil within me. Had I become so accustomed to viewing others as mere obstacles that I''d forgotten their humanity? A vision of my childhood flashed before my eyes, a memory I''d long buried beneath layers of ambition and self-preservation.
I saw myself as a young girl, clinging to my father''s robes as we navigated the bustling streets of Jianghu. He''d always warned me to be wary of strangers, to never let my guard down. The world, he''d said, was full of wolves disguised as sheep, eager to prey on the naive and trusting.
His words had become my mantra, a shield I held up against the world. I had learned to navigate the treacherous currents of court politics, to decipher the hidden meanings behind honeyed words and false smiles. I had become adept at building walls around my heart, allowing only a select few to glimpse the vulnerable core beneath.
Tian Zhan, my cousin and closest friend, was one of those few. He had been my constant companion, my confidant, the one person I could truly trust. His unwavering loyalty and genuine affection had been a beacon of light in my often dark and lonely path.
But even with Tian Zhan, there was a part of me that remained guarded, a part that feared betrayal and the pain it inevitably brought. This fear had driven me to excel, to become the best alchemist I could be, to prove my worth and secure my position in the world.
And yet, here I was, feeling a pang of remorse for my actions against Zhi and Kai. Their unwavering spirit, their refusal to resort to underhanded tactics, had shaken the foundations of my carefully constructed worldview.
The path ahead seemed uncertain, but one thing was clear: I could no longer walk it with a closed heart. The time had come to open myself to the possibility of trust, to embrace the vulnerability that came with genuine connection.
"...Have you received any offers so far?"
He seems surprised by my question, and hesitates for just a moment.
"Yes, I have. From the East River sect and the Sun Clan. Why?"
I mulled over his options. The East River was a middling sect, trying to bolster their weak pavilion with a promising alchemist. The Sun Clan have a reputation for using their alchemists as little more than tools. Given Zhi Ruo''s talent, both offers seemed like they were undervaluing him, likely due to his status and not coming from a famous family. He deserved better, and I could help with that.
I took a deep breath and made my decision. "Zhi Ruo," I began, my voice steady, "how would you feel about joining the Whispering Wind Sect''s Alchemy Pavilion? I can ensure that whatever offer you get, it will be double than what the others are offering."
He looked at me, stunned. "Are you joking?"
"I''m not," I replied firmly. "Your talent is undeniable, and I know the Whispering Wind Sect would benefit greatly from someone of your caliber. I can ensure you and your family are taken care of."
He studied me for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "I... I''ll need to consider it," he said finally. "I''ll let you know once I get the remaining offers. But thank you. Thank you so much."
I nodded, acknowledging his gratitude. "It''s the least I can do," I said softly. "You''ve earned it."
Just then, an invigilator called my name, signaling it was time to return. I gave him a final nod and left the room, my mind a whirlwind of emotions.
I reached the arena, the noise of the crowd washing over me like a tidal wave. I stood tall, lifting my chin as I stepped into the spotlight.
Ma Hualong stepped forward, his presence commanding attention as the crowd''s cheers began to die down. He raised his hand, and the arena fell into a respectful silence. His voice, deep and resonant, filled the space as he spoke.
"Jingyu Lian, by the authority vested in me by the Alchemy Association, I hereby crown you as the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet Champion. As the victor, you have earned the right to be mentored by the legends of the Alchemy Association."
He placed a hand on my shoulder, a symbolic gesture of recognition. I swallowed hard. This was a once-in-a-lifetime chance, not only to progress my skills but also to forge connections with the most powerful people in the province. It was a path to solidifying my future and the future of the Whispering Wind Sect''s Alchemy Pavilion.
But as the cheers gradually subsided, an unexpected figure stepped forward, causing a ripple of murmurs to spread through the audience. Ma Hualong''s face twisted in confusion and a hint of anger.
A man clad in black and blue robes, recognizable as the Silent Moon sect, approached with a confident stride. Four men flanked him, their gazes indifferent. But they emitted a certain pressure. One that I only felt from the likes of our Sect Leader.
What was going on?
The man pardoned himself for the intrusion, bowing slightly before addressing the crowd. "I apologize for the interruption, but I couldn''t miss the opportunity to personally congratulate Jingyu Lian on her astounding victory."
Ma Hualong''s face flushed with anger, his voice sharp. "Elder Jun, you cannot¡ª"
He raised a hand, cutting him off. "Ah, but I am no longer ''Elder'' Jun," he corrected with a smile that didn''t reach his eyes. "I am the Sect Leader of the Silent Moon Sect."
Gasps echoed through the arena as Elder Jun''s words sunk in. He extended his hand, revealing a storage ring that glinted in the light. "As the new Sect Leader, I wish to present Jingyu Lian with a gift, a token of our appreciation and admiration for her skills."
With a flick of his wrist, piles of rare ingredients and artifacts poured out, forming a small mountain of treasures at my feet. I narrowed my eyes.
This wasn''t just a congratulatory gesture; it was a blatant display of the Silent Moon Sect''s wealth and power.
The audience was in awe, whispers of amazement and envy buzzing around me. This ''gift'' was a statement, a reminder of their influence.
Elder Jun''s smile remained fixed as he continued, "I hope this suffices to show our admiration for your talents, Jingyu Lian."
Ma Hualong''s face twisted with barely suppressed rage, but Elder Jun pivoted smoothly, not allowing him the chance to interrupt. "What a fortunate coincidence it is," he said, his voice carrying effortlessly over the hushed crowd, "that the final results of the Gauntlet coincide with my appointment as Sect Leader. It feels like the stars themselves have aligned."
He gestured to the men standing beside him, their expressions unreadable. "Allow me to introduce the newly instated elders of the Silent Moon Sect. This is Elder Cheng, Elder Wei, Elder Xun, and Elder Fang."
I scanned their faces, trying to place their names, but they were unfamiliar. Each of them exuded an aura of power and authority, their presence almost overwhelming.
As I turned to look at the crowd, I caught sight of my father. His face had gone deathly pale, as if he had seen a ghost. His eyes were wide with a mixture of shock and something else I couldn''t quite identify¡ªfear?
"Elder Jun," I began, choosing my words carefully, "I am honored by your generous gift. The Silent Moon Sect¡¯s recognition is... unexpected but appreciated."
His smile remained fixed, but there was a predatory gleam in his eyes. "We believe in recognizing true potential. The future of the alchemical arts depends on talents like yours."
As he spoke, I couldn''t shake the feeling that this ''gift'' was more than it seemed¡ªa calculated move in a larger game. My father''s pallor, the unfamiliar elders, and Sect Leader Jun... it all pointed to something much bigger and more dangerous.
The tension in the air was palpable as Ma Hualong stepped forward, clearly struggling to maintain his composure. "This ceremony is about the achievements of our contestants," he said, his voice tight. "Let us not overshadow their hard work with politics."
Elder Jun¡¯s eyes flickered with amusement, but he nodded. "Of course, Ma Hualong. Today is indeed about celebrating talent and perseverance. Let us honor Jingyu Lian and all the participants."
As the crowd resumed their applause, I glanced once more at my father. His fear mirrored my own growing dread.
This victory, it seemed, was only the beginning of a much more treacherous journey.
111. The Agony of Almost
I blinked, the familiar lighting of my room at the Jade Harmony Inn slowly coming into focus. The warm, golden glow from the lantern on the nightstand cast gentle shadows across the walls, wrapping me in a comforting embrace.
For a moment, I wondered if it had all been a dream. If the intense battle, the desperate struggle, and the bitter defeat were mere figments of my imagination, conjured by my anxieties.
A fleeting hope stirred within me. Maybe I hadn''t lost. Maybe the final round was a hallucination, a product of my restless mind. I sat up slowly, the bed creaking beneath me. But as I moved, a sharp pain flared in my chest, drawing a wince from my lips.
I glanced down, pulling aside the loose fabric of my robe. There it was¡ªbruising at my sternum, dark and stark against my skin. The exact spot where Jingyu Lian''s needle had struck. Reality crashed down on me with a cold, unyielding certainty.
It was real. The final round had happened, and I lost.
I moved to sit up, each muscle protesting with a dull ache. The bruising on my chest, a stark reminder of Jingyu Lian''s final strike, sent a fresh wave of nausea through me. It wasn''t just the physical pain; it was the sting of failure, the bitter taste of what if.
What if I had reacted faster?
What if I had anticipated her last move?
What if I had simply been better?
The memories of the battle swirled in my mind, each detail etched with painful clarity: the searing heat of the fire zone, the acrid scent of the paralyzing poison, the chilling finality of Jingyu Lian''s gaze. I could still feel the poison''s tendrils coursing through my veins, leaving a trail of weakness and regret in their wake.
A heavy sigh escaped my lips, the sound echoing in the quiet room. I had come so far, fought so hard, only to be brought down in the final moments.
The door creaked open, and Feng Wu''s concerned face appeared. His eyes immediately fell on me, and his brow furrowed with worry. He stepped inside, the gentle click of the door closing behind him echoing in the quiet room.
"Kai," he began, his voice laced with a gentle concern as he approached the bedside. He reached out, hesitating for a moment before resting a comforting hand on my shoulder. "How are you feeling?"
I mustered a lopsided grin, the effort tugging at the corners of my mouth like a rusty hinge. "Eh, could be worse," I quipped, injecting a false cheeriness into my tone. "At least I didn''t get flattened by a runaway pill furnace like Tian Zhu."
Feng Wu''s lips quirked into a half-smile, but his eyes remained troubled. "That''s one way to look at it," he acknowledged. He paused, studying my face intently. "But honestly, Kai, how are you really holding up?"
I shrugged, the movement sending a dull ache through my bruised chest. My voice caught in my throat, and I had to clear it before I could speak. "Oh, you know, just contemplating a career change," I joked, the words tasting bitter on my tongue. "Maybe a professional pillow tester? I''ve had plenty of practice in the last few hours."
His expression softened, the hint of amusement replaced by a look of empathy.
"Kai..."
"It''s fine, Feng Wu," I interrupted, forcing a laugh that sounded more like a choked sob. "I''m just kidding. It''s just a competition, right? No big deal."
I couldn''t fool him. He knew me too well.
He didn''t say anything, just nodded slowly, his eyes filled with understanding.
"I know it''s hard. You gave it everything you had. Sometimes, that''s all we can do."
As he spoke, he gently set down Tianyi, who fluttered her blue wings and settled on the edge of the bed, sending waves of concern through our link. From his sleeve, Windy slithered out, the pure-white serpent curling around Feng Wu''s arm before making his way toward me.
"Spend some time with them," Feng Wu said, his voice softening. "They''ve been worried about you too."
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Silence hung between us for a moment, heavy and oppressive. I could see the sympathy in Feng Wu''s eyes, the desire to say something that would make it all better.
But there were no words that could erase the sting of defeat.
"I''ll give you some time to work it out," he said finally, his voice soft. "Take the time you need. Process this. You''ll come back stronger, I know it."
"Thank you."
He gave me a small, encouraging smile before turning to leave. As the door closed behind him, the room fell into silence once more. I leaned back against the pillows, staring at the ceiling, my mind a tumult of thoughts and emotions.
Tianyi nuzzled my cheek, and Windy tightened his coil slightly, as if to offer comfort. I had lost. There was no denying that. But how I chose to move forward from this moment would define me more than the defeat itself.
I took a deep breath, trying to shift my focus away from the sting of loss. "Well," I murmured, forcing a smile, "looks like we have some free time. Maybe it''s a good thing. I can finally catch up on sleep, maybe even read a book that isn''t about alchemy or combat for once."
The two spirit beasts looked at me, listening to my words.
"Yeah, maybe losing isn''t so bad. I mean, I don''t have to deal with the pressure of being the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet Champion. No more expectations, no more eyes watching my every move."
I chuckled, but it was a brittle sound, cracking in the quiet room. "I can just... relax. Take it easy for a while. Go back to the village and expand the garden. I''d be able to build that greenhouse now."
But as I spoke, the words started to blur, the forced positivity crumbling under the weight of reality. My vision wavered, and I blinked rapidly, trying to clear the sudden haze. A single tear slipped down my cheek, followed by another, and then more, until they were streaming freely.
I brushed at them with the back of my hand, frustration bubbling up. "Damn it," I whispered, my voice breaking. "I was so close. So damn close."
The pain in my chest wasn''t just from the bruising anymore. It was deeper, a hollow ache that gnawed at my heart. The image of Jingyu Lian standing victorious, the cheers of the crowd ringing in my ears, replayed over and over in my mind.
I tried to tell myself it was just a setback, that I''d come back stronger. But the rationalizations felt empty, mere echoes in the vast chasm of my disappointment. The fight, the effort, the dreams¡ªall felt shattered, scattered like ashes in the wind.
For the first time in a long while, I allowed myself to simply feel. To mourn the loss, to acknowledge the pain. The path to healing, I knew, would be long and arduous. But it was a path I had to walk, one step at a time.
"I''ll get through this. Somehow. But right now... it just hurts."
In that moment, I allowed the grief to wash over me, knowing that only by facing it head-on could I ever hope to overcome it.
I stared dumbly at the pile of gifts and letters on my table. It was a mountain of silk, parchment, and gleaming metal.
"This... It''s all for me?"
Feng Wu chuckled. "There''s been a veritable flood since the final round, Kai. I''ve spent most of my time fending off well-wishers and merchants eager to shower you with their wares." He gestured towards the teetering stacks. "I barely managed to keep them from turning our room into a bazaar."
I reached for one of the letters, my fingers trembling slightly. The envelope was made of fine parchment. With a careful hand, I broke the seal and unfolded the letter inside.
"Dear Kai Liu," I read aloud, "Congratulations on your remarkable performance in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet. We are in awe of your skills and potential. Enclosed is a gift¡ªa robe crafted from the finest silks. We hope you will keep us in mind for your future clothing needs. With admiration, the Golden Thread Textile Company."
I set the letter down and unfolded the robe. It was beautiful, made of rich, deep blue silk that shimmered in the light. The embroidery was intricate, depicting scenes of nature in silver and gold thread. I ran my fingers over the fabric, feeling the quality and craftsmanship.
"Why?" I asked, looking up at Feng Wu. "Why would they send me something like this? I lost!"
Feng Wu smiled, a knowing look in his eyes. "You''ve made quite an impression, Kai. Companies, sects, clans, they all see your potential, and know you''ll likely be a significant figure in the years to come. These gifts and favors are investments in your future."
I nodded slowly, absorbing his words. It made sense, in a way. My performance in the Gauntlet had put me on the map, so to speak. These companies were betting on my future success.
I opened more letters, each one offering congratulations and gifts. There were high-grade herbs from a renowned apothecary, a set of alchemical tools from a prominent merchant family, and even a small box of precious stones from a mining consortium. Each gift came with a letter, expressing admiration and extending offers of future collaboration.
As I sorted through the gifts and letters, one particular envelope caught my eye. It was sealed with blue wax in the shape of a crescent moon. My heart sank. I carefully broke the seal and unfolded the letter inside.
"Dear Kai Liu," I read quietly, the words dripping with subtle venom. "Congratulations on your impressive performance in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet. Despite your unfortunate defeat, your skills and determination were truly remarkable. It is with great admiration that I present to you a token of my respect. May it serve you well in your future endeavors."
I stared at the small beast core nestled in the envelope. My hands trembled with confusion and shock as I read the signature at the bottom.
"All the best... Sect Leader Jun of the Silent Moon Sect?"
Feng Wu''s eyes darkened as he took the letter from my hands, scanning its contents. "That man is playing mind games," he muttered.
I stared at the letter, trying to make sense of it. "Sect Leader? How is he calling himself a Sect Leader now?"
He shook his head, a deep frown etched on his face. "I don''t know all the details, but he interrupted the announcement of Jingyu Lian''s victory, declaring himself the new Sect Leader of the Silent Moon Sect. He introduced four new elders¡ªpowerful figures who we''ve never seen or heard of before."
A knot of unease tightened in my stomach. "What does this mean for us, Feng Wu?"
The second-class disciple sighed, the worry lines on his face deepening. "I''m not sure, Kai. It''s unsettling, to say the least. I''ve already sent a letter back to the sect informing them of the news, but I''ll likely have to head back soon to relay the information myself."
He looked at me, his expression softening. "Time is of essence. Before we leave, do you have any loose ends to tie up? Anyone you''d like to say farewell to?"
I took a deep breath, my mind racing through the possibilities. There were people I needed to see, gifts to buy, and farewells to make. But the thought of facing everyone, especially after my defeat, was daunting.
"Yeah," I finally said, my voice steadying. "I''ll spend today doing what I need to do."
Feng Wu nodded, understanding in his eyes. "Take your time, Kai. I''ll prepare for our departure in the meanwhile."
With a final nod, I gathered my resolve and left the inn, Tianyi perched on my shoulder and Windy coiled around my arm. The bustling streets of the city greeted me, a stark contrast to the quiet solitude of my room.
As I stepped into the crowded streets, whispers and stares followed me like shadows. People recognized me, their eyes filled with curiosity and admiration. It was an odd feeling, being acknowledged and even revered by strangers. But beneath their gazes, I felt a creeping sense of embarrassment. I had lost the Gauntlet. How could I face them with pride?
Swallowing my nerves, I walked quickly toward the market, my heart pounding with each step. The lively atmosphere was a welcome distraction, with vendors shouting out their wares and children laughing as they played. I needed to focus on something other than my own turmoil.
My first stop was the Azure Silk Trading Company. The building stood tall and imposing. I stepped inside, the cool air and rich aroma of exotic goods enveloping me.
112. From Ashes to Azure Silk
Decadent desserts, delicate pastries, and fragrant teas adorned every inch of the table. A servant carefully placed a cup of fruit wine and roasted quail skewers before me.
Tianyi fluttered her blue wings softly as she perched on the cup, while Windy slithered out of my sleeve and began his feast on the roasted quails.
I cleared my throat and addressed the man seated across from me. "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, Patriarch Wei Yong. Your hospitality is truly generous."
The man inclined his head slightly, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. His black hair, streaked with silver, flowed down to his shoulders, and a long, well-groomed beard framed his stern yet dignified face. He exuded an aura of authority and wisdom, every bit the leader of the Azure Silk Trading Company. My two companions didn''t seem to care, however, as they gleefully dug into the lavish meal before them.
"It is my pleasure, Kai Liu," he replied, his voice deep and measured. The man''s gaze lingered over Tianyi and Windy for a brief moment. "Your performance in the Gauntlet was nothing short of extraordinary. You have earned this meeting and more. It is rare to see someone with not just one, but two spirit beast companions. Their presence is a testament to your unique abilities."
I nodded, still getting acclimated to the opulence I was surrounded by. "They have been invaluable partners in my journey. I must also thank Lady Xiao-Yun for giving me this opportunity. Without her initial support, I wouldn''t be here today."
Wei Yong''s eyes twinkled with a hint of pride. "My daughter has a keen eye for talent. She spoke highly of you even before the Gauntlet. But your near victory was... unexpected, to say the least."
In my mind, I couldn''t help but marvel at how quickly my fortunes had changed. Lady Xiao-Yun probably thought I''d make it one or two rounds into the Gauntlet, but certainly not a hair''s breadth from winning it all. It was no wonder the Patriarch himself was now involved; I was no longer just a promising alchemist¡ªI was a high-profile one with potential for years to come.
"I appreciate her belief in me. I hope to continue proving myself worthy of that trust."
"Precisely why we''re here today," Wei Yong said, his tone shifting to a more business-like manner. With a subtle gesture, two attendants stepped forward, unrolling a scroll upon the table. "We are interested in extending our contract with you, Kai Liu. In light of your recent achievements, we propose a revised agreement with significantly improved terms."
I leaned forward, feigning interest while my mind raced. "Improved terms, you say? I''m intrigued. But before we delve into specifics, I''d like to discuss the potential value of my new concoctions. I believe they could significantly enhance your company''s offerings."
The Celestial Mind Illuminating Elixir and Ambrosia of Radiant Dawn were potent products, and I couldn''t let those recipes sit around collect dust when there was gold to be made!
Wei Yong''s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of calculation passing over his face. "Your new concoctions, you say? We are always open to innovation, but their value must be demonstrated."
"Of course," I replied smoothly, reaching for a skewer and taking a bite of the succulent quail. "But I believe a demonstration would be premature. After all, their true worth lies in their exclusivity."
A tense silence hung in the air as we assessed each other, a subtle battle of wills playing out beneath the veneer of pleasantries. Being the sole distributor of my products was an undeniable advantage for the Azure Silk Trading Company, and I needed to ensure they recognized the opportunity.
"Exclusivity has its price, Kai Liu. We are willing to negotiate."
"Speaking of exclusivity," I added casually, "I''ve recently established a close relationship with Bai Hua, the heir to Summer Sun Cosmetics. He''s expressed great interest in my work and has even suggested a potential collaboration."
Hopefully Bai didn''t mind me dropping his name in negotiations.
Wei Yong''s eyebrows rose slightly, his composure momentarily faltering. He recovered quickly, however, his smile returning, though a touch more strained. "Summer Sun Cosmetics is a respected establishment. Their interest in you is a testament to your talent."
"Indeed," I replied, my tone light yet pointed. "But I value loyalty and long-term partnerships. The Azure Silk Trading Company has been my first supporter, and I am inclined to honor that."
He nodded thoughtfully, a hint of respect in his eyes. "Loyalty is a valuable commodity, Kai Liu. And one we are willing to reward."
Things went smoothly after that. Clearly eager to prevent me from considering other offers, he agreed to even more favorable terms. By the end of our discussion, I had secured a steady supply of high-quality ingredients, ensuring I wouldn''t need to worry about growing my own to fulfill the contract. Additionally, I managed to negotiate an advance on my first shipment, providing me with the resources to start production immediately.
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With the ink barely dry on my lucrative new contract, I found myself at my next destination: Summer Sun Cosmetics.
The sun shone brightly over the city as I approached the grand entrance of Bai Hua''s flagship store. The elegant building was adorned with vibrant banners displaying their latest products. Inside, the scent of exotic flowers and essential oils wafted through the air, creating an atmosphere of luxury and refinement. I could see two familiar figures talking animatedly from afar.
"Tao Ren! Bai Hua!"
Ever the gracious host, Bai Hua greeted me with a flourish. "Kai, my dear friend! It''s a pleasure to see you again."
He then noticed Windy slithering around my arm, his eyes lighting up. "Ah! I finally get to see you in all your glory," he said with a flourish, bowing slightly to the serpent. "Your scales are even more magnificent than I imagined. What a treat to have you all grace this humble establishment!"
Windy flicked his tongue out in what seemed like a pleased gesture, while Tianyi fluttered her wings excitedly. My friends gathered closely to admire them. It had taken so long for them to meet, despite me having talked their ears off about them whenever we shared drinks.
Tao Ren, standing beside him in his usual soot-stained attire, let out a hearty laugh. "Humble? This place is anything but humble, Bai Hua. I''m just here for the free samples. A blacksmith''s got no need for such frivolities."
The perfumer chuckled, playfully swatting the larger man''s arm. "Nonsense! Even a master of metal deserves a touch of luxury. Besides, I''ll give you both generous discounts."
I raised a hand, a sly smile playing on my lips. "A discount? How generous of you, Bai Hua," I drawled, pulling out a stack of money slips bearing the prestigious Azure Silk Trading Company seal. "But fear not, my friend, for this young master''s coffers overflow with riches. A mere discount would be an insult to my wealth!"
Tao Ren''s eyes widened as he whistled low. "Looks like someone''s been busy," he remarked, eyeing the stack of money slips with a mix of awe and amusement.
"Very well, Kai," Bai Hua said, his smile genuine. "If you insist. But allow me to offer you our most exclusive line of products."
He gestured towards a display of shimmering bottles and jars. I couldn''t help but feel a surge of pride. I had come a long way from the humble village herbalist, and my success in the Gauntlet had opened doors I had never dreamed of.
As we made our way through the shelves overflowing with luxurious cosmetics and skincare products, we chatted about our future plans. Tao Ren spoke animatedly about his recently acquired permit to open a smithing shop in Crescent Bay City, his eyes alight with excitement as he described his plans for the forge and the weapons he would create.
"I''ve always dreamed of having my own shop," He said, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. "This city is the perfect place to start."
Bai Hua nodded in agreement, subtly applying perfume around his neck and wrists. "And Summer Sun Cosmetics is expanding as well. It''s a lot of work, but I''m excited for what''s to come."
I listened, nodding along, but my thoughts drifted to the recent negotiations. "I''ve secured a new contract with the Azure Silk Trading Company, and I''ll be expanding my shop back home to include a greenhouse. It''s going to be an expensive project, but one I''ll be able to afford now."
Tao Ren clapped me on the back. "That''s fantastic news, Kai! You''ve earned it."
As we continued our shopping spree, I couldn''t help but think about a certain librarian.
"Where is Zhi Ruo?"
"Last I heard, he''s in negotiations to join Whispering Wind Sect''s Alchemy Pavilion. He''s likely discussing the terms right now." Bai Hua explained.
A pang of sadness hit me. "I doubt I''ll catch him before I leave the city. Still, I''m sure our paths will cross again."
After tallying up my purchases, I handed over a money slip from the Azure Silk Trading Company, its value far exceeding the total cost. The perfumer accepted it with a flourish, presenting me with a small bag of gold as change.
"Is that everything, then?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement as he gestured towards the several boxes of luxurious goods. I placed them in the storage ring, alongside my pill furnace.
I glanced at the ring, a silent thank you to Guowei Wang for the invaluable gift. "One last stop," I replied, a cryptic smile playing on my lips. "But thank you both for the excellent company and your, ahem, generous discounts."
With warm farewells and promises of future revelry exchanged, I made my way towards the towering edifice of the Alchemy Association.
Inside, the atmosphere was as I remembered¡ªserious and focused, with alchemists of various ranks going about their business. I made my way to the front desk, where a young clerk looked up, her eyes widening slightly as they took in the serpent coiled around my arm and the butterfly fluttering above my head.
"Good day," I greeted her, holding out the talisman Guowei Wang had given me. "I''m here to see the vault-keeper."
Her surprise quickly turned to deference. "Of course. Please, follow me."
She led me through a labyrinth of dimly lit corridors, the air growing cooler with each step. We passed several guarded doors, the stoic cultivators posted outside each one giving me curious glances. Finally, we reached a familiar, ornate door, guarded by the person I wanted to see.
Guowei Wang stood in the doorway, his face breaking into a warm smile as he recognized me. "Kai Liu!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine delight. "It''s good to see you again. Tell me, did you win the Gauntlet?"
I shook my head, a pang of disappointment returning. "No, I didn''t. But I came here to say goodbye before I return home and to thank you for all your help." I touched the storage ring on my finger, a gesture of gratitude for his invaluable gift.
Guowei Wang waved away my thanks, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Think nothing of it, young friend. A mere trinket for a rising star. But tell me," he leaned in, his curiosity piqued, "what are these two delightful creatures accompanying you?"
As if on cue, Tianyi flitted down from my shoulder, executing a graceful loop around the vault before landing on Guowei Wang''s outstretched hand. Windy, not to be outdone, uncoiled from my arm and slithered onto the old man''s desk, his iridescent scales shimmering in the dim light.
The two chased each other around the vault, their playful antics echoing through the otherwise silent chamber, I regaled the vault-keeper with tales of their adventures and unique abilities.
The conversation lulled for a moment as Tianyi and Windy''s games filled the silence. I took another sip of the fragrant tea, appreciating the warmth it spread through my chilled limbs.
"Guowei," I began, a curiosity sparking in my eyes, "what do you do to pass the time here? Surely guarding a vault can''t be all that exciting outside of the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet."
A chuckle rumbled in his chest. "Ah, you underestimate the allure of solitude. Besides, who says guarding a vault can''t be interesting?"
He gestured towards a stack of worn books tucked neatly beneath his desk. "These old friends keep me company. Philosophy, history, poetry¡ªthey offer endless worlds to explore."
I leaned forward, intrigued. "Philosophy, huh?"
"The mind is as vast and valuable as any treasure, young alchemist. And just like any treasure, it needs to be nurtured and expanded."
I nodded in agreement. "Speaking of books, I''ve been looking for a gift for Elder Ming, he''s my mentor from back home. He''s an avid reader, and I thought a few new novels might be a nice surprise."
"What kind of novels?" Guowei Wang inquired.
"He''s quite fond of Liang Feng''s work," I replied. "Stories of cultivators embarking on epic quests, facing mythical beasts, and uncovering ancient secrets. I''ve been searching high and low, but I haven''t had any luck finding them."
I had been passively searching this entire time. But it was surprisingly difficult to find the genre. Most book shops only offered non-fiction. And the ones who did offer fiction, they tended to be... unique.
''The Peasant Who Stole the Demonic Senior Disciple''s Heart... I''ll never forget it.'' I thought quietly, feeling a chill go down my spine.
A flicker of recognition crossed his face. "Liang Feng, you say? That''s quite a specific request."
"Yeah! I''ve been looking everywhere! I even went to this place called the Scroll and Tome, and it definitely wasn''t-"
He interrupted, coughing into his fist. "Perhaps I can be of assistance. There''s a small publishing house in the Old Pine District, about four li west of here, called Wandering Wind Press. They specialize in Liang Feng''s works."
"Really? Thank you for letting me know, Guowei! I''m curious, though... do you read Liang Feng''s novels yourself?"
Guowei Wang''s smile turned enigmatic. "Let''s just say," he replied, leaning back in his chair, "I have a unique perspective on the author''s work."
113. Seeing Beyond Sight
"Well, this is the place."
My destination was a small, unassuming building at the end of the street. Its wooden fa?ade showed signs of wear, the paint peeling in places, and the signboard above the door swayed gently in the breeze.
Wandering Wind Press, it read, the letters faded and chipped, giving it a look of quiet dignity. Despite its disrepair, there was something inviting about the place.
I pushed open the creaky door, the bell above jingling softly to announce my arrival. The scent of old paper and ink greeted me, wrapping around me like a familiar embrace. The interior was dimly lit, casting long shadows that danced on the walls. Shelves filled with books lined the walls, their spines displaying titles in elegant calligraphy. The smell of ink and old paper was strong, mingling with the faint scent of incense burning in a corner. A small window allowed a beam of sunlight to filter through, illuminating motes of dust floating in the air.
An old man with ink-stained sleeves and closed eyes stood behind the counter. His movements were slow but precise, each action deliberate and careful.
"Good day," he greeted me, his voice soft yet clear. "How may I assist you?"
"I''m looking for Liang Feng''s novels. I was told this was where I could acquire them."
"Ah, Liang Feng," the old man said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "A popular request. You''ll find his works on the second shelf to your left. Please, take your time."
I nodded and moved towards the indicated section, my eyes darting over the spines of the books. Familiar titles caught my eye, bringing back memories of late-night reading sessions: Storm Sage Chronicles, A Journey to the North... But there were also new titles, ones I hadn''t seen before. As I held the books in my hands, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. These stories had been my companions during countless lonely nights, their characters my mentors and friends. Now, as I stood on the brink of a new chapter in my own story, I felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
Renegade Insanity? That sounds fun, I''ll give it a try!
"You have quite the collection here," I remarked, pulling a few books off the shelf to examine them more closely. The other shelves were laden with cultivator tales and similar works of fiction, but under different authors.
"Thank you," he replied, inclining his head slightly. "We strive to offer the best selection for our patrons. Liang Feng''s works are among our most cherished. His tales have a way of capturing the imagination, don''t they?"
I nodded, a smile spreading across my face. "They do indeed. His stories have been a source of inspiration for me. I grew up on the Storm Sage Chronicles."
"Really? What''d you like about it?"
"Mostly how he portrays the wanderer''s lifestyle," I said, my eyes scanning the shelves. "The way cultivators are written so colorfully, their journeys filled with both adventure and hardship. It''s like you can feel the wind in your hair and the dust under your feet."
The old man nodded, a soft smile on his lips. "Liang Feng does have a talent for bringing his characters to life."
I pulled another book from the shelf, its cover depicting a lone figure standing atop a mountain peak. "Though, I do wish some aspects were more accurate to real life," I added with a slight shrug.
"Oh? Do elaborate."
"Well, for one thing," I said, turning to face him, "I''m an alchemist, and in the series, alchemy is portrayed as this ritualistic, almost mystical practice. In reality, it''s much closer to cooking. Precise measurements, careful timing, and knowing your ingredients. It was quite a shock when I entered my first alchemy class expecting grand incantations and found myself chopping herbs and stirring cauldrons instead."
The old man let out a soft chuckle. "Ah, but a good storyteller must capture the essence of a craft, not merely its mundane details. Perhaps Liang Feng sought to convey the transformative power of alchemy, not its precise methodology."
That''s true. Capturing every nuance would be quite the task.
"And then there are the characters," I continued, my tone lightening. "These are great stories, but sometimes the characters make really dumb decisions. In the second book, when Elder Xiaochun got tricked by the Storm Sage, why would a cultivator who''s lived for centuries fall for such an obvious trap?"
The old man paused, a hint of surprise and amusement on his face. "Perhaps it''s a reminder that wisdom doesn''t always guarantee good judgment."
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I chuckled, nodding in agreement. "You have a point there. Wisdom and judgment don''t always go hand in hand."
I remembered Elder¡ªSect Leader Jun. It was hard calling him by his actual title now. Even though he was a ruthless man, I still managed to one-up him in our wager. Nobody was invincible.
With a pile of new books, I carried it over to the counter. Windy poked out of my sleeve, flicking his tongue out curiously. Tianyi fluttered in circles over the man''s head, our emotional bond flowing with waves of curiosity. The shopkeeper didn''t react.
"I''ll take these."
The old man carefully accepted the stack of books, his fingers moving deftly over the covers and spines, as if reading the titles through touch. It was then that I noticed the precision in his movements, the way he placed each book down with exacting care.
"Ah, a fine selection," he remarked, his tone appreciative. "You have good taste."
I watched him, and my suspicions were confirmed¡ªhe was blind. The old man''s eyes remained closed as he worked, his other senses seemingly heightened to compensate.
He named the total, which was surprisingly reasonable considering the number of books I had chosen. I reached into my pocket and pulled out a gold piece, handing it to him.
"Here, this should cover it. Keep the change as a token of appreciation for continuing to produce Liang Feng''s works."
The old man accepted the gold piece with a gracious nod. "Thank you, young master. Your generosity is much appreciated. Enjoy your reading, and do come by again. We update our catalogue frequently."
As I turned to leave, I couldn''t help but wonder.
How could a blind man read and know the characters from Liang Feng''s novels so well when he was unable to see?
I shook my head. That was a mystery for another time, I suppose.
Once outside, I took a deep breath, the fresh air a welcome contrast to the musty interior of the shop. I looked down at the books in my arms, feeling a sense of excitement and nostalgia. Liang Feng''s tales had been a part of my life for so long, and now I had new stories to dive into.
"Elder Ming''s going to be excited!"
The sky was beginning to darken, and soon, I''d have to meet up with Feng Wu. There was no telling what would happen if I was caught on my lonesome again.
As I walked, I checked over my mental list. I''ve gotten gifts for everybody back home, said my farewells to my new friends and acquaintances.
I''ve handled all my loose ends.
My mind flashed back to a certain blue-eyed alchemist, and I shook my head quickly.
"There''s no need. We don''t know each other like that, anyway..."
I ignored the weird, fluttery feeling in my stomach as I continued to the inn. There, I saw Feng Wu waiting outside with the cart and horses. He noticed me approaching and smiled.
"Did you get everything you need?"
I nodded, pointing to the ring on my finger. "All here. At least it won''t be too heavy of a load on the horses."
"Make sure to check the weight it can carry. It''s usually marked on the inner diameter. It''ll refuse to work past that."
I took off the ring and saw it clearly marked. Five shi, huh? About the weight of five people. The pill furnace alone was likely more than half the ring''s capacity, so it was fortunate I finished my shopping within the designed limit. The thought of lugging that thing around without this was daunting.
We entered the inn for one last time, making sure we didn''t leave anything before handing the keys to the front desk.
I lingered at the inn''s entrance, my gaze sweeping over the familiar surroundings one last time. The bustling streets, the vibrant market stalls¡ªCrescent Bay City had been my home for the past few weeks, a place of trials and tribulations, of triumphs and defeats. A mere moment in time, but it was here that I had forged friendships, honed my skills, and faced challenges that pushed me to my limits.
A bittersweet pang tugged at my heart as I thought of the friends I was leaving behind.
A gentle hand on my shoulder pulled me from my reverie. "Ready to go, Kai?" Feng Wu''s voice, warm and reassuring, broke through the silence.
"Yes," I replied, my voice a bit husky. "I''m ready."
We climbed onto the cart, Tianyi settling comfortably on my lap while Windy coiled around my arm. As the horses pulled us away from the inn, I couldn''t help but take one last look at the city that had become a part of me.
White flakes landed on my nose as we departed.
"Hey, it''s snowing! I suppose this is our first official winter together, eh?"
I looked down at the two spirit beasts. Windy poked out my sleeve, looking upward with his large, blue eyes to observe the snowflakes, before retreating back into the warmth of my robes. Tianyi seemed to stave off the cold with her bluish aura, unaffected by the cold.
The cart continued to move forward amidst the snowfall. The crisp air was filled with the fresh scent of winter, each breath invigorating and clear.
It took a few hours to make our way back to the Verdant Lotus sect. The blanket of snow that surrounded the area stopped just at the perimeter of the compound.
It was nearing midnight when we finally arrived. We passed through the entrance, where the disciples guarding it greeted us warmly.
"You must be tired," Feng Wu said. "Go rest. I''ll put the cart away and report to the mission chamber."
With that, I bade him goodnight and walked towards the guest quarters. My room, untouched since my departure, greeted me with a chaotic jumble of books and alchemical notes. A reminder of the whirlwind of the past few weeks, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge and skill that had consumed me.
I set down Tianyi and let Windy slither out of my sleeve. I looked out the window and sighed.
What now?
The question echoed in the hollow chambers of my heart.
The Gauntlet was over. The fire that had fueled my every move, the relentless drive to prove myself, had dwindled to a mere ember. A sense of emptiness gnawed at me, a void where ambition and purpose once resided.
I closed my eyes, the image of Jingyu Lian''s triumphant smile flashing before me. The sting of defeat, the bitterness of falling short, still lingered, a persistent ache that refused to fade.
''If you remain as weak as you are, it''s only a matter of time before this Wind Serpent, and that butterfly, are taken away from you.''
Xu Ziqing''s words, once dismissed as mere provocation, now echoed with chilling clarity. I had been so focused on the Gauntlet, on proving my worth as an alchemist, that I had neglected the other aspects of my cultivation.
He was right. Even though I had grown immensely since I first stepped foot into the Jianghu, it still wasn''t enough.
My hand reached into my pocket, closing around the smooth, cool surface of the beast core. It was time to harness its power, to push my cultivation to new heights.
"Hopefully Elder Zhu doesn''t mind helping me with this."
The recipe to refine the beast core wasn''t complex, but it was resource-intensive. It was etched into my memory, and would require meticulous precision and unwavering focus. But I was no longer the hesitant novice I once was. I had the Refinement Simulation Technique, the Two-Star Pagoda Pill Furnace, and a burning desire to prove myself.
With a newfound sense of purpose, I settled into bed, eager to embrace the restorative power of sleep. But as I closed my eyes, my mind buzzed with restless energy. The thrill of the Gauntlet, the adrenaline rush of the battle, still coursed through my veins.
My body and mind, rewired from countless late nights of study and work, couldn''t find solace going to sleep without doing anything of note.
Sleep, it seemed, was a luxury I couldn''t afford. Not yet.
I sat up and crossed my legs on the bed, deciding to meditate. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, centering myself. The Crimson Lotus Purification Technique had always been a reliable method to calm my mind and focus my energies.
Time seemed to lose meaning as I continued to cultivate. The rhythmic flow of qi through my meridians was like a gentle river, washing away the remnants of doubt and fatigue.
| Your Qi has reached Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 2 |
114. Shared Strength, Shared Destiny
"Kai, have you been waiting here this entire time?"
The pre-dawn chill clung to my bones as Elder Zhu''s concerned gaze met mine.
I pulled my robe tighter, a futile attempt to ward off the cold. "Just wanted to catch you early, Elder," I replied, trying to sound casual despite the shiver in my voice. "Before the pavilion opens. I have a favor to ask."
His weathered face softened into a warm smile. "Come in, come in. We can''t have you freezing out here. Favors can wait until you''ve thawed a bit."
He ushered me into the pavilion, the warmth inside a stark contrast to the biting wind outside. Within minutes, we were seated in his office, steaming cups of tea cradled in our hands. The familiar scent of herbs and parchment filled the air, a comforting reminder of the countless hours I''d spent here.
"Now then," Elder Zhu began, taking a sip of his tea, "what brings you here at such an early hour? And don''t tell me it''s just for a friendly chat. I''ve heard about your performance in the Gauntlet."
I smiled, trying my best to hide the rising sense of embarrassment.
"Yes, Elder Zhu," I replied, my voice a bit hesitant. "I made it to the finals, but... I fell short."
The warmth from the teacup radiated into my hands, offering a small comfort against the chill that lingered from outside.
"I apologize," I continued, my gaze falling to the floor. "I know you had high hopes for me. I... I''m sorry I couldn''t bring back a victory with me."
Elder Zhu chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Kai," he said, his tone warm and reassuring, "there''s no need to apologize for giving your all. You made it further than any of us could have imagined. You represented the Verdant Lotus Sect with honor and skill, and that is something to be proud of."
He leaned forward, his gaze piercing through my facade of forced cheerfulness. "I know the loss stings but it''s in these moments of defeat that we truly learn and grow. Remember, Kai, the Gauntlet is just one step on your journey. There are countless more challenges ahead, and I have no doubt that you will overcome them all."
His words, filled with unwavering belief in my abilities... it was all too much.
Sometimes, my heart wavered. I wondered if rejecting the opportunity to join the sect as his apprentice was the wrong choice.
I clasped my hands together and bowed deeply.
"Thank you, Elder."
"Now, what was it you''d like to talk about?"
My eyes sharpened. I brought out the two beast cores in my pocket, each brimming with latent power. One earned through grit and wit, the other a gilded insult. Together, they represented a turning point, a crossroads.
"I need your help in refining these into an elixir."
The ingredients were laid out, a small fortune in herbs and essence: two Wind Serpent cores, a Breezesong Fruit, ginseng, and white peony root.
I took a deep breath, recalling the guide for refining beast cores into elixirs. There was a general rule-of-thumb to follow, a method honed over centuries of trial and error by countless alchemists. The first step was to pair the beast core with a compatible qi ingredient. In this case, the Breezesong Fruit, of the same element, was the perfect match for the Wind Serpent core.
"Beast core first, paired with its elemental twin," I muttered, selecting the Breezesong Fruit. A bittersweet reminder of my reward, used so soon.
Next came the ginseng, a stabilizing force in the concoction. Renowned for its ability to ground and support the body''s energies, it''d provide a stable base for the powerful qi released during the refining process.
Finally, the white peony root. This ingredient would make the elixir easier to assimilate into one''s dantian, ensuring that the refined qi could be smoothly integrated into my cultivation. The white peony root''s gentle properties were essential for creating a seamless blend, allowing the qi to flow effortlessly within me.
"The white peony root is added last, to make the elixir easier to assimilate into the dantian," I said, feeling a sense of calm wash over me. I knew the theory well, and now it was time to put it into practice.
"Are you ready?" Elder Zhu asked.
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"Yes, Elder. Let''s begin."
I activated my Refinement Simulation Technique, overlaying a vision of the process before me. In my mind''s eye, I saw the steps unfold, the ingredients interacting, the heat rising. I immediately noticed that the two beast cores, being of different sizes, could make the concoction more volatile. I''d have to be vigilant during the process.
My hands became more confident, more steady, and I began prepping the ingredients.
I started with the Breezesong Fruit, carefully slicing it and laying the pieces out. The ginseng came next, its roots twisted and strong, a grounding presence amidst the volatile energy. Lastly, the white peony root, its pale color a stark contrast to the other ingredients.
Elder Zhu''s watchful eyes followed my every move. "Your hands are steady, Kai. You''ve grown."
I allowed a smile to appear on my face as I worked. "Thank you, Elder. The Gauntlet has made working under pressure quite easy."
With the ingredients prepared, it was time to start the refining process. I placed the two beast cores into the large pill furnace, their power resonating within the chamber. Elder Zhu added a piece of Qinglian Jadeite, its green fire casting an ethereal glow.
The cores slowly began to dissolve under the intense heat. The Refinement Simulation Technique revealed a subtle imbalance. The cores, mismatched in size, would add volatility to the process.
"Careful now," I murmured, adjusting the heat. "A delicate balance..."
I didn''t dare to blink, taking in every detail of the mixture.
Maintaining a steady flow of qi into the furnace, I kept the temperature stable. The effort was demanding, but thanks to my recent breakthrough in cultivation, I could manage it. I eyed the arrays glowing faintly on the table, crafted by Elder Zhu to enhance stability. They offered a safety net, providing some reprieve if I were to make a mistake.
The Breezesong Fruit followed, a burst of vibrant green amidst the swirling energies. The ginseng joined the dance, its earthy essence grounding the volatile mix. Finally, the white peony, a whisper of purity amidst the chaos.
The green flames flickered, casting dancing shadows on the walls. The mixture in the furnace shimmered, a vibrant, harmonious blend of energies. I adjusted the heat one last time, ensuring the elixir reached its optimal state.
The real work began: the steady rhythm of stirring, the constant flow of Qi, the unwavering focus. My muscles ached, my mind thrummed with the effort, but a quiet determination settled over me.
"Almost there," Elder Zhu''s voice was a gentle encouragement.
The elixir glowed, a radiant beacon in the light of the Alchemy Pavilion, Fatigue warred with exhilaration, but I wouldn''t falter. Not now.
I could feel the strain in my arms and mind. Despite my cultivation breakthrough, the task was physically and mentally demanding. Hours passed, the ingredients gradually transforming within the furnace. The once distinct components became a homogenous mixture, now turning into a pure white liquid.
The liquid continued to glow brighter over time, its luminosity increasing as the refining process neared completion. The fatigue in my arms and mind was a constant companion, but I pushed through, knowing the reward was worth the effort.
"Keep going, Kai," Elder Zhu encouraged. "You''re almost there."
The glow of the elixir intensified, casting a radiant light that filled the room. Despite the exhaustion, a sense of accomplishment and anticipation fueled my efforts. The final stages required even more precision, ensuring that the elixir''s purity was maintained. My hands moved with practiced ease, the Refinement Simulation Technique guiding me through each step, predicting and correcting potential mistakes.
"The elixir is almost ready," I said, my voice steady despite the fatigue. "Just a little longer."
Finally, the mixture reached a state of perfect harmony. The glow of the elixir was blinding, a pure white light that seemed to pulse with energy. I turned off the heat and allowed it to cool, my body sagging with relief.
"It''s done," I announced, a tired smile spreading across my face. "We''ve completed it!"
The molten essence cooled, transforming into a shimmering elixir pulsing with a soft, white glow. Its purity was undeniable, credited to the meticulous care and precision I had poured into the refinement process. Carefully, I transferred the elixir into a large vial.
Elder Zhu approached, his keen eyes studying the vial intently. "An unusual color," he remarked, his brow furrowed in thought. "Most elixirs derived from beast cores carry a distinct tint, reflecting the creature''s elemental affinity. But this... this is pure white."
A pang of worry struck me. Had I made an error, despite all the failsafes and the Refinement Simulation Technique''s guidance?
"Is that a problem, Elder Zhu?"
He placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder, his gaze shifting to meet mine. "Not necessarily," he replied, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "In fact, it might be a sign of something quite extraordinary."
Before I could question his words, Elder Zhu''s hand reached out, his fingers gently brushing against my wrist. A warm energy flowed through me, a gentle probing of my qi. His eyebrows rose in surprise, his eyes widening slightly. "Kai," he said, his voice filled with wonder, "the purity of your qi... it''s remarkable. I''ve rarely encountered such a refined essence."
I blinked, my confusion mounting. "What does that have to do with the elixir, Elder?"
He withdrew his hand. "Your Qi, Kai, is exceptionally pure. It seems that during the refinement process, your own essence has influenced the elixir, purifying it beyond what is typically achievable."
A wave of realization washed over me. Elder Ming''s teachings, the Crimson Lotus Purification''s slow accumulation had borne fruit in the most unexpected way.
"My mentor taught me an important lesson on how to utilize qi to my advantage." I explained, a sense of pride swelling in my chest. "He recognized my limitations and encouraged me to focus on quality over quantity, refining my energy until only the purest essence remained."
Elder Zhu nodded, a genuine smile gracing his lips. "A wise approach," he said. "Your mentor''s insight is evident in your accomplishments. This elixir, Kai, is a testament to your dedication and unwavering pursuit of excellence."
Excitement bubbled within me, a potent mix of anticipation and nervous energy. "Elder Zhu, may I consume the elixir now?" I asked, my voice barely containing the eagerness I felt.
He nodded, his smile widening. "Indeed, Kai. You have earned this moment."
With a newfound sense of purpose, I swiftly cleaned the workspace, my movements efficient and precise. The Two-Star Pagoda Pill Furnace vanished back into my storage ring, leaving the room bathed in the soft glow of the lantern. I turned to Elder Zhu, bowing deeply.
"Thank you, Elder. For everything."
"Go on, then," he chuckled, a warm light in his eyes. "Fulfill your potential."
As I made my way back to my quarters, the vial of elixir clutched tightly in my hand, my thoughts drifted back to the moment I first acquired the beast cores. I had known from that moment that they held the key to a significant breakthrough, not just for me, but for my companions as well. This goal had driven me, a beacon of hope and determination.
Tonight, I would finally accomplish it.
As I entered my room, I was greeted by the familiar sight of Windy and Tianyi waiting patiently for my arrival. Their presence, as always, brought a sense of comfort and purpose.
"Tianyi, Windy," I called softly, drawing their attention. "I have a special gift for us."
Their curiosity was palpable, Tianyi fluttering her wings excitedly while Windy slithered closer, his tongue flicking out to taste the air. I set down the beast core elixir and retrieved three bowls, carefully pouring the prized mixture into each one.
"I know I''m still weak," I confessed, my gaze sweeping over my two spirit companions. I remembered Xu Ziqing''s words, and the night I was cornered by the Narrow Stone Peak disciples. I closed my eyes tightly, shaking off the memory.
"...And I''m determined to change that. Not just for myself, but for you, my friends. I want to ensure your safety, to give you the strength to protect yourselves¡ªand, hopefully, to protect me as well."
Tianyi''s emotional link pulsated with a warmth that melted away any lingering doubt. It was a wave of pure gratitude and unwavering trust. Windy nudged his snout against my hand, a silent acknowledgment of my words.
I picked up my bowl and held it out to them. "Cheers," I said, clinking my bowl with theirs before bringing it to my lips.
The elixir was cool and smooth, a rush of potent qi flooding my system as I drank. Tianyi unfurled her proboscis and WIndy placed his snout by the bowl, taking small gulps at a time.
The room filled with a soft, radiant light as the power of the elixir coursed through us, binding our fates even closer together.
115. When the Student Outshines the Master
If there was one thing Liang Feng''s novels were accurate about, it was the process of cultivation.
The elixir melted the instant it touched my tongue, releasing a burst of intense flavors¡ªbitter, with earthy undertones. It was a complex taste, like a blend of fresh herbs and potent spices, leaving a cooling minty sensation that quickly transformed into a subtle warmth as it slid down my throat.
But then, the warmth turned into a torrent. The initially soothing flow of qi transformed into a raging river, and then into a terrifying waterfall, cascading through my body with overwhelming force.
I gasped, feeling the sheer volume of qi flooding my system.
This was the essence of the Wind Serpent.
The qi surged in like an explosion, nearly suffocating me with its intensity. It was hard to comprehend how such a small amount of liquid could produce such immense energy.
¡®Focus!¡¯
I instantly abandoned all other thoughts, concentrating on my dantian and guiding the surging qi from the elixir.
It felt like a dam had burst within me. The rushing qi was violently expanding my meridians, forcing my qi circulatory system to widen and adapt. I trembled, feeling as though my entire body might tear apart under the pressure.
¡®Control it¡ carefully.¡¯
The qi began to move beyond my control, coursing through my meridians with a will of its own. Yet, rather than panic, I felt a surge of exhilaration. The immense qi was clearing away impurities and revitalizing my very essence. My meridians widened, even the smallest blood vessels and the most clogged pathways were being forced open and purified.
| Your Qi has advanced to Qi Initiation Realm - Rank 3 |
Every fiber of my being came alive with the fresh sensation of renewal.
I finally understood why such elixirs were so highly coveted. No amount of training could replicate this feeling. The elixir was doing what years of cultivation could not achieve, pushing my body and qi to new heights.
But...
¡®This is too much.¡¯
The qi continued to overflow within me. I couldn''t absorb it all at once; it needed to be guided and assimilated slowly over time. Greed would lead to disaster¡ªQi Deviation could result if I tried to rush the process.
Slowly, I gathered the swirling qi, directing it with careful precision. I cycled the energy throughout my body, ensuring a steady flow and preventing any stagnation or imbalance. With every breath, I utilized the Crimson Lotus Purification technique, purifying the energy within me, relieving the pressure.
Elder Zhu was correct; the elixir was incredibly pure, and barely reduced as I sifted through to ensure the qi was as pure as could possibly be. It was the ideal panacea for someone pursuing purity like me.
Finally, the storm calmed. I opened my eyes, feeling my body shake with the residual energy. I was filled with more qi than ever before, a sensation of boundless vitality and strength.
| Your Qi has advanced to Qi Initiation Realm - Rank 4 |
It felt like I could achieve anything.
I opened my eyes to see Windy in front of me with an empty bowl. It seems he had finished his share of the elixir, with significant changes to his status.
|
Name: Windy
Race: Wind Serpent (Aberrant)
Affinity: Wood and Metal
Cultivation Rank: Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 4
Special Abilities:
Tail Whip: Delivers a swift and powerful tail strike infused with qi.
Paralyzing Venom: Injects venom that temporarily paralyzes the target.
Moonlight Empowerment: Gains increased power and vitality under the moonlight.
Bond Level: 2 (Friend) - Windy has developed a closer relationship with you, displaying increased trust and willingness to assist in your cultivation journey.
Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.
|
He had went up by three stages! Incredible! Perhaps his compatibility with the Wind Serpent beast cores had something to do with it?
"Whoa," I mumbled, flexing my fingers experimentally. "I feel like I could punch a hole through a mountain."
I tilted my head as I continued to observe his face.
Snakes were relatively expressionless, but Windy''s eyes were uncharacteristically wide, his jaw hung open in shock. He was staring intently at something on the ceiling.
I followed his gaze and nearly jumped out of my skin.
Tianyi, normally a delicate wisp of blue, was now a radiant beacon, her wings blazing with an otherworldly light
What the hell?!
"What in the heavens?!" I yelped, scrambling back from the bed. "Tianyi, are you trying to blind us?!"
No response. Just more blinding light. It was like staring into the sun, except the sun was a giant, glowing butterfly.
"Windy, cover!" I yelled, grabbing the still-stunned serpent and diving behind the bed. "I think she''s about to go supernova!"
The air crackled with energy, and I braced myself for an explosion. But instead of a deafening boom, a gentle hum filled the room, growing louder and louder until it resonated in my very bones.
What was happening to her? Was this a breakthrough, or something more dangerous?
Seconds felt like hours as I waited, tense and ready for anything. The light seemed to reach its peak, an intense, almost blinding blue that filled every corner of the room. The energy in the air was palpable, a living force that pressed down on us.
Then, as suddenly as it had intensified, the light began to fade. I peeked over the bed, cautiously lowering my arm. Tianyi hovered in the air, her wings still glowing softly, but the intense brightness had subsided.
"Are you okay?" I asked.
She fluttered down gracefully, eye-level with me. Whatever had happened, it seemed to have been a positive transformation.
|
Name: Tianyi
Race: Mystical Butterfly
Affinity: Wood
Cultivation Rank: Essence Awakening Stage - Rank 1
Special Abilities:
Qi Haven: Transforms frequented areas into concentrated qi zones, boosting recovery and cultivation efficiency for those within its boundaries.
Moonlight Empowerment: Gains increased power and vitality under the moonlight.
Qi Siphon: Can absorb small amounts of qi from its surroundings to sustain itself.
Qi Transfer: Can imbue living beings with energy by transferring its qi, providing a small boost to those who receive it.
Qi Infusion: Infuse your body with qi, strengthening and making it faster.
Bond Level: 3 (Close Companion) - Tianyi has formed a deep bond with you, displaying loyalty and commitment to your shared journey. Her abilities may strengthen in response to your connection, and she will be more attuned to your emotions and needs. Additional abilities or enhancements may become available as your bond continues to grow.
|
"Holy¡ª"
I couldn''t help but gawk at her status.
Essence Awakening Stage?
''Kai...''
A small voice cut through my thoughts. So quiet that I thought it was a hallucination. I turned around to see if there was anyone there.
I froze, my eyes darting around the room. The voice had been faint, almost like a whisper carried on the wind. But there was no one else here¡ªjust me, Windy, and Tianyi.
''Kai¡ you can hear me?''
The voice was clearer this time, distinctly female. I whipped my head back towards the glowing butterfly.
This... This was unexpected.
¡°You¡¯ve surpassed most third-class disciples in qi reserves. And the energy radiating from Tianyi¡ it¡¯s on par with a first-class disciple.¡±
It was rather late now. The process of creating the elixir took the entire morning and afternoon, and my evening was spent consuming it. The heavens clearly favored me, as I had run into Feng Wu just as I had left my quarters to find someone to tell.
Feng Wu took the butterfly from my hand, and she happily perched on his finger, teeming with pride and joy. The glow around her had grown even stronger, the snowflakes melting before they even touched her.
"Her qi reserves have far surpassed mine," he said, almost enviously. "I¡¯m honestly a bit jealous."
I blinked, trying to process his words. "Wait, how is that possible? I split the elixir evenly between the three of us. I should be the one with the most impressive result, but I only went up two stages, while Windy went up three. And Tianyi... well, she''s in the Essence Awakening Stage now! What gives?"
Feng Wu chuckled, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Kai, have you really thought about how different your bodies are? You''re a human, Windy''s a snake, and Tianyi''s a butterfly. The same elixir isn''t going to have the same effect on such vastly different entities."
Oh. Right. Forgot to consider that in my musings.
"And don''t forget, your body doesn''t ingest all the elixir at once. Some of it has yet to fully integrate into your body."
Feng Wu¡¯s words hung in the cold air, and I could feel my thoughts spinning. "Wait, so you''re saying... there¡¯s more of the elixir¡¯s qi still in me?"
He nodded, his eyes studying me with that same knowing look. "Exactly. You should check how much of it is yet to be incorporated into your dantian. It¡¯s not uncommon for a powerful elixir like this to take time to fully integrate."
I closed my eyes, focusing inward. Almost immediately, I noticed a profound change. My qi circulatory system, which had once been weak and thin, was now robust and cycling energy continuously. The pathways that had felt fragile and narrow before were now wider and stronger, allowing the qi to flow more freely.
Then, I turned my attention to my dantian. What I felt nearly took my breath away. It had grown many times over in just a single night. The space inside was vast, like an ever-expanding reservoir of pure energy. But what really caught my attention was the residual energy surrounding it¡ªa thick, dense cloud of qi, still waiting to be fully absorbed.
When I opened my eyes again, I met Feng Wu¡¯s gaze. "I¡¯d say about thirty percent of the elixir is left, still slowly integrating itself."
He raised a brow, clearly intrigued. "That¡¯s odd. Most people aren¡¯t able to ingest that much qi in one session. Tianyi likely absorbed the qi all at once, not needing to integrate it slowly because her body is far more compatible with qi. She¡¯s a spirit beast, after all, and one that¡¯s used to cycling qi naturally. Her entire being is designed for it."
"And Windy?" I asked, looking down at the snake coiled around my wrist.
"Windy¡¯s situation is probably closer to yours. He¡¯s young, and while he¡¯s advanced rapidly, he might not have been able to integrate all the qi yet. His body will absorb it as he matures, so he¡¯s still got a lot of growth ahead of him."
I let out a breath I didn¡¯t realize I was holding. "I know... but it¡¯s still unbelievable how quickly things changed after that elixir. I mean, I¡¯ve spent months cultivating, and this... this was just one night."
The man nodded, his expression turning serious. "That¡¯s why I was so shocked when you tried to surrender the elixir after winning the wager against Elder Jun. And even more so when they sent another to you as a gift of congratulations for placing so highly in the Gauntlet."
I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at the memory, the absurdity of it all finally hitting me. "Yeah, I guess I didn¡¯t realize what I had in my hands back then."
I shook my head, the realization settling in. "So, how long does it usually take to fully integrate the rest of the qi?" I asked, curiosity laced with a hint of impatience. The idea of having all this untapped energy just sitting inside me was tantalizing.
He shrugged, his expression turning noncommittal. "It varies. It can take anywhere from a week to a few months, depending on your inclination and the amount of qi left. But," he added with a gleam in his eye, "there is one way to speed up the process."
My ears perked up at that. "How?"
"Through training, of course. By pushing your body and your qi to their limits, you can force the integration to happen faster."
I felt a grin spread across my face. "Are you willing to show me how?"
Feng Wu laughed, a deep, hearty sound that echoed through the chilly air. "I thought you¡¯d never ask. Come on, let¡¯s see what you¡¯re really made of, Kai."
116. Sparring & Spirit Beasts
Elixirs were stupid.
"Rooted Banyan Stance!"
I unleashed my technique once more, clenching all the muscles in my body and shielding myself with qi as Feng Wu struck.
The kick to the stomach pushed me back a couple feet, but I held my stance without flinching. I grinned at the second-class disciple.
"This changes everything!"
It had been an hour since we began my training to integrate the qi of the elixir into my dantian.
I couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the difference. The Rooted Banyan Stance, a technique that used to drain me completely after just two uses, was now something I could perform seven times with ease. The increase in my qi reserves was astounding, but what struck me even more was how quickly they replenished. During our hour of sparring, I¡¯d regained enough qi to perform another Rooted Banyan Stance, which I didn''t notice with my paltry reserves back then.
As I stood, breathing heavily but still full of energy, I glanced to the side. There, Tianyi and Windy were engaged in their own little sparring session.
Windy¡¯s serpentine body whipped around with surprising speed, his tail striking out like a coiled spring. But Tianyi, with her delicate butterfly wings, parried each strike with graceful ease. Her wings shimmered with a soft blue glow, deflecting his attacks as if it were the most natural thing in the world. The contrast between the two was almost ridiculous¡ªa powerful, aggressive snake against a fluttering butterfly¡ªbut Tianyi held her own, her movements fluid and precise.
Feng Wu¡¯s voice broke through my thoughts. ¡°You good to keep going, Kai?¡±
I shook my head, wiping sweat from my brow. ¡°I¡¯m out of qi to use any more of my moves. Rooted Banyan Stance drains a lot, even with my increased reserves.¡±
He nodded thoughtfully. ¡°That¡¯s normal, but you¡¯re not done yet. Here¡¯s what I want you to do¡ªinfuse your body with qi, all of it, until you bottom out. You need to push yourself to the very limit, just like muscles. They have to be worked until they¡¯re torn down to grow back stronger. Your qi works similarly.¡±
I took a deep breath and nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±
Focusing inward, I began to infuse my body with the remaining qi, letting it flow into my muscles, bones, and skin. With an unspoken signal, I launched forward to continue the spar.
¡°Qi infusion is about enhancing your physical abilities,¡± Feng Wu explained between punches. ¡°It makes you stronger, faster, and more resilient. But it¡¯s also inefficient compared to techniques like your Rooted Banyan Stance.¡±
I ducked under one of his punches, trying to process his words. ¡°I can feel that¡ The amount of ''defense'' I get from just infusing my body with qi versus using the stance is like night and day. But why is that?¡±
The man stepped back, lowering his fists. ¡°Let me show you.¡± He adopted a relaxed stance and threw a simple punch toward me, without using any qi. ¡°This is just a normal punch. No qi, no technique. Basic.¡±
He then infused his fist with qi, throwing another punch. This one was faster, stronger, and I could feel the difference in the air as it rushed past my face. ¡°This is a punch infused with qi. Notice the increase in speed and power.¡±
Finally, Feng Wu assumed a proper stance. His feet slid into position, his fist drew back in a precise movement, and his entire body seemed to coil with potential energy. When he released the punch, it drew up a small gust of wind, blowing my hair out of place as it landed right in front of me.
¡°That,¡± He said, straightening up, ¡°is the difference. The Rooted Banyan Stance is like that last punch. It¡¯s not just qi infusion¡ªit¡¯s a mix of technique and qi that makes it much more effective. The proper form, the right movements, they all work together to amplify the effect. It¡¯s the difference between just throwing energy at something and using it with purpose.¡±
¡°So, it¡¯s about refining the use of qi, not just relying on raw power?¡±
¡°Exactly,¡± Feng Wu said with a grin. ¡°Raw power is good, but refined power? That¡¯s where you start to see real results. And now that your qi reserves are larger, you can start focusing on honing that refinement.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but smile at the possibilities. This was the next step in my cultivation journey, and I was eager to see where it would take me.
The sparring continued, but it didn¡¯t take long before I truly reached the bottom of my qi reserves. Each punch, each kick became heavier, more sluggish, until I was barely able to lift my arms. My vision blurred, and I could feel myself teetering on the edge of exhaustion.
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¡°I suppose you¡¯re done,¡± Feng Wu said firmly, catching me as I stumbled.
I nodded weakly, too drained to respond. My legs wobbled, threatening to give out entirely, but Feng Wu supported me, guiding me back toward my quarters. The world seemed to spin around me, and it took everything I had just to stay conscious.
In the comfortable silence that settled between us, I mustered enough strength to speak. ¡°Thank you, Feng Wu. For everything. I know I wouldn¡¯t have gotten this far without your help.¡±
Feng Wu chuckled, his tone light. ¡°My contribution was minimal. You¡¯re the one who put in the effort, Kai. You¡¯re the one who¡¯s growing, who¡¯s pushing past your limits.¡±
I managed a tired smile. A taoist to the core. ¡°Maybe, but I still owe you.¡±
He waved it off with a grin as we reached my room. ¡°Get some rest. We¡¯ll pick this up later.¡±
¡°Yeah... see you,¡± I mumbled as I sank into my bed, the fatigue pulling me into a deep sleep almost immediately. I didn''t even get to register whether Tianyi or Windy followed me back.
As I drifted off, thoughts of how I could repay Feng Wu swirled in my mind. He had given me so much, and I wanted to find a way to show my gratitude, even if it was just a small gesture.
The darkness of sleep enveloped me, offering a reprieve from the exhaustion that had seeped into my bones. But it wasn¡¯t long before a soft, almost musical voice cut through the haze of my dreams.
''Kai¡ wake up.''
The voice was gentle but insistent, pulling me from the depths of my slumber. I woke up feeling more refreshed than I had in a long time. My qi reserves were brimming with energy, and as I checked my dantian, I noticed that the cloud of qi surrounding it had lessened slightly. Feng Wu¡¯s guidance had been right¡ªit was working. The integration of the elixir¡¯s qi was accelerating, and I could feel the benefits already taking root.
Something fluttered in front of my face, breaking me out of my thoughts. Tianyi, her wings shimmering with a soft blue light, hovered above me.
''Morning,'' she chirped, her tone light and cheerful.
I blinked, trying to reconcile the image in front of me. She was perched delicately on my nose, her tiny form seemingly more vibrant than ever. But it wasn¡¯t just her appearance that caught me off guard¡ªit was her voice. The fact that she could speak, that we could communicate like this now, made her feel... more human.
¡°Uh... morning,¡± I replied, my voice thick with sleep. I couldn¡¯t shake the strange feeling that had settled over me. It wasn¡¯t unpleasant, just¡ different. ¡°You can talk now, huh?¡±
Tianyi fluttered off my nose and hovered just above my chest. ''Yes. Does it bother you?''
¡°No, it¡¯s just...¡± I admitted, rubbing my eyes. ¡°I¡¯m still getting used to it.¡±
A tinge of relief sparked between us. It seemed that the emotional link didn''t dissipate, even with this.
As I thought about her newfound ability to speak, the word ¡°human¡± flitted through me. The memory of an old notification from when the Heavenly Interface first appeared resurfaced. I had almost forgotten about it.
| Your companion, Tianyi, cannot transform until she reaches Essence Awakening Stage - Rank 1. |
I stared at Tianyi, realization dawning on me. ¡°Wait a minute... does this mean...?¡±
She tilted her head, her wings fluttering slightly. ''Does it mean what?''
I sat up, suddenly wide awake. ¡°You can transform, can¡¯t you? Into a human form.¡±
There was a pause, and she stood still for a brief moment, as though searching for something.
''I... don''t know how. Maybe someday?''
I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what she would look like in human form. Would she retain some of her butterfly traits, like her wings? The thought was both intriguing and a little unsettling. She had always been a small, delicate creature, and imagining her as a human was... strange.
¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, Tianyi,¡± I said quickly, not wanting to make her feel uncomfortable. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do anything you¡¯re not ready for. But if you ever do figure it out, I¡¯d be curious to see it.¡±
Her wings picked up speed again as if the brief moment of pensiveness had passed. ''I¡¯ll think about it.''
I smiled at her, trying to put her at ease. ¡°Take your time. There¡¯s no rush.¡±
Feeling the need to change the subject, I glanced over to where Windy was coiled up, still sleeping soundly after the intense sparring session from the previous day. His breathing was slow and steady, and I could tell he was exhausted.
¡°I¡¯m going to be gone for most of the day,¡± I told Tianyi. ¡°Can you keep an eye on Windy? Make sure he¡¯s okay.¡±
She fluttered over to Windy, landing gently on his tail. ''I¡¯ll make sure he¡¯s safe.''
With that settled, I got dressed and made my way out of the room, leaving Tianyi to watch over Windy. As I walked through the quiet halls of the sect, my mind turned to the task I had set for myself today¡ªcreating a batch of the healing hydrosol I had developed before the Gauntlet. It was a simple but effective remedy, and I wanted to give something back to the sect that had given me so much.
As I carefully plucked the moss, I made sure to leave some behind, ensuring the patch would continue to thrive.
Before leaving, I took a moment to infuse the remaining moss with a gentle pulse of qi. The energy seeped into the plants, encouraging their growth and vitality. The moss glowed faintly in response, the qi working to replenish what I had taken. Satisfied that I had done my part to sustain the environment, I stored the harvested moss in my storage ring and made my way back to the sect.
I made my way to the Alchemy Pavilion, where I set to work extracting the essences from the moss in a private room. The process was familiar and soothing.
With the essences extracted, I wrote down the recipe, detailing each step with precision. I intended to give the recipe to Elder Zhu, so that the sect could produce the hydrosol on a larger scale and make it available to the disciples, sell it¡ªwhatever they wished to do.
I glanced upward, checking the position of the sun in the sky.
"They should be done their classes by now." I muttered to myself.
Waiting outside, I waited patiently as throngs of disciples poured out to attend different classes. Many of them tilted their heads to acknowledge me, and I responded in kind. Two familiar figures came out, shouting in jubilance.
"You''re back?!"
Han Wei and Li Na threw themselves at me, and I caught them with ease.
"I arrived yesterday, had some loose ends to tie up. But now, this young master has returned! Stronger than ever!" I posed, flexing my biceps to show my physique. It wasn''t anything like Ping Hai''s but I could still feel the difference. The strength in my limbs, the way my qi pulsed with energy just beneath the surface¡ªit was all there, even if it wasn¡¯t visible to the naked eye.
Han Wei raised an eyebrow, a skeptical grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "You¡¯re looking pretty much the same to me. You sure you¡¯ve grown, Kai?"
Li Na playfully jabbed me in the ribs. "Yeah, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve been slacking off while we¡¯ve been training our butts off!"
I chuckled, shaking my head. "I promise, I¡¯ve grown¡ªmaybe not in a way that¡¯s easy to see. But trust me, I¡¯ve come a long way."
Her teasing smile softened into genuine curiosity. "How did you do in the Gauntlet, anyway? We haven''t heard anything; it''s hard to get information from outside the sect."
I hesitated for a moment, the memory of the Gauntlet finals still fresh in my mind. But I didn¡¯t want to dwell on it too much. "I came in second place," I said, trying to sound nonchalant. "Lost to Jingyu Lian in the finals."
Their eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, there was silence as they processed what I¡¯d just said.
"You¡¯re kidding, right?" Han Wei finally blurted out, his voice a mix of disbelief and admiration. "Second place?! You went up against someone from the Lian family and made it that far?"
I shrugged, a small smile tugging at my lips. "Yeah, it was close, but she got the better of me. But that¡¯s not the only thing I brought back from the Gauntlet."
Li Na leaned in, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Oh? What else did you get?"
I reached into my storage ring, feeling a surge of excitement as I prepared to show them what I had gained. "Let me show you."
117. Surprise, I Leveled Up!
Their reactions were priceless.
After pulling out the Golden Bamboo seeds from my storage ring, I could barely contain my grin as Han Wei and Li Na tilted their heads at the small, unassuming seeds in their glass display. I explained my quest to revive the long-lost species, and how I¡¯d been entrusted with their cultivation. The way their eyes widened told me all I needed to know¡ªthey were impressed.
But the real fun began when I brought out the Two-Star Pagoda Pill Furnace. The moment it appeared, I could see the curiosity in their expressions, but that curiosity quickly shifted to something else as I tried to explain the nuances of its operation.
¡°See, the furnace is designed with a dual-layer qi compression system that allows for more precise temperature control during refinement,¡± I began, my enthusiasm barely contained. ¡°And the thousand-page manual it came with is crucial for understanding the full range of its capabilities¡ª¡±
Their eyes glazed over almost immediately.
I tried not to laugh as they nodded along, clearly lost somewhere around the mention of ¡°dual-layer qi compression.¡±
Li Na shot Han Wei a glance and he just shrugged, looking just as bewildered.
I sighed, deciding to spare them further details. ¡°Basically, it¡¯s a really advanced pill furnace. Way more efficient than anything I¡¯ve used before.¡±
¡°That¡¯s¡nice, Kai,¡± She managed, though I could tell she was still trying to process everything I¡¯d said. Han Wei just gave me a thumbs up, clearly out of his depth.
But it wasn¡¯t until I suggested we spar that I saw their biggest surprise yet.
"Are you sure, Kai? You just got back from... well, everything. Maybe sparring after a long trip and all that isn''t the best idea?"
I flashed him a confident grin. "Nonsense! I''m feeling invigorated. Besides," I added with a wink, "I''ve got a few new tricks up my sleeve."
We moved to a clearing in the bamboo forest, the crisp winter air biting at our cheeks. After a few light jabs and parries, I decided to unleash the surprise.
¡°Rooted Banyan Stance!¡±
His palm strike landed with a resounding thud, but I stood firm, rooted like an ancient tree. A flicker of surprise crossed his face, but he didn''t hesitate, launching a swift kick aimed at my legs.
Again, I held my ground, the impact barely registering. Then another strike, and another. With each blow, their astonishment grew.
Each time, I could see their shock growing as they realized I wasn¡¯t tiring out. I kept using the Rooted Banyan Stance, demonstrating the sheer increase in my qi reserves.
¡°Wait a minute,¡± Li Na said, rising from where she sat. ¡°How are you not exhausted by now? You¡¯ve used that stance so many times¡¡±
I let the stance dissipate, a smug grin replacing my earlier concentration. "My qi reserves have expanded a bit," I said, trying to sound casual. "Fourth rank of Qi Initiation Stage, to be precise."
Their jaws practically hit the floor. For a moment, they just stared at me, completely speechless. Then Han Wei burst out laughing, shaking his head in disbelief.
Han Wei¡¯s laughter rang out across the training grounds, a genuine, hearty sound that was contagious. "Kai, did you find some legendary pill lying on the ground during the Gauntlet? Because this is insane!"
I chuckled, shaking my head. "Nothing so dramatic. I just refined a potent elixir from a couple of Wind Serpent beast cores. Split it with Tianyi and Windy, too."
Li Na''s eyes widened. "Wait, you said cores? Plural?"
I nodded, a smug grin spreading across my face. "Yep, two of them. The first from the wager, and the other was a... gift from the Silent Moon Sect. Guess they wanted to rub in how I lost during the Gauntlet. I can show you guys the letter Elder¡ªno, Sect Leader Jun, sent with it."
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The mention of the rival sect sucked the air out of the clearing. Their earlier excitement evaporated, replaced by a tense silence.
¡°Two beast cores,¡± Han Wei muttered, as if trying to wrap his head around it. He rubbed the back of his neck. ¡°And you made an elixir out of them? That explains so much.¡±
I nodded, with a cheeky grin on my face "Yeah, but that''s not even the craziest part. Come on, I want to show you something."
We reached my guest quarters, and I carefully pushed open the door. The room was quiet, save for the soft sounds of birds chirping outside. I motioned for them to keep their voices down as I led them inside.
I turned to the two third-class disciples with a whisper. "Alright, take a guess. What ranks do you think they¡¯re at now, after ingesting the elixir?"
Han Wei squinted at the two sleeping creatures, scratching his head. "Windy¡¯s got to be at least the same rank as you, right? Fourth rank?"
Li Na seemed more hesitant, glancing at the butterfly resting atop the serpent''s head. "And Tianyi¡ maybe the third rank? She¡¯s always been a bit more delicate, so maybe she didn¡¯t absorb as much."
I chuckled softly, shaking my head. "Close, but not quite. Han Wei''s right, but...Tianyi? She¡¯s in the Essence Awakening Stage."
For a moment, the room was dead silent. Then, as if on cue, their jaws dropped in unison, their expressions a perfect blend of disbelief and awe.
"Essence Awakening?" She whispered as if saying it too loud might wake Tianyi. "But... that''s..."
"Impossible?" I finished for her, grinning like a proud parent. "I know, right? And now, you must bow before your superior!" I added, puffing out my chest and pointing down at them.
Li Na looked between us, her expression serious. ¡°That¡¯s¡ that¡¯s big. There¡¯s been so much happening lately, especially with Sect Leader Shaotian Ye entering seclusion. Things are getting hectic.¡±
I blinked, my focus narrowing in on her words. ¡°Wait, what? What did you just say about Sect Leader Shaotian Ye?¡±
She glanced at Han Wei before answering. ¡°Sect Leader Shaotian Ye''s been in seclusion for a week now. It¡¯s likely because he¡¯s preparing to breakthrough to the Spirit Ascension Stage.¡±
The words hit me like a ton of bricks, and I felt my thoughts racing. The Spirit Ascension Stage?
The sect leaders I knew were like towering mountains, their strength a natural barrier that no ordinary person could cross. At the peak of Essence Awakening, they were like dragons perched on clouds, capable of feats that defied the mortal realm¡ªrunning faster than the wind, lifting boulders as if they were mere pebbles. They were the pinnacle of what our province had to offer, the guardians of our world.
But the next realm after... I only knew one person that was rumored to be there.
The Wind Sage. A man rumored to equal the power of a sect just by himself, and the one who could claim to be the strongest of our region.
¡°Spirit Ascension Stage,¡± I murmured, the words almost foreign on my tongue. It was a stage that seemed more myth than reality, a level of power that belonged to the stories of the ancient cultivators, not something within reach of the present generation. Yet, here we were, with Sect Leader Shaotian Ye on the cusp of such an achievement.
The Verdant Lotus Sect, already one of the most prestigious in the province, could rise to even greater heights. But that wasn¡¯t all. With the ambient qi in the environment was rising, and the Heavenly interface''s existence making breakthroughs easier, meant that others would be attempting to rise along with us. It was both an opportunity and a challenge.
¡°And what about the other sects?¡± I asked, voicing my concern. ¡°If we¡¯re seeing such rapid advancements here, they must be experiencing similar phenomena, right? The balance of power could tip in any direction.¡±
I remembered Feng Wu''s words. The new elders of the Silent Moon, powerful, unknown cultivators serving under Sect Leader Jun.
Han Wei shrugged. ¡°That¡¯s true, but we''re strong. We won''t fall short against the other sects!¡±
His confidence was like a bonfire on a cold night, bright and reassuring, but I knew better than to let its warmth lull me into complacency. The Verdant Lotus was strong, yes, but I had seen the rising stars of other sects¡ªtheir potential as vast as the heavens.
The Silent Moon was a storm gathering on the horizon, its power undeniable. Ping Hai, several years younger than me, yet with a physique that seemed carved from divine stone. Xu Ziqing, the blade that had cut through the Wind Serpents in Qingmu like a scythe through wheat. And then there was Tian Zhan, the genius whose light eclipsed all others in the Whispering Wind Sect. I rubbed my arm, the memory of his strength still fresh, a reminder that the path ahead was fraught with challenges.
Even as I grew, so did they. The river of time flowed ever forward, and I couldn¡¯t afford to be a pebble swept away in its current. I had to be a boulder, unmoving, resolute.
Li Na¡¯s voice pulled me from my thoughts, her tone almost reverent. ¡°We¡¯re really fortunate, you know? To start cultivating in a time when growth is¡ well, easier than it¡¯s ever been.¡±
She was right¡ªthis was a time of opportunity, but with opportunity came uncertainty. The status quo, long held in place like ancient stone, was now crumbling, its pieces falling into an abyss of unknown depth. The province, the sects, the very balance of power¡ªall of it was shifting like sand in the wind, and there was no telling where it would land.
A sense of resolve settled over me. I couldn¡¯t just sit back and let this moment pass. I had to do something to ensure we, the Verdant Lotus Sect, and my friends could not just survive but thrive in this changing world.
I straightened, my decision made. ¡°I¡¯m going back to the Pavilion,¡± I said, the determination clear in my voice.
They both looked at me, their curiosity piqued.
¡°What for?¡± Han Wei asked.
¡°Healing hydrosol. It''s not all-powerful like the beast core elixir, but it''ll accelerate your training and hopefully help the sect maintain their position during these times.¡±
His brows furrowed in confusion. ¡°Healing hydrosol?¡±
Li Na, on the other hand, nodded in understanding. ¡°You mean the one you made before the Gauntlet, right? The one that worked wonders on wounds?¡±
¡°Exactly,¡± I confirmed. ¡°But this time, I¡¯m going to refine it further, make it even better. If the sect has something like this, it could make a real difference, especially if things get as hectic as they seem to be.¡±
Han Wei¡¯s expression cleared as he grasped the importance. ¡°That¡¯s a good idea, Kai. With everything that¡¯s happening, we¡¯re going to need every advantage we can get.¡±
Li Na¡¯s eyes softened as she looked at me, a small smile playing on her lips. ¡°You¡¯ve really thought this through, haven¡¯t you? You¡¯re not just thinking about yourself¡ªyou¡¯re thinking about all of us.¡±
I shrugged, feeling a bit embarrassed under her gaze. ¡°We¡¯re all in this together, right? Besides, it¡¯s not just about making something useful. It¡¯s about being ready for whatever comes next.¡±
Han Wei thumped me on the back, his usual exuberance returning. ¡°Well, if you¡¯re going to be in the Pavilion, then maybe I¡¯ll stop by and see if I can learn a thing or two! And who knows, maybe I¡¯ll get inspired and create something amazing myself!¡±
Li Na rolled her eyes, but there was affection in her teasing. ¡°Sure, Han Wei. Just don¡¯t blow up the Pavilion while you¡¯re at it.¡±
I chuckled at their banter, feeling a warmth in my chest. These were my friends, my comrades. And amid all this uncertainty, it was good to know I wasn¡¯t alone.
¡°Alright,¡± I said, turning to leave. ¡°I¡¯ll see you two later. And don¡¯t worry¡ªI¡¯ll make sure this hydrosol is something worth bragging about.¡±
As I walked away, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of anticipation. The future was uncertain, yes, but that didn¡¯t mean it was out of my control. There were things I could do, steps I could take to prepare.
And if the world was going to change, then I would make sure I was ready to change with it.
118. A Mark of Trust, a Promise of Return
Two days had passed since I¡¯d made my decision to refine the healing hydrosol, and I now found myself seated across from Elder Zhu in one of the smaller, more private rooms of the Alchemy Pavilion. The air was filled with the faint, lingering scent of herbs and fresh ingredients.
Elder Zhu studied the vial in his hand, turning it slowly to catch the light. The liquid inside shimmered with an ethereal, turquoise glow.
¡°You¡¯ve made significant improvements,¡± Elder Zhu said, his voice calm but with an undercurrent of approval. ¡°The increased purity and concentration will undoubtedly increase its effectiveness. This is a fine contribution to the sect.¡±
I felt a surge of pride at his words, but I kept my tone humble. ¡°Thank you, Elder Zhu. I left some essences in storage as a small token of my gratitude. Let me know if you need more.¡±
I''ve already made Instructor Xia Ji aware of my healing hydrosol and how they could incorporate it into their training regimen. It wouldn''t be long before the disciples would sing praises in my honor!
Elder Zhu¡¯s eyes flickered with something akin to surprise before he nodded appreciatively. ¡°That is most generous of you, Kai. The sect will certainly put them to good use.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but reflect on how much time I had spent in the past two days extracting essences. The repetition had led to a surprising result.
| Spiritual Herbalism has reached level 4. |
¡°The extraction process turned out to be quite a learning experience for me as well,¡± I continued, a hint of amusement creeping into my voice.
¡°The heavens often rewards those who act with sincerity and purpose. It seems your efforts to help the sect have led to your own advancement as well. That is the essence of true cultivation¡ªgrowing in harmony with the world around you. Now, have you made all the necessary preparations? You don¡¯t want to leave anything behind."
I nodded, feeling a mixture of excitement and melancholy. "Yes, I think I have everything. I just want to do one last check in the guest quarters to make sure I didn¡¯t forget anything."
"Good. It¡¯s always better to be thorough," Elder Zhu remarked, his tone practical but with a trace of affection. "Safe travels, Kai. And remember, the Verdant Lotus Sect will always welcome you back."
"Thank you, Elder Zhu," I replied, bowing respectfully. "I¡¯ll make sure to carry the lessons I¡¯ve learned here with me, wherever I go."
With that, I left the Pavilion, stepping out into the familiar paths of the sect grounds. The late morning sun bathed everything in a warm, golden light, and the air was filled with the distant hum of disciples going about their daily routines. As I walked, I exchanged nods and greetings with those I passed, each interaction bringing a wave of nostalgia.
I was going to miss this place.
As I approached the guest quarters, my eyes were drawn to the roof, where Tianyi was perched on the roof, as she often did, her tiny form solemn against the vast sky. I had caught her here more often over the past few days.
"Tianyi," I called softly, not wanting to startle her.
She turned her entire body slightly, acknowledging me with a gentle flutter of her wings.
''Kai,'' she replied, her voice as delicate as her appearance.
I smiled up at her. "You¡¯ve been quiet lately. Is everything alright?"
There was a brief pause before she answered, her voice carrying a hint of something I couldn¡¯t quite place. ''I¡¯m just¡ thinking.''
"About what?"
''About change. About what¡¯s to come.''
It was discomforting to realize even a butterfly could suffer an existential crisis, but I suppose her heightened intelligence as a spirit beast came with that.
"Well, there''s one thing that won''t change, and it''s that we''re in this together. Right?"
''Right.''
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Although her tone didn''t sound fully convinced, I could feel her contentment through our bond. Hopefully, my words provided some comfort.
With a final glance up at Tianyi, I headed into the guest quarters. The room was as I had left it, neat and tidy, with everything in its proper place. It was hard to believe that I¡¯d spent so much time here, and now it was time to leave.
I moved through the room, checking the drawers and shelves to make sure I hadn¡¯t overlooked anything. My mind drifted as I did so, thinking about the experiences I¡¯d had in this room¡ªthe late nights spent refining pills, the early mornings preparing for training, the quiet moments of reflection. It was hard to let go of a place that had become so familiar.
Finally, I patted my pockets, making sure I had all my essentials. My hand brushed against the cool surface of the jade amulet, and I pulled it out, examining it closely. The jade felt warm in my hand, a reassuring weight that I slipped back into my pocket.
I didn¡¯t want to forget this one.
With everything in order, I called out softly to the butterfly perched on the roof. "Come on down, Tianyi. Time to go."
She fluttered down from her perch, landing gracefully on my shoulder. I could feel her wings brush against my cheek.
Next, I approached Windy, who was curled up on the floor, still in a deep sleep. His scales gleamed in the soft light, a subtle sheen of blue reflecting off his white body. I crouched down and gently lifted him, feeling the warmth of his small, coiled form in my hands.
Windy stirred slightly as I picked him up, his eyes blinking open. He slithered up my sleeve, curling around my arm and poking his head out from behind my collar. His tiny tongue flickered in the air, tasting the cool breeze, and I could sense his displeasure at the temperature.
"Sorry, buddy," I murmured, rubbing his head lightly. "I''ll make sure to wear the coat when we''re going back home."
With Tianyi perched on my shoulder and Windy nestled against my neck, I took one last look around the room. It was strange to think that this would be the last time I stood here.
As I stepped outside, the sun was higher in the sky, casting a warm glow over the sect grounds. The day was beautiful, the kind that made you want to linger, to soak in the peace and tranquility of the place. As I walked down the familiar path to the stables, I noticed something that stopped me in my tracks¡ªa small gathering of people just outside. My cart and horses were already prepared, waiting patiently in the warm sunlight, but what caught my attention was the group standing nearby.
A small group stood by my cart and horses, which were already prepared and waiting in the sunlight. Feng Wu, Han Wei, Li Na, Lan Sheng, Instructor Xia Ji, and Instructor Xiao-Hu¡ªall of them were there, watching me with small, knowing smiles. They stood together, a united front of friends, mentors, and comrades who had become an irreplaceable part of my life here.
A tingle started at the tip of my nose, the telltale sign that tears weren¡¯t far behind. I swallowed hard, pushing the emotion back down. Now wasn¡¯t the time for that.
Taking a deep breath, I plastered a grin on my face and walked toward them. ¡°You all seem a little too eager to see me go,¡± I joked, keeping my tone light.
Han Wei was the first to respond, his grin as wide as ever. ¡°What can we say, Kai? It¡¯s not every day we get to kick someone out of the sect!¡±
Li Na rolled her eyes, though the smile tugging at her lips was genuine. ¡°Ignore him, Kai. We¡¯re here because we¡¯re going to miss you. And because we wanted to make sure you don¡¯t leave without a proper send-off.¡±
I felt a lump form in my throat, and I forced myself to keep the grin in place. ¡°You guys are making it really hard to leave, you know that?¡±
Feng Wu stepped forward, his usual demeanor tinged with something softer. ¡°I wish I could go with you, but unfortunately, I¡¯ve some obligations here. I hope Lan Sheng will be a suitable escort in my stead.¡±
Before I could respond, Lan Sheng chimed in with a grin. ¡°Trust me, Kai, you¡¯ll be much safer with me than with Feng Wu. At least I won¡¯t lead you into any unnecessary fights.¡±
A round of chuckles went around the group, and I couldn¡¯t help but join in. The lighthearted banter helped ease the tension in my chest, but it was a temporary reprieve. The weight of the moment was still pressing down on me, even as I tried to keep things light.
Instructor Xia Ji cleared her throat, drawing my attention back to her. Her stern expression softened as she looked at me. ¡°Kai, your contributions to the Verdant Lotus Sect have been invaluable. You may not be an official disciple, but you¡¯ve shown dedication, skill, and heart. We¡¯d like to present you with something, as a token of our appreciation.¡±
She nudged Instructor Xiao-Hu playfully with her elbow. "Don''t just stand there like a statue, Xiao-Hu. Hand over the goods!"
Xiao-Hu, ever the stoic instructor, cleared his throat and attempted to regain his composure, shooting a half-hearted glare at Xia Ji. "Must you always undermine my authority in front of the young ones?" he muttered under his breath, but a faint smile betrayed his amusement.
With a dignified nod, he stepped forward, presenting a finely crafted charm. "Kai Liu," he said, his voice gruff yet warm, "accept this token as a symbol of our respect and gratitude. May it guide you on your path and remind you of the bonds you''ve forged here."
I took it from him, my fingers tracing the intricate lotus design etched into the metal. It was beautiful, with fine craftsmanship that spoke of both elegance and strength. Recognition dawned on me¡ªit was the same type of charm Feng Wu had used to gain entry into Crescent Bay City, to get discounts at shops, and other privileges.
"This charm signifies your affiliations with us. It¡¯s a mark of our trust and respect. With this, you¡¯ll be recognized as one of us, no matter where your journey takes you."
The tears I''d been holding back finally spilled over, hot and stinging. I tried to blink them away, but they kept coming, a relentless stream that blurred my vision.
"I... I don''t know what to say," I stammered, my voice cracking. I looked at each of them, their faces a blur through my tears.
My words were clumsy, inadequate, but they were the only ones I could manage. The gesture, the recognition, the love and support they had shown me... it was overwhelming, a tidal wave of emotion that threatened to drown me.
"I promise... I''ll make you all proud."
A chorus of warm laughter erupted from the group. Han Wei slung an arm around my shoulders, pulling me into a bone-crushing hug. "You already have, you oaf!" he exclaimed, his voice booming with affection. "Now come here and let us give you a proper send-off!"
Li Na joined the embrace, her hug surprisingly firm despite her petite frame. "Come back and visit us soon. If you make us wait until we''re second-class disciples to visit you, I''m going to be mad."
Even Feng Wu, usually reserved and calm, offered a smile and patted my head. "Safe travels, Kai. May your journey be filled with adventure and good fortune."
The instructors, maintaining a more professional distance, stepped forward to shake my hand. Instructor Xiao-Hu''s grip was firm.
"Remember everything you''ve learned, Kai," He said, his voice stern yet kind. "And don''t hesitate to reach out if you need anything."
"You''ve got a bright future ahead of you," Instructor Xia Ji said, clapping me on the shoulder. "Nurture it."
The horses, sensing our departure, pawed at the ground impatiently.
I looked down at Windy and Tianyi, both nestled against me¡ªmy constant companions through all of this. I reached into the cart, pulling out a cloth robe, draping it over myself and Windy to ward off the slight chill of the breeze. More than that, I discreetly used the edge of the cloth to wipe my eyes, clearing away the tears that had managed to escape.
Enough of this! This is unbecoming of a genius like myself! What would the world think if they saw me like this? A future legend, blubbering like a child?
I sniffed one last time, straightened my back, and pointed dramatically at the sky. "Alright, Lan Sheng!" I declared. "It¡¯s time to depart! The heavens are waiting, and so are the great deeds I¡¯m destined to accomplish! Let¡¯s go!"
Lan Sheng chuckled, clearly amused by my antics, but played along, giving a mock bow. "As you command, young master."
With a butterfly on my shoulder and a snake nestled against my neck, I climbed onto the cart, feeling a strange mixture of sadness and excitement. As we rolled through the sect gates, I couldn¡¯t help but glance back one last time. The rolling hills, the sprawling training grounds, the familiar faces¡ªit all felt like a part of me, a home I was leaving behind.
But I knew I would always return.
119. Footprints in the Snow
The road stretched out before us, a winding path bordered by thick forests and rolling hills. The decision to bypass Crescent Bay City was a simple one¡ªtime was precious, and the journey back to my village was long enough without unnecessary detours. Besides, the thought of dealing with the city¡¯s bustling streets and watchful eyes didn¡¯t exactly thrill me. So, Lan Sheng and I stuck to the quieter path, our cart trundling steadily along.
He sat beside me, his usual easygoing demeanor making the journey feel less daunting. We¡¯d been chatting since we left the sect, mostly about my recent advancements.
¡°You know,¡± Lan Sheng said, breaking the comfortable silence, ¡°what you¡¯ve done with your qi reserves is pretty impressive. It¡¯s not every day someone raises their level to that of a second-class disciple after just one elixir.¡±
I shrugged, trying to play it off. ¡°The beast cores did most of the heavy lifting.¡±
Lan Sheng chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°You¡¯re too modest, Kai. Sure, the beast cores were potent, but not just anyone could have absorbed that power without some serious consequences. Your reserves are comparable to those of a second-class disciple, and Tianyi? She¡¯s at a rank that rivals a sect elder. That¡¯s nothing short of remarkable.¡±
¡°When you put it like that... I suppose it is pretty crazy. I wonder what would''ve happened had I drunk the whole thing myself.¡±
He grinned, leaning back against the cart¡¯s wooden seat. ¡°Let me put it this way: We had a senior disciple in our sect who took an elixir just like yours. His qi surged, his power grew, and for a brief moment, he was the strongest in the sect.¡±
My interest was piqued. ¡°What happened to him?¡±
The man''s expression turned grave, his voice dropping to a low whisper. ¡°He exploded.¡±
I nearly choked. ¡°What?!¡±
¡°Yep. Boom. Bits and pieces everywhere,¡± Lan Sheng continued, his tone ominous. ¡°The sky was filled with his remains for days. Birds wouldn¡¯t go near the place where it happened for years.¡±
My heart skipped a beat as I stared at him, horrified. ¡°You¡¯re joking, right?¡±
The serious expression on his face cracked, and he burst out laughing. ¡°Of course I¡¯m joking! Come on, Kai, you really think Elder Zhu would let you take something that risky?¡±
This is why I didn''t like Lan Sheng. He was a mischievous man, almost the complete opposite of Feng Wu in some ways.
¡°You really had me there for a second.¡±
¡°Lesson learned¡ªdon¡¯t believe stories that sound too dramatic.¡±
¡°Alright, alright. What¡¯s the real story? What would¡¯ve happened if I drank it all?¡±
Lan Sheng¡¯s tone shifted, though the amusement lingered. ¡°It¡¯s about more than just a potent elixir. Compatibility is key. Some people¡ªor spirit beasts¡ªare hyper-responders. Their physique, affinities, and the medicine all align perfectly. When that happens, the effects are amplified. It¡¯s rare, but it happens.¡±
¡°So it¡¯s not just the elixir¡¯s strength, but how well it meshes with the person?¡±
¡°Exactly. Your body and affinities were in sync with the beast cores. Everything lined up perfectly. Tianyi must have had an even higher compatibility, which is why she ascended so fast. If you¡¯d taken it all, your reserves would¡¯ve been higher, but not as drastic as you might think.¡±
I glanced at Tianyi, who fluttered around while Windy was huddled under my robes. ¡°So, a perfect storm¡ªright place, right time, right conditions.¡±
Lan Sheng nodded. "But even with that, there¡¯s a limit. The more you use one type of elixir or pill, the less effective it becomes as your body gets used to it. That¡¯s why you can¡¯t keep taking the same pills and expect endless growth."
"That¡¯s why variety matters," I added. "Different ingredients, different effects."
¡°Exactly. You keep your cultivation on its toes. But even then, you¡¯ll eventually run out of pills that give significant gains. That¡¯s why the path gets harder the further you go. You have to rely more on your own efforts and less on external aids.¡±
The further we traveled, the more convinced I became that sharing the elixir with Tianyi and Windy had been the right decision. Sure, I could¡¯ve hoarded it all for myself, raised my own power to ridiculous heights¡ªbut what kind of legend would I be without my companions by my side? The tales they¡¯ll tell won¡¯t just be of Kai, the lone cultivator with his two spirit beasts trailing behind him. No, we¡¯ll be known as something far more grand¡ªa trio that defies the heavens together, a force of nature that leaves entire sects trembling.
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"And qi can only do so much. Even though your reserves are comparable to mine, it doesn''t mean you could hang with me in a fight."
I turned to him with a raised brow. "Is that a challenge?"
"Is that what you think it is? I didn''t mean it that way," He said amiably, scratching the back of his head. "Just meant it as a cautionary tale. Can''t have you challenging second-class disciples with your head getting too big, they''ll make minced meat out of you!"
"Oh, you look down upon this young master? How about you see if you can make minced meat out of me? I challenge you to a spar!"
Of course, it was all in jest. But having the opportunity to let loose against someone of Lan Sheng''s caliber... it was an opportunity that was rather hard to come by. It might be the last until I go and visit the sect again.
He looked at me in surprise, before looking left and right. There was nothing but rolling hills covered in a blanket of frost and snow.
"Well, I suppose we''ve covered enough distance. This would give the horses a chance to rest."
We stopped at a nice, flat area and made a small camp. I placed Windy in my fur-lined coat beside the campfire, while Tianyi fluttered around aimlessly. After I made sure the horses were well-situated with some food and water, I stood in front of Lan Sheng with no small amount of apprehension.
I still remembered our first spar; boosted with potions to enhance my mental acuity and physical prowess, I still had no chance against him.
But what about now?
With the Memory Palace technique, I had the opportunity to review his tells, habits, and moves over and over again. Having the second-class disciples to practice against in my mindscape was crucial for refining my techniques. They were on a different level, both physically and mentally, from the younger generation like Li Na and Han Wei.
"As per tradition, I''ll give you the first three moves." He rolled his shoulders, shaking his legs, before transitioning into an open palm stance.
With his demure grin and half-lidded eyes, it would''ve been easy for the average person to think he wasn''t on-guard.
But I knew. It was just a facade. One hiding a hand-to-hand combatant superior even to Feng Wu.
Without giving a signal, I dashed forward starting the fight with a swift jab to his solar plexus.
He parried it with ease, although whistled at the punch.
"Fast. You didn''t take that potion of yours, did you? What''s it called..."
He casually ducked under my kick, scratching his head.
"... The Ambrosia of Glowing Sunrise?"
"That''s not what it''s called!"
I threw another punch, but this time, he caught it, pulling me forward to take me off balance.
"Ha, sorry about that. It''s a mouthful, you must admit."
As I stumbled, I could see the incoming leg sweep, which would inevitably leave me face-planting onto the snowy ground.
Just as I expected.
''ROOTED BANYAN STANCE!''
I tensed my core muscles, yanking my arm back in a hasty, incomplete version of the Rooted Banyan Stance. The defense was weak, but enough to keep me from being swept off my feet.
His lower shin made contact with my ankle, grinding against each other for a brief, painful moment. But I stayed standing.
Before he could respond, I let loose a burst of qi, infusing it into my next punch. The air cracked as my fist shot forward, aimed straight at his chest. But Lan Sheng, ever the seasoned warrior, sidestepped at the last possible moment, his movements fluid and precise.
My fist sailed past him, and before I could recover, he countered with a swift palm strike to my solar plexus. The force of the blow sent a shockwave through my body, knocking the wind out of me and making me heave as I staggered backward, clutching my stomach.
Lan Sheng¡¯s eyes widened, and he immediately stepped back, his hands raised in apology. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! My muscle memory kicked in. I didn¡¯t mean to hit you that hard.¡±
I waved him off, still trying to catch my breath. ¡°N-no worries. Just¡ give me a second.¡±
He waited patiently as I composed myself, the sharp pain in my chest slowly subsiding. Finally, I managed to straighten up, offering him a wry smile. ¡°Guess I¡¯m not quite there yet.¡±
He returned the smile, but his tone was apologetic. ¡°I won''t lie, that was impressive. I didn¡¯t expect you to react like that. But remember, it¡¯s not just about the qi. Your body and mind need to improve in conjunction with it. Qi is like the fuel for your attacks, but if the vessel isn¡¯t built to handle it, you¡¯re going to crash.¡±
He paused, then added, ¡°Think of it like a bow and arrow. Your qi is the string, your body the bow, and your mind the arrow. If the string is strong but the bow is weak, the arrow won¡¯t fly true. And if your mind isn¡¯t focused, even the strongest shot will miss its mark.¡±
I nodded, the metaphor sinking in. ¡°So, I need to strengthen all three¡ªbody, mind, and qi¡ªto truly become formidable.¡±
I''d always understood it to be that way. It''s why I strived for a balance rather than specializing in one particular area.
"Although, your growth rate... It''s quite frightening. Perhaps there is some merit in your title as a genius, eh?"
I couldn''t suppress the grin spreading across my face. I puffed up my chest, a playful swagger entering my step. "At this rate, I''d be able to take on Ping Hai in a straight fight, wouldn''t I?"
He paused, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
Then, he looked up at the sky and spoke. "Ah, the snow is falling so beautifully today, don''t you think, Kai?"
I stared at him, my jaw agape. "That''s not an answer!"
He simply shrugged, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "We can rest here for about an hour, then continue. Qingmu isn''t far now."
"Lan Sheng!" I groaned, playfully shoving his shoulder. "Don''t dodge the question!"
The snow continued to fall, a silent witness to our lighthearted banter as I relentlessly pestered him for a straight answer.
As the village of Qingmu came into view, a surge of nostalgia washed over me. The last time I had seen this place, it had been under siege by Wind Serpents, its streets filled with fear and uncertainty. Now, as I breathed in the crisp winter air, I could see that the damage from those attacks had been repaired. The houses stood tall and sturdy, their walls freshly mended, and life had returned to the village.
Excitement bubbled up inside me as we drew closer. The village was more vibrant than I remembered. Children played in the snow, their laughter ringing out through the cold air, while adults tended to their tasks, their expressions relaxed and content. It was a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere I had encountered before.
As Lan Sheng and I strolled down the main path, I noticed how quickly the villagers recognized me. Whispers spread like wildfire, and before I knew it, people were approaching us with broad smiles and words of gratitude.
¡°Kai! It¡¯s really him! The one who saved us from the Wind Serpents!¡±
¡°The hero of Qingmu has returned!¡±
In no time, I was surrounded by villagers, their faces glowing with appreciation. They crowded around me, some clasping my hands, others bowing their heads in thanks. The attention was overwhelming, and I could feel the familiar warmth of embarrassment creeping up my neck.
The second-class disciple, never one to miss an opportunity to tease, leaned in with a grin. ¡°So, how does it feel to be the village¡¯s savior? They might start building a statue of you next.¡±
I chuckled awkwardly, trying to deflect the praise. ¡°I¡¯m just glad I could help. No need for statues, really.¡±
But just as I was beginning to accept the adulation, a piercing scream cut through the air, shattering the celebratory mood. The villagers around me froze, their expressions shifting from joy to alarm as they turned to look at the source of the scream.
A woman stood a short distance away, her eyes wide with terror. She was pointing directly at me¡ªor rather, at something near me. Confused, I followed her gaze and realized what had caught her attention.
My ever-curious companion, had poked his head out from my collar, his serpentine eyes gleaming innocently as he took in the scene.
...Perhaps bringing a Wind Serpent into a village that had been attacked by Wind Serpents wasn¡¯t my brightest idea.
120. Fears Lingering Bite
The crowd¡¯s joyful murmurs turned into hushed whispers, and the warm smiles I had been receiving moments ago faded into wary stares. It didn¡¯t take long for me to understand why. Windy, though far smaller and less menacing than the serpents that had attacked Qingmu, still bore a striking resemblance to them. His white scales and blue eyes were different, yes, but to the villagers, he was still a spirit beast serpent¡ªa creature they had every reason to fear.
I forced a smile, trying to dispel the growing tension. ¡°Please, everyone, calm down. This is Windy. He¡¯s not like the Wind Serpents that attacked the village. He¡¯s a different species entirely.¡±
It was a bit of a fib. He was undoubtedly a Wind Serpent, but as listed by the Interface, an aberrant. One clearly influenced by Tianyi''s abilities, infusing him with energy since he was just an egg.
The villagers exchanged uncertain glances, their apprehension palpable. I could see the fear in their eyes, the memories of those terrifying days resurfacing. I couldn¡¯t blame them; after all, it wasn¡¯t every day that a snake¡ªespecially one resembling a Wind Serpent¡ªshowed up in your village.
¡°He¡¯s harmless,¡± I continued, my tone as reassuring as I could make it. ¡°Look at him. He¡¯s smaller, his scales are pure white, and his eyes are blue, not red like the ones that attacked the village. He¡¯s not aggressive at all.¡±
But my words seemed to do little to soothe their fears. The villagers continued to murmur among themselves, their eyes darting between me and Windy. I could hear snippets of their conversations¡ª
¡°Can we trust him?¡±
¡°What if it turns on us?¡±
¡°It looks just like them¡¡±
Lan Sheng, sensing the rising tension, stepped forward. His presence, usually relaxed and easygoing, took on a more authoritative air as he addressed the crowd. ¡°People of Qingmu, I understand your concerns, but I assure you, this serpent is not a threat. On the honor of the Verdant Lotus Sect, I swear that Windy is under complete control and can be trusted.¡±
For a moment, his words seemed to have some effect. The murmurs quieted slightly, and a few of the villagers glanced at each other, as if trying to gauge whether they should believe us. But the fear was still there, lurking just beneath the surface.
One of the older men, his face lined with years of hardship, stepped forward. ¡°He may be different, but he¡¯s still a serpent. We¡¯ve seen what those creatures can do. Can you guarantee that it won¡¯t harm us?¡±
I opened my mouth to respond, but the words caught in my throat. I knew he wouldn¡¯t hurt anyone, but how could I convince them? How could I make them see that he wasn¡¯t like the others?
An idea struck me. If I could show the villagers that Windy was fully under my control¡ªtamed and harmless¡ªthey might start to see him differently. I swallowed my nerves and glanced down at the serpent, who was still nestled in my collar, his blue eyes watching the villagers with a curious but indifferent gaze.
¡°Of course I can guarantee it,¡± I said, my voice firm. ¡°In fact, I¡¯ll prove it to you right now.¡±
I cleared my throat, trying to sound confident. ¡°Windy, come out and show everyone how well-behaved you are.¡±
He blinked at me slowly, and for a moment, I thought he was going to cooperate. But then he just stayed where he was, his expression unreadable. The villagers watched closely, their unease palpable, as I tried again.
¡°Come on, Windy,¡± I urged, my tone a little more pleading. ¡°Do something¡ uh, cool. You know, like you did back at the sect.¡±
I swore I saw a hint of reproach in those blue eyes. He didn¡¯t move an inch. My confidence began to falter, and I could feel the sweat starting to bead on my forehead. This was not going as planned.
¡°Please?¡±
I couldn¡¯t believe I was begging a snake to perform tricks in front of a crowd, but here I was, half of the entire village watching me.
Windy finally stirred, but instead of doing something impressive or even remotely useful, he slithered out of my collar and coiled around my arm lazily, resting his head on my shoulder. His eyes half-lidded, he looked more like he was ready to take a nap than to impress anyone.
And then, I felt it¡ªa wave of icy disdain washing over me, but it wasn¡¯t my own. It was sharp, cold, and pointed, cutting through the fog of my thoughts like a blade. My breath caught in my throat. Tianyi?
The realization hit me like a splash of cold water, and I turned my gaze toward her. The usually delicate butterfly was hovering in the air, her wings barely moving as she stared intently at Windy. Her entire form seemed to radiate an icy aura, and it became clear that she was the source of the frigid pressure I was feeling.
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The serpentine spirit beast, who had been perfectly content to ignore my requests, suddenly stiffened. His gaze shifted from me to Tianyi, and for the first time, I saw a flicker of something akin to nervousness in his blue eyes. It was as if they were having a silent conversation, one where Windy was being firmly reprimanded.
His body coiled tighter around my arm, his tail twitching as if he was trying to resist whatever command the butterfly was giving him. But the pressure from Tianyi¡¯s silent will was unrelenting, her icy determination pressing down on him. I could feel the tension in Windy¡¯s small body, a silent battle of wills between the two spirit beasts.
For a moment, I feared Windy might openly defy her, but then the resistance in his posture softened. With a resigned huff¡ªif snakes could huff¡ªWindy uncoiled himself from my arm and leaped into the air. The movement was fluid and graceful, a stark contrast to his earlier laziness. He formed a perfect circle mid-air before landing back on my shoulder with an effortless flick of his tail.
The villagers, who had been holding their breath, erupted into applause. Their earlier apprehension began to dissolve, replaced by awe at the display.
I exhaled a long breath I didn¡¯t realize I had been holding. The icy pressure in my mind subsided as Tianyi¡¯s presence softened, her intent satisfied. Windy, on the other hand, shot the both of us a reproachful look as if to say, There, happy now?
I offered him an apologetic smile in return, grateful that he had gone along with the plan, even if reluctantly. He''ll be receiving a nice feast when I can provide it for him!
As the villagers began to approach again, this time with less fear and more curiosity, I allowed myself a moment of relief. Things hadn¡¯t gone exactly as planned, but they had worked out in the end. Still, I made a mental note: bringing a Wind Serpent into a village that had been terrorized by Wind Serpents? Probably not the wisest course of action.
They slowly returned to their routines, though their eyes still lingered on me and my serpent companion. A few even managed hesitant smiles as they gave us space to pass through.
Lan Sheng, ever the light-hearted one, clapped me on the shoulder as we continued toward the village''s inn. "Well, that was a close one. It''s a good thing Windy knew what ''cool'' meant."
I chuckled, more out of relief than anything else. "Yeah, well, I suppose I should''ve anticipated that reaction. Not every day you bring a Wind Serpent into a place that barely survived an attack by its kin."
We reached the inn, a modest establishment that looked like it had seen better days but had clearly been patched up with care since the last time I¡¯d visited. I pushed the door open with a casual swing, intending to brush off the day''s excitement.
As soon as we stepped inside, the familiar warmth of the inn enveloped us. The smell of hearty stew and fresh bread wafted through the air. The innkeeper glanced up from behind the counter, ready to greet us with the usual pleasantries. But then, recognition flickered across his face, and his words caught in his throat.
"Welcome! What can I¡ªElder Brother Kai?!" he stammered, his eyes widening in disbelief.
I grinned, already feeling more at ease. "Hua Lingsheng! You''ve grown!"
The boy I''d saved from the Wind Serpents, now a bit taller and certainly more confident, was standing right in front of me. It was good to see him again, especially under better circumstances.
His face lit up with excitement as he rushed forward, grabbing my hands with an enthusiasm that nearly knocked me off balance. ¡°Elder Brother Kai!¡± he exclaimed, his voice trembling with awe. ¡°You''ve returned!¡±
I smiled warmly at him, patting his shoulder. ¡°I have, and it''s clear you''ve grown while I was away.¡±
"Of course! I''ve been training! So that one day, I can protect the village just like you did!"
I chuckled softly, trying to ease his intensity. He was buzzing in excitement, so much so that I thought he''d explode. ¡°No need to rush. Just take your time and focus on your training. Cultivation is a lifelong journey, and you have plenty of time to grow.¡±
He nodded, before glancing at Tianyi, Windy, and Lan Sheng. He strained his neck to see two horses and a cart behind us.
"I''ll have the rooms prepared for you immediately! Just give me a few moments!"
"Thank you," I pulled out my coin satchel, heavy with change. "How much will it b¡ª?"
But Hua Lingsheng wasn¡¯t about to be calmed down so easily. ¡°Nonsense!¡± he declared with a fervor that made me blink in surprise. ¡°I owe you my life, and allowing you to pay would bring shame upon my family for generations! Let me take care of your horses and cart¡ªI¡¯ll make sure they¡¯re well looked after.¡±
Before I could protest, he darted out of the inn, leaving me standing there, slightly stunned by his energy. I could hear him shouting orders to the stable hands outside, his voice brimming with purpose.
I sighed inwardly, feeling a mix of embarrassment and pride. It was touching, really, to see how much of an impact I¡¯d had on him. But at the same time, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit uncomfortable with the hero worship.
Lan Sheng, who had been watching the whole exchange with barely contained amusement, finally lost his composure. He burst out laughing, his shoulders shaking with mirth. ¡°You¡¯ve really made an impression on him, haven¡¯t you?¡±
I shot him a glare, though I couldn¡¯t help the smile tugging at the corners of my lips. ¡°Oh, shut up. I didn¡¯t ask for this.¡±
He wiped a tear from his eye, still chuckling. ¡°Oh, I know. But it¡¯s just too good. The mighty Kai, revered by the villagers and idolized by the young. Who would¡¯ve thought?¡±
¡°Yeah, yeah,¡± I muttered, trying to brush off the embarrassment. ¡°Let¡¯s just focus on getting a room for the night.¡±
Within minutes, we were situated and placed in the biggest rooms in the inn. It was early in the evening still, and I decided to get some training done outside. if I wanted to incorporate the rest of the beast core elixir into my dantian quicker, I''d need to keep on training hard and deplete my reserves.
My two companions came with me, although Lan Sheng stayed in his room, likely cultivating in peace or sleeping.
We sneakily made our way out of the inn as a group, traveling into the outskirts, but close enough where the village was in plain sight. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, remembering Lan Sheng''s words.
Qi alone is not enough.
The memory of our sparring session replayed in my mind, a relentless loop of feints, parries, and missed opportunities. I had dissected every movement, every subtle shift in his stance, every telltale twitch of his muscles. I had the advantage of familiarity, of countless hours spent replaying our encounters within the vast expanse of my Memory Palace. Yet, despite my knowledge, he had effortlessly outmaneuvered me
What was it that kept him so far ahead of me?
I understood now. More than ever. It wasn''t just about having the strongest techniques or the most potent reserves. It was about knowing when to strike, when to yield, when to adapt. It was about reading your opponent, anticipating their next move, and responding with a calculated counter.
A fierce determination ignited within me. This was a challenge I couldn''t overcome with shortcuts or clever tricks. This was a battle that would be won through sweat, blood, and countless hours of practice.
And the only solution to that, was gaining experience of my own. To adapt and consider the nuance of each technique I know, when to use them and when not to. This wasn''t something I could shortcut so easily.
I turned to Tianyi and Windy, a fierce grin spreading across my face. "You two ready?"
''Indeed,'' The butterfly''s voice echoed in my mind, a melody carried on the crisp winter air.
Windy uncoiled, his sleek body a blur of white against the snow as he tested his newfound agility. The elixir had ignited a spark within him, a hunger for challenge and growth. And perhaps a hint of resentment for being forced to do tricks under my and Tianyi''s behest.
A thrill coursed through me. The prospect of sparring with partners who could match my newfound strength was exhilarating. No more holding back, no more cautious exchanges.
"Let''s go!" I roared, launching myself forward, my body a blur of motion.
The snow-covered clearing became our battlefield. Tianyi darted through the air, her wings a blur. Windy, a serpentine whirlwind, weaved and lunged, his tail a whip of pure force. I met their attacks with equal fervor, my movements fueled by a newfound confidence and agility.
The night air crackled with energy, the clash of our powers echoing through the silent clearing. Under the watchful eyes of the moon and stars, we danced, we fought, we grew.
Like a dragon''s claws tempered against steel scales, we honed our skills, each strike a step closer to mastery.
121. A Taoists Forbidden Feast
I groaned as I slowly became aware of my surroundings, every muscle in my body protesting even the slightest movement. It felt like I¡¯d been run over by a herd of stampeding spirit beasts.
Although admittedly that wasn''t too far from the case.
The dull ache in my limbs was a stark reminder of the sparring session from the night before, where I had faced the brutal onslaught of my own companions.
Windy¡¯s qi-infused tail strikes had been far more powerful than I anticipated. The sheer force behind each whip of his tail had nearly knocked the wind out of me, and I was pretty sure I¡¯d have quite a few bruises had it not been for the Rooted Banyan Stance.
As I slowly stretched out my arm, I winced, feeling the soreness in my muscles. Tianyi had been no less formidable. Her lightning-fast bladed wings had forced me to stay on my toes, dodging and weaving as best as I could. The cuts on my robes¡ªand the few shallow ones on my skin¡ªwere a testament to her precision.
As I lay there, staring up at the wooden ceiling, I couldn¡¯t help but replay the events of the previous night in my mind. Lan Sheng had been right, of course. Just because someone had immense qi reserves didn¡¯t mean they could wield them effectively in battle. Tianyi, despite having reached a rank comparable to a sect elder according to the Interface, wasn¡¯t yet a seasoned fighter. She had the power, yes, but her lack of experience was evident. Her attacks were fast, her wings sharp enough to slice through wood, but there was a predictability to her movements that I could exploit¡ªif I was fast enough, that is.
But even knowing that, I couldn¡¯t ignore the reality of our sparring session. If we had been fighting for real, with the intent to kill, there was no doubt in my mind that Tianyi would have left me in a puddle of my own blood. She was strong, far stronger than me in terms of raw power, but it wasn¡¯t an insurmountable strength. There was still a gap between us, but it wasn¡¯t the kind of gap that left me feeling hopeless. Instead, it was a challenge¡ªa challenge to close that distance, to grow stronger alongside her.
''Good morning,'' The butterfly in question said. She fluttered over, perching atop my nose.
"Good morning to you too, Tianyi."
I decided not to disturb Windy, as he was content, sleeping. Getting dressed and tying my hair into a bun, I made my way downstairs, yawning all the while.
I was met with a massive breakfast, several dishes piled high, along with the sight of Lan Sheng eating noodle soup.
Beef noodle soup.
He stilled, as though detecting my presence.
My jaw dropped. "Lan Sheng," I sputtered, pointing at the taoist. "Is that... beef noodle soup?"
He froze, chopsticks hovering mid-air, a noodle dangling precariously from his lips. His eyes darted between me and the bowl.
"It''s, uh..." he stammered, clearing his throat. "It''s a... medicinal broth. Yes, a medicinal broth made with, uh, beef essence. For strengthening the body and... and cultivating yang energy."
"You''re the worst liar I''ve ever met!"
He sheepishly lowered his chopsticks, a blush creeping up his neck. "Alright, alright, you got me," he admitted, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "But it''s been ages since I''ve had a good bowl of beef noodle soup. And besides," he added, his voice taking on a conspiratorial tone, "a little indulgence never hurt anyone, right?"
I shook my head, still chuckling. "You''re incorrigible," I said, taking a seat across from him. "But I guess I can''t blame you. That smells amazing."
He beamed, pushing the bowl towards me. "Try some," he offered. "It''s better than anything I''ve tried in Crescent Bay."
Did that mean he was a repeat offender? Was this guy really a taoist?
"Why not? After all," I said, echoing his earlier words, "a little indulgence never hurt anyone."
As I slurped up the flavorful broth and savored the tender beef, I couldn''t help but grin. Maybe a little deviation from the path of strict discipline wasn''t so bad after all. Especially when it involved a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup.
"I hope you''re enjoying the meal," A voice said from the kitchen. I turned to my right, seeing a familiar face. "I apologize for not meeting you last night."
"Ah..! Hua Yin, right?"
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Hua Lingsheng''s father, was looking at me with a small smile.
I wiped my mouth with the back of my hand and quickly stood up to greet him, offering a respectful bow. "No need to apologize, it¡¯s good to see you again."
He waved off my formality with a warm smile, stepping closer to the table. ¡°I¡¯m glad to see you¡¯ve recovered from your journey. We¡¯ve all been working hard here in Qingmu, repairing the damage from the Wind Serpents before winter truly sets in. But we wouldn¡¯t have had the chance to do any of it if it weren¡¯t for you.¡±
His words were humbling, and I felt a flush of embarrassment creep up my neck.
¡°I only did what anyone would have done in my place,¡± I replied, my voice a murmur.
Hua Yin shook his head, his expression earnest. ¡°You did more than that. You saved this village. My family, my son... We owe you a debt we can never truly repay. Your stay here, as well as your meals, are on the house. Please, enjoy yourself freely.¡±
I opened my mouth to protest, but the look in his eyes told me that arguing would be futile. Instead, I nodded, grateful for their kindness. ¡°Thank you. That¡¯s very generous of you.¡±
Lan Sheng, who had been quietly enjoying his meal throughout the exchange, suddenly chimed in between bites of his beef noodle soup. ¡°Well, I have to say, this is the best hospitality I¡¯ve had in a long time! You¡¯ve got yourself a top-notch inn here.¡±
I shot him a sideways glance, unable to suppress a smirk. He was eating like he¡¯d been the one to save the village, completely at ease and clearly relishing every bite. ¡°You do realize it wasn¡¯t you who saved Qingmu, right? Maybe leave some food for the actual hero?¡±
The second-class disciple grinned, not the least bit ashamed. ¡°I¡¯m just making sure none of this delicious food goes to waste. Besides, if you think about it, I¡¯m doing the village a favor by keeping my strength up. What if another Wind Serpent comes along?¡±
I rolled my eyes, but couldn¡¯t help laughing. ¡°Yeah, sure. Keep telling yourself that.¡±
Hua Yin chuckled as well, clearly amused by our banter. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you both in high spirits. You¡¯re welcome to stay as long as you like, Kai. Qingmu is always open to you.¡±
I smiled, appreciating the innkeeper''s generosity and the warmth in his voice. It was comforting to know that I had a place where I was always welcome.
"Thank you," I said again, feeling a genuine sense of gratitude. "But if I could ask for one more favor¡"
"Anything you need, just say the word."
"Could I trouble you for a cup of sugar water? It''s for Tianyi. She prefers something sweet to start the day."
"Ah, for your companion. Absolutely, I''ll have it prepared right away."
As he headed back to the kitchen, I settled back into my seat, feeling more at ease. The butterfly fluttered down from her perch, landing delicately on the edge of the table.
''Thank you.''
Lan Sheng, meanwhile, continued to eat with gusto, clearly enjoying himself.
"You''re really making the most of this, aren''t you?"
"I¡¯m ensuring that the savior of Qingmu doesn¡¯t have to eat alone. That counts for something, right?"
I laughed, shaking my head. What a character. I wonder if Feng Wu deviated from his taoist practices when he was alone like he did. Although something tells me Lan Sheng is an.. exception amongst the rest of the second-class disciples.
As I leaned back in my chair, savoring the warmth and comfort of the inn, my thoughts drifted back to the time when the Silent Moon Sect had visited Qingmu. The memory of first seeing them was still fresh in my mind¡ªtheir presence had been overwhelming.
The way they had been so adamant that Feng Wu and I not interfere when the Wind Serpents attacked... They wanted no uncertainty about whose territory this was, even at the cost of potential casualties.
I wondered if the Silent Moon Sect had visited again since then. Had they come to collect more tributes? The thought made me uneasy, as well as the idea of seeing Xu Ziqing.
Just as I was about to ask Hua Yin, I noticed Hua Lingsheng entering the inn from outside, his cheeks flushed from the cold. He spotted me and immediately brightened, rushing over with the same enthusiasm he¡¯d shown the day before.
¡°Elder Brother Kai!¡± he greeted, his voice full of excitement. ¡°Did you sleep well?¡±
¡°I did, thanks to your family¡¯s hospitality,¡± I replied, giving him a warm smile. ¡°Actually, I was just thinking¡ Have you or anyone else in the village seen the Silent Moon Sect since they last came?¡±
¡°No, we haven¡¯t seen them since they came to help after the Wind Serpents attacked. They collected their tribute, and then¡ nothing.¡±
That was a relief, at least for now. But I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that their absence wasn¡¯t entirely due to benevolence.
Lan Sheng, still working his way through another bowl of noodles, finally spoke up. ¡°It¡¯s likely they¡¯re focusing their manpower inward after Elder Jun took power. Consolidating their strength, dealing with any internal challenges¡ It makes sense that they wouldn¡¯t be too concerned with a small village like Qingmu for the time being, as valuable as it is.¡±
I blinked, confused at the last part of his sentence.
"Valuable? How so?"
"Well, it''s a crossroad for many traders traveling to further villages, including your hometown," He explained, setting down his bowl. "It might look unassuming, but it¡¯s a vital hub for trade in this region. The merchants pass through here, bringing goods from all over and distributing them to smaller, more remote villages. It¡¯s a lifeline, really.¡±
I blinked, taken aback by the information. And even moreso by Lan Sheng''s articulate reply. ¡°I had no idea. It didn¡¯t seem like much when I first arrived.¡±
The man chuckled, giving me a knowing look. ¡°Ah, Kai, are you looking down on Qingmu? Just because it doesn¡¯t look like Crescent Bay or some bustling city doesn¡¯t mean it isn¡¯t important. I thought you''d know better than to judge a book by its cover.¡±
I quickly shook my head, a hint of panic rising in my chest. ¡°No, that¡¯s not what I meant! I just¡ª¡±
Before I could finish, Hua Lingsheng burst out laughing, the sound light and genuine. ¡°It¡¯s alright, Elder Brother Kai! We know Qingmu doesn¡¯t look like much. The truth is, the area isn¡¯t rich in natural resources, so it¡¯s hard to expand or accommodate a larger population. We¡¯re heavily reliant on the trade that passes through here, which is why the village is smaller than you might expect.¡±
The younger boy beamed at me. ¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯re so grateful to you, Elder Brother Kai. Without you, we might not have had the chance to rebuild and keep the trade routes open. You¡¯ve done more for us than you know.¡±
¡°I... I¡¯m glad I could help,¡± I replied softly, ¡°and I¡¯ll do my best to continue supporting Qingmu, however I can.¡±
Just as the warmth of the moment settled in, a sudden, sharp feeling of wariness pierced my thoughts¡ªan emotion that wasn¡¯t my own. I immediately recognized it as coming from Tianyi. Her usually serene presence had become taut, like a bowstring drawn too tight.
At the same time, Lan Sheng paused, his easygoing demeanor shifting as his eyes narrowed toward the door. ¡°Something¡¯s happening outside,¡± he said, his voice low and serious.
Without another word, we all rose from our seats and moved toward the door, the tension palpable. As we stepped outside, the source of Tianyi¡¯s unease became clear. A commotion was brewing in the village square, and a crowd was quickly forming.
Pushing our way through the gathering villagers, we soon saw what had drawn their attention. A group of cultivators, dressed in deep orange robes, were parading through the square. At their center was the massive corpse of an Iron Boar, its thick hide marred with fresh wounds. The beast¡¯s tusks gleamed in the morning light, a testament to the formidable creature it had been in life.
Standing proudly atop the boar¡¯s carcass was a young cultivator, his posture exuding arrogance as he addressed the crowd.
¡°Behold!¡± he declared, his voice booming across the square. ¡°This mighty beast was felled by none other than I, Shan Huai of the Iron Claw sect!¡±
The villagers murmured amongst themselves, clearly impressed, but the bravado in Shan Huai¡¯s tone made me inwardly groan. Of course, something like this would happen the moment I arrived. Why did events always seem to spiral out of control when I was nearby?
Lan Sheng shot me a knowing glance, his expression wry. ¡°Looks like we¡¯ve got ourselves a show-off. What do you think, Kai? Should we see what all the fuss is about?¡±
I sighed, already feeling the headache coming on. ¡°Might as well. But something tells me this is going to be more trouble than it¡¯s worth.¡±
With that, we moved closer to the front of the crowd, ready to see just what kind of spectacle the cultivators were planning to put on.
122. The Rumbling Thunder, Shan Huai
The crowd¡¯s chatter swelled around us as the man leading the group stepped forward, his orange robes fluttering slightly in the morning breeze. The arrogance radiating from him was palpable, and it wasn¡¯t hard to see why. With a cocky grin plastered on his face, he planted his foot callously on the corpse of the Iron Boar, his posture exuding the self-assurance of someone who had no doubt about his superiority.
¡°People of Qingmu!¡± he called out, his voice reverberating across the square. ¡°I am Shan Huai, the Rumbling Thunder, second-class disciple of the Iron Claw Sect! This beast you see before you¡ªa vicious Iron Boar¡ªwas stalking the outskirts of your village, threatening your very lives. But fear not, for I and my comrades have vanquished it, ensuring your safety!¡±
"Iron Claw sect?" I turned to Lan Sheng beside me. He shrugged, likely having never heard of the name himself.
The villagers gasped, murmuring among themselves as they regarded the massive beast¡¯s corpse. Both of us stepped closer to get a better look at the Iron Boar.
As we approached, I could see the boar¡¯s body in greater detail.
It was the genuine article, alright.
The Iron Boar was a formidable beast, known for its thick hide that was said to be as tough as metal¡ªhence the name. But what caught my attention were the wounds that marred its side. Three deep gouges ran along its flank, the flesh torn clean through to the bone. The blood that had seeped from the wounds was dried now.
Lan Sheng leaned in slightly, his voice low. ¡°Those gouges¡ they¡¯re not from some wild, flailing attack. Those are precise strikes, deep and lethal."
The realization settled in, heavy and undeniable. Shan Huai wasn¡¯t just blowing hot air. They had actually defeated this monster, a feat that shouldn''t be underestimated. While not as notorious as Wind Serpents, these creatures were still formidable opponents.
Tianyi fluttered slightly on my shoulder, her wings giving off a faint, uneasy hum. I felt a prickle of unease myself. This guy wasn¡¯t just some arrogant braggart.
The man, oblivious to¡ªor perhaps reveling in¡ªthe attention he was receiving, continued his proclamation. ¡°The Iron Boar is known for its resilience and power, but it was no match for the might of the Iron Claw Sect! We have saved your village from certain destruction. Remember this day, for it is the day the Rumbling Thunder of the Iron Claw Sect ensured your safety!¡±
Shan Huai¡¯s voice boomed across the square as he continued, his tone shifting from boastful to derisive. ¡°But where was the Silent Moon Sect, huh? The so-called protectors of Qingmu? Nowhere to be seen, of course. They¡¯ve left you to fend for yourselves, only showing up when it¡¯s time to collect their tribute. It¡¯s clear they don¡¯t value this village¡ªdon¡¯t value you. But don''t worry! The Iron Claw Sect will not stand for such neglect and injustice.¡±
The villagers exchanged uneasy glances, the tension in the air thickening as Shan Huai¡¯s words settled over them.
¡°We, the Iron Claw Sect,¡± He continued, his voice rising with righteous indignation, ¡°are willing to step in where the Silent Moon Sect has failed. We will take our rightful place as your protectors, and unlike them, we won¡¯t demand exorbitant tributes. We ask for far less¡ªonly what is fair and just.¡±
Ah. This is where it always goes.
Lan Sheng and I exchanged a sharp look. It was clear now what Shan Huai was up to. This wasn¡¯t just about showing off his skills or gaining the village¡¯s admiration. This was a calculated move to undermine the Silent Moon Sect and seize control of Qingmu. The implications were dangerous¡ªif the Silent Moon Sect discovered that the Iron Claw was encroaching on their territory...
Before I could voice my concerns, the village head, an older man with a weathered face and a humble demeanor, stepped forward. His hands trembled slightly as he clasped them in front of him, bowing deeply to Shan Huai. ¡°We are grateful for your help, truly we are,¡± he began, his voice respectful yet tinged with anxiety. ¡°But¡ª¡±
Shan Huai¡¯s expression darkened, his eyes narrowing as he cut the village head off. ¡°But what? Are you rejecting the favor of the Iron Claw Sect? Are you spitting in our faces after we saved you from certain death?¡±
The village head¡¯s eyes widened, his face paling as he realized the gravity of the situation. He tried to backtrack, his words tumbling out in a rush. ¡°No, no, of course not! We are thankful, it¡¯s just that... we cannot so easily switch our allegiance. The Silent Moon Sect has protected us for years, and¡ª¡±
¡°Protected?¡± The man sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. ¡°They¡¯ve done nothing but take from you! And now, when another spirit beast comes¡ªbecause make no mistake, it will come¡ªwhat will you do? Beg the Silent Moon Sect to save you again? And if they don¡¯t come? What then?¡±
His words hung in the air, heavy and oppressive. The villagers murmured anxiously, their fear palpable. I could almost see the doubt creeping into their minds, the seeds of mistrust being planted.
Lan Sheng shifted beside me, his expression hardening. ¡°This isn¡¯t good,¡± he muttered under his breath. ¡°If they push this too far, the Silent Moon Sect will retaliate, and Qingmu will be caught in the crossfire.¡±
I nodded, my mind racing as I tried to think of a way to defuse the situation. Spirit beast sightings had been rising throughout the region, and Shan Huai¡¯s threat wasn¡¯t just an empty boast. The village was vulnerable, and the fear of being left unprotected was a powerful motivator.
My thoughts raced as I took in the scene. The villagers were being cornered, coerced into accepting protection they didn¡¯t fully understand. The implications were dire¡ªif they agreed, it could be seen as a betrayal by the Silent Moon Sect. If they refused, they risked angering the Iron Claw Sect. Either choice seemed to lead to ruin.
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Then something caught my eye. The deep gouges on the Iron Boar¡¯s side¡ the younger disciples surrounding Shan Huai. Their clothes, demeanor, and cleanliness.
The pieces started to fit together, and I realized there was a way to turn this situation around.
But how?
''Wait... that''s right!''
I glanced at Lan Sheng, wondering if I should involve him in my plan, but quickly decided against it. This needed to be my move.
Leaning slightly toward the second-class disciple, I whispered, ¡°I have an idea. Trust me on this.¡±
Lan Sheng¡¯s brow furrowed, clearly confused, but he gave a slight nod. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m with you.¡±
Taking a deep breath, I stepped forward, raising my hand in an extremely meek and timid manner. I even forced a slight stutter into my voice as I spoke. ¡°E-excuse me¡ I, um, I have a suggestion.¡±
Shan Huai¡¯s eyes snapped to me, a mixture of annoyance and curiosity flickering in them. He made a brief glance at Lan Sheng, but quickly turned his eyes back to me. ¡°Who are you?¡±
¡°I¡¯m just an alchemist, visiting family here,¡± I said, keeping my voice small and unthreatening. ¡°But, uh, I couldn¡¯t help overhearing your conversation, and I think there¡¯s a way to resolve this¡ for both sides.¡±
Shan Huai raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued but also skeptical. ¡°Oh? And how do you propose we do that?¡±
I took another deep breath, forcing myself to maintain the timid act. ¡°With a demonstration,¡± I said, my voice trembling just enough to make it sound like I was nervous. ¡°A simple contest¡ between you and me.¡±
"A contest?" Shan Huai repeated, his tone dripping with incredulity as a smirk played at the corners of his lips. The crowd''s murmurs grew louder, the villagers exchanging uneasy glances, unsure of what to make of my proposal.
"Y-yes," I stammered, playing up the meekness as much as I could. "A spar-"
"Sorry, could I speak with my friend here for a moment?"
Just as I got the word "spar" out of my mouth, Lan Sheng suddenly stepped forward, grabbing me by the arm and pulling me aside, a few steps out of the crowd of villagers. His grip was tight, and I could see the panic in his eyes.
"Are you out of your mind, Kai?!" he hissed, shaking me slightly. "Have you lost your brain somewhere along the way to Qingmu? Why in the world are you picking a fight with a second-class disciple? Did you forget everything I told you about how increased qi reserves don¡¯t automatically mean you can fight against us?"
I swallowed hard, trying to stay calm despite the intensity of his reaction. "Trust me on this," I whispered, grabbing his arms to steady him. "Just look closer at them. Fighting a beast of the Iron Boar¡¯s caliber should have left some visible signs of struggle¡ªtorn robes, bloodstains, or at least some dirt and grime. But they¡¯re completely unscathed. Doesn¡¯t that raise any red flags for you?"
Lan Sheng frowned, his eyes narrowing as he cast another glance at Shan Huai and his group. I could see the wheels turning in his mind, his expression shifting as he began to piece together what I was suggesting.
"Think about it," I continued urgently. "They¡¯re not even carrying weapons that would be capable of piercing the Iron Boar¡¯s hide. They¡¯re claiming they took it down with their bare fists. Now, either they attacked the boar when it was already weakened, or they¡¯re powerful enough to dispatch such a beast without breaking a sweat. Either way, something¡¯s off."
Lan Sheng¡¯s grip on my arms loosened slightly, his gaze growing more thoughtful as he processed my words. "So, what¡¯s your plan, then? Why the sparring challenge? Why don''t I spar in your stead? It''s basically the reason why I''m here. So your ass doesn''t get itself into trouble."
I took a deep breath, shaking my head as I tried to explain. "That¡¯s exactly the problem, Lan Sheng. If you take up the challenge, he¡¯ll be more on guard, knowing you¡¯re a second-class disciple like him. He won¡¯t let his guard down so easily. But me? I¡¯m just an unassuming alchemist¡ªno sect affiliation, no reputation to worry about. He¡¯ll underestimate me, and that¡¯s what we need right now."
Lan Sheng¡¯s eyes searched mine, still full of doubt, but I could see that my reasoning was starting to get through to him. "Kai, this is risky. If they really did take down that Iron Boar with their bare fists, then we¡¯re dealing with some seriously powerful people here."
"Exactly," I replied, my voice firm. "If they¡¯re as strong as they claim, they would¡¯ve already challenged the Silent Moon Sect directly. But they haven¡¯t. Instead, they¡¯re trying to exploit the death of the Iron Boar to gain leverage over the village. That¡¯s a red flag. If I¡¯m right, and this is all just a bluff, then I can expose them and drive them away without bloodshed. And if... If I¡¯m wrong, then at least we¡¯ll know the village is under the protection of someone who¡¯s actually strong enough to stand against the Silent Moon Sect."
Lan Sheng let out a long sigh, his shoulders slumping slightly as he finally relented. "Alright, Kai. I don¡¯t like it, but I¡¯ll trust you on this. Just be careful, okay?"
"I will," I promised, giving him a reassuring nod. "And if things start to go south, don¡¯t hesitate to step in."
With that, I turned back to the crowd, trying to keep my nerves in check as I approached Shan Huai once more. The man was watching me with a curious, almost amused expression as if he were trying to figure out what my angle was.
"You''re awfully close to the second-class disciple of the Verdant Lotus Sect," Shan Huai remarked casually, his tone laced with thinly veiled disdain. "But you should know that just because our titles are the same doesn¡¯t mean our skills are. The Verdant Lotus is full of scholars and alchemists, not warriors."
I bit my tongue, forcing down the urge to snap back at him. Instead, I kept my expression meek and nodded in agreement. "You¡¯re right, of course. The Verdant Lotus is known for its knowledge and alchemy, not for its martial prowess." I took a deep breath, then added, "That¡¯s why a sparring demonstration would be so valuable. It would help us common folk better understand and appreciate your incredible skills. I mean, it¡¯s almost hard to believe that you defeated such an incredible beast with just your bare hands."
I could see the hint of a smirk forming on the second-class disciple''s lips, and I knew I had him. I decided to sweeten the deal. "And, to make it more interesting, if you win, I¡¯ll offer you a selection of my finest potions as a reward. After all, I may not be much of a fighter, but I am an alchemist."
Shan Huai¡¯s eyes gleamed with interest at the mention of potions, and I knew I had him hooked. "Alright, alchemist," he said, his voice dripping with condescension. "I accept your terms. What are the rules?"
"Simple," I replied, keeping my tone deferential. "All I have to do is land one hit on you to win, but for you to win, you must make me yield. But, uh, I have a small request." I hesitated, as if unsure whether I should even be asking. "Since I¡¯m no warrior, I was hoping I could have my spirit beast companions support me in the spar. It¡¯s the very least I¡¯d need to hold a candle to the mighty Rumbling Thunder."
His smirk widened, his ego clearly stroked by my words. "Spirit beasts, huh? Fine. Let¡¯s see what your little pets can do. It won¡¯t make a difference, but I¡¯ll humor you."
I nodded gratefully, gesturing to Tianyi, who fluttered innocently on my shoulder. "This is Tianyi," I introduced her, watching as she gave a delicate flap of her wings, the very picture of harmlessness. "And as for the other... would you mind waking him up?"
''Of course.''
I hesitated, realizing I would have to call Windy out from where he was still curled up, sleeping in the inn. She fluttered slowly over to the closed window, glowing subtly as she did so. Not even a moment later, the window clicked open with a smooth move, and the hatchling slithered out with indifferent eyes.
"This is Windy," I said, gently patting the serpentine spirit beast¡¯s head. "With them by my side, I might just be able to give you a challenge worthy of your title."
As Windy coiled around my shoulders, I couldn''t help but notice the flicker of greed and desire that crossed Shan Huai¡¯s eyes. He hid it well, but for a brief moment, it was there¡ªan unmistakable glint of avarice as he took in the sight of my spirit beasts. However, the smug grin quickly returned to his face, and he seemed unconcerned, as if dismissing the idea that my two companions could pose any real threat.
¡°You know, the world is wide and vast, full of mysteries and hidden dangers,¡± Shan Huai said, his tone patronizing. ¡°But if you think a couple of minor spirit beasts and an untrained alchemist will change anything, then you¡¯re sorely mistaken.¡±
I met his condescending gaze, my heart pounding in my chest, though I kept my expression composed. His arrogance was a double-edged sword¡ªdangerous, yes, but also something I could use to my advantage. He saw me as insignificant, someone barely worth his attention. And that was exactly what I needed him to believe.
Windy shifted slightly, his cold scales brushing against my neck, a silent reminder of the stakes. Tianyi hovered at my shoulder, her delicate wings shimmering in the light. We were ready, even if Shan Huai didn''t think so.
"Perhaps," I replied quietly, letting just a hint of uncertainty creep into my voice.
Shan Huai smirked, clearly enjoying his perceived superiority. He glanced at his disciples, who chuckled at my words as if they were nothing more than the ramblings of a fool. "We''ll see about that," he said, his voice dripping with disdain. "Prepare yourself, alchemist. I''ll make sure this is over quickly."
I nodded, swallowing the nerves that threatened to bubble to the surface. The crowd was silent now, all eyes on us, waiting for the clash that could determine the future of their village.
123. A Meek Fa?ade, A Strong Strike
Lan Sheng stepped forward, moving in between Shan Huai and me with a sharp breath. ¡°I¡¯ll serve as witness and mediator for this spar,¡± he declared, his voice clear and commanding as his eyes flicked over to Shan Huai. ¡°Kai Liu¡¯s task is to land a single hit on you, while your goal is to make him yield.¡±
He barely acknowledged Lan Sheng¡¯s words, raising a hand to pick his ear as if the whole affair were beneath him. ¡°Yeah, yeah,¡± Shan Huai muttered dismissively, clearly unconcerned. His eyes flickered back to me, filled with the same smug confidence he had worn since the moment he arrived.
Lan Sheng, however, wasn¡¯t having it. I could see the way his jaw clenched, how he gave Shan Huai a pointed stink eye that lingered just a second too long. He then turned back to me, his posture subtly shifting as he planted himself firmly in the space between us, almost as if he was positioning himself to jump in the moment things went wrong.
For a second, I caught the second-class disciple''s eye. It was a fleeting moment, but the message was clear.
I¡¯m watching. If this gets out of hand, I¡¯ll stop it.
There was comfort in that, but at the same time, I couldn¡¯t afford to rely on him. This was my fight, my wager. If I wanted to win, I had to do it myself. Windy and Tianyi had their roles to play, but the burden ultimately rested on my shoulders.
Shan Huai¡¯s voice snapped me out of my thoughts. ¡°Hurry up and begin,¡± he sneered, tapping his foot impatiently on the ground. ¡°I¡¯ve got better things to do than waste time playing games with an alchemist.¡±
Lan Sheng looked at me, giving me a brief, sharp nod, his expression all business now. ¡°Whenever you¡¯re ready,¡± he said quietly, stepping back to give us room.
The older disciple smirked, his posture shifting as he clasped his hands behind his back, adopting a stance of complete and utter arrogance. ¡°I¡¯ll even give you the first three moves. Consider it a form of mercy,¡± he declared, his voice oozing with condescension. His eyes gleamed with self-assuredness, the assumption that this fight would be over before it even began.
I swallowed, keeping up my meek facade as I bowed slightly in thanks. ¡°Th-that¡¯s very generous of you,¡± I stammered, putting on the act. Inside, my thoughts raced.
''He¡¯s already written me off. Perfect.''
Straightening up, I cast a glance at my companions. ¡°Well, if that¡¯s the case... let¡¯s not waste any time,¡± I said softly, then gestured to the two spirit beasts. ¡°Tianyi, Windy, would you two be so kind as to... begin?¡±
The butterfly''s wings glowed brighter in response, her small form radiating with a sudden intensity. She flapped once¡ªjust once¡ªbut it was enough to stir the air into a violent gust. The snow, dirt and debris that littered the ground were whipped up in an instant, swirling toward Shan Huai with alarming speed.
Caught off guard, he instinctively raised his hand as the wind hit his face, sending dirt into his eyes.
That single moment of blindness was all Windy needed.
With a sharp hiss and uncoiling of his powerful muscles, the serpent sprang into action. He closed the gap in an instant, his jaws snapping open as he aimed straight for the man''s face.
"Urgh!"
The second-class disciple barely managed to twist his head aside, avoiding Windy¡¯s fangs by the width of a hair. But before he could fully recover, Windy¡¯s tail lashed out in mid-air, whipping across his eyes with a resounding slap.
¡°Argh!¡± Shan Huai stumbled back, blinking furiously as his vision was blurred further. His smug confidence wavered, confusion flickering across his face.
I hadn¡¯t even moved yet, still rooted in place as I watched the scene unfold.
Tianyi wasn¡¯t finished. As Shan Huai reeled from the blow, she darted forward with shocking speed, her wings cutting through the air with the sharpness of blades. The glow surrounding her flared, and she dove forward in the gap between his arm and torso, ripping open his orange robe.
The man snarled as the fabric of his robe tore, his expression shifting from confusion to fury. The arrogance that had previously dominated his face was now replaced with a burning frustration. He planted his feet, his body tensing as he dropped into a low, crouched stance. His fingers curled into claw-like shapes.
With a sharp growl, Shan parried Windy¡¯s next tail strike, his reflexes sharp despite the debris in his eyes. There was power in his movements, but he was still off-balance, still reacting to the unpredictable assault from both beasts.
Before he could capitalize on the parry, Tianyi darted in front of his face once again, her shimmering wings flickering with light, obscuring his vision. Shan Huai swung wildly at her, his claws slashing through the air, but she was already gone¡ªretreating just as quickly as she had appeared.
That brief distraction gave Windy the time he needed to retreat, his serpentine body curling back toward me as he readied his next strike.
They¡¯re toying with him.
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Windy and Tianyi were moving around Shan Huai with a speed and precision that I hadn¡¯t even fully grasped until now. Their coordination was flawless, their agility far beyond what I had expected. Shan Huai was left swinging at nothing, his strikes falling short as they made him look like a bumbling child trying to swat at flies.
My heart pounded in my chest as I stood there, frozen. I hadn¡¯t expected the fight to be so one-sided. A second-class disciple had come in with all the confidence in the world, but now... now he was being humiliated.
And the most shocking part? I hadn¡¯t even made a move yet.
BAP!
"Wh-"
CRACK!
I caught myself mid-step, realizing I was about to rush in. But for what? To help? They didn¡¯t need me. In fact, I was starting to wonder if they had been holding back in our sparring sessions the entire time. How else could I explain the absolute thrashing they were giving Shan Huai now?
"ENOUGH!"
His roar reverberated through the air as he slammed his hands into the snow-covered ground. The force of his qi-infused strike sent a plume of snow billowing up around him, obscuring everything in a swirling vortex of white. My vision blurred, and for a moment, all I could see was the blinding curtain of snow swirling through the air, separating us.
I blinked rapidly, trying to make out what was happening through the chaotic flurry. The intense energy from the man was palpable even from this distance. But then, through the haze, I felt it. A strong sense of urgency.
Not mine, but Tianyi''s. The bond between us flared with emotion, her telepathic voice cutting through the haze like a blade.
''Watch out!''
The warning hit me just as Shan Huai¡¯s form emerged from the snow, crouched low, his hand drawn back for a strike, qi visibly swirling around his fingers like claws. His speed was shocking, his movements silent and swift.
In that instant, I dropped into my stance, rooting myself into the earth, my legs spreading wide into the Rooted Banyan Stance. With practiced ease, I activated the technique, feeling the qi surge through my body, anchoring me deep into the ground. I braced myself as the strike came down with terrifying precision, aiming straight for my gut.
The blow landed, and for a split second, I felt the impact ripple through my body. But it didn¡¯t hurt. I stood there, rooted and steady. His triumphant expression quickly twisted into one of utter disbelief as he realized I hadn¡¯t moved an inch.
"W-What?"
I could see the confusion in his eyes as he tried to process what had just happened. Before he could pull back, I shifted my weight, planting my back foot firmly and turning in a swift, fluid motion. I launched a spinning hook kick toward his chin.
CRACK!
The kick connected with a satisfying thud, sending Shan Huai''s head snapping back as his body crumpled beneath the force of the blow. His legs gave out under him, and he collapsed onto the snow-covered ground, his limbs trembling as he tried¡ªand failed¡ªto stand.
The snow settled, the chaotic whirlwind of white dissipating into a gentle fall. Silence followed, thick and heavy, as the villagers and Iron Claw disciples stared in stunned disbelief. Shan Huai, the proud and arrogant second-class disciple of the Iron Claw Sect, lay bruised and beaten at my feet, while I remained untouched.
"The match is over. Victory goes to Kai Liu!" Lan Sheng announced.
My heart was still hammering in my chest, the adrenaline from the fight coursing through my veins despite how easily it had ended. I glanced down at Shan Huai, his body crumpled in the snow, struggling to regain his footing. The man was strong; individually, he would''ve beaten the three of us handily. But together? No chance.
"You hid your strength!" he spat, his voice hoarse with frustration. "I demand a rematch¡ªthis was a trick!"
I shook my head, stepping forward slowly, my gaze steady on him. "I didn¡¯t hide anything," I said, my voice calm. "You underestimated me. That¡¯s all."
"Lies!" Shan Huai roared, his face twisted with fury. "You¡¯re no mere alchemist¡ªyou¡¯re a disciple of a sect, aren¡¯t you?!"
I met his eyes, snorting. "I swear on my name, I¡¯m not a disciple of any sect. I¡¯ve only been learning martial arts for less than a year."
Lan Sheng stepped forward, his arms crossed over his chest as he nodded in agreement. "It¡¯s true," he said firmly. "He''s an alchemist, one that participated in the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet."
Shan Huai¡¯s eyes darted between the two of us, his disbelief clear. But I could see it¡ªhe was rattled. His entire worldview had just been upended by what he thought was an insignificant alchemist.
I bent down, lowering my voice as I leaned closer to him. "And I know you didn¡¯t kill that Iron Boar."
His eyes widened, a flicker of panic crossing his face for the briefest of moments. I continued my words, just loud enough for him to hear. "If you don¡¯t want to be exposed here and now¡ªlosing to a mere alchemist in front of everyone¡ªthen I suggest you take your disciples and leave. Quietly."
Shan Huai¡¯s expression twisted with a mix of anger and shame. He opened his mouth as if to retort, but no words came. He knew I had him cornered.
I straightened up, turning to face the gathered crowd. "Is there anyone else who would like to challenge me?" I called out, my voice carrying through the still air. My gaze swept over the third-class disciples of the Iron Claw Sect, each of them turning away, their eyes downcast and shoulders slumped in defeat.
There was no response. The fight had been won, and everyone knew it.
Shan Huai grit his teeth, his body shaking with barely suppressed rage. But he knew he had no choice. "Retreat," he growled, his voice barely audible as he gave the order to his disciples.
In an instant, the group of Iron Claw disciples moved to follow him, their previous arrogance now replaced by a humbled silence. They left the Iron Boar¡¯s corpse behind as they made their swift departure, their retreat echoing the sound of their defeat.
The villagers, who had been watching in tense silence, began to murmur amongst themselves, relief and awe flooding the air. I could feel their eyes on me, but all I felt was the cold breeze brushing against my skin.
As I stood there in the falling snow, watching the Iron Claw Sect disappear from sight, I couldn''t help but feel a small flicker of satisfaction settle in my chest.
I won.
Not one where I was left bruised and broken like my encounter with Ping Hai of the Silent Moon Sect. That fight had ended with me barely able to stand, and Ping Hai had walked away nearly unscathed. But this? This was different. I had won¡ªagainst a second-class disciple no less¡ªand I stood here, untouched.
It wasn¡¯t just a fluke, either. This wasn¡¯t a narrow escape where I managed to pull victory from the jaws of defeat. And yet, the irony of it wasn¡¯t lost on me. I had barely even fought. It was Tianyi and Windy who had humiliated Shan Huai, who had toyed with him and shown their strength in a way that I hadn¡¯t anticipated.
But still¡ I¡¯d come a long way.
A year ago, I wouldn¡¯t have dreamed of standing in a situation like this. I was no Lan Sheng, no Feng Wu, no Ping Hai, but I had won. And for the first time since the Gauntlet, I felt the subtle burn of accomplishment, that taste of victory lingering on my tongue, sweeter than anything I could have imagined.
Lan Sheng stepped beside me, his arms crossed, and his usual playful demeanor softened by a quiet respect. ¡°You really surprised me there,¡± he muttered, glancing sideways at me. ¡°I was ready to step in at any moment, but¡ I guess I didn¡¯t need to, huh?¡±
I let out a breath, one I hadn¡¯t realized I¡¯d been holding. ¡°It wasn¡¯t just me. Windy and Tianyi were incredible.¡±
Lan Sheng nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. ¡°They were. But don¡¯t sell yourself short, Kai. That Rooted Banyan Stance... You held strong, even when he went in for the kill.¡±
I blinked, absorbing his words. I¡¯d reacted purely on instinct, relying on the stance I¡¯d practiced countless times. It had worked, and yet, there was still a sense of disbelief washing over me. I wasn¡¯t used to feeling victorious like this. Not when the stakes were so high.
¡°Well, looks like you¡¯re on a roll, Kai. First Ping Hai, and now this? You¡¯re making a habit of pissing off sect disciples. If we leave you alone for a little longer, I can see you finding a way to provoke the Whispering Wind Sect as well!¡±
I chuckled softly, shaking my head. ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for this.¡±
¡°No one ever does,¡± he replied, giving me a knowing look. ¡°But you handled it like a pro. You¡¯ve come a long way, Kai. And you¡¯re only going to keep getting stronger.¡±
Stronger. The word echoed in my mind as I looked out at the villagers, at the snow-covered ground where Shan Huai had fallen, and at my companions who stood by my side. I wasn¡¯t sure what the future held or what other challenges would come my way, but one thing was certain¡ªI wasn¡¯t the same alchemist who had stumbled into the Jianghu nearly a year ago.
I had changed.
And for the first time, I was starting to believe that I could stand my ground.
¡°We should get inside before we freeze to death,¡± Lan Sheng added with a smirk, shaking the snow from his sleeves. ¡°Victory¡¯s sweeter with a hot bowl of soup.¡±
I nodded, feeling the cold seep into my bones now that the adrenaline was fading. But beneath it all, that spark of victory remained, warming me from the inside out.
As we made our way back toward the inn, I couldn¡¯t help but glance back at the Iron Boar¡¯s corpse, still lying in the square. It was a reminder of the lie Shan Huai had tried to sell, a lie I had seen through from the beginning.
I smiled to myself, the taste of victory still fresh.
"Next time," I murmured under my breath, "it¡¯ll be even easier."
124. Price of Pride
¡°Elder Brother Kai! You were amazing!¡± he exclaimed, practically bouncing on his feet. ¡°You didn¡¯t even break a sweat!¡±
¡°Let this be a lesson,¡± I said, pausing to swirl the rice in my bowl before taking a bite. ¡°Underestimating your opponent is like grasping fire with your bare hands¡ªby the time you realize the danger, the damage is already done.¡±
Lan Sheng chuckled, swirling his own cup of wine as he raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s rich coming from the same guy who declared himself the rising genius of the province not too long ago.¡±
I shot him a playful grin. ¡°It¡¯s not arrogance if you can back it up.¡±
Laughter rippled through the inn, blending with the hum of voices and the clatter of dishes. The atmosphere was lively, a far cry from the tense showdown that had unfolded just hours earlier. Now, the villagers crowded around, offering smiles and congratulations as platters of food and jugs of wine made their rounds. Our table, in particular, was filled to the brim with delicacies¡ªroasted meats, steamed buns, fragrant broths¡ªand at the center of it all, Windy and Tianyi were being treated like royalty.
The hatchling preened under the attention, happily scarfing down whole, roasted chickens, his white scales shimmering in the firelight as he flicked his tail in contentment. A young girl with bright eyes held up another plate of meat, offering it to him with a wide smile. Windy¡¯s tongue flicked out as he accepted it, swallowing the bird whole.
Tianyi, on the other hand, was daintier in her indulgence. She perched elegantly on the edge of a wine bowl, using her delicate proboscis to slurp the wine with an almost regal air. Her wings shimmered with a faint glow, and I could sense her satisfaction as the crowd around us marveled at her beauty and grace.
I couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of embarrassment despite the lively celebration around me. Inwardly, I knew I could have approached the situation better. A more careful plan, one that didn¡¯t involve wagering with someone like Shan Huai, would have been smarter. But there had been a part of me that had wanted to throw myself into that danger, to prove something.
Not just to the village, not even to Lan Sheng, but to myself.
Ever since the Gauntlet, my confidence had been shaken. Today¡¯s victory over Shan Huai felt like regaining a sliver of that lost belief in myself, but it didn¡¯t sit as well as I¡¯d hoped. There was a selfishness in what I did, a need to reclaim something personal through this fight.
But that victory didn¡¯t come without its consequences. As I chewed on a piece of meat, my thoughts drifted back to Shan Huai. He wouldn¡¯t forget this. And if the Iron Claw Sect was truly looking to expand its influence, there was a chance they wouldn¡¯t let this humiliation slide. That brought me to a bigger problem¡ªthe rising tensions between the sects. Qingmu was just one small village, but it felt like it was caught in the middle of something much larger.
I leaned closer to Lan Sheng, lowering my voice to ask the question that had been nagging at the back of my mind. ¡°What do you think? Will Shan Huai come back and try to get revenge? Do you think the Silent Moon Sect would protect the village if things escalate?¡±
Lan Sheng¡¯s expression turned serious, the humor and ease that had filled the evening fading as he considered the implications. He put down his cup of wine and looked out toward the quieting inn, his brow furrowing slightly. ¡°It¡¯s possible,¡± he said quietly. ¡°If the Silent Moon Sect doesn¡¯t step in, Qingmu is going to face more trouble. And Shan Huai¡ he might not be strong enough to take revenge on his own, but sects don¡¯t act alone. He could bring others.¡±
The weight of his words settled over me like a cold wind. The Iron Claw Sect had proven they weren¡¯t above flexing their power, and if they decided to press the matter, the villagers would suffer the most.
Lan Sheng gave me a sidelong glance, his lips pressed into a thin line. ¡°But that¡¯s why I¡¯m here. As a second-class disciple, it¡¯s my job to ensure things like this don¡¯t spiral out of control. I¡¯ll send a letter to the Silent Moon Sect as soon as I can, informing them of the situation. If they know what¡¯s at stake, they might intervene.¡±Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.
¡°And if they don¡¯t?¡± I asked, though I had a sinking feeling I already knew the answer.
¡°If they don¡¯t,¡± Lan Sheng said, his voice steady but grim, ¡°then I¡¯ll stay. I¡¯ll make sure the Iron Claw Sect doesn¡¯t try anything while we wait for the Silent Moon Sect¡¯s decision. But one way or another, I¡¯ll see to it that Qingmu isn¡¯t left defenseless.¡±
His confidence was reassuring, but the uncertainty of it all still weighed heavily. Sect politics, ambitions, and power plays were beyond anything I¡¯d been prepared to face when I first left my village. Yet here I was, in the thick of it, with the fate of an entire village possibly hanging on what came next.
Lan Sheng clapped me on the shoulder, rubbing it affectionately. ¡°You did well today, Kai. You bought the village time. Now it¡¯s my turn to make sure that time isn¡¯t wasted.¡±
Shan Huai lashed out, his voice cutting through the night air as his third-class disciples trudged through the dense forest. ¡°Move faster!¡± he barked, his tone dripping with venom. Each breath he took was accompanied by a dull throb where that wretched alchemist¡¯s kick had landed.
He clenched his teeth, his fists trembling. The humiliation burned hotter than any of his wounds. How had it come to this?
How had he, a second-class disciple of the Iron Claw Sect, been brought so low by an alchemist and his pet spirit beasts?
His thoughts churned, spiraling back to the fight, to the mocking laughter of the villagers, to the boy''s calm, confident gaze as he issued that final challenge.
But more than the shame, it was the nagging question that gnawed at him¡ªhow had that alchemist seen through their scheme? How had he known they hadn¡¯t killed the Iron Boar?
The very thought made Shan¡¯s stomach twist. The Iron Boar had been a stroke of fortune, a gift from the heavens. When they had stumbled upon it already dying from injuries sustained in a battle with another beast, it had seemed like the perfect opportunity. Claiming the kill would earn them glory, influence, and leverage over Qingmu Village. They hadn¡¯t anticipated that anyone would question the story. Who would dare challenge the might of the Iron Claw Sect?
But that damned alchemist had. Somehow, he had seen through the ruse, and now that knowledge hung over Shan Huai like a blade. The very thing that should have been a boon had turned into a weapon of blackmail¡ªsomething Kai Liu, and by extension, the Verdant Lotus Sect¡ªcould use against him.
¡°Senior Brother Shan...¡± One of the third-class disciples trailed off, his voice hesitant, clearly sensing the fury radiating from Shan Huai.
¡°What?¡± He snapped, his jaw clenched. ¡°Spit it out!¡±
The disciple flinched, his gaze darting away. ¡°D-do you think¡ we¡¯ll be in trouble with the sect if they find out about...¡±
¡°Shut up!¡± Shan Huai¡¯s voice was a low growl, his eyes narrowing into dangerous slits. He didn¡¯t need reminding. He already knew the consequences. If the elders of the Iron Claw Sect learned of this, his position¡ªhis very future¡ªwould be at risk. And worse, if Kai Liu decided to spread that knowledge, it could ruin everything. He¡¯d be seen as a fool, a liar, and worse still¡ªa weakling.
"Keep moving," He hissed, his voice barely controlled. "We¡¯ll regroup, and I¡¯ll figure out a way to fix this. But mark my words... that alchemist will regret the day he ever crossed me."
The disciples quickened their pace, none daring to speak further. As they moved deeper into the forest, Shan Huai¡¯s mind spun with plans and counter-plans, desperate to regain control of the situation before it spiraled any further.
¡°Kai Liu...¡± He whispered, his voice filled with venom.
He could still hear the villagers muttering the name, their awe palpable. They celebrated his humiliation. The shame twisted in his gut like a knife.
The Iron Claw Sect couldn''t afford this kind of disgrace, and neither could he. But how to handle it?
The snapping of branches underfoot drew him out of his thoughts. The third-class disciples trudged behind him, slower than he liked, their eyes wary as they glanced at their surroundings.
¡°Move faster!¡± Shan Huai barked, the sharpness of his voice startling them into action. He ground his teeth, fury and frustration fueling him. He needed control. He needed a way to regain what had been stolen from him.
But as they trudged onward, his eyes caught something ahead¡ªa figure standing in the middle of their path.
An old man, frail and decrepit, with thin, tangled hair draped over his face like a curtain of neglect. He wore a tattered robe, his bare feet planted on the cold forest floor.
The man was muttering under his breath, his words low and unintelligible. His presence was unnatural¡ªout of place in the stillness of the woods.
¡°What is this?¡± Shan Huai growled, irritation flaring as he clenched his fists. His hands curled into tight claws, ready to strike.
¡°Out of the way, old man,¡± he barked, his voice filled with impatience and pain. ¡°Move, before I make you regret it.¡±
The figure didn¡¯t move. His head hung low, and his body swayed gently as if the wind itself was pushing him. He continued mumbling, the words slipping through his cracked lips, but they made no sense.
Shan Huai¡¯s patience, already stretched thin, snapped. ¡°I said move!¡± he roared, stepping forward, his arms tensing with barely contained qi, ready to unleash a strike.
Slowly, the old man¡¯s head lifted. His eyes were clouded, vacant, and his smile twisted into something unnatural¡ªa grin that seemed to crawl up his face like it didn¡¯t belong there. His voice, though still soft, became clear enough to understand, sending a cold shiver through the group.
¡°Are you the ones... who took it?¡±
Shan Huai¡¯s fists tightened. ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood for your riddles, old man. Move, or I¡¯ll make you regret standing in my way.¡±
The old man¡¯s smile widened, an eerie, almost otherworldly grin stretching across his face. ¡°Then¡ you will take its place.¡±
His voice dropped to a whisper, his eyes gleaming with a dark, chilling intent. ¡°You¡ will become our nourishment.¡±
The second-class disciple felt the air around them change, a chill creeping in, unnatural and foreboding. His instincts screamed at him, but his fury overpowered the warning. ¡°Enough! You¡¯re wasting my time,¡± he growled. His eyes flashed to his disciples, his patience long gone. ¡°Take him down.¡±
The third-class disciples hesitated only for a moment before they obeyed, cracking their knuckles and spreading into their stances. They were martial artists, their hands were their weapons, and they were used to breaking bones with a single blow. Without hesitation, they surged forward, fists and claws ready to strike the frail old man down.
But as they closed in, something in the air shifted again¡ªsomething darker.
125. Winds of Change, Roots of Home
The night had settled over Qingmu, quiet and cool, the air filled with the faint scent of woodsmoke. Most of the villagers had retired for the night, but I was still awake, crouched next to the cart as I double-checked the supplies. We would be leaving soon, continuing the long journey back to my home village. If Lan Sheng wanted to be present in the village before the Iron Claw sect could cook up a scheme, we''d need to speed things up.
I hadn¡¯t expected to stay in Qingmu this long, and part of me was eager to get back on the road, away from the looming threat of sect politics and Shan Huai¡¯s bruised ego.
I tightened the ropes on a bundle of hay and sighed. Despite the victory, my mind was restless, running through the events of the past few days. Sure, I¡¯d won, but it wasn¡¯t the kind of victory I could take lightly. They wouldn''t forget the embarrassment I''d caused them.
Damned cultivators and their obsession with face... But then again, I was partially to blame for taking advantage of it.
I glanced around, the silence of the village only broken by the occasional rustle of leaves in the night breeze. The shadows seemed longer now, stretching out from the trees like old memories.
As I was about to secure another bundle, a soft voice called out from behind me. ¡°Elder Brother Kai.¡±
I turned to see Hua Lingsheng walking toward me, his usual bright energy somewhat subdued in the dim light. His hands were clasped behind his back, and he wore a slightly awkward expression, like he had something important to say but wasn¡¯t sure how to approach it.
¡°What are you doing up this late?¡± I asked, standing up from the cart.
He smiled sheepishly. ¡°The villagers wanted to give you something. It took them a while to prepare it.¡±
Before I could ask what he meant, he stepped forward and handed me two large, rolled-up pelts. The moment I touched them, I felt the surprising weight of the gift. My hands sank under their density, and I immediately recognized the texture¡ªthick, coarse, and sturdy.
¡°Iron Boar pelts?¡± I blinked, unrolling a section to confirm it. The dark fur had a metallic sheen under the moonlight, and the leather beneath felt almost like armor. ¡°They kept this from the boar?¡±
Hua Lingsheng nodded, his smile widening. ¡°It¡¯s our way of saying thank you.We know how valuable these pelts are. They worked fast to preserve them for you.¡±
I ran my fingers over the fur, feeling the strength of the hide beneath. These pelts were no ordinary gift¡ªIron Boar leather was known for its toughness, often used in crafting armor for cultivators or reinforcing robes for battle. It could fetch a high price in the right market, and here I was, holding two pristine pelts, freely given by the villagers.
I stared at the pelts, feeling the weight of them in more ways than one. The villagers had given these to me as a sign of gratitude, but my mind drifted to Feng Wu, his unwavering righteousness, the kind of taoist who would never accept such a reward. He would have refused it outright, saying that a true cultivator doesn¡¯t act for reward or recognition.
A twinge of guilt gnawed at me. I didn¡¯t deserve this kind of gratitude, not when my motives weren¡¯t purely selfless either.
"I-I can¡¯t accept these," I stammered, thrusting the pelts back toward Hua Lingsheng. "Really, I didn¡¯t do this for a reward."
He blinked at me in surprise, then shook his head with a knowing smile. "I refuse your refusal, Elder Brother Kai."
"Wait... What?"
He grinned, stepping back as if to dodge my attempt to return the pelts. "The villagers worked hard to prepare these, and they want you to have them. It¡¯s their way of showing gratitude, and it would be disrespectful to refuse. So¡ I refuse your refusal!"
I stared at him, half-exasperated, half-amused. "That¡¯s not how it works, you know."
"It is now," he said, crossing his arms with a self-satisfied nod. "So you¡¯d better just take them before you make things awkward."
I chuckled despite myself, shaking my head.
As if on cue, Lan Sheng appeared from the inn, carrying a half-asleep Windy draped around his shoulders and Tianyi perched on his arm.
"You ready?" he asked, adjusting Windy, who let out a lazy hiss and stared at me sleepily.
I gave the cart one last tug to make sure everything was in place, then turned to him with a nod. "Yeah. Let¡¯s get going."
Hua Lingsheng waved with both hands, a small but happy smile lighting up his face. ¡°Farewell, Elder Brother Kai! Safe travels!¡±
I waved back from the seat of the cart. No grand send-off, no crowd of villagers, just Hua Lingsheng standing there in the quiet village under the soft glow of the full moon.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.
"See you soon," I called back as I clicked the reins, urging the horses forward. The cart began to move, wheels creaking as they rolled over the dirt path, and the horses picked up their pace into a brisk trot.
The boy stood at the edge of the village, waving until he was just a small figure in the distance. The road stretched out before us, dark and empty, illuminated only by the moon hanging above. The village of Qingmu quickly faded behind us, leaving nothing but the soft sounds of hooves clattering against the earth and the occasional rustling of leaves in the night breeze.
Lan Sheng, sitting beside me with Windy curled on his lap, was quiet. He didn¡¯t seem to have much to say now that we were on the move. Maybe, like me, he was lost in his thoughts.
But there was no use dwelling on what had already happened. We were on our way to Gentle Wind Village now, and there was still a long road ahead. Instead of letting my mind wander, I decided to focus on something more productive.
I shifted in my seat and closed my eyes, letting out a slow breath as I started cycling my qi, drawing it in from the air around me, focusing on its flow. It had been a while since I¡¯d had a quiet moment to cultivate, and I needed to keep refining my techniques if I wanted to improve.
Tianyi, resting lightly on my shoulder, seemed to sense my intent. Without a word, her wings began to glow faintly, and a soft, calming energy radiated from her. It was as if the entire world around us had shifted, the flow of qi becoming more vibrant and responsive. I felt a sudden rush as I drew in more than I expected.
It wasn¡¯t just my imagination. Her powers had grown stronger since ingesting the beast core elixir. Her presence magnified the qi around us, making it easier to cycle larger amounts at once. I could feel it pouring into me with a smoothness I hadn¡¯t experienced before, like a river widening to accommodate a flood. My breathing slowed, and I focused on guiding the qi through my body, following the familiar paths but pushing them further, deeper.
The cart moved steadily beneath me, the horses trotting along, but all I could feel was the warmth of the qi filling my core, flowing in perfect harmony with her power.
Hours passed as the cart rumbled steadily along the dirt road, the moon still shining brightly overhead. The brisk pace of the horses continued without faltering, their hooves striking the ground rhythmically as the miles melted away. At first, I thought nothing of it, too caught up in the flow of my cultivation, but as the night dragged on, a subtle unease began to creep in.
The horses hadn¡¯t slowed once. In fact, they seemed to be moving faster than they should have for this long. Their breath, visible in the cool night air, came in regular puffs, but something about the way steam continuously rose from their flanks concerned me.
Frowning, I looked over at Lan Sheng, who was still sitting beside me, quietly observing the passing landscape. ¡°Let¡¯s stop for a moment. The horses have been keeping this pace for too long. I need to check on them.¡±
He nodded, glancing toward the horses as if just now realizing what I¡¯d pointed out. With a quick tug of the reins, he slowed the cart to a stop, and I hopped down to examine the horses more closely.
Their coats were slick with sweat, but oddly enough, they didn¡¯t look particularly tired. I ran a hand over their sides, feeling the heat radiating from their bodies. Despite how long they had been running, they weren¡¯t even panting heavily. It was strange.
Tianyi fluttered lightly from my shoulder and landed near the horses, her wings glowing faintly in the moonlight. The horses nuzzled her affectionately, their breath still calm and steady. It was as if her presence had soothed them in some way.
¡°They¡¯re not worn out,¡± I muttered to myself. But even if they seemed fine, I wasn¡¯t going to take any risks with their health. Elder Wen would have my head if I let something happen to these two.
I walked back to the cart, retrieving a few key ingredients from the supplies: licorice root and ginseng, both known for their restorative properties. With quick hands, I pulled out my Two Star Pagoda Pill Furnace from my storage ring and crouched down, gathering a handful of fresh snow from the ground and melting it into water.
As the furnace heated, I prepared the ingredients, grinding the licorice root and slicing the ginseng thinly before adding them to the water. The mixture bubbled gently, and soon a simple yet effective supplementing feed was ready. I mixed it into some hay, letting the scent of the herbs infuse the feed.
Approaching the horses once more, I offered them the enhanced hay, watching as they eagerly devoured it. Their calm demeanor reassured me, but I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something more was at play.
I turned to the butterfly, who was still perched on the cart, her wings shimmering in the moonlight. ¡°Tianyi,¡± I asked, my voice quiet, ¡°do you have something to do with this?¡±
She fluttered closer, her glowing wings brushing against the horses. A soft pulse of energy washed over them, and I could feel the faint echo of her response through our bond.
''Yes,'' her voice echoed gently in my mind. ''I can help restore their energy, just like I do for you.''
I couldn¡¯t help but smile at the realization. Tianyi¡¯s powers had grown immensely, more than I¡¯d even noticed until now. She wasn¡¯t just aiding in my cultivation, she was amplifying everything around her.
¡°You¡¯re incredible,¡± I said aloud, earning a soft hum of agreement from our bond.
With the horses now resting and eating contently, I turned back to Lan Sheng. ¡°They¡¯re in better shape than I expected,¡± I said, climbing back into the cart. ¡°We should be good to keep going after this break.¡±
The cart rolled steadily through the night once again, and as the hours passed, the familiar landscape of Gentle Wind Village finally began to take shape in the distance. The familiar silhouette of the place I once called home came into view¡ªtall trees swaying gently, casting long shadows over the quiet path. Everything looked just as I remembered, but as I sat there, watching it all come into focus, I felt an odd sense of distance settle within me.
The village was the same, but somehow different. The narrow dirt roads, the simple homes, the fields beyond... I had walked these paths a thousand times, yet now they felt like memories I was only visiting. I had left this place as one person and returned as someone else entirely.
I wasn¡¯t sure what I had expected. A small part of me had clung to the naive notion of a triumphant return, like a hero coming back from distant lands. But there was no grand celebration waiting. Just the quiet, the steady creak of the cart, and the gentle rustling of trees as the wind moved through them.
This was home, yet it wasn¡¯t. The village was a river, flowing just as it always had, but I was no longer the boy who had lived here. The battles I¡¯d fought, the lessons I¡¯d learned... they had changed me. I wasn¡¯t the same, and neither was this place, even if it looked the same on the surface.
I inhaled deeply, letting the cool morning air fill my lungs. The road stretched ahead, leading me back to where I started, but it didn¡¯t feel like a return. It felt like a continuation, another step forward into the unknown.
¡°We¡¯re here,¡± I murmured, pulling the reins gently to slow the horses to a stop just before the main path leading into the village.
Lan Sheng glanced over at me with a small smile. "What now?"
"I¡¯ll take the horses to Elder Wen¡¯s and visit Elder Ming," I said, gesturing toward my home on the outskirts of the village. "Can you take the cart, Windy, and Tianyi there? It''ll be a quick thing, I promise."
He nodded without hesitation. "Of course. I¡¯ll take care of everything while you finish up."
I handed him the reins and hopped down from the cart. As the horses snorted softly, I gave their necks a reassuring pat before guiding them down a narrow path toward Elder Wen¡¯s place. The quiet surrounded me as I walked, the only sound being the soft crunch of my boots on the dirt.
Arriving at Elder Wen¡¯s home, I tied the horses to the post near the small stable, and headed toward the door. But before I went to knock, I felt a tug toward Elder Ming¡¯s house. Knowing Elder Ming, the old man would probably already be awake, tending to his garden and sipping tea.
"If I have to bother someone first, it might as well be him..." I muttered to myself.
Giving one more glance at the horses, I jogged over to the Village Head''s home.
As I neared Elder Ming¡¯s house, the familiar creak of the old wooden gates echoed faintly in the early morning quiet. But instead of the usual peaceful silence that accompanied the village at dawn, I was met with unexpected sounds, grunts of exertion and the rhythmic thud of feet moving against the ground. It reminded me of the training grounds back at the Verdant Lotus Sect.
Curiosity piqued, I approached the slightly ajar door of the courtyard, my brow furrowing as the noises grew louder. I peered through the gap in the door, cautiously pushing it open just enough to take a look inside.
There, in the courtyard, were two familiar figures.
Wang Jun and Lan-Yin, fully engaged in martial arts conditioning exercises, sweat dripping down their foreheads as they moved through forms with a surprising level of precision. Wang Jun''s usually carefree expression was focused, his movements sharp as he executed each strike, while Lan-Yin mirrored him, her slender frame flowing with an intensity I hadn¡¯t seen in her before.
I blinked, feeling a wave of confusion wash over me.
"What the hell?"
126. Growing in Absence
Neither of them had ever expressed the slightest interest in cultivation before. I could hardly wrap my mind around the sight of them practicing martial arts so diligently, especially not in Elder Ming¡¯s courtyard.
This wasn¡¯t the return I had imagined, and yet, it was just another reminder of how much things had changed while I was away.
And clearly, I wasn¡¯t the only one who had been changing.
¡°What the hell?¡± I blurted out.
Both of them turned toward me, their faces lighting up in unison. In a flash, they rushed at me with surprising speed, faster than I could react. Lan-Yin reached me first, her arms wrapping around me in a tight hug.
¡°Kai! You¡¯re back!¡± she exclaimed, her voice brimming with joy.
The force of her hug almost knocked me off balance, and I quickly noticed how much stronger she felt. Gone was the delicate, refined aura she used to carry. Now, her hair was tied in a practical bun, her shoulders broad and defined, and her grip was strong¡ªfar more than I remembered.
Before I could comment, Wang Jun barreled into me next, laughing as he tackled me to the ground. ¡°Kai, you bastard! You didn¡¯t even tell us you were coming!¡±
I grunted under his weight. Wang Jun had always been big, but now he was even more robust, his frame solid as a mountain. The roundness that used to soften his features was gone, replaced by hard lines and a square jaw. He looked like a completely different man.
¡°Okay, okay! You two are gonna crush me at this rate!¡± I gasped, trying to wiggle free from their combined weight.
They both scrambled to their feet, helping me up with wide smiles plastered on their faces. As I stood, brushing off the dirt from my robes, I couldn¡¯t help but take a moment to admire how much they¡¯d changed. Wang Jun¡¯s physique had sharpened into something more than just raw muscle¡ªhe moved with a deliberate grace that hadn¡¯t been there before. And Lan-Yin, who had once carried herself with a delicate air, now exuded strength and confidence, her muscles toned and firm.
¡°You two look... different,¡± I said, still catching my breath. ¡°When did this happen?¡±
Before either of them could answer, a familiar voice spoke up behind me.
¡°Kai, it¡¯s been some time.¡±
I turned quickly to see Elder Ming standing at the threshold of the courtyard, watching us with a warm, knowing smile. His presence was the same as I remembered¡ªcalm, steady, and wise¡ªbut there was something about seeing him now, after all I¡¯d been through, that stirred something deep within me.
Elder Ming wasn¡¯t just the village head to me; he was my first mentor, the one who had put me on the right path when I didn¡¯t know where to turn. Without his guidance, I wasn¡¯t sure I¡¯d be standing here today.
Without thinking, I stepped forward and bowed deeply, my voice quiet but filled with emotion. ¡°Elder Ming... I¡¯m back.¡±
There was a long pause, and when I finally straightened, I found Elder Ming¡¯s eyes had softened, his gaze resting on me with a mixture of pride and affection. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you¡¯ve returned safely, Kai. You¡¯ve come a long way since you left, but I can see that your journey isn¡¯t finished yet.¡±
I smiled. ¡°No, it¡¯s not. But I owe much of it to you.¡±
Elder Ming¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change, but his eyes twinkled with quiet amusement. ¡°I simply pointed you in the right direction. The rest was up to you.¡±
He stepped closer, placing a hand on my shoulder, and I felt a sense of peace settle over me. This was the man who had given me my start, and standing before him now, I realized just how far I had come.
Wang Jun¡¯s voice broke the moment, full of playful energy. ¡°You¡¯re not the only one who¡¯s changed, Kai. I mean, look at you!¡±
Lan-Yin nodded in agreement, her eyes wide with amazement. ¡°You look different too. Stronger. It¡¯s like... you carry yourself differently now.¡±
I blinked, caught off guard by their words. I hadn¡¯t really thought about how much I had changed since I left. Hard to notice when I saw myself everyday.
¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± I said, rubbing the back of my neck awkwardly. ¡°I think you two have changed more than I have.¡±
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Wang Jun laughed, shaking his head. ¡°Not a chance, Kai. You¡¯re not the same guy who left the village. We can see it.¡±
Lan-Yin smiled warmly. ¡°It¡¯s true. You¡¯ve grown, in more ways than one.¡±
I glanced down at myself, suddenly aware of the lean muscle I¡¯d developed from the training, the callouses on my hands, the way I stood a little taller, a little straighter. They were right¡ªI wasn¡¯t the same.
Elder Ming looked between the three of us, a small, satisfied smile on his face. ¡°Now, I think that¡¯s enough training for today. You two can resume tomorrow.¡±
Wang Jun and Lan-Yin both bowed to him, and as they straightened, the blacksmith grinned. ¡°Guess that means we can catch up with Kai now.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but smile back, still processing everything. ¡°You¡¯ll have to explain to me how this all started,¡± I said, glancing between the two of them. ¡°The last time I left, you were both still... well, you.¡±
He chuckled, looking at his betrothed with an amused smile. ¡°It started after that conversation we had. Remember? About using qi for things other than cultivation?¡±
I did remember. After learning the Crimson Lotus Purification technique, I had gone on rambling about the potential of the Heavenly interface; how it could help them in their respective careers. I didn''t think it would unfold like this.
Lan-Yin nodded, her eyes bright. ¡°That¡¯s when it clicked for us. We realized we didn¡¯t have to give up everything to cultivate. We did it just like you, doing it side by side with our regular lives. Elder Ming''s help was crucial, and we started training, bit by bit. It certainly wasn''t easy, the first month or so."
I winced. I still remember the first time I trained with him. I thought I was going to die.
She continued, ¡°But it¡¯s worth it. I¡¯ve never felt better! I can run your shop, help at the Soaring Swallow, and still have the energy to train without feeling completely drained. It''s like my body¡¯s finally caught up with everything my mind wanted to do.¡±
¡°How about you both come to the shop later? I¡¯ll introduce you to a friend of mine, Lan Sheng. He¡¯s waiting there now. But¡¡± I trailed off, trying to hide my amusement, ¡°I¡¯ll save the other introductions as a surprise.¡±
Lan-Yin raised an eyebrow. ¡°A surprise?¡±
I nodded. ¡°You¡¯ll see.¡±
As we began walking back toward the village center, they pelted me with questions, most of them revolving around the Gauntlet and my travels.
¡°Come on, Kai,¡± Wang Jun prodded. ¡°Tell us how the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet went. Did you win?¡±
I paused, taking a breath. The Gauntlet was a subject that had once made my chest tighten with frustration, but now... well, it still stung, but I¡¯d come to terms with it. Somewhat.
¡°No,¡± I said, though this time I allowed a small, comfortable smile to appear on my face. ¡°I didn¡¯t win. I lost in the final round.¡±
Wang Jun and Lan-Yin exchanged glances, surprised by how casually I said it.
¡°But,¡± I continued, puffing up my chest and flipping my hair back, ¡°I only lost by a razor-thin margin. The heavens themselves wept at the injustice of it all!¡± I flourished my hands dramatically, trying to get a rise out of them.
Wang Jun laughed out loud, shaking his head. ¡°There it is. The Kai we know.¡±
Lan-Yin chuckled, her eyes twinkling. ¡°So close, huh?¡±
I dropped the act with a chuckle of my own. ¡°Still, I learned a lot. It wasn¡¯t the victory I wanted, but it was the loss I needed, I think.¡± As I said the words, I realized I was more at peace with it than I¡¯d ever been. Even if a small part of me still ached at the memory, I was moving past it, slowly but surely.
The blacksmith clapped me on the back. ¡°Well, win or lose, you¡¯ve done more than we could¡¯ve imagined. We¡¯re proud of you, Kai.¡±
Lan-Yin nodded in agreement. ¡°And we¡¯re even prouder that you¡¯re back.¡±
The warmth in their words caught me off guard. I had spent so long pushing myself to be stronger, to prove something, that I hadn¡¯t realized how much support I had from the people I cared about. It was a grounding feeling.
¡°I missed you both,¡± I said softly. ¡°It¡¯s good to be back.¡±
We continued down the path together, and I couldn¡¯t help but feel like, despite everything, this was exactly where I was meant to be right now¡ªhome, with the people who had helped shape me.
And soon enough, they were going to meet the rest of my family. Windy was sure to leave an impression.
As we walked, I couldn¡¯t help but notice the little things¡ªWang Jun¡¯s hand finding its way to the small of Lan-Yin¡¯s back, the soft smile she gave him in return.
I suppose I''d have to prepare to be called ''Uncle Kai'' soon.
When we arrived, Lan Sheng was already outside, leaning against the cart with his usual easygoing demeanor. He straightened up when he saw us, smiling. "These your friends?"
The two immediately noticed him and exchanged respectful bows. ¡°Greetings, senior,¡± Wang Jun said, his tone polite and formal.
Lan Sheng waved them off with a chuckle. ¡°No need for all that. I¡¯m just a friend of Kai¡¯s.¡±
As they relaxed, I couldn¡¯t help but grin, holding back the surprise I had in store. Before I could say more, a distinct hissing filled the air, and Windy slithered up from behind the second-class disciple. His white scales gleamed in the light as he flicked his tongue, surveying the newcomers.
They jumped back, eyes wide with shock. ¡°What in the¡ª?!¡±
I held up a hand, suppressing a laugh. ¡°Relax, relax! That¡¯s Windy. He¡¯s... well, technically my spirit beast now.¡±
Lan-Yin''s eyes narrowed as she took a step forward, staring at the serpent. ¡°That¡¯s your pet?!¡±
"Not a pet, my companion!"
At that moment, Tianyi fluttered out from the cart, her shimmering wings glowing faintly as she perched on my shoulder. Lan-Yin smiled at the butterfly, obviously more comfortable with her.
¡°Tianyi,¡± She greeted softly. ¡°Good to see you again.¡±
Wang Jun, however, was still eyeing Windy with skepticism. ¡°You brought back a snake? It''s not gonna swallow up one of the kids in the village, right?¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but laugh this time. ¡°He won¡¯t. Windy¡¯s harmless... mostly. Found him as an egg after a spirit beast attack in Qingmu. Been taking care of him ever since.¡±
He crossed his arms, still looking uncertain but curious. ¡°You really come back with all sorts of surprises.¡±
¡°You¡¯ve got no idea,¡± I said, amusement in my voice. I wasn''t even getting started.
As their initial shock faded, their gazes softened. Lan-Yin still gave Windy a cautious glance, but Tianyi¡¯s presence reassured them, especially since they¡¯d met her before. I turned my attention to the garden, catching sight of the plants that had thrived in my absence. The Moonlit Grace Lily I¡¯d planted was blooming beautifully, its petals glowing under the light. Seeing it alive and well brought a sense of calm over me.
The sight reminded me of the Golden Bamboo seeds I had tucked away, waiting for the right time to plant. I¡¯d need to expand the garden for them, and now that I had the funds from the Azure Silk Trading Company¡¯s advance, I could finally afford to expand and add a greenhouse!
I turned back to my friends, smiling. ¡°Seems like the garden¡¯s been doing well without me. Thank you for taking care of them.¡±
Lan-Yin closed her eyes, waving me off. ¡°It was no trouble at all. The guide you left us made it easy. Elder Ming and I worked on it together, and everything¡¯s been thriving.¡±
I nodded, feeling a strange sense of nostalgia wash over me as I gazed at my small shop. The air inside was warm, filled with the faint scent of herbs and dried flowers.
For a moment, I stood there in the quiet, letting it sink in. I was finally back home.
The nostalgia hit harder than I expected, memories flooding back from my idle days here, keeping up my shop. This was where I found my footing.
Lan Sheng¡¯s voice brought me out of my reverie. ¡°Well, now that you¡¯re back, what¡¯s the plan?¡±
"How about we all sit down for a grand meal together? You¡¯ll all be graced with the privilege of hearing about my many glorious exploits in Crescent Bay City."
The second-class disciple leaned casually against the door frame, clearly amused. "Oh? You mean the tales of you narrowly avoiding getting yourself in trouble every other day? Poor Feng Wu had a headache telling me of all you did."
"Nonsense!"
"Alright, alright," Wang Jun said, clapping me on the back. "You¡¯ve convinced me. Let¡¯s go eat and hear about your ¡®legendary¡¯ trip."
With everyone in good spirits, we made our way out of the shop, the laughter lingering in the air. As we headed towards a meal together, the warmth of home and the joy of being surrounded by my closest friends settled into my heart.
127. Building Bridges & Mending Bonds
"You''re sure you don''t need more supplies?" I asked, holding out an extra pouch of dried food. "It¡¯s a long road."
Lan Sheng glanced at the pouch, then at me, grinning in that easy, carefree way of his. "I appreciate it, but that¡¯ll only slow me down. The lighter I travel, the quicker I¡¯ll be there."
"Quicker maybe, but you¡¯ll be starving when you arrive."
He chuckled and gave a mock bow. "I¡¯ve survived worse. Besides, I could use the challenge. Don''t worry about me."
I frowned, still holding the pouch out to him. He just gave me a wave, already stepping away from the village gates. "Kai," he called over his shoulder, his voice drifting back with the wind, "you focus on getting things settled here. I¡¯ll be fine."
Before I could argue further, he dashed forward, his silhouette growing smaller by the second. I watched him disappear down the road, his form nothing but a streak as he bounded over the horizon.
"He''s as fast as a horse," I muttered. "I wonder when I''ll be able to do something like that?"
I turned and headed back toward the Soaring Swallow Tea House, my mind still half on Lan Sheng''s effortless departure. I shook my head, dismissing the thought as I approached the tea house. Inside, Lan-Yin and Wang Jun were seated, each with a cup of tea in hand. The atmosphere was relaxed, though the two of them perked up when they saw me enter.
"Did Lan Sheng leave already?" Lan-Yin asked, raising an eyebrow.
I nodded. "Took off like a gust of wind. I tried giving him some extra supplies, but he wouldn¡¯t take them. Said they¡¯d slow him down."
The blacksmith snorted, amused. "On foot? Cultivators are crazy."
"You should''ve seen it, he''ll probably get to Qingmu before the day ends." I said, taking a seat across from them. I glanced over at the corner where Windy was curled up, chomping down on raw fish, completely oblivious to the world around him. Beside him, Tianyi was perched daintily on the table, her small cup of alcohol in hand. Somehow, despite her tiny frame, she was gulping down far more than seemed reasonable.
Lan-Yin followed my gaze and laughed. "Looks like Tianyi is enjoying herself. Didn¡¯t think butterflies could hold their liquor."
Wang Jun leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. "Enough about her though. We want to hear more about you. Specifically, about that run-in with the Silent Moon sect." His eyes gleamed with curiosity. "Something about a wager?"
I sighed, knowing this was coming. "Right, the Silent Moon Sect. Well, let¡¯s just say I may have... gotten myself into a bit of a situation."
"You? In a situation? Shocking."
I recounted the entire tale. How I put myself in and provoked Elder Jun, the month I spent preparing for the wager, and my eventual victory over that mountain of a man, Ping Hai. Their jaws seemed to drop with every word I spoke.
"And this was before the Gauntlet even began?" She asked with a shrill voice.
I waved a hand nonchalantly, trying to downplay the intensity of the situation. "Yeah, it was resolved easily enough. Nothing too crazy."
I neglected to mention the fact that I¡¯d been bedridden for days afterward, barely able to move from the pain of that battle. They didn¡¯t need to know every little detail, and besides, the end result was what mattered.
"But what came out of it was worth it," I continued, leaning back in my chair. "I got my hands on a beast core after the fight, and I managed to use it to craft a powerful elixir. It wasn¡¯t easy, but yeah. I shared it between me, Tianyi, and Windy. And thanks to that, I broke into the fourth stage of the Qi Initiation realm. Windy¡¯s at the same level, and Tianyi... well, she¡¯s now in the Essence Awakening stage."
I waited for their jaws to drop, or for them to drop to the ground coughing out blood in sheer suprise, but all they did was tilt their heads, exchanging a confused glance.
"Qi Initiation? Essence Awakening?" Lan-Yin asked. "I¡¯m not really familiar with all the cultivation terms. Elder Ming didn''t really explain much about that."
I rubbed the back of my neck. "Right, right. I guess those terms don¡¯t mean much unless you''re deep into it. Okay, let me simplify it. Qi Initiation is basically when the body starts to understand how cultivation works, learning the basics of harnessing qi. It¡¯s... well, it¡¯s the level I¡¯m at right now."
"And Essence Awakening?" Wang Jun asked, his brows furrowing.
"It¡¯s the stage where those myths and stories about cultivators come to life. You know, lifting boulders, cutting through stone, that sort of thing. When you see people causing gouges in the ground with their attacks, it¡¯s because they¡¯ve hit the Essence Awakening stage."Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.
Lan-Yin looked at the relaxed butterfly in the corner with a different expression. "So, that¡¯s where Tianyi¡¯s at now?"
I nodded. "Yep. There''s some nuances to the whole situation, but rest assured, she''s far more dangerous in a fight than I am."
Wang Jun whistled low. "And what comes after Essence Awakening?"
I hesitated for a moment, thinking. "There¡¯s Spirit Ascension, where the cultivator starts to understand the connection between their spirit and the world around them. Then there¡¯s Earthly Transcendence, but..." I trailed off, scratching my chin. "I¡¯ve only ever heard of that one in Liang Feng¡¯s novels. I¡¯m not even sure if it¡¯s real or just something he made up."
"But enough about that," I said, brushing off the deeper complexities of cultivation. "There''s something else I wanted to show you."
The two exchanged curious looks as I held out the hand with my storage ring. There was something oddly satisfying about their wide-eyed reactions to the transparent case popping out of thin air. As I set it on the table, their curiosity deepened.
"What¡¯s in there?" Wang Jun asked, leaning forward slightly.
"Golden Bamboo seeds," I said with a grin. "A rare species thought to be extinct. I got them as one of my rewards from the Gauntlet. The method to cultivate and reproduce them has been lost, but I''ll figure it out. If I can revive the species, it¡¯ll be worth the effort."
He whistled, looking at the seeds with a newfound appreciation. "So, you¡¯re planning to grow these in your garden?"
I nodded. "That¡¯s the plan. I¡¯ll need to expand the garden first, though. Maybe even build a greenhouse to protect them while I figure out how to bring them back. I¡¯ll probably need to send a message to the Azure Silk Trading Company to find a capable artisan and carpenter who can handle glass and construction. It¡¯s not going to be easy, but I¡¯ve got some connections now."
As I spoke, I noticed the two of them exchanging a knowing glance. Lan-Yin grinned. "You might not need to look too far for that, Kai."
I blinked, confused. "What do you mean?"
"Well, we''re not the only ones who learned a thing or two. I think it''s better to show you."
"A greenhouse, surrounded by glass? That''s doable. You''d have to consider humidity control, sunlight exposure, and temperature regulation, though," Li Wei said nonchalantly, barely looking up as his charcoal pencil sketched rapid lines on a piece of parchment. His hands moved with practiced ease, already outlining the rough dimensions of the structure.
I stared at him, still somewhat stunned. The boy sitting in front of me, barely thirteen years old, had grown so much. His scruffy hair was tied up messily, as if he couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with it, and his clothes were streaked with sawdust and wood shavings. The interior of his family¡¯s home, which doubled as a carpentry workshop, was cluttered with tools, beams, and unfinished projects scattered across the room.
I watched him work, still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that this was the same kid who used to trail after Wang Jun and me, barely tall enough to carry a hammer. Now he was talking about humidity control and construction details with the ease of a seasoned craftsman.
"You can really handle this?" I asked, my doubt probably showing on my face.
Li Wei glanced up briefly with a blank expression. "Yes? Why can''t I?"
I remembered vaguely that he had mentioned something about his skill level when the Interface first arrived; He was already far beyond what most people his age could do. Still, I hesitated. A greenhouse wasn¡¯t exactly a small project.
"Well, it''s just..." I trailed off, trying not to sound too skeptical. "Glass is a difficult material to work with, I know that at least."
Before Li Wei could respond, Wang Jun cut in, a proud grin spreading across his face. He gestured toward the forge where he worked. "You see the forge? That used to be a real problem for me. The bellows were old and uneven, and the airflow was weak¡ªmade it hard to control the temperature in the furnace. Li Wei came by, took one look, and designed an entirely new airflow system. He crafted a bunch wooden ducts and levers to direct the wind more precisely into the furnace. Now, I can adjust the heat exactly how I need it, no wasted air, and the forge gets hotter, faster. It¡¯s made my work easier, and I save hours every week."
He leaned forward, ruffling the boy''s hair, much to Li Wei''s chagrin. "I¡¯ve worked that forge for years, and even his old man wouldn''t have thought of that. He would have just built a new set of bellows or told me to replace the whole system. He made a solution that¡¯s not just better, but smarter."
The blacksmith pointed out of the door once more. "And you remember the grain storage building near the village center? It was sinking into the ground. Li Wei designed a system to lift it without cracking the walls and reinforced the base with treated wood. Took him two days, and now it¡¯s more stable than it ever was. The kid¡¯s not just skilled¡ªhe thinks ahead, solves problems no one else even sees."
Li Wei, still scribbling on the parchment, shrugged like it was nothing. "It''s all about knowing the materials. Wood, air, fire¡ªthey all have their own paths. If you work with them instead of against them, you can make anything last."
With Wang Jun¡¯s endorsement, my doubts faded completely. I patted the teen on the back with a grin. "Alright, I¡¯m convinced. We¡¯ll make this greenhouse happen, and I have no doubt it¡¯ll be the best one anyone¡¯s ever seen."
¡°It''ll take some time to prepare the measurements, but I¡¯ll come down to your shop later to check the viability of the greenhouse. I¡¯ll need to see the space myself.¡±
I nodded, satisfied. ¡°Sounds like a plan.¡±
With that settled, we left Li Wei to his work, and as Wang Jun and Lan-Yin followed me out, the village was already coming alive. The morning light filtered through the trees, casting long shadows as people started their daily routines. The familiar sounds of the market stalls being set up, carts rolling over the dirt paths, and villagers calling out to one another filled the air.
I turned to my two friends with a grin. ¡°Alright, it¡¯s time for the second most important matter of the day: giving gifts.¡±
We moved from house to house, distributing the items I¡¯d brought back from Crescent Bay City. Every gift was met with excitement and gratitude, and the joy on their faces was contagious.
Wang Jun¡¯s eyes sparkled as he unwrapped a finely crafted set of calligraphy brushes, each bristle perfectly tapered. ¡°Kai¡ these are incredible,¡± he murmured, his fingers gently brushing over the delicate wood.
Lan-Yin, on the other hand, marveled at the skincare goods I¡¯d picked up for her from Bai Hua¡¯s shop. She let out a delighted laugh, holding up the bottles of fragrant oils and creams. ¡°You remembered! These will make my skin glow like a moonlit lily!¡±
The other villagers received more practical items¡ªtools, herbs, and even some finely woven fabrics that would make their lives easier in the coming months. Many of the gifts I received from merchants and other companies were useless to me, so I decided to give them to the villagers who''d appreciate it more.
Distributing the gifts was an incredible moment, watching as their faces lit up, knowing that I¡¯d brought back a small part of the world beyond the village. It felt good to give back, to share what I¡¯d gained from my travels.
By the time the morning turned to afternoon, the village had returned to its usual rhythm, but with a renewed energy. Everyone had greeted me warmly, commenting on my transformation, Tianyi¡¯s newfound power, and, of course, Windy, who had become an unexpected source of fascination. They were adjusting, though, and the joy in their eyes reminded me of why I¡¯d come back in the first place.
Once things had settled down, I found myself making my way to Elder Ming¡¯s abode. The village head was exactly where I thought he¡¯d be; sitting in his courtyard, sipping tea with a peaceful expression on his face. As I approached, Windy curled around my neck and Tianyi resting on my shoulder, Elder Ming¡¯s sharp eyes caught sight of us. He smiled faintly but raised an eyebrow at Windy.
¡°I see you¡¯ve picked up a new companion, Kai,¡± he said, gesturing toward the serpent. ¡°You¡¯ll have to explain this to me later.¡±
I chuckled softly, taking a seat across from him. ¡°I will. But first, I wanted to show you this.¡±
Elder Ming tilted his head, curious. Without another word, I reached into my storage ring and pulled out a bundle of bound novels.
Liang Feng¡¯s latest works.
¡°For you,¡± I said, handing them to him with a grin. ¡°I thought we could read these together. Like old times.¡±
Elder Ming¡¯s eyes softened as he took the bundle, carefully running his fingers over the spines.
¡°I¡¯ve been looking forward to this,¡± he murmured, a rare smile tugging at his lips.
And just like that, the weight of my travels, my struggles, and my victories seemed to melt away in the comfort of home.
128. The Daily Grind
Weeks had passed since I returned, and life had finally settled into something resembling normalcy. At first, it was overwhelming. Between catching up with the villagers, setting the shop back in order, and making time for training, I felt like I was trying to juggle a hundred different tasks all at once. But now? Now it felt effortless, like slipping back into an old, familiar routine.
Of course, "effortless" didn¡¯t apply to everything. Not when it came to Elder Ming¡¯s training regimen, which had, without a doubt, turned into my own personal hell.
Every morning, like clockwork, I¡¯d wake up before dawn, join Lan-Yin and Wang Jun for training, and face whatever new form of torment Elder Ming had concocted. He¡¯d wave us off with a smile, then add, ¡°Oh, and Kai? No using qi today.¡±
At first, I thought it was a joke. But after one too many mornings of running through the hills with rocks strapped to my limbs, I realized he was serious. Dead serious. According to him, if my body couldn¡¯t keep up with my cultivation, I was doomed to hit a wall later on. He kept harping on about building a strong core and lower body. Apparently, it didn¡¯t matter what martial art you practiced¡ªwhether you were a swordmaster or a fist-fighter¡ªif your legs were weak, you¡¯d collapse like a rotting log.
¡°Maybe he¡¯s secretly a sadist,¡± I muttered under my breath, trying to keep pace as we sprinted uphill yet again. ¡°There¡¯s no way any normal human could come up with this.¡±
¡°Did you say something?¡± Wang Jun panted beside me, already starting to lag behind. He wore similar weights along his legs, albeit smaller than mine.
¡°Just... thinking about how much I love early mornings.¡±
Lan-Yin, further ahead and looking as fresh as ever, threw a glance over her shoulder. ¡°Keep up, boys. You¡¯re falling behind!¡±
I gritted my teeth, putting everything I had into each step. No qi, no shortcuts¡ªjust raw, burning muscle. By the time we finished the sprint, I was seeing stars and couldn¡¯t feel my legs.
And this was just the warm-up.
Next came the bodyweight exercises. Push-ups, squats, planks¡ªall with Elder Ming standing off to the side, watching like a hawk. He even had the nerve to sip tea while we were on the verge of collapse. Meanwhile, Lan-Yin and Wang Jun were working hard too, but it was clear I was on another level of suffering. Elder Ming had tailored my training to be, well... particularly brutal.
¡°Five more, Kai!¡± Elder Ming called, as if that were supposed to motivate me.
¡°What kind of sadist did you learn these from?¡± I muttered into the dirt as I struggled through my last push-up. My arms felt like they were made of lead, shaking with every movement.
He only chuckled in response. ¡°That¡¯s for me to know and you to experience.¡±
As I finally collapsed onto the ground, face first, I relished the cool winter air that washed over my skin. Steam rose from my body as the sweat evaporated in the chilly morning breeze, and for a moment, I just lay there, savoring the sensation. There was something almost liberating about being utterly, completely exhausted. My mind was too tired to worry about anything else. It was just me, the dirt beneath me, and the cold air above.
¡°I¡¯m... alive,¡± I groaned, rolling over onto my back. Lan-Yin, who had finished her own set of exercises, stood nearby with a smirk.
¡°Barely,¡± she teased, offering me a hand to help me up.
I took it, groaning as my legs protested. ¡°Remind me again why we do this every morning?¡±
¡°Because you¡¯re obsessed with getting stronger?"
¡°Right. I knew there was a reason.¡±
Wang Jun, looking equally wrecked but far more cheerful about it, clapped me on the shoulder as I wobbled to my feet. ¡°By the way, I took a good look at that Iron Boar pelts you brought back.¡±
¡°Yeah?¡± I asked, wiping sweat from my brow.
He nodded. ¡°It¡¯s an incredible specimen. The hide is thick, durable, and has just the right amount of flexibility. I¡¯ll be able to make something great with it, but it¡¯s gonna take some time. Working with material that tough requires precision.¡±
¡°No rush,¡± I said, waving him off. ¡°Take your time. As long as it keeps me from getting skewered in the future, I¡¯m happy.¡±
He chuckled. ¡°Oh, it¡¯ll do that and more. Just leave it to me.¡±
With that, our training session came to an end, and we all began to part ways for the day. Lan-Yin had tasks at the Soaring Swallow, and Wang Jun was headed to the forge. As for me, I was looking forward to collapsing in my shop and maybe catching a break from Elder Ming¡¯s ¡®sage wisdom.¡¯ But before we split up, I couldn¡¯t resist one last jab.
"By the way," I said, letting a sly grin creep onto my face as we walked. "You two seem... closer these days. All that ¡®cultivating together,¡¯ eh? Must be quite the experience, sharing your energy flows, synchronizing your qi... bonding in such an intimate way.¡±
Wang Jun groaned, rolling his eyes, while Lan-Yin¡¯s face flushed red. ¡°Kai...¡± she warned, already clenching her fist.
¡°What?¡± I asked, feigning innocence. ¡°I¡¯m just saying¡ªcultivating side by side, your breathing in perfect harmony, feeling each other''s presence, the warmth of your combined¡ª¡±
Before I could finish, I felt a swift gust of air as Lan-Yin¡¯s hand came swinging toward the back of my head. But I was ready. My legs locked, my body bracing against the earth like the ancient roots of a tree.
ROOTED BANYAN STANCE!This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
Her palm met my skull with a resounding smack, but instead of the impact sending me sprawling, I stood firm, unmoving, with a triumphant smirk.
¡°Really, Kai? You¡¯re using an advanced defense technique just to avoid getting smacked?¡±
I shrugged, still grinning. ¡°When you¡¯re as fragile as I am, you¡¯ve gotta take precautions. Besides, your strength has been on the rise lately. I wouldn¡¯t want to be knocked out before breakfast.¡±
She huffed and crossed her arms, clearly unimpressed. ¡°You¡¯re ridiculous.¡±
"Thank you," I said, offering a mock bow before turning to Wang Jun. ¡°Now, if you¡¯ll excuse me, I have a shop to collapse in. Just make sure the pelt looks good on me. After all, a young master has a reputation to uphold."
The blacksmith snorted with an amused smile. "Reputation? Is that what you''re calling it now?"
"Of course," I said, flipping my hair back dramatically. "Why else would I use all these advanced techniques to keep my perfect form intact?"
And with that, we split up, each heading off to face the rest of the day. Another morning survived.
After a peaceful walk, I finally made it back to my shop. The familiar smell of herbs and dried flowers greeted me, grounding me in the present. Despite my exhaustion, I knew there was no time to rest. The deal with the Azure Silk Trading Company wasn¡¯t going to fulfill itself, and I had a massive batch of potions to prepare.
The Two Star Pagoda Pill Furnace gleamed in the morning light as I set to work. It had become my constant companion, its efficiency allowing me to brew multiple batches at a time. With a flick of my wrist, I activated it, watching as the furnace hummed to life with a small pulse of qi.
I gathered the ingredients, my hands moving automatically as I measured out the exact amounts for each concoction. Ginseng, goji berry, Morning Dew grass¡ªall essential for the various potions I''d promised to the company. With the pill furnace and my Refinement Simulation technique, the process was practically seamless. I tossed the ingredients into the furnace, feeling a small sense of satisfaction as the flames flared higher, wrapping around the materials and breaking them down into their purest forms.
As the potion brewed, I checked my mail. It had become a daily habit¡ªthanks to the post station that the Azure Silk Trading Company provided, I had access to fast communication with Crescent Bay City and beyond. It was a luxury I hadn''t used prior leaving the village, but one I learned to appreciate now.
I sifted through the letters: one from Tao Ren, another from Bai Hua, and¡ªah, there it was¡ªa letter from the Trading Company. I opened it first, scanning through the contents quickly.
"Good news," I muttered to myself, skimming the details. They had found an artisan capable of producing high-quality glass, and the pieces would be ready within a month, just in time for Li Wei to use them in constructing the greenhouse. Perfect timing.
The next letter was from Tao Ren, updating me on his efforts. After plenty of back-and-forth and some long nights, he¡¯d finally secured the permit for the shop he¡¯d been planning in Crescent Bay. There was a hint of pride in his words, and rightfully so! Hopefully, his father approved.
Then there was a letter from Bai Hua, of course. As usual, he was tinkering with new skincare concoctions, experimenting with more potent formulas meant to protect against extreme conditions. I¡¯d have to try them out at some point; Lan-Yin and the other women in the village I bought cosmetic goods for have been practically glowing since I arrived.
Finally, there was a letter from Guowei Wang. He thanked me for my recent note and, as always, encouraged me to keep balancing both alchemy and martial arts. ''Even the most elusive plants,'' he wrote, ''need time to root before they grow strong.''
He then mentioned my work with the Golden Bamboo and included a few excerpts from texts he thought might provide clues about its lost cultivation method. There were references to rare qi conditions and unique soil compositions, but nothing concrete yet. Still, it was more than I had before.
''By the way,'' he added, ''The Wandering Wind Press has some new releases that might interest you. If you find yourself back in Crescent Bay, stop by. You never know what you¡¯ll find in those old books.''
I leaned back in my chair, letting my thoughts wander for a moment. So much had changed since I returned, and yet, the day-to-day tasks were strangely comforting. As chaotic as life had become, I was thriving in the midst of it all.
With the letters out of the way, I turned my attention back to the potions. The mixture inside had reached the right stage, and it was time to transfer the liquid to cooling containers. I carefully lifted the cauldron''s lid, the fragrant steam rising in gentle swirls, and ladled the concoction into several glass vials.
The next step was letting them cool and infuse over the next several hours. I placed the vials in their cooling racks and left them undisturbed, trusting the natural process to do the rest.
With the potions now set aside, I needed a break. The sun had risen fully by now, bathing the village in a soft, winter light. I stepped outside, making my way toward the small garden Lan-Yin and Elder Ming carefully tended to. Most of the plants had entered a dormant state, their growth slowed by the cold, but they were still alive, hanging on in the harsh weather.
I crouched by the Moonlit Grace Lily, a delicate yet resilient flower that had been thriving despite the winter chill. Its silvery petals shimmered faintly, even under the pale sunlight. I placed a hand near its stem and channeled my qi into it.
The lilies responded, their petals perking up as the qi reinvigorated them. I repeated the process for the rest of the garden.
As I worked, something caught my eye¡ªa small, twisted form lying near the base of one of the bushes. I flinched when I realized what it was: a rodent, wrapped up in thick webs. The creature¡¯s eyes were glazed over, its body clearly drained of life.
¡°Oh, no,¡± I muttered, stepping back and staring at the webbed corpse. That had to be the work of that strange spider I¡¯d seen skittering around the garden a few times.
The thing was terrifying, being able to subdue animals many times larger than itself. Clearly, it had been busy while I was gone. And unlike Tianyi or Windy, it didn''t seem enthused about meeting me. It skitters away as soon as I see it. I''d have to give it a name soon. Calling it the ''strange spider'' all the time was rather tiresome.
I sighed and shook my head, wondering how long it would be before the regular farm animals in this village turned sentient or magical, too.
"One day, it''ll be chickens. I just know it," I muttered under my breath, imagining a qi-infused rooster unfolding the Silent Moon sect''s techniques. It was rather comical, imagining one unfolding the Twelve Form Harvest Moon.
For some reason, the image fit incredibly well.
As I stood there, shaking my head at the ridiculous image of battle-hardened chickens wielding martial techniques, something heavy dropped right beside me. I jumped back, startled, as the bisected form of a magpie lay at my feet, still twitching slightly. My stomach twisted at the sight.
''Sorry.''
I glanced up just in time to see Tianyi fluttering lazily overhead, her delicate wings shimmering with soft blue light.
Before I could get a word out, Windy slithered into view, his tongue flicking in the air. In one smooth motion, the serpent swallowed the magpie¡¯s remains whole. I grimaced but said nothing. Between Tianyi, Windy, and that unsettling spider, my shop was turning into something of an invincible fortress¡ªone that dealt with pests in its own gruesome way.
"Could you at least give me some warning next time?"
Tianyi fluttered down to perch on my shoulder, her small presence a familiar comfort despite the odd situation. I shook my head and turned back to the garden, deciding it was better to focus on something a little more peaceful.
Slowly but surely, my plants drank in my qi, ensuring they¡¯d be ready to flourish when spring came.
As I worked, a few customers passed by, seeking potions or salves for winter ailments. It wasn¡¯t a busy day, so the work went by quickly. Most of the villagers were accustomed to my shop¡¯s pace now, and the flow of people seemed steady, without the rush I''d experienced when I first returned.
Just as I was finishing up another round of tending to the herbs, a familiar sound reached my ears: the high-pitched chattering of children. Sure enough, Xiao Bao and Mei-Li, two of the more rambunctious village kids, appeared at the gate, followed by a gaggle of their friends.
¡°Kai!¡± Xiao Bao called out, his eyes wide with excitement. ¡°Tell us more about the Gauntlet! How you fought the Five Fists of Narrow Stone Peak!¡±
Mei-Li joined in, bouncing on her toes. ¡°Yeah, you never told us what happened!¡±
I suppressed a grin, already feeling the urge to embellish my tale. ¡°Ah, the Five Fists, huh? Well, let me tell you, those were some of the toughest foes I¡¯ve ever faced.¡±
The kids gathered around, eyes wide, completely enraptured. I knew this was my moment. Of course, I didn¡¯t mention the minor detail that I had help from Xu Ziqing. Why ruin the magic of the story?
¡°And then,¡± I continued, standing tall, ¡°with a single blow, I shattered their formation. The very ground trembled beneath our feet, and the heavens wept at the sight of my victory!¡±
The kids gasped in awe, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile.
As the children ran off, no doubt to reenact my grand battle with the Five Fists, I rested my elbows against the fence and took in a deep breath. The beauty of a normal life, a life I¡¯d once thought too small for my ambitions, was finally settling back into my bones. That constant wanderlust that used to gnaw at me had been tempered by the rhythm of the village.
But as the sun dipped lower, painting the sky with shades of amber, I knew my day wasn¡¯t done yet.
Once the shop was closed and the village had quieted for the night, I made my way to the small clearing next to my home. The moonlight filtered down through the bare branches, casting soft silver shadows across the ground.
Tianyi hovered beside me, her wings shimmering in the moonlight, while Windy coiled lazily near the base of a tree. I stretched my limbs, preparing for the final task of the day¡ªtraining.
My qi reserves were brimming, which was exactly what I needed. Tonight, I would spar, pushing myself to the edge of my physical and mental limits. The remaining beast core elixir I had consumed needed to settle, to fully integrate into my dantian. And the best way to ensure that was through the grind of battle.
Taking a deep breath, I slipped into my stance, the energy swirling within me as I prepared to test everything I had. The night was still, the world quiet, as the three of us charged at each other, sharpening our skills.
| Rooted Banyan Stance has reached level 3. |
Another day. Another step closer.
129. A Flower of Dread
Xu Ziqing sat across from Elder Fang, the dim light of the lanterns swaying gently with the motion of the carriage. The soft clinking of the wooden wheels against the uneven dirt road was the only sound breaking the silence. Despite the calm exterior of the ride, his thoughts churned, each turn of the wheel fueling his growing unease.
The lanterns cast flickering shadows across Elder Fang¡¯s face, further emphasizing the sharp lines of the man''s expression. Though the man had not spoken a word since they had set off, his mere presence dominated the carriage. The second-class disciple could feel the heavy weight of the elder''s qi pressing against the space, thick and suffocating.
These elders are not from here, Xu Ziqing thought grimly, confirming once again what he had suspected from the start. Powerhouses like them wouldn''t have gone unnoticed for so long if they had. This begged the question that gnawed at his mind: How did Sect Leader Jun bring them here?
The route to the other continents had been destroyed decades ago, an event woven into the history of their world. Yet, these men, bound to Jun¡¯s cause, hailed from those distant lands. What price had Jun paid to forge such alliances? The possibilities churned the disciple''s stomach.
From the front of the carriage, Ping Hai¡¯s quiet grunt could be heard as he guided the horses, the reigns creaking in his large hands. The Azure Moon Marauder watched his junior brother from the shadows, his heart heavy. The third-class disciple had changed since his defeat at Kai Liu¡¯s hands, and not for the better.
Once, he had been full of potential, a disciple on the rise. But that defeat, paired with Sect Leader Jun¡¯s manipulations, had twisted Ping Hai¡¯s trajectory. The boy had thrown himself into mission after mission, each more dangerous than the last, risking life and limb in the hopes of reclaiming some shred of honor. His rapid growth had come at a cost¡ªa deep, jagged scar now marred his face, cutting across his left eye, and his once bright spirit had been replaced by a hollow devotion to the sect¡¯s cause.
To most, Ping Hai¡¯s transformation would be seen as a testament to his dedication, a remarkable ascension through the ranks. But to Xu Ziqing, it was nothing short of a tragedy. His junior brother had become little more than a pawn in Jun¡¯s growing web of control.
He had to protect him, even if it meant doing so from the shadows.
Observe Elder Fang, Sect Leader Jun had told him before the mission began, his voice as cold and cutting as a winter wind. Do not offend him under any circumstance.
Those words lingered in the second-class disciple''s mind as he studied the elder sitting across from him.
But how had such men come to serve Jun? What had the sect leader offered them? The answers were elusive, yet Ziqing couldn¡¯t shake the growing certainty that whatever Jun¡¯s plans entailed, they were far more dangerous than anyone realized.
The carriage rolled on, the silence heavy, as they approached the outskirts of Qingmu. Xu Ziqing kept his thoughts tightly contained, stealing glances at Elder Fang, but the man remained motionless, his presence as ominous as ever. The tension between them was palpable, though no words had passed.
At the front of the carriage, Ping Hai suddenly called back, his voice breaking the stillness. ¡°We¡¯re here, Senior Brother. Elder.¡±
Ziqing straightened as the carriage slowed to a halt. The third-class disciple brought the horses to a stop, his broad shoulders hunched slightly. He jumped down from the driver¡¯s seat, his scarred face barely visible in the dim light of the lanterns. To anyone else, Ping Hai would look like a loyal disciple eager to serve. But Ziqing could see the shadows behind his eyes¡ªshadows that deepened with every mission Sect Leader Jun sent him on.
Elder Fang finally stirred, his sharp gaze sliding to Ziqing. Without a word, the elder rose from his seat, stepping down from the carriage with the quiet grace of a predator.
This mission wasn¡¯t just about the Iron Claw sect¡¯s transgressions. This was about sending a message. A message that the Silent Moon Sect, under Jun¡¯s rule, would not tolerate any insult¡ªno matter how small.
The second-class disciple stepped out of the carriage, the cold air of Qingmu biting at his skin. Lanterns flickered along the village path, casting a dim glow on the waiting figures of the villagers. As he scanned the crowd, his eyes fell upon Lan Sheng, the second-class disciple of the Verdant Lotus Sect who informed them of the situation.
¡°Welcome to Qingmu,¡± Lan Sheng said smoothly, his gaze sliding over the group. "I figured you were arriving today. Fortunate timing too. The Iron Claw Sect has been... pressing their luck lately. If it weren¡¯t for Kai Liu stepping in, things could have gone much worse. You were supposed to be the ones handling it, correct?"
The subtle dig made his stomach churn.
Again, it¡¯s him. Every time Xu Ziqing turned around, the young alchemist was somehow there involving himself in matters far beyond his reach. The village, the Gauntlet, the wager with Ping Hai¡ªit was as if Kai''s very existence was a constant reminder of the chaos that trailed him.
"How... convenient for Qingmu that Kai Liu just happened to intervene," The second-class disciple replied coolly, keeping his voice even.
Lan Sheng¡¯s smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes. "It¡¯s becoming a habit, isn¡¯t it? Him cleaning up after your sect. One might think the Silent Moon Sect has more important matters than keeping its promises."
His words cut deeper than Ziqing cared to admit. He hated that Lan Sheng was right¡ªhated that they were here, again, playing catch-up to an alchemist who seemed to always find himself at the center of everything.
The tension between them simmered, the conversation teetering on the edge of formality. But Elder Fang wasn¡¯t interested in their verbal sparring.
The elder¡¯s cold voice broke through the tension. ¡°This is not our concern. The Iron Claw Sect is. We¡¯ll deal with them directly. Where do they reside?"
¡°They reside a few hours northwest of here, Elder,¡± Xu Ziqing replied. ¡°The Iron Claw Sect has a small stronghold near the base of the Crescent Hills. If needed, I can send a request for reinforcements immediately.¡±If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.
He already had the plan forming in his mind: a small contingent of Silent Moon disciples could be mobilized quickly, fortifying their position and ensuring they had a backup in case the situation escalated. It was the logical move, one Sect Leader Jun would approve of. But before Xu Ziqing could act on it, Elder Fang dismissed the idea with a wave of his hand, his face unreadable.
¡°There¡¯s no need,¡± He said, his voice casual, as though they were discussing something as mundane as the weather. ¡°I will be enough deterrent.¡±
He spoke with such certainty as if the idea of needing reinforcements was laughable. And perhaps, for him, it was.
The more Xu Ziqing thought about it, the more disturbed he became. What had Sect Leader Jun promised this man? What had they given to have three other men like Elder Fang on their side, or more terrifyingly, were they really on their side?
As these thoughts swirled in his mind, Xu Ziqing glanced at Ping Hai, who was now interacting with the villagers, accepting what the disciple assumed to be the tribute the Silent Moon demanded for their so-called protection. The villagers were anxious, but Ping Hai handled the exchange with mechanical efficiency, his expression devoid of warmth.
He could feel the weight of it, pressing down on him¡ªhis own powerlessness, the slow realization that the sect he had dedicated his life to no longer existed. He had failed, not only as a disciple but as a guardian of its true values.
¡°Let¡¯s move,¡± The elder said sharply, already turning toward the carriage.
Lan Sheng made no further remarks but nodded at Xu Ziqing before taking his leave, his presence lingering like a shadow.
Without another word, Xu Ziqing climbed back into the carriage, Ping Hai following closely behind. As they set off once more, the oppressive silence of the journey resumed.
The journey continued in tense silence as the carriage rattled along the uneven path, each bump jostling his thoughts into further disarray. The trees began to thin, revealing a clearing up ahead. As they drew closer, something felt off¡ªan oppressive stillness hung in the air, and the scent of dried earth mixed with something more sinister.
The carriage jolted to a halt, its sudden stop jarring Xu Ziqing from his grim thoughts. He leaned forward, catching a glimpse of Ping Hai climbing down from the driver¡¯s seat, his broad form a silhouette against the dim lantern light.
¡°What is it?¡± Xu Ziqing asked, stepping down from the carriage.
Ping Hai stood frozen a few paces ahead, staring at something in the distance, his brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°There¡¯s something strange here,¡± he muttered, pointing toward the ground.
He followed his junior brother''s gaze, his boots crunching against the dry, uneven dirt as he moved closer. The path before them was marked with clear signs of movement¡ªfootprints, many of them, some heavy and deep, others lighter, but all converging toward this exact spot. There was no mistaking it; this was the site of a struggle. Yet, something was off.
The second-class disciple crouched down, his hand brushing the earth. The ground was disturbed, but not violently¡ªno gouges from weapons, no splashes of blood, no debris from armor or clothing. Just... footprints. Dozens of them, spread in every direction but leading to a single point where they simply vanished.
¡°Over a week old,¡± He murmured, trying to make sense of the scene. ¡°But there¡¯s no sign of a battle. No blood, no broken weapons, nothing.¡±
But the tracks simply ended here. As if those who made them had disappeared into thin air.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s mind raced. This wasn¡¯t normal¡ªno sect battle he¡¯d ever seen ended like this. Even a retreat would leave clearer signs. A scattering of belongings, perhaps. But here, there was only this ominous silence, and the footprints, cut short as though swallowed by the earth itself.
Just as he was about to say more, Ping Hai¡¯s sharp intake of breath drew his attention. ¡°Senior Brother,¡± he called, his tone grim, ¡°look.¡±
Xu Ziqing turned to where the bald disciple pointed, and the words died in his throat.
There, nestled in a patch of disturbed earth, was a flower. But it was unlike anything Xu Ziqing had ever seen. The bloom pulsed faintly with a reddish hue, its petals grotesquely fleshy, almost as if they were formed from raw muscle. Dark, vein-like tendrils snaked through the flower¡¯s body, and with every pulse, a faint, malevolent energy seemed to radiate from it, twisting the air around it.
¡°What in the world...?¡± He whispered, unable to hide the revulsion creeping into his voice. His instincts screamed at him to back away, but his feet remained rooted to the spot, transfixed by the eerie sight. Even with all his years of experience and battles fought, the sight of this flower unnerved him in a way he couldn¡¯t explain.
Elder Fang approached silently, his cold eyes locking onto the flower. For the first time since they¡¯d begun the journey, his expression twisted¡ªnot with fear, but with a mix of recognition and disgust.
From his sleeve, a long spear appeared as though summoned from thin air, the weapon gleaming in the dim light.
In one swift motion, he brought it down with enough force to obliterate the flower entirely. The ground erupted as the spear struck, and when the dust settled, nothing remained of the strange bloom but a blackened scar on the earth.
¡°This mission is complete, let''s head back.¡± Elder Fang said, his voice as cold and measured as ever, as if the flower¡¯s existence had been a mere inconvenience.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s mind reeled, struggling to process the implications of Elder Fang¡¯s words. Was that it? Was this strange flower, this unsettling emptiness, truly the only clue left behind? No. There had to be more to it than that.
¡°But... the Iron Claw Sect?¡± Xu Ziqing started, his voice barely hiding the confusion. ¡°There¡¯s no trace of them. No remains, no¡ª¡±
Elder Fang turned toward him slowly, his cold eyes narrowing. For a moment, Xu Ziqing saw something strange in his expression.
¡°Their fate was sealed by forces beyond their understanding. Or ours. We need not concern ourselves with the Iron Claw any longer.¡±
¡°But if we press forward,¡± Xu Ziqing persisted, unable to hide his unease, ¡°we can at least find answers. We should¡ª¡±
¡°No,¡± Elder Fang cut in sharply, his tone final. He looked to the northwest, where the Iron Claw Sect¡¯s stronghold was hidden among the hills, his gaze distant. ¡°There is no need to follow further. Whatever claimed those disciples will claim the rest. The Iron Claw Sect will likely no longer be a bother. Pursuing them any further would be... unwise.¡±
The second-class disciple''s heart pounded in his chest, an unsettling realization dawning on him. Elder Fang, the man who had been so willing to confront an entire sect on his own, was now backing down. Retreating. For a man of such power, such confidence, to suddenly turn cautious¡ªit sent a cold wave of fear washing over Xu Ziqing.
¡°Unwise?¡± Xu Ziqing echoed, his voice barely above a whisper. ¡°But we were sent to¡ª¡±
¡°We¡¯ve seen enough. This matter is finished.¡±
Xu Ziqing¡¯s mind raced, but no words came. Elder Fang, who only moments ago had dismissed the need for reinforcements, was now suggesting they retreat. That the threat, whatever it was, wasn¡¯t something they could face¡ªor should face.
¡°We return to the sect,¡± Elder Fang said, his voice cold once more, though there was a sharpness behind it now. A warning. ¡°Do not speak of what you have seen. Understand?"
As his words cut through the clearing, the atmosphere thickened with an oppressive, dark energy. It felt as though the world itself held its breath, waiting for the slightest misstep. Xu Ziqing¡¯s heart pounded in his chest, a cold sweat forming on his brow.
Then, he felt it¡ªa faint, almost imperceptible shift in the air. It was subtle, like the distant rumble of a storm on the horizon, but the second-class disciple recognized it instantly. Killing intent. It was so faint that most wouldn¡¯t even register it, but to someone as attuned as himself, it might as well have been a blade at his throat.
He resisted the instinctive urge to reach for his sword, knowing full well that if he did, he would be dead before he could even unsheathe it. The pressure that radiated from the cultivator in that moment wasn¡¯t just a warning¡ªit was a promise. A reminder of the power the man held, the kind of power that could snuff out lives in an instant.
Ping Hai, despite his towering frame, visibly faltered. His head dipped low, and his shoulders trembled slightly under the weight of the elder¡¯s killing intent. Xu Ziqing could see the strain in his eyes, the struggle to keep himself composed in the face of such overwhelming force.
For a brief, terrifying moment, he thought that the killing intent would consume them both. That Elder Fang''s patience had run out, and they would be left to die in this forsaken clearing, their lives cut short by forces they could neither understand nor resist.
But Xu Ziqing couldn¡¯t allow that to happen. Ping Hai¡ªhis junior brother¡ªwouldn¡¯t survive this alone. And Xu Ziqing knew that if there was any hope of getting out of this alive, it was on him to act now. If he was to fall here, it would be on his terms,not because he had been too afraid to act.
The second-class disciple stepped forward, moving between his junior brother and the elder. Forcing himself to stand tall, his eyes locked with Elder Fang''s cold, unreadable gaze.
¡°We won¡¯t say a thing. You have my word, Elder.¡±
For a moment, there was only silence, the tension in the air so thick it was almost unbearable. The killing intent hung like a guillotine, poised to strike at the slightest misstep.
The older man''s gaze lingered on him for what felt like an eternity. Then, as suddenly as it had appeared, the killing intent dissipated, like a storm passing over. The suffocating pressure lifted, and the second-class disciple could finally breathe again.
¡°Good,¡± Elder Fang said, his voice as calm and detached as ever. ¡°See that you don¡¯t forget.¡±
With that, he turned away, as if the exchange had been of little consequence to him. As if he hadn¡¯t just come within a hair¡¯s breadth of ending both their lives. He walked back to the carriage, his movements as fluid and composed as ever, leaving them standing in the eerie quiet of the clearing.
Ping Hai, still visibly shaken, straightened himself, his hands trembling slightly as he tried to regain his composure. Xu Ziqing placed a hand on his junior brother¡¯s shoulder, offering a silent reassurance before they both followed Elder Fang back to the carriage.
The mission was over, but as Xu Ziqing climbed back into the carriage, a bitter taste lingered in his mouth. The truth of what they had witnessed in the clearing would remain buried, but the darkness surrounding Elder Fang had only deepened.
130. Seeds of Fortune
"You sure you don''t need any help?" I asked, mostly because it felt polite at this point.
Li Wei didn''t even look up from the wood he was chiseling. "Kai, would you want me to help you make an elixir?"
I blinked, caught off guard by the rhetorical question. "Probably not..?"
"Exactly," he said, giving me a quick side-eye before going back to work. ¡°We¡¯ve got this covered. Go play with your plants or something.¡±
I glanced over at his father, who gave me a nod of agreement, hammering down another beam without missing a beat. Clearly, this was their domain, and I was just some guy who happened to show up with ideas and seeds. They were the professionals. Plus, they looked like they were in their element¡ªthick coats, sawdust everywhere, and not a single break in their rhythm. Meanwhile, I was just standing there feeling... well, unnecessary.
Tianyi fluttered curiously near the half-built foundation, her wings shimmering in the cold morning light, while Windy slithered around the edge of the garden, eyeing the woodpile like it was a challenge. Probably deciding if he could knock it over with his tail.
¡°Alright, alright,¡± I said, holding my hands up in surrender. ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to it.¡±
Li Wei didn¡¯t respond, too focused on whatever intricate wood sorcery he was working on. His dad gave a grunt, which I assumed meant ¡®thank you for not getting in the way.¡¯ With one last glance at the growing structure that would soon be my greenhouse, I turned and headed back inside my shop, leaving the carpentry duo to their magic.
Once inside, the familiar smell of herbs and dried flowers greeted me, grounding me back into my world. I shut the door behind me, blocking out the cold and noise, and made my way to the table where the Golden Bamboo seeds sat, waiting for me.
Time to get back to the real puzzle.
I plopped down into my chair and pulled out the stack of notes Guowei Wang had sent me. Despite the numerous failed attempts recorded in the letters, the information had been invaluable. Every failure was a clue, showing me what didn¡¯t work. Cultivating Golden Bamboo was like asking the heavens to hand over a divine treasure. The seeds would sprout, yes, but then they¡¯d just stop. No growth, no energy. Just¡ there. A tiny little shoot that gave up on life before it even started.
I flipped through the pages, reviewing the detailed notes. One of the more promising attempts mentioned a seed that had sprouted¡ªfull sun, well-drained soil¡ªbasically treated like any other bamboo. It had even grown a few inches before it stubbornly refused to grow any further. That had led me to my current theory: the soil probably needed to be well-drained, just like regular bamboo, but it must require something more¡ªsomething beyond just sunlight.
"More sunlight," I muttered to myself. How do you get more sunlight when it¡¯s already planted in full sun? Build a second sun? Did there use to be another celestial body in the sky that disappeared centuries ago?
I stared at the seed in my hand, rolling it between my fingers. There had to be something I was missing, something I wasn¡¯t seeing. Maybe I was overthinking it? I closed my eyes and activated my Plant Whisperer skill, feeling the familiar tingle crawl down my spine, spreading out to the tips of my fingers.
The seed hummed with life beneath my touch. It wasn¡¯t dead, not by a long shot. It felt eager, like it was just waiting for the right conditions to explode into growth. But those conditions were still a mystery.
I let out a sigh, dropping the seed back onto the table.
My head was starting to spin from all the cross-referencing and thinking, so I decided to take a quick break. Grabbing a few herbs from the shelf, I began preparing a revitalizing tonic. The herbs mixed together easily in my hands, their aromas familiar and calming. Within minutes, I had extracted their essence, creating a potent, energy-boosting drink.
Tossing it into a couple of vials, I headed back outside where Li Wei and his father were still hard at work. They hadn¡¯t slowed down in the slightest, but even carpenters needed a boost every now and then.
¡°Thought you could use a pick-me-up,¡± I called out, holding up the vials.
Li Wei finally stopped chiseling long enough to give me a skeptical look. ¡°What¡¯s in it?¡±
¡°Trust me, you¡¯ll feel like you could build ten greenhouses after this.¡±
His dad took the vial without hesitation, downing it in one go. A second later, his eyes widened slightly, and he straightened up, his energy clearly restored. ¡°Not bad, Kai,¡± he grunted, giving me a nod of approval.
Li Wei followed suit, taking a swig and blinking in surprise as the tonic hit. ¡°Okay, maybe you¡¯re good for something,¡± he admitted, handing back the empty vial.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.
¡°Glad to be of service,¡± I said with a smirk.
As they got back to work, their energy noticeably renewed, I couldn¡¯t help but grin. It wasn¡¯t every day I got to play a supporting role in someone else¡¯s craft. Maybe I couldn¡¯t build a greenhouse, but I could keep the builders going strong. Watching them work, I noticed a clear difference in their working styles.
Jian Wei, Li Wei¡¯s father, worked with the steady, methodical precision that came from years, no, decades of experience. He used marking knives with familiar ease, carefully outlining the wood with smooth, deliberate cuts. Each motion was purposeful, measured, as if the wood itself were an old friend, and he knew exactly how to coax the best out of it.
Li Wei, on the other hand, was like a storm. Where Jian Wei was slow and deliberate, Li Wei moved quickly, his hands flowing over the wood in almost a blur. He didn¡¯t even bother with marking knives. Instead, he cut freehand, trusting his instincts and skills without a second thought. And yet, despite his speed, his cuts were precise¡ªalmost unnervingly so. He¡¯d pause occasionally, step back to examine his work, then dive right back in with a quick adjustment that brought everything perfectly into alignment.
It was mesmerizing to watch, the way the two styles contrasted yet complemented each other. The father, with his years of expertise, and the son, with his natural talent amplified by something more.
As I watched, Li Wei suddenly looked up from his work and called out to his father. ¡°That guideline¡¯s off by a fraction. Left by two millimeters.¡±
Jian Wei paused, squinting at the wood before adjusting it slightly. I blinked. From where I was standing, I couldn¡¯t see any difference at all, but somehow Li Wei had caught it from across the foundation.
¡°Wait,¡± I said, narrowing my eyes. ¡°How did you even see that?¡±
Li Wei shrugged, casually wiping his hands on his tunic. ¡°Harmonic Carpentry.¡±
¡°What?¡±
¡°The skill I unlocked about a month ago,¡± he explained as if this was the most normal thing in the world. ¡°It¡¯s called Harmonic Carpentry. Helps me see the balance in materials, or visualize grid lines or paths in the things I¡¯m working on.¡±
¡°Grid lines?¡± I leaned in, intrigued. ¡°So it¡¯s like your vision has... boundaries?¡±
¡°Sort of.¡± Li Wei gestured to the beam he¡¯d been working on, and I swear I could almost imagine the faint outlines he was describing. ¡°It lets me dabble in other things too, like masonry, even metalworking. All the materials, they¡¯ve got their own rhythm. It¡¯s just a matter of tuning into them.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of awe as I listened. It reminded me so much of my own skills, like the Refinement Simulation technique¡ªhow I could visualize the reactions inside the furnace, see the paths ingredients would take before I even added them.
¡°Have you learned the Memory Palace technique?¡± I asked, suddenly curious if his skill set paralleled mine even further.
Li Wei¡¯s eyes flicked over to me, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. ¡°I did, actually. Got it as a quest reward. It¡¯s been useful, especially when working on more complex structures. You?¡±
When everyone was special, no one was, I suppose. First Feng Wu, then Zhi Ruo, and now him? Everybody was getting all these supposedly ''rare'' skills, even though Elder Ming said it was unheard of to have unless you were an Essence Awakening stage cultivator!
I shook my head and nodded. ¡°Yeah. I use it for remembering a lot of things, and revising recipes, techniques, and whatnot.¡±
¡°Huh.¡± Li Wei scratched his chin thoughtfully. ¡°I guess we¡¯re more similar than we thought.¡±
That realization struck me harder than I expected. How had Li Wei, someone who had been a promising carpenter until recently, reached such a high level so quickly? What had prompted the Heavenly Interface to give him these quests and abilities, allowing him to eclipse his father in skill in just a few months? Was it something in his potential, or had the Interface been waiting for him to tap into it?
Before I could ponder it further, Li Wei gave me a curious glance. ¡°What about you? What abilities did you get?¡±
¡°Well, since you asked...¡± I plucked a sprig of mint from a nearby plant, holding it up as I activated my Essence Extraction skill. Instantly, the essence of the mint began to flow from the plant, gathering into a shimmering ball of energy at the top of my palm.
Li Wei¡¯s normally aloof expression brightened, his eyes sparkling with interest. He reached out to touch the essence, his hand brushing against the surface.
The moment his fingers made contact, the energy dropped from my palm, liquefying into a glowing liquid that slid off my hand and onto a nearby astralagus plant. The plant shuddered as it absorbed the liquid, its leaves taking on a strange, vibrant hue that shimmered under the light.
I stared at the plant, my brain struggling to process what had just happened. ¡°Uh¡ that¡¯s not supposed to happen.¡±
"My bad. I''m sorry."
"No, it''s okay." I crouched down to observe the astralagus, which stood out prominently among its standard, purple counterparts. "it just... absorbed it?"
As I crouched beside the plant, its now vibrant and odd shade of bluish green pulsed slightly, almost as if it were breathing. The realization struck me like a bolt of lightning.
Have I been able to do this all along?
I looked up at the teen, who was still watching with curious eyes. "Do you know what this means?"
He shrugged, unaware of what just transpired. "The plant''s gone bad now?"
I waved my hand dismissively. "No, no. I can put these essences into other plants! I could create entirely new hybrids! Imagine the possibilities! What if I could make pills and elixirs using these hybrids that no one has ever seen before?"
Li Wei¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change much, but his eyebrow did raise a fraction. ¡°You mean like a... mint-astralagus hybrid?¡±
¡°Yes!¡± I exclaimed, the excitement building. "But bigger! What if I took the essence of a rare herb and merged it with a common plant? Or combined two powerful herbs into one super-plant? I could make pills and potions that don''t lose their effectiveness as quickly because they¡¯re unique every time!"
Lan Sheng''s words echoed in my mind about how most pills lose their potency with repeated use because the body grows accustomed to them. But what if I could make entirely new variants, hybrids with never-before-seen properties? Pills that would keep their potency no matter how many times they were consumed because each batch would be fundamentally different from the last.
The clinking of gold coins started to ring in my ears. My mind flashed to the possibilities. Creating a line of hybrid elixirs, selling them far and wide, becoming renowned as the alchemist who discovered a new way to enhance herbal medicine. My face split into a wide grin as the fantasy of endless riches began to form in my head.
Suddenly, I couldn''t contain myself. I shot to my feet, arms flung wide, and shouted at the top of my lungs, "I¡¯m rich! I¡¯m rich!"
Before Li Wei could react, I lunged forward and hugged him tightly, nearly knocking the poor guy over with the force of my enthusiasm. "Li Wei! This is the luckiest accident of my life!"
Well, second luckiest. Running into the ancient ruins where the Heavenly Interface laid dormant was even more ridiculous.
Li Wei, clearly startled and caught off guard by my sudden outburst, stiffened for a second before awkwardly patting me on the back. "Uh, yeah... sure. Congratulations."
"Do you understand what this means?" I pulled back, practically bouncing on my feet. "This changes everything! I could make an entirely new branch of alchemy! I¡¯m going to be a legend! An immortal alchemist known across the land for creating life-changing elixirs!"
¡°You sure you¡¯re not getting ahead of yourself?¡±
¡°Nope! Not even a little!¡± I beamed, spinning around to look at the astralagus plant, still marveling at what had just transpired. "This is just the beginning!"
Tianyi fluttered over, sensing my excitement. She landed softly on my shoulder, and her wings glimmered with a soft blue glow, reflecting the mood of the moment. Even Windy slithered closer, curious about what had happened.
¡°Just think of it,¡± I said, grinning from ear to ear. ¡°Unique elixirs, unheard-of pills. I''ll change the world of alchemy! And all because of one little accident.¡±
¡°Well, good luck with that," Li Wei said, returning to his work on the greenhouse. "Let me know when you''ve made a mint-ginger hybrid. Might help with the cold."
I laughed, my mind already racing ahead with ideas. There was no turning back now. If this worked, the possibilities were endless. I was going to make history, one plant at a time.
131. Sweat, Seeds, and Spiritual Growth
I trudged up the path to Elder Ming¡¯s house, the first rays of sunlight just beginning to peek over the horizon. My legs felt like they were made of lead, and my eyes¡ well, if I had to guess, they probably looked as tired as I felt.
But I didn¡¯t care.
Every single batch of herbs in my garden had at least one or two miscolored hybrids. Now, even as exhaustion gnawed at the edges of my consciousness, the thrill of my discoveries kept me going.
As I approached, I spotted Elder Ming already seated in the courtyard, a small cup of tea in his hands. He glanced up as I neared, his sharp eyes immediately noticing my disheveled appearance. One eyebrow raised, just enough to let me know he saw right through me.
"Kai," he said, his voice calm but tinged with mild curiosity. "You''re early. Did you even get any sleep?"
I let out a breathless laugh, dropping onto the nearest seat without so much as a greeting. "I didn¡¯t sleep," I admitted, grinning like an idiot. "I¡¯ve been up all night. You won¡¯t believe what I figured out!"
Elder Ming sipped his tea, clearly amused by my state. He silently poured me another cup, and I gingerly accepted it, letting the warmth envelop my cold fingertips.
I could hardly sit still as I recounted my accidental discovery with Li Wei yesterday, dropping a ball of extracted mint essence onto one of my plants. How it absorbed into the astralagus, infusing itself with the essence.
Elder Ming¡¯s eyebrow raised slightly higher, but he said nothing, just gestured for me to continue. He was used to my ramblings by now.
"So I started small," I went on, my words tumbling over each other in my excitement. "I took some dried ginger, infused its essence into Morning Dew grass, and created another hybrid! I''ve been trying it with all the different plants in my garden."
The older man set his tea down gently, his expression unreadable but I could tell he was intrigued. "You can create a hybrid plant by infusing the essence of another into it?" he asked, his voice calm but carrying an undertone of curiosity. "And it survived the process?"
I nodded vigorously. "Not just survived¡ªit thrived! The mint essence didn''t just mix with the astragalus; it changed it! I tested the plant afterward and discovered that it now has the potential to treat both internal injuries and minor poisons. Normally, astragalus wouldn¡¯t be nearly as effective in that category. And get this¡ªit grows faster too! After adding a second ball of mint essence, it reached full maturity right then and there!"
For the first time, a flicker of something like pride crossed Elder Ming¡¯s face. "Impressive."
"And that¡¯s not all," I added quickly, barely able to contain myself. "I¡¯ve got big theories. What if I did this with rarer herbs? Or, or¡ what if I infused multiple essences into one plant? I could create entirely new species, Elder Ming! This could revolutionize how we cultivate! Think of the potions, the salves, the elixirs!"
I knew I was babbling now, but I couldn¡¯t stop. My mind had been racing all night, and now that I had someone to talk to, it all just spilled out.
Elder Ming, to his credit, didn¡¯t laugh. He didn¡¯t even smirk. He just watched me with that calm, wise expression of his, his hands folded in his lap. But I could see it¡ªthe glint of pride in his eyes, the way his lips curved ever so slightly.
¡°This discovery could indeed be groundbreaking¡ if handled properly. But you must be cautious. Such experimentation, while innovative, is also unpredictable. The balance of nature is delicate, you know.¡±
I nodded, but my mind was already racing to the next idea. ¡°Right, right. I¡¯ll be careful. But this could open doors we didn¡¯t even know existed!¡±
Elder Ming smiled softly, but his gaze drifted past me, settling on the horizon where the first light of dawn was spreading across the sky. His usual calm demeanor seemed slightly distant, as if his thoughts were far away, lost in some deeper reflection.
I sipped my tea, the warmth of it starting to calm the buzzing in my mind. But something about his expression gnawed at me. Was he unhappy with what I was doing? Did he think I was getting too reckless?
"Is... something bothering you?" I asked carefully, unsure if I had overstepped. "You don¡¯t seem too thrilled about this."
His eyes softened, but he didn¡¯t respond right away. Instead, he looked down at his tea, swirling it lightly in the cup before letting out a quiet sigh. "It¡¯s not your discoveries, Kai," he finally said. "In fact, I¡¯m proud of what you¡¯ve accomplished. But there¡¯s something else. Something in the air these days¡"
"What do you mean?"
"So much has changed in the past year, after decades of normalcy. The Heavenly Interface suddenly appeared, the sects rising in power, strange events occurring all over the province¡ It¡¯s as if the world itself is shifting. And not just gradually, but rapidly. Like we¡¯re all being pulled toward something.¡±
The weight of his words settled heavily on me. I remembered my conversation with Han Wei and Li Na before I left. Things had been moving fast¡ªtoo fast. My thoughts drifted to the Silent Moon Sect, how they¡¯d grown so powerful so quickly, how the Heavenly Interface had brought a new kind of pressure on everyone, and how everything seemed to be racing toward an unknown end.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
¡°One falling leaf heralds autumn for the whole world,¡± Elder Ming said quietly, his voice barely a whisper.
For a while, neither of us spoke.
Finally, he broke the silence. ¡°You¡¯ve done well, Kai. And you¡¯ll need to keep doing well, because the world we¡¯re in now¡ it¡¯s not the same one you grew up in. It¡¯s changing faster than any of us can keep up with. But change brings opportunity too.¡±
I looked at him, nodding slowly. The excitement I¡¯d felt earlier still lingered, but it was tempered now, wrapped in a strange sense of foreboding.
¡°I understand,¡± I said quietly, more to myself than to him.
The tension hanging in the air was starting to gnaw at me. I needed to change the subject before I got swallowed by it.
¡°Well, since I¡¯m already here, how about we get started on training early?¡± I asked, forcing a grin onto my face. ¡°No point in sitting around when we could be working on my ¡®roots'', right?¡±
Elder Ming¡¯s eyes twinkled at my attempt to lighten the mood. ¡°Ah, so you¡¯re eager to torture yourself, I see,¡± he said, setting down his cup and standing. ¡°Very well. Let¡¯s begin.¡±
We started with the basics; horse stance, balancing rocks, the familiar drills that always seemed deceptively simple until you were halfway through and your legs were screaming in protest. And as usual, without using my qi. Even with the exhaustion gnawing at me, I pushed through, determined not to let the lack of sleep slow me down. My mind kept wandering back to Elder Ming¡¯s words, but I channeled that unease into my movements, keeping my focus sharp.
As the morning progressed, we moved on to practicing basic forms. I could feel my body resisting, the weight of the sleepless night pulling at my limbs, but I gritted my teeth and kept going. There was no way I was going to let fatigue stop me. How could I call myself the rising star of the Tranquil Breeze Province otherwise?
Elder Ming watched me with his usual calm, occasionally offering corrections, but mostly letting me push myself. It was only when we moved on to sparring that the real challenge began.
¡°Let¡¯s see how far you¡¯ve come,¡± he said, taking up his stance.
I nodded, positioning myself across from him. Despite his injury, Elder Ming moved with the fluidity of someone who had spent a lifetime mastering his body. I had never truly seen him fight at his peak, but even now, with his dantian destroyed, his movements were precise, every strike calculated.
We began slowly, trading blows and testing each other¡¯s reflexes. But soon enough, I felt the familiar heat of competition rising within me. I pushed harder, quicker, my strikes aimed with more precision. To my surprise, Elder Ming¡¯s defenses held, parrying and dodging with ease.
Then, I saw my opening.
As he shifted his weight for another strike, I dropped my guard and allowed his fist to hit. I redirected his momentum, using the force of his attack to fuel my own counterstrike.
BAMBOO REPRISAL COUNTER!
My fist shot forward, aimed straight for his chest, but at the last second, I held back, stopping just short of making contact.
Elder Ming¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, and for a brief moment, I caught a flicker of something in his eyes. But it was gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by a small, approving smile.
¡°Lucky strike, I guess." I said sheepishly.
He shook his head, his smile widening. ¡°Luck has nothing to do with it. You¡¯ve come far.¡±
Before I could respond, the weight of the sleepless night finally caught up with me. My legs gave out from under me, and I felt the world tilt as I collapsed toward the ground. Before I hit the dirt, Elder Ming¡¯s hand shot out, catching me by the arm and pulling me back up to my feet.
¡°You¡¯ve pushed yourself too hard,¡± he chided, though there was a hint of amusement in his voice. ¡°You can¡¯t just stay up all night and expect to be invincible by morning.¡±
I let out a tired laugh, leaning heavily on him for support. ¡°I blame you. You¡¯re the one who makes me do all these ridiculous exercises every day.¡±
¡°Ridiculous exercises that are clearly working,¡± Elder Ming countered, raising an eyebrow. ¡°And I didn¡¯t tell you to stay up all night playing with plants.¡±
We both chuckled, the tension from earlier easing into something more comfortable. For a moment, it felt like everything was back to normal, like the world wasn¡¯t changing so fast, and all that mattered was the familiar routine of training and teasing each other.
¡°You¡¯re a slave driver,¡± I muttered, a grin tugging at my lips.
¡°And you¡¯re stubborn,¡± he responded simply, giving a light chop to my head before guiding me to the edge of the courtyard.
We sat in silence for a moment, letting the quiet of the early morning settle over us. The world may have been changing around us, but for now, at least, this felt like a rare moment of peace.
As I sipped the last of my tea, I heard the faint sound of Lan-Yin and Wang Jun¡¯s voices echoing from the village path. They¡¯d be here soon. But before they arrived, I glanced at Elder Ming again, noticing the quiet stillness in his gaze. He was staring off toward the horizon, his expression distant, as though his thoughts were far away.
For a moment, I wasn¡¯t sure if I should say anything. But then, with the faintest hesitation, I spoke.
¡°I get it, you know,¡± I said, keeping my voice calm. ¡°The world¡¯s changing fast, and it¡¯s unsettling. It feels like we¡¯re standing on the edge of something big.¡±
He didn¡¯t move, but I could tell he was listening, his eyes still focused on the rising sun. I set my tea down, leaning forward a bit. ¡°But I¡¯ve been thinking,¡± I continued, ¡°about the village, the way everyone looks out for each other. We''ve all built something strong here, something that can weather change. And knowing we have each other... it makes all of this easier to face.¡±
His gaze shifted ever so slightly toward me, and I saw a flicker of surprise in his eyes. I wasn¡¯t used to being the one offering reassurance, but it felt right. I¡¯d always looked up to Elder Ming; his wisdom, his strength, but even he wasn¡¯t immune to anxiety.
¡°Master Qiang, Lan-Yin, Wang Jun, even Li Wei¡ everyone¡¯s doing their part, lifting each other up. It¡¯s hard to feel like we¡¯re alone in all this when there¡¯s so much strength in the people around us.¡±
He was quiet for a moment, the early morning light casting long shadows across the courtyard. Then he finally spoke, his voice softer than usual. ¡°Yes... we face it together.¡±
Before I could say anything more, the familiar sound of Lan-Yin¡¯s teasing voice broke the quiet.
¡°Well, look at this!¡± she called out as she and Wang Jun entered the courtyard. ¡°Kai¡¯s early for once. What did I miss? Has the world turned upside down?¡±
Wang Jun wasn¡¯t far behind, smirking as he took in the sight of me slouched over, visibly exhausted. ¡°Did Elder Ming wear you out before we even got here? You look like you¡¯re about to pass out.¡±
I straightened up, trying to muster some dignity despite the dark circles under my eyes. ¡°I came early, so I get to leave early, right, Elder Ming?¡±
Elder Ming, ever the picture of calm, raised an eyebrow, feigning thoughtfulness. ¡°Leave early? Not so fast. One more exercise before you¡¯re free to go.¡±
I groaned, throwing my head back dramatically. ¡°You¡¯re relentless, you know that?¡±
I hobbled away from Elder Ming¡¯s courtyard, cradling my bruised stomach and wincing with every step. Each inhale felt like I was sucking in a bunch of angry bees, thanks to Lan-Yin¡¯s ¡®payback¡¯ punches. Wang Jun, mercifully, had gone easy on me, but she had been waiting for that moment.
Every step felt like a reminder of just how ruthless my friends could be when given an excuse.
The morning was still young, and the village was beginning to stir. I waved at some of the early risers with my free hand, trying to maintain my composure, but internally I was already scheming to beg Tianyi for some healing the moment I got back.
¡°Good morning, Kai!¡± Xiao Bao called cheerfully.
I waved back, trying not to grimace. ¡°Morning.¡±
I trudged along, every muscle in my torso screaming for relief. There was no way I could keep this up on sheer willpower alone.
Despite the complaints running through my head, there was a strange sense of accomplishment bubbling up inside me. I had survived the training¡ªbarely¡ªand pushed through my exhaustion. And, of course, I couldn¡¯t let them know how much it actually hurt.
As I neared my shop, thinking longingly about collapsing onto a soft surface and possibly never moving again, a familiar sensation washed over me¡ªa soft chime echoed in the back of my mind.
|
Quest: Mastery of Spiritual Plant Cultivation
- Cultivate and grow fifty viable and different plant hybrids. (0/50)
|
I stopped dead in my tracks, blinking. My head snapped up, all thoughts of rest evaporating as I tried to make sense of the notification. A quest? Now?
I glanced around, half-expecting something to leap out of the bushes, but the village looked as calm as ever. Still, a quest couldn¡¯t be ignored, especially with the weight of recent changes lingering over everything.
¡°Well,¡± I sighed, straightening up as best as I could despite my aching body, ¡°I guess rest will have to wait.¡±
132. Hybrid Horizons
I knelt in the forest, staring at the small plant in front of me. My fingers brushed the rough bark of a gnarled winter vine, its curled tendrils barely clinging to life in the cold.
The extracted cinnamon essence swirled in my palm, glowing faintly, but I hesitated. I had already tried infusing two different plants, and each one had wilted within minutes. I wasn¡¯t going to let that happen again.
At least, not without understanding why.
"Alright," I muttered to myself, "one more try. And if this fails, well¡ at least we¡¯re learning something."
Behind me, Tianyi fluttered silently, her healing aura faint but warm as it brushed against my sore muscles. The combination of her presence and the crisp forest air worked wonders to clear the fog of exhaustion from my mind. She reached out to me through our bond, her voice gentle as a breeze.
''Can I help?'' she asked.
I smiled softly, feeling her concern radiate through our connection. "I¡¯m okay, Tianyi. Just need to figure this out. Besides, I¡¯m actually enjoying this. I¡¯s been a while since I got to experiment like this, out in the wild."
It had started with the wintergreen but after an infusion of cinnamon essence I had, it had shriveled in seconds, its petals blackening like scorched paper. Next was the frostroot, a plant known for thriving in harsh winters. It had fared better, lasting a few hours before wilting, its roots turning brittle and useless.
Each failure gnawed at me, but they were failures with purpose. There was a pattern forming, a commonality in each plant''s collapse that I hadn¡¯t seen before. All the plants I¡¯d experimented with shared something in common; they were all aligned with yin energy. But when I infused them with essence of herbs aligned with yang energy, they wilted.
"So there''s a limit," I murmured. "Incompatible plants die when combined with the wrong essence. That''s what the quest meant by ''viable'' hybrids."
Tianyi drifted closer, her healing aura intensifying slightly, soothing the lingering soreness in my muscles. I exhaled, letting the warmth seep into my bones. She always knew when I needed that extra support, even when I tried to brush it off.
Despite the setbacks, there was something oddly calming about this process. I felt like the herbalist I used to be, before the Heavenly Interface changed everything. Back when it was just me and the forest, before spirit beasts, sect politics, and alchemy tournaments became the norm. The failures didn¡¯t bother me as much as they might have back then. This was part of the work. Part of the journey.
I ran my fingers over the winter vine again, feeling the rough texture of its bark, its dormant energy barely clinging to life in the cold. This vine wasn¡¯t like the others. It wasn¡¯t aligned with yin energy, or skewed toward either. It was hardy but simple, growing wherever it could find a foothold, surviving on minimal resources. If any plant could handle an infusion of yang energy, it was this one.
"Okay," I whispered. "Let¡¯s try this again."
I focused on the essence, holding it above the vine. Slowly, carefully, I released the essence, letting it drip down in small, controlled pulses. The vine trembled slightly, its tendrils reacting to the infusion, but it didn¡¯t wilt. Not yet.
"That¡¯s it," I murmured. "Slow and steady."
The vine absorbed the essence gradually, its bark darkening slightly as the energy soaked in. Tianyi watched closely from her perch, her wings fluttering gently in the breeze.
I still remember that day clearly. Much like today, I had been wandering the forest looking for Moonbeam Petals. Until I found her fluttering around daintily, and setting me off on a path that changed the trajectory of my life.
I glanced over at her now, seeing the strength she carried in her delicate frame. So much has changed since then.
The vine absorbed the last of the essence, its tendrils twitching as they adjusted to the new energy. This time, it hadn¡¯t wilted. It was still alive.
|
Quest: Mastery of Spiritual Plant Cultivation
- Cultivate and grow fifty viable and different plant hybrids. (1/50)
|
I smiled at the notification, feeling a rush of excitement despite the exhaustion weighing down my limbs. Finally, some progress.
Tianyi fluttered closer, her presence warm and reassuring. I reached out to let her land on my finger. ¡°Looks like we¡¯re on the right track now.¡±
You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.
As I gathered my tools and prepared to infuse more plants, I realized I had run out of cinnamon essence. With a sigh, I glanced around the forest, deciding it was time to gather more. The plants that thrived here were abundant, more so than I remembered from my herbalist days. The forest floor was blanketed in green life, even in the dead of winter. It struck me then how much the increased flow of qi through the province had changed the landscape. Everything was growing stronger, faster¡ªlike the world itself was waking up.
A cold gust of wind swept through the trees, carrying with it the scent of snow and something else, almost imperceptible. But I brushed it off. No need to be paranoid. It was winter, and most animals were hibernating, which explained the eerie silence in the woods.
Still, the absence of small critters scurrying through the underbrush felt¡ unnatural. I hadn¡¯t seen so much as a bird or a squirrel since I entered the forest.
"Relax. It¡¯s just winter. Animals hide away this time of year." I muttered to myself.
I kept walking, scanning the undergrowth for plants to infuse. Wintergreen, wild sage, frostroot¡ªthey all thrived here, and I could extract their essence easily enough. I knelt beside a patch of wild rosemary, its spindly leaves surviving against the odds in the frost. With a flick of my wrist, I drew out its essence, watching as the shimmering energy pooled in my palm. A quick glance over my shoulder showed Tianyi circling above, keeping an eye on the surroundings.
Still, no animals. The silence nagged at me, an uneasy weight settling in the pit of my stomach. It was far too quiet, even for this season. Not even a single birdcall.
I pressed on, delving deeper into the forest. As I walked, I infused different plants, carefully selecting each one for their properties, and testing new combinations. A few more failures followed; an ice thistle shriveled after I infused it with wild sage, and a winterflower¡¯s petals withered when I combined it with frostroot, but I learned from each mistake.
¡°Alright,¡± I murmured as I knelt by another patch of wild rosemary, ¡°one more infusion, and then I''ll head back to go over the results.¡±
But just as I reached for the plant, Tianyi¡¯s voice echoed sharply through our bond.
''Something¡¯s coming.''
I froze, my fingers brushing the leaves of the rosemary. Her warning sent a chill down my spine, and I straightened, scanning the tree line.
A rustling in the bushes ahead. Something moved.
A young wolf stepped out, its fur matted and thin, ribs showing beneath its coat. Its eyes locked onto mine with a mix of fear and caution, as though it wasn¡¯t sure whether to approach or flee. It hesitated, sniffing the air, then bared its fangs at me.
Tianyi fluttered down to my shoulder, her presence a comforting weight against the sudden tension in the air. The wolf was young, too young to be hunting alone. Where was its pack?
I stayed perfectly still, my eyes locked on the wolf as it observed me with a mix of fear and aggression. There was a desperate edge to its posture. One paw lifted hesitantly as if it wanted to flee but couldn¡¯t afford to. Its nose twitched, catching my scent, and for a brief moment, I saw a flash of recognition in its eyes, but that only seemed to confuse it more.
"Tianyi," I whispered through our bond, my voice low and steady. "Can you try to calm it? Maybe we can avoid a fight."
She fluttered from my shoulder, her wings glowing faintly as she projected a calming aura toward the wolf. Her ability to communicate with animals hadn''t failed yet, and I was hoping it would work now. Her essence spread like a gentle breeze, brushing against the wolf¡¯s mind, trying to ease its tension.
But the wolf didn¡¯t calm. Instead, it flinched, stepping back as if something about me repulsed it. It growled low in its throat, a sound that sent a ripple of unease through the quiet forest. Its eyes were wide with terror, and yet, instead of running, it lowered itself into a crouch, muscles coiled and ready to spring.
''It¡¯s too scared,'' The butterfly said, her mental voice tinged with concern. ''Not responding like most animals.''
"Dammit," I muttered under my breath, shifting my stance as the wolf prepared to lunge. I clenched my fists, shifting my stance. I didn¡¯t want to hurt it. This wolf wasn¡¯t a true threat, just a starved, frightened creature lashing out. But I couldn¡¯t let it get too close.
The wolf charged.
It was fast, faster than I anticipated for something so weak. I barely had time to react, dodging to the side just as its jaws snapped at where my leg had been. The move was clumsy, driven by hunger and desperation more than skill, but it was enough to keep me on edge.
"We¡¯ve got to subdue it¡ªwithout killing it if we can," I called out to Tianyi, barely dodging another frantic lunge. My muscles screamed in protest, remnants of Elder Ming¡¯s brutal training session dulling my edge.
She dove from the air, wings shimmering as she released another wave of soothing energy, but the wolf was too far gone. Whatever had been done to it, whatever had driven it to this point, had broken something inside its mind. It was too consumed by fear and hunger.
The wolf circled me, snarling, saliva dripping from its bared fangs. Its eyes were wild, darting between me and Tianyi, as if it was still unsure whether to attack or flee. Then, with a guttural growl, it made its choice.
It leapt.
I barely had time to think, only to act.
ROOTED BANYAN STANCE!
My body locked into position, my feet anchoring me to the earth as the wolf¡¯s jaws snapped shut around my neck. But instead of the sharp, searing pain I expected, I felt only the tug of fabric¡ªits teeth punctured my robes, but my skin remained unscathed.
The wolf thrashed violently, trying to tear into me, but I remained rooted, unmoving. The stance held firm, but it came with a cost¡ªI couldn¡¯t move either. All I could do was brace myself and wait for an opening.
Tianyi, seeing my predicament, didn¡¯t hesitate. In a split second, she darted forward, her wings shimmering with a sharp edge of condensed qi. She struck with swift, deadly precision, slicing across the wolf¡¯s eyes in one clean motion.
The wolf yelped in pain, its grip on my robe loosening as it stumbled back, blinded and weakened. I could see the agony in its movements, the way its body trembled with each step. It wasn¡¯t long for this world now.
She fluttered beside me, her wings dimming as the threat faded.
I knelt beside the wolf, its body limp, its breaths shallow. There was no longer any fear in its eyes, only pain and confusion. My heart clenched. I hadn¡¯t seen wolves in this forest for years, and now this young one had died alone, far from its home. I wasn¡¯t angry¡ªnot at it, not even at the situation. Only sadness filled me.
Quickly scanning the forest floor, I spotted a patch of frostroot. I plucked a few leaves, crushing them in my fingers to release their essence. With gentle hands, I applied the essence to the wolf¡¯s wounds, hoping to ease its passing, even if I couldn¡¯t save it.
"It¡¯s okay," I whispered, my voice soft. "You don¡¯t have to fight anymore."
The wolf let out a low whine, its body shuddering as it struggled to take one last breath. I cradled its head in my lap, my hand resting gently on its thin neck. There was no anger in me, no resentment for the bite that could have been far worse.
This creature hadn¡¯t stood a chance. It had been lost, scared, and starving. And now, it was passing on, not in a frenzy of violence, but with a moment of peace, surrounded by the quiet of the forest.
Its breathing slowed, then stopped altogether. I stayed there for a long moment, my hand resting on its fur.
Tianyi perched on my shoulder, her presence comforting but subdued.
''I¡¯m sorry.''
"It¡¯s not your fault," I murmured, brushing my hand gently over the wolf¡¯s fur. "You saved me."
What had driven the creature to such desperation? It wasn¡¯t injured, just starved¡ªits fear palpable even in death.
I carefully examined its frail body but found nothing to explain its madness.
"I know," I murmured, glancing around the eerily quiet woods. "Something¡¯s wrong here."
I couldn¡¯t take the wolf back with me, so I decided to bury it. Slowly, I gathered dirt and snow, covering its small form with care. It was a simple act, but it felt right; an offering of peace after its life of suffering.
When I finished, I stood over the grave for a moment, hoping the wolf would find rest.
"It¡¯s time to go," I said, turning back to the village. The forest had changed, it was no longer safe. I made a mental note to warn the others. Something dark was at work here, and the villagers needed to be cautious. No one should go out alone.
As Tianyi perched on my shoulder, we headed back. The path felt different now, more dangerous.
The world was shifting, and the forest was only the beginning.
133. Silent Threats and Steady Hands
I sat cross-legged on the floor of my shop, surrounded by a dozen potted plants in varying states of growth. Some were familiar species I¡¯d foraged from the forest, while others were native to my garden, now transformed by the essence infusions I¡¯d been experimenting with.
Not bad, but not nearly enough.
I leaned over the newest batch, inspecting the leaves of a wild ginseng plant I had infused just the day before. Its roots, once spindly and pale, now had a faint glow, and the leaves shimmered with a vitality that hadn¡¯t been there before.
The infusion had taken, but it wasn¡¯t enough. It needed more.
"Resilient plants," I muttered, running my fingers gently along the ginseng¡¯s stalk. ¡°That¡¯s the key.¡±
Plants like this one, hardy and built to survive in tough conditions, seemed to absorb essence more easily. Not like the delicate wintergreen or frostroot that had withered as soon as I tried to infuse them with anything even slightly misaligned. Ginseng, though¡ªthis one had potential. I¡¯d have to infuse it at least one more time to make sure the changes settled in, but it had already made more progress than some of my earlier experiments.
I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck. "Gotta find that balance. Too much essence and they burn out. Too little, and there''s no effect."
I glanced over at the cinnamon tree in the far corner. I¡¯d nearly given up on that one, figuring a plant of that size and strength wouldn¡¯t take to an infusion. But after several attempts, I realized it just needed more infusions of essence. Subtle, gradual infusions had started to alter it, the bark darkening in some places, the leaves becoming more robust, their edges curling slightly as they absorbed the new energy.
The trick wasn¡¯t overwhelming it with essence all at once. I had to be patient, layering the energy in stages, and allowing the tree to adjust before adding more.
"Like growing roots deeper before reaching for the sky," I murmured to myself, feeling a small smile tug at my lips. This was the kind of discovery I lived for.
Tianyi fluttered overhead, her wings shimmering softly in the afternoon light as she circled the shop, keeping a watchful eye on the garden just outside. Windy, meanwhile, slithered lazily along the edge of the potted plants, his blue-tinted scales glinting as he flicked his tongue at each one as if assessing their viability himself.
He gave a slight flick of his tail, barely acknowledging me, his attention focused on whatever invisible threat he thought might be lurking outside.
I turned back to the plants, picking up a small vial of essence from the table beside me. This one was wild sage, carefully extracted and ready for infusion. I uncorked the vial and held it over the ginseng plant, letting a single drop fall onto the soil near its roots. The plant trembled slightly as it absorbed the essence, the glow around it intensifying.
¡°Slow and steady,¡± I whispered. ¡°Let it take root.¡±
I repeated the process, careful not to overwhelm the plant. Patience had always been the hardest part for me, but if I¡¯d learned anything in the past few weeks, it was that rushing wouldn¡¯t get me anywhere.
The cinnamon tree was next. I approached it, admiring the subtle changes that had already begun to take hold. The bark was tougher now, its scent stronger, more fragrant.
I tipped the vial over the base of the tree, watching as the essence soaked into the soil, and took a step back.
|
Quest: Mastery of Spiritual Plant Cultivation
- Cultivate and grow fifty viable and different plant hybrids. (12/50)
|
¡°Thirty-eight to go,¡± I muttered, but there was no frustration in my voice, only determination. ¡°Piece by piece.¡±
I stood, stretching my arms over my head as the late afternoon light streamed through the windows. ¡°Well, I think that¡¯s enough for today.¡±
With the plants infused and the day¡¯s experimentation wrapped up, I turned my attention to the other task at hand¡ªthe contract with the Azure Silk Trading Company. My first batch was due today.
Stacks of elixirs sat neatly on my workbench. At first, the contract had seemed like a mountain to climb. I¡¯d promised a larger supply than I probably should have in exchange for a bigger advance, but with the improvements in my techniques, the challenge was easier than I initially thought.
Thanks to the Refinement Simulation technique, I cut off the unnecessary steps. Combined with my Two Star Pagoda Pill Furnace, the work had become almost seamless. What would¡¯ve taken a full month before now took only a fraction of the time.
I began carefully organizing the vials, securing each one with padded cloth and placing them inside small wooden crates. As I stacked the last few, a small crate of essences caught my eye, a gift I¡¯d prepared for the Verdant Lotus sect I''d be sending off alongside this. It was a personal touch, something to show appreciation for the opportunities they had provided me with.
The crate was filled with purified essences: ginseng, wintergreen, cinnamon, and even some Moonlit Grace Lily, a batch that I was particularly proud of. Each one was carefully bottled, glowing faintly with the raw power of the plants they¡¯d been extracted from. It was a simple gesture, but one I hoped would go a long way toward building a stronger relationship with the sect that gave so much without expecting anything in return.
With the last vial stored, I moved everything outside, placing the crates onto the wooden cart that sat just outside my shop. The cart creaked under the weight, but it held steady as I double-checked the straps, making sure nothing would shift during transport.
As I stepped back to inspect my work, my eyes drifted toward the unfinished greenhouse. One side of it was seamlessly joined to the wall of my shop, the wood so expertly fitted together that it looked like one continuous piece, sloping downward. It would allow rainwater to run off easily, something I hadn¡¯t even considered until Li Wei pointed it out in the initial design.
The craftsmanship was impeccable, each beam and joint meticulously designed to serve a purpose.
"That kid¡¯s a genius," I muttered, a smile creeping onto my face as I ran my hand along one of the beams. "I¡¯d be drowning in waterlogged plants if he hadn¡¯t fixed that."
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Windy and Tianyi moved cautiously around the perimeter, their attention focused outward, vigilant as ever. I¡¯d noticed how on edge they¡¯d been lately, and while I hadn¡¯t seen anything to warrant concern, I trusted their instincts. Tianyi¡¯s wings shimmered softly in the fading light as she circled above the garden while Windy slithered gracefully between the pots, his bluish-white scales gleaming in the evening sun.
The elixirs were complete, this month''s quota fulfilled, and the greenhouse was on its way to becoming a reality. I¡¯d even made solid progress on my quest, with twelve successful hybrids now under my belt. Things were moving forward, slowly but surely.
"Guard the place well!" I shouted to the two.
I grabbed the handles of the cart and set off toward the village square, the wheels creaking softly as I pushed it along the well-worn path. The late afternoon air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and wood smoke. As I made my way through the village, familiar faces greeted me, some waving, others nodding in acknowledgment. I smiled and waved back.
What used to be a simple tent had now transformed into a proper building, a sturdy wooden structure that spoke of permanence. The company wasn¡¯t just passing through, they were here to stay. Finally! It only took my brilliance and potential for them to see how Gentle Wind Village was a hidden gem!
As I approached the outpost, Huan stood outside, talking animatedly with one of the villagers. He waved when he saw me coming, a broad smile spreading across his face.
"Kai! Here to drop off the batch?" he asked as I parked the cart near the entrance.
"Yep, all ready to go," I replied, gesturing to the crates on the cart. "How¡¯ve things been on your end?"
"Busy, as usual," Huan chuckled, his eyes gleaming with the usual merchant¡¯s cheerfulness. "But you¡¯ll be pleased to know that something else arrived for you this morning."
He stepped back and gestured toward the side of the building where several large bundles were stacked. "The glass you ordered finally made it in."
My eyes widened as I took in the sight. The bundles were wrapped securely in layers of straw, hay, and thick cloth, but the faint shimmer of glass could be seen through the wrappings. It was enough to fill a cart much larger than the one I had now, easily doubling the load I¡¯d brought.
"That¡¯s more than I expected," I said, excitement bubbling up inside me. "This is going to be perfect for the greenhouse."
Huan grinned. "Figured you¡¯d be happy to see it. We made sure to pack it extra carefully for the journey; don¡¯t want any cracks, especially with glass this fine."
He handed me a small stack of letters, tied together with a thin piece of string. "These came with it as well. From Crescent Bay, I believe."
I untied the bundle, immediately recognizing the familiar emblem on one of them. One was from Feng Wu, the other from Zhi Ruo. A surge of curiosity filled me, but I¡¯d save those for later. For now, there was business to handle.
"Thanks, Huan," I said, tucking the letters away in my robe. "I¡¯ll read these later. How¡¯s the payment looking?"
"Should be processed by the end of the week," he replied, nodding toward the crates of elixirs on the cart. "And the ingredients for the next batch is due to come next week."
"Good to hear. Also, while you¡¯re at it, place an order for Tranquil Breeze Farm," I said casually, rattling off a list of herbs. These were ones I couldn¡¯t grow in my garden, either because they were too temperamental or required special conditions I hadn¡¯t yet mastered. Perfect for infusion experimentation, but there was no need to mention that part just yet.
Huan scribbled down the list quickly, nodding. "Consider it done."
I glanced over at the large bundles of glass, already picturing how they would look installed in the greenhouse. "Alright, I¡¯ll take these to Li Wei¡¯s place. He¡¯ll want to know the glass has arrived."
"Need a hand with the transport?" Huan offered.
"Nah, I¡¯ve got it. I¡¯ll take it slow. No sense rushing and breaking something after all this effort."
"Fair enough. Well, let me know if you need anything else."
With that, I carefully loaded the bundles of glass onto the cart, securing them with extra ropes to keep them from shifting. It was a tight fit, but the cart managed to hold everything without issue. I gave the straps one last tug, making sure they were secure before setting off toward Li Wei¡¯s family home.
As I moved slowly through the village, careful to avoid any bumps or rough patches in the road, I couldn¡¯t help but admire the craftsmanship of the glass itself. Each piece had been wrapped with care, its faint shimmer visible even through the thick layers of cloth.
The sun was beginning to set as I arrived at Li Wei¡¯s home, casting a warm orange glow over the village. I parked the cart outside and knocked on the door. Within moments, Li Wei appeared, wiping his hands on a rag. He blinked in surprise when he saw the cart full of glass.
"It¡¯s here already?"
"Yep. Just arrived this afternoon," I said, gesturing to the bundles. "Figured you¡¯d want to see it for yourself."
Li Wei¡¯s eyes lit up as he approached the cart, examining the bundles with a keen eye. "This is going to be perfect. We can start installing the glass as soon as we finish the framework."
I grinned. "Glad to hear it. I¡¯ll leave this with you, then. Let me know when you¡¯re ready for the next step."
He gave a nod of thanks, his focus already shifting to the task at hand. I could tell his mind was working through the logistics of installing the glass, and I trusted him to handle it with the same precision he had shown with the rest of the greenhouse.
I made my way back toward the shop. The evening air was cool, and the fading light cast long shadows across the village paths. My mind wandered back to the letters Huan had handed me earlier.
Once I was settled back in my shop, I untied the string around the letters, deciding to read Feng Wu¡¯s first.
As expected, Feng Wu¡¯s letter was full of the meticulous detail I¡¯d come to associate with him. He confirmed what I had been hoping to learn: Master Li Tao, the originator of the Essence Extraction technique, had never been able to infuse plants with the extracted essences. This solidified what I had suspected; this ability to fuse essences with living plants was unique to the Spiritual Plant Cultivation skill.
¡°So it really is tied to me,¡± I muttered dumbly.
The fact that this infusion ability was something even legendary alchemists hadn¡¯t mastered made me feel both proud and a little apprehensive. There was no precedent for what I was doing. But that was as unnerving as it was exciting. There was no blueprint for what I was doing. Just me, feeling my way through it.
After finishing Feng Wu¡¯s letter, I opened the second one, from Zhi Ruo. I hadn''t heard from him since we last saw each other in the Gauntlet. I leaned back in my chair as I began to read, expecting a long debrief.
But as my eyes moved over the words, my mood shifted.
The parchment felt rough under my fingers as I began to read.
Hey Kai,
First off, I hope things are going well back at home. I''ve been busy getting acclimated to my new position here at the Whispering Wind sect. They move quite fast compared to a library, you see. I¡¯ve managed to secure a position as a junior alchemist under Jingyu Lian.
My smile froze.
Jingyu Lian. Her name stirred up something complex within me. I still remember our battle, her techniques so flawless, her composure so unwavering. I¡¯d convinced myself I¡¯d moved past that loss, but clearly, the bitterness hadn¡¯t entirely faded.
¡°Wonder how that''s like? Working with her...¡± I muttered under my breath.
I continued reading, bracing myself.
I know what you¡¯re probably thinking right now, but listen: this is an opportunity I couldn¡¯t pass up. She may be ruthless, but she¡¯s got knowledge that runs deep. Being in her shadow is better than being in anyone else¡¯s spotlight, you know what I mean?
He wasn¡¯t wrong. Jingyu Lian was one of the best, and if he could learn from her, it would only strengthen his skills.
¡°Well, good for you, Zhi,¡± I muttered, though my tone lacked conviction.
That being said, something¡¯s going on over here that doesn¡¯t sit right with me. You probably haven¡¯t heard yet, but there¡¯s been some serious turmoil regarding the Iron Claw Sect. They¡¯ve either gone completely silent or¡ something worse. No one¡¯s heard from them in weeks. They''re a minor sect about a few hours northwest of Qingmu, if you didn''t know.
I paused, the weight of his words settling in. Shan Huai. Wasn''t he part of the Iron Claw Sect? That wasn¡¯t normal, especially for a sect that had vying for control of Qingmu. What could have happened?
I leaned forward, reading on, my grip tightening on the parchment.
The rumor is that the Silent Moon Sect might be involved. Nothing¡¯s confirmed, but let¡¯s be real¡ªthose rumors didn¡¯t come out of nowhere. People are scared, Kai. Sect politics have always been messy, but this? This feels different. There¡¯s talk of retaliation, of sects mobilizing.
The Silent Moon Sect. Of course, they¡¯d be tied to something like this. I¡¯d been suspicious of them from the start, but if they were responsible for an entire sect¡¯s disappearance... this could be bad. Very bad.
I¡¯m telling you this because you need to be careful. You¡¯re out there in that village, building your reputation and all, but if things escalate, places like Gentle Wind won¡¯t be overlooked. You and I both know how quickly sects move when they feel threatened.
I ran a hand through my hair, trying to process it all. He was right. If the Silent Moon Sect was really behind the Iron Claw Sect¡¯s disappearance, and if the rumors of retaliation were true, things could spiral out of control. And fast.
I could already see the pieces falling into place. Gentle Wind Village might be small, but it wasn¡¯t insignificant. With the Azure Silk Trading Company investing in the area, the attention I was bringing to the village with my alchemical work, and the growing tensions between the sects¡ it wouldn¡¯t take much for us to get caught in the crossfire.
Anyway, keep your head down for now, and don¡¯t do anything too flashy. I know that¡¯s hard for you, but try. Next time we meet, remind me to show you a new elixir I¡¯ve been working on. It¡¯s not bad, if I do say so myself.
Stay safe, Kai.
¡ªZhi Ruo
I sat back, the letter resting on my lap as I let out a long breath.
¡°Don¡¯t do anything too flashy, huh?¡± I muttered, shaking my head.
Easier said than done, when I lived the way I did. Being the center of attention was as natural as breathing!
Tianyi fluttered over, landing lightly on my shoulder. Her presence was a comfort, but I could feel the tension radiating from her as well. She must''ve sensed my unease.
''What''s wrong?''
¡°Nothing, just stupid politicking,¡± I said quietly, more to myself than to her. I folded the letter and set it aside, staring at it for a long moment. "Don''t worry about it."
I stood up, looking at my array of ingredients with a critical eye.
Everything had been progressing well, slowly, carefully¡ªjust the way I liked it. Plants needed time to adjust, to take root before reaching for the sky. I had to be patient, layering essence in small doses to let them thrive.
But this world I was in? It didn¡¯t seem to share my fondness for patience.
¡°Slow and steady,¡± I muttered, echoing my own words from earlier. But as much as I wanted to stick to that, I had a sinking feeling that slow and steady wasn¡¯t going to be enough this time. Not with sects disappearing and power plays being made in the shadows.
It looked like I¡¯d have to speed things up after all.
134. The Unfolding Path
The sky above was a pale, wintery gray, casting a soft, muted light over the village below. From her perch on the branch of an old, sturdy oak tree, Tianyi surveyed the scene unfolding beneath her. The villagers moved about with hurried purpose, their footsteps crunching lightly in the snow-covered ground.
Her small wings fluttered lightly, catching the air as she hovered silently, her gaze fixated on the figure of Kai in the distance. He stood at the edge of the village, deep in conversation with a younger boy. Li Wei, she recalled. Though she could not hear their words, she could feel the undercurrent of urgency that hung between them.
The world of immortals was once again stirring. Kai seemed to be always entangled in something bigger than her, something larger than the simple life she had once known.
But there was something different this time. She had been beside him for long enough to notice it. The unrest wasn¡¯t just a passing storm. it was a gathering storm, dark and heavy on the horizon.
Her wings stilled, and she landed softly on the branch, folding them close to her body. She glanced to her left, where Windy was coiled lazily on a rock below, basking in the faint warmth of the sun. He looked peaceful, but Tianyi knew how quickly the serpent could strike. Fast, agile, and deadly. Windy was strong, even in his youth. His strength came naturally.
Tianyi''s gaze lingered on the serpent for a long moment, and a familiar feeling began to coil in her chest.
Envy.
Not a bitter envy, but a quiet, yearning kind. He had been born with the power to protect, to fight. It was part of his nature, a gift that came effortlessly. Yin Si, too¡ªthe spider she befriended, whom Kai had honored with a name¡ªhad their own power, webs spun with precision, movements calculated and purposeful.
''And I... I was born with wings that fluttered delicately in gardens, meant to dance in the air, not battle in it.''
The thought gnawed at her. Every day, the world seemed to grow darker, the threats looming larger, and she could feel the weight of the unspoken expectation pressing down on her.
The pressure to evolve, to become something more, twisted inside her, feeding her doubt. The more she dwelled on it, the heavier it felt, until it spiraled into a loop of uncertainty and frustration, each thought more desperate than the last.
Even with the gifts Kai had given her, the mysterious liquid that had sharpened her wings and enhanced her speed, it didn¡¯t feel like enough. She had grown faster, yes, but that speed couldn¡¯t shield Kai from the dangers that lurked beyond the village. The memory of that fierce beast just a few days ago came unbidden.
Her wings twitched in frustration. It wasn¡¯t as though she hadn¡¯t tried. Time and time again, she had pushed herself to the limits, testing her new abilities, hoping they would be enough. But every time the immortals clashed¡ªevery time Kai faced danger¡ªshe felt herself limited, helpless in her current form. She was no longer a mere butterfly, and yet...
''It¡¯s still not enough,'' she thought bitterly, glancing down at her delicate frame.
Even though she had surpassed her original limits, she knew deep down that her current form would never be enough to stand by Kai¡¯s side, not against the likes of the immortals and the dangers that came with them. No matter how fast she flew or how sharp her wings became, she remained small, still fragile in comparison to the beings Kai now moved among.
You can transform, can¡¯t you? Into a human form.
She remembered Kai¡¯s words, spoken in a tone of quiet assurance. He had told her about spirit beasts that, through enlightenment, could change their forms. They could take on shapes that allowed them to fight alongside immortals, to walk the world on two feet rather than wings or claws.
But how? How could she find that path within herself when it felt so distant, so impossible? She had tried to focus, to meditate as Kai did, but it all seemed so far out of reach. And every time she looked at her small, fluttering wings, the doubt crept back in, stronger than before.
''I don¡¯t know how,'' she whispered, her wings drooping as the realization settled into her body. ''I don¡¯t know how to become more.''
Her gaze flickered back to Kai. He was laughing now, shaking his head at something Li Wei said, though the tension still lingered beneath his smile. Kai was different from the boy she had first bonded with. He had grown so much in the time they had been together, evolving into someone she hardly recognized, yet someone she admired even more. He was powerful, resourceful, and a protector.
''And me? What am I now?'' Tianyi wondered. ''Am I still just the butterfly in his shadow?''Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.
She knew Kai didn¡¯t see her that way. He valued her, cared for her. But that wasn¡¯t the issue. It was her own perception, the way she felt every time she fluttered above his shoulder, watching him face dangers she could never hope to fight head-on like he did.
''I want to stand beside him,'' she whispered to herself, her wings fluttering softly. ''Not behind him.''
But the path to that dream still felt hidden, lost somewhere deep within her. She had to find it. Somehow.
As the cold breeze swept through the village, carrying with it the scent of pine and snow, Tianyi spread her wings again and lifted into the air, leaving the garden in her wake.
She was fast¡ªfaster than any of them could hope to achieve. She could slice through the air like a blade, nigh untouchable at her full power. But was that enough? Could speed alone protect Kai? Could it defend the garden when real danger arrived?
How could she find it? She had tried everything the immortals did. Meditating, focusing, pushing her qi, but nothing had worked. The form she longed for, the strength she knew she needed, was elusive¡ªjust beyond her reach.
But why? What was she missing?
For a long time, she had been content with simply being beside Kai. Flying in the skies, keeping watch, bringing him comfort when needed. But now... now everything was changing. The world was growing more dangerous, more complex, and the simple joys she had once known no longer seemed enough. Kai needed her to be more, whether he admitted it or not.
Tianyi descended slowly, landing on a large boulder near the edge of the forest, her wings folding tightly against her back. The faint smell of frost and damp earth filled her senses, grounding her, even as her mind raced. Her gaze flickered to her reflection in a small, frozen pond at the base of the boulder.
A butterfly. That was all she saw. A beautiful, fragile thing. And yet, that image felt... incomplete.
Her thoughts spun in circles, frustration building. It was like trying to catch the wind; this feeling of becoming something greater, of breaking free from her current form. It was close, tantalizing, but every time she reached for it, it slipped away.
''What am I missing?'' she thought, her wings twitching in agitation.
Her eyes fell on her reflection again, and suddenly, a memory flashed through her mind. Not of Kai, but of Yin Si¡ªthe spider. When Kai had first named her, Tianyi had noticed a change in the creature. It was subtle, but there was a shift in the way Yin Si carried herself, the way it spun its webs with more confidence, more purpose. The name had given the spider a sense of identity, of recognition.
A name. An acknowledgment of existence. Of purpose.
Her wings fluttered slightly as the realization dawned on her. All this time, she had been looking outward, trying to force herself into something greater. But perhaps... perhaps the answer lay not in pushing for change, but in accepting herself as she was now.
''I was never just a butterfly.''
She was more. She had always been more. It wasn¡¯t about transforming into something else, something entirely different. It was about embracing everything she had become and everything she had yet to be. She wasn¡¯t Windy, born a predator. She wasn¡¯t Yin Si, weaving webs of instinctual precision. She was herself, with her own path.
The strength she needed wasn¡¯t about shedding her wings. It was about owning them. Owning the journey that had brought her here, beside Kai, and the journey that would carry her further.
''It¡¯s within me.''
| Your understanding of the dao has deepened. |
She had been waiting for some grand sign, some moment of enlightenment to strike her like lightning, but perhaps enlightenment wasn¡¯t always so dramatic. Sometimes, it was quiet. A slow unfolding, like the opening of a flower¡¯s petals. A transformation that started not with a flash, but with a whisper.
She stilled, feeling the pulse of her qi. It flowed through her like a river, steady and sure. And there, in the quiet of the forest, with the cold air swirling around her, she let go of her doubts.
And in that moment, something shifted.
The air around her seemed to thrum with energy, and her body began to glow, a soft, ethereal light radiating from her wings. It wasn¡¯t forced. It wasn¡¯t something she was trying to do. It was happening naturally as if her body had been waiting for her mind to catch up.
Her form began to change.
It was a gentle transformation, her wings elongating, her body stretching, reshaping. She remained grounded, her wings growing larger, more vibrant, like an unfolding promise of something new.
As the transformation began, she felt a deep shift in her core. Her six legs, once designed for nothing more than clinging to leaves and flowers, quivered.
Two of them slowly retracted into her body, disappearing entirely, while the remaining four began to elongate and reshape. Muscle and bone formed where before there had only been fragile, delicate limbs. She felt herself stretching and reforming, her lightweight, fluttering frame becoming something more grounded, more substantial.
It wasn¡¯t a painful change, but it was strange; both exhilarating and unnerving. Each movement, each ripple of change, felt deliberate as if her body had always known how to grow into this new form. Her soft butterfly abdomen slimmed and reshaped, giving way to a slender, humanoid torso.
Her arms began to form from the two remaining upper limbs. What had once been thin legs meant for perching now shifted, growing into lithe, graceful arms. Hands emerged, fingers unfurling at the tips, though they still retained the faint, iridescent sheen of her butterfly heritage. These were not the fragile appendages she once had¡ªthey were tools of precision and power, capable of wielding the strength she had always known lay dormant inside her.
Tianyi''s antennae receded slightly, disappearing into the thick, silken strands of hair that cascaded down her back, gleaming with a subtle, otherworldly glow. Her compound eyes, once suited for her insect form, reshaped themselves but didn¡¯t lose their sharpness. They retained an iridescent sheen and a wide field of vision, though now they had a new, focused clarity, able to see details with a precision she had never known before. She could sense movement, feel the world around her with a sensitivity far beyond her previous form.
Her wings, too, changed. They didn¡¯t vanish but became even grander, fanning out behind her. Larger, more intricate, they shimmered with every subtle movement, no longer just tools for flight, but symbols of the strength and beauty she had grown into. These wings were still her essence, an integral part of her being.
Her legs, now fully formed, were long and lithe, designed not just for standing but for running, leaping, moving with an agility her butterfly form had never known.
When the transformation was complete, Tianyi stood on two legs for the first time. She glanced down at her hands.
What had once been legs meant for clinging to flowers had transformed into strong, dexterous fingers. The faint bioluminescent markings along her arms and legs pulsed gently. Her body, though slender and graceful, thrummed with hidden strength, the chitinous sheen of her skin shimmering under the faint winter light.
Tentatively, she took a step forward, her feet meeting the earth with a newfound solidity. The sensation was strange but exhilarating. Her wings fluttered lightly behind her, still a part of her but no longer the only way she could move. She didn¡¯t need them to carry her anymore. She could walk, run, leap, and face whatever challenges came her way.
Her gaze shifted to a small, frozen pond nearby, and for the second time, she caught sight of her reflection. The figure staring back at her was not entirely human. Her eyes retained their mesmerizing, iridescent glow, and faint chitinous plates shimmered just beneath the surface of her skin.
A wide, disbelieving smile spread across her lips. This was her. Not just a butterfly, not just a companion, but something more. She had found her path, not by shedding who she was, but by embracing every part of herself, allowing her transformation to grow from within rather than forcing it.
¡°I¡¯ve found it,¡± she whispered, a soft smile spreading across her face. ¡°I¡¯ve found my path.¡±
And now, she could stand beside Kai, not behind him.
135. Training Amidst Stillness
I waved goodbye to Li Wei as he disappeared back into his family''s workshop, his excitement about the greenhouse infectious. The glass panes had arrived in perfect condition, and he was eager to start installing them first thing in the morning. As I turned to head home, the evening air was crisp, carrying the subtle scent of pine and woodsmoke. The village was settling down for the night, but my mind was anything but quiet.
Walking along the familiar path, I couldn''t help but replay Elder Ming''s words from this morning''s training session.
"Conditioning isn''t just about toughening your body. It''s about understanding the mechanics, the flow of energy, and how to deliver power without harming yourself."
At the time, I''d nodded along, thinking I understood. But the more I mulled it over, the more I realized I''d missed a crucial nuance. My approach had been all wrong. I was so focused on hardening my fists and shins by striking unyielding surfaces that I''d overlooked the essence of the practice.
I paused mid-stride and threw a punch into the open air, imagining the impact against a solid, unmoving tree trunk. My knuckles twinged at the thought, having experienced it far too often. Then I visualized the same punch connecting with something that had a bit of give, like a flexible piece of wood or bundled reeds. The difference was palpable, even in my mind. Striking a surface that absorbed some of the impact would allow me to focus on technique, ensuring proper alignment and energy transfer without the immediate risk of injury.
"A perfect punch shouldn''t hurt the one throwing it," I muttered to myself, recalling Elder Ming''s mantra. It made sense now. By practicing on something with slight resistance, I''d not only improve my form but also condition my body more effectively.
A smile tugged at the corners of my mouth as a plan began to form. I needed to build a training apparatus that embodied these principles; a target that could mimic the resistance of an opponent while still offering enough flexibility to prevent self-injury.
"Perhaps a post wrapped in layers of bamboo strips or padded with woven fibers..."
The last rays of sunlight painted the sky in hues of orange and purple as I reached my home. The familiar sight of my shop and the partially constructed greenhouse brought a sense of comfort. I stepped inside, expecting to hear the soft flutter of Tianyi''s wings or catch a glimpse of her darting through the rafters. But the space was quiet, save for the gentle creaking of the floorboards beneath my feet.
"Tianyi?" I called out, glancing around. No response. Odd. She usually greeted me the moment I returned.
Shrugging it off, I reasoned she might be tending to the garden or off bisecting another bird. She was a free spirit, after all. I made a mental note to check on her later.
Setting my thoughts back on the training apparatus, I rummaged through my supplies, gathering materials that might serve my purpose. As I worked, Windy slithered into the room, his blue-tinted scales catching the light.
"Have you seen Tianyi around?" I asked him.
He paused, tongue flickering before giving what could only be described as a serpentine shrug. I chuckled softly. "Thanks for the help."
Back outside, I began assembling the training post. I drove a sturdy stake into the ground, ensuring it was firmly planted. Around it, I layered thinner branches, binding them tightly with cord to create a surface that was solid yet yielding. Testing it with a light tap, I felt it give ever so slightly.
"Perfect," I whispered.
I took a stance, feet shoulder-width apart, grounding myself as Elder Ming had taught me. Drawing a deep breath, I executed a series of punches, each one deliberate and controlled. The post absorbed the blows, the slight resistance allowing me to focus on the mechanics¡ªalignment of my wrist, the rotation of my hips, the grounding of my stance.
The difference was immediate. Without the harsh jarring of striking an immovable object, I could sense the flow of energy from my core to my fist. It felt right.The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
After a few minutes, I shifted to practicing knife-hand strikes, something I hadn''t devoted much time to before. Positioning my hand with fingers straight and tight together, I struck the post''s surface with the edge of my hand. The unfamiliar motion sent a mild sting up my arm, but I adjusted my technique, ensuring proper form.
"Every part of the fist needs conditioning," I reminded myself. "Not just the knuckles."
I continued alternating between strikes, slowly building a rhythm. The evening air cooled the light sheen of sweat on my brow, and for a moment, all distractions faded away. It was just me, the post, and the steady cadence of my training.
Time slipped by, and the sky deepened into twilight. Finally, I lowered my hands, flexing my fingers to ease the slight stiffness settling in. There was a satisfying ache¡ªa sign of muscles worked but not overstrained. This would have to do for now, especially since my supply of healing hydrosol was running out.
Glancing back toward the house, I expected to see Tianyi''s soft glow or hear the gentle buzz of her wings. But the yard remained quiet, shadows stretching across the ground.
I frowned, a nagging feeling creeping up my spine. She was never gone for this long. Her usual flitting about the garden or appearing to hover near me had become a staple of my day, a constant that I relied on more than I realized. But now¡ nothing.
"Tianyi?" I called out again, louder this time, as I approached the house. Still no answer.
A flicker of unease stirred within me. I glanced around the yard, scanning for any sign of her, but the fading light made it hard to see much. I reached out through the bond we shared, closing my eyes to focus. It was faint, like trying to grasp at a fading echo, but I could sense her. Barely.
With my heart beating faster, I centered myself and tried to focus on the faint pull of our bond. It led¡ toward the forest. The same direction where that wolf had attacked just days ago. A cold realization hit me, and my chest tightened.
''No. She couldn¡¯t have¡ª''
I didn¡¯t finish the thought. Without another moment¡¯s hesitation, I infused qi into my legs and bolted, sprinting toward the tree line. Each stride felt like I was covering several li, the world blurring as I pushed myself harder. Wind roared in my ears, but I didn¡¯t stop.
The thought of finding her hurt, or worse, sent a chill down my spine. My breath quickened, turning ragged as my chest tightened, and for a moment, I thought I might choke on the air itself.
The forest loomed ahead, the trees dark silhouettes against the deepening night. The quiet was unnerving. No birds, no insects, only the sound of my own heartbeat, too loud in my ears.
"Tianyi!" I shouted, desperation lacing my voice.
My breaths came in sharp bursts as I focused harder on our bond, sensing her presence nearby, though still faint. My eyes darted left and right, scanning the darkened underbrush. The tension in the air felt thick, palpable, and every shadow seemed to whisper danger.
Then, through the thicket, I caught a glimpse of movement.
I froze.
A figure stood amidst the trees, small and seemingly fragile, but there was something deeply unnatural about them. My breath stilled as I took in the sight.
At first glance, it seemed like a girl, but the more I looked, the more I realized that wasn¡¯t right.
The wings were the first thing I noticed, bright blue and shimmering in the pale moonlight, sprouting from her back and fluttering gently.
Her skin was smooth and pale, but it wasn¡¯t quite right. Lines ran across her body in sections, like the joints of finely crafted lacquered wood or the seams of porcelain figurines. Each segment was slightly raised, as though her skin had been formed in pieces and fitted together. Her hair cascaded down, with two distinct strands falling down and framing her face.
It was her eyes that unsettled me the most¡ªfar too large for a human face, dark and shimmering, holding a depth that felt more animal than person. And though her form was otherwise unclothed, it was devoid of any real detail, as if she had been sculpted from jade.
And yet, her wings... those wings were undeniably familiar.
My mind struggled to comprehend what I was seeing.
I took a step forward, my mouth dry, words caught somewhere between disbelief and confusion. And then, the possibility hit me like a wave.
"...Tianyi?"
The figure turned, her too-wide smile gleaming unnaturally bright. My pulse quickened as she locked her gaze onto me. My mouth went dry, and a prickling sensation crept up the back of my neck. It felt like the earth itself was tilting beneath me.
The air shifted with her movement, a blur of blue wings and shadow. One moment she was distant, the next, her wings stirred the wind around me, her fingers wrapped around my wrists before I could blink.
But there was no attack. Instead, she grabbed my wrists, her grip gentle yet firm, and a warm, soothing energy flowed from her touch. The cuts and bruises from my training earlier began to heal, the pain fading away almost instantly.
"I figured it out," she said softly, her voice surprisingly clear, yet carrying an otherworldly echo. "I figured out how to become human."
My vision swam, blurring the world around me as the realization crashed into me like a tidal wave¡ªthis was Tianyi. Somehow, impossibly, she had transformed¡ªbecome something beyond what I could comprehend. But my mind struggled to keep up, the flood of emotions and disbelief colliding with the stark reality in front of me.
A sharp heat surged through my body, too intense for the winter chill that clung to the air. Sweat trickled down the back of my neck, soaking into my collar despite the icy breeze. My heart pounded violently in my chest, each beat louder than the last, echoing in my ears like the relentless drumming of war. I felt the world tilting, my legs unsteady, my skin burning as if the very air had thickened, pressing down on me.
The cold that should have been biting at my skin barely registered; instead, I felt fevered, my breath coming in shallow, ragged bursts. Every nerve in my body tingled with confusion, panic, and awe, all tangled together in a mess I couldn''t unravel.
Her smile, a smile that was too wide, too perfect, never faltered as she watched me, but the edges of my vision began to darken. The world around me dimmed, the sound of the forest fading into a muffled hum. My legs trembled, the strength in them slipping away as my knees buckled under the weight of everything.
¡°Tianyi...¡± I whispered, my voice barely more than a strained breath. My head felt too light, too heavy at the same time, and I knew I was losing the battle to stay conscious.
The heat in my chest rose higher, consuming the last remnants of my awareness. My eyelids fluttered shut, and as the darkness rushed in, the last thing I saw was her standing there, her wings shimmering faintly in the moonlight.
And then, everything went black.
136. Wings of Change
I woke up with a start, gasping as my eyes flew open, my heart pounding so hard it felt like it would break through my chest.
My bed. I was in my bed. The familiar scent of herbs and woodsmoke clung to the air, and I could see that the sky was pitch black outside.
I sat up, rubbing my eyes. The last thing I remembered... Tianyi. The forest. That strange form with her wings.
"Was it just a nightmare?" I muttered under my breath, running a hand through my hair. Maybe I had been overworked. Too much training, not enough sleep. It wouldn¡¯t have been the first time my mind played tricks on me.
Just as I started to convince myself that I¡¯d imagined it all, something darted toward me with such speed that I barely had time to react. I jerked back, scrambling against the headboard as a scream tore from my throat.
It wasn¡¯t a dream. She stood by my bedside, her wings fluttering rapidly, her too-large eyes wide with concern. That same unsettling, too-perfect smile stretched across her face, frozen there as if she wasn¡¯t entirely sure how to change it.
"I¡¯m... sorry!" she said, her voice quiet but carrying that odd echo, almost too clear for this small room.
I stared at her, heart still racing. She looked at me with those mesmerizing eyes, alien and human at the same time. I opened my mouth to speak, but no words came out. What was I supposed to say? What could I say?
Windy, curled up near the foot of my bed, flicked his tongue out lazily. He gazed at Tianyi for a long moment before turning away with an air of indifference. Typical. He didn¡¯t seem to find her new form worth any more of his attention.
Tianyi, meanwhile, hovered there, her wings twitching awkwardly, her expression still that eerie, unwavering smile. My brain finally started to catch up with everything, and I forced myself to take a deep breath.
"It¡¯s... it¡¯s okay," I mumbled, my voice shaky. "I just... wasn¡¯t expecting... you." I stared down at the blanket, still processing.
She tilted her head, watching me intently. The smile faltered for a second, as if she were trying to adjust her expression, but it didn¡¯t quite land. It was clear she was struggling with this new form.
As I stared at her, something else dawned on me. She was still completely¡ª
"Oh!" I jumped out of bed, avoiding her eyes and feeling heat rush to my face. I had to cover her up. "Hold on, just... wait here."
I scrambled over to the corner of my room, rifling through my storage.
"Where was that robe? The one that one of the merchants had gifted me... Here it is!"
I yanked it out from beneath a pile of folded linens. The deep blue silk practically shimmered in the light as I hurried back toward Tianyi, keeping my gaze firmly averted.
"Uh, here," I said, offering her the robe as I gestured toward her form. She tilted her head again, but after a moment, she seemed to understand. With a soft flutter of her wings, she folded them back, shrinking them enough to let me drape the robe over her shoulders.
The wings shifted, folding so smoothly it was like they¡¯d always been a part of her, perfectly aligned. The robe fit her well, though her inhuman form made it look more regal than I¡¯d anticipated. She looked like Lady Xiao Yun; a daughter of a wealthy merchant, so long as I ignored the raised lines along her skin.
"Thank you," she said, her voice still holding that strange echo. Her smile was still too wide, too perfect, but there was an earnestness in her eyes.
I nodded, still not entirely sure what to say. Everything felt too surreal. Just a day ago, she was the small butterfly I¡¯d known for so long, flitting around the garden, bringing a sense of calm to my world. Now she was... this. And I still didn¡¯t know how to process it.
My gaze flickered toward her wings again. They shimmered even under the dull morning light, catching every beam like they were made from the sky itself. Her form, while humanoid, was clearly not human. The lines running across her skin, the smoothness where I expected human details¡ªit was all so... alien. Yet, somehow, undeniably Tianyi.
"How did this happen?"
"You... said I could transform," she began softly. "You told me about spirit beasts that could take on human forms. I wanted to be like them. To stand beside you, not just fly above or behind you."The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.
Her voice still carried that strange, clear echo, but what stunned me most wasn¡¯t her voice, it was how deeply my words had affected her. She had taken something I¡¯d said so casually and made it her goal. The weight of that realization sank into me like a stone.
"You... did all this because of me?" I said, almost dumbfounded. "Tianyi, I never meant¡ª" I trailed off, unsure how to even finish the thought. I wanted to tell her that she didn¡¯t need to change, that she was enough as she was. But now, looking at her, I realized that this transformation wasn¡¯t just about me. It was about her, too. Her own journey, her own growth.
She tilted her head again, watching me intently, her too-wide smile still plastered on her face, though it faltered slightly as if she wasn¡¯t sure if it was the right expression.
"I... I thought it would make you happy," she said, her voice softening. "I wanted to be able to protect you better."
I stared at her, the weight of her words hitting me like a blow. How long had she been silently working toward this, keeping to herself despite her newfound ability to speak? And here I was, dumbly staring at her like I didn¡¯t understand.
I sighed, rubbing my temples. "I¡¯m sorry, Tianyi. I didn¡¯t realize... I didn¡¯t know how much this meant to you."
I took a closer look at her, this time with more focus. Her irises shimmered in segments, catching the light in a way that made them seem like the facets of an insect¡¯s compound eyes. The raised lines along her arms and fingers weren¡¯t just surface markings, they were like separate segments, dividing her skin into intricate, interconnected sections. Even her hair... two strands falling down her face twitched slightly, in a way that normal hair never would.
Despite the warmth of the room, her hand was cool to the touch when I finally held it. Her skin, pale and smooth, was hard, almost rigid¡ªlike polished stone rather than flesh. It was as if she had grasped the essence of what it meant to be human but missed the finer details.
"Tianyi, you didn¡¯t do anything wrong," I said, my voice softening. She looked at me with that same wide, unsettling smile, though I could see the hesitation behind it. "I was just... worried. I didn¡¯t know where you were."
Her smile faltered, and for a moment, it seemed like she was struggling to control her new form, her wings fluttering slightly as she leaned in closer.
"I didn¡¯t mean to scare you," she whispered, her voice carrying an apologetic tone.
I shook my head quickly. "No, it¡¯s not your fault. I just... wasn¡¯t ready for this."
At my words, her expression brightened, though the too-perfect smile remained. Before I could react, she lunged forward, wrapping her arms around me in a surprisingly gentle hug. "You¡¯re very warm," she said, sounding almost pleased.
I hesitated for a second, my mind still reeling from everything that had happened. But then, slowly, I returned the hug, my arms wrapping around her unfamiliar frame. Despite everything, there was a strange sense of comfort in the embrace.
"Thank you, Kai," she said softly, her voice muffled against my shoulder.
I smiled weakly, exhaustion creeping over me as the events of the day finally caught up. "You¡¯re... welcome, Tianyi," I murmured, my voice barely a whisper as the last of my strength faded away. "I think I need to lie down."
Without another word, I collapsed back onto the bed, with her still holding me. My mind swam in a haze of fatigue, the day¡¯s events blending into a blur of confusion and awe. Within moments, sleep claimed me.
I woke up to the sensation of something watching me.
Slowly, I blinked, my eyes adjusting to the dim morning light filtering through the window. I turned my head to the side and nearly jumped when I saw Tianyi sitting there, her large, shimmering eyes locked on me, her expression unchanged.
"Good morning!" she chirped the moment she saw I was awake.
"Did you even sleep?"
She nodded cheerfully, her wings fluttering slightly beneath the robe. "I don¡¯t sleep like you do. I just... rest."
I narrowed my eyes, feeling a shiver crawl up my spine as I realized something. "You haven¡¯t blinked once."
She tilted her head, seemingly unbothered. "I don¡¯t need to."
I opened my mouth, then closed it again, deciding not to question it further. At that moment, Windy slithered up onto the bed, his tongue flickering out as he studied Tianyi with new interest. For the first time since her transformation, he moved closer, curling around her neck as she greeted him with a soft smile. The sight was strange but... oddly fitting.
While they interacted, my mind raced. Zhi Ruo¡¯s letter flashed in my thoughts: Don¡¯t stand out.
How was I supposed to keep Tianyi¡¯s new form hidden? If anyone saw her like this...
I sighed, my pulse quickening again. I had to figure out what to do.
"Tianyi," I began, "do you think you can change back into your butterfly form? You know... to keep things less... complicated?"
She looked thoughtful, her wings twitching slightly. "I¡¯m... not sure. I haven¡¯t tried."
Before I could ask further, a sudden knock on the door made my heart leap into my throat.
"Kai! You¡¯re late!" Lan-Yin¡¯s voice rang out. "Elder Ming¡¯s going to punish you if you don¡¯t hurry!"
My eyes widened in panic. "Hide!" I hissed, already scrambling out of bed.
She looked confused for a split second but then darted beneath the bed with surprising speed, her wings folding up tightly against her back. Just in time, too, as Lan-Yin and Wang Jun burst through the door a moment later, oblivious to the chaos they had narrowly missed.
The door creaked open, and Lan-Yin and Wang Jun stepped into the room, both grinning like foxes sniffing out trouble. I stood frozen for a moment, still catching my breath from the earlier panic, my clothes damp with sweat. My hair clung to my forehead, and I must have looked a mess. I opened my mouth to explain, but Lan-Yin¡¯s eyes gleamed with mischief as she leaned casually against the doorframe.
¡°Well, well,¡± she began, her tone lilting with amusement. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±
Wang Jun¡¯s grin widened as he crossed his arms. ¡°Seems like someone¡¯s been... dedicating themselves to their own, uh, private pursuits.¡±
I felt my face burn instantly, the embarrassment hitting like a slap. "No, no, it''s not¡ª" I stammered, but the words fumbled out of my mouth uselessly.
Lan-Yin raised a brow, clearly enjoying the moment. "No need to be so shy, Young Master Kai. Everyone¡¯s got to practice... refinement one way or another, right?" She chuckled lightly, nudging her betrothed in the ribs.
The two exchanged a knowing look, and I groaned inwardly.
¡°No!¡± I finally managed, my voice a bit too loud. ¡°I wasn¡¯t¡ªI mean¡ª!¡±
The words stuck in my throat, and I felt the sweat beading on my forehead again. My heart raced, not from the accusation, but because Tianyi was still hiding just a few feet away, underneath the bed. If they caught on to her presence...
I forced a grin, waving my hands in front of me in a desperate attempt to clear the misunderstanding. "I was just... doing some physical training last night! Conditioning, you know, working on endurance. Nothing improper."
Lan-Yin tapped her chin, pretending to be deep in thought. "Oh, conditioning, was it? That must be why you¡¯re soaked through like a steamed dumpling, hmm?"
Wang Jun snickered behind her. "Pretty intense training to leave you looking like that."
I felt the blood rushing to my face. This was not how I¡¯d imagined starting my morning. I tried to shift the conversation, anything to divert their attention.
¡°Look, I¡¯m running late, right?¡± I said, trying to sound calm as I wiped the sweat from my forehead. ¡°What¡¯s the punishment this time? Can¡¯t have Elder Ming thinking I¡¯ve been slacking off.¡±
¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure Elder Ming will forgive you if you tell him you were working on some... more personal cultivation techniques.¡±
Lan-Yin gave me a mock serious look, crossing her arms. ¡°Though you might want to clean up before heading out. No one wants to train next to someone who''s still in the throes of their, um, solo cultivation.¡±
I sighed deeply, giving up on explaining and hoping they¡¯d just drop it. ¡°Right. I¡¯ll... clean up. See you both out there.¡±
They finally took pity on me, turning to leave, though not without a few more snickers and winks thrown in my direction. As the door closed behind them, I let out a long, exasperated breath, slumping down onto the edge of the bed.
I had a long day ahead of me.
137. Beneath the Stone, the Fist
I staggered back, hands on my knees, gasping for breath. My whole body ached, muscles screaming in protest after the brutal session Elder Ming had just put me through. Punishment for being late, of course. I wiped the sweat from my brow, trying to ignore the burning in my legs. Every step felt like I was walking on hot coals. It hadn¡¯t helped that Lan-Yin and Wang Jun kept up a steady stream of snickers the entire time, making sure to remind me about my so-called "self-cultivation."
I¡¯d ignored them, or at least, I pretended to. It was hard enough staying focused with my muscles strained to their limits, let alone with everyone joking about what they thought I was doing last night. But I couldn¡¯t let it bother me¡ªnot now.
Because, despite everything, my thoughts kept drifting back to Tianyi.
The thought gnawed at me. She couldn¡¯t stay hidden forever, especially not in a village as close-knit as this one. But perhaps¡ maybe I wouldn¡¯t need to hide her completely. I mulled over the idea, straightening up as it took shape in my mind. If I kept her presence low-key, only telling those I trusted¡ªWang Jun, Lan-Yin, and a few others who frequented my shop¡ªthen maybe we could manage without raising too many questions. She didn¡¯t need to be seen by everyone, after all.
I had just opened my mouth to mention the idea to the others when a small voice cut through the small courtyard.
"Elder Ming!"
I turned just in time to see Xiao Bao, one of the village kids, sprinting across the courtyard toward us, his face flushed from the effort. His wide eyes flicked between us before settling on Elder Ming, who was calmly wiping down the training posts.
"There¡¯s someone asking for you. They said it¡¯s important!"
Elder Ming''s expression shifted, his brows furrowing as he exchanged a glance with me.
"Who is it, Xiao Bao?" He asked, his voice steady despite the sudden tension that seemed to fill the air.
"I don''t know!" Xiao Bao shook his head, still catching his breath. "They didn¡¯t say much, but¡ they look important. They look like cultivators!"
He set down the towel he¡¯d been using, his eyes sharpening slightly. "Alright. Let¡¯s see what this is about."
I shot a quick glance at Wang Jun and Lan-Yin, both of whom seemed to have dropped their teasing demeanor, watching Elder Ming carefully. I didn¡¯t know what this was about, but a knot of unease was already twisting in my gut. Something told me this wasn¡¯t just a casual visit.
"Should we come with you?" I asked, stepping forward.
Elder Ming looked at me for a moment before nodding slightly. "Yes. You three should come along."
We followed Elder Ming out of the training grounds, my muscles still protesting with every step, but the knot of unease in my stomach had me pushing through the discomfort. I couldn¡¯t shake the bad feeling that had settled over me since Xiao Bao¡¯s arrival. There was something about the urgency in his voice that stirred a sense of foreboding.
As we stepped out into the open courtyard, the sun was beginning to peak, casting long shadows over the village. I scanned the faces of the villagers. Some were gathered in small clusters, their eyes wide with curiosity or concern, others standing back cautiously as they watched a group of unfamiliar men near the edge of the square.
And then I saw them.
Six men stood in a semi-circle, clearly the source of the disturbance. Five of them were strikingly similar. Large, muscular builds with shaved heads, their presence imposing and hard to ignore. They loomed over the villagers, their expressions blank but watchful. Their bodies exuded a quiet strength, but it wasn¡¯t just their size that caught my attention. There was something oddly familiar about them.
I narrowed my eyes, studying their faces, trying to place where I¡¯d seen them before. The recognition hovered just out of reach.
At the front of the group, a sixth man stood, far shorter than the others, but no less intimidating. His receding hairline was tied into a tight bun at the back of his head, and despite the loose robes he wore, the outline of his broad, muscular figure was unmistakable. He was speaking animatedly with a group of villagers, his voice carrying a smooth, confident tone. Some of the villagers seemed drawn in by his words, but there was an air of caution around them, a reluctance to fully engage.
As we approached, the shorter man¡¯s gaze snapped toward Elder Ming. His face brightened immediately, and he gave a low bow, his voice oozing respect. "Village Head! Thank you for taking the time to meet with me.¡±
Elder Ming, always composed, nodded. "Who are you, and what brings you to Gentle Wind Village?"
The man straightened, still smiling. "My name is Wei Long; a first-class disciple of Narrow Stone Peak. We¡¯ve come to offer protection to your village during these uncertain times."
¡°Narrow Stone Peak...¡± Elder Ming echoed, his expression unreadable.
Wei Long gestured toward the five men behind him. "And these are my subordinates, the Five Fists. They¡¯ve made quite a name for themselves."
That name¡ªFive Fists of Narrow Stone Peak¡ªhit me like a hammer to the chest. Suddenly, everything clicked into place. Crescent Bay City. The fight. Duan Jian. These were the same five brutes that tried to cause a ruckus at Spirited Noodle until Feng Wu scared them off.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.
My hands clenched into fists at the memory.
"You," I muttered under my breath, my pulse quickening. They were trouble, I knew that much.
I narrowed my eyes, locking onto the familiar faces of the Five Fists of Narrow Stone Peak. These were the same men I had encountered in Crescent Bay City, the ones who had tried to throw their weight around at Spirited Noodle. That day, they had been loud, arrogant, and looking for trouble, but they¡¯d backed off when things didn¡¯t go their way.
Before I could voice my thoughts, one of the men with a shaved head suddenly stiffened, his eyes widening in recognition. He pointed a thick finger directly at me.
"You! It¡¯s him!" he said, his voice cutting through the air like a blade.
The other members of the Five Fists glanced at me, their expressions a mix of surprise and confusion, but I could see it. At least one of them had recognized me too.
Elder Ming¡¯s gaze slid toward me, a question in his eyes. ¡°Kai,¡± he said, his tone calm but firm. ¡°How do you know these men?¡±
I hesitated for a moment, then exhaled sharply. ¡°We crossed paths in Crescent Bay City. They were causing trouble at a noodle shop, trying to intimidate the waiter. I¡ may have gotten involved, and things escalated.¡± I glanced at the Five Fists, their expressions hardening as I continued. ¡°Later, they cornered me in an alley while drunk. Let¡¯s just say it didn¡¯t end well for them.¡±
Wei Long¡¯s pleasant demeanor shifted almost imperceptibly. His smile tightened, and his eyes darkened. I braced myself, fully expecting him to lash out or reveal his true nature, especially after hearing what had happened between me and his subordinates.
His fist trembled slightly, and I could feel the tension building in the air.
But instead of an outburst, The first-class disciple turned sharply on his heel and backhanded the nearest of his subordinates, sending him staggering back with a shocked grunt.
"Idiots!" Wei Long¡¯s voice was low and venomous. Without missing a beat, he proceeded to slap each one of them upside the head, his movements swift and precise. ¡°How dare you disgrace our name with such dishonorable behavior! Attacking someone in a drunken stupor? Have you no shame?¡±
The Five Fists flinched under his blows but remained silent, their heads bowed as they endured the berating. To my surprise, they didn¡¯t argue or retaliate. They just stood there, taking it.
This wasn¡¯t the reaction I had anticipated at all.
Once Wei Long had finished his reprimand, he pointed toward me. ¡°Line up in front of him. Now.¡±
Without hesitation, the Five Fists scrambled to obey, forming a line directly in front of me. One by one, they bowed their heads in unison.
¡°We¡¯re sorry,¡± they muttered, their voices subdued.
Wei Long turned back to me, offering a slight bow of his own. "I hope this is enough to put the matter behind us. They are still maturing, and it is clear they have much to learn. I ask that this incident not affect our current discussion."
The weight of the moment pressed down on me. Everyone¡¯s eyes were on me now; the villagers, Elder Ming, Lan-Yin, Wang Jun. It felt like the entire village was waiting for my response, and the tension in the air was palpable. I could feel their gazes burning into me, expecting me to make a decision.
I swallowed, my mouth dry. There was no reason to escalate this further, especially not in front of Elder Ming and the rest of the village. I forced myself to nod. "I... I won¡¯t hold it against them. Let¡¯s put it behind us."
Wei Long smiled, the tension in his posture easing ever so slightly. He gave another respectful bow before turning his attention back to Elder Ming.
"Now that this unpleasant business is behind us, Village Head," he said smoothly, "we have come here with a genuine offer of protection for your village. There has been a sharp rise in bandit activity in the region, and recent sightings of spirit beasts have only added to the danger. Narrow Stone Peak has already taken steps to safeguard nearby villages, and we would like to extend that same protection to Gentle Wind Village."
Protection. The word hung in the air, as smooth as Wei Long''s voice, but it grated against me like sandpaper. The Five Fists certainly hadn¡¯t been offering protection back then, just throwing their weight around, preying on the weak. And here they were again, wearing the same false smiles, but with different words.
I glanced at the Five Fists. They stood there, silent and disciplined now, but I knew better than to trust appearances. I¡¯d seen what they were like when no one was watching.
And Narrow Stone Peak? They reminded me too much of the Iron Claw Sect¡ªsect disciples showing up with grand offers of security, but always with a price. I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this ¡°protection¡± was just another way to control the village. If we accepted, we¡¯d owe them. No matter how friendly Wei Long seemed, I could feel the strings being pulled behind the scenes.
Elder Ming listened carefully, his expression thoughtful but unreadable. "Why offer protection now?"
Wei Long inclined his head slightly, his tone smooth and diplomatic. "We have reason to believe the bandit activity will spread soon, and spirit beasts are drawn to areas of concentrated qi, such as this village. Gentle Wind may be small, but it is not insignificant. Our sect wishes to maintain stability in the region, and it would be in everyone¡¯s best interest to prevent trouble before it arrives at your doorstep."
I watched Elder Ming closely, trying to gauge his reaction. He was cautious, as he should be, but I could tell he was considering Wei Long¡¯s words carefully.
"And what would this protection cost us?" Elder Ming asked.
Wei Long¡¯s smile remained steady, but there was a gleam in his eye, a subtle shift that spoke volumes about his calculated nature. "The cost would be fair, of course," he said smoothly. "We ask for nothing unreasonable, just an exchange of services. Perhaps your village¡¯s skilled craftsmen or herbalists could lend their aid when needed. A mutually beneficial arrangement, nothing more."
His words were carefully chosen, neither overbearing nor too humble. It was a clever play, one that implied an offer of protection while hinting at future obligations without being explicit about what those obligations might entail.
Elder Ming crossed his arms, his face still unreadable as he considered the proposal. Around us, the gathered villagers murmured amongst themselves, some nodding in agreement, others casting uncertain glances.
Wei Long seemed to notice the mixed reactions. His smile widened slightly, as though anticipating this. "If it would put the good people of Gentle Wind Village at ease," he continued, "I could arrange a demonstration of our capabilities. A simple show of strength, to prove that your village would be in capable hands."
I could see the mixed reactions in the villagers around me. Some looked intrigued, others unsure, but none of them knew what I knew. I¡¯d seen what sects like this were capable of when they thought no one was looking. They weren''t here out of goodwill¡ªthey were here to expand their influence, and our village was just another stepping stone, even if they had a more diplomatic approach than the Iron Claw.
Elder Ming¡¯s eyes narrowed just slightly, his gaze fixed on Wei Long. But after the odd happenings within the forest, the political unrest... a little protection didn''t sound too bad.
My gaze shifted to the Five Fists. The last time I¡¯d run into them, they¡¯d cornered me in an alley, drunk and full of bravado, thinking they had the upper hand. But when Xu Ziqing showed up, they scattered like frightened rats, unwilling to stand their ground. I remembered the way they¡¯d tried to gang up on me, only to flee when faced with real opposition. These weren¡¯t men willing to put their necks on the line for anyone, least of all this village. No matter what their leader promised, I knew they¡¯d cut and run the moment things turned dangerous, even if the village had paid for their so-called protection.
Still, something in me wanted to test them. To see how far I¡¯d come since our last encounter. I¡¯d trained hard under Elder Ming, pushed myself to the limit, and yet, a part of me still wondered how I¡¯d fare against them now. I didn¡¯t have Windy or Tianyi at my side this time, but maybe that was the point. It was time to see what I could do on my own.
I could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on everyone. And in that silence, a spark of an idea ignited in my mind.
Before anyone else could speak, I stepped forward, the words leaving my mouth before I had fully thought them through.
"If I may..." My voice sounded more confident than I felt, and all eyes turned to me. I kept my gaze steady, focusing on Wei Long. "Perhaps I could indulge in this demonstration. A sparring match, to see your strength firsthand."
The tension in the air shifted immediately. A few gasps and murmurs rippled through the crowd, and I could feel Elder Ming¡¯s gaze on me, heavy with unspoken questions. I knew the dangers of challenging a sect. Especially one as ambitious as Narrow Stone Peak. But if we didn¡¯t stand up now, this village would end up like so many others, tied to the whims of a sect that didn¡¯t truly care.
I wasn¡¯t about to let that happen.
Wei Long¡¯s smile didn¡¯t falter, but his eyes flickered with something¡ªamusement, perhaps. He nodded slowly, his voice low and measured. "A spar, you say? Well, I wouldn¡¯t want to discourage your enthusiasm. But are you sure this is what you want?"
I held his gaze, my heart pounding in my chest, but I couldn¡¯t back down now. "I¡¯m sure. I''ve had some experience with martial arts of my own."
Elder Ming¡¯s brow furrowed as I stepped forward. I could sense his unease, his gaze heavy. Perhaps he knew, just as I did, how quickly things could escalate from a simple sparring match to something much worse.
He placed a hand on my shoulder, his voice cutting through the moment. "Kai... you don¡¯t have to do this. You haven''t recovered from the training."
I met his eyes, appreciating the concern, but I gave a small shake of my head. "I know. But I think it¡¯s the best way to see what we¡¯re dealing with. I''m not doing this for a victory."
Wei Long chuckled softly. "Very well," he said, his voice carrying a weight of finality. "Let¡¯s give the village something to watch."
138. More Than a Win
The Five Fists of Narrow Stone Peak stood in a line, each one towering and built like a stone wall, their expressions unreadable. My eyes scanned the group, and Wei Long¡¯s sharp voice cut through the air like a blade.
"Gu Bei," he called, stepping forward with an air of authority. The name echoed in my mind. Gu Bei stepped out of line, his movements deliberate yet restrained. His gaze met mine, and I could see the wariness there. He wasn¡¯t one of the men who had attacked me in Crescent Bay City. No, he¡¯d been passed out drunk, missing the brawl entirely.
I tempered my anger, keeping my breathing steady. This wasn¡¯t about personal grudges. Not today. I had to stay calm.
The man before me was a giant, easily a head taller than me, and built like an ox. His shaved head gleamed in the afternoon light, and as I studied him more closely, I noticed a burn mark trailing from his neck to his shoulder, a discolored patch of skin that stood out against his otherwise rough-hewn exterior.
I gestured toward the line of the Five Fists behind him. "You all look... strikingly similar. Are you related?" The question slipped out before I could stop it, half curiosity, half an attempt to gauge the dynamic between them.
Gu Bei shook his head, his voice gruff but not unfriendly. "No. Not brothers, not by blood. Just... brothers in training."
I nodded slowly, taking in the way they stood together. Their appearance was almost uncanny. Same shaved heads, same muscular frames, but now that I looked closer, I could see the subtle differences. Gu Bei with his burn scar, another missing a tooth, one with a nose that looked like it had been kicked in by a horse, and the last bearing a scar that ran from his ear down his jawline. Despite their similarities, each of them bore the marks of their past struggles, small details that set them apart from each other.
I don''t recall them having those when I first encountered them. Perhaps they''ve been through much since our last meeting.
Wei Long¡¯s voice broke through my observations. "Since this is a demonstration, you will be given the first three moves, Kai." His tone was smooth, diplomatic, but there was an edge to it. "If it becomes too heated, I will step in. This is a demonstration first and foremost. Safety is paramount."
I nodded, my mind already working through possible openings. Gu Bei¡¯s presence loomed over me like a mountain, but I couldn¡¯t let his size intimidate me. I had trained too hard for that.
The ground beneath my feet felt solid, familiar. My fists clenched at my sides, and I could feel the quiet hum of qi stirring within me, waiting to be called upon.
I shifted into my stance, keeping my posture loose, my palms open and facing up. It was a position of readiness, a stance that would let me adapt, stay fluid.
To my surprise, I felt calm. Not cocky, just... reassured.
Gu Bei stood across from me, his arms hanging loose at his sides, but I could sense the coiled strength in him. But size wasn¡¯t everything.
"Begin!"
I moved first, closing the distance between us in three quick strides. My first strike shot toward his torso, a feint, testing his defense. Gu Bei¡¯s arm came up to block, solid as a brick wall. No surprise there.
But the next two hits were the real ones.
I twisted my hips, throwing a sharp hook to his ribs. My fist connected with a satisfying thud, and I followed it immediately with a palm strike to his chest, sinking the blow into his sternum. Gu Bei staggered back, his eyes widening, clearly not expecting the speed or precision of my attack.
And in that moment, I realized how far I¡¯d come.
He was strong, there was no denying that. But he was slow. His size and power were impressive, but they didn¡¯t intimidate me anymore. Not after everything I¡¯d been through.
I saw it clearly now¡ªsomething that had eluded me when fighting opponents who either overwhelmed me with superior skill or were too familiar. It wasn¡¯t about how many techniques I had or how strong my punches were.
It was about knowing when to use them.
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A surge of clarity washes over you.
Your Mind has advanced to Qi Initiation Realm - Rank 2
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Gu Bei¡¯s next strike came, a heavy, wide punch aimed straight at my head. It was powerful but predictable. I sidestepped, my body moving with a fluid grace I had honed through endless training, and I flowed into the first principle of the Bamboo Reprisal Counter, deflecting his blow with my forearm, redirecting his energy away from me.
He grunted in frustration as he overextended, his fist passing harmlessly by. He followed up with a swing of his other arm, but I stepped into his guard, using Rooted Banyan Stance to brace myself as I blocked the strike with ease.Stolen story; please report.
He was getting flustered, I could feel it. His attacks were powerful but clumsy, each one leaving an opening. I wasn¡¯t letting him adjust. The harder he hit, the softer I became, dispersing his force with calm precision. When he tried to slow down and tighten his movements, I switched to the Rooted Banyan Stance, throwing him off balance again.
Another wild swing came, and this time, I ducked beneath it, slipping low and driving my fist upward in a sharp uppercut. I tapped him on the chin, barely a touch, pulling the punch at the last second. It was enough to let him know that if I hadn¡¯t held back, he¡¯d be flat on his back.
His face flushed with embarrassment. I could see it in his eyes. He felt humiliated. With a growl, he rushed forward, his massive arms spreading wide as he tried to crush me in a bear hug, intent on ending the fight with brute force.
But brute force was predictable.
I slipped under his arms, moving low and fast, feeling the flow of his momentum as he overreached. In the same motion, I brought my fist into his solar plexus, driving it deep with a solid punch infused with qi. My stance was rooted, my lower body stable from all the conditioning I¡¯d endured. It didn¡¯t matter that my frame was smaller¡ªthis blow was well-placed, perfectly timed.
Gu Bei gasped, his breath knocked out of him as he stumbled backward, clutching his chest.
I didn¡¯t press the attack. The fight was over.
As I stood there, I realized for the first time I could truly say it.
I had become strong.
Not because of tricks or spirit beasts, but through pure martial skill.
Gu Bei, still clutching his chest, looked up at me with disbelief.
I met his gaze, offering him a slight nod. "Good match."
The tension broke, the crowd exhaling in a mixture of awe and relief, and for a moment, I allowed myself the smallest of smiles. It wasn¡¯t like before¡ªwhen my victories had been reckless or desperate. This was different. I wasn¡¯t the same person who had faced Ping Hai, terrified of being utterly crushed, or the one who¡¯d felt overwhelmed at every turn in the alchemy tournament. Today, I had controlled the fight. I¡¯d dictated the pace.
I had grown.
I turned to face the first-class disciple, keeping my stance relaxed but my mind sharp.
¡°Thank you for the opportunity to spar,¡± I began, my tone measured. I didn¡¯t want to come off as disrespectful, but I also needed to make it clear that Gentle Wind Village wasn¡¯t weak. ¡°Your disciple fought well, and it¡¯s clear that Narrow Stone Peak has a tradition of strong fighters. But I think this match has shown that our village has its own strength too.¡±
His expression didn¡¯t shift, but I could see a flicker in his eyes, like he was sizing me up. I kept my voice steady, choosing my words carefully.
¡°We¡¯ve faced our share of hardships here,¡± I continued, glancing toward the villagers who were watching closely. Among them, Lan-Yin and Wang Jun, who stared at mee with proud gazes. ¡°We may be small, but we¡¯re resilient. We¡¯ve had to be.¡±
I met Wei Long¡¯s gaze directly, refusing to back down, but without being confrontational. I wanted him to understand where I stood, without turning this into a challenge.
¡°I appreciate what your sect has done for other villages, and I understand your offer of protection,¡± I said, softening my tone slightly, ¡°but Gentle Wind isn¡¯t defenseless. We¡¯ve always found ways to look out for our own.¡±
Wei Long¡¯s smile didn¡¯t waver, but there was a slight tightening at the edges of his lips, as though he were trying to gauge how much of what I said was for the village¡¯s benefit, and how much was directed at him.
¡°You speak well. Kai, correct?¡± he replied smoothly, his voice carrying a hint of admiration. ¡°Your village is fortunate to have someone as capable as you. And it¡¯s clear you¡¯ve trained hard to reach this point.¡±
His eyes gleamed, and I could sense the shift in his tone. ¡°But strength, as you know, can always be refined further. Narrow Stone Peak has a wealth of resources and knowledge, especially for those who are ready to take the next step in their cultivation journey. Have you ever thought of joining a sect? With your potential, the training we could offer would be... invaluable.¡±
His offer hung in the air like a well-set trap, but I kept my expression neutral, giving myself a moment to respond.
¡°I appreciate the offer,¡± I said slowly, making sure my words were deliberate. ¡°But my place is here, with my village. The people I care about, the people I¡¯ve grown up with, they¡¯re here. And for now... that¡¯s where I belong.¡±
¡°Your loyalty is commendable. But the doors of Narrow Stone Peak are always open, should you ever decide to walk a different path.¡±
With that, he stepped back, signaling for his disciples to fall into line.
¡°We¡¯ll stay in the area for a few more days,¡± he announced, his tone as diplomatic as ever. ¡°Should anyone reconsider or wish to discuss the matter further, you¡¯ll know where to find us. Your safety and prosperity, after all, of the utmost importance to us.¡±
With that, he turned on his heel, his disciples following closely behind, leaving the village square in a disciplined formation. As Wei Long turned, his gaze lingered on me for just a moment longer, his expression unreadable. A chill ran down my spine, but I forced myself to stand tall.
The villagers slowly began to disperse, murmuring amongst themselves, but I caught Lan-Yin and Wang Jun moving toward me, admiration plain on their faces. I could feel the pressure in my chest ease just a little, though not entirely.
But the more I let that thought settle, the more I realized just how far I¡¯d come in such a short time. Gu Bei wasn¡¯t nearly as fast or skilled as Ping Hai, but he was still a cultivator. And here I was, standing victorious. Me¡ªa village boy, barely a year into my training. Yet, despite all that, I had won.
The realization swelled inside me, and with it came a surge of pride, a warmth that spread through my chest. All my training, all the hours spent bruising my hands and legs, had paid off. It hadn¡¯t been for nothing.
A few clapped me on the back, offering their congratulations, but the warmth of their praise didn¡¯t sit as comfortably as I expected. Wasn¡¯t this what I wanted? Their respect, their approval? I had finally earned it, but now it felt... fleeting.
I caught sight of Elder Ming standing at the edge of the square. I made my way over to him, feeling a mixture of pride and exhaustion settle over me.
"You¡¯ve come far, Kai," he said, his voice quiet yet firm.
"Today proved it. All the training, all the effort, it wasn¡¯t for nothing. It¡¯s proof that it mattered."
Elder Ming''s brow furrowed slightly, a soft sigh escaping his lips as he turned to face me fully. "Kai," he said quietly, his gaze searching mine, "you don¡¯t need proof that your efforts bore fruit. That¡¯s not what truly matters."
I blinked, not fully understanding his meaning. "But... isn¡¯t that the point of all this? To get stronger, to show that the training worked?"
He shook his head, his expression still calm but laced with something deeper, something that cut through the surface of my words. "It¡¯s not about showing anything to anyone, Kai. Strength, real strength, is found in your effort, not in the results. Whether you became a heaven-defying genius or simply a man with a strong heart... I would be equally pleased."
"But if... if I failed, if I didn¡¯t live up to expectations¡ª"
"Expectations are fleeting," he interrupted gently. "What matters is how you walk your path, not where it leads. If you put your heart into what you do, whether you rise to the heavens or never make it beyond these village walls, that is enough. I would be just as proud of you if you never became a great cultivator, so long as you gave everything you had."
His words sank deep into me, settling like stones in a still pond. I¡¯d been so focused on proving myself, on showing everyone that my training wasn¡¯t wasted, that I hadn¡¯t thought about it like that. I¡¯d conditioned myself to believe that only success mattered, that victory was the only proof of my worth. That¡¯s why every failure felt so sharp, so devastating.
I¡¯d built my entire perception of myself around the outcome. Around winning, around proving myself.
I met his gaze, my mind replaying my losses... I realized now why each defeat had stung so much. I hadn¡¯t accepted them as part of the journey. I¡¯d seen them as failures, as proof that I wasn¡¯t enough.
"Detach from the outcome, Kai. Be pleased that you¡¯re growing, that you¡¯re walking your path earnestly. That¡¯s the real reward."
"You''re right," I said softly, the words carrying more weight than I expected. I looked at him with new clarity. "I¡¯ve spent so long tying my success to whether I win or lose... that I forgot why I started in the first place."
That was what Elder Ming did. He tempered me, whether it was pulling me back when I was riding high on a wave of success or lifting me up when I sank into shame after a failure.
As the villagers slowly dispersed, murmuring about the spar and glancing my way with admiration, I stayed rooted in place, Elder Ming¡¯s words lingering like a steady drumbeat in my mind.
I didn¡¯t need to prove myself to anyone. Not even to him. My journey wasn¡¯t measured by how others saw me, but by the quiet satisfaction of knowing I was giving it everything I had.
And for the first time, that was enough.
139. Dripping Water Wears Through Stone
I walked along the quiet path back home, Elder Ming¡¯s words still echoing in my mind. The village was beginning to settle down as the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the ground. The warmth of the earlier spar had faded, and now I found myself in a strange state of calm, more thoughtful than triumphant. I¡¯d won the fight, but the lesson felt deeper than the victory.
As I neared the house, I saw someone moving near the greenhouse. It was Li Wei, working steadily by himself, carefully installing one of the new glass panes. His hands moved with an almost unnatural precision, the glass sliding into place without so much as a scratch. For a moment, I stood there and watched him.
"Where¡¯s your father?" I called out, stepping closer. "I thought you two were working together on this."
Li Wei glanced over his shoulder, nodding slightly before turning back to work. "He¡¯s at the shop. Doesn¡¯t know much about working with glass, so I¡¯m handling this part. Figured it was better this way."
I watched as he continued with the next pane. His hands were steady, and there was a quiet confidence in the way he handled the fragile material. I couldn¡¯t help but notice how motivated he looked, more focused than I¡¯d seen him before. There was no hesitation in his movements, no second-guessing.
"Have you worked with it before?" I asked, folding my arms and leaning against the wooden frame of the greenhouse.
Li Wei shook his head, never pausing in his work. "Nope. First time. But I¡¯ve learned enough about it from studying. Plus, with the Heavenly Interface, it¡¯s helping me get familiar pretty fast."
The Heavenly Interface. Of course. That system had a way of speeding up progress in ways that still surprised me sometimes. But watching him now, it wasn¡¯t just the Interface at work. There was something in the way he handled the glass¡ªcareful but not cautious, like he knew exactly where to apply force and when to let it be.
"Looks like you¡¯re doing pretty well," I said, genuinely impressed.
Li Wei let out a chuckle, stepping back from the pane he¡¯d just finished installing. "Thanks. It¡¯s coming along, but it¡¯s not without its hiccups." He nodded toward a shattered pane resting against the wall, shards of glass glinting in the fading light. "That one broke earlier. But it was expected, so I ordered extra just in case."
I raised an eyebrow at that, my lips twitching into a small smile. "So you planned for it to break?"
"Well, yeah. Glass is fragile. It¡¯s bound to happen when you¡¯re still learning how to handle it. Better to plan for failure than to pretend it won¡¯t happen at all."
I couldn¡¯t help but shake my head, inwardly bemoaning how audacious he was. Ordering extra glass knowing he¡¯d break some? And on my tab? But I supposed it made sense. The boy was clever, no denying that.
"You¡¯ve got some nerve," I muttered, half-joking, half-impressed. "But I guess it¡¯s smart."
Li Wei shrugged, clearly unbothered. "Failure¡¯s part of the process, right? As long as you learn from it, it¡¯s not really a failure."
I watched him for a moment, admiring how easily he shrugged off the broken glass as just another step in the learning process. There was something refreshing about it, how he didn¡¯t seem weighed down by mistakes the way I often was. It wasn¡¯t just the glasswork. It was his whole approach. Failure wasn¡¯t an obstacle for him, it was a tool. He used it, learned from it, and kept moving forward.
"You''re right," I said, nodding thoughtfully. "You¡¯re doing good work, Li Wei. Really."
"Thanks," he replied, his tone casual, as though my compliment hadn¡¯t surprised him in the slightest.
It made me think about how I reacted to failure. For all the pride I felt in my victories, I realized how much more sharply I felt my losses. How I conditioned myself to expect success, and when it didn¡¯t come, it grated at me far more than it should. But watching him, I saw another way. He expected setbacks, even planned for them, but they didn¡¯t slow him down. If anything, they spurred him on.
And maybe that¡¯s what I needed to do too.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
Just as I was about to speak again, I heard Tianyi¡¯s voice call out from inside the house. ¡°Kai, are you back?¡±
Li Wei glanced toward the sound, and before I could warn him, She stepped out from the doorway. She moved with that strange grace, her wings flickering faintly in the dimming light. Li Wei¡¯s eyes went wide, and I saw the glass pane he was holding slip from his hands. Instinct kicked in, and I darted forward, catching it just before it hit the ground.
¡°Careful!¡± I snapped, setting the glass aside safely.
Li Wei stood frozen, his mouth hanging open. ¡°W-Who is that?¡± he stammered, pointing at Tianyi, who tilted her head in confusion.
¡°She¡¯s... uh,¡± I hesitated, unsure of how to explain this without making things worse. ¡°Alright, let me explain from the beginning.¡±
¡°So she really managed to turn into a human?¡± His voice was laced with awe as his eyes flickered between her wings and her human-like form. ¡°She¡¯s... she¡¯s... pretty.¡± he said, his voice barely above a whisper, a slight blush creeping into his cheeks.
I cleared my throat, stepping between them. ¡°She¡¯s my companion,¡± I said firmly, my tone sharpening. ¡°She might look different now, but she¡¯s still a butterfly at heart. Don¡¯t get any ideas.¡±
Li Wei¡¯s eyes widened as he hastily shook his head. ¡°No, no! I wasn¡¯t¡ªI didn¡¯t mean¡ª¡± He trailed off, clearly embarrassed, but his eyes kept darting back to Tianyi, unable to fully look away.
Tianyi, for her part, seemed entirely oblivious to the tension. She looked at the young boy curiously, as if trying to figure out what had him so flustered. "Why does he keep staring?" she asked, her voice full of genuine confusion.
I sighed. ¡°He... uh, probably just wants to be friends. Please put the robe on, you''ll get cold!¡±
Li Wei gave a nervous laugh, scratching the back of his neck. ¡°Yeah... friends.¡±
I shot him a stern look, and he quickly looked away, muttering something under his breath about getting back to work. After a moment, I let the tension fade and decided it was time to shift the conversation, quickly shooing Tianyi back in, cautiously looking around to check if the cultivators from Narrow Stone Peak were nearby. I couldn¡¯t let them see her, after all.
¡°So, you missed a bit of excitement today,¡± I began, stepping back toward the house and motioning for Li Wei to follow. ¡°Narrow Stone Peak¡¯s disciples are staying in the village.¡±
Li Wei¡¯s brow furrowed, his attention snapping back to me. ¡°Cultivators? They''re here?¡±
I nodded, watching as his expression shifted from surprise to cautious interest. ¡°Yeah. They offered protection for the village, but I don¡¯t know... something feels off about the whole thing. They¡¯re too eager, too smooth. Wei Long, their leader, he¡¯s... I don¡¯t trust him. Please, keep Tianyi a secret for now. I don''t want them to find about her.¡±
He considered my words, his face thoughtful. ¡°Of course. I''ll keep quiet. It¡¯s good to be cautious, but... they could be genuine, right? Maybe they really do want to help. Then again, I can see why you¡¯d be wary.¡±
¡°I think it¡¯s just too soon to say for sure,¡± I said. ¡°But I don¡¯t want to rely on them without knowing their true intentions.¡±
Li Wei nodded slowly, then paused, his expression brightening as an idea struck him. ¡°Hey, why don¡¯t you reach out to the Verdant Lotus Sect? You¡¯ve got connections there, right? If they send word, maybe even a few cultivators to support the village."
I hesitated, the idea immediately sparking a wave of embarrassment. Asking for help from Verdant Lotus... it felt like admitting I couldn¡¯t handle things on my own. That''s why I trained so hard, after all.
But at the same time, Li Wei had a point. It would be a smart move, and I needed to be practical.
¡°You might be right,¡± I admitted, a little reluctantly. ¡°I¡¯ll write to them tonight. If nothing else, they could give us some advice.¡±
Li Wei gave me a small smile. ¡°Better safe than sorry.¡±
As he returned to working on the greenhouse, I lingered for a moment, watching him handle the glass with careful precision. The evening breeze rustled through the trees, and the sound of his tools tapping against the frame echoed softly. Everything seemed so calm, but I couldn¡¯t shake the tension that had been steadily building in my chest.
I had been so focused on my progress, on pushing myself harder, faster, that I hadn¡¯t taken the time to stop and really think about what I was chasing. Success? Strength? Respect? It all felt important, yet now, standing here in the fading light, I wasn¡¯t so sure anymore.
The truth was, I had conditioned myself to only accept one outcome: victory. Anything less felt like failure, and that ate at me, lingered far longer than it should. Watching Li Wei shrug off his mistakes, I realized how different we were. He embraced failure, saw it as part of the process. Me? I avoided it like the plague, and when it happened, I let it consume me.
It¡¯s not the outcome that matters. it¡¯s the effort.
I exhaled slowly, letting the thought sink in. Maybe Elder Ming was right¡ªmaybe it wasn¡¯t about proving myself, about showing the world what I could do. Maybe it was about something deeper.
But I wasn¡¯t there yet. Not completely.
I turned away from the greenhouse and began walking back to the shop, the quiet settling in around me like a thick fog. I needed to push forward, to keep going. The people of this village depended on me. And as much as I hated to admit it, asking for help, writing to the Verdant Lotus Sect, was probably the smartest thing I could do right now.
I guided Tianyi back into the shop, glancing over my shoulder to make sure no one was around. Once inside, the house felt oddly quiet. The earlier rush of adrenaline from the sparring match and the conversation with Li Wei began to fade, leaving me with the weight of my growing concerns.
Her wings fluttered faintly, brushing the doorway as she stepped inside.
"I¡¯m sorry, Kai," she said quietly. "I didn¡¯t mean to reveal myself like that."
I shook my head, sighing softly. "It¡¯s alright. Just... for now, try not to leave the house unless you absolutely have to. There are people here, bad people, who would hurt you if they found out what you really are."
She nodded, her wings folding neatly behind her. "I¡¯ll stay inside, but what are you going to do, Kai? About them?"
I let out a slow breath, the weight of it all pressing down on me. "I have to speed up my progress. What I¡¯ve achieved so far... it¡¯s not enough. If these Narrow Stone Peak cultivators are staying longer than expected, I need to be ready for whatever comes next."
With that, I moved toward the back of the shop, pulling open the wooden door that led to my alchemical workstation. The scent of herbs and fresh soil filled the air, a sharp contrast to the tension lingering in the village. On the table before me were the hybrid plants I¡¯d been cultivating. Their vibrant leaves shimmered faintly.
I don¡¯t know how long we have before things go sideways, but I can¡¯t afford to wait and find out. If I¡¯m not ready when they make their move, the village won¡¯t stand a chance.
Tianyi followed me in, watching curiously as I set up my tools.
I nodded. "They¡¯re ready. These hybrid plants will be the foundation for my next batch of pills. If I can refine them properly, they¡¯ll enhance my qi reserves even further." I glanced at her, offering a small, determined smile. "It¡¯s time to take the next step."
The exhaustion from the day¡¯s events still tugged at me, but there was a fire burning inside me now. I pulled my hair into a messy bun, securing it out of my face as I prepared for a long night of work. I couldn¡¯t afford to be complacent. Not anymore.
140. Sending Charcoal in the Snow
"Here."
Lan-Yin and Wang Jun looked cautiously at the two pills I presented to them, both of them eyeing the small, round objects like they might suddenly explode.
"What are these?" Wang Jun asked, a hint of wariness creeping into his voice. His breath hung in the frosty air, the chill of the winter morning seeping into the training ground around us. The sky was a pale gray, and the snow, packed under our feet, crunched with every shift of weight.
I stretched, rolling my shoulders casually as I tossed them each a pill. "Pills for you, obviously. Don¡¯t ask too many questions, just be grateful and kowtow before me in thanks for my superior alchemical prowess."
Lan-Yin raised an eyebrow, smirking at my dramatic tone. "Oh? You want us to start worshipping you now?"
"Absolutely," I said, grinning as I dusted off my robes. "But seriously, I made these for you both. Took your elemental affinities into account, so they should work well for your cultivation."
Wang Jun and Lan-Yin exchanged a glance, their skepticism palpable.
Lan-Yin gave the pill in her hand an experimental sniff. "And just how do you know our elemental affinities, oh wise and powerful alchemist?"
I crossed my arms, adopting my best haughty expression. "It''s an educated guess, of course. But if you check your Interface, it should say. I made Wang Jun''s pill with Metal and Fire in mind."
Wang Jun blinked, looking down at the pill in his hand before raising an eyebrow. "Metal? Fire? What, just because I spend my days hammering metal, that¡¯s my personality now?"
"Pretty much," I shot back with a grin.
"And me?" Lan-Yin interjected, holding up her pill. "Let me guess¡ªWater?"
I raised my brow. "Am I wrong?"
They looked at each other, their faces carefully kept blank. It seemed I was right.
"Well, you shouldn''t base your guesses on careless stereotypes." She muttered.
"Well," I admitted, rubbing the back of my neck, "it¡¯s not a perfect science. But your affinity is usually determined from the beginning and dictates much of your personality and future career. And I can¡¯t be entirely sure, but based on everything I know about you both, it seemed like the best guess. Worst-case scenario, if I¡¯m wrong, they just won¡¯t be as effective. But you won¡¯t die, if that¡¯s what you¡¯re asking."
Wang Jun gave me a flat look. "I was about to ask exactly that."
I rolled my eyes. "Relax. It¡¯s not poison. If your elemental affinity doesn¡¯t match the pill perfectly, it¡¯ll just have a weaker effect. No big deal. I¡¯m not here to kill off my only friends."
Lan-Yin twirled the pill between her fingers, her expression thoughtful. "So, if I take this, I¡¯ll get stronger, right?"
"That''s the hope." I leaned back against a nearby post, my breath fogging the air in front of me. "Think of it as a boost to help you push through the next level of cultivation."
They both stared at the pills in their hands for a moment, the early winter sun barely peeking through the clouds as a gentle wind swept through the courtyard. The cold bite of the air was starting to creep into my bones, but I didn¡¯t show it. I wanted them to take the pills, to trust in what I¡¯d made.
"Well," Wang Jun finally said, flipping the pill up and catching it in his palm, "here goes nothing." He popped the pill into his mouth and swallowed without hesitation, before lurching over and making a disgusted face. "Ugh! It tastes like blood! What''d you put in this?"
"I didn''t say it''d taste good!"
Lan-Yin, a little more tentative, followed suit, though she made a point of shooting me a mock suspicious glance before swallowing hers. "You¡¯d better be right about this, Kai."
I waved them off, a smirk tugging at the corners of my lips. "Just sit down and start circulating your qi. You¡¯ll feel the effects soon enough."
They both grumbled a bit, but did as I instructed, crossing their legs on the snow-covered ground, their breaths still visible in the chilly air. Wang Jun closed his eyes first, settling into his cultivation stance, and Lan-Yin followed soon after, her expression softening as she focused inward.
I joined them, but I wasn¡¯t there to cultivate. Instead, I monitored their qi circulation, stepping forward to ensure everything flowed smoothly. Elder Ming, who had been observing from a distance, came over as well, standing silently beside me. His presence was steady and reassuring. I was glad for it.
Wang Jun was the first to react. I felt as the energy flowed through him, his qi pathways circulating properly. I discretely analyzed the rhythm of his circulation, noting how easily the pill had integrated with his natural qi flow. I couldn¡¯t help but smile, pleased that my guess had been right.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.
Lan-Yin seemed to benefit as well, with Elder Ming nodding in satisfaction from inspecting her qi circulation. I could tell she was adjusting well.
Elder Ming broke the silence, his voice low but thoughtful. "These pills... were they made using those hybrid plants?"
I nodded, feeling a surge of pride. "Yeah, I¡¯ve been experimenting with them for the past week. I finally found a combination that works, though I had to throw out more batches than I care to admit." I winced a little, remembering the countless failed attempts. I''d need to start ordering additional ingredients from Huan. Foraging in the forest wasn''t ideal.
He raised an eyebrow but smiled slightly. "And yet, you don¡¯t seem too bothered by those failures."
I shrugged, waving him off. "I¡¯m learning not to let it get to me. It¡¯s better to plan for failure than to expect perfection. I made sure to prepare extra ingredients, knowing full well some of it would go wrong."
"Wise beyond your years, it seems."
I stood there, watching Wang Jun and Lan-Yin as they cultivated, the winter air crisp around us. Their auras slowly grew stronger as the pills began to work, and it was hard not to feel a quiet sense of satisfaction.
Having learned the intricacies of pill-making and its effect on the body I knew how important it was to give the right medicine to the right person. People reacted differently, depending on their elemental affinities. Lan Sheng''s mention of hyper-responders, people whose bodies soak up the benefits of a well-aligned pill like dry soil absorbing water, stuck with me.
I''d crafted these pills with care, taking into account what I knew about Wang Jun and Lan-Yin.
But it wasn''t just about the pills. Watching them now, I knew that hoarding power and knowledge wasn''t going to help anyone. These were dangerous times. The disciples of Narrow Stone Peak still lingered in the village, their presence a constant reminder of the lurking threats. It was better to make sure everyone around me was capable of defending themselves, at least somewhat.
Elder Ming must''ve sensed where my thoughts were drifting. "The Narrow Stone Peak disciples... They''ve been persistent, haven''t they?"
I nodded, recalling how they¡¯d tried to persuade the villagers over the past few days. They weren¡¯t overtly hostile, just persuasive. They¡¯d come to me too, of course. I had stood my ground, politely but firmly refusing their offer, but there was a lingering doubt in my mind. Was I right to refuse them?
"They¡¯re persistent, but not pushy," I said, trying to find the right balance in describing them. "It¡¯s strange. They aren¡¯t unfriendly, but they won¡¯t take no for an answer either."
Elder Ming¡¯s face remained unreadable for a moment, before he gave a slight nod. "That¡¯s the way of most cultivators. Righteous sects, like the Verdant Lotus, are exceptions rather than the norm. Narrow Stone Peak may not mean any harm, but... you¡¯re right to trust your instincts. Especially from what you told me of their character."
"I guess so," I muttered, still feeling that nagging doubt. Had I turned down something that could¡¯ve been helpful? Maybe they really did just want to protect the village. But something about their smoothness, their persistence¡ªit didn¡¯t sit right with me.
"Your instincts are often sharper than you realize, Kai. Trust them. You¡¯ve been through enough to know when something doesn¡¯t feel right."
I sighed, my breath fogging up in the cold air as I looked out at my friends, still sitting there in peaceful cultivation. "Yeah, I guess. It¡¯s just hard to know for sure, sometimes."
"That uncertainty is part of the journey," Elder Ming replied, smiling softly. "But one thing is certain. What you¡¯ve done here, for them, is more valuable than any protection they could¡¯ve offered. These pills, your support, your presence, it¡¯s enough."
I glanced at Wang Jun and Lan-Yin again, feeling the warmth of his words settle over me. Maybe he was right. I didn¡¯t need to rely on outside forces to protect those I cared about. I had my own strength, my own knowledge, and I wasn¡¯t alone.
"Thanks," I said quietly, the weight of the conversation slowly lifting. "And one day," I added, almost impulsively, "I¡¯ll make something to fix your dantian, Elder Ming."
He chuckled, shaking his head. "You¡¯ve got enough on your plate, Kai. Don¡¯t worry about an old man like me."
I wasn¡¯t just making pills for the sake of power. I was making them to give those around me a fighting chance, to share the strength I was gaining with the people I cared about. It was as simple as that.
"You should get out of here," He said, his voice light now, almost teasing. "I¡¯ll watch over them while they cultivate. Go, take a break."
I smiled at Elder Ming¡¯s words, giving a grateful nod before turning away, the cold air cutting through my robes as I made my way back to the shop. His reassurance settled into me, quieting the doubts that had lingered. Still, there was always more work to be done. Always another step to take.
As I scanned the village on my way back, the absence of the Narrow Stone Peak disciples gnawed at me. They¡¯d been persistent before, always hovering around the square, trying to convince the villagers. Perhaps they were taking the day off, or better yet; left the village. The unease prickled at the back of my neck, but I pushed it aside. For now.
Seeing Windy patrol the garden, I waved at him with a smile. For some reason, the Five Fists of Narrow Stone Peak gave him a wide berth. Although it didn''t stop their leader, Wei Long, from coming in to recruit me. Good thing Tianyi could move like lightning when she needed to, so she hasn''t been exposed yet.
As I stepped inside the warmth of the shop, the familiar scent of herbs and oils greeted me. The light from the small hearth flickered against the walls, casting long shadows across the shelves packed with ingredients and tools. I let out a sigh, feeling the tension from the day slowly ease from my shoulders.
I walked over to my workstation, where the pills I¡¯d prepared for myself sat in neat rows. They had taken time to craft, but now that I had them in front of me, I felt a sense of satisfaction. I¡¯d been waiting to take these for a while now, especially since I hadn¡¯t fully incorporated the effects of the beast core elixir yet.
I held up one of the pills, studying its polished surface in the flickering firelight. This particular pill wasn¡¯t just for strengthening my qi; it was designed to target the pill residue left in my body from the beast core elixir.
"I suppose it''s a good problem to have."
Pill residue was a subtle but serious problem. It blocked the circulation of qi, diminishing the effectiveness of future pill consumption. Even though my pure qi cultivation method meant I had far less residue than most, it still accumulated over time.
This pill would cleanse that residue, unblocking my qi channels and allowing me to absorb future medicines more effectively. It was a small step, but a crucial one.
I glanced over at Tianyi, who had been sitting quietly in her human form, reading one of the many books I¡¯d gathered for her to keep busy. She looked up as I walked toward her.
"Guard me while I cultivate," I said with a playful grin, knowing full well I didn¡¯t need a guard in my own shop.
She nodded, her large eyes unblinking as she did so. "I¡¯ll keep an eye out for any intruders," she said, mimicking a warrior¡¯s salute.
Perhaps Liang Feng''s works were a good way for her to learn the ways of a human.
I chuckled and settled down in my usual spot, crossing my legs and centering myself. I held the pill between my fingers for a moment, then swallowed it in one smooth motion. The taste was bitter, but familiar, like iron and earth mixed together.
Closing my eyes, I began to circulate my qi, feeling the pill dissolve and release its essence into my system. Slowly but surely, the energy began to flow, cleansing the remnants of old elixirs, burning away the impurities that had clogged my channels. It wasn¡¯t painful, but it was intense like a deep, internal scrubbing.
Time slipped away as I immersed myself in the cultivation process, focusing entirely on the flow of qi. I could feel the effects taking hold, the smoothness of my channels returning, my body slowly regaining that sharp, efficient edge that residue dulled.
Somewhere in the back of my mind, Elder Ming¡¯s words lingered. It wasn¡¯t about proving anything to anyone, it was about knowing that I was doing my best, that I was growing in my own way.
But still... there was always the push, the hunger to reach higher, to become stronger. I couldn¡¯t shake that drive. Not entirely. I wasn¡¯t sure I even wanted to.
The night deepened around me, but I didn¡¯t stop. The fire within me had been lit, and I had no intention of letting it dim.
The room had long since fallen into a deep, tranquil silence, the crackling fire in the hearth casting warm, flickering shadows across the walls. Tianyi sat in her corner of the shop, legs tucked beneath her, a thin strand of hair slipping loose from her cascading locks. She glanced at Kai, who was deep in meditation, his breathing steady, his face relaxed but focused.
But something else tugged at her attention, a nagging sensation at the edge of her consciousness.
Tianyi¡¯s delicate wings, though hidden in her human form, tingled faintly as she stared at the lone strand of hair that had fallen across her cheek. It twitched slightly, as if disturbed by the faintest breath of wind, though the room was still.
Her neck turned suddenly, her movements sharp and graceful. Her sharp senses, honed over a lifetime of surviving in a world that often treated her as prey, pricked at something just beyond her immediate awareness.
A faint rustle, like the brushing of leaves. The room was silent, but the world outside wasn¡¯t. Her gaze flicked toward the window, and a whisper escaped her lips.
¡°Someone¡¯s near.¡±
141. Broken Stems
Under the pale light of the moon, the man moved like a shadow, his blade cutting through the winter air with lethal precision. The sound of steel slicing through the frozen stems and delicate plants of the garden filled the night, each swing methodical, destructive. His eyes narrowed as he approached the nearly finished greenhouse, the fragile structure gleaming faintly under the moon''s gaze. With a smirk curling his lips, he stepped forward, intent on reducing it to splinters with a single strike.
He raised his blade, preparing for the decisive blow, when he suddenly froze. A sensation crawled up his spine, prickling his skin. It was a feeling he knew well¡ªkilling intent. Cold, sharp, and unmistakable.
His grip tightened on the hilt of his sword as he slowly turned, scanning the dark garden for the source. His gaze fell on a white serpent, coiled beneath the snow-dusted bushes, its body shimmering with a faint blue sheen. The snake''s hiss cut through the silence, its blue eyes gleaming with fury.
The man¡¯s shoulders relaxed slightly, a chuckle slipping from his throat. "Just the snake," he muttered, tilting his head as he considered whether to kill it as well. ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of time before it becomes a nuisance.¡±
He took a step toward it, but something caught his eye, movement just above the greenhouse, high on the rooftop.
There, bathed in the soft glow of the full moon, stood a figure. A woman cloaked in a flowing blue silk robe that shimmered like water. Her face was obscured, half-hidden beneath the folds of her hood, but what struck him most were her eyes.
Too large. Too blank. Cold, emotionless, and unnerving. She glowered at him with an intensity that sent a chill through his body, freezing him in place.
For a moment, the woman stood perfectly still, like a statue carved from ice. The wind tugged at her robe, but she remained motionless, her gaze never leaving him. There was something deeply unsettling about her presence, her stillness unnatural, her silence deafening.
His heart hammered in his chest, his fingers twitching at the hilt of his blade. "What the hell¡?" he whispered, backing away, his bravado slipping. "They didn''t say anything about this."
Something primal told him to run.
Before he could even finish the thought, she moved.
A blur of motion, faster than his eyes could follow. The next thing he knew, she was no longer on the rooftop¡ªshe was upon him.
Her foot crashed into his chest with the force of a battering ram, the impact so sudden and brutal that his breath was knocked out of him. He barely registered the searing pain in his ribs as his body flew backward, crashing past the garden fence, and skidding across the cold ground. The world spun, and blood filled his mouth as he coughed violently, struggling to breathe.
The man wheezed, clutching his ribs, feeling the sharp sting with every breath. His mind raced as he forced himself to his feet, his vision swimming. Gritting his teeth, he lifted his blade, eyes wild with desperation.
This was no ordinary opponent.
With a growl, he swung his sword at her in a wide arc, putting all his strength into the blow. But the woman didn¡¯t move to dodge. Instead, she raised her arm, bare and delicate, and deflected the blade with casual indifference.
His sword collided with her arm, and to his shock, it bounced off, barely leaving a small scratch. He stared, dumbfounded, as the blade trembled in his hands, the sting of the recoil shooting up his arms. "What the¡ª"
Before he could finish, she struck.
A barrage of punches rained down on him, each one lightning-fast, blurring into a flurry of strikes. The blows weren¡¯t heavy, but their speed disoriented him, forcing him back step by step as he tried to keep up with her movements. He swung wildly in an attempt to regain control, but it was futile. She was too fast, her fists hammering into him with precision, leaving him with no opening.
With a frustrated roar, he threw his sword to the ground, opting for hand-to-hand combat. His fists came up defensively, and he lashed out, striking at her midsection. To his surprise, she didn¡¯t dodge this time. His punch connected with her side, and for a brief moment, he thought he had the upper hand.
He pressed forward, swinging harder and faster. Without the blade, he fought noticeably better, his strikes more fluid, more familiar. His confidence surged as he blocked her next punch and retaliated with a heavy strike to her ribs. She staggered, if only for a fraction of a second, and he grinned in triumph. This was it. He had her.
The man caught her fist in his hand, squeezing tightly. "Got you now," he spat, his grin widening as he looked her dead in the eye.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.
Pain lanced through his leg. He looked down, his heart sinking as he saw the small white serpent¡ªits fangs buried deep in his calf. Windy hissed, eyes glowing with an eerie blue light as the venom pumped into his bloodstream.
The man¡¯s breath hitched as his leg went numb, the venom quickly spreading through his veins. His grip on Tianyi''s fist weakened, panic flashing in his eyes. He cursed under his breath, his muscles twitching as the paralytic poison took hold. Staggering back, he tried to steady himself, but his limbs felt heavy, sluggish. He needed to escape, now.
"Show yourself, intruder!"
From a distance, voices echoed, sharp and urgent. The disciples of Narrow Stone Peak were coming, drawn by the commotion. He cursed again, louder this time. He had no time. His hand trembled as he reached for his fallen sword, but his body was betraying him, stiffening with each passing second.
With a desperate grunt, he turned and bolted into the night without his blade, his movements unsteady but faster than expected, given the venom coursing through him. He disappeared into the darkness, leaving a trail of shallow footprints in the snow.
Tianyi remained where she stood, her blank gaze following his retreating figure. The danger had passed, but the sound of approaching footsteps grew louder. She couldn''t stay here.
A flicker of doubt crossed her face, the memory of Kai¡¯s words flashing in her mind. He had warned her, told her not to reveal herself to these people. Her lips pressed together in a thin line, and with a swift movement, she scooped up Windy, cradling the serpent close.
Without a sound, she darted toward the house, her movements a blur as she slipped through the door. Inside, the shop was dimly lit, Kai still deep in his meditation. She hesitated for a fraction of a second, her instincts pulling her to remain on guard, but Kai''s words anchored her decision.
Muttering quietly, almost as if reassuring herself, ¡°Kai said not to reveal myself¡¡±
She crawled under the bed, curling up in the shadows. Though hidden, she stayed alert, ready for anything.
I stirred from my cultivation, my senses gradually returning as the world around me came back into focus. The faint murmur of voices reached my ears, and I blinked, my vision adjusting to the dim light of the shop. Something felt off.
My muscles were stiff, a sign that I had been meditating for longer than I intended. But that wasn¡¯t the problem. My eyes adjusted, and I saw them¡ªLan-Yin and Wang Jun, standing at the doorway, their postures tense, as if guarding me. A few villagers had torches lit, looking around in concern.
¡°Kai,¡± Wang Jun said the moment he saw me stir. His voice was steady, but there was something beneath the surface, a tension. ¡°You¡¯re awake.¡±
I sat up fully, rubbing the sleep from my eyes. ¡°What happened? Why''re you all here?¡±
Lan-Yin stepped forward, her expression serious. ¡°Someone vandalized your garden. It¡¯s... bad.¡±
I froze for a moment, my mind racing. Vandalized? My garden? I quickly pushed myself to my feet, ignoring the stiffness in my legs as I made my way to the door. The cold air hit me as soon as I stepped outside, and I looked toward the garden. My breath caught in my throat.
A chunk of it was destroyed. The delicate plants I had spent so much time cultivating were trampled, the once neat rows of herbs and flowers reduced to a mess of broken stems and scattered earth. The greenhouse... nearly finished, was untouched, but the surrounding area looked as if a battle had taken place. My chest tightened with frustration.
¡°Damn it,¡± I muttered, my voice louder than intended. ¡°Who would...?¡±
I trailed off, noticing a familiar figure standing just beyond the fence. Wei Long. His expression was grim, his usually calm demeanor replaced with something far more serious. He approached, stopping just short of the entrance to the garden.
¡°The Five Fists are pursuing the trail,¡± Wei Long said without preamble, his voice low. ¡°We believe the culprit fled after realizing they had been discovered.¡±
I clenched my fists, trying to keep my temper in check. ¡°Did they see who it was?¡±
Wei Long shook his head. ¡°No. The trail is faint, but they¡¯re skilled trackers. If anyone can find him, it¡¯s them.¡±
I took a deep breath, forcing myself to remain calm. My mind was racing, though. If they didn¡¯t know who it was... I couldn¡¯t afford to take any chances. My eyes darted discreetly around the area, searching for any sign of Tianyi or Windy.
A flicker of movement caught my attention near the base of the shop. Windy, coiled in the snow, watching me closely. It was as if the serpent knew what I was looking for. Slowly, Windy¡¯s head tilted toward the house, his gaze fixating on the doorway.
My eyes followed, and I understood. Tianyi. She was inside, hiding. She had listened to me. Thank the heavens.
I turned back to Wei Long, doing my best to mask my relief. ¡°Thank you,¡± I said, nodding to him. ¡°I appreciate your help. Let me know if they find anything.¡±
Wei Long studied me for a moment, his expression unreadable, before nodding in return. ¡°We¡¯ll keep you informed. Stay vigilant. Whoever did this might return.¡±
As the first-class disciple turned to leave, his figure blending into the shadows, I remained rooted to the spot, my gaze slowly shifting back to the garden. The cold breeze stung my skin, but it was nothing compared to the ache that had started to form in my chest.
The Moonlit Grace Lilies I had been cultivating for months were crushed, their silver-white petals scattered like remnants of a broken memory. My hands trembled as I walked toward them, crouching down to gently pick up one of the trampled stems. It was limp in my fingers, the life force of the plant fading as quickly as my hope for their recovery.
The scent of crushed herbs and broken soil filled the air, but it was the sight of those lilies that hurt the most. They weren¡¯t just any plants; they were my connection to my mother. I had nurtured these flowers as a way of remembering her, of keeping a part of her with me. And now...
My vision blurred, a lump forming in my throat as I struggled to hold back the tears. The weight of the destruction was too much. I clenched my teeth, my breath shaky, trying to find the anger I knew should be there. But all I felt was grief.
Deep, aching grief.
"Kai..." Lan-Yin''s voice broke through the silence, soft and filled with concern. She knelt beside me, her hand resting gently on my shoulder. "I''m sorry."
Wang Jun stood behind her, his fists clenched, a mixture of anger and sympathy on his face. "We''ll help you rebuild," he said, his voice firm but strained. "We¡¯ll fix this."
I wanted to say something. To thank them, to tell them it wasn¡¯t their responsibility... but the words wouldn¡¯t come. Instead, I just nodded, my hand still holding the ruined stem of the lily, its once-vibrant glow now nothing more than a dull shimmer under the moonlight.
I had worked so hard, pouring my time and energy into these plants, hoping to create something beautiful, and a potent medicine in the case of an emergency. But this... this was beyond fixing with just effort. Months of cultivation, of care and attention, were destroyed in one careless moment. It wasn¡¯t just the garden; it felt like a part of me had been trampled as well.
Lan-Yin gave my shoulder a comforting squeeze. ¡°We¡¯ll find whoever did this,¡± she whispered, her voice steady. ¡°And we¡¯ll make sure they pay.¡±
But I wasn¡¯t thinking about revenge. Not in that moment. I was just thinking about the waste of it all.
"Why these?" I mumbled, my voice barely audible, speaking more to myself than anyone. "Why the lilies?"
I couldn¡¯t shake the image of my mother¡¯s smile as she had shown me how to prepare them long ago. The way her hands had moved so gently over the petals, her voice full of warmth and patience. I had carried that memory with me, and seeing the lilies bloom had been like a small piece of her living on. But now they were gone, and it felt like I had lost her all over again.
The cold pressed in, and I wiped at my eyes hastily, not wanting my friends to see the tears that had finally escaped. But they didn¡¯t need to say anything. Their presence was enough, grounding me as I mourned the loss of something more than just a garden.
Lan-Yin sat beside me, her silence filled with understanding, while Wang Jun stood vigil, his gaze scanning the surroundings as if daring the attacker to return.
The night stretched on, the moonlight casting long shadows across the destroyed garden.
142. Fragments and Friends
I couldn¡¯t sleep.
After the events of the night, sleep felt like a distant hope. My body was exhausted, but my mind refused to settle. I needed to do something, anything, to push away the frustration gnawing at me.
So I got up.
I found myself outside, standing in the wreckage. The cold air nipped at my skin, but I didn¡¯t care. I just wanted to try and salvage what I could. The garden had been a sanctuary for me, a place where I could nurture life, and now it lay in pieces. I knelt in the dirt, my hands brushing over the remnants of the plants, trying to figure out where to even start.
Before long, I heard the familiar crunch of footsteps behind me. I didn¡¯t need to turn around to know who it was.
"Brought some spare wood from the forge," Wang Jun said, his voice cutting through the quiet morning air. "It''ll be enough to fix the fences. They needed to be replaced anyway."
Lan-Yin ruffled my hair, carrying a small basket with her.
I opened my mouth to tell them they didn¡¯t need to, but she beat me to it.
"Don¡¯t say anything about us needing rest," she added, shaking his head with a small grin. "I¡¯ve got so much energy in me, I don¡¯t think I could sit still if I tried."
Her betrothed nodded, a smile tugging at his lips. "Those pills you gave us... well, let''s just say we owe you. And besides," he gestured to the garden, "we''re not letting you handle this alone."
I wanted to argue, to tell them it was okay, that I¡¯d figure it out myself. But honestly? I was grateful. Grateful for their help, grateful for their presence. And maybe a little too drained to push them away.
Together, we worked in silence for a while. They didn¡¯t try to cheer me up with empty words or platitudes. Instead, they threw themselves into helping me clean up the wreckage, focusing on rebuilding the garden. Wang Jun fixed the sections of the fence that had been trampled, while Lan-Yin gathered what plants could still be saved.
I found myself glancing at the Moonlit Grace Lilies, or what was left of them. Every time I saw the crushed petals, that tightness in my chest returned. But seeing Lan-Yin and Wang Jun working so hard, it reminded me that there was still a chance to recover, even if it was small.
As the sun began to rise higher, casting golden light over the village, we paused. The worst of the damage had been cleared, but there was still so much left to do. I could already feel the strain in my muscles from the work, but it was a good kind of tired. A distraction from everything else.
We finally headed back inside for a well-deserved break. I sat down at the table, exhaustion beginning to settle in. Lan-Yin excused herself, saying she¡¯d run home to grab something for breakfast. Moments later, she returned with a steaming pot of rice porridge, and I rummaged through my shelves for some preserved vegetables and dried meats to add to the bowls.
We sat together, the morning light filtering in through the windows as we shared the simple meal. I took a quiet moment, sneaking a bowl of sugar water under the bed for Tianyi, who¡¯d been hiding there all night. She deserved something after staying there without a sound. It was almost unsettling, knowing she was there.
As we ate, I couldn¡¯t help but glance over at Wang Jun and Lan-Yin. I set my chopsticks down and leaned back, curious.
"How much stronger are your reserves after those pills?"
Wang Jun grinned proudly, his chest puffing out a bit. "According to the Heavenly Interface, I¡¯ve reached the second rank of the Qi Initiation Stage."
Lan-Yin nodded, though her expression was more modest. "First rank for me, but I can definitely feel the difference."
I raised an eyebrow, impressed. They both made solid progress, but this was the perfect moment to explain something they might not have considered.
"That¡¯s great," I said, "but I want to talk to you both about something important¡ªpill residue."
The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
They both looked at me with a mix of curiosity and confusion.
"What''s that?" Wang Jun asked, pausing mid-bite.
"Pill residue," I began, "is what¡¯s left behind in your body after you take a pill. Even though pills give you a permanent boost in power and energy, they leave behind residual materials in your body. If that residue builds up too much, it can block your qi circulation. It¡¯s like clogging a river with debris, it slows everything down and eventually stops it altogether."
Lan-Yin frowned, setting her bowl down. "So, the pills aren¡¯t as perfect as they seem?"
I nodded. "Exactly. Pills are helpful, but they aren¡¯t a shortcut to power. If you rely too heavily on them without properly integrating the energy into your dantian, you¡¯ll end up hitting a wall in your cultivation. And that¡¯s not all¡ªover time, the residue can weaken the effects of future pills. That¡¯s why detoxification pills are so important. They clear out the residue, making sure your qi flows smoothly."
They both nodded, taking the information seriously.
"And don¡¯t worry," I added with a grin, "I¡¯ve got detoxification pills ready for when you need them."
The three of us shared a small laugh, but the lesson was clear.
For now, though, we enjoyed the rest of our breakfast in peace, the morning sun casting a warm glow over us. Despite everything that had happened, I couldn¡¯t help but feel grateful for friends like them.
Even in the worst moments, I wasn¡¯t alone.
But even as I sat there, trying to soak in the calm of the moment, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of being hyper-aware of Tianyi''s presence. She¡¯d been hiding under my bed all night without a word. I don''t think I even heard her when I first attempted to sleep.
I caught myself glancing toward the bed more often than I should have. Guilt gnawed at me. I¡¯d kept her in hiding, and it didn¡¯t sit right with me, but I couldn¡¯t see any other choice. I was responsible for her safety, and as much as I wanted to make things right, I had to be cautious. That thought didn''t ease my conscience, though. I hope the sugar water will appease her for now. I hadn''t cleaned under there in a while.
After breakfast, the three of us gathered what was left of the garden and headed to Elder Ming¡¯s courtyard for morning training. The walk there was quiet, almost somber, the weight of last night hanging over us.
When we arrived, Elder Ming was sitting on his usual stone bench, his eyes closed in deep thought. He opened them when we approached, his gaze immediately falling on me.
¡°Kai,¡± he said, his voice steady, ¡°you look troubled. What¡¯s on your mind?¡±
I hesitated for a moment before stepping forward. "There was a break-in at my house last night. Someone came into my garden, destroyed a lot of the plants I¡¯d been cultivating. They got away before anyone could catch them.¡±
Elder Ming¡¯s expression darkened immediately, his brows furrowing. ¡°A bandit?¡± His tone was low, but there was an edge to it.
"Maybe," I replied, unsure how much to reveal. ¡°Whoever it was didn¡¯t steal anything... just wrecked the place."
Elder Ming¡¯s jaw clenched, and he exchanged a knowing look with me. ¡°The Narrow Stone Peak disciples,¡± he muttered, his voice filled with suspicion. ¡°They¡¯ve been... persistent, haven¡¯t they? Trying to get closer to the village, to us.¡±
It made sense. The Narrow Stone Peak disciples had been too eager to ¡°help¡± the village and their constant presence had been wearing on me. But before I could respond, Lan-Yin spoke up.
¡°It couldn¡¯t have been them,¡± she said, shaking her head. ¡°We were staying at the Soaring Swallow Tea House last night, and we noticed the commotion from the balcony. The disciples were there, watching the whole thing with us. They even pointed it out.¡±
That gave me pause. If they weren¡¯t directly involved, then who was? A mystery wrapped around this incident, and it only deepened the growing sense of unease I had about everything lately.
I tried to think through the haze of my exhaustion, searching for other possibilities. Who else could have done this?
Duan Jian? The thought crossed my mind, but I quickly dismissed it. After the incident in the alley with Xu Ziqing, he had made himself scarce. Even if he harbored resentment toward me, he didn¡¯t know where I lived, or at least I hoped he didn¡¯t.
The Iron Claw sect? Another possibility, but unlikely. They¡¯d gone completely silent if Zhi Ruo''s letter was correct. There hadn¡¯t been any reports of them resurfacing, either.
Silent Moon sect? Another candidate, but I doubted I was on their radar. I hadn¡¯t done anything significant to attract their attention, and as far as I knew, they had no quarrel with me anymore. Not when they were looking at upending the status quo of the province and expanding themselves.
I was running out of potential enemies. It didn¡¯t add up.
Elder Ming¡¯s voice broke through my thoughts. ¡°You¡¯re thinking about who might be responsible, aren¡¯t you?¡±
I nodded, still unsure of my conclusions. "I just can''t figure it out. It doesn''t seem like any of the usual suspects."
¡°Sometimes it¡¯s not about who you¡¯ve wronged, but what you possess that others covet. Keep that in mind.¡±
Could it be about the garden itself? The herbs, the hybrids¡ but none of it seemed valuable enough to warrant an attack. Still, it was clear I needed to be on high alert.
Elder Ming studied me for a moment before he spoke again. ¡°I don¡¯t want you to train today.¡±
I blinked, taken aback. ¡°What? Why?¡±
He gave me a knowing look. ¡°You¡¯re not physically exhausted, Kai. It¡¯s your mind that¡¯s worn out. Cultivation can do just as much for you today as any physical training would. Take the time to meditate, absorb the qi around you, and let your body and mind heal.¡±
His words rang true, though they stung a bit. I¡¯d always been the type to push myself, but he wasn¡¯t wrong. My head was a mess, and maybe forcing myself through drills wouldn¡¯t help me clear it.
Lan-Yin and Wang Jun both chimed in agreement.
¡°I have to say,¡± Wang Jun added with a smile, ¡°cultivation has been a lot smoother lately, thanks to the abundance of qi in the air. Don''t know how I would''ve gotten through morning practice without it.¡±
Lan-Yin nodded. ¡°It feels like it¡¯s been that way for the past few months, but it¡¯s really ramped up since you got back, Kai. I suppose he''s a harbinger of good fortune. Many thanks, young master.¡±
Come to think of it, the ambient qi around the village had grown stronger, comparable to a sect¡¯s training grounds. I was so absorbed in getting back to my daily life that I didn''t notice, but even compared to the Verdant Lotus sect, the amount here didn''t fall short, did it?
I looked at Elder Ming, doing my best to keep my expression neutral. ¡°Is it true the qi here has been steadily growing? Even while I was away?¡±
He nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Somewhat, but nothing like it is now. Ever since you returned, it¡¯s been unusually strong. It¡¯s as if the village itself is becoming a prime spot for cultivation.¡±
I felt my pulse quicken. The realization hit me like a jolt.
Tianyi¡¯s Qi Haven skill. She had broken through in cultivation, did it mean her abilities were enhanced? I recalled the moment when we were riding the horses back here. Her presence allowed them to run without stopping for hours. If her Qi Haven skill had been amplified to a similar degree, then...
I needed to confirm this. But the more pressing issue was the danger this posed.
If I had noticed the change, surely the Narrow Stone Peak disciples had too.
I glanced at Elder Ming, my decision made. ¡°Can I leave early today? There¡¯s something I need to check on.¡±
He gave me a concerned look but nodded. ¡°Go ahead. Be careful, Kai.¡±
As I turned to leave, the tension built within me. I had to get to the bottom of this¡ªand fast. Something much larger was at play, and it wasn¡¯t just about a break-in anymore.
It was about power.
And it was growing.
143. The Silent Witness
As I rushed back home, the weight of what I had just learned settled heavily in my chest. The realization of what was happening, of what had been happening under my nose this whole time, made my heart pound even harder. The ambient qi in the village, stronger than it should have been. And now it all pointed back to one person.
Tianyi.
When I reached my front door, I paused, quickly scanning the area for any sign of prying eyes. The last thing I needed was someone from Narrow Stone Peak catching me talking to her. The village was still quiet, early enough that most people were either still eating or getting ready for their day. I slipped inside the house and closed the door behind me as quietly as I could.
¡°Tianyi,¡± I called softly, approaching my bed, where she¡¯d spent the night hidden. "You can come out now."
There was a slight rustling from underneath the bed, and then a soft sigh as she emerged, moving with that quiet grace that always unnerved me a bit. Windy was curled up beside her, his blue eyes gleaming in the dim light, as if sensing my thoughts. Tianyi¡¯s large, too-bright eyes met mine, and for a moment, we just stared at each other.
I took a breath, steadying myself. "I need to ask you something, and I need you to be completely honest with me."
Her head tilted slightly, the faintest sign of curiosity.
"I¡¯ve noticed... the ambient qi in the village," I began, choosing my words carefully. "It¡¯s stronger now, more than it was when I left for the Verdant Lotus Sect. And since I got back, it¡¯s been getting even stronger. Stronger than it should be."
Her gaze didn¡¯t waver, but I could see the recognition in her eyes.
"It¡¯s your Qi Haven skill, isn¡¯t it? Has it changed? Has it expanded beyond just specific zones and now covers the entire village?"
For a moment, Tianyi didn¡¯t respond. Her eyes remained fixed on mine, unreadable. Then, slowly, she nodded.
"After my breakthrough," she said quietly, her voice soft but clear, "my skill grew. It no longer affects only small, isolated areas. The entire village is now within its range, creating a place where the qi is richer, stronger."
My stomach twisted at her confirmation. It made perfect sense, but it also made everything so much more complicated.
"So that¡¯s why the ambient qi is so strong..." I muttered to myself, my mind racing. Elder Ming, Wang Jun, and Lan-Yin had all noticed it too. But none of us had understood why until now.
Tianyi¡¯s eyes never left me, although the two strands falling in front of her face continued to twitch with nervous energy.
The reason the Narrow Stone Peak disciples were hanging around¡ the reason they were so eager to "help" the village, it all made sense now.
My mind flashed back to that conversation with Wei Long, the first time he came to the village. I had overlooked his words then, distracted by his smooth-talking and the obvious power he wielded. But now¡ his words echoed back in my mind with new clarity.
''We have reason to believe the bandit activity will spread soon, and spirit beasts are drawn to areas of concentrated qi, such as this village.''
He knew. Maybe not the full extent of it, but he knew something was different here. He saw the village¡¯s growing significance, and now I could see why the disciples of Narrow Stone Peak were so eager to establish themselves here. It wasn¡¯t just about protecting the village from bandits. They wanted to control it. They wanted the qi.
And now that I knew the truth, I had to be careful. More careful than ever before.
I let out a slow breath, the weight of the situation sinking in deeper. ¡°Thank you, Tianyi," I said softly, feeling a mixture of gratitude and concern. "Thank you for staying hidden and keeping yourself out of sight. I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do if they found out about you.¡±
Tianyi remained still, her gaze unwavering but now tinged with something... hesitant. She shifted slightly, her wings twitching ever so subtly, and I could sense she had something to say. I waited, the silence stretching between us.
Finally, she spoke, her voice quieter than usual. ¡°I didn¡¯t stay hidden the entire time.¡±This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it
I blinked, her words catching me off guard. ¡°What do you mean?¡±
She glanced down, her large eyes showing a flicker of uncertainty. ¡°Last night when the man came to the garden. I... I didn''t stay hidden. He was going to destroy the greenhouse, and I know how much it means to you.¡±
The realization hit me like a punch to the gut. She had fought off the intruder, shown her face. My pulse quickened.
¡°I didn¡¯t want to fight,¡± she added quickly, as if sensing the worry rising in me. ¡°But I couldn¡¯t let him destroy the place you¡¯ve worked so hard on. So I stopped him. I stayed out of sight of the bald men in the village... I made sure no one else saw me.¡±
A wave of relief mixed with panic surged through me. She had protected the greenhouse, but at what cost? If anyone had seen her, if anyone even suspected...
¡°Tianyi,¡± I whispered, trying to keep my voice calm, though my mind was racing. ¡°You... you shouldn¡¯t have¡ª¡± I stopped myself, realizing that there was no point in chastising her. She had done it out of care, out of loyalty. But now this situation was far more serious than I thought.
My mind shifted focus. I needed to know more. My gaze hardened as I knelt down, closer to her level. ¡°Tell me everything about the attacker. What did they look like? How did they fight?¡±
Tianyi stared at me, her eyes narrowing slightly in thought, as though she were piecing together how to explain something that didn¡¯t fully make sense to her yet. Her wings twitched slightly.
¡°It¡ was like Windy¡¯s fang,¡± she started, her voice halting. ¡°Sharp. He used it¡ not to bite, but to... slice?¡± She tilted her head, searching for the right word. ¡°He cut the garden with it.¡±
I frowned, trying to follow her logic. ¡°A blade?¡±
Tianyi¡¯s face brightened at the word, and she nodded quickly. ¡°Yes! A blade, like a bigger, meaner fang. He had it when I saw him. He was slow. Slower than I thought he would be.¡±
My heart clenched at the thought of her facing that intruder alone. ¡°And what happened when you confronted him?¡±
She glanced down at her arm, where a thin line still marred her pale skin. It was faint, but the sight of it stoked an ember inside me. I fought to keep my expression neutral as she continued.
¡°He dropped the fang,¡± she said, the words coming more easily now. ¡°He was worse with it. Better with his fists. When he fought with his hands, I couldn¡¯t hit him as much.¡± She trailed off, her hand gently brushing the scratch. ¡°He hit me here with the fang. But it¡¯s nothing.¡±
I stared at the faint scratch, feeling a cold rage creeping up my spine. I wasn¡¯t sure if it was because of the intruder daring to strike her, or the fact that she seemed so nonchalant about it. My mind replayed her words: dropped the blade... better with his fists.
It wasn¡¯t just some petty thief. Whoever this was had training.
¡°He hurt you,¡± I said, the words coming out more sharply than I intended.
She tilted her head, her wings shifting slightly, confused by the intensity in my voice. ¡°A scratch. It will heal.¡±
But I couldn¡¯t let it go so easily. A dull roar filled my head, like a pressure building, ready to explode.
I took a breath, trying to ground myself, but the anger wouldn¡¯t go away. Not fully. Instead, it simmered just below the surface, waiting.
Tianyi¡¯s eyes widened slightly as she studied me. ¡°You¡ are angry?¡±
¡°I am,¡± I said, quieter this time. ¡°Not at you. Never at you. I¡¯m angry at the man who hurt you. Who came here. I should¡¯ve been there to stop him.¡±
Her expression softened, as though she were trying to understand what I was saying, but couldn¡¯t quite grasp the human depth of emotion. ¡°I stopped him. And¡ I did not want him to destroy the place you cared about. The greenhouse.¡±
I felt a pang of gratitude mingled with that burning anger. She hadn¡¯t acted out of aggression; she had intervened to protect the greenhouse I poured my heart and money into. And yet, the fact that she had to step in at all gnawed at me.
¡°Thank you,¡± I muttered, barely above a whisper. ¡°You did the right thing."
But even as I said it, I knew this situation was far more serious than I had realized. This wasn¡¯t some random act of vandalism. This was planned. Deliberate. And if Tianyi had to intervene, then it meant the threat wasn¡¯t just against my garden¡ªit was against all of us.
I met her gaze again. ¡°Can you remember anything else about the man? Please, everything you can remember.¡±
She seemed to think for a moment, her eyes flicking toward Windy before returning to me. ¡°He fought hard¡ but left when the bald men started running.¡±
With every word that left her lips, I pushed for more, digging into each detail, dragging every drop of information I could from her memories. What did he do? How did he look when he did it? I pressed her for the smallest gestures, the flick of his hand, the pace of his movements, anything that might give me insight.
She mentioned Windy''s role in the battle, how he bit him on the ankle, pumping him full of venom. The serpent in question looked at me, raising his head high like an arrogant young master.
"Windy, he can track his prey. Whenever he bites. He can tell where they go."
I took a slow breath, trying to piece together the information Tianyi had given me. Her description was a bit fragmented, but it was enough to know that this wasn¡¯t just an amateur sneaking into my garden for a quick smash-and-grab. The man had been armed with a blade, skilled with his fists, and deliberate in his intent to destroy my work.
And if Windy could track people he attacked, then that''d mean we have a trail to follow the culprit.
But still, I needed more information.
I turned toward her, my brows furrowed. ¡°Was it like this?¡± I asked, standing up slowly. I shifted my stance, feet planted firmly, widening my shoulders to imitate a larger, more aggressive style. My arms moved in tight arcs, simulating the way the Narrow Stone Peak disciples would strike. Close-range punches aimed at grappling, their bodies leaning forward to grab or overpower their opponent. I mimicked their footwork, using firm stomps to suggest a stronger, slower approach, designed to overwhelm someone faster.
"They use their size and brute strength to get close,¡± I explained, recalling all I remembered from my spar with Gu Bei, as well as the incident in Crescent Bay. ¡°locking their opponent down with grabs and crushing force."
Tianyi¡¯s wings twitched slightly as she watched my movements. Her eyes lit up with recognition, and she nodded slowly. ¡°Yes... he moved like that. Not fast, but strong. It was harder to hit him when he fought with his hands, since he''d try to catch me.¡±
I cursed under my breath. Narrow Stone Peak. Of course. Everything kept pointing back to them. Their presence, their interest in the village, and now this.
And that¡¯s when it hit me.
The blade. He dropped it according to her, but¡ where was it? Who would''ve taken it?
I¡¯d been outside the entire night, cleaning up the wreckage, combing through the garden, but I never found a blade. There had been no sign of it when I woke up after the break-in, no trace of it in the garden when we were fixing the fence. But it made sense. Some of the plants were cut in half. It wasn''t something that could be accomplished with one''s bare hands.
Just as I was about to speak, a sharp knock echoed through the shop, cutting through the tense air.
I froze, my mind racing. My eyes shot toward Tianyi, and she immediately understood, retreating back under the bed without a sound, with Windy slithering to her side.
The knock came again, this time more forceful, more insistent. My heart pounded in my chest as I straightened up, trying to calm the storm of thoughts swirling in my mind.
I opened the door just a crack, and my stomach sank as I found myself staring into the grim face of Wei Long, the leader of the Narrow Stone Peak disciples.
He wasn¡¯t here for pleasantries.
¡°Kai,¡± Wei Long said, his voice low and measured, but there was an unmistakable edge to it. ¡°We need to talk.¡±
I stepped aside, forcing a calmness into my voice that I didn¡¯t feel.
¡°...Come in.¡±
144. The Mask and the Mantle
The moment Wei Long stepped inside, I felt an uneasy shift in the air. His eyes scanned the room, lingering just a beat too long on every corner and shadow. It wasn¡¯t the casual glance of a visitor; he was looking for something¡ªor someone. I tensed, keeping my expression neutral as I gestured toward a seat near the counter.
I resisted the urge to confront him then and there. Even if I did, what could I do? He was a first-class disciple; that wasn¡¯t someone I could attack on a whim.
If he was in cahoots with the bandit that attacked my garden, then it was fair to assume he knew of Tianyi. And I had to be as cautious as possible.
¡°What brings you by this early, Wei Long?¡± I asked, careful to keep my tone light.
He smiled, but it was tight and controlled, his eyes never quite warming. ¡°I thought it best to continue our previous conversation, especially after last night¡¯s¡ incident.¡± His gaze was intense, unwavering. ¡°Kai, it¡¯s time to reconsider our offer to protect the village. Gentle Wind needs real defenses. Our sect can provide that.¡±
I kept my face neutral, though my mind raced with several emotions.
Why was he so insistent? And¡ why come to me?
¡°I appreciate that, Wei Long, really,¡± I said slowly, ¡°but¡ wouldn¡¯t it make more sense to approach the Village Head directly?¡± I raised an eyebrow, trying to sound as casual as possible. ¡°I¡¯m just the village herbalist, after all.¡±
He held my gaze, leaning forward just slightly. ¡°I could speak with the Village Head, yes. But it¡¯s clear that the village listens to you, Kai. They trust you. They look to you.¡± His smile grew faintly, as though he enjoyed letting this realization settle over me. ¡°Even the Village Head defers to you in matters of security.¡±
My mouth went dry. The casual tone I¡¯d been trying to keep up wavered. I¡¯d thought of myself as the herbalist, the kid who helped out and was sometimes asked for advice. But the truth was there in Wei Long¡¯s words, and it clicked into place, even if I didn¡¯t fully want to acknowledge it. I wasn¡¯t just the herbalist to the people here. I was¡ someone they looked to for answers, for protection.
I¡¯d put myself in that role without even realizing it.
¡°Now do you see?¡± Wei Long said, his voice smooth. ¡°You¡¯re already a leader here, Kai. It¡¯s only natural that you¡¯d be the one to make this decision.¡± He paused, letting his words linger. ¡°And with Narrow Stone Peak¡¯s support, you¡¯d have even more strength to defend the village from future threats.¡±
I let out a slow breath, careful not to reveal my true feelings. ¡°It¡¯s¡ something to consider, definitely,¡± I replied, feigning a thoughtful pause. ¡°But I¡¯ll still need some time. This decision isn¡¯t something I can rush into, and you know how people can be with change.¡±
Wei Long¡¯s smile thinned, but he nodded. ¡°Of course, Kai. But don¡¯t take too long. The break-in was only the first sign. There are others who will come, drawn by the qi here. With our help, they¡¯d have no reason to worry. You¡¯d have our top disciples deployed here, prepared to protect the village from any threat.¡± His voice dropped a notch, his tone unmistakable. ¡°And without us¡ well, it¡¯s your responsibility to keep them safe, isn¡¯t it?¡±
I resisted the urge to scowl, forcing my shoulders to relax instead. ¡°I understand. A few more days, that¡¯s all I ask.¡±
He nodded, seemingly appeased, though his eyes lingered on me a moment longer than necessary. Then, in a voice nearly too casual, he added, ¡°And remember, we¡¯re also here to support your growth. Even if you¡¯re not interested in joining Narrow Stone Peak, you could gain training, resources¡ things that would be difficult to come by otherwise. You¡¯ve done well so far, Kai, but there¡¯s only so much one can achieve alone.¡±
I held his gaze, feigning contemplation even as my resolve hardened. ¡°I appreciate the offer, Wei Long. Really. It would be an honor to train alongside your disciples¡ but I need a bit more time to think about what¡¯s best for the village.¡±
He studied me, but I kept my expression neutral, unyielding. Finally, he gave a small, almost reluctant nod. ¡°Of course. But don¡¯t take too long. This isn¡¯t the kind of decision that can wait.¡±
I walked him to the door, watching as he scanned the room one last time before he stepped out. He paused on the threshold, turning to look at me one final time.
¡°Remember, all you have to do is say the word.¡±
The door closed, and I stood there, his words ringing in my ears. As I looked around my shop, I thought about his insistence, his pressure, his probing gaze. This wasn¡¯t just about defending the village. It was about control.
But I wasn¡¯t about to let that happen.
I glanced toward the shadows where Tianyi hid, a fierce resolve settling over me. This wasn¡¯t just about a decision for the village.
As the door closed behind Wei Long, I stood still, breathing deeply, willing the frustration and anger out of my system. I couldn¡¯t afford for those emotions to cloud my mind or sway my judgment. Instead, I channeled them, letting each breath calm me further, refining my resolve into something sharp and focused. Wei Long had given me a few days¡ªevery second of which I intended to use.
I could confront Wei Long, but that would only give him an opening to twist the story. And even if I showed damning evidence, what good would it do? It''d probably even bring greater danger upon the village.
No, for this, I need allies and witnesses.
I grabbed a brush and parchment, continuing the half-written letter I had made for the Verdant Lotus sect.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.
¡°It¡¯s time to call in some favors.¡±
By the time I finished writing, the ink had barely dried, and the sky outside was still cloaked in pre-dawn darkness. I knew I wouldn''t find rest even if I tried, so I gathered my things, tucking the letters securely into my satchel.
"I''ll be back." I murmured to Tianyi and Windy.
The butterfly humanoid looked at me with unblinking eyes and a small nod. The serpent cradled in her lap continued to sleep, blissfully unaware of me.
Stepping out into the crisp morning air, I felt the chill nip at my cheeks. The village was silent, save for the distant hoot of an owl and the gentle rustling of leaves.
The path to the Azure Silk Trading Company''s outpost was familiar, though in the dim light, the surroundings seemed shrouded in an almost dreamlike stillness.
The trading company''s building came into view, a sturdy structure of dark wood and slate tiles, designed to withstand the elements and the passage of time. Lanterns hung at the corners of the building, their soft glow illuminating the frost-covered ground. Wagons were stationed neatly to the side, their wheels locked and tarps secured, waiting for deliveries and shipments.
I hesitated for a moment, guilt twinging at the thought of waking Huan at such an ungodly hour. But my task took precedence. Taking a steadying breath, I walked up the wide wooden steps leading to the main entrance. The double doors were firmly shut, but a small side door was slightly ajar, likely left open for ventilation during the night.
I stepped lightly onto the porch and rapped my knuckles against the wood, the sound sharp against the early morning stillness. "Huan," I called softly, my voice barely above a whisper. There was no response. I knocked a bit louder this time. "Huan, it''s Kai. I''m sorry to disturb you, but this is important."
For a moment, there was silence, and I considered knocking again. Then, I heard the faint creak of footsteps from inside. Moments later, the side door opened a fraction, revealing Huan''s disheveled figure. His hair was tousled, and his eyes squinted upon seeing me.
"Kai?" he murmured groggily, rubbing his face. "What in the heavens are you doing here at this hour?"
I offered him an apologetic smile. "I wouldn''t be here if it wasn''t urgent. I need your help."
He blinked a few times, processing my words, then nodded slowly. "Alright, give me a moment." Disappearing back into the building, he emerged shortly after, now wearing a cloak over his nightclothes. "Come in."
Once we were inside, Huan turned to me, concern evident in his eyes. "What''s going on?"
I took a deep breath, steadying myself.
"I need to send these letters to Crescent Bay City," I said, pulling the neatly sealed envelopes from my satchel and placing them on the table between us. "As fast as possible."
Huan glanced down at the letters, then back at me, his brows furrowing. "To Crescent Bay? That¡¯s no simple trip. It¡¯s a day and a half, minimum, even with our fastest messengers¡ªand that¡¯s assuming no delays. If you want speed, it¡¯ll cost more. They¡¯ll have to travel light, no heavy loads or stops along the way."
"That¡¯s fine," I replied, my voice firm. "Whatever it takes."
Huan''s eyes dropped to the letters again, his hand hesitating over them as though he could divine their contents through the parchment. When he turned them over to read the addressees, his expression shifted. His eyes widened, and he sucked in a breath as though he''d just seen something forbidden.
"Are you¡" He paused, his gaze darting to meet mine. "Kai, are you preparing for war?"
I met his gaze steadily, the flickering light of the lantern casting shadows across the room. "To an extent," I said, my voice quiet but resolute. "These aren¡¯t letters for pleasantries. I need these delivered without fail."
Huan nodded slowly, his face pale. He placed the letters back on the table, his hand lingering as though reluctant to part with them. "You know what this could mean, don¡¯t you? If the wrong people catch wind of this¡" He trailed off, glancing around as though the shadows might be listening.
"That¡¯s why it¡¯s crucial no one from Narrow Stone Peak hears about this," I said, leaning forward. My voice dropped to a low, urgent tone. "They¡¯re not here to help the village, Huan. Their true intentions run deeper, and I need to be ready when they reveal themselves."
He swallowed hard, nodding again. "I understand. You¡¯ve always had the village¡¯s best interests at heart, Kai. But this¡ it¡¯s risky."
"Riskier than letting them sink their claws into Gentle Wind Village unchecked?" I countered. "This is the only way, Huan. Trust me."
He studied me for a moment, then sighed heavily. "Alright. I¡¯ll make it happen. Our fastest messenger will leave within the hour. But¡" He hesitated, lowering his voice further. "I hope you know what you''re doing."
I forced a small smile. "I do. And thank you, Huan. You¡¯re doing more for this village than most will ever know."
Huan picked up the letters with both hands, as though they were made of carved jade. "I¡¯ll see to it personally," he said. "And¡ take care of yourself."
With that, he disappeared into the back of the building, leaving me alone with my thoughts and the faint flicker of the lantern¡¯s flame.
I stepped out into the cool morning air, the first hints of dawn creeping over the horizon. My breath puffed in the chill, my mind racing with possibilities and contingencies. This was just the first step, but it was a necessary one.
As I approached the Soaring Swallow Tea House, its windows were dark, the faint scent of last night¡¯s revelry lingering in the air. The Narrow Stone Peak disciples were likely still deep in sleep, blissfully unaware of the storm brewing around them.
I passed quickly, my steps careful and measured to avoid the crunch of snow that might disturb the silence. The tea house loomed like a sleeping beast, its presence a constant weight on my mind. Soon enough, I knew I¡¯d have to face what lay within.
My thoughts drifted instead to Wang Jun and Lan-Yin. Elder Ming¡¯s morning practice would be starting soon, and if I knew those two, they¡¯d already be stirring, preparing themselves for the day¡¯s lessons. And afterward, they¡¯d go about their day: Wang Jun pounding away at the forge, and Lan-Yin balancing trays and tea kettles with an effortless grace.
Wang Jun¡¯s growth had been remarkable. He¡¯d learned to integrate the discipline and precision of martial arts into his blacksmithing. I remembered his words, how his blades had become sharper, more durable, almost as if his qi found its way into the steel, ever since he started training with Elder Ming.
Lan-Yin, on the other hand, had blossomed in her own way. Her improved physique and refined constitution allowed her to shoulder the heavy burdens of running the tea house with ease. Where once her parents had carried the weight of decades of service, she now stepped in, taking over long shifts with ease.
They were proof that this village wasn¡¯t just a collection of homes, it was a community of talents, each finding their path and strengthening the whole.
I couldn¡¯t let them down. Not now, when the stakes had risen so high.
A faint gust of wind stirred the stillness, and I quickened my pace.
It wasn¡¯t long before I reached Elder Ming¡¯s home, the modest structure nestled near the village square. The faintest trace of smoke curled from the chimney, a sign that he was likely awake, but I didn¡¯t dare disturb him directly. Instead, I withdrew a carefully folded letter from my satchel. It was bound with simple twine.
I glanced around, ensuring the area was still and empty, before stepping into the courtyard. Kneeling, I placed the letter just inside the gate, tucking it securely against a stone where he¡¯d be certain to see it. As I stood, I let my gaze linger on the house for a moment, imagining the reaction this letter would evoke.
In the letter, I explained the situation succinctly; Narrow Stone Peak was involved. They were behind the destruction of the garden and perhaps more. But I urged Elder Ming not to act. Not yet.
I promised that I had a plan and that the truth would be revealed in due time. I asked him to share the contents of the letter with Wang Jun and Lan-Yin, as I knew they¡¯d press for answers soon enough. They deserved to know, even if I wasn¡¯t ready to confront the disciples just yet.
Satisfied, I turned and slipped back into the shadows, retracing my steps toward my shop. The dawn was beginning to break, casting a faint golden hue over the village. Yet the beauty of the morning was lost on me as my thoughts swirled with what lay ahead.
When I arrived at my shop, I halted in the garden¡ªor what was left of it. Despite the effort my friends and I had poured into clearing the debris, the phantom image of its destruction still loomed in my mind. Crushed plants, overturned soil, shattered pots¡ªmy life¡¯s work reduced to chaos. My hands clenched into fists, and for a moment, the weight of it threatened to crush me.
But I took a deep breath, forcing my hands to unclench. This was no longer a matter that could be solved with words or peaceful negotiations.
This was my home. My sanctuary. My responsibility.
And I would not let Narrow Stone Peak destroy it.
I turned toward the shop, with Tianyi and Windy waiting patiently by the door.
From here on out, my plans would leave no room for failure.
145. Moving in Silence
Days passed in a blur of preparations, every hour spent honing my plan. I moved deliberately, staying under the radar while making sure everything was set.
Despite everything, I maintained the shop. Supplies were scarce, and even with my storage of dried herbs and extracted essences, it wouldn¡¯t last forever.
Still, the shop remained open. People stopped by, not to buy anything, but to offer their support in the ways they could. Mrs. Wang brought over a steaming pot of stew one morning, pressing it into my hands before I could protest.
Others dropped off small tokens; a basket of eggs, a bundle of firewood, even a loaf of freshly baked bread. Some stayed to chat, like Xiao Bao and the other children. It was both heartwarming and humbling, but it also served as a constant reminder of why I couldn¡¯t fail.
But as Wei Long promised, he quietly left me alone, allowing me to work in peace.
As I expected, Lan-Yin and Wang Jun were among those who stopped by, though their visits were far from casual. They didn¡¯t bother with pretense, each of them entering the shop with an air of determination that left no room for pleasantries.
Lan-Yin leaned against the counter, her arms crossed as she fixed me with a pointed look. ¡°So, are you going to tell us what¡¯s going on, or are we supposed to keep pretending nothing¡¯s wrong?¡±
Wang Jun stood nearby, his expression softer but no less concerned. ¡°Lan-Yin¡¯s right. We¡¯re not blind. You¡¯ve been avoiding us, and it¡¯s obvious you¡¯re planning something. Why not just tell us?¡±
I met their gazes, doing my best to appear calm. ¡°I¡¯m biding my time,¡± I said simply, shrugging as though it were nothing. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about. When the time is right, I¡¯ll explain everything.¡±
Lan-Yin¡¯s eyes narrowed, clearly unsatisfied with my answer. ¡°Biding your time for what? Kai, we¡¯re your friends. If something¡¯s happening, we can help. You don¡¯t have to do this alone.¡±
Wang Jun nodded in agreement. ¡°Whatever it is, we¡¯re with you. You know that, right?¡±
Their sincerity was almost enough to make me break. Almost. But I couldn¡¯t risk involving them¡ªnot until I was certain my plan would work. The less they knew, the safer they¡¯d be.
¡°I appreciate it, really,¡± I said, forcing a small smile. ¡°But this is something I need to handle myself. Trust me, okay?¡±
Lan-Yin looked like she wanted to argue, but Wang Jun placed a hand on her shoulder, shaking his head. ¡°Fine,¡± she said reluctantly, pushing off the counter. ¡°But don¡¯t think you¡¯re getting away with this forever. We¡¯ll be here when you¡¯re ready to talk.¡±
Without Elder Ming¡¯s morning training, I was forced to compensate by running through the drills on my own and visualizing them within the Memory Palace technique, never straying further than the perimeter of my garden.
With Wei Long potentially aware of Tianyi¡¯s presence, I couldn¡¯t leave my home unattended.
In the depths of my Memory Palace, I conjured the Five Fists and Wei Long. The process was painstaking, drawing from every scrap of observation I had of their techniques, their mannerisms, their strengths and weaknesses.
The Five Fists appeared first, their forms solidifying with every detail I could recall. Their brute force and tendency to favor grapples with overpowering moves stood at the forefront.
I started slow, rehearsing counters to their basic maneuvers. How they¡¯d lunge for a grapple, or their aggressive barrages that forced me to parry and evade, my own movements calculated to exploit the slightest gap in their rhythm. Each sequence played out in vivid detail, their movements sharp and deliberate, as though they were truly alive.
But it wasn¡¯t enough. The Five Fists were third-class disciples¡ªskilled, but far from the true danger.
With a deep breath, I let my imagination stretch, summoning a figure I¡¯d never seen in action. Wei Long.
His form was hazy at first, an outline more than a man, but as I forced my mind to work, he began to take shape. I started with his demeanor. The way he carried himself, always calm, always calculating. I layered on what I knew of their style. Then I added the small tells I¡¯d observed in our conversations; the way his stance shifted when he stood, balanced but ready, or the way his gaze lingered on people¡¯s weak points.
I pushed my imagination further, combining what I¡¯d seen from the Five Fists with the refinement of a first-class disciple. Where their grapples were predictable, Wei Long¡¯s were fluid, adaptable. Where their strikes left themselves open, Wei Long¡¯s were precise, each one part of a larger strategy to corner and dismantle his opponent. I blended the Five Fists with shades of past opponents¡ªLan Sheng, Feng Wu, Ping Hai¡ªto fully visualize the strength and technique of a first-class disciple.
The sparring began, and it was brutal. In my Memory Palace, Wei Long struck with a speed and ferocity that forced me to adapt on the fly. He didn¡¯t react to my moves¡ªhe anticipated them, countering before I could finish an attack. My strikes met empty air, and when I tried to evade, his grip found me anyway, locking me into a grapple that ended with me slammed into the ground.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.
Each defeat brought frustration, but also clarity. I replayed the scenarios, adjusting my movements, my timing. If he reached for a grapple, I visualized myself striking at his wrist, redirecting his momentum to create an opening. When his strikes came too fast to counter, I imagined myself retreating, using the environment¡ªbroken terrain, uneven footing¡ªto slow him down.
And still, he won every single time.
But this wasn¡¯t about victory, not yet. It was about learning. Understanding. Each simulated fight sharpened my instincts, taught me to think faster, react smarter. It was a process of chipping away at the unknown, carving out a path forward.
I knew this wouldn¡¯t be enough. A Memory Palace visualization was no substitute for the real thing. The Wei Long I fought was a construct of my imagination, not the man himself. He would be faster, stronger, and far more cunning than anything I could predict. But it was a start. A step forward in the right direction.
By the time I pulled myself out of the Memory Palace, the sun was dipping low in the sky, painting the remnants of my garden in hues of gold and orange. My body ached from hours of drills, and my mind was exhausted from the intensity of my visualizations. But beneath the fatigue was a quiet determination.
Wei Long and the Five Fists wouldn¡¯t be taken down by brute strength or raw talent. But with preparation, precision, and just enough unpredictability, I might stand a chance.
And then, early one afternoon, as I was preparing to head out, a familiar voice greeted me at the door.
Li Wei shifted slightly, scratching the back of his head as he met my gaze, his expression a bit stilted, as if he were carefully choosing his words. "So... the greenhouse is done," he said, his tone direct but with a quiet sense of pride. "Since the structure wasn¡¯t hit, we finished on time."
¡°I owe you and your father. What¡¯s the total? I know I¡¯ve only paid for materials, and you said you''ll determine the pay once it was complete.¡±''
¡°No, uh, no need. It¡¯s fine. You don¡¯t... have to pay.¡± He stumbled over his words a little, and I could see he was uncomfortable. ¡°You should use the money on the garden. Getting it back on track. It¡¯d be better that way.¡±
I chuckled, trying again. ¡°Come on, Li Wei. I can more than afford it. And you earned it, no question.¡±
"The work was good. I liked doing it.¡± He paused, glancing up briefly. ¡°It helped me gain a few levels in Harmonic Carpentry. Better than money, anyway. Think of it as paying my debt to you.¡±
"Debt?" I barked out a laugh. "At what point have you ever owed me?"
Li Wei shifted uncomfortably, his gaze flicking to the floor. "You¡ probably don¡¯t remember,¡± he muttered, almost as if he were embarrassed. He looked up, forcing himself to continue, though his words came out haltingly. ¡°It was years ago. I got really sick, fever was bad, thought I wouldn¡¯t¡ make it.¡± He scratched his head, eyes darting to the side as if avoiding the intensity of the memory. ¡°You came over and helped. Brought all these herbs, kept trying things out. Didn¡¯t ask for anything¡ except maybe help with your garden when the fences need to be fixed.¡±
I blinked, the memory slowly resurfacing. I hadn¡¯t thought about it in years. It was just part of those early days, back when I was still figuring out how to fill the role of village herbalist. Back then, I¡¯d taken on almost every case, desperate to learn, terrified of making a mistake after my parents had passed. When Li Wei had fallen sick, I¡¯d been far from confident, and I¡¯d used up nearly all my herbs trying different remedies.
¡°Li Wei,¡± I said, my voice softer, remembering. ¡°I¡ I just wanted to help. I didn¡¯t want anyone else in the village to lose family like I did. Think nothing of it.¡±
He nodded, glancing down. ¡°How could I? I wouldn''t be here right now if it weren''t for you. So, I¡¯m¡ paying it back, I guess.¡± He shrugged, his voice almost too casual. ¡°Besides, now you can use the money for new seeds or plants. It¡¯s better.¡±
A warmth spread through me, something grounding yet humbling. It was easy to forget the impact of those small gestures from so long ago, but here it was, circling back in a way I hadn¡¯t expected. I smiled, clapping him gently on the shoulder. ¡°Thank you, Li Wei. But you¡¯re still getting those energy elixirs, whether you want them or not.¡±
A small, awkward grin tugged at his lips. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t say no to that.¡± He paused, then added with more confidence, ¡°But I¡¯d rather you get the garden back up first.¡±
The quiet determination in his voice strengthened my resolve. This village wasn¡¯t just a place to live; it was a community that looked out for each other, even when they didn¡¯t have to.
And now, I knew exactly what I had to protect.
¡°Well,¡± Li Wei said, shifting his weight, ¡°what¡¯s first?¡±
I straightened, feeling the focus return. ¡°Not planting,¡± I said, my voice steady. ¡°There¡¯s something I need to take care of first.¡±
Li Wei gave me a small nod, his gaze lingering on me for a moment. I could see the question there, curiosity tempered by a quiet respect. But, true to his usual self, he didn¡¯t push, merely offered a brief, ¡°Let me know if you need help,¡± before he turned and made his way down the path.
As his figure disappeared around the corner, I glanced back at the greenhouse, appreciating the sturdy, elegant structure. It was beautiful. An achievement that would nurture the future of my garden. And it only deepened my resolve to protect this village and everyone in it.
I stepped back into my house, closing the door quietly behind me. I¡¯d made my preparations, but seeing that greenhouse completed reminded me of the responsibility I had.
It was time to act.
Pulling open a small drawer beneath my workbench, I retrieved five vials of a viscous liquid, carefully sealed and labeled, as well as two pills I¡¯d prepared. I held each one in my hand for a moment, mentally reviewing their effects, their timing, every contingency I¡¯d planned for. This would need precision.
¡°Tianyi, Windy,¡± I called out, though I knew they were probably hiding or resting somewhere in the shadows of the house. ¡°We¡¯ll wait until nightfall to make our move.¡±
I tucked the vials into my satchel, ensuring they were secure. Tonight, I¡¯d have to take my plans straight to the heart of the matter.
Narrow Stone Peak was going to get a response they wouldn¡¯t expect.
The evening passed slowly, each hour marked by a quiet tension as I went over my strategy one last time. Finally, as the last sliver of daylight faded from the sky, I made my way to the Soaring Swallow Tea House.
As I stood in front of the door, I swallowed the two pills with a single gulp. They settled like a quiet pulse in my bloodstream, sharpening my senses and steadying my breath. Even my heartbeat felt measured, each beat a reminder of the control I needed tonight. No missteps.
I pushed the doors open.
The air was thick with the sounds of laughter and the clinking of cups as I entered. Only a few of the villagers were present. They quieted upon seeing me.
I spotted the Five Fists and Wei Long gathered at their usual table, already well into their meal, exchanging stories and toasts as if they hadn¡¯t a care in the world.
I took a slow breath, steadying myself before moving forward with practiced calm. As I approached their table, Lan-Yin noticed me first, her eyes widening slightly as I gave her a nod.
¡°Lan-Yin,¡± I said with a warm smile, loud enough for the Five Fists to hear, ¡°Please serve them some of your best wine. I¡¯ll cover it.¡±
Her brows furrowed slightly, the question clear in her eyes, but she nodded, going to fetch the bottles.
I took a cup as soon as she returned, raising it high.
¡°I¡¯ve come to a decision after these past few days. I¡¯ve seen your dedication and persistence, and¡ I¡¯m moved. If Narrow Stone Peak is so keen to guard Gentle Wind Village, then I¡¯d be honored to celebrate such a commitment.¡±
Silence fell over the table as the disciples exchanged surprised glances, Wei Long watching me with a guarded expression, as though trying to decipher my intentions.
¡°Let¡¯s toast to a new era for Gentle Wind Village,¡± I added, gesturing to Lan-Yin to fill everyone¡¯s cups.
The disciples raised their cups in a tentative toast and I mirrored their gesture, feeling the weight of my own plans solidify.
As I raised my cup to toast, I caught Wei Long¡¯s gaze. His eyes narrowed, suspicion flickering beneath his polite smile. He was trying to read me, to pick apart my words for hidden meanings. I met his gaze with a calm I didn¡¯t fully feel, letting the silence stretch just a moment too long before I took a deliberate sip of my drink.
146. Drinking Games and Hidden Aims
I downed another cup, savoring the taste as it spread warmth through my chest, helping to smooth out the tension that prickled along my spine. I caught Gu Bei¡¯s eye, raised my cup in a cheerful toast, and clinked it against his. He smirked, clearly amused, but Wei Long¡¯s sharp gaze stayed fixed on me, observing with a calculating intensity that didn¡¯t waver. I felt his eyes studying every shift in my expression, every movement, as though he were peeling back my words, layer by layer.
¡°So,¡± Wei Long began, his tone casual but edged with something keener, ¡°what brought on this change of heart? Last we spoke, you seemed reluctant. Has something... happened since then?¡±
Feigning a thoughtful pause, I poured myself another cup, letting the silence drag out just long enough to seem genuine. I raised the cup in salute to Wei Long before taking a slow, deliberate sip, then set it down with a bright, easy smile despite the dampening on my back.
¡°Well, I suppose you could say I¡¯ve been a little¡ rattled. This break-in shook me up more than I expected. Just when I thought things had settled, someone comes along to tear it all apart.¡± I chuckled, leaning back and shrugging with a bit of exaggerated exasperation. ¡°And I realized I might have been stubborn. It¡¯s not easy admitting you need help.¡±
Wei Long¡¯s eyes narrowed, but he let me continue, his interest piqued.
¡°It¡¯s strange, really,¡± I said, raising the next cup and clinking it lightly with another member of the Five Fists adjacent to me. ¡°I thought I could manage it on my own, but after everything, well¡ I suppose the events at the Verdant Lotus Sect only added to it.¡±
I glanced around, catching a few curious glances from the Five Fists as I took another sip. I made sure to let the words come out casually as if it were just an offhand detail.
¡°Oh?¡± Wei Long tilted his head, his smirk fading into a look of intrigue. ¡°What events, if you don¡¯t mind sharing?¡±
I set down my cup and leaned forward, putting on a rueful smile. ¡°I went to the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet, you know? It''s where I had my run-in with these guys. I thought getting in as a sponsored contestant might open some doors, and maybe secure me a position as an official member of the Verdant Lotus Sect. But¡ they didn¡¯t want me. Said I was too old.¡± I let a hint of bitterness seep into my tone, shaking my head slowly. ¡°Imagine that. Too old. As if all that matters is a number.¡±
One of the disciples at the table muttered under his breath, shaking his head as though commiserating with me. Wei Long, however, continued to study me, his expression caught somewhere between sympathy and suspicion.
¡°Of course,¡± I continued, brightening a bit, ¡°you all don¡¯t seem so narrow-minded.¡± I lifted my cup again, casting an appreciative look at Wei Long. ¡°It¡¯s refreshing to meet a sect that can see beyond age and acknowledges potential where it lies. The fact you''re extending an offer of protection when they didn''t is also telling.¡±
"That''s right! Narrow Stone Peak doesn''t discriminate!"
Gu Bei raised his cup to that, and a few of the others followed suit, nodding along with murmurs of agreement. Wei Long, however, kept his eyes on me, his expression thoughtful as he took a slow sip from his own drink.
¡°A practical outlook,¡± I added, leaning back again, crossing my arms casually. ¡°The Verdant Lotus Sect is all well and good, but they¡¯re rigid. Bound by old customs, as you all know. A place like Narrow Stone Peak seems to value more than just pedigree or youthful promise.¡± I allowed my gaze to drift over the disciples, as if including them all in my praise.
Wei Long¡¯s lips twitched into a faint smile, and he inclined his head slightly, acknowledging the compliment, but his eyes still hadn¡¯t left mine.
¡°Interesting,¡± he murmured. ¡°And here I thought you¡¯d have more loyalty to the Verdant Lotus Sect, considering your history. It seems ridiculous they''d let a talent like you slip through.¡±
I let out a light laugh, brushing the comment off with a wave of my hand. ¡°Oh, I wouldn¡¯t say I resent the Verdant Lotus Sect for that. They have their strengths, of course, and I respect them for it. But let¡¯s just say¡ I¡¯m interested in exploring other options now that their door is closed to me.¡±
I shot Gu Bei a sly grin. ¡°After all, I might need stronger training partners to get better. If I can already beat you, I''d ask Wei Long to trade pointers with me instead.¡±
Gu Bei scoffed, his cheeks coloring slightly. ¡°Hold your own? You caught me off guard, that¡¯s all. I was holding back.¡±
¡°Oh, sure you were,¡± I replied, grinning as I nudged his shoulder. The table broke into laughter, the tension softening a bit as the disciples joined in, enjoying the playful back-and-forth. Even the first-class disciple¡¯s serious expression relaxed for a moment, his lips curving into an amused smile.
The laughter faded, and Wei Long refocused on me, his gaze as sharp as ever. ¡°So¡ if you¡¯re seriously considering our offer, perhaps we should discuss specific terms. You mentioned training, but how often would you want access to our resources? And in return, what level of commitment¡ª¡±If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.
I held up a hand, cutting him off with a casual wave. ¡°Ah, come on. Let¡¯s leave the details for later, yeah? I¡¯d much rather focus on celebrating tonight than getting bogged down in the fine print. Besides,¡± I added, leaning back with a languid smile, ¡°being the village¡¯s lone protector is a heavy load. I¡¯d prefer to enjoy the idea of a lighter burden for just a little while longer.¡±
Wei Long blinked, surprised by the response, but quickly composed himself. ¡°I suppose I can¡¯t argue with that.¡± He turned to Lan-Yin and raised his hand, signaling for more food. ¡°Then let¡¯s enjoy ourselves properly,¡± he announced, raising his cup in another toast. ¡°To Gentle Wind Village and new alliances.¡±
Lan-Yin appeared moments later with plates piled high with fragrant dishes¡ªsteamed buns, sizzling meat skewers, and bowls of colorful pickled vegetables¡ªall set out in front of us. The Five Fists wasted no time digging in, eagerly toasting to everything from village prosperity to, ironically, their ¡®impeccable reputation.¡¯
Through it all, Wei Long¡¯s attention kept drifting back to me, but I managed to sidestep each of his probing questions, steering the conversation toward more superficial topics. I even teased a couple of the other disciples, laughing and joking as though I didn¡¯t have a plan brewing in the back of my mind.
For the moment, all I had to do was keep this charade going.
Hours passed, and the alcohol continued to flow.
¡°Next thing you know,¡± I continued, gesturing wildly with my hands, ¡°the furnace just starts rolling down the arena! This poor guy had no idea what hit him, just turned around and¡ªbam! I thought I saw his teeth fly out, but it was just the pills he was carrying!¡±
The table erupted into laughter, and I joined in, chuckling harder than I had in weeks. Even Gu Bei slapped the table, eyes watering as he struggled to catch his breath.
Wei Long, though, remained as sober as he had been since the night began, a faint smile playing at his lips but his gaze still piercing. He cleared his throat, standing up with a slight stretch.
¡°Well, it¡¯s been entertaining,¡± he said smoothly, glancing down at his disciples, who were clearly feeling the effects of the evening¡¯s drinks. ¡°But some of us need to keep our wits about us. I trust you will behave yourselves.¡± He looked pointedly at the Five Fists, who by now were slouched over their plates, grinning drowsily. ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to enjoy the night, but tomorrow, we can discuss more specifics. The... protection of Gentle Wind Village should be well-planned.¡±
Feigning disappointment, I reached for another cup. ¡°Wei Long! The night¡¯s still young! Surely you¡¯re not heading off already?¡±
He raised an eyebrow. ¡°Unlike some, I have more to consider than simply feasting,¡± he replied coolly, offering a subtle nod. ¡°Rest well. Tomorrow, then.¡±
I clinked my cup with his, hiding my satisfaction behind a sloppy grin. ¡°Tomorrow it is.¡±
Wei Long made his way out, leaving the Five Fists and me behind. The moment his footsteps faded upstairs, I turned to the disciples, a devilish glint in my eyes. ¡°Alright, gentlemen, how about I show you around a bit? You¡¯re here to help protect the village, so let me take you to the best spots.¡±
The Five Fists looked at each other, then shrugged and nodded, clearly too tipsy to question anything. But first, I excused myself, making a show of staggering toward the counter where Lan-Yin was watching with a frown.
¡°Kai, what are you doing?¡± she whispered urgently as I handed her a handful of coins. "Have you gone insane?"
I dropped the drunken act for just a moment, leaning in close. ¡°Trust me, Lan-Yin. Just keep things as is and pretend everything¡¯s normal.¡±
She hesitated but nodded, watching me with worried eyes. I gave her a quick wink before slipping back into my act, stumbling slightly as I rejoined the disciples and led them toward the door.
¡°Gentlemen!¡± I called cheerfully, heading outside with them in tow. ¡°Tonight, we see the heart of Gentle Wind Village.¡±
Inside, though, my mind was calculating, as I prepared for the next steps of my plan.
We moved through the quiet village, the soft glow of lanterns casting long shadows as I guided the Five Fists toward the outskirts where I resided. I kept up my cheerful, half-drunken facade, gesturing grandly at every corner and tree as if each held some hidden significance. The disciples seemed content, ambling along and laughing among themselves as I shared stories about the villagers as we passed by them.
Soon, we arrived at my home, and I ushered them toward the greenhouse. Its structure gleamed under the moonlight, a sturdy, beautiful reminder of what I¡¯d worked so hard to protect.
¡°This,¡± I said with a sweep of my hand, ¡°is my pride and joy. I''ll fill it with plants for every ailment, every condition. I even have a few that are a little¡ rare.¡± I lowered my voice conspiratorially, winking at them. ¡°If you¡¯re nice to me, maybe I¡¯ll share a cutting or two.¡±
They chuckled, peering into the greenhouse with drunken curiosity. I talked about some of the plants, sharing lighthearted stories about their supposed origins and effects. They laughed and jeered good-naturedly, thoroughly entertained.
As we moved further past the village boundaries, the conversation turned to the break-in.
"You know," I began, slurring slightly for effect, "I can''t believe someone had the guts to break into my garden. Middle of the night, sneaky-like, and they still didn¡¯t take anything useful. Who does that?"
One of the disciples chuckled. ¡°Probably some poor idiot looking for a quick haul and got scared off.¡±
I shook my head dramatically, stopping to turn and face them. ¡°Scared off, huh? Then why destroy the garden? They smashed plants, trampled paths... like they wanted to send a message.¡± I let the words hang in the air for a moment, glancing between them with exaggerated curiosity. ¡°Any of you ever seen something like that before?¡±
Gu Bei, emboldened by the alcohol, snorted. ¡°Happens all the time. You step into the wrong territory, you get what¡¯s coming to you.¡±
I paused, furrowing my brow as if struggling to recall something. ¡°Wei Long mentioned that the intruder used a weapon. He dropped a¡ a¡ what was it?¡± I slurred slightly, scratching my head.
¡°A blade?¡± one of the disciples suggested, filling in the blank.
¡°Ah! Yes!¡± I snapped my fingers, feigning an epiphany. ¡°A blade! What a fool, dropping something so crucial during an escape.¡± I let out a scoffing laugh. ¡°But maybe he panicked, huh?¡±
One of the Five Fists, a bit more loosened by the drink than the others, nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Oh, definitely! Especially when that woman hit him, he must¡¯ve lost his nerve and ran off.¡±
There it was.
Gu Bei groaned, running a hand down his face. ¡°You¡¯re drunk, Wen. Don¡¯t start talking nonsense.¡±
¡°Woman?¡± I asked slowly. ¡°What woman?¡±
The disciple¡¯s face paled as he tried to backtrack, but it was too late. I continued, my tone now icily calm. ¡°And about that blade... Wei Long never actually said there was one. If there was, where would it have gone?¡±
They exchanged panicked glances, their intoxicated stupor vanishing as they struggled to find an answer. Behind them, a soft hiss and rustling filled the silence, and they turned to find themselves face-to-face with Tianyi and Windy, blocking their retreat back to the village.
Tianyi¡¯s wings shimmered ominously in the dim light, her gaze unblinking as she held her ground. Windy coiled beside her, his scales gleaming and his eyes coldly watching the men as they stumbled backward, realizing their way out was cut off.
I stepped forward, all pretense of drunkenness gone, as I folded my arms, looking at each of them in turn.
¡°So,¡± I said quietly, ¡°why don¡¯t we talk a bit more? I¡¯m sure there¡¯s plenty you¡¯d like to tell me.¡±
147. The Thin Line
Gu Bei¡¯s face went pale, his eyes darting around, desperately searching for a way out. ¡°It was just¡ you know¡ a slip of the tongue,¡± he stammered, the words spilling out clumsily. ¡°We¡¯ve all been drinking, and sometimes you say things you don¡¯t mean¡¡±
I stepped closer, letting the threat hang between us. My eyes never left his. ¡°Save it,¡± I said, my voice cold. ¡°I already know what happened. And unless you¡¯d like to spend the next fifteen minutes struggling to breathe, I suggest you start talking.¡±
I pulled out the vials from my sleeve, holding it up in the moonlight. The liquid inside was a sickly, pale yellow, catching the light with an eerie gleam.
¡°Do you feel it yet? The shaky breathing? The rapid beating of your heart?¡± I raised an eyebrow, watching as realization dawned on their faces. ¡°In a few more minutes, that¡¯ll be the least of your problems. Soon, the spasms will start. Your lungs will burn, nausea will take over, and then the vomiting¡ and the blood. It¡¯ll be excruciating. A slow, painful death.¡±
One of them clutched his stomach, breathing heavily, while another stammered.
"You¡ poisoned us? When?"
A flash of panic crossed their faces. They looked at each other, half-believing, half-doubting. Watching them quake under my words, I felt a faint, bitter satisfaction. But it left a sour taste in my mouth.
But the memory of my garden; ruined, trampled underfoot, all for control, for someone else¡¯s gain, reignited the anger within me.
Elder Ming''s warning of the Jianghu was right; righteousness could only go so far. Sometimes, you had to fight fire with fire.
''Was this what I was becoming?''
I pushed the thought aside, but it lingered, shadowing the edges of my satisfaction.
I saw the fear in their eyes; none of them were willing to test me. I gave the vial a little shake, letting the liquid inside slosh ominously. ¡°And before you get any ideas,¡± I continued, ¡°if you try to take this antidote from me, I¡¯ll throw it on the ground. You¡¯d be out of options, left to writhe here until morning. You have my word, as an alchemist.¡±
Their backs pressed against the greenhouse wall, and I could see them cornered, visibly shaken. Tianyi and Windy loomed behind them, each a silent threat in the darkness. Windy let out a low, venomous hiss, and I saw four of the disciples flinch, their eyes wide with a fear that ran deeper than I thought. Whatever it was, I could see the terror plain on their faces.
Gu Bei swallowed hard, his voice cracking as he spoke. ¡°Fine. You win. What¡ what do you want to know?¡±
My fists clenched at my sides. I¡¯d tried to keep my anger in check, but the sight of them, their deceit, their arrogance, it stirred something in me that refused to stay quiet.
¡°You think you can come here, threaten my village, attack my home, and I¡¯ll just let it go?¡± My voice was calm, too calm, every word sharp enough to cut. ¡°I want to know why you sent someone to destroy the greenhouse. I want to know what else you¡¯re hiding, and why the hell you think you can invade this place and control it.¡±
Gu Bei¡¯s face twisted in fear, his mask of bravado cracking as he stammered, ¡°I¡ I don¡¯t know why! We were just following orders. Senior Brother Wei Long told us to chase off Zhao Wen, our Senior Brother who was¡ pretending to be a bandit. Make sure he gets away. That¡¯s all I know.¡±
My eyes narrowed. ¡°And where is this Senior Brother of yours hiding now? What does he look like?¡±
The bald disciple hesitated, glancing desperately at the others for support. They only looked back at him with wide, fearful eyes, equally trapped. He turned back to me, his mouth twitching, clearly struggling with the weight of revealing too much.
I slowly lifted my hand, the vials clinking faintly, my gaze steady. ¡°Last chance. You¡¯re all running out of time.¡±
One of the other disciples couldn¡¯t take it any longer, his face ashen. ¡°He¡¯s staying at the Green Peak Inn! East of here, by the mountain pass leading up to Narrow Stone Peak.¡± The words tumbled out of him in a rush, his voice breaking with desperation. "He has a scar on his upper lip, a-and bushy eyebrows! That''s all we know!"
"...Tianyi?"
She glanced over to Windy, and the two shared a silent conversation as the serpent proceeded to stick his tongue out repeatedly, pointing his head off into the sky. Pointing to the east.
They weren''t lying.
I nodded, letting the silence settle heavily before tossing the vials at their feet. They scrambled to snatch them up, frantically uncorking the antidotes and drinking the contents like men starving for air. The relief in their eyes was fleeting; within moments, their eyelids began to droop. Their bodies swayed, fighting against the ''antidote¡¯s'' sedative effect, before they finally slumped to the ground, unconscious in a scattered heap.
I took a long, controlled breath, taking in the scene before me. Zhao Wen. The final, missing link in this conspiracy.
With a final glance at the slumbering disciples, I turned to Tianyi.
"Help me put them on the cart."
One by one, I lugged each of the men onto the cart. She stared at them for a moment too long, as if inspecting them.
"These men..."
"No, they''re not dead." I waved her off, guessing what she was about to ask. "Fed them a sleeping aid. They''ll be out for the next day, minimum."
She shook her head. "No, I recognize them. They''re the ones from the... city. The ones who hurt you. Now they''re here."
Tianyi¡¯s wings shimmered, and she cocked her head, her expression turning oddly detached.
¡°Should I kill them?¡±
Her question hung in the air, and for a moment, it was like a bucket of ice water thrown over my rage. Kill them? Even in the haze of anger, the word jarred me, sank into me in a way I didn¡¯t want to admit. I¡¯d come this far, but¡ had it really come to that?
¡°No,¡± I said, and even as the words left my mouth, the doubt gnawed at me. How far was I willing to go to protect my home? What lines was I willing to cross? I¡¯d thought I knew, but each step down this path left me wondering who I¡¯d be at the end. "It''ll make things worse for us."The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.
She shrugged, unbothered. ¡°Then¡ on the cart, as you said.¡±
Once we¡¯d loaded the unconscious disciples, I made my way back to the Soaring Swallow with the cart in tow.
When Lan-Yin spotted me and the limp bodies of the disciples, she immediately walked over, arching an eyebrow.
¡°They had a bit too much to drink,¡± I explained with a casual shrug. ¡°They¡¯ll sleep it off here. Mind watching them until the morning?¡±
Her expression shifted from surprise to suspicion as her gaze swept over the men, and then back to me. ¡°Kai Liu, tell me you didn¡¯t slip something into their drinks. I swear, if you poisoned our alcohol supply without telling me, I¡¯m banning you from my tea house for life. And how aren''t you drunk? You drank half your bodyweight in alcohol keeping up with these oafs.¡±
I held up my hands. ¡°Swallowed a couple of pills with arrowroot and ginkgo leaf extract before I started; nothing short of Master Qiang''s rice wine in a barrel could get me drunk right now. And it¡¯s not poison, Lan-Yin. Just a little lie. I told them they¡¯d been poisoned, and they believed me. Desperation does the trick sometimes.¡±
The Five Fists didn''t look like the smartest or bravest. Tricking them like this, especially when they were so drunk, was easy to do.
Her narrow-eyed look of suspicion cleared, but her frown didn¡¯t fully disappear. ¡°What are you planning? You''ve been silent this past week, and now this... Is it so hard to let us know when you''re doing something? We can help you, you know.¡±
She¡¯d never seen me like this. Truth be told, I¡¯d never seen myself like this either. Normally, I kept everything in the open. But here I was, keeping my friends in the dark, working in the shadows. I tried to shrug it off with a smile for her, but I could feel the weight of it settling deeper.
I nodded apologetically, glancing down at the slumped disciples. ¡°It''s hard. When they''re patrolling the village so often, monitoring me... That¡¯s why I can¡¯t waste any more time. I need to get things finalized before it''s too late. But don''t worry. I''m not acting alone.¡±
She paused, then leaned in, her voice hushed. ¡°Where are you going?¡±
¡°East,¡± I replied simply, leaving her with a slight nod before slipping away. From my peripheral, I could see her grabbing one of the Five Fists and heaving them over her shoulder, bringing them into the Soaring Swallow.
I moved through the village¡¯s quiet streets until I reached Elder Wen¡¯s stable, where the horses rested with their heads low, puffs of warm breath misting the frigid air. With an apologetic mutter, I led one out, patting its side before mounting it. Tianyi settled herself on my shoulder, while Windy coiled around my arm, his tongue flicking the air in readiness.
With a quiet nudge, the horse surged forward, and we cut a silent path toward the east.
Hours passed under the cover of night, and I pushed the horse harder, determined to reach the Green Peak Inn before dawn. I kept my gaze sharp, my mind set on the plan unfolding ahead of me. The snowfall intensified, collecting on my shoulders and the horse¡¯s mane as we pushed onward.
As the snow thickened around me, muffling the world in cold silence, my thoughts grew louder. Zhao Wen¡¯s name lingered on my tongue like a bitter taste. Was this the right choice?
The frigid air bit through my cloak, each gust of wind carrying a chill that crept under my collar and settled deep into my bones. Tianyi huddled close to my neck, her wings pulled tight against the cold, while Windy coiled a little tighter around my arm, his scales warm against my skin.
The Green Peak Inn finally loomed ahead, a solitary silhouette nestled against the mountainside. It looked desolate in the pale dawn light, its wooden frame frosted over, the windows dark save for a faint glow leaking from within.
The inn was closed.
"So, how am I going about this?" I muttered to myself.
I couldn''t just barge in, after all. I looked at my status.
|
HEAVENLY INTERFACE: KAI LIU
PERK(S):
Interface Manipulator - Allows manipulation of the Heavenly Interface and access to special features.
Dao Pioneer - Grants a unique status softens the rigid thresholds that usually constrain skill acquisition and evolution, allowing for more fluid and spontaneous development of skills and cultivation techniques.
Race: Human
Vitality: Sufficient
PRIMARY
Affinity - Wood
Cultivation Rank: Mortal Realm - Rank 5
QI: Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 5 (...)
MIND: Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 1 (...)
BODY: Mortal Realm - Rank 4 (...)
SKILLS
Spiritual Herbalism - 5 (...)
Nature''s Attunement - 4 (...)
Accelerated Reading - 8 (...)
Cultivation Techniques:
Rooted Banyan Stance - 3 (...)
Crimson Lotus Purification - 1 (...)
Bamboo Reprisal Counter - 1 (...)
Memory Palace Technique - 1 (...)
Refinement Simulation Technique - 1 (...)
Currency:
Technique Token - 1
|
Based on the Five Fists and Tianyi''s information, this Zhao Wen was a second-class disciple. Even after all my training, could I deal with someone of that caliber?
I shook my head. It wasn¡¯t the time to get cold feet.
Dismounting, I guided Elder Wen¡¯s horse to the side and gave it a grateful pat, letting it rest under the shelter of a nearby tree. I took out the Verdant Lotus sect''s charm; the proof of my friendship with them. I''d carried it around as a good luck charm, but tonight...
I gathered myself, tying my hair back in a style that mimicked Feng Wu¡¯s, neater and more disciplined, knowing that for this to work, I needed to look the part.
Taking a deep breath, I strode to the door and knocked, sharply and persistently, until the innkeeper finally answered. His face, flushed from sleep and irritated by the interruption, peered out into the cold, his frown deepening as he took me in.
¡°What is it you want at this hour?¡± he grumbled, rubbing at his eyes.
Adopting a more formal, serious tone, I spoke.
¡°I am... Lan Sheng, disciple of the Verdant Lotus Sect. These two are my companions, and our presence here is a matter of urgency.¡±
The innkeeper¡¯s irritation faltered, but his expression changed to suspicion. ¡°The Verdant Lotus sect?¡±
I held up my token from the Verdant Lotus Sect, the intricately etched lotus catching his attention immediately. The innkeeper¡¯s hesitation flickered, but I saw the faintest nod of recognition in his eyes. He knew what it meant. Even if he doubted my claim, he wouldn¡¯t risk opposing the authority of the Verdant Lotus Sect.
¡°Word has reached us that a dangerous criminal may be hiding in these mountains. He¡¯s posing as a disciple of Narrow Stone Peak, which is likely why he has escaped your notice so far. I ask that you assist us in locating him before more harm is done.¡±
The innkeeper¡¯s eyes flickered toward the shadows inside the building. His hand lingered on the doorframe. ¡°I¡ I don¡¯t know who you¡¯re talking about,¡± he said, the tremor in his voice betraying him. "My inn wouldn''t house any criminals. We''re a reputable establishment."
¡°You¡¯re lying,¡± I said softly, stepping closer. Tianyi¡¯s wings rustled, her presence adding weight to my words. ¡°If you protect him, you¡¯ll be sharing in his crimes. Is that what you want?¡±
The innkeeper squinted, the skepticism still lingering, but he was visibly more unsettled. ¡°... What exactly does this fellow look like?¡±
I nodded, as if expecting the question. ¡°Bushy eyebrows and a scar on his upper lip. He may be visibly injured, walking with a limp.¡±
The innkeeper¡¯s eyes widened briefly. Barely a flicker, but enough for me to catch. I pressed on, speaking with a slight edge of urgency. ¡°This man is wanted for murder and robbery. His presence here puts everyone at risk. Please. Tell me what you know.¡±
His face paled, and he swallowed, eyes darting toward the shadows within the inn. His voice dropped to a whisper.
¡°There is¡ someone."
Zhao Wen lay sprawled on the thin mattress, his breaths shallow and uneven as he stared up at the ceiling. His ribs throbbed with a dull ache, each pulse a reminder of the brutal encounter he hadn¡¯t been prepared for. The image of her eyes; cold, unblinking, and predatory, lingered in his mind, piercing through the haze of his pain. The woman had been unlike anything he¡¯d ever faced.
His Senior Brother¡¯s voice echoed in his mind, calm and unyielding as always:
''Lay low. Burn everything after you read it. Leave nothing for them to trace back to us.''
Zhao Wen scoffed bitterly, his lips curling into a grimace. Lay low. As if lying here, half-broken, could be called anything else.
He turned his head, eyes settling on the small brazier in the corner of the room. The faint embers glowed dimly beneath a layer of ash, barely warming the cold air around him. In those ashes lay the remnants of Wei Long¡¯s last letter; burnt scraps scattered with meticulous care, just as instructed.
He muttered curses under his breath, the bitter taste of resentment rising unbidden. Wei Long always had the perfect plan, the perfect orders. But why did they always seem to leave Zhao Wen as the one doing the dirty work?
"Why hadn''t Senior Brother informed me?"
The orders had been clear and brokered no room for negotiation. Zhao Wen was to wait here, stay hidden, and await further instruction. But waiting was agony. Every creak of the inn¡¯s old wood set his nerves on edge.
Suddenly, a sound broke the silence. Soft footsteps up the stairs, drawing closer, echoing in the quiet of the night. Zhao Wen tensed, the hair on his arms prickling. The steps stopped right outside his door.
His pulse quickened. For a moment, he thought of remaining still, hoping they¡¯d leave. But the silence stretched unbearably, each second pressing down on him until his nerves snapped.
The door exploded inward with a deafening crack, splinters flying in every direction. Zhao Wen¡¯s eyes widened as his worst fears materialized in the doorway. Her. The woman with those piercing eyes, flanked by the serpent and a boy in maroon robes.
No words were spoken. They didn¡¯t need to be.
Zhao Wen threw the blanket forward, a desperate attempt to shield himself as he moved. But before he could take another step, a sharp, tightening pressure coiled around his arm. Serpentine scales glinted in the faint light, wrapping around his wrist like a vice.
Pain blossomed in his side as a fist drove into his ribs, and Zhao Wen¡¯s strangled cry filled the air before the world turned dark.
148. Breaking Point
With Zhao Wen bound and gagged, slumped unconscious against the horse¡¯s side, I mounted up and set out back to the village. My thoughts were a steady hum, all fixed on one purpose. Each passing mile stoked the fire inside me.
My fists gripped the reins even tighter, feeling the weight of the impending confrontation. I had sent letters through the Azure Silk Trading Company, informing Huan to be discrete and fast, but there was no guarantee they''d arrive in time¡ªor at all.
"It''s been three days since I sent the letters," I mused, gazing at the horizon. "If they received them, they should arrive today."
Still, today was the day Narrow Stone Peak would be exposed. Whether they arrive or not.
Hours later, the sky had lightened, casting a thin morning glow over the village square as I entered, Zhao Wen tied behind me like a heavy, irrefutable truth.
Villagers were already stirring, watching me in confusion, faces peeking out of doorways and windows, some beginning to follow as I made my way toward the center of the square.
I pulled the horse to a stop, hopped down, and with one strong tug, dragged Zhao Wen off the horse, dumping him unceremoniously onto the ground. The villagers gasped, inching closer. Some murmured, recognizing his face. Others stared at me, their shock mingling with concern, as they saw the quiet rage on my face.
"Is that my horse?"
I softened my expression, looking at Elder Wen.
"Sorry, Elder Wen. I had to borrow it for an emergency. I''ll make it up to you, I promise. But..." I looked at the small crowd that formed. "I need your help now. Please, wake everyone else up. I''ve caught the culprit who attacked my garden last night."
The murmurs grew louder, and within moments, villagers spread the word, hurrying to rouse the rest. Soon enough, familiar faces started arriving in the square. Lan-Yin and Wang Jun pushed through the growing crowd to stand beside me, their faces marked with both worry and curiosity. Elder Ming appeared soon after, his expression pensive as he took in the scene.
Lan-Yin shot me a questioning look, glancing at the woman standing close behind me, her form both familiar and strange. ¡°Kai, what¡¯s¡ going on? And who¡¯s she?¡±
I turned, my expression softening as I glanced at Tianyi, who stood calmly, her gaze steady as she regarded the villagers. Her long hair shimmered in the dawn light with a bluish tint.
¡°This man,¡± I said, gesturing at the bound Zhao Wen, ¡°is the bandit who attacked my garden.¡±
Gasps and mutters filled the air, but I pressed on, ignoring them. ¡°As for the woman beside me¡ this is Tianyi.¡±
A new wave of murmurs rippled through the villagers. Wang Jun¡¯s eyes widened, and even Elder Ming¡¯s normally composed expression slipped, surprise evident as he took in Tianyi¡¯s new form.
I could see Li Wei peeking out from the crowd, his eyes flitting back and forth between the man on the floor and Tianyi.
¡°She achieved a human form not too long ago,¡± I explained, my tone firm but with a hint of pride. ¡°I had to keep it hidden because of the Narrow Stone Peak cultivators. I couldn¡¯t risk them finding out, and there was never a right moment to discuss it.¡±
Just then, a stir at the edge of the crowd caught my attention. Someone pushed past the villagers, forcing a path through the throng. Wei Long. His face was a mix of confusion and irritation, but as he reached the front of the crowd, his gaze fell on Zhao Wen, bound on the ground. His expression morphed, disbelief flashing to anger, before quickly being suppressed into a cool mask.
He opened his mouth to speak, but I raised a hand, stopping him before he could get a word out.
¡°We all need to hear this,¡± I said, my voice ringing clear. ¡°Zhao Wen, this man who attacked my garden, isn¡¯t just any bandit. He¡¯s one of their own¡ªa Narrow Stone Peak disciple, sent here to intimidate this village into asking for their protection.¡±
The crowd erupted in angry whispers, disbelief laced with shock. Some faces turned accusingly toward Wei Long, who seemed momentarily caught off-guard by the accusation.
He forced a smile, attempting to regain his composure. ¡°This is absurd. You bring an injured man before the village, make wild accusations, and expect everyone to just believe it?¡±
"Then tell me, Wei Long," I said, voice low but hard as steel, "do you truly not know this man? Zhao Wen. Does that name mean nothing to you?"
Wei Long¡¯s smile wavered, but he held his composure. "He could be anyone. A bandit with some skill, maybe, but he¡¯s no disciple of ours. You can¡¯t prove he¡¯s connected to us. We are a righteous sect."
I scoffed, gripping Zhao Wen by the hair and forcing his unconscious face into view for the crowd to see. "Is that so? Well, if he¡¯s just some regular bandit, then there¡¯s no harm in making sure he never attacks anyone else, is there?"Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.
I felt the anger twist inside me, something dark, something I hadn¡¯t felt before.
"Why don¡¯t I just destroy his dantian? Right here. Right now."
The murmurs of the crowd fell into a stunned silence, everyone¡¯s eyes fixed on me. I didn¡¯t look away. My gaze remained locked onto Wei Long, daring him to challenge me.
His face remained calm, but his jaw tightened. "That¡¯s a drastic measure, Kai," he replied, his voice smooth but strained. "Destroying a man¡¯s dantian¡ that¡¯s as good as sentencing him to death. And we don¡¯t even know for sure if this is the man who¡ª"
"I don¡¯t need your confirmation," I cut in. I was done with his games, his lies. "I know he¡¯s the one. Tianyi and Windy tracked him, and they don¡¯t lie." My hand gripped Zhao Wen¡¯s hair tighter, a part of me sickened by the act but refusing to let it show. "And are you saying you don¡¯t trust their judgment? Or mine?"
I could feel Elder Ming¡¯s gaze on me, his eyes shadowed. The silence between us was heavy, but I didn¡¯t back down. I had to show them all that I wasn¡¯t going to be toyed with, that my village and everything I cared about weren¡¯t just pawns in someone else¡¯s scheme.
Wei Long¡¯s expression flickered, a hint of unease betraying his mask of composure. He took a breath, visibly attempting to regain control. "Kai," he began, his voice softer, attempting a conciliatory tone, "think carefully. This man may not even be the one responsible. There¡¯s no clear proof, and you wouldn¡¯t want to harm an innocent person."
"Innocent?" I asked in disbelief. "Don¡¯t insult me. I have nothing to gain from attacking some random man. But I heard the truth, straight from the mouths of the Five Fists. Green Peak Inn, east of the village. How do you think I got the information?"
The first-class disciple bit his lip, closing his eyes tightly.
I leaned forward, the anger clear in my voice, unfiltered and sharp. "So here¡¯s the choice, Wei Long. Either you let me destroy his dantian, ensuring he can¡¯t hurt anyone again, or you admit what he really is¡ªa Narrow Stone Peak disciple sent here on your orders."
His eyes darted around, searching for an escape, but there was none.
I¡¯d backed him into a corner, and I wasn¡¯t about to let him slip out of it. There was no doubt; Wei Long was a sly man. Savvy, just like Elder Jun. The more time I gave him, the more dangerous it became.
"No answer? Don''t worry. I''ll make the choice for you."
"Wai¡ª!"
I rolled Zhao Wen onto his back, my fist tightening, letting the rush of qi fill my arm. I located his dantian, marking the spot with a cold certainty. My fist raised high, I prepared to bring it down, and¡ª
BAM!
A deafening crack split the air as flesh met flesh.
The world turned upside down, and I flew backward, crashing into the crowd with a force that jarred every bone in my body. Tianyi caught me in mid-air, killing some of my momentum.
Through blurred vision, I saw Wei Long standing tall, his arm still outstretched, the faint hum of qi dissipating from his fist as he stood over Zhao Wen protectively.
I saw Windy, a blur of white and blue wrapped around Wei Long¡¯s arm in a vice grip. Wei Long¡¯s gaze flicked to Windy, irritation flashing across his face as he flexed his arm, tensing against the snake¡¯s crushing grip. His arm bulged, muscles straining as he moved to grab Windy, but the serpent slipped free with a quick twist, retreating with a venomous hiss, his scales flashing under the morning light.
Wei Long stood before me, his face unreadable but for the tight line of his jaw. The speed, the power of his punch... it had all happened in a single breath. And now he was there, unshaken, while I was reeling.
But the damage was done.
By protecting Zhao Wen and attacking me, he confirmed my suspicions.
The man''s eyes darkened as he stood there, realizing the implications of his actions, same as I did.
I got up, heart hammering in my chest.
"If this isn''t proof, what is? Admit it! Admit you tried to use my village as your foothold!"
My fists shook as I stared Wei Long down, daring him to deny it again.
A small, high-pitched voice pierced the tension like a sharp knife. ¡°Bully!¡±
All heads turned to the source. Standing near the edge of the crowd, his tiny frame trembling but his voice unwavering, was Xiao Bao. His face was flushed with defiance, his small fists clenched tightly at his sides.
¡°You think you can scare us? My dad says we don¡¯t need you!¡± Xiao Bao shouted. "And... and your hair is stupid!"
The crowd murmured, a ripple of agreement spreading through the villagers. Wei Long¡¯s mask of composure cracked for a fraction of a second, his eyes narrowing at the boy.
¡°Out of the mouths of babes, huh?¡± Master Qiang¡¯s deep, booming voice followed, drawing all eyes to the blacksmith as he stepped forward, his broad shoulders like a wall of iron. ¡°I always knew there was something off about you lot. Too much talk about protection, not enough action when it mattered. If you were really here to help, you wouldn¡¯t be standing there trying to worm your way out of this.¡±
The crowd stirred again, louder now.
¡°That¡¯s right!¡± Jian Wei, Li Wei¡¯s father, called out, his voice quivering with anger. He stepped forward, pointing an accusatory finger at Wei Long. ¡°You dare come into our village, into our homes, and try to destroy what we¡¯ve built with your schemes? How dare you!¡±
Other voices joined in, growing bolder by the second.
¡°You think we¡¯re weak because we¡¯re a small village?¡±
¡°This is our home, and we won¡¯t let you take it!¡±
¡°You call yourselves righteous, but your actions are as rotten as the worst bandits!¡±
Wei Long¡¯s jaw tightened, his eyes darting across the growing crowd, the realization sinking in that the villagers¡¯ anger had reached a boiling point.
The crowd closed in behind me, faces hardening with resolve. Lan-Yin and Wang Jun stepped forward, each of them tense and ready, and even Elder Ming took a step closer, his face lined with a grim determination I¡¯d rarely seen.
Wei Long¡¯s gaze swept over the crowd, assessing the mounting hostility. His eyes narrowed, and his calm mask cracked, revealing a sneer that twisted his face. He lowered his arm, rubbing his wrist where Windy had coiled, then met my gaze with a cold glint in his eyes.
"...Why couldn¡¯t you just hand over this village without a fight?" He asked, his voice slipping into a tone I hadn¡¯t heard before. Rough, biting, a veneer of civility stripped away. "You think you¡¯re a hero? All this, all of it, would¡¯ve been easier if you¡¯d just kept your head down and accepted your place.¡±
"Accepted my place?" I spat, taking a step forward. "My place is here, with the people who trust me. Not under the boot of your sect."
Wei Long¡¯s sneer deepened, his expression darkening further.
"Then you¡¯ve made your choice. All of you have." He cast a scornful glance around at the villagers, who edged back slightly but held firm. "This is where it ends, Kai. I gave you a chance to avoid all this bloodshed. Now, it¡¯s out of my hands."
His threat was plain, raw with the implication of violence, but I didn¡¯t flinch. Behind me, I felt the unwavering presence of my friends and neighbors, the people I¡¯d fought for, protected, and who stood by me now.
Wei Long looked back at me, his voice dropping to a sinister murmur. "You think numbers will help you? You think this is some fairytale where you all charge me, and I just lie down in defeat? I¡¯m a first-class disciple. None of you stand a chance against me."
"Then why don¡¯t you try it?" Lan-Yin challenged.
He laughed, cold and mirthless. "Go ahead. Raise your fists, your little tricks and your anger." His tone was dripping with scorn, but his eyes darted to the crowd, assessing the faces staring back at him with fierce determination. "Even if you win here, even if you somehow manage to bring me down, nothing changes. Narrow Stone Peak has already taken notice of this place. You¡¯ve barely begun to grasp what you¡¯re up against. Hundreds of disciples¡ªskilled, ruthless, and loyal. They¡¯ll descend on this village like a storm, and all your unity will crumble beneath their might. You can¡¯t escape the sect¡¯s reach."
His words cast a bleak shadow over the square, cooling the fighting spirit we had mustered.
149. Roots of Resistance
The crowd was a tense, pulsing mass of fear and determination, everyone holding their breath as we faced down Wei Long. His mocking smile was infuriating, that smug tilt of his head as he scanned the crowd, sneering.
Each second felt like an eternity. Had my messages been in vain? Was I foolish to pin my hopes on a distant possibility?
"What¡¯s the matter?" he drawled, eyes sweeping over us with mocking disdain. "Where¡¯s all that fighting spirit now? You¡¯ve come this far. Why don¡¯t you take the last step?"
His fingers flexed, and he began to shift forward, his intentions clear in every movement.
A sudden gust shot past me as Tianyi launched forward, her foot swinging up with a speed that sliced the air. The impact sent a burst of wind spiraling out, making my hair whip wildly. But Wei Long caught her kick, his hand clamping down like a vice.
"Wrong move."
Without a second thought, I leapt into action, sprinting toward him and swinging my fist. He saw me coming, his lips curling into a smirk as he twisted to block, but then there was a flash of white and blue. Windy sprang from behind, his sleek body twisting through the air, wrapping around Wei Long¡¯s eyes like a makeshift blindfold and coiling around his thick neck.
Wei Long¡¯s smirk vanished, replaced by a flash of irritation. He threw Tianyi at me and I caught her mid-air, setting her carefully down. I turned back to see Wei Long¡¯s hands clawing at Windy, trying to pull the snake off his face.
¡°Stay back!¡± I shouted to the villagers as they began to surge forward, Lan-Yin and Wang Jun looking ready to join the fight. ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous. Just hold on a little longer.¡±
I turned my gaze back to Wei Long, my heart hammering. I¡¯d seen the strength of second-class disciples like Lan Sheng and Feng Wu; I knew what it took to even go toe-to-toe with them. But Wei Long was on another level, a first-class disciple. A sect''s most elite force.
This was going to be brutal.
Windy hissed in pain, as the man gripped his body with a force that crushed his scales.
I didn¡¯t wait, pressing the advantage. I darted forward with another punch, aiming for his ribs. Infusing my fist with every ounce of qi I could muster, I drove it into his side.
My fist connected, the force rippling outward¡ only to meet an unyielding wall. It was like striking a boulder. There was no give, no recoil¡ªnothing.
With Windy still latched around his head, Wei Long¡¯s hand shot out and clamped down on my shoulder like an iron vice. His grip tightened, fingers digging painfully into my skin as he reared back, making visible eye contact with me through the gap in between Windy''s coils. I barely had time to brace myself as his forehead came crashing down in a devastating headbutt.
ROOTED BANYAN STANCE!
My stance was imperfect, diminishing the effectiveness of my technique. The impact rattled my skull, sending stars across my vision. My balance wavered, and I stumbled back, disoriented, but I forced myself to stay upright, shaking off the daze as fast as I could.
Windy fell to the side, uncoiling as the damage became too much.
Wei Long laughed, his gaze sharp and mocking. "Is that it?" he sneered, rolling his shoulders as if warming up, his gaze sweeping over the crowd of villagers with a wicked glint. ¡°This is your grand plan? Holding on, waiting for¡ what? Some savior to appear out of thin air?¡± He tilted his head, letting out a cold chuckle. ¡°Do you think I''ll just let you?¡±
He shot forward, eyes glinting with a dangerous intent, his hand reaching for one of the villagers behind him. I saw Lan-Yin stiffen, her fists clenching, and the crowd took a collective step back, but he was too fast for any of them.
I couldn¡¯t let him hurt anyone else. The strategy of waiting, drawing him out¡ªit was gone. There was only one choice left. My feet surged forward, and I funneled my qi into my legs, propelling myself with a burst of speed.
"STOP!"
Wei Long¡¯s arm halted mid-reach, his body twisting with an unnatural fluidity. He turned to face me, and I could see the flex of his muscles as he readied a vicious hook aimed straight for my face. His knuckles came close, so close I could feel the rush of air from the punch.
I veered my head just off-center, his knuckles grazing my cheek, missing by a hair. I capitalized on that instant, swinging my own fist with every ounce of strength I had. My knuckles connected solidly with his jaw, sending a shock of satisfaction up my arm.
His head tilted from the impact, and he slowly straightened, a mocking smile on his face.
My chest tightened with frustration, but Tianyi darted in before I could think of my next move. She launched herself upward, knee cocked and ready, bringing it down with a brutal force aimed at the side of his head. It connected, sending the first-class disciple tumbling off to the side.
"Go! Go!"
I watched Elder Ming evacuate the villagers. I sighed in relief. That would give us some breathing room.
But against him, we needed every advantage we can get.
My limbs grew heavier with every exchange, breaths turning ragged. As brief as it''s been, the mental toll of knowing every blow might be my last was draining.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.
Time was slipping away, and so was my strength.
Wei Long got up, gingerly touching his temple where Tianyi struck.
A thin line of blood streaked down his fingertips as he inspected them. He lifted his hand, showing the drop of blood to us with a dark expression on his face.
¡°All that for a single drop of blood.¡±
He surged forward with a renewed fury. We scrambled, weaving around him, keeping our distance as his attacks lashed out.
We formulated a plan¡ªdisjointed and desperate, borne from instinct rather than any prepped strategy, but a plan nonetheless.
Tianyi took the lead, her form darting in and out of the fray like a blade of wind. She was untouchable, her movements too fluid, too unpredictable for Wei Long to pin down with us supporting her. Her wings shimmered faintly, qi swirling around her as she launched herself into another attack. Her foot connected with Wei Long''s side, a strike aimed to stagger rather than overpower.
I seized the moment, diving in from the opposite side. My fists were slower, my strikes heavier. Each blow was infused with qi, not to cause damage but to draw his attention. I aimed for his arms, his ribs¡ªanywhere I could disrupt his rhythm. I was the distraction, the bait, and I had to play my part perfectly.
Wei Long turned to me, his focus narrowing as he lunged with a sweeping backhand. I braced myself, gritting my teeth as I caught his arm.. Pain erupted, but I held my ground, twisting with the impact to minimize the damage. I stayed upright, forcing a grin onto my face.
"Is that all you''ve got?" I taunted, my voice sharper than I felt.
He snarled, his attention fully on me now, and that was all the opening Tianyi needed. She darted behind him, her wings slicing through the air with a faint hum. With a sharp pivot, she drove her knee into the back of his leg, aiming for the joint. His stance faltered, a split-second shift that gave Windy his chance.
The serpent sprang from the side, his coiled body snapping like a whip. He latched onto Wei Long''s arm, his muscles constricting with incredible force. Wei Long growled, his free hand reaching for Windy, but before he could grab the serpent, Tianyi was on him again.
Her foot slammed into his ribs with a thunderous crack, the force driving him a step back. Windy released his hold, slithering away just as Wei Long''s hand closed on empty air.
"You pests!" Wei Long roared, his aura flaring. His qi erupted in a burst, forcing us all to retreat momentarily. The ground beneath him cracked as his power surged, his gaze burning with fury. "You think this is enough to stop me? I''ll show you the difference between us!"
He feinted toward Tianyi, and in a heartbeat, changed direction, reaching for me. I felt the air shift just as his fingers stretched toward me, and my body froze for an instant, realizing I couldn¡¯t avoid him in time¡ª
A shout rang out, and then a solid mass collided with Wei Long from behind. Wang Jun had tackled him, wrapping his arms around Wei Long in a fierce bear hug. ¡°Now¡¯s your chance!¡± he yelled, his voice strained as he struggled to keep his grip.
Wei Long scoffed, clearly expecting to break free easily. But he stilled, eyes widening in surprise as Wang Jun''s feet dug into the earth.
I didn¡¯t waste a second.
Tianyi darted in beside me, her fists flying in rapid strikes. I went for Wei Long¡¯s vital points, driving my fists into every soft spot I could find.
Amidst the clash, a faint rumble reached my ears¡ªhoofbeats? Or was it just the pounding of my own heart?
Windy slithered down and struck at Wei Long¡¯s ankle, his fangs sinking in to deliver a potent dose of venom.
Wei Long growled, his face twisting with irritation as he fought to shake us off. ¡°Enough of this!¡± With a powerful surge, he wrenched his arms free, breaking Wang Jun¡¯s hold and sending him crashing into the earth with a vicious backhand. He stomped the ground with enough force to send cracks racing outwards, the earth beneath us shuddering and sending us off balance.
My instincts screamed to move, but before I could fully react, his hand darted forward and clamped onto my arm. With a savage twist, he yanked me closer, trapping my forearm in the vice-like grip of his armpit.
It felt as though a fully grown Wind Serpent had coiled around my arm. Pain lanced through my bones, and I grit my teeth to keep from crying out. The pressure was suffocating, as though my entire arm was being ground to dust.
Wei Long didn¡¯t stop there. His fist shot forward, connecting with my ribs in a blow that felt like a boulder smashing into me. The air left my lungs in a choked gasp, my vision flashing white. Before I could recover, another punch followed. My knees buckled, and I struggled to stay upright, the world spinning from the force of his strikes.
¡°You should¡¯ve stayed in your garden, boy,¡± Wei Long growled, his voice a low rumble of menace.
From the corner of my eye, I saw Tianyi streaking toward him, her wings shimmering with concentrated qi. Her strike was aimed at his side, but Wei Long anticipated her move. He released my arm and pivoted, snatching her mid-air with a precision that defied his size.
Despite the pain, I scrounged up every ounce of willpower within me to raise up once more.
¡°LET HER¡ª¡±
I felt his fingers clamp around my neck, cutting off my air in an instant. We both struggled, thrashing in his grip, but his hold was unyielding, the pressure on my throat intensifying. My vision blurred, the world narrowing to the iron grip around my neck.
Is this where I die?
HISS!
Windy struck again, this time wrapping around his arm, constricting fiercely. Wang Jun came in from the side, attempting to wrestle his other arm free, his face contorted with effort.
"Let go of him! You bastard!"
In my struggle, I could see Lan-Yin leaping in, her hands reaching out to jab at his eyes, hoping to force him to release us. But Wei Long¡¯s hold only tightened, his strength monstrous.
My lungs screamed for air as I felt the bruising pain spread across my neck. Black spots danced across my vision. Sounds muffled.
A distant roar¡ªor was it a voice?¡ªpierced the fog encasing my mind. Just as I thought I couldn¡¯t hold on any longer, something struck the first-class disciple''s wrist, forcing him to let me go.
A green bladed fan contrasted to the hazy, muted background.
I fell to the ground, gasping for breath, Tianyi collapsing beside me.
Through the haze of my dimming consciousness, I saw a silhouette dart in, retrieving the bladed fan, forcing Wei Long back.
Support had arrived.
"Feng Wu..!" I said hoarsely.
I tried to speak, to thank him, but the pain in my throat flared as I struggled to catch my breath.
I looked around, seeing a shape approaching in the distance, a shadowed figure atop a horse-drawn wagon. The morning light made it difficult to see, but there was something unmistakable in the posture, the silent confidence of the person guiding it closer.
The Verdant Lotus sect had sent support! They got my message!
Wei Long¡¯s gaze shifted, his mouth curving into a cold sneer as he released Tianyi. His voice was laced with irritation. ¡°And why exactly is the Verdant Lotus Sect interfering here?¡±
¡°Because there¡¯s a matter of injustice to resolve," Feng Wu¡¯s face remained impassive, his eyes steady and sharp. But for a brief second, his gaze flickered towards me, a reassuring smile on his lips.
Despite the chaos, his presence steadied me.
"One concerning a friend.¡±
Wei Long let out a humorless laugh, the sound grating in the tense silence of the square.
¡°This¡ª¡± he gestured around at the village, ¡°this is what you¡¯re risking your necks for? A backwater village and an uppity alchemist? The Verdant Lotus is more arrogant than I thought, to assume they can waste resources here instead of fighting the Silent Moon.¡±
The second-class disciple''s expression didn¡¯t waver. He took another step forward, despite the hostility radiating off of Narrow Stone Peak''s elite. ¡°It''s not a matter of resources. We¡¯re resolving this today.¡±
Wei Long¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°Brave words. But do you really believe you can stand against me?¡±
"Maybe not. But I can."
Before Feng Wu could respond, the wagon creaked closer, coming to a stop beside us. I turned, struggling to focus through my pain, and saw the figure lift his hood.
The man stepped down from the wagon, his eagle-like eyes surveying the scene with a piercing gaze, his silver-grey hair gleaming in the early light. The figure, now clear, was unmistakable. My breath caught as I recognized him. I sent the message as a last resort, as a backup. But to think he would come himself.
¡°Tian Zhan¡¡± Wei Long¡¯s voice wavered, his eyes widening in surprise and, for the first time, genuine fear. He snapped his face towards me in genuine disbelief. But my expression mirrored his.
I never imagined he would personally answer the favor he owed me.
The air seemed to change, as the brute of a man stepped backward for the first time since battle began.
¡°It seems you have quite the situation here, Kai Liu," Tian Zhan said with a smile. "Perhaps a first-class disciple would prefer facing someone of equal standing.¡±
Wei Long¡¯s posture tensed, his bravado faltering as he met Tian Zhan¡¯s sharp gaze.
150. Hope on the Horizon
Tian Zhan strolled forward, each step calculated, like a storm gathering strength. I could feel the tension tightening as Wei Long stood frozen, torn between anger and confusion.
¡°What are you doing here?¡±
But Tian Zhan only gave him a cold glance, dismissive, as if he were an inconvenience rather than an adversary.
¡°You don¡¯t deserve an answer from me,¡± He said coolly. The blatant disregard, dripping with disdain, visibly rattled the Narrow Stone Peak disciple, his face slowly flushing red. And as much as I hated the man, it was almost comical to see him shrink, his rage barely contained in the face of Tian Zhan¡¯s utter confidence. It was a remarkable contrast; Wei Long, built like a bull, fists ready to crush, but visibly holding himself back in front of a man no taller than I was.
I felt the briefest opening and turned to Tianyi. ¡°Are you alright?¡± I whispered, voice low and urgent, reaching out to steady her. My heart twisted at the sight of her, even in the pale morning light.
There were faint, spider-webbed cracks along her neck, each line a reminder of Wei Long¡¯s brutal strength. And all over, those raised lines on her skin now held darkened edges from the blows she¡¯d taken.
She gave me a small nod, trying to brush it off, but I couldn¡¯t help it. I pulled her close, arms wrapping tightly around her.
"I''m sorry. This is my fault.¡± I murmured, the words breaking in my throat. She was tougher than I could ever be, but seeing her like this, almost shattered, brought every hidden fear to the surface. She didn¡¯t say anything, only leaned into the hug, and for a moment, the chaos around us dimmed, replaced by the quiet relief of knowing she was still here.
Windy let out a soft hiss, giving me a soft smack on the arm, clearly affronted.
"And you as well, Windy. Come here."
A loud slap cracked through the air, snapping me from the moment. My head whipped back to the scene in front of us, my eyes widening as I took in the sight. Tian Zhan stood with his palm still outstretched, and there, frozen, was Wei Long, a bright red handprint seared onto his face, his expression blank with shock. His disbelief turned quickly to rage, his face contorting.
¡°How dare you!¡± he snarled, every muscle in his body tensed, ready to strike.
But Tian Zhan raised an eyebrow, calmly cutting him off. ¡°Oh? Are you resisting me?¡± He took a single step forward, pressing his head forward as though daring the ox-like man to strike him back.
¡°I think someone like you would understand the implications of that."
The threat hung heavy, so raw that it left the entire crowd silent. Even Wei Long, prideful as he was, seemed to waver, his fists twitching with suppressed fury.
"...Is this how the Whispering Wind sect operates?" He asked through gritted teeth.
"This is the authority I wield as a sect leader candidate," he replied coolly. "What sect would sit idly by when another threatens their rising star?"
Wei Long''s face twisted with indignation, his cheeks flushing a deep red. "Ridiculous!" he spat. "You''re the one who barged in here unprovoked, and now you accuse me of aggression? You started this!"
The grey-haired man glanced leisurely around the village square, his gaze settling on the scene; the cracked earth, and the villagers who still watched warily from a distance. "Did I?" he mused, his tone almost casual. "From where I''m standing, it seems you initiated hostilities by attempting to seize control of Gentle Wind Village."
Wei Long''s eyes flickered, a brief hesitation betraying his uncertainty. "I was merely carrying out the interests of Narrow Stone Peak," he retorted. "This village lies within our sphere of influence. You have no say on what we can''t do."
"Ah, so you admit to overstepping your bounds," Tian Zhan said smoothly. "Tell me, does your sect endorse the destruction of property and the endangerment of innocent lives to expand its influence?"
Wei Long''s jaw tightened. "Don''t twist my words."
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"I''m not twisting anything," Tian Zhan replied, his gaze piercing. "I''m simply observing the situation. You attacked this village, harmed its people, and now feign innocence when confronted. It''s unbecoming of a first-class disciple."
As I watched their exchange, it settled over me. Tian Zhan was deftly turning the tables, using his authority and eloquence to paint Wei Long as the aggressor. It struck me how easily the narrative could be controlled from a position of power. Despite only relaying a fraction of the details in my plea for help, Tian Zhan had taken command of the situation effortlessly.
Now this... this was power.
Wei Long''s fists clenched at his sides, his knuckles white. "You have no right to interfere in our affairs," he said through gritted teeth.
Tian Zhan raised an eyebrow. "Interfere? When a fellow sect threatens the peace and well-being of innocents, it''s not interference¡ªit''s responsibility. Unless, of course, you''d prefer we involve the sect elders to mediate this... misunderstanding. Or we could bring this case to the magistrate if you so desire."
A flicker of doubt crossed Wei Long''s face. "You think your status allows you to meddle without consequence?"
"My status grants me the duty to act when others abuse their power," Tian Zhan countered. "And judging by the state of this village and the testimonies of its people, it''s clear who the abuser is."
The silence stretched out, punctuated by the faint rustling of movement. The Five Fists staggered into the square, rubbing their eyes as they took in the scene, confusion quickly shifting to loyalty as they recognized their leader¡¯s battered form.
"Senior Brother! We''ll save you!"
Wei Long¡¯s jaw tightened as they moved forward. ¡°No!¡± he bellowed, his voice ringing out, full of anger and warning, but it was too late; they were advancing, ready to defend him at any cost.
Feng Wu took a quick step forward, but Tian Zhan moved first. A fierce gust of wind exploded outward, knocking Wei Long back as it swept across the square. The Five Fists found themselves caught in the tempest, barely able to steady themselves before Tian Zhan struck. His movements were nothing like the elaborate techniques I¡¯d grown used to seeing; no flashy moves or overt displays of qi. A simple punch, a clean kick, a sharp chop¡ªEach motion flowed like water, yet with such brutal speed and power that every disciple fell with a single strike.
One by one, they dropped, too stunned to defend themselves, their shock mirroring my own as we all watched in awe.
Wei Long stumbled back to his feet, his face twisted in rage, but he froze mid-step as Tian Zhan held up a single hand, the unspoken command clear.
¡°I¡¯ll forgive your disciples¡¯ insolence,¡± Tian Zhan said, voice cold, his gaze unwavering on Wei Long. ¡°They¡¯re young, immature, third-class at best. But you¡¡± His words hung in the air, dripping with finality. ¡°You remember what I said, Wei Long. Make one more move, and I will consider it an act of war against the Whispering Wind Sect.¡±
A long silence stretched out. Wei Long¡¯s face hardened, his eyes smoldering with humiliation and hatred, but he knew he was outmatched. Slowly, he lowered his fists, his jaw set, every line of his body radiating defeat.
I watched him, my heart thudding in my chest, disbelief and relief warring within me. The man who had terrorized our village, who had dared to bring ruin to everything we held dear, was finally brought to his knees. And here, I witnessed the end of his arrogance, as Tian Zhan stood unyielding, a wall that wouldn¡¯t be moved.
Wei Long¡¯s shoulders sagged, his gaze fixed on the ground as he finally accepted the inevitable. The arrogant fire in his eyes had dimmed, replaced by something else. Something hollow.
He opened his mouth, perhaps to mutter some last threat, but before he could, Tian Zhan stepped closer, the air around him chilling. His hand snapped forward in a brutal slap that echoed across the square. Wei Long staggered back, his hand instinctively lifting to his reddened cheek. My breath hitched in my chest.
He''s already won! Why keep pushing? This is only going to make things worse!
He took another step forward, his voice slicing through the silence. "You should be thanking me for this correction, Wei Long. For the mercy I''m showing you¡ªand your sect¡ªby letting you walk away.¡±
Wei Long¡¯s face contorted, his eyes blazing with a hatred he barely managed to keep restrained. Through clenched teeth, he forced out the words, each one dripping with resentment. "Thank you¡ for your correction."
Before I could speak up, Feng Wu glanced sharply at me, shaking his head. As though warning me not to interfere. The sound of painful, cracking slaps continued as TIan Zhan humiliated Narrow Stone Peak.
The sight made something inside me twist. Seeing the once-mighty Wei Long, humiliated and subdued, was a satisfaction I hadn¡¯t expected. But there was a deeper layer, an uncomfortable truth that struck me as I watched the power dynamics at play. Here was a man, a terror to our village, reduced to this state not by the justice of right and wrong, but by the authority Tian Zhan wielded with ease.
If Wei Long had been the one to hold that power, would we have fared as well?
"Senior, I think that''s enough. I believe he''s learned his lesson." Feng Wu said diplomatically, coming forward to stop Tian Zhan.
The man''s sharp eyes analyzed Wei Long critically. The ox-like man had his head down, trembling, either from rage or fear. His eyes were shadowed, but I could see veins popping up on his head as he silently took everything.
"Is this enough, Kai Liu? Do you think Wei Long has repented enough?"
My gaze snapped to Tian Zhan, and we made eye contact.
I nodded, heart pounding. Despite the pain in my throat and chest, I forced myself to speak. "Yes, senior. I believe he''s learned his lesson."
Tian Zhan¡¯s expression softened a fraction. "Good." He turned back to Wei Long, his voice icy and unforgiving. "Then thank Kai Liu and the Verdant Lotus Sect for this leniency, Wei Long. Consider this your final warning."
The man clenched his jaw, the words practically wrenched from his throat as he turned to face us, hands clasped together with his head bowed. "Thank you¡ Kai Liu, and to the Verdant Lotus Sect for their mercy."
The humiliation dripped from his voice. It felt like both a victory and something else entirely, something heavier. As Tian Zhan dismissed him with a flick of his hand, Wei Long dropped to his knees, his spirit subdued, moving stiffly as he unbound Zhao Wen and lifted the groaning members of the Five Fists from the dirt. I watched as he carefully avoided meeting anyone¡¯s gaze, his defeat absolute and devastating.
The square was silent, the weight of everything pressing down like a storm after the battle, thick and laden with unspoken truths. And in that quiet, a realization struck me¡ªone that ran deep and cold.
I¡¯d thought calling in a favor was straightforward. I¡¯d thought power worked in simple exchanges, that justice would feel clear and clean. But today, as I watched Wei Long¡¯s spirit crushed under Tian Zhan¡¯s heel, I saw something more. My stomach twisted with understanding. The world Elder Ming had warned me about. About how the Jianghu was filled with dangerous people with ill intentions.
I was just lucky to stand beside someone who could turn the tables in my favor.
He¡¯d tried to warn me, to guide me, and I¡¯d thought I understood. But as Tian Zhan commanded Wei Long to never so much as look in our direction again... as Wei Long nodded, defeated, I realized that I was just beginning to understand what true power meant in the Jianghu.
151. Allies & Ambitions
I sat cross-legged on the worn floor of my shop, sorting through the last remnants of my medicinal herbs. Most of them were bruised, like the people they were meant to heal, and barely enough to cover the worst of our wounds. My fingers trembled slightly as I worked, but I willed them steady, ignoring the dull throb radiating from my chest. Each breath came with a faint hitch, a reminder of the punches Wei Long had delivered, but I refused to let it slow me down.
I sighed, shaking my head at the limitations, but there was no point in complaining. With gentle fingers, I crushed the dried leaves into powder, applying it over Windy¡¯s bruised scales. My arms protested the motion but I pushed through, forcing myself to focus on the task at hand.
Using the last of my extracted chamomile essence, I poured it over the powder and watched him coil, a faint hiss slipping out as the medicine stung.
¡°It¡¯s alright, Windy,¡± I murmured, patting his small head. ¡°You¡¯re a tough one.¡±
Windy gave a reluctant nod, his usually sharp eyes softened, if only slightly, by pain. Lan-Yin, the least injured among us, tended to the rest of the villagers. Beside me, Wang Jun sat with two massive bruises along his forearms and a broken nose from his contest of strength against Wei Long. He shot me a look that was half a grimace, half a smile.
¡°Didn¡¯t expect a beating like that today.¡± he muttered.
¡°I''m sorry for getting you all pulled into it,¡± I replied quietly, casting a glance toward Tianyi. She sat a little apart from us, leaning against the wall, her face as serene as ever. However, her eyes seemed calmer, the only tell from her expressionless face to determine what she was feeling. Her human form was still unfamiliar to me, but the patches of spiderweb-like cracks running along her neck and shoulders reminded me all too much of the damage we¡¯d endured.
The rhythmic ache in my chest surged again, sharper this time, as if my body were chastising me for ignoring it. I resisted the urge to probe the bruising around my sternum. I could already guess the extent of the damage; probably cracked, if not broken ribs. But those could wait. There were more pressing matters at hand.
As I worked, I noticed a thin thread, shimmering faintly, stretched across Tianyi¡¯s shoulder.
The source was clear: that shadowy spider, Yin Si, hiding just within the shadows, her delicate legs weaving intricate strands that formed a makeshift bandage across Tianyi¡¯s worst injuries.
It wasn¡¯t just a patch job, either. There was something almost¡ purposeful about her weaving, as if she understood what each thread needed to do.
Tianyi noticed my stare and gently extended two thin strands of her own hair toward the spider. There was a quiet moment of concentration on her face as she closed her eyes, her fingers brushing over the threads. When she pulled her hand away, the strands glowed briefly, as if infused with a spark of her qi. Yin Si paused, her mandibles twitching before she nodded, looking like she¡¯d gained a sudden burst of energy. With one last look of¡ªwas that derision?¡ªtoward me, she disappeared back into the shadows.
I blinked, caught off guard. ¡°Tianyi¡ did you just¡ give her some of your qi?¡±
Tianyi tilted her head slightly, her lips curving into a faint smile. ¡°She needed it,¡± she replied, her voice soft. ¡°She used up much of her silk to fix me.¡±
Before I could think on it further, footsteps echoed from outside, and a knock sounded at the doorframe. I straightened, biting back a wince as the motion pulled at my bruised neck. Feng Wu and Tian Zhan entered, their forms casting long shadows into the room. Both looked composed, though faint lines of weariness touched their faces.
¡°It¡¯s over,¡± Feng Wu said, his voice quiet. ¡°Narrow Stone Peak has departed. Your village won¡¯t have to worry about them anymore.¡±
A wave of relief washed over me, though it didn¡¯t entirely erase the unease coiling in my chest. ¡°Thank you,¡± I managed, my voice hoarse. ¡°Both of you¡ you really didn¡¯t have to go that far for us.¡±
Tian Zhan stepped further inside, glancing around at the simplicity of my home with a slight nod of approval. ¡°It was necessary,¡± he replied. ¡°To prevent any misunderstandings in the future.¡±
¡°Prevent misunderstandings,¡± I repeated, trying to wrap my head around how his "necessary measures" had resulted in slapping a first-class disciple into submission. Still, it was difficult to argue with the results.
Feng Wu crossed the room, his hand resting lightly on my shoulder as he inspected the bruises across my arms. ¡°You handled yourself well,¡± he said quietly. ¡°But you should recover. There¡¯s no need to push yourself beyond what you already endured.¡±
I let out a laugh, rubbing at the back of my neck. ¡°Didn¡¯t feel like I handled much of anything, if I¡¯m honest. But thank you.¡±
I turned to Tian Zhan, struggling to find the right words. ¡°I¡ don¡¯t know what we would¡¯ve done without your help.¡±
Tian Zhan nodded, though his eyes held a keen, assessing glint. ¡°It¡¯s no trouble. You¡¯ve earned a favor for helping my Junior Sister, and I keep my promises.¡±
The statement, though simple, held a power that left me quiet.
Feng Wu and Tian Zhan exchanged glances as they stepped further into the room, their expressions softening as they took in the sight of us nursing our wounds. Tian Zhan seemed at ease. It was strange seeing him so relaxed, like a different person from the one who¡¯d commanded Wei Long to heel.
Tian Zhan shifted a large, weathered bundle off his shoulder and held it out to me. The rough cloth was hastily knotted, threads sticking out at odd angles. He set it down carefully, and as he untied it, I could see several vibrant herbs and delicate stalks spilling over the edges, their fragrances mingling in the air. The bulb of a Jadeleaf Lily, the Sunfire Blade Grass, and other rare, high-end ingredients peeked out from the wrinkled cloth.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.
¡°These are from Jingyu Lian and Zhi Ruo,¡± Tian Zhan explained. ¡°They heard about what happened and sent what they could. Quickly, as you can see.¡±
I took in the bundle, surprised not just by the quality but by the obvious rush in its packing. The herbs and ingredients seemed like they¡¯d been snatched off shelves and bundled together without thought, leaves twisted and stalks bent, as though they¡¯d thrown in whatever valuable ingredients they could find in their haste to help.
¡°Thank you,¡± I said, genuinely overwhelmed. ¡°Please¡ thank them for me. I don¡¯t think I deserve all this.¡±
Tian Zhan gave a smile, one that softened his otherwise intense expression. ¡°They¡¯ll be glad to hear it. Though my Junior Sister would probably remind you she¡¯s still the better alchemist.¡±
Before I could respond, Feng Wu stepped forward, setting down a polished wooden box, wide and deep with a sturdy latch. He opened it, revealing an orderly array of seeds, bulbs, and small rhizomes, all carefully stored in sections. Unlike the vibrant colors of Tian Zhan¡¯s gift, this looked humble and simple, each herb variety carefully labeled.
¡°I thought these might be useful,¡± Feng Wu said, gesturing to the neatly arranged box. ¡°It¡¯s not as¡ dramatic as Tian Zhan¡¯s gift, but we wanted to help you get your garden back on its feet. These are sourced from Tranquil Breeze Farm, so there''s no doubt about their quality.¡±
Over a dozen types of seeds, bulbs, and rhizomes; everything I¡¯d need to start fresh and fill my garden with a complete range of practical herbs. It was a gardener¡¯s dream, a perfect foundation to restore everything I¡¯d lost.
¡°Thank you, Feng Wu. Both of you. I owe you a debt.¡±
Tian Zhan shrugged, crossing his arms and leaning against the wall, his posture casual, almost unguarded. ¡°We did what was necessary, Kai. Leaving a talent like yours to suffer would be a disservice.¡±
Still, I glanced between them, unable to hold back a hint of confusion. ¡°Even after everything? Jingyu Lian¡ she didn¡¯t have to go this far. We''re not that close, either.¡±
¡°Although I''m repaying my debt by being here, I suppose this is her way of repaying you for the Gauntlet,¡± Tian Zhan replied.
As I carefully arranged the herbs and seeds, I noticed him watching me, a faint amusement in his eyes. His earlier harshness with Wei Long felt worlds away, replaced with something softer, like he was a completely different person. He must have noticed my lingering contemplative look, because he inclined his head, meeting my gaze.
¡°If my methods seemed¡ harsh,¡± he began, his voice measured, ¡°I apologize. Sometimes, extreme measures are necessary to prevent retaliation. Humiliating Wei Long publicly was the best way to ensure Narrow Stone Peak wouldn¡¯t think of returning here.¡±
I nodded slowly, the pieces falling into place. Tian Zhan¡¯s harsh actions weren¡¯t just displays of power. They were calculated moves to secure peace for us. Where I¡¯d focused only on avoiding conflict, he had seen the longer game, one where deterrence mattered more than appeasement.
¡°Thank you for explaining,¡± I said, my voice thoughtful. ¡°I hadn¡¯t thought of it that way. I was only worried about provoking them further.¡±
Feng Wu offered a nod of approval. ¡°It¡¯s a fine line to walk, Kai. Compassion is important, but sometimes strength alone ensures peace.¡±
I took a deep breath, feeling both grateful and a touch unsettled by the moral complexity of it all. But as I looked between the two of them, their gifts spread before me, I knew that whatever our differences, they were allies who¡¯d risked themselves for us.
And I was fortunate to have such friends.
As the weight of their words settled between us, Feng Wu¡¯s gaze shifted over to Tianyi, who sat quietly in her corner, the segmented lines on her skin highlighted in the dim light. His eyes widened ever so slightly as he took in her human form.
¡°Tianyi?¡± Feng Wu¡¯s voice held an edge of wonder. ¡°Has she truly achieved a human form?¡± He trailed off, clearly recalling her former butterfly form.
Tian Zhan, meanwhile, stared with open curiosity. His eyes roamed over her intricate, segmented skin, and around her neck where Yin Si¡¯s silk was still woven. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen a spirit beast take a human form before,¡± he admitted. ¡°And certainly not one with such unique¡ qualities.¡±
Tianyi met their gazes with her usual impassive calm, but when her eyes lingered on Tian Zhan, I caught a faint flicker of interest. It wasn¡¯t admiration or curiosity; it was more an intense assessment, like she was trying to discern something fundamental about him. Then, without a word, she looked away, folding her hands in her lap.
Feeling the need to break the silence, I turned to Feng Wu. ¡°How rare is it for a spirit beast to achieve a human form?¡± I asked. ¡°The Heavenly Interface said something about it being possible only at the Essence Awakening stage, but¡¡± I glanced at Tianyi, unsure of the specifics.
Feng Wu tilted his head thoughtfully. ¡°It¡¯s certainly rare. The Heavenly Interface isn¡¯t incorrect, but it doesn¡¯t account for the individuality of each spirit beast. Some never find the need to take human form. Take Ma Xi of Tranquil Breeze Farm; I¡¯ve never seen him as anything other than his true form. And if rumors are correct, he doesn¡¯t even know how to shift, though his strength is unquestionable. For most, human forms aren¡¯t necessary for their survival or goals, so they rarely pursue them.¡±
Tian Zhan nodded in agreement, still eyeing Tianyi with an appreciative gaze. ¡°From what I understand, it¡¯s a matter of will and need. Some spirit beasts that could transform choose not to, while others keep it hidden if they do. That makes it¡ noteworthy that she decided it was necessary.¡±
I glanced at Tianyi, who continued to observe our conversation with that serene, unreadable expression. It was strange to imagine that she¡¯d chosen this form deliberately, with a purpose of her own.
¡°Feng Wu... I remember you,¡± Tianyi said quietly, her voice as gentle as a whispering wind, her attention shifting to him briefly. Her gaze softened ever so slightly, a trace of warmth that rarely broke through her neutral demeanor. "It is good to see you. Thank you for saving Kai."
¡°Likewise, Tianyi,¡± Feng Wu replied with a modest smile. "I''m glad we arrived in time."
But when her eyes fell on Tian Zhan again, they narrowed slightly, as if she was scrutinizing him. She held his gaze a moment longer than necessary, then looked away without a word, dismissing him. Tian Zhan raised an eyebrow, perhaps a bit amused, perhaps a bit surprised, but he didn¡¯t press her for acknowledgment.
¡°Quite the companion you have, Kai,¡± he said, his voice light. ¡°It seems Gentle Wind Village is full of surprises.¡±
¡°She¡¯s¡ unique, to say the least,¡± I replied, glancing at Tianyi, who met my gaze for a fleeting second before turning away. Was she mad at me?
The conversation drifted on, but my focus waned. I nodded absently as Tian Zhan and Feng Wu discussed the logistics of rebuilding the village¡¯s defenses, their voices low but steady. My thoughts pulled me in another direction¡ªone I couldn¡¯t shake, no matter how hard I tried.
The truth was stark. Without the intervention of the Verdant Lotus and Whispering Wind sects, Gentle Wind Village would have been crushed under the weight of Narrow Stone Peak. All my efforts; Tianyi, Windy, the hours spent cultivating, foraging, and learning... it felt small in comparison to the centuries of power and influence wielded by these sects.
I glanced at Feng Wu and Tian Zhan. Both distinct, but incredibly capable individuals only a few years older than I was.
What did I have? A garden in ruins, a few spirit beasts, and a budding talent in alchemy. It wasn¡¯t enough to protect anything. Not yet.
Zhi Ruo had warned me against standing out, against drawing attention that could invite danger. But wasn¡¯t the village already a target? Avoiding conflict hadn¡¯t protected us. If anything, it had only delayed the inevitable. If I didn¡¯t grow stronger, if I didn¡¯t find a way to elevate Gentle Wind Village beyond its current state, this reprieve would be temporary. The next time, there might not be allies to intervene.
My gaze fell on the gifts spread before me: the vibrant herbs and meticulously labeled seeds, symbols of the connections I¡¯d forged. They weren¡¯t just gifts. They were lifelines, reminders that standing alone was no longer an option.
Tianyi shifted slightly, her segmented lines catching the light as she adjusted her position. Even she, with her newfound strength and human form, wasn¡¯t enough to change the balance of power. Not yet. I clenched my fists, a quiet resolve settling into my chest.
I looked up, cutting through the soft murmur of conversation. ¡°Tian Zhan, Feng Wu,¡± I said, my voice firmer than I expected. Both turned to face me, their expressions curious. ¡°I wanted to thank you again for everything you¡¯ve done. But¡ I think we need to discuss something more.¡±
Tian Zhan raised an eyebrow, his posture shifting slightly as if preparing for a heavier topic. ¡°Go on."
I took a steadying breath. ¡°The truth is, Gentle Wind Village can¡¯t stand on its own. Today proved that. And while I¡¯ll do everything in my power to strengthen it, I don¡¯t think I can do it alone.¡± My voice wavered slightly, but I pressed on. ¡°What would it take to form a partnership between the village and your sects? Something that ensures the safety of the people here in the long run?¡±
Standing out might not be a choice, but a necessity. If the village was to survive, if I was to fulfill the potential others seemed to see in me, I had to take the first step.
152. The First Planting
I clenched my fists against my knees, the pounding in my chest a reminder of how audacious this was. Still, I couldn¡¯t afford to back down now.
Feng Wu finally opened his mouth, but I raised a hand, cutting him off. ¡°I know what you¡¯re going to say,¡± I began, my voice firm but steady. ¡°And I know that you won¡¯t¡ªand shouldn¡¯t¡ªdo this for free.¡±
I glanced at Tianyi, who sat quietly in the corner. ¡°The reason Narrow Stone Peak was so determined to take this village is because of the ambient qi here. It¡¯s stronger than anywhere else in the region. Haven''t you noticed it since you arrived?¡±
Feng Wu¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°I did notice the abundance of qi. It¡¯s unusual, to say the least.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not natural,¡± I admitted. ¡°It¡¯s because of Tianyi. She has a skill called Qi Haven. It passively enhances the ambient qi in the area around her. She¡¯s the reason cultivation has been easier here, for me and everyone else in the village.¡±
Tian Zhan¡¯s posture shifted, his expression sharpening. ¡°A passive skill with that much influence? That¡¯s rare.¡±
¡°Rare enough to draw attention,¡± I agreed. ¡°And I understand that alone might not be enough to justify your sect deploying a squad here. But there¡¯s more.¡±
I stood and moved toward one of the shelves, scanning the neatly labeled vials until I found the one I was looking for. Holding it up to the faint light, the liquid shimmered like sunlight caught in a jar. Sage essence.
Turning back to face them, I took the ginseng-sage hybrid, one of my more successful experiments. Its leaves glistening, the result of its unique composition.
Feng Wu¡¯s eyes widened slightly as recognition dawned. ¡°Is that¡?¡±
¡°A hybrid,¡± I confirmed. ¡°Using essence extraction and spiritual infusion, I¡¯ve developed a technique to combine plants, creating entirely new species with unique properties. It''s why I asked you if Master Li Tao had ever been able to do the same.¡±
I carefully uncorked the vial and let a single drop fall onto the plant. The reaction was immediate: the flickering leaves pulsed, their glow intensifying as the essence fused with the plant. Within moments, new shoots sprouted, curling upward like they were reaching for the heavens.
¡°This,¡± I said, gesturing to the plant, ¡°is only one example. By experimenting with hybrids, I can create pills that circumvent resistance. You know how cultivators build resistance to repeated use of the same ingredients, right?¡±
Tian Zhan nodded slowly, his sharp eyes fixed on the plant. ¡°You¡¯re saying you can bypass that entirely?¡±
¡°In theory, yes,¡± I replied. ¡°By using hybrids, I can create pills with unique combinations that don¡¯t trigger resistance. It¡¯s not perfect yet, but the potential is there.¡±
¡°This village,¡± I continued, ¡°could become more than just a training ground. It could be a resource hub, producing pills and herbs that even your sects can¡¯t replicate. With Tianyi¡¯s Qi Haven enhancing cultivation and my hybrids providing unique alchemical products, it¡¯s a mutually beneficial arrangement.¡±
The room was silent again, but this time, it was the kind of silence that held the weight of consideration. I could see the wheels turning in their minds, their expressions shifting as they processed what I¡¯d laid out.
I took a steadying breath. ¡°I¡¯m not asking for charity. I¡¯m offering an alliance¡ªone that benefits us all.¡±
Tian Zhan exchanged a glance with Feng Wu, his lips curling into a faint, almost imperceptible smile. ¡°You¡¯re more ambitious than I gave you credit for, Kai.¡±
Feng Wu nodded slowly, his thoughtful gaze lingering on the hybrid plant. ¡°This¡ could work. But it¡¯s not a decision we can make lightly. I''m sure the elders would agree, and I''ll advocate on your behalf.¡±
The first-class disciple of the Whispering Wind sect barked out a laugh. "We? I''ll take that deal right now. The sect can deal with the headache of it all later. But I''ll discuss the specifics here with you right now."
I nodded, relief flooding my body. "Of course. The sooner, the better."
While the specifics of the agreement with Feng Wu and Tian Zhan remained tentative, one thing was clear: the Gentle Wind Village had gained a lifeline. Now, it was up to me to demonstrate the potential I had promised them.
It began in the garden, or what was left of it.
With the seeds and bulbs Feng Wu had brought and the rare ingredients gifted by Jingyu Lian and Zhi Ruo, I had everything I needed to start anew. Even if it was winter, even if it wasn''t ideal, I had to start now. My village depended on it.
I knelt in the dirt, crumbling soil between my fingers as I prepared the first row of planters. Tianyi hovered nearby, her presence calm yet attentive. Occasionally, Windy slithered over, his small form coiling around my leg.
As I pressed the first bulb into the soil, a sharp pain flared in my chest, stealing my breath for a moment. I froze, my fingers tightening around the fragile stem as I clenched my jaw. The bruises from Wei Long¡¯s blows pulsed dully, a deep ache that reminded me of every strike. My herbalist instincts screamed at me to stop, to tend to the damage before it worsened, but I shoved the thought aside.
¡°No time for that now,¡± I muttered under my breath, forcing myself to steady my breathing and continue. ¡°Let¡¯s start with the basics. We need a strong foundation before we can experiment.¡±
Tianyi tilted her head, watching silently as I pressed the bulbs into the soil. With everyone returning to their respective spaces, it was nice to have some peace and quiet. Without the weight of Narrow Stone Peak on my shoulders... I felt free.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.
As I worked, my thoughts drifted to the challenges ahead. Creating hybrids had been an experiment born out of curiosity, but now it would define the village¡¯s survival. I¡¯d have to refine my techniques, scale up production, and ensure the quality remained consistent; all while maintaining my training.
The newly built greenhouse became my next priority. With the ambient qi enhanced by Tianyi¡¯s Qi Haven, this space would be the heart of my work. I carefully arranged the Sunfire Blade Grass and Jadeleaf Lily into separate compartments, their vibrant colors adding a sense of life to the otherwise barren structure.
As I moved to the sunlit inner curve of the greenhouse, my ribs protested with a deep, throbbing ache. I paused, leaning on the edge of a planter to catch my breath. The motion sent a sharp twinge through my side, but I quickly masked it, straightening and brushing soil from my hands.
I eyed the inner curve of the greenhouse. After consulting Li Wei, I realized that this would be the areas where sunlight would hit most, year-round.
And that made it the optimal spot to place the Golden Bamboo.
Even if the immediate danger had passed, it didn''t mean the work was done. In fact, the fight with Wei Long felt like a prologue, a warning of what could come if I wasn¡¯t prepared. My hands pressed into the dirt, firm but careful, as I planted a single seed of Golden Bamboo near the inner curve of the greenhouse.
I stepped back, brushing the soil off my hands, and surveyed the garden. The rows of newly planted seeds and bulbs looked sparse and small, a far cry from the lush, thriving sanctuary I¡¯d worked so hard to build. My heart ached at the loss, but as I planted seeds, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a spark of hope.
Every seed was a promise, a tiny capsule of hope carrying the potential for a new beginning.
Tianyi¡¯s presence was a comforting constant. She stepped closer, her human form silent but steady as her gaze swept over the garden.
¡°It will grow,¡± she said simply, her voice carrying a quiet certainty that soothed my lingering doubts.
"Yes," I murmured with a smile. "It will."
Hours passed, and the sun hung low in the sky as I walked to the village with Tianyi and Windy in tow. They were reluctant to leave me alone, and I wasn''t keen on being far apart from them either.
As I made my way back through the square, the atmosphere was a mix of weariness and determination. Though the weight of the incident still lingered, the village was stirring with activity, a quiet resilience in every movement.
Lan-Yin stood near the entrance to the tea house, her sleeves rolled up as she handed out bowls of warm soup to the villagers hard at work. The rich, savory aroma of her cooking filled the air, mingling with the faint scent of earth and ash. A group of children clustered around her, Xiao Bao among them, carrying trays of bread and water to the able-bodied men repairing the floor after Wei Long''s attack.
¡°Kai!¡± Lan-Yin called out, catching sight of me. She waved me over, her expression a mix of exhaustion and relief. ¡°You¡¯ve been at it all day. Sit down and eat something before you collapse.¡±
I hesitated, my eyes darting to the villagers still working tirelessly. ¡°I¡¯m fine, Lan-Yin. Save it for the others.¡±
She planted her hands on her hips, giving me a look that brooked no argument. ¡°Don¡¯t make me chase you down, Kowtow Kai. You¡¯ve done enough for one day.¡±
Xiao Bao tugged at my sleeve, his round face streaked with dirt but his eyes bright with determination. ¡°Big Brother Kai, you need to eat too! You¡¯re always helping everyone else, so let us help you this time.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but smile at his earnestness. ¡°Alright, alright. You win.¡±
Lowering myself onto the bench, I suppressed a wince as my bruised ribs and neck flared in protest. I adjusted my posture slightly, leaning forward to ease the strain, and forced a faint smile as Lan-Yin handed me a steaming bowl of soup.
The warmth spread through my hands as I sat. The first sip was like a balm, soothing and grounding, and for a moment, I allowed myself to simply breathe. Around me, the children darted back and forth, delivering food and drink with a zeal that lightened the somber mood. Their laughter, though subdued, was a reminder that life continued, even after chaos.
Tianyi took an offered bowl from Mei-Li, looking around for a moment, before carefully sipping it bit by bit. She offered a spoonful to Windy, but the serpent turned it''s head in disinterest.
Lan-Yin sat down beside me, her usual sharp wit tempered by quiet concern. ¡°How are you holding up?¡± she asked, her voice soft.
I stared into the bowl, the steam curling upward like wisps of thought. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± I admitted. ¡°It feels like we¡¯ve been given a second chance, but it¡¯s hard not to think about what could¡¯ve happened if things went differently.¡±
She nodded, her gaze distant for a moment before she looked back at me. ¡°That¡¯s the way of it, isn¡¯t it? We take the hits, pick up the pieces, and move forward. You¡¯ve done more than anyone could ask, Kai.¡±
Her words settled over me, comforting but not quite dispelling the weight in my chest. ¡°Thanks. I¡¯ll try to remember that.¡±
She stood, brushing off her apron. ¡°Good. Now finish that soup before it gets cold. We''re going to be up all night, by the looks of it."
As she moved to join the others, I finished the last of the soup and stood, feeling a renewed sense of purpose.
I passed the forge, the rhythmic clang of hammer on metal drew my attention. Wang Jun stood by the anvil, his face set in a look of fierce determination as he shaped a blade. Sweat dripped down his brow, but his movements were steady, purposeful. It was clear he¡¯d thrown himself into his work with renewed vigor.
¡°Wang Jun,¡± I called out, stepping closer.
He paused, looking up with a faint grin that didn¡¯t quite reach his eyes. ¡°Kai,¡± he said, his voice tired but steady. ¡°Done with your garden?"
¡°Yeah, I was just passing by,¡± I replied. ¡°Wanted to check in. How are you holding up?¡±
He glanced at the blade in his hands, then back at me. ¡°Better now that I¡¯ve got something to focus on. After everything that happened¡ I can¡¯t just sit around. If another fight comes, I want to be ready. And if I can¡¯t fight, I¡¯ll make sure everyone has the tools to defend themselves.¡±
I nodded, my chest tightening with a mix of pride and guilt. Wang Jun¡¯s resolve mirrored my own, but I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that my failure to stand against Wei Long had pushed him to this point.
¡°Thanks,¡± I said softly. ¡°For everything. You didn¡¯t have to stand with me, but you did.¡±
He shrugged, his gaze turning back to the blade. ¡°We¡¯re in this together. You have our back, and we have yours.¡±
I left him to his work, his words echoing in my mind as I continued toward the village square.
Li Wei was crouched near the center of the square, his hands moving deftly as he worked to fill the cracks and gouges left behind by Wei Long¡¯s attacks. His usual quiet demeanor was unchanged, but there was a certain urgency to his movements.
¡°Li Wei,¡± I greeted, stopping a few paces away.
He looked up briefly, his eyes flitting toward Tianyi and Windy before returning to me, offering a small nod before returning to his task. ¡°Kai.¡±
I watched him work for a moment, clearing debris and soil with the other able-bodied villagers. ¡°You¡¯re making quick work of this. Do you need help?¡±
¡°No, you go and rest. You''ve done enough,¡± he replied simply. ¡°The square is the heart of the village. If it¡¯s broken, everything feels¡ off. Just trying to help coordinate the clean-up.¡±
I crouched beside him, watching as he prepared baskets of loose dirt. Likely to fill in the loose gaps made by his foot-stomp. ¡°It¡¯s amazing, what you can do.¡±
Li Wei paused, his eyes flickering to mine. ¡°You think so? I think you''re the amazing one, considering you went toe to toe with Narrow Stone Peak.¡±
I felt my face heat up, embarrassment creeping in at his words. I scratched the back of my neck, unable to meet his eyes directly. ¡°Toe to toe? I don¡¯t know if I¡¯d call it that. I couldn¡¯t even scratch him. I was just trying to hold on, hoping someone would show up to stop him before it was too late. Windy and Tianyi did most of the work.¡±
Li Wei stopped what he was doing and turned to face me fully, his expression calm but firm. ¡°From where I was standing, it sure looked like toe to toe. You didn¡¯t back down, Kai. Against someone like that, just standing your ground was more than most would¡¯ve done. And it wasn¡¯t just about the fight.¡±
I frowned slightly, unsure what he meant. ¡°What do you mean?¡±
He gestured around the square with a small wave of his hand. ¡°You gave us the courage to stand too. When someone that strong shows up, most people run. But you didn¡¯t, and because of that, none of us did either. That matters more than whether you landed a good hit or not.¡±
His words left me momentarily speechless. I had been so focused on my failures, on the moments where I felt powerless, that I hadn¡¯t considered how it might have looked from the outside.
¡°I¡ I guess I never thought about it that way,¡± I admitted, my voice quieter now.
Li Wei offered a faint smile, his hands resuming their work. ¡°That¡¯s because you¡¯re too busy being hard on yourself. But trust me, Kai. What you did today mattered. For all of us who were watching.¡±
I nodded, the weight in my chest easing just a little.
¡°Thanks, Li Wei,¡± I said after a pause. I found myself thanking a lot of people. And I''m glad I did. There were many things to be thankful for.
¡°Anytime,¡± he replied, his tone light but genuine. ¡°Now go on. I¡¯ve got this. You¡¯ve earned a break, even if you don¡¯t think you have.¡±
I stood, brushing off my hands as I prepared to leave. ¡°Alright. But let me know if you need anything. Tianyi, Windy; let''s go.¡±
I left him to his work, my heart a little lighter as we resumed our walk to Elder Ming''s house.
153. Carrying the Flame
As we walked in silence toward Elder Ming¡¯s house, Tianyi¡¯s gaze lingered on me. Her presence, usually a quiet comfort, felt unusually intent. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft but firm. ¡°You¡¯re hurt.¡±
I stiffened, shaking my head without looking at her. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±
¡°You are not,¡± she said, stepping in front of me and stopping my stride. Her sharp eyes scanned me, seeing through the fa?ade I¡¯d worked so hard to maintain. ¡°Why do you ignore it?¡±
¡°There¡¯s too much to do,¡± I replied, sidestepping her. ¡°The village needs me right now.¡±
¡°The village needs you whole.¡±
Before I could argue, she stepped behind me, her arms wrapping gently around my torso. I froze, startled by the gesture. Warmth bloomed where her hands rested, spreading through my chest and ribs in a soothing wave. The lingering ache in my side eased, and the tightness in my throat relaxed. It wasn¡¯t a complete cure, but the relief was enough to steal my breath.
¡°Tianyi¡¡±
She leaned her chin lightly on my shoulder. It seemed the act had taken a lot out of her. ¡°You don¡¯t need to do everything alone, Kai. Let us help.¡±
I nodded, my voice caught in my throat. ¡°Thank you,¡± I managed after a moment.
Her lips curved into a faint smile as she turned, motioning for Windy to follow. As I watched her walk ahead, the warmth of her qi still lingering in my chest, I found myself standing a little straighter, the weight on my shoulders feeling just a little lighter.
The stone path leading to Elder Ming¡¯s courtyard was quiet, the air heavy with the chill of dusk. The faint scent of jasmine lingered from the garden lining the entrance, though many of the plants were dormant in the cold season. I paused briefly at the threshold, gathering my thoughts. Inside, I could hear the murmur of conversation¡ªElder Ming and Feng Wu.
I stepped inside cautiously, not wanting to interrupt. Elder Ming sat straight-backed, his grey hair illuminated faintly by the lantern hanging nearby. Feng Wu stood beside him, his expression calm but focused.
¡°¡I¡¯ll speak to Tian Zhan,¡± Feng Wu was saying as I entered. His gaze flicked to me, and he gave a small nod. ¡°Kai.¡±
¡°Feng Wu,¡± I replied, bowing slightly. ¡°I hope I¡¯m not interrupting.¡±
¡°Not at all,¡± he said smoothly, stepping back. ¡°We can wrap this up here. I¡¯ll discuss the details with Tian Zhan and see what the Whispering Wind Sect is prepared to do. Rest assured, we¡¯ll find a way to help the village.¡±
I nodded, grateful but feeling the weight of the unspoken implications. ¡°Thank you. Truly.¡±
Feng Wu offered a faint smile, then turned to Elder Ming. ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave, Village Head.¡± He strode past me, his movements unhurried but purposeful.
Now it was just Elder Ming and me, and the air grew noticeably heavier. The silence stretched, and for a moment, I wondered if he was upset with me. After all, I had acted without consulting him; hiding my plans, threatening Zhao Wen, and risking more than just my own life.
¡°Sit,¡± Elder Ming said finally, gesturing to the chair across from him. His voice was calm, but it incensed me even more.
I obeyed, settling into the chair. Tianyi, who had been quietly following me, hesitated before moving to stand nearby. Windy slithered in without a care.
Elder Ming¡¯s gaze shifted to her, his expression softening ever so slightly. ¡°Would you care for some tea as well?¡± he asked, his tone more gentle than I expected.
She tilted her head, but noticed the steaming teapot and recognition dawned on her face. She gave a small bow, her movements graceful despite her newly acquired human form. ¡°I would. Thank you,¡± she replied, her voice soft and composed.
Elder Ming poured the tea with steady hands, sliding a cup toward her before offering one to me. I took it with a murmured thanks, my eyes flicking between the two of them as the atmosphere subtly shifted. There was no hostility here, no reprimand.
Just a quiet, measured calm.
¡°You¡¯ve grown strong, Tianyi,¡± Elder Ming said after a moment, his gaze lingering on her as though seeing something beyond the surface. ¡°Though I must admit, I hardly expected to see you in this form.¡±
¡°It is¡ different,¡± she admitted. ¡°But necessary.¡±
¡°You¡¯ve chosen to walk alongside Kai, then,¡± he said, his tone more of a statement than a question.
¡°I have,¡± she said simply. ¡°He is kind. And determined. It is not an easy path, but it is one I wish to take.¡±Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!
I felt a warmth rise in my chest at her words, but before I could respond, Tianyi turned her attention fully to Elder Ming, her eyes narrowing slightly as though inspecting him. ¡°You are¡ still not well.¡±
Elder Ming raised an eyebrow, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. ¡°Oh?¡±
Tianyi¡¯s voice softened. ¡°Your pain. I felt it, even before this form. You hide it well, but it lingers.¡±
Her words struck me, pulling a memory to the surface. Tianyi, in her butterfly form, often circling Elder Ming when we stayed here. I had thought it was curiosity, or perhaps her way of showing affection. But now I realized it had been something more. She had sensed his pain, even then.
And there was only one injury that could be this persistent, unhealed by her potent aura.
The older man''s hand hovered over his tea cup for a moment before he chuckled softly, the sound dry but not unkind. ¡°You¡¯re perceptive,¡± he said, glancing at me briefly. ¡°It¡¯s true that the injury to my dantian has long since healed in the physical sense, but it never truly heals. You grow used to it.¡±
Tianyi¡¯s gaze was steady, her voice a mere whisper. ¡°I see.¡±
Elder Ming sipped his tea, his expression contemplative. ¡°It is not an easy thing, to lose one¡¯s dantian. The loss of strength is only part of it. The greater wound lies in the loss of connection¡ªto qi, to the world, to oneself. But it is a lesson as much as it is a burden.¡±
The weight of his words pressed on me, bringing back the memory of my own threat to destroy Zhao Wen¡¯s dantian. At the time, it had felt like the only way to protect the village, but now¡ I couldn¡¯t help but question the choice.
¡°I¡ª¡± I began, but Elder Ming raised a hand to stop me.
¡°You did what you thought was necessary,¡± he said, his tone neither approving nor condemning. ¡°But remember, Kai, that such actions leave marks. On others, yes, but also on yourself.¡±
His words lingered in the air, heavy with meaning. Tianyi¡¯s eyes flicked to me briefly, and I could feel her quiet support, unspoken but steady.
Elder Ming turned back to her, his expression softening once more. ¡°You are different now, but I can still see the spirit that fluttered through this village. And I thank you, Tianyi, for what you have done for our people.¡±
Tianyi bowed her head slightly, her voice soft but firm. ¡°It is my home as much as it is Kai¡¯s. I will protect it.¡±
Elder Ming nodded, his gaze distant as he turned his attention back to his tea. For a moment, the room fell into a contemplative silence, the weight of unspoken thoughts settling over us. Then, he let out a quiet sigh and looked at me with a small, tired smile.
¡°Do you remember what I told you about my dantian?"
I nodded. ¡°You said it was destroyed¡ by your Senior Brother. He betrayed you, and your friend helped you escape after killing them in revenge.¡±
He inclined his head, his fingers absently tracing the rim of his teacup. ¡°Indeed. But there¡¯s more to that story than what I¡¯ve shared before.¡±
I leaned forward slightly. Tianyi, too, seemed to focus her attention fully on Elder Ming, her expression showing a flicker of curiosity.
¡°When I lost my dantian,¡± he began, his voice steady but quieter, ¡°I was left with nothing. My cultivation, my place in the sect, my purpose. It all vanished in an instant. At first, I thought I could recover, find a way to rebuild what was broken. But the reality was cruel. No sect wants a crippled disciple. No city wants to harbor a fugitive.¡±
His eyes grew distant, his gaze fixed on something unseen. ¡°For months, I wandered from place to place, trying to find work, food, shelter. Anything that would give me a semblance of normalcy. But no one would take me in. My dantian was gone, and with it, any worth I might have had in their eyes. To them, I was a failure.¡±
¡°And then,¡± he continued, his voice softening, ¡°there was my sworn brother. The one who saved me, who fought against all odds to get me out of that place. I held on to hope that he was alive, that we would reunite. But after months of silence¡ of searching¡ I realized the truth. He was gone. Either he was captured, or¡ worse.¡±
Elder Ming closed his eyes briefly, as if to steady himself. ¡°I knew I couldn¡¯t stay. I had to move on, to go somewhere so far from the sects and the mainland that no one would think to look for me. And so, I fled to Tranquil Breeze Province, never looking back.¡±
The words hung heavy in the air, each one a fragment of a life shattered and painstakingly pieced back together. I struggled to find something to say, but Elder Ming¡¯s voice cut through my hesitation.
¡°When I arrived here, I was nothing more than a wanderer. I didn¡¯t plan to stay. This village was just another stop on a journey to nowhere.¡± He gave a faint smile, his gaze flicking to the garden visible through the window. ¡°But then a week passed. Then a month. Then a year. And before I knew it, decades had gone by. The people here¡ªthey gave me a place, even when I thought I no longer had one. And so, I found purpose again.¡±
¡°Elder Ming¡ I can¡¯t imagine how hard that must have been.¡±
He chuckled softly, shaking his head. ¡°You don¡¯t have to. You¡¯ve faced your own hardships, Kai. You¡¯ve felt the sting of powerlessness, the burden of responsibility. I see it in your eyes, the way you carry yourself. You think you¡¯re weak because you couldn¡¯t defeat Wei Long, because you had to rely on others. But let me tell you this: strength is not measured by victories alone.¡±
I frowned, his words stirring something deep within me. ¡°Then¡ how do you measure it?¡±
Elder Ming set his cup down, his gaze steady as he met mine. ¡°By the choices you make when all seems lost. By the people you protect, even at great cost to yourself.¡±
My hands clenched into fists, hard enough where I wouldn''t have been surprised it bled.
¡°I¡ I want to be stronger,¡± I admitted. ¡°Fighting Wei Long... I realized just how I underestimated him. If Feng Wu and Tian Zhan had been a minute late, then I would''ve died. I want to become strong, strong enough to stand with my own feet. Not just for me, but for the village. For everyone who stood with me today.¡±
Elder Ming¡¯s smile grew faintly, a flicker of approval shining through his otherwise tired features. He nodded slowly as if weighing my words against some unseen scale. ¡°And I feel I''ve failed you by not sharing all that I could. Let''s change that together."
I tilted my head questioningly.
"I''ve held back these teachings out of fear¡ªfear of revisiting old wounds, fear of what might happen if I let the past resurface. But perhaps it''s time I let go of that fear for the sake of your future.¡±
I straightened, his words catching me off guard. ¡°Elder Ming, you¡¯ve done more than anyone could ask. I wouldn¡¯t even be where I am without your guidance.¡±
He raised a hand, silencing me gently. ¡°And yet, it hasn¡¯t been enough. Your fight against Wei Long made something clear to me. You¡¯re ready. Ready for more than just cultivation exercises and simple techniques. You need a foundation strong enough to stand against the world.¡±
"What do you mean?¡±
Elder Ming leaned forward, his expression contemplative. ¡°I¡¯m going to teach you everything I know. My martial arts, my techniques, the principles of my former sect. Including the Heavenly Flame Mantra.¡±
The name struck like a spark igniting dry tinder. I stared at him, my breath catching. ¡°Really?"
He nodded, his gaze turning distant, as if he were looking back through time. ¡°Yes. The Heavenly Flame Mantra was the core style of our sect. I want to teach you what I know of it. Understand, Kai, that my knowledge is incomplete. I was still a third-class disciple when my dantian was destroyed. I never reached the later stages of the art myself. But I can give you the principles, the foundation upon which you can build your own path. My sworn brother gave everything to save me. He believed in a future I could no longer see. Passing on this mantra, incomplete as it is, is my way of ensuring that his spirit endures.¡±
The idea of learning the Heavenly Flame Mantra ignited a flicker of hope in me.
This might be the answer¡ªthe missing piece I¡¯d been searching for. Against Wei Long, I could defend, evade, and endure, but I couldn¡¯t strike back with enough force to make a difference. My techniques were solid defensively, but offense? I had nothing that could tip the scales.
If Elder Ming¡¯s martial art could bridge that gap, it might be exactly what I needed.
I clenched my fists, the warmth of Tianyi¡¯s earlier healing still faintly lingering in my chest. ¡°I don¡¯t want to just endure anymore, I want to stand on my own, to fight for this village and everyone who believes in me. If the Heavenly Flame Mantra can help me do that¡ªhelp me protect them¡ªthen I¡¯ll do whatever it takes.¡±
Then Tianyi, sitting quietly for the entirety of the conversation, spoke up.
¡°Can I learn too?¡±
154. The Butterfly and the Snow
The days that followed were a whirlwind of training, though not in the way I¡¯d anticipated. Elder Ming¡¯s lessons were rigorous, his sharp eyes catching every flaw in my stances and every hesitation in my strikes. He corrected me tirelessly, his words precise, his movements deliberate. For the first time, I began to feel the edges of the Heavenly Flame Mantra take shape in my hands.
Not just a technique, but a principle, a rhythm.
Tianyi, however, was another story.
At first, she had tried to follow along with Elder Ming¡¯s instructions. She mimicked the stances and movements with her usual grace, but it quickly became clear that something was off.
Elder Ming¡¯s style, born from years of human cultivation and training, clashed with Tianyi¡¯s very nature. Where I stumbled through footwork drills, Tianyi glided effortlessly, her steps so light they barely disturbed the ground beneath her. Her strikes, though precise, lacked the deliberate structure Elder Ming wanted.
¡°She¡¯s¡ not learning,¡± I admitted one evening, my voice hesitant as I watched her move through another set of drills. Her movements were elegant, beautiful even, but there was something almost too instinctive about them. Like she wasn¡¯t truly learning but simply doing.
Elder Ming nodded thoughtfully, his arms crossed as he observed. ¡°She¡¯s not like you, Kai. Her body, her mind, even her instincts... they¡¯re shaped by her nature as a butterfly spirit beast. Her style of movement and combat is inherently optimized, honed not through training but through her very existence.¡±
¡°So¡ what do we do?¡± I asked, glancing at Tianyi. She stood off to the side, her expression as unreadable as ever, though I caught a faint tilt of her head as if she knew we were discussing her.
¡°We adapt,¡± Elder Ming said simply. ¡°Tianyi¡¯s strength doesn¡¯t lie in following human methods. Teaching her in the same way as you would be a waste of her talents. Instead, we¡¯ll make her your sparring partner.¡±
I blinked. ¡°Sparring partner?¡±
¡°She¡¯s faster than you,¡± Elder Ming pointed out, his tone matter-of-fact. ¡°Stronger, too. And her instincts are sharp. By fighting her, you¡¯ll learn to adapt, to overcome an opponent who is naturally superior in many ways. And for her, the challenge will force her to think creatively. She¡¯ll learn by doing.¡±
And thus, leads me to today.
I narrowly dodged, Tianyi¡¯s outstretched leg brushing past my shoulder as I twisted to evade her strike. The motion sent a sharp jolt through my ribs, a grim reminder of Wei Long¡¯s attack. My balance wavered for a split second, just long enough for her to capitalize on my hesitation.
My hands came up instinctively, open palms glowing faintly red¡ªthe early manifestation of the Heavenly Flame Mantra. The technique was still far from complete in my hands. Where the flames should have seared with blistering intensity, my palms merely radiated a feeble warmth. Barely enough to stave off the cold. Compared to my established fighting style, it felt like I was a step behind, trying to incorporate offense into my usually defensive style.
Still, it was progress. And sometimes, things have to be worse before they can be better.
I thrust my palm forward in a counterstrike, aiming for her center. The broad surface of my hand was designed to deliver maximum impact, a key principle of the Heavenly Flame Mantra. But Tianyi was already gone, her movements impossibly quick. She twisted mid-air, her foot snapping out in a vicious kick that caught me square in the jaw.
The world spun as I was launched backward, skidding to a stop near the edge of the courtyard. Stars danced in my vision as I groaned, rubbing my jaw.
¡°Too slow,¡± Tianyi said simply, her tone calm, almost bored. With careful slits added to the back of her robe courtesy of Lan-Yin, she was able unfold her wings freely.
The butterfly-human hovered where she¡¯d landed, her stance relaxed yet poised, as if ready to strike again at a moment¡¯s notice.
Laughter erupted from the sidelines. I turned my head, still dazed, to see Wang Jun and Lan-Yin sitting cross-legged nearby, clearly enjoying the show.
¡°You¡¯ll never land a hit at this rate!¡± Wang Jun called out, grinning. His arms were folded, the bruises from his last sparring match with Elder Ming still visible. ¡°You need to keep her grounded, Kai. Try dragging her back down to our level.¡±
Lan-Yin snorted, adjusting the linen wraps around her wrists. ¡°Good luck with that. I¡¯ve seen feathers fall faster than her.¡±
I shot them both a glare, which only made them laugh harder. It wasn¡¯t unusual to see them here these days. Since the incident with Wei Long, they¡¯d thrown themselves into training with a fervor that rivaled my own. Elder Ming¡¯s courtyard had become something of a hub, with Wang Jun hammering away at physical techniques while Lan-Yin honed her precision and footwork late into the night.
¡°I don¡¯t see either of you jumping in to help!¡± I shot back, dragging myself to my feet.
¡°Someone has to keep morale up!¡± Wang Jun retorted, gesturing grandly to himself and Lan-Yin. ¡°Think of us as your cheering section.¡±
¡°We¡¯ll jump in when you¡¯re done,¡± Lan-Yin said. ¡°You¡¯re not the only one who needs to be ready next time.¡±
Her words struck a chord, and I felt a flicker of determination reignite. I squared my stance, raising my glowing palms again.
Tianyi¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change, but I caught the faintest tilt of her head, like she was curious about what I¡¯d do next.
¡°Alright,¡± I muttered, mostly to myself. ¡°Let¡¯s try this again.¡±Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.
Tianyi didn¡¯t wait. She blurred into motion, darting toward me like a shadow. But this time, I was ready. Or as ready as I could be. As she closed in, I focused not on her form but on her rhythm, the slight shifts in her movements that hinted at her next strike.
Her foot lashed out in a sweeping kick, aiming for my ribs, but this time, I was prepared. I pivoted on my back foot, twisting just enough to avoid the full force of her strike. My open palm shot out instinctively, catching her ankle in midair. The faint red glow of the Heavenly Flame Mantra shimmered against her pale skin, and though the heat wasn¡¯t enough to burn, it was enough to make contact meaningful.
The moment I caught her, her momentum shifted. Tianyi, ever the opportunist, used the leverage of her caught leg to swing herself upward. Her other leg snapped around my shoulders, locking me into a straddle as her weight bore down.
I staggered slightly, trying to keep my balance, but she clung to me like a stubborn vine.
¡°It¡¯s warm,¡± she said, her voice carrying a rare note of delight as she adjusted her position on my shoulders. Her arms wrapped around my head, pulling me into what felt more like a hug than a sparring maneuver. ¡°I like it.¡±
The courtyard fell silent for a beat, the only sound my labored breathing as I tried to process what had just happened.
Then Wang Jun¡¯s laughter shattered the quiet.
¡°Is that it? Is that the big finishing move?¡± he howled, clutching his sides. ¡°Kai¡¯s ultimate technique: the warm hug!¡±
Lan-Yin doubled over, laughing so hard she nearly fell off her seat. ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s how sparring works!¡±
I scowled, shifting awkwardly in the position. She was extremely light, but it made moving difficult with her blocking my vision. ¡°This¡ still counts as a win, right?¡± I said, looking to Elder Ming for some form of validation.
The old man¡¯s lips twitched, though he masked it quickly. ¡°Technically, she stopped attacking,¡± he said, his tone deliberately neutral. ¡°But I wouldn¡¯t call it a victory.¡±
Tianyi, still perched on my shoulders, rested her chin on my head. ¡°A win is a win,¡± she said, completely unbothered. "This disciple has learned well."
I sighed. Perhaps she''d been reading too many of Liang Feng''s novels.
The garden was quiet under the soft glow of moonlight, save for the rustling of leaves in the breeze and the occasional chirp of crickets. Tianyi stood just outside the greenhouse, her wings faintly twitching as her sharp eyes scanned the area. The faint hum of energy emanating from the plants within filled the air, a soothing counterpoint to the chill that crept into the night.
Windy coiled around her shoulders, his body a reassuring weight. His scales brushed against her neck as he shifted closer, his intent clear: warmth.
¡°Cold?¡± she murmured, her voice barely audible. Reaching up, she ran a hand over his smooth, shimmering form. He hissed softly in confirmation.
A sudden movement caught her attention. A bird was pecking at the glass of the greenhouse, its beak tapping insistently against the surface. Tianyi narrowed her eyes, irritation flickering to life. With a flick of her wrist, a sharp gust of wind spiraled out, scattering the creature. It squawked in alarm before taking off into the dark, its wings beating hurriedly.
¡°Stay away,¡± she muttered, her gaze lingering on the spot where it had been.
She sighed, pulling her thoughts back from the distraction. But her attention wandered again as faint voices drifted from the shop, carried on the stillness of the night. She didn¡¯t intend to eavesdrop, but the clarity of the sound made it impossible not to hear.
¡°Are you leaving so soon, Tian Zhan?¡± Kai¡¯s voice, familiar and earnest, reached her ears.
Tianyi tilted her head slightly. Something about him lingered in her memory, though the details were vague. Leader? No, not quite. There was an air of authority about him, but it wasn¡¯t a title she understood. But she knew one thing.
The man was strong. Indescribably so.
¡°Yes,¡± Tian Zhan replied, his voice calm and even. ¡°There¡¯s much to do, and this partnership hinges on results. If your pills prove effective, the Whispering Wind Sect will provide the support you need. Until then, it¡¯s a matter of trust.¡±
¡°I understand,¡± Kai said. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure they¡¯re the best I can produce.¡±
¡°That,¡± Tian Zhan said, a faint trace of approval in his tone, ¡°is the attitude you should have. Focus your efforts there.¡±
Another voice entered the conversation, one Tianyi recognized as Feng Wu. ¡°I¡¯ll remain here for now. The Verdant Lotus Sect will need a full report, and I¡¯ll await their instructions. In the meantime, I¡¯ll oversee things here.¡±
The conversation dissolved into the background of Tianyi¡¯s thoughts. Whatever arrangements the immortals were making, they didn¡¯t concern her directly. At least, not yet.
She trusted Kai would handle things well.
Turning away from the courtyard, she drifted closer to the greenhouse. The faint warmth radiating from within drew her, a stark contrast to the night¡¯s chill. The light, the energy, the hum of life... it all felt familiar, almost comforting. Windy adjusted his coil again, squeezing gently as if sensing her unease.
Stronger. The thought resonated within her, unspoken but insistent. She had to be stronger.
The sparring sessions with Kai were something, but they weren¡¯t enough. The memory of Wei Long¡¯s attack lingered in her mind, a vivid, visceral thing. She could still feel the pressure of his hands around her neck, the sharp edge of his intent to kill. The faint, hairline fractures on her skin were a reminder, fragile and stubborn.
She had survived, yes, but survival wasn¡¯t enough.
Tianyi perched on the wooden fence, her knees bent and heels raised, balanced effortlessly on the balls of her feet. Frost had begun to edge the wooden posts beneath her, sparkling faintly in the moonlight. Around her, the garden lay still, blanketed in the quiet of the season.
Windy stirred on her shoulders, coiling tighter for warmth. She could feel his scales against her neck, cool but reassuring, and absently ran her fingers along his back. Her breath left faint wisps of vapor in the air, vanishing almost as quickly as they formed. The stillness of the night was comforting, but her thoughts were restless.
The soft creak of wood broke the silence, and her gaze shifted toward the shop. Tian Zhan emerged, his steps steady and unhurried. The pale light of the lanterns cast long shadows across his form, highlighting the sharp lines of his face.
Her indifferent eyes met his as he passed. They held each other¡¯s gaze for a moment, hers calm and unblinking, his sharp and measuring. His own gaze was sharp, piercing even, like a bird of prey surveying its surroundings. Not like the small, bothersome birds that pecked at the greenhouse, but the kind she remembered from her time as a butterfly, hunters that stalked creatures far larger than herself.
Then, as suddenly as it began, the moment broke. Tian Zhan inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment and turned away, the faint crunch of frost beneath his boots the only sound as he moved to leave.
Something about his presence, however, tugged at her thoughts. Almost on instinct, she called out, her voice cutting through the stillness.
¡°What makes you so strong?¡±
The question escaped her before she fully realized she¡¯d spoken. Her voice cut cleanly through the stillness of the garden.
Tian Zhan paused mid-step, clearly caught off guard. Slowly, he turned back, one brow raised, his expression a mixture of amusement and curiosity.
¡°You know,¡± he began, his voice carrying an easy nonchalance, ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t like me. You¡¯ve been staring at me every time I¡¯ve been here, and not once did you say a word. Honestly, I figured you were plotting something.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t dislike you,¡± Tianyi replied evenly. Her wings shifted slightly, catching the faint glow of moonlight. ¡°You¡¯re... interesting.¡±
Tian Zhan blinked, then chuckled, his breath fogging in the cold air. ¡°Fair enough. Alright, then. You want to know what makes me strong?¡±
She nodded, her gaze steady, but her wings stilled, as if mirroring her focus.
He crossed his arms, leaning back slightly as he mulled over her question. ¡°It¡¯s individuality,¡± he said at last. ¡°The overwhelming belief in being my own person. If you spend your life chasing others, trying to mimic their paths, you¡¯ll never be more than a shadow of what they are. You¡¯ll never become more than that.¡±
Tianyi tilted her head slightly, her fingers brushing Windy¡¯s coiled form as she considered his words. ¡°Do you think I can do it too?¡±
Tian Zhan¡¯s surprise was evident for a moment before it gave way to a wide grin. ¡°You? I¡¯d say you don¡¯t have much of a choice. Look at yourself. There¡¯s no one else like you. Probably never will be. You¡¯re already one-of-a-kind. That means your path has to be your own, whether you like it or not.¡±
Tianyi¡¯s gaze lowered briefly, her fingers trailing over the faint marks on her neck. The memory of Wei Long¡¯s strangling grip lingered there, a reminder of her near defeat.
¡°Good luck, butterfly,¡± Tian Zhan said with a casual wave as he turned away. ¡°I¡¯ll be looking forward to seeing what you do with it.¡±
His figure disappeared down the path, his silhouette swallowed by the growing shadows of the trees. Tianyi remained perched on the fence, her gaze lingering on the empty space where he had stood.
Above, the first flakes of snow began to drift down, light and soft, blanketing the garden in pristine white. The path before her was soon covered in a smooth, unbroken sheet of snow, blank and untouched. It stretched endlessly into the night, pale and shimmering in the faint moonlight.
Her lips curved into the faintest smile as she murmured to herself, ¡°Stronger.¡± Then, with Windy still coiled around her neck, she leapt lightly from the fence, her form blending into the quiet snowfall as she began to walk her path.
155. One Step Back, Two Steps Forward
Sweat dripped down my temple as I lunged forward, my palm alight with the faint red glow of the Heavenly Flame Mantra. The heat wasn¡¯t intense enough to burn, but it was enough to make the air shimmer faintly around my hand. I poured everything I had into the strike, aiming squarely for Feng Wu¡¯s chest.
And just like the first time we sparred, he sidestepped effortlessly.
Before I could recover, he pivoted and delivered a light tap to my back with his palm. A reminder that he could have ended the match there if he wanted to. I stumbled forward, catching myself before hitting the ground, and spun around to face him again. My frustration bubbled to the surface.
"You''re kidding me," I muttered, breathing hard. "This is just like last time. Are you even trying?"
Feng Wu smiled, his posture relaxed as if this was all just a warm-up for him. "Oh, I¡¯m trying, Kai. It¡¯s impressive you¡¯re even standing, let alone sparring, Kai. Not many people could take the kind of beating you did from Wei Long and be back to training days later. It¡¯s alright to be a step behind.¡±
His words stung, not because they were untrue, but because they were entirely accurate. I could feel it in every exchange. But it wasn¡¯t just that.
During our first spar, if it could really be called that¡ªthe gap between us had been insurmountable; his speed and finesse had made my every move feel clumsy and telegraphed. But now, even though my power, speed, and technique had undeniably improved, something else had changed.
Something I couldn¡¯t put my finger on.
I lunged again, this time feinting left before spinning into a sweeping strike with my glowing palm. Feng Wu leaned back effortlessly, evading the arc of my attack with a movement so smooth it was almost insulting. As I pressed forward, trying to follow up, I noticed it.
He wasn¡¯t reacting to me.
He was moving before I attacked.
"That¡¯s not possible," I muttered under my breath. He wasn''t clairvoyant.
I briefly wondered if it was the growing pains of learning a new martial art style. Initiating the offense, channeling my qi into my palms¡ªit was difficult. Especially when Elder Ming forbade me from using my main techniques until I digested the Heavenly Flame Mantra. Even with my added options for offense, using a new martial art would have its drawbacks.
But to test this, I threw another punch, this time aiming low. He stepped aside again, his body already positioned to counter with a swift kick that stopped just short of my knee.
Frustration boiled over as I dropped to the ground, my back hitting the packed dirt with a soft thud. My chest heaved as I stared up at the cloudy sky, trying to swallow my irritation. "Alright, I give. How? How are you doing this? You weren¡¯t this strong last time we fought, but somehow, you¡¯ve gotten even stronger, faster than I did. Did you take a pill? Found enlightenment? Achieved mind-body unification?"
Feng Wu crouched beside me, his expression thoughtful. "That would be nice, but no. I¡¯ve just been working on something new,"
"Something new?"
He nodded. "You¡¯re not the only one who¡¯s been training hard, Kai. While you¡¯ve been here in Gentle Wind Village, I¡¯ve taken a break from missions to hone my Memory Palace."
I sat up, intrigued despite my irritation. "Memory Palace? What does that have to do with dodging my attacks like you¡¯re reading my mind?"
"It¡¯s not mind-reading," he corrected, crossing his arms. "But I¡¯ve adapted the Memory Palace into something¡ more practical for combat. I completed a quest recently, which granted me a skill: Combat Anticipation Array."
"Combat¡ Anticipation Array?" I repeated, the name rolling awkwardly off my tongue.
He nodded again, his expression turning serious. "The skill uses the principles of the Memory Palace. By visualizing combat scenarios and storing them in my mind, I¡¯ve built a library of movements and counterattacks. During a fight, my mind reflexively draws on that library to predict the most likely attack based on my opponent¡¯s stance, rhythm, and intent. It¡¯s not clairvoyance," he added quickly, seeing my skeptical look. "It¡¯s just experience, applied faster than I could consciously process."
I stared at him, trying to wrap my head around the implications. "So, you¡¯re saying it¡¯s like¡ simulating the fight in your head while it¡¯s happening?"
"Exactly," Feng Wu said, his lips quirking into a faint smile. "It¡¯s not perfect, of course. It¡¯s limited by my own knowledge and how much I¡¯ve trained. But it¡¯s sped up my reaction time immensely. I''ve gotten ahead of Lan Sheng in our spars, and he can''t figure it out. It¡¯s been frustrating him to no end."
The way he described it reminded me of my Refinement Simulation Technique, which allowed me to visualize alchemical processes in real-time and adjust on the fly. The concept was different, but the core idea was the same: using mental visualization as a tool to anticipate and adapt.
And before this, I already took his advice, learning how to visualize opponents and using them to practice within the confines of my mind. But what he was describing was combining those two together.
"The Memory Palace¡" I murmured, more to myself than to him. "It¡¯s not just a storage method. It¡¯s the foundation for so much more."
Feng Wu raised an eyebrow. "Figured that out, did you? The Memory Palace isn¡¯t the end goal. It¡¯s what you can do with it that matters. For me, it¡¯s Combat Anticipation. For you¡ well, who knows? But I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if there are dozens of techniques that can stem from it."
My mind raced with possibilities. If Feng Wu could develop something like Combat Anticipation Array from the Memory Palace, what else could I create? Could I adapt the Refinement Simulation Technique into something that applied to combat? Or even further refine my alchemical processes with new insights?
The familiar hum of the Heavenly Interface echoed faintly in my mind, and a notification blinked in the corner of my vision.
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Quest: Beyond the Memory Palace
- Successfully evade or counter 10 different attacks by predicting their trajectories using a simulated visual map in real time. (0/10)
- Land 5 precise hits on a moving opponent using openings simulated beforehand. (0/5)Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.
- Use the Refinement Simulation technique on an alchemical reaction mid-combat to create an advantage. (0/1)
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A grin spread across my face as I stood, brushing the dirt off my robes. "Looks like I¡¯ve got my next challenge."
Feng Wu¡¯s smirk mirrored my own. "Good. Because if you don¡¯t close this gap soon, Han Wei and Li Na will leave you in the dust. They''re training just as hard as you are."
We made our way back to the shop, the chilly air cooling the sweat on my skin as we passed through the snow-laden clearing. My eyes drifted toward the distant hill where Tianyi and Windy were sparring¡ªor at least, something resembling sparring. Windy coiled and darted like a striking whip, his white scales gleaming against the snowy backdrop, while Tianyi flitted with an almost playful air, her movements fluid and precise. They were locked in a strange, mesmerizing dance, as if testing each other¡¯s limits without real intent to harm.
I shook my head, a smirk tugging at my lips. Even my spirit beasts were training harder than I was. Perhaps I''d enlist their help to complete this quest.
Inside the shop, the warmth of the hearth greeted us, its gentle crackle a welcome contrast to the biting cold outside. I busied myself with the teapot, setting it on the counter as Feng Wu shrugged off his outer cloak and leaned casually against the wall.
Placing the finished leaves into the teapot, I poured the boiling water over them and brought the tea to the table. Feng Wu took a cup without hesitation, sipping thoughtfully as he sank into the chair across from me.
"So," I said, leaning back in my seat, "what¡¯s the word from the Verdant Lotus Sect?"
Feng Wu set his cup down, his expression shifting to something more serious. "They¡¯ve agreed to the partnership. The sect will be sending resources and personnel to reinforce the village and set up accommodations for cultivators. It¡¯s a big step forward."
I smirked, already picturing the reactions when the sect members arrived. "They¡¯re going to be in for a surprise. Li Wei¡¯s been working on the expansion since yesterday. He¡¯s already laid out the foundation for it."
Feng Wu raised an eyebrow. "Li Wei? You mean the boy who made your greenhouse?¡±
"The master carpenter," I corrected, my tone exaggerated and mock-haughty. "Kid¡¯s a genius. Second only to myself, of course."
Feng Wu chuckled. "Second only to you? I didn¡¯t realize carpentry was part of your skillset."
I waved him off. "That¡¯s not the point. The point is, this village is full of talent. Take Wang Jun, for example. He¡¯s probably the second-best blacksmith our age in the province!"
"Second-best? Out of how many?" Feng Wu asked, his voice laced with amusement. "Let me guess: you know exactly two blacksmiths, and the other is better."
¡°Don¡¯t nitpick the details!¡± I shot back, though I couldn¡¯t stop the grin creeping across my face. I wonder how Tao Ren was doing. "The Verdant Lotus Sect is lucky to invest in Gentle Wind Village. We¡¯ve got talent, ambition, and drive. They won¡¯t regret it."
Feng Wu lifted his cup in a mock toast. "Here¡¯s hoping you¡¯re right. But regardless, we won''t let Gentle Wind bear all the costs associated with expansion. The Azure Silk Trading Company has many connections. And I''ll be helping to escort them here."
As he drained the last of his tea, setting the cup down with a satisfied sigh. He leaned back in his chair, his relaxed demeanor a stark contrast to the thoughts swirling in my mind.
As I watched him, something unspoken pressed against the back of my throat. It was easy to joke with Feng Wu, to trade jabs and talk about training like it was just another part of life. But the truth was, I owed him more than I could ever repay.
¡°I just realized,¡± I said, breaking the companionable silence. ¡°I haven¡¯t properly thanked you, one to one.¡±
Feng Wu raised an eyebrow, his expression curious. ¡°For what?¡±
I shifted in my seat, glancing at the teapot as if it could help me organize my thoughts. ¡°For everything,¡± I said at last. ¡°Coming here when the village was in danger. Standing by my side when Wei Long attacked. Staying here, training with me, teaching me. I wouldn¡¯t have made it through any of this without you. Or if you hadn''t recruited me for the Gauntlet.¡±
He tilted his head, studying me like I was an odd puzzle he hadn¡¯t quite solved yet. ¡°You don¡¯t owe me anything, Kai.¡±
¡°I do,¡± I insisted, my voice firm. ¡°You¡¯ve done so much for me, for this village. It¡¯s a debt I¡¯ll probably never be able to pay back in my lifetime.¡±
Feng Wu stood slowly, slinging his cloak over one shoulder. His expression softened, a rare flicker of seriousness crossing his usually laid-back face. ¡°Kai, if you spend your life trying to repay everyone who¡¯s ever helped you, you¡¯ll never have time to walk your own path.¡±
I blinked, caught off guard by his words.
¡°It¡¯s not about paying it back,¡± he continued, pulling the cloak around his shoulders. ¡°It¡¯s about paying it forward. Take what you¡¯ve gained and use it to help someone else. Build something that lasts. That¡¯s how you honor the people who¡¯ve stood by you.¡±
For a moment, his words hung in the air, settling over me like the gentle warmth of the shop¡¯s hearth. I opened my mouth to respond, but nothing came out. Instead, I just nodded.
¡°Pay it forward,¡± I murmured, more to myself than to him.
I chuckled despite myself, standing to follow him to the door. The cold air nipped at my skin as he stepped out into the snow-covered clearing, his figure sharp against the white landscape. He glanced back, his face softening into something almost contemplative.
¡°You¡¯ve got good people here, Kai. Don¡¯t forget to lean on them when you need to. And don¡¯t let me hear you¡¯re slacking off.¡±
¡°I won¡¯t,¡± I said, the corner of my mouth tugging upward. ¡°And Feng Wu?¡±
¡°Yes?¡±
¡°Have a safe trip.¡±
He smiled and raised a hand in farewell, his steps crunching through the snow as he walked away. I watched him disappear into the horizon, his figure fading into the quiet expanse of white.
The cold bit into my skin, and for a moment, I stood there, watching the snow fall softly around me.
The sunlight filtered through the clouds as I stepped into the garden, its warmth softening the lingering chill of the morning. The greenhouse stood proudly before me, its structure finally restored to its former glory. Inside, the plants were thriving once more, their vibrant energy filling the air with a subtle hum of life.
And just near the edge of the garden, a tiny golden shoot poked through the soil¡ªa bamboo sprout, its delicate form almost imperceptible but unmistakably there.
I smiled, letting out a breath I hadn¡¯t realized I¡¯d been holding. Progress. Small, but real.
Off in the distance, Tianyi and Windy¡¯s sparring continued, their figures darting and weaving in the snow-covered hills. Everyone was growing stronger. Recovering. Moving forward.
¡°Kai?¡± Lan-Yin¡¯s voice broke through my thoughts, pulling my attention back to the house. She stood in the doorway, her expression faintly troubled. ¡°I¡ I think something¡¯s wrong.¡±
"What is it? What¡¯s wrong?"
She waved me off, brushing a hand through her hair. "It¡¯s nothing serious. I¡¯ve just been feeling¡ nauseous. A little dizzy. It¡¯s probably nothing. But it''s getting hard to ignore."
Still, I ushered her inside, sitting her down at the table and brewing a fresh pot of tea. As she listed her symptoms, I couldn¡¯t help but fall into diagnostic mode, mentally running through the possibilities.
Dizziness. Fatigue. Nausea.
"Alright," I said, pulling a chair closer to her. "Let¡¯s break this down. When did it start?"
She furrowed her brow, resting her chin on her hand. "A few days ago, maybe? I didn¡¯t think much of it at first. Just figured I was tired."
"And the nausea?" I pressed, leaning forward slightly. "Does it come and go, or is it constant?"
"It¡¯s not constant," she replied. "Mostly in the mornings. Sometimes it fades by midday, but other times it sticks around. It¡¯s annoying, but not unbearable."
Morning nausea. I filed that away. "Any other symptoms? Dizziness, you said. What about appetite? Any changes?"
Lan-Yin shrugged, looking faintly embarrassed. "I¡¯ve been hungrier than usual, but I thought it was just from training harder. Wang Jun keeps saying I need to eat more anyway, so I didn¡¯t think it was strange."
I nodded, suppressing a small smile at the mention of Wang Jun. "What about fatigue? Do you feel more tired than usual?"
She tilted her head, considering. "I guess? But again, I thought that was just training. Elder Ming has been working me harder lately, and I¡¯ve been pushing myself to catch up."
Fatigue. Hunger. Dizziness. Nausea. My mind sifted through possibilities, but something about her symptoms pulled at a distant memory. When was it? It was years ago, when Xiao Bao''s mom had...
"Lan-Yin," I began cautiously, setting the pot down with deliberate care. "Have you¡ noticed any other changes lately? Anything different in the past few months?"
She looked at me, her brow furrowing as she tried to make sense of the question. "What kind of changes?" she asked, her tone tinged with suspicion.
I rubbed the back of my neck, choosing my words carefully. "You mentioned feeling hungrier and more tired, but¡ have you had any other symptoms? Anything unusual?"
Lan-Yin¡¯s eyes narrowed, her tone sharpening. "Kai, if you have something to say, just say it."
I hesitated, my thoughts spinning. Could I really say it out loud? What if I was wrong? But the more I considered her symptoms, the clearer the answer became.
My voice dropped to a murmur, almost as if I were speaking to myself. "This reminds me of Xiao Bao¡¯s mom¡ when she was¡ª" I stopped myself short, glancing at her uncertainly.
Her eyes widened, her expression shifting rapidly from confusion to realization, then disbelief. "Kai Liu," she said, her voice dangerously calm. "What. Are. You. Suggesting?"
I swallowed hard, my hands raised defensively. "I¡ªI¡¯m not saying anything for sure, it¡¯s just¡ your symptoms¡ªthey¡¯re common for¡ pregnancy."
Her jaw dropped, and for a moment, she just stared at me, utterly speechless. Then, her voice rose sharply. "You think I¡¯m what?!"
The teapot rattled slightly on the table as I winced. "It¡¯s just a theory!" I said quickly, trying to backpedal. "I mean, I could be wrong, but¡ª"
I opened my mouth to respond but immediately shut it, realizing there was no winning this. Meanwhile, she buried her face in her hands, letting out a muffled sound of disbelief.
The silence that followed was thick and awkward. I sat frozen, my mind running through the consequences of this revelation. And one thought loomed above the rest.
How am I going to tell Wang Jun?
156. Calm Waters, Hidden Dragons
The chamber was dimly lit, the flickering light of a solitary candle casting elongated shadows along the rough stone walls. Elder Cheng moved silently to the first corner, his fingers deftly placing a talisman etched with complex symbols. The parchment fluttered briefly before adhering to the wall as if drawn by an unseen force.
"No chances," Elder Wei muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "Not with ears everywhere."
The other two elders mirrored the action in the remaining corners, each positioning their talismans with practiced precision. A subtle hum resonated through the room as the enchantments activated, sealing their conversation from any prying senses.
Elder Fang adjusted his robes, the fabric rustling softly, the sound precise and deliberate. "The barriers are secure," he confirmed, his eyes sweeping the room. He lingered briefly on each talisman, as if testing their strength with his gaze alone. "For now."
Elder Cheng took his seat at the low table in the center, the others following suit. He sighed heavily, the lines on his face deepening. "The barriers may hold, but our plans do not."
"Our search remains fruitless," Cheng continued, his voice a low rasp carrying years of tempered authority.
Elder Fang leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "We¡¯re too close to losing momentum," he said. "Each day, the forces around us grow bolder. The western forests already reek of corruption. A Bloodsoul Bloom¡ their arrogance knows no bounds."
Elder Xun scoffed, settling heavily into his seat, his thick arms crossed over a broad chest. His skin bore the faint, crisscrossed scars of someone well-acquainted with physical conflict, and his gaze carried a perpetual challenge, dismissive and piercing. He barked out a laugh, his scarred face twisting with disdain. "Demonic cultivators? Overgrown brats playing at power. A single fist would remind them why their kind rarely survives past infancy. If they want to reveal themselves, let them. I¡¯ll crush them myself."
"Perhaps," Elder Cheng mused, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "But even a cornered rat can bite. It''s best we avoid unnecessary entanglements. We can''t afford distractions."
Xun smirked, leaning back with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Let them bite. We¡¯ll crush their jaws while they try."
Elder Wei leaned forward, resting his forearms on the table as his sharp eyes flicked between his peers. "Grandstanding won¡¯t fix our problems. The Phoenix Tears remain inert without balance. We wouldn¡¯t even be in this wasteland if we¡¯d secured the Lunar Essence Yin Lotus before our departure."
Elder Fang¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line, his tone measured but cold. "And if we had stayed longer, we¡¯d be corpses. The Azure Sky Sect was already circling. We were lucky to escape with our lives."
A heavy silence settled in the room, broken only by the faint crackle of the candle. Each elder sat with their thoughts, the weight of past failure casting a shadow over the dimly lit space.
Elder Xun clenched his fists, his knuckles whitening. "So here we are," he growled. "Scrambling for beast cores like beggars."
The other elders turned their attention to the basket of beast cores provided by the Silent Moon. The glimmering pile, rich with latent power, should have been a treasure beyond measure. But to them, it was a reminder of their dependency, a crude patchwork solution to a greater problem.
Wei sneered, his tone dripping with disdain. "This region is a wasteland of mediocrity. What they call treasures wouldn¡¯t earn a second glance in the mainland. The ambient qi is weak, and resources scarce. Our qi stagnates, and without proper cultivation, our progress halts."
Elder Fang shot him a sharp look. "You would waste the Phoenix Tears then? They are for resurrection, for rebuilding from ruin¡ªnot for avoiding discomfort. Use it too soon, and what would we have risked our lives for to steal them?"
"Patience isn¡¯t merely a virtue; it¡¯s survival," Cheng said, his tone sharp, commanding attention. "Recklessness invites ruin. Have we forgotten Li Peng¡¯s end so quickly? His haste cost him more than his cultivation. It shattered our momentum. We cannot afford another failure like his."
The mention of their fallen comrade lingered, the room momentarily stilled.
"He thought consuming a fraction would bolster his strength," He recalled bitterly. "Instead, the unbridled yang qi tore him apart from within. And he was the most well-versed to handle yang qi among us, with his Nine Sun Flame technique."
Elder Fang''s eyes narrowed. "A harsh lesson. The Phoenix Tears are potent beyond measure. Without an equally powerful yin component, they are uncontrollable."
Elder Xun sighed heavily. "We keep gnashing our teeth over what we don¡¯t have. It¡¯s pathetic. This province may be a wasteland, but no land is truly barren. Somewhere, there¡¯s a herb, a beast, a technique that can tip the scales. Weak qi or not, we¡¯ll tear this place apart to find it."The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.
Elder Cheng¡¯s voice shifted, commanding again. "The Silent Moon Sect has proven useful. Their offerings keep us afloat, and their sect leader, Jun, is pliable. So long as he believes we are his greatest benefactors, their resources are ours."
"But dependency is not a strategy. Control is. And control requires more than strength. We¡¯ll hollow them out, and by the time they realize their mistake, the Silent Moon Sect will belong to us in all but name." Wei said.
Elder Fang raised an eyebrow. "Jun is ambitious. Ambition breeds betrayal."
"Then let him betray us. We¡¯ll break him when the time comes."
Elder Fang drummed his fingers lightly on the table, his expression contemplative. "It''s a waiting game, then. We lay low, strengthen ourselves as best we can, and continue the search for the yin component we need."
Elder Xun leaned forward, his scarred hands flattening against the table, his voice cutting through Fang''s calm suggestion. "Waiting? That¡¯s your grand plan? We¡¯re already at the mercy of the Silent Moon¡¯s scraps. If their sect leader decides to stop playing nice, where does that leave us?"
His eyes flicked toward the basket of beast cores as though the sight disgusted him. "They call this generosity. I call it leverage. Dependency makes my skin crawl."
Elder Cheng raised a hand, his tone even but firm. "And what would you propose, Xun? Charging blindly into the wilderness in search of a solution? Picking fights with demonic cultivators until one of them coughs up a miracle herb? Patience isn¡¯t complacency¡ªit¡¯s strategy."
The burly man''s jaw tightened, but he leaned back with a begrudging grunt. "Strategy or not, this place is a wasteland. We¡¯d better find something worthwhile soon, or we might as well pack up and leave."
Elder Wei¡¯s lips curved into a thin smile, his words calculated and precise. "Leave? And miss the opportunity to turn this backwater into the foundation of our resurgence? No, Xun. The Silent Moon Sect may think they¡¯ve gained powerful allies, but they¡¯ve made a mistake." He steepled his fingers, his eyes glinting with cold satisfaction. "With Jun as our puppet, we won¡¯t just use their resources¡ªwe¡¯ll hollow them out from within."
Elder Fang resumed, his tone measured. "Still, we cannot rely on the Silent Moon alone. If we were to orchestrate attacks on other sects, perhaps uncover the treasures they hoard, we might find the component we need. This province cannot be entirely destitute."
"Other sects? You mean the Whispering Wind Sect, don¡¯t you? They¡¯re supposedly the strongest in this region." Xun leaned forward, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "I¡¯d love to see their so-called elders stand against us. If their strength is anything like their disciples, it won¡¯t take much more than two of us to knock them down."
Wei chuckled darkly, his tone dripping with scorn. "Strength is relative, after all. Here, our skills are enough to send tremors through their foundations. They¡¯ll never see us coming."
The others laughed softly, their confidence palpable, each of them reveling in their perceived superiority.
Here, they were giants among insects.
Elder Fang raised an eyebrow. "An intriguing proposition, but such actions could unite the sects against us. We''d need a proper justification to avoid inciting an all-out war."
"Agreed," Cheng said, steepling his fingers. "One false move, and we¡¯ll find ourselves hunted across this province like cornered rats. Fabrication isn¡¯t enough; it must be flawless, irrefutable. If we falter, we¡¯ll have united the sects against us for nothing."
A slow smile spread across Elder Wei''s face. "A clever strategy. We eliminate potential threats, acquire valuable resources, and solidify our control."
Xun let his fingers trace the surface of the jade-inlaid table, his disdain barely concealed. "Look at this," he muttered, gesturing to the lavish furnishings around them. "Gold-plated walls, carved beams, incense burning like they¡¯re kings. No wonder this sect needed us. They¡¯re so busy polishing their treasures, they¡¯ve forgotten how to sharpen their blades."
Fang nodded, his tone colder now. "And that forgetfulness is exactly what makes them useful. But don¡¯t underestimate them. Ambition makes even dull blades dangerous when desperation sharpens them."
Cheng waved a hand dismissively. "Jun and his ilk will never have the strength or vision to challenge us. Without us, they¡¯ll remain minor players in this province. Let them think they¡¯re in control."
A murmur of satisfaction swept through the chamber, their expressions smug and at ease, every word thick with confidence bred from long years of survival and conquest. To them, these locals were little more than pawns in a much larger game, and the elders played it masterfully.
¡°Let them scramble,¡± Elder Xun muttered, his smirk widening. ¡°We have nothing to fear in this backwater.¡±
The elders shared a final glance, their smirks and knowing looks confirming an unspoken truth: they were untouchable.
As they plotted, their influence seeped outward, unnoticed by most. But not all eyes were blind to their ambition.
In a forgotten corner of the province, another force stirred, aware of the Silent Moon¡¯s growing shadow.
SCENE BREAK
The musty scent of ancient pages filled the bookstore, curling around the shelves and winding up to the dusty beams above. At the counter, the old bookkeeper, hunched and quiet, traced a finger over an open ledger, his eyes closed, yet aware.
The door creaked open, and a figure stepped inside, cutting through the silence. The bookkeeper¡¯s head turned, a smile spreading across his weathered face.
¡°Welcome,¡± he greeted warmly. ¡°How can I assist you?¡±
The figure paused, glancing over the dim shelves, before stepping forward. ¡°I¡¯m not here for books,¡± he said quietly. ¡°I come on behalf of the magistrate with a request.¡±
Request. The word held an unusual weight, a marked humility. In this province, the magistrate was second only to the sects, his power vast and unquestioned. He was not known for making requests. Orders, yes. Demands, perhaps, but a request was rare, a gesture that suggested both respect and necessity.
The old man, still hunched over the ledger, lifted his head ever so slightly, the faintest flicker of amusement in the lines of his expression. He gave a nod as though to himself, his smile faint but perceptive.
¡°Request, is it?¡± he murmured, his tone light yet penetrating. ¡°The magistrate is indeed a courteous man.¡±
The man¡¯s throat tightened inexplicably, his mouth going dry as he continued, ¡°It¡ It¡¯s a matter of great importance. I wouldn¡¯t be here otherwise.¡± He swallowed, his pulse a dull thud in his ears. ¡°The magistrate¡ asks for your assistance. Regarding the Silent Moon Sect.¡±
For a brief moment, the air in the room seemed to thicken, the sounds from the busy streets outside fading into silence. Though the old bookkeeper did nothing overt, it was as if the very atmosphere had shifted, pulled taut with a quiet, undeniable gravity.
The messenger¡¯s chest constricted, his words tangled as he struggled to continue. ¡°The¡ the sect has grown increasingly active, and the magistrate¡ he believes your expertise might¡¡±
The bookkeeper¡¯s eyes, clouded yet seeming to perceive something beyond sight, opened slowly. A flicker of something ancient, vast, and hidden sparked within them. The faint tremor of a breeze stirred the dust motes in the air, and for an instant, it was as though the world itself held its breath.
¡°So.¡± The old man¡¯s voice was soft, each word precise and deliberate, laced with a gentle edge of amusement. ¡°He seeks my counsel. What does he fear, exactly? That the Silent Moon¡¯s ambitions have grown too¡ bold?¡±
The man nodded, feeling as though some invisible weight pressed upon him. ¡°Yes. They¡¯ve amassed influence, seemingly unchecked, and the magistrate fears they¡¯ll soon reach beyond their bounds. We suspect the elders they recruited originate from the main continent.¡±
The old man nodded thoughtfully, his fingers resuming their quiet, rhythmic tracing over the spine of the ledger. ¡°Very well,¡± he murmured, as if to himself. ¡°A request from the magistrate is no small thing. Tell the magistrate I shall consider it. But also remind him that I am no tool to be summoned when convenient.¡±
The air lightened then, and the messenger¡¯s breath returned to him. He nodded, almost too eagerly, feeling as though he¡¯d been dismissed from an unseen trial.
¡°Thank you,¡± he managed, bowing slightly. ¡°I will convey your words.¡±
With a final nod, the messenger turned, eager to escape the oppressive stillness of the bookstore.
END OF VOLUME 3
157. Winters Embrace
The winter¡¯s breath clawed at my cheeks the moment I stepped outside, biting through the heavy layers of the Iron Boar cloak and bracers crafted by Wang Jun. The thick, insulated leather felt sturdy, a shield against the season¡¯s fury, but their weight was something I was still getting used to.
The wind howled, its sharpness carrying an unnatural chill. By all rights, the worst of winter should have been behind us. Instead, it clung tighter, thickening the air and layering the landscape in snow so deep my boots sank with every step. It wasn¡¯t just the cold it was the weight of it, pressing down on everything like a silent warning.
I paused at the edge of my porch, scanning the village. Gentle Wind Village had weathered the month well, all things considered. The preparations were coming along steadily, with new structures rising on foundations Li Wei had designed and laid before the first heavy snow. The extra supplies and seeds sent by Feng Wu¡¯s sect were a blessing, easing the strain of rebuilding after Narrow Stone Peak. Still, their absence lingered in my mind, a shadow that refused to leave.
The Heavenly Flame Mantra had been another focus of my days. Training in its movements, channeling qi through my palms, and being forbidden from utilizing the Rooted Banyan Stance or the Bamboo Reprisal Counter made it difficult. Yet, there were victories, small sparks of progress that kept me going, like the moment I first felt the searing heat manifest without trembling, steady and controlled, instead of a fleeting flicker of warmth.
|
Heavenly Flame Mantra (Level 1):
A martial style that channels the essence of fire into the cultivator¡¯s attacks. The Heavenly Flame Mantra infuses the cultivator''s strikes with searing heat, generating flames that radiate outward from their body. Each movement embodies the principles of fire: aggressive, adaptable, and consuming.
Next Stage: Radiant Flame Mantra
Requirements:
Heavenly Flame Mantra Proficiency - Level 10
Inflict at least 50 successful strikes using flame-imbued techniques.
Sustain the mantra for a total of 30 hours.
|
I trusted Elder Ming''s guidance, and only ever practiced my techniques separately. In time, I''d become proficient enough to use them both.
I tightened the cloak around me and trudged toward the greenhouse. Its structure stood resilient against the frost, its translucent walls glowing faintly with the life it sheltered. Inside, the temperature was warm and welcoming, a contrast to the icy world outside.
My gaze wandered over rows of vibrant plants, their colors defying the season. Deep greens, fiery reds, and bright yellows filled the space due to the hybrids I had cultivated. Leaves twisted into unfamiliar shapes, stems bore unexpected fruits... And vegetables.
And at the very edge of the greenhouse stood the Golden Bamboo, a single stalk rising above the rest, its golden sheen shimmering under the filtered light. It was taller than I remembered, its growth almost unnatural in its speed. The thought brought a small smile to my face.
The memory of that quest resurfaced; how I had struggled to figure out how to elicit its growth.
My initial attempts had been met with frustration, thinking the lack of sunlight was the problem. But then I realized yang energy wasn¡¯t limited to the sun. Not for me, at least.
By infusing it with the essence of plants like Sunfire Blade Grass and ginseng, I had found a way to nourish the bamboo despite the winter''s efforts. The technique wasn¡¯t perfect, but it worked, and the quest rewarded me with a Technique Token for my efforts.
The bamboo¡¯s rapid growth under essence infusion hinted at the potential I hadn¡¯t yet fully explored. Each day it stretched taller, its presence commanding attention like a beacon amidst the other hybrids. The process of sustaining its growth had become a delicate dance, feeding it just enough energy to thrive without overwhelming its natural balance.
Despite the harshness of the season, it thrived.
And soon, I''d be able to harvest it.
My footsteps carried me further into the greenhouse, each step a reminder of how much had changed. With every sprouting hybrid, every repaired fence, and every snow-dusted roof standing firm, hope felt less like an illusion and more like a certainty.
But winter wasn¡¯t done with us yet. The chill outside had grown sharper, and the snow deeper. Something in the air felt wrong, as though the season itself had turned hostile. For now, though, the garden was thriving, and the village was safe.
And yet, as I stood amidst the thriving life of my greenhouse, a thought lingered. Would it be enough? Would I be enough when the next storm came?
|
HEAVENLY INTERFACE: KAI LIU
PERK(S):
Interface Manipulator - Allows manipulation of the Heavenly Interface and access to special features.
Dao Pioneer - Grants a unique status softens the rigid thresholds that usually constrain skill acquisition and evolution, allowing for more fluid and spontaneous development of skills and cultivation techniques.
Race: Human
Vitality: Sufficient
PRIMARY
Affinity - Wood and Fire
Cultivation Rank: Qi Initiation - Rank 1
QI: Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 5 (...)
MIND: Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 2 (...)
BODY: Mortal Realm - Rank 5 (...)
SKILLS
Spiritual Herbalism - 6 (...)
Nature''s Attunement - 6 (...)
Accelerated Reading - 9 (...)
Cultivation Techniques:
Rooted Banyan Stance - 4 (...)
Crimson Lotus Purification - 1 (...)
Bamboo Reprisal Counter - 1 (...)
Memory Palace Technique - 1 (...)
Refinement Simulation Technique - 1 (...)
Heavenly Flame Mantra - 1(...)
Currency:
Technique Token - 2
|
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
I shook my head, trying to dispel the doubts before they could take root. Worry wouldn¡¯t cultivate strength. It never did. Action would.
It was easy to forget when I was surrounded by so many exceptional people, but my overall rank was at Qi Initiation Stage. Above average for a third-class disciple. Even though it was carried by my comparably large reserve of qi, it didn''t change I was certainly a cultivator. Physical training and recovering through the use of pills and Tianyi''s power allowed my body to breakthrough into the final stage of the mortal realm.
I stretched out my hands and summoned the Heavenly Flame Mantra. Heat surged through my body, pooling in my palms before erupting into a searing glow. The faint red glow danced along my fingers, their warmth an anchor in the biting cold of my thoughts. With Elder Ming''s support and my continuous efforts, I''ve developed my affinity for fire. Although it wasn''t innate like my affinity for wood, it meant that my training in Elder Ming''s martial art was having an impact on my cultivation.
"No room for hesitation. Keep moving forward." I murmured to myself.
I extinguished the technique and set to work, tending to the plants and checking their vitality. It was a careful process, ensuring each hybrid received just the right balance of care and essence infusion. When the last vine was supported and the final stalk watered, I stepped back, satisfied for now.
|
Quest: Mastery of Spiritual Plant Cultivation
- Cultivate and grow fifty viable and different plant hybrids. (48/50)
|
I was almost done with my quest. But finding the last two possible combinations had been difficult.
But today, I''d get another hybrid down.
The chill hit me again as I exited the greenhouse and made my way back to the house. Inside, the warmth was welcoming, and the scent of dried herbs hanging near the hearth lingered in the air. I crossed the room to a low shelf, retrieving a jar of rice seeds. Elder Wen had given them freely, even after stealing his horse to kidnap Zhao Wen.
¡°Kai,¡± a voice called softly from across the room. I turned to see Tianyi, her lithe form draped in her human guise. She sat near the window, her posture calm but her gaze piercing. ¡°Are you working again?¡±
Her tone carried more emotion than before; curiosity, maybe even a hint of amusement. She was becoming more expressive by the day, her growth as a person as startling as her martial prowess.
¡°Just a little,¡± I replied, setting the jar on the workbench. ¡°And I¡¯ll need you and Windy to protect me while I work. You know, from marauding bandits or roving snow demons.¡±
¡°Snow demons?¡± she repeated. ¡°I see no demons, but if they come, I will defend this garden.¡± She paused, then added, ¡°May I watch this time?¡±
¡°Sure.¡± I waved her over as I began preparing the jar. ¡°It¡¯s not the most exciting thing, but feel free.¡±
She approached, her movements as fluid as ever. Windy, coiled tightly on a windowsill nearby, hissed softly as we passed. His temperament had grown pricklier in the cold, his usual grace replaced by a moody vigilance. I gave him a wide berth, letting him brood in peace.
¡°This,¡± I began, gesturing to the jar of rice seeds, ¡°is the beginning of something new. The process isn¡¯t complicated, but it took a lot of trial and error to figure out.¡±
Tianyi leaned in, her sharp eyes tracking my movements as I unscrewed the jar and spread the seeds across the workbench. ¡°Why start with seeds?¡± she asked, her tone genuinely curious.
¡°Because it¡¯s easier to integrate new essence while the plant is still in its potential stage,¡± I explained. ¡°Fully grown plants have established structures, and while you can still infuse them, the results are less stable. Seeds are like blank slates¡ªthey absorb the essence more evenly, leading to better hybrids.¡±
She nodded, her gaze unwavering as I placed a small sprig of Sunfire Blade Grass beside the seeds. ¡°This is the infusion step,¡± I continued. ¡°The essence of the Sunfire Blade Grass will combine with the seeds, giving them yang energy and a measure of cold resistance. It¡¯s delicate work, though. Too much energy, and you could destabilize the entire batch.¡±
I pressed my palm against the Sunfire Blade Grass, channeling a controlled stream of qi to extract its essence. The grass wilted instantly, its energy flowing into my palms. With practiced precision, I guided the glowing energy into the seeds, watching as they absorbed the infusion. A faint red hue spread across their surfaces, a sign of success.
|
Quest: Mastery of Spiritual Plant Cultivation
- Cultivate and grow fifty viable and different plant hybrids. (49/50)
|
¡°I¡¯ll call it Heavenly Flame Rice,¡± I said, stepping back to admire the result. ¡°If it works the way I hope, it could grow earlier in the season, even in cold climates. Maybe even enhance cattle feed. And if I''m lucky, it''ll give it a nourishing effect, like a minor pill.¡±
Tianyi¡¯s brow furrowed slightly. ¡°What happens if you do this to all the seeds? Will it work for everyone?¡±
¡°That¡¯s the tricky part,¡± I admitted. I grimaced upon remembering the drawback of the infusion skill. ¡°These hybrids can¡¯t reproduce hybrids. The seeds from this rice won¡¯t carry the same traits; they¡¯ll revert or be weaker. So, the only way to scale this is for me to create more manually.¡±
Her eyes narrowed. ¡°That seems¡ inefficient.¡±
¡°It is,¡± I agreed with a sigh. ¡°But even if it¡¯s not a farming revolution, it¡¯s still useful. Small-scale production can make a difference. I¡¯ll take what I can get.¡±
I carefully returned the infused seeds to the jar, sealing it tightly before bringing it with me. Tianyi¡¯s gaze lingered on the jar, her expression contemplative.
¡°Take care of the house,¡± I said, turning to her with a small smile. ¡°I¡¯m heading out to check on the village.¡±
She bowed, clasping her hands together in a respectful gesture. ¡°I will guard it well. And if the snow demons come, I will call for Windy.¡±
¡°Perfect plan,¡± I said with a chuckle as I pulled on my cloak and braced myself for the cold once more.
The village bustled with activity despite the thick snow that blanketed every surface. The crunch of my boots accompanied the muffled hammering of wood and the rhythmic calls of workers coordinating their efforts. As I made my way toward the construction site, I couldn¡¯t help but marvel at the scene.
The artisans brought in by the Verdant Lotus Sect were working closely with Li Wei, and the sight was nothing short of comical. The boy, barely into his teenage years, stood amid seasoned carpenters and builders, pointing at various sections of the half-built courtyard. His voice carried above the din, issuing instructions that the artisans followed without hesitation.
I stopped a few paces away, leaning against a snow-dusted post to watch. My chest swelled with a smug satisfaction. Feng Wu had doubted my words when I¡¯d spoken of Li Wei¡¯s genius. He thought I was exaggerating. But now, seeing how the artisans treated the boy as an equal¡ªno, as a peer¡ªit was clear just how wrong Feng Wu had been.
The courtyard house itself was impressive. Positioned away from the village square, it was large enough to accommodate two dozen people, with training grounds integrated into the layout. Its rapid construction over the past few weeks was proof of the combined efforts of the Verdant Lotus artisans and the villagers, who¡¯d thrown themselves into the work with gusto.
I tipped my head toward Li Wei, who caught my eye mid-instruction. He nodded and waved before returning to his task. Shaking my head with a grin of my own, I moved on, heading toward the Soaring Swallow Tea House.
The tea house had become the temporary home of the second-class disciples from the Verdant Lotus Sect while the courtyard was being built. It stood at the edge of the square, its windows glowing warmly against the winter¡¯s stark white backdrop. As I stepped inside, the scent of tea and freshly baked pastries enveloped me, a welcome contrast to the cold.
Inside, Lan-Yin was a blur of motion, darting between the kitchen and dining area with an energy that defied her condition. Despite the faint bump visible beneath her robes, she moved with athletic grace, balancing trays laden with steaming cups and plates. Her parents, seated near the back, wore identical expressions of exasperation as they watched her flit about. No doubt they had tried to convince her to rest, but Lan-Yin was nothing if not stubborn.
Even the disciples, seated in groups around low tables, seemed impressed by her nimbleness. Their surprise was evident in their occasional glances and murmured comments. And yet, I knew this was only part of her routine. She still attended Elder Ming¡¯s morning practice sessions, though she¡¯d wisely refrained from sparring.
¡°Lan-Yin!¡± I called out, stepping further into the room. The disciples turned toward me, offering respectful nods and greetings.
¡°Good morning, Kai,¡± one of them, Jian Feng, said with a small bow.
¡°Morning, everyone,¡± I replied, nodding in return. Though I wasn¡¯t as close to these disciples as I was with Feng Wu or even Lan Sheng, I¡¯d come to appreciate their dedication. Within days of their arrival, they¡¯d established patrol schedules and taken their duties seriously. It was comforting to know they had the village¡¯s safety in mind.
Lan-Yin approached, her expression harried but bright. ¡°What can I get you?¡± she asked, balancing a tray in one hand while reaching for a tea towel with the other.
I reached into my cloak and pulled out the jar of Heavenly Flame Rice, handing it to her. ¡°This is for you,¡± I said. ¡°A gift. It¡¯s a hybrid rice I just cultivated. Prepare it when you get a chance, and let me know what you think. If it¡¯s good, I¡¯ll grow more for the disciples.¡±
Lan-Yin¡¯s eyes widened slightly as she took the jar, holding it up to inspect the faint red hue of the grains. ¡°You¡¯re spoiling me, Kai,¡± she said with a small laugh. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure it¡¯s done right, but you¡¯ll have to wait a few days. Husking it will take some time.¡±
¡°No rush,¡± I said, smiling. ¡°I¡¯m curious about how it turns out. If it¡¯s good enough, it might even make its way into your tea house¡¯s menu.¡±
She laughed again, the sound light and genuine, before tucking the jar under her arm and disappearing into the kitchen. I watched her go, marveling at her determination despite everything. Lan-Yin never let anything slow her down¡ªnot her condition, not the added workload, not even the cold.
As I lingered in the tea house, the Verdant Lotus disciples relaxed around their tables, their conversation dipping in and out of patrol schedules, cultivation techniques, and everything in between. I caught Jian Feng¡¯s eye and approached his table, drawing their attention with a casual wave.
¡°You all seem settled,¡± I said, pulling up a chair and sitting across from him. The other disciples nodded politely, their postures straightening as if they anticipated some kind of formal conversation.
¡°It¡¯s a peaceful village,¡± Jian Feng replied. ¡°A good place to train in. Gathering energy is quite easy here.¡±
¡°Glad to hear it.¡± I let a pause hang in the air, then leaned forward, my tone light. ¡°Speaking of training, have you considered engaging in some friendly sparring with the villagers? Or maybe teaching the more able-bodied adults a few exercises?¡±
The disciples exchanged quick glances, and one of them, a sharp-eyed woman named Mei Rong, spoke up. ¡°Feng Wu mentioned something similar before we left. We can¡¯t teach sect techniques, of course, but basic drills and self-defense? That¡¯s within reason.¡±
Jian Feng nodded in agreement. ¡°If it helps strengthen the village, we¡¯re happy to assist. Just let us know how you¡¯d like to organize it.¡±
¡°Oh, I¡¯ve got an idea,¡± I said, my grin turning mischievous. ¡°In fact, we''ve got something to show you all that might help with your efforts.¡±
158. Blows and Balance
The forge loomed ahead, a squat building exhaling thin plumes of smoke into the frigid air. Its doors were cracked open, spilling a warm orange glow that flickered against the snow-covered ground. The rhythmic clang of metal striking metal carried through the cold, mingling with the muted crunch of boots on snow as I led the second-class disciples toward it.
¡°Here we are.¡± I said, gesturing to the forge with a grin.
The forge''s heat was a welcome reprieve from the biting cold outside. Inside, Master Qiang stood at his anvil, his powerful arms swinging a hammer with practiced precision. Sparks flew as he struck a glowing piece of metal, shaping it with a precision that belied his gruff demeanor. Wang Jun stood nearby, his hands stained with soot as he inspected a row of freshly forged blades laid out on a workbench.
¡°Master Qiang! Wang Jun!¡± I called out over the clamor, stepping into the forge. Both men looked up, their faces breaking into smiles at the sight of us.
¡°Kai,¡± Wang Jun said, wiping his hands on a cloth. His gaze flicked to the disciples behind me, curiosity sparking in his eyes. ¡°Brought company, I see.¡±
¡°Thought it was about time they saw what you¡¯ve been working on,¡± I said, motioning for the disciples to follow. ¡°Everyone, meet Master Qiang, our resident blacksmith, and Wang Jun, his apprentice and Gentle Wind¡¯s soon-to-be best blacksmith.¡±
¡°Soon-to-be?¡± Wang Jun quipped, raising an eyebrow. ¡°You mean I¡¯m not already?¡±
"Not while I''m alive, you ain''t!" His master barked out.
The disciples chuckled politely as they stepped further into the forge, their eyes scanning the weapons lined up on the workbench. Swords, spears, and daggers gleamed under the forge''s light, their designs simple but sturdy. Some were smaller, clearly intended for younger hands, while others bore the heft and length of weapons meant for adults.
¡°This,¡± I began, gesturing to the array, ¡°is part of our effort to prepare the village. We¡¯re not expecting to turn them into warriors overnight, but having a weapon in hand can make a world of difference in an emergency.¡±
Jian Feng picked up a short blade, turning it over in his hands. ¡°These are well-made,¡± he said, his tone betraying a hint of surprise. ¡°And the variety¡ you¡¯ve thought about this.¡±
¡°I try,¡± I said with a shrug. ¡°Every villager, no matter their size or strength, should have something they can wield. That¡¯s where Master Qiang and Wang Jun come in. They¡¯ve been working tirelessly to produce weapons both for you and the village.¡±
Master Qiang grunted, setting down his hammer. ¡°Kai here¡¯s been pushing us hard,¡± he said, his voice gruff but good-natured. ¡°Won¡¯t stop talking about making sure everyone¡¯s prepared. Can¡¯t say I disagree, though.¡±
¡°And speaking of preparation,¡± Wang Jun cut in, his eyes gleaming with a familiar spark of determination, ¡°how about a demonstration? A spar, maybe?¡±
The disciples perked up at that, their curiosity clearly piqued. Mei Rong, ever the cautious one, folded her arms. ¡°A spar? Against who?¡±
¡°Me, of course.¡± Wang Jun said with a grin, already pulling off his heavy apron. "No one better to test the weapons against than the one who made it, I''d say."
I leaned against the workbench, watching Wang Jun with a mix of amusement and pride. Over the past month, he¡¯d been a whirlwind of energy, throwing himself into training and forging with a fervor that bordered on obsession. Ever since Lan-Yin¡¯s diagnosis, he¡¯d been different. More focused, more driven. He¡¯d pestered me endlessly for spars and advice on how to get stronger, even volunteering to test some of my experimental medicines.
I couldn¡¯t help but think how fitting it was for him to be a father. The weight of responsibility had sharpened him, turning his usual bluster into something more resolute. The events after Narrow Stone Peak had left their mark on all of us, but Wang Jun¡ he¡¯d risen to the challenge in a way that made me proud to call him a friend.
We walked into a clearing just behind the building, where Wang Jun and Master Qiang chopped and stored the wood to fuel their forge.
It had been hastily shoveled free of snow, the ground underneath packed hard from years of foot traffic and work. A faint haze of heat still clung to the air from the forge¡¯s fires, keeping the chill at bay. Wang Jun rolled his shoulders, testing the grip of his hammer as he glanced at me with a lopsided grin.
¡°So,¡± I said, crossing my arms, ¡°how¡¯s it been, using that hammer in your fighting style?¡±
¡°Good,¡± Wang Jun replied, hefting the hammer and giving it a few experimental swings. The head cut through the air with a satisfying whoosh. ¡°Almost too good, honestly. Feels natural like it¡¯s been part of me all along. Guess that¡¯s what happens when you spend years wielding one.¡±
I nodded, watching as he fell into a comfortable stance. ¡°Makes sense. You¡¯ve been swinging that thing since you were a kid, right? It¡¯s just muscle memory now, honed into something lethal.¡±
From the corner of my eye, I noticed the disciples huddled together, murmuring among themselves. Their attention soon shifted to a small game of slug, snake, frog, deciding who would spar with Wang Jun.
The game was quick, with fingers snapping into shapes and groans or cheers accompanying each round. Jian Feng lost with a sigh, stepping forward to claim a weapon. His hand hovered over a short sword before settling on a staff. He gave it an experimental twirl, murmuring quietly to himself.
¡°Well-balanced.¡±
¡°You don¡¯t have to use it if you don¡¯t want to,¡± Wang Jun offered, spinning his hammer idly. His tone was casual, but there was an edge of anticipation in his voice.
Jian Feng shook his head, planting the staff in the ground with a solid thud. ¡°It¡¯s not my primary weapon, but every sparring match is a learning opportunity. And who knows? It might teach me something new.¡±
The disciples murmured their approval, and Jian Feng stepped into the clearing, spinning the staff once more before settling into a ready stance. ¡°Custom dictates I give you the first three moves,¡± he said with a wry smile. ¡°Use them wisely.¡±Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.
Wang Jun didn¡¯t hesitate.
He surged forward, hammer held low as he closed the distance with alarming speed. For someone his size and wielding such a heavy weapon, his movement was fluid, his footwork surprisingly light. His first strike was a sweeping arc aimed at Jian Feng¡¯s side, the head of the hammer whistling through the air.
Jian Feng reacted instantly, pivoting on his back foot to deflect the strike with his staff. The clash made a loud noise, but Jian Feng¡¯s stance remained firm even with Wang Jun''s full weight bearing down on him. He shifted slightly, ready for the next attack.
Wang Jun¡¯s second move came just as quickly, a feint upward that transitioned into a quick jab toward the disciple''s midsection. The staff spun, deflecting the blow with a loud crack. Undeterred, he followed with a downward swing, his hammer crashing toward Jian Feng with a force that could split wood.
Jian Feng sidestepped, the hammer slamming into the packed earth with a dull thud. He spun his staff in a fluid arc, stepping back into his stance, the same faint smile on his lips.
¡°Your strength is impressive,¡± Jian Feng said, his tone admiring but measured. ¡°But strength alone isn¡¯t enough.¡±
Wang Jun grunted, pulling his hammer free from the ground and resetting his stance. His face was set in determination, his jaw clenched as he stepped forward to close the gap again.
I watched, my arms folded, as Wang Jun pressed the offensive. His strikes were relentless, each one precise and deliberate, a reflection of his years spent forging steel. The hammer wasn¡¯t just a weapon in his hands, it was an extension of his body, moving with a rhythm honed by years at the forge.
And yet, as impressive as he was, Jian Feng remained several steps ahead. The senior disciple¡¯s movements were calculated, almost effortless as he parried and dodged each attack. He wasn¡¯t just defending, his eyes were sharp as they followed every swing of Wang Jun¡¯s hammer.
It was clear that the blacksmith had a natural gift. His strength, combined with the technical refinement gained from years of smithing, made him a formidable opponent. If I compared him to myself at the same stage in our journeys, I had to admit; Wang Jun was stronger. He didn¡¯t have the raw power of someone like Ping Hai but there was something undeniably solid about him.
If Ping Hai was an ox, Wang Jun was a horse: strong, agile, and athletic.
It stung, just a little, to realize this. I¡¯d spent so much time as a child envying Wang Jun¡¯s constitution, bemoaning how he seemed to have the perfect base for a fighter while I¡¯d struggled to find my footing in the beginning of my journey. His strength came naturally, while I had to claw for every inch of progress.
But even as the old pang of envy surfaced, I felt a swell of pride. Wang Jun had taken what he was given and worked hard to refine it. That determination, that grit, was something I couldn¡¯t help but admire.
The sparring match came to a decisive end when Jian Feng shifted from defense to offense. His staff moved like a blur, striking Wang Jun¡¯s hammer in a way that forced him to overextend. In the same motion, Jian Feng swept his staff low, catching Wang Jun¡¯s leg and sending him sprawling onto his back.
For a moment, the clearing was silent except for the sound of Wang Jun¡¯s heavy breathing. Then, Jian Feng stepped back, lowering his staff and bowing slightly.
¡°You¡¯ve got potential,¡± Jian Feng said, his tone even. ¡°For someone with no formal training under a sect or clan, you¡¯re impressive.¡±
Wang Jun grunted as he sat up, wiping sweat from his brow. His expression was a mix of frustration and respect. ¡°Thanks,¡± he muttered, pulling himself to his feet. "I learned well."
I clapped him on the shoulder as he dusted himself off. ¡°You did great,¡± I said with a grin. ¡°Besides, you can¡¯t expect to win against someone like Jian Feng on your first try. He¡¯s probably been training since he could walk.¡±
Wang Jun chuckled, the tension easing from his shoulders. ¡°Yeah, I guess. Still, it stings a bit.¡±
The second-class disciple remained quiet, his gaze shifting from Wang Jun to me.
¡°Kai,¡± he said suddenly, his tone curious. ¡°How about you? Care to spar?¡±
The challenge hung in the air, and I straightened, feeling the weight of his gaze.
¡°Me?¡± I asked. ¡°You sure you want to take me on after that warm-up?¡±
Jian Feng¡¯s lips twitched into a faint smile. ¡°I¡¯m curious,¡± he said. ¡°Wang Jun¡¯s strength is impressive, but I¡¯d like to see how you compare.¡±
The other disciples murmured among themselves, their interest piqued. I glanced at Wang Jun, who gave me an encouraging nod.
¡°Well,¡± I said, rolling my shoulders. ¡°If you insist. But don¡¯t say I didn¡¯t warn you.¡±
Despite my feigned reluctance, I was quite eager. This would be a good test, as well as a way of furthering my quest to learn the Combat Anticipation Array.
Wang Jun stepped out of the clearing, grinning through his sweat. ¡°Go get him, Kai. Show him what Gentle Wind Village is made of!¡± he said, waving me forward with a casual gesture.
¡°Hmph! Fear not! I shall avenge you!¡± I declared dramatically, striding into the clearing with a flair that made the disciples chuckle.
¡°Please don¡¯t,¡± Wang Jun muttered, shaking his head in mock exasperation. ¡°Just fight already.¡±
Jian Feng inclined his head slightly, amusement flickering in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll give you the first three moves,¡± he said, planting his staff firmly in the ground. ¡°Take your best shot.¡±
¡°Generous,¡± I replied with a grin, stepping into the stance of the Heavenly Flame Mantra. My hands ignited with a faint red glow as heat surged through my body, gathering in my palms. ¡°I appreciate the gesture.¡±
The clearing grew quiet, the tension crackling like kindling in a fire.
I moved first, closing the distance in a single step and aiming a flaming strike at Jian Feng¡¯s midsection. He parried effortlessly, his staff intercepting my hand with a solid thwack.
Undeterred, I spun, bringing my other hand up in a fiery arc aimed at his shoulder. Again, his staff was there to meet me, the impact sending a jolt up my arm.
My third move was more calculated, a feint to the left before pivoting to strike low. For a moment, I thought I had him, but Jian Feng shifted his weight, his staff sweeping in to block me with almost insulting ease.
From there, we continued to exchange several strikes, garnering a feel for each other''s range. Jian Feng was similar in size and speed to all the second-class disciples. And that gave me an opportunity; sparring with Tianyi, who moved faster than the eye could see, had given me more poise and confidence even against physically superior opponents.
"Hngh!"
I tucked my shoulder in, allowing a strike to my shoulder. But with the Iron Boar hide cloaked over me, the impact was muted.
He stepped back, resetting his stance. ¡°Clean strikes,¡± he said, his tone calm. ¡°But why are you holding back?¡±
¡°Who says I am?¡± I replied lightly, though my grin faltered slightly.
Jian Feng tilted his head, his sharp gaze unwavering. ¡°I saw your fight against Ping Hai. Those other techniques¡ the Rooted Banyan Stance, the Bamboo Reprisal Counter. Why aren¡¯t you using them?¡±
I clenched my fists, extinguishing the flames momentarily. ¡°I can¡¯t,¡± I admitted. ¡°And even if I could, I wouldn¡¯t. Not without my mentor''s permission. He¡¯s made it clear I need to focus on mastering this style first.¡±
Jian Feng¡¯s brow furrowed, but he nodded. ¡°I see. And yet, this style¡ it doesn¡¯t seem to suit you.¡±
He wasn¡¯t wrong. The Heavenly Flame Mantra demanded aggression, constant pressure; everything that went against my instincts. Every move I made felt like swimming upstream, my body fighting against ingrained habits.
But I trusted Elder Ming¡¯s instructions. This was a test, a way to push past my limits and grow stronger. And if that meant taking a few hits or losing, so be it.
Jian Feng didn¡¯t wait long before pressing his advantage. His staff moved like a living thing, darting and striking with precision. I managed to block some of his attacks, but others slipped through my defenses, landing sharp blows on my arms and legs.
THWACK!
CRACK!
The impacts stung, but I gritted my teeth and stayed on my feet.
¡°Still holding back,¡± Jian Feng muttered, his disappointment palpable. He shifted his stance, preparing for what I could tell would be a decisive strike.
Now or never.
A map of the clearing materialized in my mind¡¯s eye, the position of his weapon, every subtle shift in Jian Feng¡¯s stance, and even the snow underneath us. It was like a glowing path etched in that mental map, revealing the most likely arc of his attack.
I dodged his next attack, stepping inside his guard. As he adjusted, I refined the heat of the Heavenly Flame Mantra into a single, concentrated point at my fingertips. With a sharp jab, I struck his thigh, channeling the heat directly into the muscle.
Jian Feng¡¯s leg spasmed involuntarily, a reflexive jerk that made him stumble. His eyes widened in surprise as I seized the moment, unleashing a flurry of rapid blows.
The strikes landed with precision, each one forcing him further off balance.
Just as he staggered, his defenses crumbling, I pulled back my fist, stopping inches from his chest. The heat radiated from my hand, but I didn¡¯t deliver the final blow.
¡°I¡¯ve learned well,¡± I said, letting the flames flicker out as I stepped back.
Jian Feng exhaled slowly, bowing his head. ¡°You¡¯ve won,¡± he said, his voice humble. ¡°I underestimated you. That was a mistake.¡±
I snorted, crossing my arms. ¡°You were using a staff you¡¯re not familiar with. Let¡¯s not pretend it was a fair fight.¡±
The disciples clapped, their expressions a mix of admiration and amusement. Wang Jun was the loudest, cheering as if I¡¯d just won a grand tournament. ¡°That¡¯s our Kai!¡± he shouted, his grin wide enough to split his face.
I rubbed the back of my neck, feeling a flush rise to my cheeks. ¡°Alright, alright,¡± I muttered. ¡°Don¡¯t make it weird.¡±
I looked at my quest, feeling a sense of accomplishment.
|
Quest: Beyond the Memory Palace
- Successfully evade or counter 10 different attacks by predicting their trajectories using a simulated visual map in real time. (10/10)
- Land 5 precise hits on a moving opponent using openings simulated beforehand. (3/5)
- Use the Refinement Simulation technique on an alchemical reaction mid-combat to create an advantage. (0/1)
|
Learning how to predict and visualize people''s moves had done wonders for me. Soon, I''d complete this quest and hopefully learn the Combat Anticipation Array just like Feng Wu did. But one task still loomed: using the Refinement Simulation in combat. That was a hurdle I hadn¡¯t yet crossed, and I had a feeling it wouldn¡¯t be easy.
But I was progressing. And that''s all that mattered.
159. A Thousand Flames, One Shell
The days passed with an ease that felt almost unfamiliar, a calm that belied the chaos we¡¯d endured just a few months ago. The second-class disciples of the Verdant Lotus Sect had become a steady presence in the village, their teachings a quiet boon. Able-bodied adults and curious children alike flocked to their drills, learning not just self-defense techniques but the basics of cultivation. Lan-Yin and Wang Jun were particularly instrumental, rallying even the most hesitant villagers with promises of strength and confidence that extended beyond the training grounds.
Of course, putting wooden swords and blunted spears into the hands of children and untrained adults came with its share of... incidents. It wasn¡¯t long before the disciples¡¯ roles expanded to include patching up the inevitable scrapes, bruises, and occasionally sprained wrists that came with enthusiastic but clumsy sparring sessions. But they weren¡¯t just warriors; they were healers too. Each carried a satchel at their hip, stocked with an assortment of medicinal goods. Powders to stave off infections, and small clay jars of salves for burns and sprains seemed to appear out of nowhere whenever someone stumbled too hard or swung their staff the wrong way. Their efficiency was remarkable, their hands moving with practiced ease as they mended the bumps and cuts of their trainees.
But they didn¡¯t stop there. The disciples insisted on teaching the basics of first aid alongside their combat drills. Bandaging a wound properly, recognizing signs of infection, and even basic pressure points to stop bleeding¡ªall of it was woven into their lessons.
As one disciple put it, ¡°What good is strength if you don¡¯t know how to recover from its consequences?¡±
And then there was the wine.
I smirked to myself at the thought. Nearly every disciple carried a flask of medicinal wine in their satchels, ostensibly to disinfect wounds or ward off illnesses. I¡¯d watched them dab it on cuts and scrapes with a flourish, the sharp, heady scent filling the air as they muttered about purification. It worked, sure.
But let¡¯s be honest¡ªit wasn¡¯t just about healing.
¡°Medicinal wine,¡± I muttered under my breath one day as a disciple poured a generous splash onto a scrape. ¡°The cure for wounds, colds, and sobriety.¡±
The disciples'' patrols, meanwhile, ensured a sense of safety that allowed us to focus on developing the village.
For me, though, the calm was an illusion. My days were anything but restful.
I stood barefoot in the middle of a blazing circle, the heat from the coals beneath my feet radiating up my legs. The flames danced erratically, licking the air around me as I moved through the prescribed forms of the Dance of the Thousand Flames, a training method from Elder Ming''s former sect.
''I don''t know what psychopath invented this, but they were a genius.''
Sweat poured down my back despite the winter chill, the sharp contrast between fire and frost an ever-present reminder of the harshness of this training.
It wasn''t just a dance; it was a trial. Every movement demanded precision, every shift of weight a gamble between balance and pain. My qi flowed through me in a protective sheath, mimicking the unpredictable flickers of the flames that surrounded me. Each step burned a lesson into my body: light on your feet, adapt, never stop moving. The flames were not just an obstacle but a teacher, their relentless heat honing my control.
"Form tighter!" Elder Ming¡¯s bark cut through the roaring fire. His tone was sharp, a lash against the sluggish edges of my focus.
I gritted my teeth and adjusted, pulling my arms in closer to my body as I twisted through the next step. The flames surged at my hesitation, a stray ember brushing too close to my exposed skin. A quick burst of qi canceled it out before it could bite deeper. The heat was constant, oppressive, but I couldn¡¯t let it win. Each breath was a fight for control, and each heartbeat carried the weight of Elder Ming¡¯s unrelenting gaze.
¡°Faster, Kai! If your brain can¡¯t outpace your feet, you¡¯ll be ash before dawn!¡±
My limbs ached, my lungs burned, and my head pounded with the effort of channeling fire qi to combat the flames, all while maintaining the rapid footwork that kept me from getting scorched. It was more than a physical challenge¡ªit was a mental one. The synchronization of mind and body had to be absolute, my focus sharp enough to pierce through the heat haze that threatened to cloud my thoughts.
But even through the haze, something stirred.
As my body adapted to the fire¡¯s relentless assault, something clicked. My movements grew lighter, and the coals felt less like an enemy and more like a partner in this grueling dance.
And then, that familiar chime echoed in my mind.
|
You feel a surge of power coursing through your veins. Your muscles ripple and your bones creak with newfound strength.
Your Body has reached Qi Initiation Stage - Rank 1
|
About time!
¡°Enough!¡± Elder Ming¡¯s voice cracked through the air like a whip. I didn¡¯t hesitate. With a final leap, I broke free of the circle of flames, landing on the frost-kissed ground beyond. The winter chill slammed into me like a wall, the sudden contrast drawing a gasp from my lips.
Patting down the remaining embers that clung to my robes, I pulled on my outer garments with shaking hands, the cold biting into my sweat-soaked skin. My legs trembled slightly from the exertion, but there was a strange clarity in my mind, a quiet triumph that hummed beneath my exhaustion.
I clenched and unclenched my fist, feeling a sense of harmony with my body that I didn''t before.
With that, my overall cultivation rank to the second level of Qi Initiation stage! My body was always lagging behind, but now all three categories have gone past the mortal realm.
Elder Ming approached, his expression unreadable as always. He crossed his arms, his gaze sweeping over me critically. ¡°You¡¯re improving,¡± he said at last, his tone begrudgingly approving. ¡°But don¡¯t let that go to your head. The flame is still far from mastered.¡±
I exhaled, letting the weight of his words settle as I felt the dull ache in my muscles. But there was a flicker of pride within me. Pride that couldn¡¯t be denied. ¡°Still,¡± I said, managing a small grin. ¡°I¡¯ve come a long way, haven¡¯t I? Feng Wu said it¡¯d take me three or four years to get to the second rank of Qi Initiation. But here I am, not even a year later.¡±
Elder Ming tilted his head slightly, his sharp eyes narrowing. ¡°You think you¡¯re some kind of prodigy now?¡± he asked, his voice tinged with dry amusement.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.
¡°Well,¡± I started, letting the grin widen, ¡°I mean¡ maybe? Isn¡¯t that what this means?¡±
Without a word, Elder Ming crouched low and began drawing in the dirt with a nearby stick. He etched a short, straight line. ¡°This is you when you started,¡± he said. Then, just beside it, he drew a significantly longer line. ¡°And this is you now.¡±
I nodded, feeling a swell of pride at the visual.
But then, with deliberate slowness, Elder Ming drew another line¡ªa ridiculously long one that stretched far past the first two, nearly to the edge of the training ground. ¡°And this,¡± he said, his tone dry as the winter air, ¡°is my sworn brother. Back when we were children, years younger than you are now.¡±
My grin fell. ¡°You¡¯ve got to be kidding me.¡±
Elder Ming straightened, brushing dirt from his hands. ¡°Comparisons are a dangerous thing, Kai. They can motivate you or crush you. And you¡¯re not the only one growing stronger.¡±
I huffed, crossing my arms as I glared at the absurdly long line in the dirt. ¡°Alright, point taken. But still, you have to admit, I¡¯m not doing so bad.¡±
His expression softened, but only slightly. ¡°You¡¯re doing well,¡± he admitted, ¡°but the path ahead is far longer than you realize. And others aren¡¯t standing still. You know that.¡±
Feng Wu¡¯s voice echoed in my mind, a reminder of just how far I had yet to go.
''At your current level, it would take about three or four years of rigorous cultivation to reach the second rank of the Qi Initiation Stage.''
Feng Wu had been at the fourth rank of Qi Initiation then. By now, he was likely at the fifth, or even breaking into the Essence Awakening stage, growing with the rising qi throughout the region. The same could be said for the rest of my friends in the Verdant Lotus.
And my enemies.
I clenched my fists, the triumph I¡¯d felt moments ago giving way to a sharp determination. Elder Ming was right. I couldn¡¯t afford to grow complacent. This was progress, yes, but it was only a step on a path that stretched far beyond the horizon.
I glanced back at the faint glow of the coals in the training circle, their light flickering against the encroaching night. ¡°I¡¯ll just have to keep moving,¡± I muttered, more to myself than to Elder Ming. ¡°No stopping, no settling. I¡¯ll catch up, no matter how far ahead they are.¡±
Elder Ming gave a faint hum of approval. ¡°Good. Now stop wasting energy talking and go recover. You¡¯ll need your strength for the next session.¡±
I gave him a half-hearted glare but turned to leave, my mind already churning with plans for what came next.
But just as I said those words, another notification appeared.
|
Quest: Body Refinement (Breakthrough)
- Take on the Black Tortoise''s Tribulation.
Accept? (Y/N)
|
That was odd.
I tilted my head, trying to remember the last time the Heavenly Interface gave me an option to accept or decline a quest. I dove deep into my Memory Palace, looking through the small sapling which congealed all my knowledge of the Heavenly Interface into one area.
Aside from my first contract, I don''t think it ever did.
It was odd that the interface hadn''t given a quest for me to breakthrough into the Qi Initiation stage, but rather only when I arrived.
Hesitation gripped me. My eyes lingered on the notification, and for a brief moment, I thought about asking Elder Ming what he thought. His insight had guided me this far, after all.
But then, I shook my head.
Since when have I ever been the sort to turn down a challenge?
Let it be known Kai Liu never turns down a quest!
The moment I confirmed, the world seemed to twist. A crushing weight slammed down on me, dragging me to my knees before I could even gasp. My elbows hit the frozen ground hard, the shock of impact rippling through my arms.
¡°What the¡ª!?¡± I wheezed, my voice strained under the sudden pressure. My chest felt like it was caving in, my limbs trembling as though my pill furnace had been dropped on my back.
The frostbitten ground blurred beneath me as my vision wavered. Every breath was a battle, each inhalation shallow and painful. My qi flared instinctively, but even that felt sluggish, as if the energy within me was being smothered by an invisible force.
¡°Kai!¡± Elder Ming¡¯s voice cut through the haze. His presence loomed over me, but I couldn¡¯t lift my head to meet his gaze.
¡°What... is this?¡± I choked out, my body refusing to move.
|
Sub-quest accepted: The Black Tortoise''s Tribulation
Objective: Punch and leave a visible dent in the ancient Banyan tree outside of Gentle Wind Village while carrying the weight of the Black Tortoise shell.
Conditions:
The Black Tortoise shell is bound to you and cannot be removed until the challenge is complete.
The shell is invisible and intangible to others.
You must rely solely on your own strength to complete this challenge.
|
Shell?
Can''t be removed until the challenge is complete?
Just my luck.
I managed to get myself into a comfortable position with Elder Ming''s help. After laying me down on my back, I explained the situation to him.
Elder Ming crouched beside me, his hand hovering near my back without touching. His expression was calm, but his eyes held a flicker of something I couldn¡¯t quite place; concern, maybe? Curiosity?
¡°Interesting,¡± he muttered. ¡°The Black Tortoise¡¯s Tribulation, you said?¡±
I barely managed a nod.
¡°Foolish boy,¡± he said, though his tone lacked its usual bite. ¡°You accepted a quest involving a celestial tribulation without knowing what it entails?¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t think it¡¯d feel like this!¡± I hissed, my arms shaking as I tried to hold them up. The weight pressed down harder, pinning me in place. As though the weight of the Two Star Pagoda Pill Furnace was bearing down on me. Perhaps this was why the quest was only presented to me now.
It was the bare minimum I needed to even survive.
Elder Ming sighed, standing to his full height. ¡°Of course, you didn¡¯t. But now that you¡¯ve started, there¡¯s no turning back. The tribulation has begun.¡±
¡°Great,¡± I muttered through gritted teeth. ¡°Care to offer some... sage advice while I get crushed to death?¡±
¡°Endure,¡± he said simply, folding his arms. ¡°If you can¡¯t withstand the weight of this trial, you have no business advancing further. You''re good at that, aren''t you?¡±
¡°Endure,¡± I echoed bitterly, my fingers digging into the frozen dirt. ¡°Yeah, thanks for that profound wisdom.¡±
The faintest smirk ghosted across his lips. ¡°Good luck.¡±
I didn¡¯t have the energy to glare at him. The weight wasn¡¯t just physical; it pressed against my mind, my spirit, as if testing every fiber of my being.
''Fine. If this is a test, I¡¯ll pass it. I always do.''
"But... is this normal? Even before the Interface? Have you ever heard of a tribulation like this?" I asked Elder Ming.
He stroked his chin thoughtfully, his sharp eyes narrowing as he stared at the space just above my shoulder, as though he could see the invisible weight crushing me.
"No," he admitted finally, his tone unusually grave. "This isn''t normal. I¡¯ve heard of tribulations, but they occur at far higher cultivation levels and are more... dramatic.¡±
"Like the Spirit Ascension Stage?" I managed to croak out, each word escaping between shallow breaths.
He shook his head slowly. ¡°No. Higher. At the Earthly Transcendence Stage.¡± His words carried a weight of their own, sinking into me like stones.
I blinked through the haze of pain. "Earthly Transcendence?" The words felt foreign on my tongue, like an elusive legend pulled from the pages of Liang Feng¡¯s novels. My mind swirled, trying to reconcile this mythical stage with the crushing weight pinning me down. "That¡¯s... real?"
¡°Yes, though not here,¡± Elder Ming said, his voice firm. ¡°It¡¯s exceedingly rare even in the mainland. Only the most elite cultivators, like sect elders of top sects, have a chance of reaching it. And even then, the heavens view them as a threat to their authority.¡±
¡°What happens?¡± I asked, the strain of the shell momentarily eclipsed by curiosity.
Elder Ming¡¯s gaze darkened. ¡°The heavens respond with lightning tribulations. Bolts of celestial fury strike to obliterate those who dare to ascend. Survive, and you advance to the next stage. Fail, and you risk losing your cultivation or your life.¡±
A shiver that had nothing to do with the cold ran down my spine. Lightning tribulations. I suppose this was better than that.
¡°But,¡± Elder Ming continued, snapping me out of my spiraling thoughts, ¡°that¡¯s not something you need to worry about. At the rate you¡¯re progressing, it would take centuries for you to even think about Earthly Transcendence.¡±
¡°Centuries?¡± I groaned, though whether it was from his words or the unrelenting weight, I couldn¡¯t say. ¡°You really know how to motivate a guy. What comes after that stage? Is there one?¡±
He snorted. ¡°Motivation or not, you need to focus on surviving this tribulation first. Worrying about stages beyond your reach is a waste of time.¡±
¡°But this¡ª¡± I gritted my teeth, pushing against the crushing force to sit upright, channeling qi to reinforce my body and give me some breathing room. ¡°this isn¡¯t normal, is it? You¡¯ve never seen anything like it?¡±
¡°Never,¡± Elder Ming said, and for the first time, there was a flicker of genuine uncertainty in his voice. ¡°I¡¯ve read about many tribulations, seen one with my own eyes. None of them were like this. Whatever this is... it¡¯s new.¡±
His words settled over me like a second weight, one not from the shell but from the realization that I was in uncharted territory. Whatever this Black Tortoise¡¯s Tribulation was, it wasn¡¯t following the conventional rules of cultivation.
Elder Ming gave me a long, appraising look. ¡°If you make it through this, Kai, it will change you.¡±
¡°Yeah?¡± I gasped, managing a shaky smirk. ¡°Hopefully not into ash.¡±
He chuckled, a rare sound that somehow lightened the oppressive atmosphere. ¡°That depends on how stubborn you are. Now, stop talking and focus."
I grit my teeth, the crushing weight pressing against my chest as I tried to summon enough qi to stabilize myself. This wasn¡¯t just a burden; it was an all-encompassing trial, testing everything from my physical endurance to my willpower.
As if sensing my struggle, Elder Ming¡¯s voice broke through the haze. ¡°This is going to take weeks,¡± he said matter-of-factly, pacing around me. His sharp gaze lingered on my trembling arms, the sweat dripping onto the frozen ground. ¡°You won¡¯t be able to train properly in anything else until you¡¯ve adjusted to this weight. We''ll pause training while you adjust.¡±
¡°Weeks?¡± My voice cracked, more from disbelief than exertion. ¡°Are you serious?¡±
¡°Very,¡± Elder Ming replied, crossing his arms. ¡°If you''re able to complete it, you''ll be far stronger. But until then...¡± He let the words hang, his silence heavy with implication.
I groaned, my face contorting in frustration. ¡°This is going to ruin all my plans! I had progress to make, techniques to master, and now I¡¯m going to spend weeks just trying to stand without looking like an idiot!¡±
Elder Ming¡¯s smirk returned, faint but unmistakable. ¡°Consider it a lesson in humility.¡±
Before I could retort, a soft knock interrupted us. The sound was almost polite, a stark contrast to the tension of the moment. Both Elder Ming and I turned toward the courtyard¡¯s entrance.
¡°Elder Ming, Kai,¡± a familiar voice called out. Xiao Bao¡¯s silhouette appeared just beyond the threshold, his face still marked with crumbs of food. ¡°There are people here to meet you.¡±
160. A New Face
The chill bit harder than usual that morning as I stood with Elder Ming, the crushing weight of the Black Tortoise shell pressing down on every joint and muscle. My breath misted in the cold air, and each exhale felt heavier than the last. I¡¯d barely managed to pull myself upright after Xiao Bao¡¯s announcement.
When I saw them, my heart sank.
The group approaching wasn¡¯t Feng Wu or the Whispering Wind sect disciples I¡¯d been hoping for. Instead, it was a caravan of strangers; at least a dozen figures, many of them seedy-looking types who wouldn¡¯t have been out of place in the darker alleys of Crescent Bay City. A handful of carts and wagons creaked behind them, weighed down with items I couldn¡¯t make out from this distance. Leading them was a man with a sharp, angular face, dressed too well for a simple traveler but not quite polished enough to be a noble. His hair was slicked back, and even from afar, I could see the smirk curling his lips as he locked eyes with Elder Ming and me.
The kind of smirk that made my stomach churn.
"Great," I muttered under my breath, forcing my legs to move. The shell¡¯s weight bore down on me with every step, and I had to focus just to keep my qi flowing steadily enough to reinforce my body. My limbs screamed for relief, but I straightened my back and clenched my jaw, doing my best to appear composed.
Why now? I cursed silently. Out of all the times to take on a tribulation, why did it have to be today?
The strangers continued their approach, and as they drew closer, the leader¡¯s smirk widened. His confident gait and the rough demeanor of his companions¡ªall of it screamed trouble. I braced myself, each step feeling like a gamble. By the time I reached the courtyard¡¯s edge, my legs were trembling beneath the weight of the shell, but I kept my chin up.
¡°Are you Kai Liu?¡± the man called out, his voice smooth but with an edge that set my nerves on fire. His sharp eyes flicked toward Elder Ming briefly before settling on me again. ¡°And the Village Head?¡±
Elder Ming nodded, and I stopped a few paces from him, fighting the urge to lean on the gate for support. ¡°That¡¯s me,¡± I said, keeping my tone steady. ¡°Who¡¯s asking?¡±
The man¡¯s smirk didn¡¯t falter. In fact, it deepened. Without warning, he moved.
Fast.
Too fast for me to react.
My body tensed instinctively, qi surging in a desperate attempt to respond. But the weight of the shell slowed me down, and I could only watch, frozen, as his hand darted toward me.
My heart jumped into my throat, panic flaring¡ª
¡ªand then he pulled something from his pocket.
¡°Here,¡± he said, holding it out with a flourish.
It was¡ a silk-wrapped box?
The man¡¯s movements were deliberate as he extended the box toward me, and then bowed deeply. His smirk was gone, replaced by a respectful expression that looked almost out of place on his sharp features.
¡°I¡¯m Liang Chen,¡± he said, his tone calm and deferential. ¡°A humble merchant. These men and the caravans you see behind me are my workers. We¡¯ve come to offer our services to your village.¡±
I blinked.
He straightened, gesturing toward the wagons behind him. ¡°We bring supplies, tools, and goods for trade. The roads here aren''t well-maintained, but word of Gentle Wind Village as your abode has spread. It¡¯s rare to find a village with such a promising reputation.¡± He offered a small smile. ¡°And I couldn¡¯t pass up the opportunity to establish connections with someone who made it to the finals of the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet.¡±
For a moment, I just stared at him, my mind reeling. I¡¯d prepared myself for a fight, for a bandit leader or ambitious rogue sect trying to claim the village¡¯s resources. Instead¡ he was just a merchant?
I glanced at Elder Ming, whose expression remained as unreadable as ever. Of course, he¡¯d probably seen through this man¡¯s intentions the moment he laid eyes on him. Meanwhile, I stood there like an idiot, trying to process the sudden shift in tone.
Liang Chen cleared his throat, holding the silk-wrapped box out toward me again. ¡°This is a gift,¡± he said. ¡°A token of goodwill. I hope it will convey the sincerity of our intentions.¡±
With effort, I unclenched my jaw and forced a smile. ¡°Uh¡ thanks,¡± I said, taking the box with hands that trembled only partly from exertion. The weight of the shell made it feel heavier than it was, but I managed not to drop it.
Just as I took the silk-wrapped box from Liang Chen, a familiar, indignant voice erupted from behind me.
¡°You!¡±
I turned to see Huan, the representative of the Azure Silk Trading Company, storming out of the village gates with all the dramatic flair of someone personally wronged. His eyes darted between Liang Chen and me before landing squarely on Liang Chen. He pointed an accusing finger at him, his expression a mix of shock and derision.
¡°What are you doing here, Liang?¡± Huan demanded, his voice tinged with an almost theatrical outrage. ¡°Haven¡¯t you caused me enough trouble already?¡±
I blinked, caught completely off guard. Huan was rarely this animated unless he was haggling prices or trying to sell off his more dubious wares.
Liang Chen, for his part, seemed entirely unfazed. In fact, he chuckled. ¡°Good to see you too, Huan. It¡¯s been a while.¡± His smirk returned, but it was lighter this time, almost playful. ¡°Still running things under the Azure Silk Trading Company, I see?¡±
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¡°You know each other?¡± I asked, glancing between them.
Huan turned to me with wide, pleading eyes that would¡¯ve looked ridiculous on anyone else. ¡°Kai, you wouldn¡¯t betray me, right? After everything I¡¯ve done for this village? For you? I got your letter to the Verdant Lotus Sect in time! Surely you¡¯re not going to let him steal my business now!¡±
Liang Chen let out a hearty laugh. ¡°Steal your business? Come now, Huan. I¡¯m not here to compete with you.¡± He turned back to me, his smirk softening. ¡°Your company has a good eye for potential, though. I¡¯ll give them that. It seems we both recognized this village¡¯s promise.¡±
Huan looked skeptical. ¡°Then why are you here, exactly?¡±
Liang Chen gestured to one of his workers, who hurried over with a small crate in tow. ¡°Allow me to demonstrate,¡± he said, lifting the lid to reveal an assortment of tools: woodworking equipment, farming implements, and sturdy-looking building materials. ¡°My company specializes in practical goods and infrastructure support. Tools to make daily life easier for your villagers. Building supplies for expansions. And, should you need it, access to our network for more specialized needs.¡±
I raised an eyebrow. ¡°Building materials?¡±
He nodded. ¡°I go where the money goes. And while your village is small, it¡¯s growing. Word of the Verdant Lotus Sect¡¯s interest in this place wasn¡¯t exactly subtle.¡± His gaze was shrewd, calculating. ¡°Opportunities like this don¡¯t come often.¡±
Before I could respond, he added, almost as an afterthought, ¡°Of course, there was another reason I decided to come here.¡±
I stiffened slightly, still wary of his motives. ¡°And what¡¯s that?¡±
Liang Chen¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°I happened to cross paths with someone I believe you know. Feng Wu, I believe his name was? I found him leaving Crescent Bay. He was traveling alone, so I offered him a ride in one of my carriages in exchange for escorting us with my bodyguards.¡±
My eyes widened. ¡°Feng Wu?¡±
As if on cue, one of the carriages parked near the back creaked open. A familiar figure stepped out.
¡°Kai!¡± Feng Wu called, waving as he strolled over, completely unfazed by the group of workers or the tension in the air. ¡°Long time no see!¡±
Relief flooded through me, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°Feng Wu,¡± I said, my voice lighter than it had been all morning. ¡°You''re back! I thought you were supposed to arrive with the second-class disciples."
"Ah, I had business to attend to. It relates to the Whispering Wind sect, so remind me to update you on that later."
I nodded, though Feng Wu¡¯s words only deepened my curiosity. For now, there were more pressing matters.
Like the fact that every step I took felt like dragging an entire mountain with me.
The second-class disciple''s eyes narrowed as he stepped closer, his grin fading slightly. ¡°Kai, you look... off. Are you limping?¡±
I forced a chuckle, though it came out more like a wheeze. ¡°Just a little... sore from training. Nothing to worry about.¡±
His brow furrowed, his sharp eyes scanning me more closely.
I waved him off, though it took every ounce of willpower to keep my arm steady. ¡°I¡¯ll explain later,¡± I said, trying to inject some finality into my tone. ¡°For now, I need some rest. Thank you, Liang Chen. It was nice meeting you.¡±
Without waiting for his response, I turned and began hobbling toward my shop.
My qi reserves, already strained from reinforcing my body during Elder Ming¡¯s training, were dangerously low. I¡¯d been burning through them just to maintain the semblance of composure in front of Liang Chen and his caravan.
I didn¡¯t dare glance back.
By the time I reached my front door, I was running on fumes. My legs buckled the moment I crossed the threshold, and I collapsed against the wall with a ragged sigh. The shop was quiet, the familiar scent of herbs and faintly sweet incense wrapping around me like a balm. For the first time since morning, I allowed myself a moment to breathe.
¡°Kai?¡± Tianyi¡¯s soft, melodic voice drifted toward me. Her silhouette cast a massive shadow over me. ¡°You''ve fallen. Are you okay?¡±
I opened my mouth to explain but stopped myself. Where would I even begin? Instead, I groaned and waved toward the back of the shop. ¡°Just... carry me to the bed, please.¡±
Tianyi blinked, clearly confused, but didn¡¯t argue. She walked around me, her delicate frame belying the strength she used to support my weight. With a surprising amount of ease, she hoisted me off the ground and guided me toward the bed in the back of the shop.
Halfway there, she paused and cocked her head. ¡°Kai... did you get fatter? Preparing for winter?¡±
Despite the exhaustion, I couldn¡¯t help but snort. ¡°No, it¡¯s not fat. It¡¯s the product of a tribulation.¡±
¡°A tribulation? I see.¡±
She didn¡¯t press further, though it was clear she didn¡¯t fully understand. I didn¡¯t blame her. I wasn¡¯t entirely sure I understood it myself. Once she set me down on the bed, I waved weakly toward the door. ¡°Can you bring me some fresh snow from outside? Just melt it onto the pill furnace.¡±
Tianyi nodded, darting outside without a word. I let out another sigh and closed my eyes, focusing on the faint wisps of qi I still had left. With a final sigh, I let go of my qi reinforcement, letting myself fully sink into the bed.
CRACK!
...Looks like I''ll have to ask Li Wei to fix my bed.
For several minutes, I sat there in silence, cycling my energy inward, drawing what little I could from the environment using the Crimson Lotus Purification. The air was saturated with qi, thanks to Tianyi¡¯s Qi Haven skill, and I could feel it seeping into my pores like a balm for my frayed reserves. Slowly but surely, my reserves began to return with every breath.
When I finally opened my eyes, I glanced toward the furnace. The snow Tianyi had brought was already melting, the reflection on the surface rippling slightly. As I leaned forward, I caught a glimpse of my own reflection¡ªand the massive, black tortoise shell draped across my back.
It gleamed like polished obsidian, its surface smooth yet etched with faint, intricate patterns. I reached out to touch it, but my hand passed through as though it weren¡¯t even there.
¡°Tianyi,¡± I called, my voice steady now. She moved closer, her wings stirring the air. ¡°Can you see anything on my back?¡±
She tilted her head, studying me intently. ¡°No. Why? Are you experiencing hallucinations as a result of this tribulation?¡±
I frowned, glancing at the reflection again. ¡°I¡¯m not hallucinating,¡± I muttered, more to myself than her. ¡°But this... tribulation¡¯s effects are stranger than I thought.¡±
Tianyi didn¡¯t press further, though the concern in her gaze lingered. ¡°If you¡¯re sure...¡±
¡°I¡¯m sure. It¡¯s just... a lot to take in.¡±
Tianyi¡¯s antenna-like strands twitched, but she nodded and stepped back.
I turned my focus back to the reflection on the furnace¡¯s surface. The tortoise shell shimmered faintly, almost alive with some inner energy, its intricate patterns shifting subtly when I blinked. My fingers itched to study it more closely, to analyze whatever this tribulation had brought upon me. But even thinking about it made my back feel heavier, like the shell could sense my curiosity and decided to remind me of its presence.
¡°By the way, Where''s Windy?¡±
¡°He went hunting,¡± she said, her tone matter-of-fact as she dusted off a shelf near the furnace.
I groaned, leaning down on the bed as carefully as I could. ¡°Of course, he did. I told him not to stray too far! We¡¯re in no position to be chasing him if he runs into trouble.¡±
I focused my senses on our emotional link. It was faint. Only Tianyi could detect his location or communicate with him. Perhaps being infused with her energy from his time as an egg led to their bond?
Her glowing eyes blinked at me, wide and unassuming. ¡°He¡¯s grown more confident. You should trust his instincts.¡±
I sighed, sinking deeper into the creaking bed.
Tianyi, utterly unfazed, returned to dusting. Still, her words gnawed at me. Maybe she was right, but that didn¡¯t make it any easier to watch Windy put himself in danger, even if I knew he was more than capable. I suppose this was how Elder Ming felt dealing with me in the beginning.
I let out a long breath, shifting my focus back to the more immediate problem¡ªthe crushing weight on my back and the dire state of my qi reserves.
This wasn¡¯t sustainable. Judging by the weight, the shell must be at least two and a half shi. And from the looks of it, it applied itself evenly throughout my body.
If walking a few steps around the village was enough to drain me, how was I supposed to maintain the shop, handle the villagers¡¯ requests, or even keep up with my cultivation? Every task, no matter how minor, would demand an immense amount of qi just to function normally.
And if I was going to survive this tribulation, or even just make it through the next few days, I needed a plan.
The answer was obvious. Pills. Copious amounts of them.
The irony wasn¡¯t lost on me. It wasn''t that long ago when I¡¯d lectured Lan-Yin and Wang Jun about the dangers of over-reliance on pills.
I glanced toward the furnace. I¡¯d need to refine something potent enough to replenish my reserves without completely depleting my stock. The villagers needed these pills too, and if I burned through everything for my own sake, it would set us all back.
¡°Tianyi,¡± I said, my voice breaking the silence. She turned, her glowing eyes locking onto me.
¡°Yes?¡±
¡°I need your help,¡± I continued, pushing myself upright with a wince. ¡°I¡¯m going to focus on cultivating as much qi as possible, but I need someone to keep an eye on the furnace. And maybe help me fetch ingredients from the storage.¡±
She nodded, her antennae twitching slightly. ¡°Understood.¡±
¡°Thanks,¡± I said, reaching under the table where I kept my personal stash of pills. My fingers brushed against the cool surface of the wooden box, and I carefully brought it down to the bed.
Inside, neatly aligned in rows, were several pills, each gleaming faintly in the light from the furnace. They were my best work; high-grade recovery pills I¡¯d refined over the past month. I¡¯d been saving them for emergencies, either for a battle or if someone was gravely injured.
Well, if this wasn¡¯t an emergency, I didn¡¯t know what was.
Tianyi hovered near the furnace, watching me with her usual detached curiosity.
The next step in surviving this tribulation started now.
As I picked up one of the pills, the faint warmth it radiated seeped into my fingertips, a promise of the energy it held. It was going to be hard. But if I could complete this, then the reward...
I let out a slow breath, preparing myself for the long night ahead.
"Time to see just how far I can push myself."
161. The Lotus Blooms in Fire
The steam from the teapot spiraled upward, curling in delicate tendrils that caught the morning light. I poured carefully, the amber liquid filling the porcelain cups with a shaky flow, as a result of my unsteady hands. Across from me, Feng Wu tapped a single finger against the table, a small gesture of appreciation as he cradled his cup with both hands.
But the serenity didn¡¯t last.
¡°The Black Tortoise Tribulation?¡± Feng Wu¡¯s voice cut through the quiet, laced with disbelief. His brow furrowed as he leaned forward, his cup momentarily forgotten. ¡°This isn''t some joke, right?¡±
I nodded, setting the teapot down. ¡°Nope. No joke.¡±
¡°One of the four mythical beasts. I suppose your claims of being special aren''t so wrong after all,¡¯¡± He shook his head, clearly still trying to process it.
¡°Well, here I am,¡± I said with a shrug, lifting my own cup. My eyes were baggy, and my entire body hurt. Even sleeping was a challenge with this tribulation, and I ended up spending half of my night cycling my qi. ¡°Don''t know whether to call this a blessing or a curse.¡±
Feng Wu didn¡¯t laugh. Instead, he sighed, rubbing his temple. ¡°The Heavenly Interface keeps throwing surprises. The Verdant Lotus Sect has been studying its quirks, and we¡¯ve already adjusted the curriculum to account for the way it accelerates growth. How to trigger certain quests, and how to complete them... It¡¯s made the younger disciples ambitious. Li Na and Han Wei especially. They¡¯re growing steadily.¡±
"Ambitious, huh?" I leaned back, trying to picture the younger disciples clashing over who could outpace the other. ¡°I bet they¡¯re eager to try their skills, but I hope they¡¯re not reckless. Or at least, I hope they¡¯ve mastered bandaging their own scrapes. The only reason I refined my body this far was because of my hydrosol and other medicines.¡±
Feng Wu raised a brow. ¡°You think we¡¯d let disciples train without the basics? Every Verdant Lotus disciple is taught first aid.¡±
I snorted, setting my cup down. ¡°Ah yes, I''ve seen it in action. You all carry medicinal wine in your satchels? So much for being a taoist.¡±
He rolled his eyes, his tone laced with exasperation. ¡°You work with medicines, Kai. You know it¡¯s rooted in practical application.¡±
¡°Oh, I agree,¡± I said, smirking. ¡°But then why go out of your way to make it smell and taste good? I bet you add... let¡¯s see... maybe star anise?¡±
Feng Wu stiffened, just barely, and I grinned. ¡°So I¡¯m right?¡±
¡°It''s a sect secret,¡± he said firmly, though the faint twitch at the corner of his mouth betrayed his amusement.
¡°Sure it is,¡± I teased. ¡°It just seems like its less about wounds and more about giving these taoists an excuse to drink. But Li Na and Han Wei, huh? Good. I¡¯ll look forward to sparring with them again.¡±
¡°Speaking of sparring... Jian Feng. I heard you beat him.¡±
I waved dismissively. ¡°He wasn¡¯t at his best. He was using a staff, which was clearly unfamiliar to him. If it had been hand-to-hand or with a weapon he actually trained with, I wouldn¡¯t have.¡±
Feng Wu smirked. ¡°And yet you still won. Convenient how you neglect to mention the fact that you were holding back, too.¡±
¡°What?¡± I blinked at him, caught off guard.
¡°Oh, don¡¯t play coy,¡± Feng Wu said, leaning back with a knowing grin. ¡°I heard you didn¡¯t use Rooted Banyan Stance or Bamboo Reprisal Counter, all because Elder Ming asked you not to show your hand.¡±
I felt my face heat up. ¡°That¡¯s... different.¡±
¡°Different? How so?¡±
¡°It¡¯s not chivalrous to flaunt that. I¡¯m not arrogant enough to rub my opponent¡¯s face in the fact that I was holding back.¡±
Feng Wu stifled a laugh. ¡°Not arrogant, huh? I could¡¯ve sworn you had a ''young master¡¯ persona you liked to whip out now and then. What happened to that?¡±
I glared at him, though my blush probably ruined the effect. ¡°Could you just tell me about what happened to the Whispering Wind sect? Weren''t they supposed to come by now?¡±
Feng Wu¡¯s smile faded, and his posture straightened, the air between us turning heavy.
¡°They¡¯re delayed,¡± he said, his voice quieter now. ¡°Because of the Silent Moon.¡±
My cup paused halfway to my lips. ¡°What happened?¡±
Feng Wu exhaled, his expression grim. ¡°There¡¯s been a serious conflict in the east. A territory dispute turned into something much bigger. One of the Silent Moon elders, the ones from the mainland; they attacked and injured Tian Zhan.¡±
I nearly dropped my cup. ¡°Tian Zhan? Injured? But he¡¯s one of the Whispering Wind Sect¡¯s strongest!¡±
¡°That¡¯s exactly why this is so serious,¡± Feng Wu said. ¡°Tian Zhan was leading the effort, and now the Whispering Wind Sect is mobilizing for a larger conflict. Their candidate for sect leader being injured is no small matter. The Silent Moon Sect knew what they were doing.¡±
I leaned back, the weight of his words sinking in. ¡°So that¡¯s why they haven¡¯t sent anyone here yet. I¡¯m thankful the Verdant Lotus Sect hasn¡¯t withdrawn their support, then we¡¯d be in a much worse position.¡±
Feng Wu nodded. ¡°Now that Sect Leader has come out of seclusion, things are stabilizing.¡±
My head snapped up. ¡°Sect Leader Shaotian Ye? He¡¯s... out?¡±
¡°Not just out, he¡¯s broken through to the Spirit Ascension stage.¡±
I blinked, stunned. I¡¯d almost forgotten that the sect leader had gone into seclusion months ago.
¡°Spirit Ascension...¡± I repeated numbly. ¡°That¡¯s incredible. So he''s as strong as the Wind Sage now?¡±
¡°Perhaps,¡± Feng Wu agreed. ¡°We have no way of confirming it. The ambient qi levels are rising everywhere, and breakthroughs among elders and sect leaders who''ve plateaued for decades are becoming more common. The balance of power is shifting.¡±
I nodded slowly, my thoughts churning. The ramifications of such a change wasn''t small. But for now, I had to focus on what I could control¡ªlike surviving this tribulation.
Through the window, I caught sight of Tianyi and Windy outside. They were in the snow, Windy darting through the drifts while Tianyi¡¯s wings sparkled in the sunlight as she leapt and twisted in the air. What looked like playful antics was clearly training, the two of them honing their instincts and skills with every movement.
This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it
Despite Windy''s lower cultivation level, his insticts were first-rate, and allowed him to keep up against Tianyi in a way I never could.
The sunlight glinted off the snow outside, illuminating the sharp contrast of Tianyi¡¯s glittering wings and Windy¡¯s sleek, serpentine movements. She spun midair, her wings slicing through the crisp winter air with precision, while Windy whipped his tail in controlled arcs, carving small trenches into the snow. It was hard to tell if they were playing or sparring, but knowing those two, it was probably both.
I sipped my tea, savoring the warmth that seeped through the porcelain. Feng Wu followed my gaze, a faint smile tugging at his lips. ¡°Tianyi¡¯s really something. That Qi Haven skill of hers... It¡¯s no wonder you¡¯ve made so much progress lately.¡±
I raised an eyebrow. ¡°How do you know it wasn''t a result of my heaven-defying talent?¡±
He rolled his eyes. ¡°Fair. It''s also one of the reasons why I came."
I leaned back slightly. ¡°Ah, my genius has drawn you to this village, I see. Figured you''d learn more observing me than training at the sect?"
"PFFT!" He struggled to hold in his laughter. I didn''t see what was so humorous. ¡°No, I meant how long Tianyi¡¯s Qi Haven skill lingers. The sect is curious about the rate of growth.¡±
My brows furrowed. ¡°Study it how?¡±
Feng Wu reached into his robes and produced a slim talisman, its surface inscribed with delicate runes. ¡°This is a qi-measuring talisman. It records the density and quality of qi in an area. I¡¯ll use it today and then repeat the process next month to compare. It''s not very precise though.¡±
My fingers drummed lightly against the table as I stared at the talisman. I frowned as a strange unease coiled in my chest, and I struggled to pinpoint its source.
Perhaps it was the reminder of how Tianyi¡¯s abilities were now under scrutiny¡ªnot just by me, but by others.
Feng Wu looked up from the talisman, his gaze sharpening as he caught my expression.
¡°Kai,¡± he said, his tone firm, ¡°you don¡¯t need to worry. This information won¡¯t leave me. The Verdant Lotus Sect won¡¯t misuse it, on my honor.¡±
His sincerity was clear, but the knot in my chest didn¡¯t loosen. I wasn¡¯t so much worried about Feng Wu or even the Verdant Lotus Sect. It was the possibility of information spreading beyond their control, into hands that wouldn¡¯t hesitate to exploit Tianyi or the village.
¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust you,¡± I said slowly, choosing my words with care. ¡°It¡¯s just... this kind of thing could easily draw the wrong kind of attention. Tianyi¡¯s Qi Haven skill is... unique. If others find out, it won¡¯t be long before they come sniffing around.¡±
¡°I understand. That¡¯s why I¡¯m being as discreet as possible. No one else is involved in this.¡±
I raised an eyebrow. ¡°How do you plan to compare this place to others? The whole province¡¯s qi levels are rising; it¡¯s not exactly subtle.¡±
¡°That¡¯s the challenge,¡± he admitted. ¡°Gentle Wind Village is the first location I¡¯m testing. After this, I¡¯ll repeat the experiment in areas with different influences¡ªsect grounds, other villages, and places rumored to have high natural qi density. For now, I¡¯ll focus on here.¡±
His explanation made sense, but it didn¡¯t entirely soothe my concerns. ¡°And they sent you alone for this?¡±
Feng Wu grinned. ¡°I volunteered. No one else was better suited. Besides...¡± He gestured toward the window, where Tianyi and Windy continued their strange, synchronized dance. ¡°I wanted to see this for myself.¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°You¡¯re a scholar now, huh? Sometimes, I forget you''re not a martial sect. Most of what I¡¯ve seen is that side; swords, fists, and a touch of alchemy.¡±
Feng Wu laughed. ¡°Fair. Alchemy¡¯s the closest you¡¯ve seen to scholarship, I imagine. But the Verdant Lotus Sect values research as much as combat. Understanding how to adapt to the Heavenly Interface, the ambient qi changes¡ªit¡¯s all part of staying ahead. Even our martial techniques are improving because of it.¡±
He picked up the talisman again, turning it over in his hands. ¡°I¡¯ll start with the measurement shortly. Once we have a baseline, I can work on mapping Tianyi¡¯s influence across the area. It¡¯ll take time, but it¡¯s worth it.¡±
I nodded, my fingers tightening slightly around my cup. ¡°Just... keep it safe. I don¡¯t want this place turning into a battleground because someone got greedy.¡±
Feng Wu met my gaze, his expression serious. ¡°I promise. No one will know unless it¡¯s absolutely necessary.¡±
That eased the tension a little, though the knot in my chest didn¡¯t fully unravel. I forced a smile, trying to lighten the mood. ¡°Well, since you¡¯re here, maybe you can teach me some of those scholarly techniques. I might need them if the Heavenly Interface keeps throwing tribulations at me.¡±
As the warmth of the tea settled in, I set my cup down and glanced at Feng Wu. It was the perfect opportunity to bring up something that had been nagging at me for weeks.
¡°There¡¯s something I¡¯ve been meaning to ask you,¡± I started, keeping my tone casual.
¡°Oh?¡±
¡°It¡¯s about the Interface. Have you heard of... technique tokens?¡± I asked, watching his expression closely.
He blinked, tilting his head slightly. ¡°Technique tokens? I¡¯ve never heard of those before.¡±
¡°Yeah, I¡¯ve been getting them as quest rewards. The description says they can upgrade skills or techniques to the next level, even bypassing prerequisites. But...¡± I hesitated, tapping a finger against the table. ¡°I¡¯ve been too nervous to use them.¡±
Feng Wu leaned forward, his attention now laser-focused on the floating tokens. ¡°Bypassing prerequisites to evolve a skill? That¡¯s... fascinating. Why haven¡¯t you tried them yet?¡±
I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck. ¡°Because I don¡¯t fully understand how they work. The system doesn¡¯t exactly come with a manual, and Elder Ming couldn¡¯t give me much advice either. He didn¡¯t want to guide me on something he wasn¡¯t familiar with, which I get.¡±
¡°That¡¯s fair,¡± Feng Wu admitted, his gaze flicking between me and the Interface. ¡°But it¡¯s still surprising you haven¡¯t experimented. Surely you¡¯ve thought about which skills to use them on?¡±
¡°I have,¡± I said, exhaling slowly. ¡°In fact, I¡¯ve considered using one on my cultivation method, the Crimson Lotus Purification technique. It¡¯s slow to gather energy, but it has a purification aspect that only allows pure qi into my dantian. Any impurities are filtered out, which makes my reserves more stable, although it''s agonizingly slow. But... I¡¯m not sure it would work.¡±
Feng Wu¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Why not?¡±
¡°No matter how much I cultivate, it hasn¡¯t advanced. It''s been stuck at level one. That¡¯s why I was thinking of using a token to force it to the next level. But what if it destabilizes everything? What if it messes with the purification process and leaves me with polluted qi?¡±
Feng Wu put a hand to his chin, deep in thought.
¡°I think I have an answer,¡± he said after a moment. ¡°Cultivation methods, especially ones with a purification aspect, are designed to be as precise as possible. Any deviation in the qi flow could cause serious problems. In fact, methods like that are probably never meant to evolve¡ªthey¡¯re already optimized for what they¡¯re supposed to do.¡±
My stomach sank at his words. ¡°You¡¯re saying it might not even be possible to upgrade it?¡±
¡°Not necessarily,¡± Feng Wu said quickly. ¡°But it would explain why it hasn¡¯t leveled up naturally. Most sects don¡¯t develop new cultivation methods for a reason; there¡¯s just too much risk involved. Even minor changes require decades of study and careful testing.¡±
I nodded slowly, letting his explanation sink in. It made sense, but it didn¡¯t make the decision any easier. ¡°So, if the token does work, it might bypass those risks entirely. Or it might just destroy everything.¡±
¡°That¡¯s the gamble,¡± Feng Wu said, his tone measured. ¡°But if it works, it could completely change how you handle this tribulation, right? An upgraded cultivation method would make a huge difference.¡±
I looked at the screen, ruminating my options. Feng Wu¡¯s logic was sound, but the risks still loomed large in my mind. If this went wrong, it wouldn¡¯t just be my cultivation that suffered¡ªit could set me back in ways I couldn¡¯t afford.
Still, the idea of overcoming the Black Tortoise Tribulation with a stronger foundation was tempting. Very tempting.
¡°Let¡¯s see what happens,¡± I murmured, raising the menu.
|
Which skill would you like to apply the Technique Token?
Spiritual Herbalism - 6 (...)
Nature''s Attunement - 6 (...)
Accelerated Reading - 9 (...)
Rooted Banyan Stance - 4 (...)
Crimson Lotus Purification - 1 (...)
Bamboo Reprisal Counter - 1 (...)
Memory Palace Technique - 1 (...)
Refinement Simulation Technique - 1 (...)
Heavenly Flame Mantra - 1(...)
|
I glanced back at Feng Wu, and he looked at me with a reassuring nod.
¡°Alright,¡± I muttered under my breath. ¡°Here goes nothing.¡±
| Are you sure you want to use a Technique Token on Crimson Lotus Purification? This action is irreversible. |
The system¡¯s confirmation window hovered before me, clear and final. And then, I confirmed.
The world vanished.
A flood of sensation and knowledge slammed into my mind like a tidal wave. I gasped as an intense warmth blossomed inside my chest, spreading outward in rapid pulses.
For a split second, I couldn¡¯t feel my body at all, as though I¡¯d been pulled out of myself and suspended in pure, unfiltered knowing.
Patterns. Rhythms. My mind swirled as diagrams and circuits of flowing qi painted themselves across my consciousness in vivid detail. I saw it¡ªthe Crimson Lotus Purification as I¡¯d never seen it before. Every delicate cycle of qi moving through my meridians unfolded before me with clarity so sharp it burned. The breathing technique shifted; its cadence altering slightly, elongating my inhales, and smoothing my exhales.
The Lotus grows in harmony with breath and blood.
A voice¡ªor perhaps just an impression¡ªwhispered into my mind. I couldn¡¯t tell if it came from the system, from myself, or from the technique itself.
The flow of qi wasn¡¯t just a steady stream anymore; it was a carefully choreographed dance. I felt the changes.
The purification process refined itself, no longer a slow, clunky effort but a precise weave of energy. The stagnant, sluggish feeling I¡¯d struggled with for so long vanished like a mirage.
New pathways etched themselves into my awareness. Subtle twists and loops within my meridians I hadn¡¯t realized were there before. I could adjust my qi flow on instinct now, nudging it into optimal patterns with a thought. It was as if someone had shown me a hidden map of my own body, one I never knew existed.
I blinked, my vision refocusing on the table in front of me. My entire body felt weightless yet grounded, as though I¡¯d shed an invisible layer of exhaustion. A faint trail of drool was sliding down my chin, and I hastily wiped it away before Feng Wu could notice.
He did.
¡°You... drooled,¡± he said, a mixture of amusement and concern coloring his voice. ¡°Are you okay? You blanked out for a moment.¡±
I stared at him, still reeling. Words failed me for a long beat before I managed to croak out, ¡°I think... I think it worked.¡±
The system chimed softly, and a window appeared in front of me.
|
Crimson Lotus Purification has evolved to Vermilion Lotus Refinement - Level 1.
Remaining Tokens: 1
|
I swallowed hard, my hands trembling as I absorbed the words.
¡°What happened?¡± Feng Wu asked, leaning forward, his scholarly curiosity fully unleashed now.
I exhaled slowly, my breathing instinctively following the new rhythm etched into my mind. ¡°It... changed. The Crimson Lotus Purification is gone, it evolved. It¡¯s faster and smoother than before! It feels like it was always meant to be like this.¡±
Feng Wu¡¯s brows shot up. ¡°It actually evolved? The system adjusted a cultivation method?¡± His voice wavered between shock and awe. ¡°Kai, do you realize how unheard of this is? Cultivation methods are sacred because tampering with them is dangerous¡ªimpossible, even! But the system... it just¡ª¡±
¡°I know,¡± I muttered, my mind still buzzing from the knowledge. ¡°It didn¡¯t just force a level-up; it improved it. Perfectly. The system knew how to do it.¡±
Feng Wu rubbed his face, muttering something about needing to write a report for his sect. I leaned back in my chair, staring at the ceiling, my thoughts a tangle of awe, disbelief, and rising hope.
If the Heavenly Interface could do this... if it could refine techniques to such perfection... then what else was it capable of?
I glanced over at the second-class disciple with a grin.
"I know what I have to do."
162. A Snake Dreams of the Sky
The snow stretched endlessly around Gentle Wind Village, a pristine white blanket interrupted only by Windy¡¯s sleek, coiled form. His scales, a pale white with a faint blue sheen, blended with the frost, making him nearly invisible save for the glint of his narrowed blue eyes. He rested atop a snowdrift, watching as the villagers bustled about, their faces flushed with admiration as they glanced toward the center of the village.
Toward her.
Tianyi, with her shimmering wings folded behind her back, stood near the gathering of villagers, her human form a delicate contradiction of strength and fragility. She was radiant, ethereal, a figure straight out of their stories. To them, she was nothing short of miraculous.
And then there was him¡ªWindy.
The snake.
The villagers spoke of her transformation in awed whispers, calling her a "miracle," a "blessing." But when their eyes turned to him, they softened with a condescension that cut deeper than the winter chill. He could hear their thoughts as clearly as if they¡¯d been spoken aloud:
Kai¡¯s snake. His pet. Loyal, but nothing more.
Windy¡¯s tail lashed against the snow. His frustration simmered just beneath his smooth scales. He wasn¡¯t just a snake. He wasn¡¯t just anything. He was a predator, an apex creature who had proven his worth time and time again, in battle and in loyalty. Yet the world seemed to value not his power, but Tianyi¡¯s newfound ability to mimic the ones they protected.
''Why must I wear another skin to prove my worth?'' The thought hissed through his mind like venom. ''A serpent does not need wings to fly.''
He coiled tighter, his body instinctively readying to strike, though there was no enemy before him.
Windy¡¯s gaze drifted toward the treeline at the village¡¯s edge, where the wilderness began. The forest loomed beyond it, dark and tangled. A place of danger that Kai and Tianyi had warned him to avoid. But there were paths he could take that skirted its edges, away from the constraints of the village, away from the pitying gazes.
With a flick of his tail, Windy slid from the snowdrift and began weaving his way toward the outskirts of the village. The snow parted easily for him, his movements smooth and fluid despite the bitter cold. His mind raced, each thought sharper than the chill biting at his body.
''Let them call me what they will. I do not need their recognition. I¡¯ll prove my worth to myself.''
As he neared the village¡¯s boundary, a shadow fell across the snow in front of him. He stopped, his tongue flicking out instinctively to sense who had blocked his path. Tianyi¡¯s scent was unmistakable.
¡°Where are you going, Windy?¡± Her voice was gentle, yet it carried the weight of someone used to being heeded. She hovered slightly above the snow, her wings stirring the air in slow, deliberate motions. ¡°Does Kai know?¡±
Windy curled defensively, his eyes narrowing. ''I don¡¯t answer to you. Or anyone. I go where I please.''
Tianyi tilted her head, her antennae-like strands twitching thoughtfully. She wasn¡¯t angry, merely curious. ¡°Then be safe,¡± she said at last, her voice soft. ¡°And come back before dinner.¡±
He flicked his tail dismissively, though a small part of him¡ªone he refused to acknowledge¡ªfelt a flicker of warmth at her words. ''I don¡¯t need your concern.''
¡°And yet you have it,¡± She replied, her smile faint but genuine. She turned back toward the village, her wings fluttering as she left him to his path.
Windy watched her go, his frustration bubbling anew. He didn¡¯t want her care or Kai¡¯s approval. He wanted¡ªneeded¡ªto carve his own place, one that was undeniable, irrefutable. With a determined flick of his tongue, he set off into the wilderness.
The cold bit harder as he ventured further from the village. The snow deepened, and the trees became sparse, their skeletal branches casting jagged shadows across the ground. Windy moved with purpose, his serpentine body undeterred by the terrain, though the chill gnawed at his strength.
The wind howled around him, carrying with it the faint scent of prey; small animals burrowed beneath the snow, their heartbeats faint but detectable. He ignored them. Hunting wasn¡¯t his goal, not today. Today was about freedom, about proving that he could survive, thrive, without the protection of Kai or the village.
The wilderness seemed endless, its silence broken only by the crunch of snow beneath him and the occasional creak of ice-laden branches. His spirit beast constitution kept him moving, but even it couldn¡¯t fully shield him from the raw force of winter. The cold seeped into him, a reminder of the natural order he sought to defy.
''Survival isn¡¯t enough,'' he thought bitterly. ''I need more. I need...''
The word eluded him, but the yearning it represented burned in his chest.
Several li into his journey, the snow thinned as Windy approached a slope. His tongue flicked out instinctively, sensing something unusual below. The air was warmer here, a strange anomaly in the heart of winter. A faint hiss echoed from beneath the snow, carrying the unmistakable cadence of his kin.
Curiosity, mingled with a twinge of disdain, guided his movements. Windy slithered down the incline, his body flowing effortlessly over the frozen terrain until he found a narrow fissure in the ground, partially obscured by snow. The warmth emanated stronger now, a telltale sign of life below. He hesitated only briefly before slipping inside, his sleek form navigating the dark passage with ease.
The chamber revealed itself gradually, the dim light filtering through cracks above. The air was thick, humid compared to the bitter cold outside. Snakes of varying sizes and colors were coiled together in sprawling masses, their bodies intertwined in a survivalist embrace against the winter¡¯s grip. The sight was both awe-inspiring and, to Windy, faintly repellent.
He paused at the edge of the gathering, his presence immediately noticed. Several heads lifted, forked tongues flickering in unison as they assessed him. They did not hiss in warning or challenge but observed him with a quiet curiosity. Even among his own kind, his radiant scales and subtle qi aura marked him as different. Other.
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Windy slithered further into the chamber, weaving between the coils of others. They parted for him, more out of instinct than respect. He sensed their deference but felt no kinship.
''These are my kind,'' he thought, glancing at the dull, earth-toned scales of the others. ''Yet they are not my kin. They survive, but they do not strive.''
Larger snakes occupied the central space, their bulk ensuring dominance over the rest. Windy¡¯s gaze lingered on them, searching for any hint of spirit, of that spark of potential he knew so well from Tianyi and himself. But there was none. They were impressive in size and strength but stagnant.
Creatures content with existing, not evolving.
''Is this what it means to be a snake?'' The thought struck him with surprising bitterness. ''To survive winters in the dark, dreaming of nothing but the thaw?''
For the first time, Windy considered conversing with the others. It was an alien thought to him; he had never sought out the company of his own kind before. The underground chamber was alive with low hisses and subtle movements, a language he understood intrinsically but had rarely used.
He coiled tightly, his tail flicking against the stone floor in thought. When he finally spoke, his voice was sharp and clear.
¡°Do you feel it?¡± he hissed, addressing no one and everyone. ¡°The pull to something greater?¡±
Several heads turned toward him, their interest piqued but their responses hesitant. One particularly large serpent, its dark scales glinting faintly in the low light, shifted closer, its tongue flicking toward Windy.
¡°What greater thing?¡± the larger snake replied. ¡°The sun will return. The thaw will come. This is our time to endure, not dream.¡±
Windy¡¯s eyes narrowed, his tail flicking dismissively. ¡°Endure? Is that all you desire? To wait, huddled in the dark? Strength is not found in waiting. It is forged in striving.¡±
A ripple of unease moved through the chamber, the muted hisses rising and falling in response to his words. The larger snake regarded him with something between curiosity and annoyance.
¡°You speak as if you are above this,¡± it said. ¡°And yet, here you are. A serpent, like the rest of us.¡±
Windy bristled but forced himself to remain composed. ¡°I am here, but I will not stay. I have come to see my kind, but I will not linger in the shadows. I was not made to wait. I was made to rise.¡±
The larger snake seemed unimpressed, its massive coils shifting as it settled back into the mass. The chamber quieted again, the others returning to their state of dormancy, content to ignore him.
He had his answer. These were his kind, but they were not his peers.
Windy settled reluctantly among the coiled masses, his sleek form weaving through the tangled bodies of the hibernating snakes. The warmth of the chamber was a stark contrast to the biting cold above, yet it offered no comfort. He coiled tightly in an isolated corner, his scales brushing against the rough stone floor as he began a slow, deliberate mantra, the words a rhythm in his mind.
A serpent does not need wings to fly. A serpent coils its way to the heavens.
| Your dao is slowly forming. |
The thought echoed within him, steady and unyielding. It wasn¡¯t just a mantra; it was a truth, a declaration of his identity. Windy repeated it silently, letting it root itself in the core of his being. The disdain he felt for the rest of his kin lingered, but he forced himself to observe, to study. If he was to rise, he needed to understand the foundation he sought to transcend.
Time passed in an unmeasured haze. The movements of the snakes around him were subtle and infrequent, a slow shift here, a flicker of a tongue there. The air was thick with the scent of their presence. Windy¡¯s eyes narrowed as he watched the larger snakes dominate the warmer central spaces. Their size alone granted them privilege, but they lacked the spark, the drive, that separated the extraordinary from the ordinary.
''They mistake size for strength,'' Windy thought, his tongue flicking disdainfully. ''They mistake endurance for purpose.''
He adjusted his coils, his tail curling protectively around his core as his instincts remained alert. Despite the lethargy that gripped the chamber, danger lurked here, subtle but present. He was smaller than many of the snakes, but he knew his strength surpassed theirs. His spirit beast nature ensured it, but they wouldn¡¯t see that. To them, size was the only metric of power.
As if on cue, a shadow loomed over him. Windy¡¯s muscles tensed, his senses sharpening. A massive snake, its dull scales mottled with scars, slithered closer. Its movements were deliberate, predatory. Windy¡¯s tongue flicked out, tasting the intent in the air.
It was hungry.
Before the larger snake could strike, Windy moved. His sleek body darted to the side, the attack missing him by the width of a scale. He twisted around, his fangs bared in a warning display. The larger snake hesitated, its dull eyes blinking slowly as if processing the failed strike. It recoiled slightly, confused by the agility of its smaller target.
¡°You dare?¡± Windy hissed, his tone sharp and biting. ¡°Do you not see what I am?¡±
The larger snake regarded him for a moment longer, then slithered away without another attempt. It was too dim-witted to comprehend what had happened but instinctive enough to recognize a threat it didn¡¯t understand.
He glanced around, noting that the others had barely reacted. They had seen the exchange but dismissed it as irrelevant, their dull gazes returning to their own torpid existence.
These snakes were content to wallow in their lethargy, oblivious to the greater world beyond their narrow existence.
If strength was the only language they understood, then he would speak it fluently.
Slowly, deliberately, he began slithering toward the heart of the hibernacula, where the largest snakes coiled in their arrogant complacency. The temperature was warmer here, the air heavy with the combined breath of the dominants. Their hulking forms lay piled on one another, motionless save for the occasional flick of a tail or shift of a massive coil.
Windy¡¯s movements were smooth, his scales glinting faintly in the dim light as he approached the nearest of them; the same one that tried to attack him. The serpent¡¯s size was intimidating. easily five times his length, its girth enough to crush a boar. It barely acknowledged him, assuming him to be no threat.
It was a mistake.
With a blur of motion, Windy struck. His fangs sank into the massive snake¡¯s neck with precision, injecting a burst of venom that stunned the creature. Before it could react, Windy twisted his body around its bulk, constricting with a force far beyond his size. The larger snake writhed, its movements sluggish and uncoordinated compared to Windy¡¯s honed techniques. It thrashed violently but failed to dislodge him. Within moments, it lay still, its dominance stripped away.
The other snakes stirred at the commotion, their dull eyes now fixed on Windy. Whispers rippled through the chamber, hisses of confusion and fear.
¡°He defeated One-Eye,¡± one murmured.
¡°Impossible. He¡¯s too small,¡± another said.
Windy ignored them, his focus already shifting to the next largest snake. This one was more alert, its forked tongue flicking rapidly as it regarded him warily. But caution was no substitute for skill. Windy darted forward, his movements a blur as he coiled around its head, forcing its jaws shut before delivering a series of rapid strikes to its vulnerable underbelly. The fight was over before it began.
The defeated snakes hissed in outrage, their voices rising in a cacophony of bitterness.
¡°As one predator falls, another rises,¡± one murmured, its tone bitter and resigned. ¡°The strongest of our kind was slain, and now he takes its place.¡±
¡°That brute?¡± another spat, its tone laden with scorn. ¡°He wasn¡¯t even a shadow of the power the last apex held. But alas, even that one''s might meant nothing to the shadow in the forest.¡±
Windy froze, his body coiling tighter as their words settled over him like a layer of frost. Shadow? The term pricked at his instincts, carrying a weight far beyond their grumbled disdain. He slithered closer to one of the defeated serpents, his tongue flicking out sharply, his aura a cold and unyielding demand for clarity.
¡°What shadow?¡± Windy¡¯s voice cut through their murmurs, sharp and deliberate. ¡°Speak clearly. What are you talking about?¡±
The snake nearest to him recoiled, its battered pride and aching body reluctant to cooperate. But Windy¡¯s unwavering gaze bore into it, his coiled body radiating a silent but potent menace. Reluctantly, it answered, its voice trembling with a mix of fear and bitterness.
¡°There¡¯s something in the forest,¡± it admitted, its tone low and halting. ¡°A predator, far greater than anything we¡¯ve known. It came from the depths of the forest and killed the apex of this place. None of us dared to face it.¡±
Another snake chimed in, its voice tinged with equal parts fear and resignation. ¡°It claimed its territory in the forest, and now it looms over us, unseen but ever-present. We stay here because we have no choice.¡±
Windy¡¯s tongue flicked again, tasting the truth in their words. His mind churned with the implications, the image of this shadowy predator painting itself vividly in his imagination. Whatever this creature was, it had already marked its dominance in blood, and now it lingered, unchallenged, just beyond the reach of these lesser beings.
His coils tensed further, a spark of challenge igniting within him. He slithered closer to the speaking snake, his voice cutting through the thick, humid air like a blade.
¡°You cower here, waiting for the next shadow to claim you,¡± Windy hissed. ¡°But I will not. Tell me everything you know about this predator.¡±
The hisses of his kind grew quieter as Windy¡¯s demand lingered in the air, his presence casting a long shadow over the defeated serpents. Slowly, they began to speak, their fragmented knowledge spilling forth like scattered embers, illuminating the shape of the danger that awaited.
|
Quest: Path of the Serpent
- Discover the shadow and confirm its existence.
- Overcome a predator that surpasses you in cultivation rank without relying solely on speed.
- Protect your territory.
|
Windy¡¯s tail flicked sharply as he dismissed the screen. The notion of protecting the hibernacula grated against his pride, but the challenge intrigued him. If this shadow had claimed dominance over the forest, then it was his duty to confront it.
He slithered toward the fissure, his body tense with anticipation. The forest loomed in his thoughts, its dangers a distant hum in the back of his mind. Kai and Tianyi¡¯s warnings echoed faintly, but he brushed them aside.
¡°This is not for them,¡± he told himself, his tongue flicking out to taste the cold air as he emerged from the underground chamber. ¡°This is for me. My territory. My strength.¡±
It was night now, and the snow greeted him once more, its chill biting but invigorating. Windy coiled briefly at the entrance to the fissure, his gaze fixed on the treeline in the distance. The forest awaited, its shadows deeper and darker than ever.
With a final flick of his tail, Windy darted forward, leaving the hibernacula behind. He was done waiting. It was time to rise.
163. Burden of the Black Tortoise
I rubbed my temples, sitting cross-legged by the furnace, the faint hum of the Vermilion Lotus Refinement technique threading through my meridians like a calming melody. It had been a week since I upgraded the technique, and though it hadn¡¯t magically solved my problems, it had given me something invaluable.
Breathing room.
My qi reserves were still in a state of being perpetually drained, but at least now I didn¡¯t feel like I was drowning every moment of the day. With the Vermilion Lotus Refinement, my energy cycled more efficiently, letting me reclaim enough qi daily to function somewhat normally without burning through my stash of pills. Even the crushing weight of the Black Tortoise shell felt less oppressive, although perhaps I was just hallucinating.
The door creaked open, and Lan-Yin peeked her head inside. ¡°Morning, Kai! Brought you breakfast!¡± she chimed, holding up a basket of steamed buns.
Behind her, Wang Jun trudged in, carrying a crate of supplies for the shop. ¡°And here''s the shipment from Azure Silk. You¡¯re welcome.¡±
I gave them a tired smile, before slipping into a bow with clasped hands. ¡°This young master promises to repay this debt.¡±
Lan-Yin set the basket on the counter and waved dismissively. ¡°Don¡¯t mention it. You¡¯d do the same for us. Besides, it¡¯s not every day we get to see you being so... slow and clunky.¡±
¡°Wow, thanks for the reminder,¡± I said dryly, taking a bun and biting into it. The warm, fluffy dough melted in my mouth, and for a moment, I forgot about the tribulation entirely.
Wang Jun dropped the crate with a thud, stretching his arms. ¡°This is the last one, according to Huan.¡± He eyed me critically. ¡°You look a bit less like death today.¡±
I gestured to the furnace, where the faint glow of refining heat pulsed softly. ¡°Thank the Vermilion Lotus Refinement for that. It¡¯s not perfect, but it¡¯s keeping me functional.¡±
It was invaluable. But knowing that, I had tried to use my last technique token to upgrade it once more, right after using one while I was with Feng Wu. If it was this good after one upgrade, then what would it become if I used another?
Unfortunately, the Heavenly Interface curbed my enthusiasm.
| You do not have enough tokens to upgrade Vermillion Lotus Refinement. |
The three of us fell into a comfortable silence as they busied themselves with tidying the shop and checking inventory. I watched them work, a pang of gratitude settling in my chest. Over the past week, Lan-Yin and Wang Jun had practically moved in to help me. Between running errands, organizing shipments, and keeping the shop in order, they¡¯d taken on more responsibility than I could have asked for. Even the other villages chipped in, having heard I wasn''t able to move all that well.
I''d have to thank Li Wei later with a new set of energy-boosting elixirs for reinforcing all the furniture I had.
¡°Thanks, really,¡± I said quietly. ¡°For everything.¡±
Lan-Yin waved me off, pretending to be busy with a jar of herbs. ¡°Don¡¯t get all sentimental on us, Kai. You¡¯ll ruin your mysterious, aloof alchemist vibe.¡±
Wang Jun snorted. ¡°Yeah, because that¡¯s what everyone thinks of when they see him. ¡®Mysterious.¡¯¡±
I chuckled, shaking my head. The banter was a welcome distraction, but beneath it, I could feel the steady changes in my body. The weight of the tortoise shell was still there, but I¡¯d grown accustomed to it. My muscles didn¡¯t scream with every step anymore, and my balance had improved enough that I didn¡¯t stumble like a newborn foal whenever I stood up. I''d learn to stand on my bones, aligning my skeleton without relying on my muscles to keep me upright.
With my constant flow of pills alongside Tianyi''s healing, I entered an unceasing state of destruction and rejuvenation. My body was rapidly adapting to the weight; many times faster than even I could anticipate.
It wasn¡¯t just my body, either. My mind had adapted, forced to work in tandem with the Vermilion Lotus Refinement technique to squeeze every ounce of efficiency from my qi.
| Your Mind has advanced to Qi Initiation Realm - Rank 3 |
The constant strain of thinking, planning, and visualizing my energy flow, reducing the waste so I could go about my daily life resulted in my mind reaching the next rank... this tribulation was showing results already.
¡°Hey,¡± Lan-Yin said, snapping me out of my thoughts. ¡°Are you even listening?¡±
I blinked, realizing she was holding up a small pouch. ¡°Sorry, what?¡±
¡°This is for you,¡± she said, tossing it onto the counter. ¡°A little something from the villagers. They¡¯ve all been worried about you, you know. Even if you told them you were just ¡®injured,¡¯ they¡¯ve been talking nonstop about when our herbalist will be back in action.¡±
I picked up the pouch, the faint clinking of coins and small trinkets inside. Warmth spread through me, pushing aside the lingering weight of the shell. ¡°Tell them it won''t be too long. In fact,"
I stood up slowly, brushing off my robes and stretching my arms. With a deliberate motion, I clenched my fist, channeling just enough qi into my right arm to stabilize it, and then threw a punch into the air.
"I should be able to join you all for morning training today."
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The motion was smooth, though I couldn¡¯t deny the sluggishness compared to my usual self.
Lan-Yin and Wang Jun stared at me, wide-eyed.
¡°You can move like that now?¡± She asked, her tone disbelieving.
I grinned, rolling my shoulder. ¡°Barely. But I¡¯ve learned a trick; don¡¯t use qi to support everything at once. Focus it where it¡¯s needed. It¡¯s not perfect, feels like wading through mud, but it¡¯s enough to get by.¡±
Wang Jun crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Then why¡¯d you let us do all the work cleaning your shop for you?¡±
I shrugged, the picture of nonchalance. ¡°I couldn¡¯t let your goodwill go to waste.¡±
The two of them exchanged a glance, then in perfect synchronization, smacked me on the back of the head. But with my weight being multiplied, I barely even moved.
"Ow."
¡°Serves you right,¡± Lan-Yin muttered.
I straightened, rubbing the back of my head. ¡°Fair, fair. Anyway, I¡¯ll head out with you two. I¡¯ve got to see Elder Ming and start training again.¡±
Before I left, I stepped outside, the crisp air nipping at my face. Tianyi was perched on the edge of the roof, her wings shimmering faintly in the winter sun. She looked down at me, and then my friends, before nodding.
¡°I¡¯m heading to Elder Ming¡¯s,¡± I called up to her. ¡°Can you keep an eye on things here?¡±
She leapt gracefully to the ground, her movements as fluid as a dancer¡¯s. Her glowing blue eyes studied me, and without a word, she reached out and placed her hand on my arm. A surge of qi flowed from her into me, refilling my reserves in an instant. It was a torrent, powerful and brimming with vitality, and I felt my fatigue melt away.
¡°Thanks,¡± I said, genuinely grateful, though a frown tugged at my lips. ¡°But... has Windy come back yet?¡±
Tianyi tilted her head slightly, her expression pensive. ¡°He returns at night, but only briefly. By the time you wake, he¡¯s already gone again.¡±
I sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose. ¡°That serpent¡¯s going to be the end of me. What am I supposed to do with him?¡±
¡°You could forbid him,¡± she suggested, though there was no conviction in her tone. She knew as well as I did that it wasn¡¯t that simple. He''d probably strangle me in my sleep if I tried.
I shook my head. ¡°I could, but how would I enforce it? He¡¯s as stubborn as I am.¡±
Tianyi offered a faint smile. ¡°Then trust him.¡±
I sighed again, though her words gave me a sliver of reassurance. ¡°Just keep an eye on things. Let me know if anything comes up.¡±
She gave me a playful salute, her wings fluttering as she watched me leave.
Lan-Yin and Wang Jun were waiting for me by the shop¡¯s entrance, and together, we made our way through the village. A few of the Verdant Lotus Sect disciples dotted the streets, their jade-green robes a familiar sight now. They had settled comfortably into the village, their presence blending with the day-to-day. With their sect courtyard now built, Lan-Yin''s tea house wasn''t as packed anymore. It was comforting to know that they were keeping watch of the village, day or night.
¡°Looks like they¡¯ve made themselves at home,¡± Wang Jun remarked, bowing his head to Jian Feng, who seemed to be part of the early-morning patrol. I waved to him with a smile.
With Feng Wu departing to measure the ambient qi of another area, Jian Feng was the leader of the second-class disciples. And he did his job well.
We reached Elder Ming¡¯s home just as the sun peeked fully over the horizon, casting long shadows across the frost-covered ground. His eyes, sharp as ever, immediately scanned me from head to toe, lingering on my movements as I approached.
¡°You look better than I expected,¡± he admitted, his gaze narrowing. ¡°Are you ready to resume training?¡±
I nodded. ¡°I am. I haven¡¯t been idle. I¡¯ve been visualizing the stances and practicing the Heavenly Flame Mantra in my Memory Palace, just as you told me.¡±
"Good. Then let¡¯s not waste any time. Start your conditioning.¡±
Wang Jun let out a resigned sigh, already rolling his shoulders in preparation. Meanwhile, Elder Ming turned to Lan-Yin and me. ¡°You two, lighter exercises. Lan-Yin, for obvious reasons,¡± he said, nodding toward her visible baby bump, ¡°and Kai, because you¡¯re still adjusting to the weight.¡±
Lan-Yin gave me a sympathetic look as we spread out. I settled into a push-up position, already bracing myself for the strain. The moment I lowered myself to the ground, the familiar pressure of the Black Tortoise shell bore down on me like an invisible mountain.
"One. Two. Three..."
By the time I reached twenty, sweat was dripping down my face. At thirty, my arms trembled. At fifty, I collapsed, gasping for breath.
Lan-Yin, who was practicing slow and deliberate movements nearby, chuckled softly. ¡°Looks like we¡¯re both carrying extra weight these days.¡±
I managed a grin despite my exhaustion.
Elder Ming¡¯s voice cut through the air. ¡°That¡¯s enough resting, Kai. Into the horse stance. Hold it until I say otherwise.¡±
Groaning, I pushed myself upright and spread my feet into position, lowering my center of gravity. The stance burned my thighs almost immediately, but I grit my teeth and bore through it. Elder Ming walked around me, occasionally nudging my arms or legs to adjust my posture.
¡°This is progress,¡± he said after several minutes of silent observation. ¡°You¡¯ve adapted to the weight.¡±
¡°Still doesn''t make it any less frustrating.¡± I muttered under my breath. I used to be able to do this stance in my sleep, with how often I practiced it. But now, it was reduced to a mere fraction.
He ignored me. ¡°You can begin practicing the Heavenly Flame Mantra again¡ªbut only the footwork and stances, maybe some non-contact sparring. Attempting the full Dance of a Thousand Flames in your condition would incinerate you.¡±
I sighed, knowing he was right. ¡°Got it.¡±
As I transitioned into the foundational stances of the Heavenly Flame Mantra, I focused on drawing qi into my palms. The heat began to build, spreading across my skin like a slow burn. It was a delicate balance; too little qi and the flames would sputter out, too much and I¡¯d exhaust my reserves in seconds.
The added weight of the shell made even the simplest movements a challenge. My steps were heavy, deliberate, and the strain forced me to concentrate on every shift of my balance. Every so often, I reminded myself to stand as efficiently as possible, letting some of my muscles relax, conserving stamina and qi wherever I could.
¡°Good,¡± he said finally. ¡°That¡¯s enough for now. Wang Jun, spar with Kai. Non-contact.¡±
Wang Jun cracked his knuckles, a wide grin spreading across his face. ¡°This should be fun.¡±
I rolled my shoulders, trying to ignore the knot of apprehension in my chest. Wang Jun would be fast; far faster than I was in my current state. The only way I could keep up was to outthink him, using the weight of the shell to force myself into a new rhythm.
The first exchange came quickly. Wang Jun lunged, his movements fluid and precise. I barely had time to react, shifting my weight and pivoting to avoid his strike. My counterattack was slower, a sweeping kick meant to keep him at bay rather than land a hit.
He dodged easily, his grin widening. ¡°You¡¯re going to have to do better than that.¡±
I adjusted my strategy, funneling a small amount of qi into my legs to enhance my mobility. It wasn¡¯t enough to match his speed, but it gave me just enough to make it competitive. I feinted left, then stepped back, forcing him to overcommit to his next attack. As he recovered, I brought my arm up in a defensive motion, letting the momentum carry me into a counterstrike.
The weight of the shell forced every movement to be precise. There was no room for wasted energy, no margin for error. It felt like a game, one where I had to think two moves ahead just to keep up. Every strike Wang Jun threw demanded an efficient response, a single move to counter two of his.
By the time Elder Ming called for a break, my body was drenched in sweat and my qi reserves were dangerously low. Even though it was non-contact, it felt like I''d gone through a gauntlet. I dropped to one knee, gasping for air, but a faint sense of satisfaction lingered beneath the exhaustion.
¡°You¡¯re doing well despite your handicap,¡± Elder Ming said, his tone approving. ¡°Rest. Continue to circulate your qi and bring your reserves back to acceptable levels before we repeat the process."
I nodded, collapsing cross-legged onto the frost-covered ground. The Vermilion Lotus Refinement technique hummed through my body, its steady rhythm soothing the chaos in my meridians. My breaths were heavy, each exhale forming a cloud of vapor in the cold air.
Wang Jun sat beside me, looking far too comfortable compared to my aching state. He stretched his arms overhead, letting out a satisfied groan. ¡°You know, this feels pretty good,¡± he said, a lopsided grin on his face. ¡°For once, I¡¯m the one in control during sparring. Usually, it¡¯s you pulling your punches to help me improve.¡±
I snorted, too drained to fully engage in the banter. ¡°Don¡¯t get used to it. Once this shell is off me, I¡¯ll make you regret every second you enjoyed this.¡±
Lan-Yin chuckled from her spot, where she was practicing her footwork. ¡°You two are like children.¡±
Wang Jun grinned, unabashed. ¡°What can I say? Watching Kai struggle is a rare treat.¡±
I rolled my eyes, but a small smile tugged at my lips. ¡°Enjoy it while it lasts. Honestly, I don¡¯t mind this as much as I thought I would.¡±
He raised an eyebrow. ¡°Really? You looked like you were dying five minutes ago.¡±
¡°Sure, it¡¯s exhausting,¡± I admitted. ¡°But this extra weight forces me to think differently. Every movement has to be deliberate, efficient. I¡¯ve already learned more from one sparring session than I might¡¯ve in a week of regular practice.¡±
Elder Ming, who had been observing from the side, nodded approvingly. ¡°That¡¯s the right mindset. This tribulation is not just a trial of endurance but an opportunity for growth. Those who treat it as such come out of it stronger.¡±
I felt a spark of pride at his words, despite the lingering fatigue. My mind drifted to the steady progress I had made over the past week; the adjustments I had learned, the insights I had gained. Every step forward brought me closer to the end of the Black Tortoise Tribulation, and I could feel the faintest glimmers of hope that I would complete it sooner than I had expected.
The thought buoyed me as I closed my eyes, letting the Vermilion Lotus Refinement technique soothe my aching body. Despite the weight on my shoulders, there was a lightness in my heart that hadn¡¯t been there before.
This was the path forward. Soon, I''d rise.
164. One Bamboo Shoot, A Thousand Possibilities
My voice rang out across the crisp morning air.
Today was the day.
¡°It¡¯s ready! It¡¯s ready!¡±
Tianyi, perched on the roof as usual, tilted her head curiously, her wings twitching in my direction.
Sliding the greenhouse door open, I stepped into the humid warmth, the scent of fresh vegetation wrapping around me like a comforting blanket. My gaze swept past rows of thriving herbs and hybrid plants until it landed on the star of the show: the Golden Bamboo shoot.
It was magnificent.
The bamboo shoot stood just shy of the greenhouse ceiling. Its golden surface shimmered faintly. Though it was still a shoot, its flesh tender and brimming with vitality, it radiated with qi.
¡°Insane growth for less than a month,¡± I murmured, crouching beside the shoot. There was no doubt infusing essences had to do with it''s extraordinary growth rate.
I reached out, running my fingers over the golden surface. Unlike the harder culms the bamboo would eventually grow into, the shoot was firm but pliable under my touch. The warmth of life thrummed through it, the energy almost tangible. The yang-based ingredients I¡¯d planted, extracted and used as fuel for its growth, had clearly worked wonders.
This wasn¡¯t just a success. This was a triumph.
I managed to revive an extinct species.
Pulling a small knife from my belt, I lined it up carefully against the base of the shoot. This would be my first harvest, and I wanted it to be perfect. But as I pressed the blade against the shoot, I felt the resistance immediately. Despite its tender appearance, the base was incredibly tough. The knife barely nicked the surface before slipping off entirely.
¡°Seriously?¡± I muttered, inspecting the blade and seeing the edge dulling before my eyes. ¡°Wang Jun just had this sharpened. How is this even possible?¡±
Sitting back on my heels, I scratched my head, staring at the shoot in frustration. Exerting more force was impossible. Not with this knife, nor my current state with the Black Tortoise Tribulation.
¡°Tianyi!¡± I called out, glancing toward the greenhouse entrance.
A moment later, she glided inside, her wings folding behind her. Her eyes flitted between me and the bamboo shoot. ¡°What is it?¡±
¡°This,¡± I said, gesturing to the shoot. ¡°Can you... you know, slice it with your wings?¡±
¡°You want me to cut it for you?¡±
¡°Exactly. Just the base, where it¡¯s the hardest. I¡¯ll handle the rest.¡±
She nodded, stepping closer to inspect the bamboo. ¡°Mark where I need to cut.¡±
I took a step back, giving her space as she unfurled her wings. They shimmered with a faint, ethereal glow, the edges sharp enough to gleam like blades. She stepped forward, her movements deliberate and precise.
"Oh, and don''t hit the other plants! Or the glass! It''ll shatter."
She paused briefly, aligning herself with the marks I¡¯d made. For a brief moment, her wings brightened.
The motion was fluid, almost artistic, as her wing sliced cleanly through the bamboo with a faint hum. The top portion of the stalk fell away, and I caught it just before it hit the glass.
Tianyi straightened, folding her wings back with a satisfied expression. ¡°Done.¡±
I knelt to inspect the cut, running my fingers along the edge where her wing had sliced through. It was flawless¡ªsmooth and precise, with not a single splinter or jagged edge. The remaining stalk hummed faintly, its golden surface undamaged and ready to grow anew. even without using all the seeds, I''d be able to grow it once more. I''d just have to watch it from encroaching upon the other plants in the greenhouse.
¡°Perfect,¡± I said, looking up at her with a grin. ¡°This young master won''t forget the grace you''ve shown. Thanks.¡±
She gave a faint smile, but the words that left her mouth threw me off guard.
¡°Such a trivial matter is hardly worth remembering.¡±
"You''re reading too much Liang Feng!" I said in disbelief. "That''s not polite."
"My conduct is beyond reproach." She said ominously, hiding her face with her sleeve. I shook my head.
With the top portion of the bamboo safely in my hands, I set it gently on the workbench inside my shop. Now came the real challenge. Using a heavier-duty knife from my toolkit, I set to work separating the culm into sections. The knife sliced through the upper portions cleanly, but as I worked my way toward the base, the resistance grew.
Just from a glance, I could tell the shoot was brimming with vitality. But the base, the culm, was something else entirely. It felt more like a material, something meant to be worked into tools or furniture rather than consumed or refined.
Carefully, I sectioned the bamboo, setting aside the softer outer layers for testing. I ran my fingers over the inner segments, marveling at the slight warmth they emitted. Each piece seemed to vibrate faintly, as though it held a rhythm of its own, alive even after being harvested.
Tianyi leaned against the wall, her gaze fixed on me as I worked. ¡°What do you plan to do with it?¡± she asked.
¡°Test it,¡± I replied simply, holding up a thin outer strip of the bamboo. ¡°I need to understand its essence before deciding how to use it. If the outer layer alone is this potent, who knows what the core holds?¡±
Placing the strip in my palm, I activated my Essence Extraction skill, channeling qi into the material. A faint golden glow emerged, coalescing into a single drop of shimmering liquid in my palm. It was small, almost disappointingly so, but the energy it radiated was undeniably potent. I carefully stored it in a glass vial, sealing it tightly before setting it aside.
¡°The essence is concentrated in the inner layers,¡± I muttered, more to myself than to Tianyi. ¡°This outer layer is strong, but it doesn¡¯t hold nearly as much energy as I expected.¡±
I moved, already shifting my attention to the denser segments I¡¯d set aside. The core pieces practically thrummed with life, their golden sheen more vivid than the outer layers. My instincts, and the subtle prompts from Nature''s Attunement, told me these pieces were the true treasure.
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With a steady hand, I placed a core segment on the workbench and began the extraction process again. This time, the resistance was palpable, the bamboo fighting against the pull of my qi. A bead of golden liquid formed in my palm, larger and brighter than the first. Its energy pulsed like a tiny heartbeat, almost alive in its intensity.
¡°Now we¡¯re talking,¡± I murmured, carefully transferring the essence into a larger vial.
Tianyi watched in silence, her gaze sharp and analytical. ¡°What¡¯s your plan for the rest of it?¡±
¡°Research,¡± I said, straightening and wiping my brow. "The details from Guowei Wang were a bit scarce. I need to find out its exact properties and potential. First, I¡¯ll test if it behaves like regular bamboo in alchemical recipes or if it¡¯s entirely unique.¡±
¡°You¡¯re expecting the latter?¡±
¡°Probably,¡± I admitted, gesturing to the vials of golden essence. ¡°But there¡¯s no harm in covering the basics. I¡¯ll start with the fundamentals: see if it reacts to heat and flame like normal bamboo, if it burns cleanly, and whether it leaves any unique ash residue. This could be a catalyst, an amplifier, or even an entirely new base ingredient for pills or elixirs But before I get ahead of myself, I¡¯ll isolate the core essence and run compatibility tests with other ingredients. If it clashes with common components, it might require a specific refinement method.¡±
I set the piece down and moved to the next section, this one smaller but denser. As I began to shave thin layers from it, Tianyi¡¯s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. ¡°And the outer layers? They seemed weaker, but you didn¡¯t discard them.¡±
¡°Never discard unless you¡¯re absolutely sure it¡¯s useless,¡± I replied, holding up a sliver of the outer bamboo. ¡°They may not have as much raw essence, but they might hold some other property. I¡¯ll experiment with its tensile strength and how it channels qi. Maybe Wang Jun or Li Wei could have some use for it. I''m interested in seeing a mature Golden Bamboo, but that''ll have to wait.¡±
Figuring out how to use the Golden Bamboo in pills was first and foremost. To uphold my end of the deal with the Whispering Wind and Verdant Lotus, I''d make sets of body refining pills, either with the Golden Bamboo or plants infused with its essence.
But I''d have to test them first! On myself!
"This is a sacrifice for the greater good! Testing such a rare material on myself... Who else could shoulder this burden?¡±
The idea of testing the Golden Bamboo¡¯s essence on myself was exhilarating. If it lived up to even half of my expectations, it could be a breakthrough for my body, which was exactly what I needed for the tribulation.
But I forced myself to temper my enthusiasm. There was no point in rushing and potentially wasting such a rare resource. The rest of the bamboo needed to be properly stored and studied.
"I''ll finish this after morning training."
With care, I packed the sections into a sturdy wooden box and carried it to my bedroom. It wasn¡¯t much, but it would keep curious hands away for now. I had to go train.
I grabbed my cloak, slung it over my shoulders, and stepped out into the crisp morning air, bidding Tianyi farewell. The snow crunched underfoot as I made my way toward Elder Ming¡¯s house. The weight of the Black Tortoise Tribulation still pressed on me, but it was no longer the oppressive burden it had been a week ago. My steps were steady, though slower than normal, each one deliberate. The snow yielded easily beneath my boots, cushioning my movements.
As I approached the main path, I spotted Liang Chen standing near a wagon loaded with goods, explaining some of his offerings to the villagers. His sharp features and somewhat sly smile gave him the air of a seedy merchant, but he hadn''t shown any tendency he was plotting to take over the village.
He noticed me and waved, his grin widening.
¡°Kai Liu.¡± he called out, his voice warm despite the chill in the air. "Out and about so early? Eager to look at our wares?"
I chuckled, adjusting my cloak. ¡°Not quite. Morning training calls. And you? What¡¯s the occasion?¡±
¡°Ah, the same as ever,¡± he replied, gesturing to the wagon. ¡°The usual supplies. Though I did bring a few specialty items. Let me know if you¡¯re interested.¡±
My gaze flicked to the rough-looking men accompanying him, their hardened faces and weathered clothes a stark contrast to the polished demeanor of most merchants I¡¯d met.
Liang Chen followed my gaze and spoke before I could ask. ¡°They¡¯re from Crescent Bay. People who¡¯ve had a rough go of things. Some were living in poverty, others... well, let¡¯s just say they¡¯ve seen the worst the city has to offer. Nobody wanted to hire them, but I figured I''d give them a chance. They''re as hard-working as can be.¡±
I studied the men more closely, their guarded expressions and quiet demeanor speaking volumes.
¡°You¡¯re more generous than you look. To be honest, I thought you were just another shrewd merchant the first time we met.¡±
He laughed, clapping a hand to his chest. ¡°A shrewd merchant? I take that as a compliment! But don¡¯t let the exterior fool you. Every good deal needs a little heart.¡±
¡°Careful, Chen,¡± a familiar voice interjected. Huan emerged from behind the wagon. ¡°If you steal away my best customer, the patriarch will have my head! I''ll haunt you in the afterlife!¡±
I couldn¡¯t help but laugh at the theatrics. ¡°Relax, Huan. My loyalty is with you. But,¡± I added, glancing at Liang Chen, ¡°it¡¯s good to know my options.¡±
Huan groaned, throwing his hands up dramatically. ¡°Options, he says! The betrayal!¡±
¡°Competition breeds excellence,¡± Liang Chen replied smoothly.
Shaking my head at their antics, I continued on my way. I rolled my shoulders, preparing myself for the day ahead.
The first thing I noticed as I entered the courtyard of Elder Ming¡¯s house was Wang Jun and Lan-Yin sitting on a rock, their breath misting in the cold air. They were on break, sharing cups of tea.
But as I drew closer, I saw the way Wang Jun hovered near her, his hand resting lightly on the bench close to her, almost protectively.
It was subtle, but the warmth between them was palpable. The way Lan-Yin leaned slightly toward him when she spoke, the faint smile that tugged at her lips whenever he replied. His gaze flickered every now and then to her baby bump, a mix of worry and pride clear in his expression. It was... sweet, in a way that made me roll my eyes internally.
I wasn''t jealous! Nope.
¡°Morning, you two,¡± I called out, breaking their bubble as I stepped into the courtyard. ¡°Taking a break already? Slackers.¡±
Lan-Yin glanced up, her cheeks pink from the cold¡ªor maybe from embarrassment.
¡°We¡¯ve been up since dawn, thank you very much,¡± she retorted, but her tone lacked its usual sharpness. ¡°What about you? Finally dragged yourself out of the greenhouse?¡±
¡°Hardly,¡± I replied with a smirk, before nodding toward her and Wang Jun. ¡°So, about this whole ¡®betrothed¡¯ thing. Are you two speeding up the wedding now that...¡± I trailed off, gesturing vaguely at her bump.
Wang Jun rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. ¡°We don¡¯t have much of a choice, do we? My parents nearly beat me black and blue when they found out. Said I was an embarrassment to the family name.¡±
Lan-Yin snickered. ¡°Meanwhile, my parents were just amused. They called it ¡®young love¡¯ and said it¡¯s about time.¡±
¡°Typical,¡± I said, crossing my arms and shaking my head in mock disappointment. ¡°Both families will lose face. Two hot-blooded teens who can¡¯t even control themselves. What a scandal!¡±
She gave me a flat look, while Wang Jun tried to stifle a grin. ¡°Keep talking, Kai,¡± she warned, ¡°and you¡¯ll be eating snow for lunch.¡±
Elder Ming stepped out of the house, teapot in hand.
¡°Kai,¡± he said gruffly, ¡°stop gossiping and start warming up. Light sparring with Wang Jun after.¡±
¡°Yes, Elder,¡± I replied, bowing slightly before moving to the practice area. Lan-Yin waved me off with a smug grin.
I started with some basic stretches and footwork drills, easing my body into motion. The weight of the Black Tortoise Tribulation was still there, but it felt less like a mountain crushing me and more like a persistent, annoying burden. The human mind was truly adaptable.
By the time Elder Ming called me over, I was ready to go.
Wang Jun stepped onto the practice ground with me, rolling his shoulders. ¡°Non-contact sparring again, right?¡±
¡°No, Kai needs to push himself further. His movements are smoother now, and it¡¯s time he gets back into full sparring. Nothing excessive, but enough to test his limits.¡±
I grinned, the challenge sparking a flicker of excitement. ¡°Perfect. Let¡¯s make this quick, Wang Jun. I have more important things waiting for me after this practice.¡±
Wang Jun smirked, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Big words for someone I had to help with chores because they couldn''t even move last week.¡±
My mind raced as I observed his posture, analyzing his likely moves. Narrowing it down, I anticipated three possibilities.
He moved.
True to form, Wang Jun led with a feint; a sharp jab toward my face, before dropping into a low sweeping kick aimed at my legs. I was ready. Pivoting on my back foot, I let his kick glide past, the momentum leaving him slightly off balance. Seizing the opportunity, I launched a precise counterstrike, my fist landing lightly below his rib.
A notification flashed briefly in my mind.
|
Quest: Beyond the Memory Palace
- Successfully evade or counter 10 different attacks by predicting their trajectories using a simulated visual map in real time. (10/10)
- Land 5 precise hits on a moving opponent using openings simulated beforehand. (4/5)
- Use the Refinement Simulation technique on an alchemical reaction mid-combat to create an advantage. (0/1)
|
I couldn¡¯t suppress a grin. The tribulation might have slowed my body, but it had sharpened my mind. Every move felt deliberate, calculated; like a living embodiment of my Memory Palace technique. The endless drills, the constant strain, and the enforced efficiency had transformed my combat style into something more methodical and refined, and it bled into my other quests as a result.
But Wang Jun wasn¡¯t about to make things easy. Using his superior reach and physical strength, he kept me at bay with a series of calculated strikes, forcing me to waste energy just staying out of his range. Clever bastard.
Every step felt heavier as I moved, the multiplied weight dragging at my legs like invisible chains. It was frustrating.
Why was I treating my weight as a weakness?
The thought clicked, sharp and immediate. If my body was heavier, why not use that to my advantage? Instead of fighting against it, I could turn it into a weapon.
¡°Elder Ming,¡± I called, keeping my eyes on Wang Jun. ¡°Permission to increase the intensity? I want to test something, but it''s hard to do when we''re both holding back.¡±
Elder Ming¡¯s sharp gaze flicked between us, then he nodded. ¡°Do it. But don¡¯t let it turn reckless.¡±
Wang Jun cracked his knuckles, a wide grin spreading across his face. ¡°You¡¯re on.¡±
He lunged, his punch carrying the weight of his entire body. I braced, channeling qi into my arms to block. The impact sent me skidding back half a step despite my immense weight, a testament to his raw strength, honed through countless hours in the forge.
¡°That all you got?¡± I taunted, masking the sting in my arms.
He was already closing the gap for another strike. But I was ready. Drawing a deep breath, I funneled qi into my legs, focusing on the connection between my feet and the ground. As he launched his next attack, I lifted my leg high, casting a shadow over Wang Jun.
The fourth stance of the Twelve Harvest Moon. An identical axe kick to the one Ping Hai used against me, so long ago.
With my increased weight, the kick came down like a falling boulder. Wang Jun moved to block, his forearms raised instinctively.
"Ugh!"
But the sheer force drove him downward, his arms buckling under the impact. His knees hit the ground as he struggled to push back, but before he could recover, I stepped forward, my hand raised for a finishing blow.
My hand came down, grabbing his ear. I felt a sense of satisfaction, seeing my ploy worked flawlessly.
¡°Victory goes to me, as always.¡±
He opened his eyes, glaring at me as he rubbed his ear. ¡°Hey! That hurt.¡±
¡°Sorry,¡± I said with a grin, offering him a hand to stand. ¡°But you have to admit¡ªlosing to me while I¡¯m still weighed down? That stings, doesn¡¯t it?¡±
Wang Jun shook his head, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. ¡°I¡¯ll give you this round. Next time, you won¡¯t land a single hit. I was just tired!¡±
¡°Excuses, excuses." I replied, already feeling the adrenaline fading as the weight of the Black Tortoise Tribulation settled back onto my shoulders. I helped Wang Jun to his feet, and continued on with morning training.
165. Shadows Linger in the Light of Breakthrough
The morning sun hung high, its rays piercing through the frost-covered trees as training came to an end. I stood in the courtyard, drenched in sweat, steam rising in the cool air of winter.
My muscles ached, my breath came in labored gulps, but there was a strange vitality coursing through me.
Elder Ming walked up to me, leaning on his staff, his sharp eyes scanning my posture. ¡°You¡¯ve improved,¡± he said, his tone measured. ¡°It¡¯s not perfect, but it¡¯s enough.¡±
I nodded, wiping the sweat from my brow. ¡°Enough to spar without collapsing, at least.¡±
He snorted, the corner of his lips quirking upward. ¡°Enough to finish this tribulation, perhaps.¡±
I tilted my head, curiosity piqued. ¡°What do you mean?¡±
He gestured toward the horizon, pointing in the direction of the village outskirts. ¡°The banyan tree,¡± he said simply. ¡°You¡¯ve reached the point where you should be able to make a dent. One blow, correct? That¡¯s all it takes to break through.¡±
My stomach tightened. Of course, I knew. The tree was ancient, its roots sprawling across the earth like a web of veins. It had been the focal point of the quest, a symbol of the tribulation¡¯s end. If I could dent the tree, I''d finish the tribulation and be free of this troublesome weight.
I clenched my fist. My fingers trembled slightly, though I wasn¡¯t sure why. The unease that stirred in my chest wasn¡¯t logical. I was stronger now, better prepared. This should have been cause for celebration, not hesitation.
So why was I like this?
¡°I¡¯ll do it,¡± I said, forcing a confident nod. ¡°Soon.¡±
His sharp gaze lingered on me for a moment before he nodded. ¡°Good. We''ll be able to return to refining the Heavenly Flame Mantra once you do so."
As I turned to leave, I caught Wang Jun and Lan-Yin lounging on the training grounds, their faces flushed from their respective drills. I waved to them. ¡°I¡¯ll see you two later. Going to refine the Golden Bamboo. If I''m blessed by the heavens, I''ll have some new pills for the both of you to try!¡±
"Good luck, don''t blow yourself up!" Lan-Yin called out.
I couldn¡¯t help but whistle as I trudged home, my legs heavy but my spirits light.
Back at the shop, the familiar scent of herbs and parchment greeted me like an old friend. I glanced around, not seeing Tianyi anywhere. But from our bond, I could feel she was somewhere within the perimeter. Probably training, or doing her own thing. I shook my head, focusing on the task at hand.
I stepped inside, my gaze immediately drawn to the bedroom. The pieces I had so painstakingly cut and prepared sat in a box.
¡°This is it,¡± I murmured, running a hand over the smooth surface of a bamboo segment. ¡°Time to experiment.¡±
Hours later, the world outside had dissolved into darkness. The soft glow of lantern light filled the shop, casting long shadows across the walls. My hands moved with practiced precision, grinding, mixing, and heating ingredients. The first attempts had been... less than successful.
I winced, glancing at the charred remnants of one failed batch still smoldering in a corner. ¡°Guess I should note down to never combine Golden Bamboo with Sunfire Blade Grass without stabilizing agents.¡±
A sharp cough escaped my throat, the lingering effects of accidental poisoning still scratching at my lungs. I¡¯d underestimated the potency of the essence, and the resulting fumes had nearly knocked me unconscious. Luckily, Tianyi had been nearby to pull me out of the shop before I joined the ancestors.
But now, after countless missteps and moments of inspiration, I held success in my hands.
The pill was small but perfect, its surface smooth and glistening like polished amber. It radiated a faint golden light, the energy within it palpable even without direct contact.
I leaned back in my chair, exhaustion washing over me in waves. My fingers trembled as I held the pill up to the light, admiring the way it seemed to capture and reflect the lantern¡¯s glow.
The Golden Bamboo had lived up to its reputation, though not without testing every ounce of my patience and skill. The process had pushed me to my limits, forcing me to adapt and innovate in ways I hadn¡¯t anticipated.
| Spiritual Herbalism has reached level 7. |
I set the pill down carefully, thinking on my next move.
"Hm... Golden Pill of Radiance?" I muttered aloud, turning the vial in my hand. "No, too pompous. Maybe something simpler. Bamboo Essence Core? Nah, sounds like something you¡¯d find on the discount shelf."
I drummed my fingers on the table, racking my brain for inspiration. The pill glistened under the lantern light, its golden sheen almost mocking me.
Every name I thought of sounded either overly dramatic or utterly forgettable.
¡°This is harder than actually making the pill,¡± I muttered, rubbing my temples.
At that moment, Tianyi stepped into the room with the top of her hair covered in snow, her wings folding neatly behind her. She glanced at the mess I¡¯d made; ash stains, shattered vials, and a faint scorch mark on the ceiling.
"You made it." she said.
I nodded, gesturing at the pill. ¡°Yeah, but now I¡¯m stuck. What do I even call this thing? Everything I come up with either sounds ridiculous or like something someone else already named.¡±
Tianyi hummed for a moment. She stepped closer, studying the pill for a moment before speaking. ¡°Golden Drop.¡±
I blinked. ¡°Golden Drop?¡±
She nodded, her expression calm. ¡°It¡¯s simple. Easy to remember. And it describes what it is.¡±
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I stared at her, then back at the pill. ¡°Golden Drop, huh?¡± I turned the name over in my mind. It was straightforward, maybe a little plain, but it rolled off the tongue nicely. And there was a certain elegance to its simplicity.
¡°You know what?¡± I said, smiling. ¡°It works. Let¡¯s go with Golden Drop.¡±
I picked up the pill, holding it between my thumb and forefinger as I turned to her. ¡°Guess that makes you the co-creator of this masterpiece. I¡¯ll make sure to share the glory with you when I reveal it to the world.¡±
¡°Your generosity knows no bounds.¡±
I chuckled, popping the pill into my mouth without hesitation. The moment it touched my tongue, a warm, golden energy coursed through me, spreading like sunlight breaking through a foggy morning.
I crossed my legs, closing my eyes as I focused on the surge of power. The Vermilion Lotus Refinement technique hummed to life, guiding the energy through my meridians with a newfound ease. But this energy was unlike anything I had experienced before. It wasn¡¯t just replenishing my qi reserves. it was weaving into my body, permeating my muscles and bones.
So this was the difference between a regular pill and a body refinement pill.
Each inhale drew the energy deeper, and the technique¡¯s purification process accelerated to match the intensity of the pill. The essence of the Golden Drop worked in harmony with the Vermilion Lotus Refinement, amplifying the speed and efficiency of purification beyond what I thought possible.
Was it extremely compatible with my physique?
My entire being felt alive, vibrant, as though every cell had been ignited with a golden flame.
Time slipped away unnoticed. Minutes? Hours? I couldn¡¯t tell. My focus remained sharp, every ounce of my will dedicated to controlling the flow of energy. It was strong; surpassing the potency of my share of the beast core elixir. The impurities within my body, which I thought I had already dealt with, surged to the surface with alarming potency.
The first breakthrough came with a crackling sensation that rippled through my muscles. My body surged with strength as the refinement reached its peak.
| Body has advanced to Qi Initiation Realm - Rank 2. |
The notification was almost secondary to the sensation itself. My physical form felt more robust, like steel tempered through countless hammer blows. The weight of the Black Tortoise shell which pervaded every movement, felt less of a burden than before. But the energy didn¡¯t stop there; it pushed further, deeper into my dantian.
The Vermilion Lotus Refinement roared, a crimson flower blooming within the swirling currents of qi. My reserves expanded, the energy condensing and purifying with startling efficiency. I felt the threshold looming, the line between one stage and the next. After all the pills I consumed to keep myself afloat during the tribulation, the Golden Drop was the final component I needed to breakthrough.
And with a final surge, I crossed it.
| Qi has advanced to Essence Awakening Realm - Rank 1. |
The difference was immediate and profound. My dantian pulsed with a newfound depth.
But then, the inevitable came.
A wave of black sludge erupted from my pores, the impurities expelled by the pill¡¯s purification. The stench hit me like a brick wall, a putrid, acrid scent that made my stomach churn.
I gagged, covering my nose with my sleeve.
¡°Not again...¡±
I opened my eyes, only to see the horrifying extent of the mess. Thick, black sludge coated the floor around me, steaming faintly in the lantern light. It seeped into the cracks of the wood, staining the planks with its foul residue.
My jaw dropped. ¡°No, no, no! This is going to stain everything!¡±
Scrambling to my feet, I nearly slipped on the viscous sludge. My robes were ruined, sticky with the tar-like substance. I stumbled to grab a rag, only to realize the futility of cleaning this mess with mere cloth.
¡°Tianyi!¡± I called out, half-panicked. ¡°Get a bucket. Or ten! This is a disaster!¡±
Silence.
I paused, wiping the sweat¡ªand sludge¡ªoff my forehead with a sleeve that was already beyond saving. Reaching out with my senses, I tried to locate Tianyi through our bond. There was no panic, no urgency in her emotions. Just calm focus, tinged with curiosity.
But she wasn¡¯t nearby. In fact, she was far; much farther than I¡¯d expected her to be at this hour. What was she doing? My brows furrowed, but without any distress from her end, I decided against calling her back.
¡°Great,¡± I muttered, grabbing an old bucket from the corner. ¡°Looks like this disaster is mine to deal with.¡±
With a sigh, I set to work. The black sludge had already begun to dry in patches, its pungent stench thickening the air.
"Where''d I put that soap from Bai Hua... There it is!"
Every scrub with the rag felt like a battle against some malevolent entity that had decided my shop floor was its final resting place. The wood creaked under the strain of my efforts, and I muttered a silent apology to the floorboards.
Hours passed. The first hints of dawn crept through the windows, painting the walls with a pale, golden light. My muscles burned from the constant scrubbing, yet my energy remained strangely unflagging. I hadn¡¯t slept¡ªnot even a minute¡ªbut I didn¡¯t feel tired. If anything, I felt... alive.
Body refinement must¡¯ve done more than I thought, I mused, rinsing the rag in murky water. Yet even with my enhanced stamina powering my efforts, the smell lingered like a stubborn ghost, refusing to leave no matter how much soap I used.
A knock at the door jolted me from my thoughts. I stood, groaning slightly as I stretched my back, and trudged over to answer it. Jian Feng stood there, his green sect robes immaculate as always, a stark contrast to my sludge-covered, sweat-drenched self.
"Kai¡ª"
Jian Feng paused, his sharp eyes taking in my appearance and the faint acrid smell wafting out of the shop. His nose scrunched up ever so slightly before he quickly smoothed his expression, likely out of etiquette.
I''d never live this down. He''s going to tell this to the rest of the disciples and I''ll lose face. They''ll start addressing me as Stinky Kai, Master of the Olfactory Arts. Or the Pungent Prodigy. Or¡ª
¡°Kai,¡± he said, inclining his head slightly and breaking me out of my spiraling thoughts. ¡°There¡¯s something urgent you need to see.¡±
I leaned against the doorframe, trying not to groan too loudly. ¡°Can it wait? This stain''s going to be permanent if I leave it.¡±
He shook his head, his expression grave. ¡°No. This is not something to delay.¡±
The urgency in his tone made my heart skip a beat. I hesitated for a moment, then nodded, stepping back inside to grab a fresh cloak. As I moved, I glanced over my shoulder.
¡°Tianyi¡ª¡± I started, but stopped short, remembering she wasn¡¯t nearby. My bond with her still pulsed with calm focus, reassuring me that she wasn¡¯t in any immediate danger. But why was she so far from the shop this early?
Jian Feng¡¯s gaze followed mine, but he said nothing, his posture patient yet firm.
¡°I¡¯ll come. Just give me a minute to wash off and change.¡±
After getting dressed in one of my old robes and the Iron Boar cloak, the second-class disciple turned sharply on his heel, his steps brisk as I followed him down the frost-laden path. The cold air was refreshing after the stifling mess I¡¯d been dealing with, but the unease in my chest only grew as we approached the village outskirts.
¡°What¡¯s this about?¡± I asked, quickening my pace to match his.
Jian Feng¡¯s expression remained neutral, but the slight tension in his posture betrayed the gravity of the situation. ¡°You¡¯ll see soon enough,¡± he said, his voice steady but clipped. ¡°I suggest you prepare yourself.¡±
Not ominous at all.
My gut churned as we passed through the village, the frosty morning air biting at my face. The early morning light was weak, struggling to push back the dimness that clung to the village like a shroud. Frost coated the ground in a thin layer of silver, crunching faintly beneath our boots as Jian Feng led me toward the outskirts. The air was cold enough to bite, but it was the quiet¡ªthe heavy, uneasy silence¡ªthat made my skin crawl.
Most of the villagers were still asleep, their homes dark save for the occasional flicker of lantern light. Even the usual sounds of livestock stirring or carts creaking were absent, leaving the air thick with an eerie stillness.
I caught sight of Elder Ming standing at the center. His face was a mask of grim contemplation as he spoke to several Verdant Lotus Sect disciples. They were gathered in a tight circle and spoke in low, hurried tones, their breaths visible in the cold air. Lanterns swayed in their hands, casting shifting light over the ground.
But it wasn¡¯t him or the disciples that drew my attention.
It was the massive corpse sprawled out in the snow.
I stopped in my tracks, my breath catching in my throat.
My breath hitched. The beast was unlike anything I¡¯d ever seen. Its fur was jet-black, its stripes so faint they were barely visible. Even in death, it exuded an aura of power, its muscular frame taut and imposing. The sheer size of it reminiscent to the Wind Serpents that attacked Qingmu.
¡°What... what is this?¡± I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
Jian Feng stopped beside me, folding his arms. ¡°A black tiger,¡± he said. ¡°A spirit beast of considerable strength. They are rare, even in the deepest forests. This one...¡± He gestured to the tiger¡¯s lifeless form. ¡°This one is larger than any I¡¯ve ever heard of. Probably the leader of its pack.¡±
I stepped closer, the scent of blood and decay sharp in the cold air. My eyes were drawn to the gaping wound in its side¡ªthree deep claw marks that had torn through muscle and exposed the ribcage. Blood had frozen in jagged streaks around the injury, the snow beneath it stained a dark crimson.
¡°This killed it?¡± I murmured, crouching to examine the wounds.
Jian Feng nodded grimly. ¡°It was found just beyond the outskirts of the forest, already dead when our patrols came upon it. To think something could drive a beast like this from its depths and leave it like this...¡± He trailed off, his expression dark
Elder Ming¡¯s voice carried over. ¡°There has been no sighting of a beast of this size or caliber in this area since I became Village Head,¡± he said. ¡°Such a creature would not leave the forest lightly, nor would it fall so easily. Whatever did this forced it out of its domain and killed it without mercy.¡±
If something powerful enough to kill a black tiger had entered the outskirts of the forest, it meant danger was closer to the village than anyone was prepared for.
My eyes drifted back to the claw marks. They were brutal, precise¡ªfar too similar to the ones I¡¯d seen before. My hand unconsciously brushed the edge of my Iron Boar cloak, the memory of the Iron Claw Sect¡¯s discovery flashing through my mind. The markings matched exactly.
There was a predator in the shadows.
The connections clicked in my mind like pieces of a puzzle, and a chill ran down my spine. Before I could voice my thoughts, the crowd parted, and Tianyi appeared, her face pale and her wings fluttering in agitation. Her usual calm was replaced by a visible worry that made my chest tighten.
¡°Kai,¡± she said, her voice steady but strained. ¡°Windy didn¡¯t return last night.¡±
The blood drained from my face. ¡°What?¡±
She nodded, her expression grim. ¡°I went looking for him. I found a den of snakes. They told me he left... to challenge a ¡®shadow¡¯ in the forest.¡±
My heart skipped a beat. Windy. The reckless, stubborn serpent had gone into the forest alone, knowing full well the dangers that lurked within.
I didn¡¯t hesitate. Turning sharply, I started toward the forest. The icy air stung my face, but I barely noticed. My heart pounded, and my mind raced.
¡°Kai!¡± Jian Feng called after me. ¡°What are you doing?¡±
¡°To bring him back,¡± I said over my shoulder, my voice hard. ¡°Whatever¡¯s in that forest, it¡¯s not taking him from me.¡±
Tianyi fell into step beside me, her wings folding tightly against her back.
166. A Matter of Trust
Jian Feng stood in my path, his green robes pristine against the frost-covered ground. The soft glow of dawn lit his face, making his expression seem carved from stone. He didn¡¯t say anything at first, just held my gaze with that infuriating calm that only someone confident in their authority could manage.
¡°Move,¡± I said, my voice sharp, barely holding back the anger bubbling under my skin. I clenched my fists, nails biting into my palms. ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this.¡±
Jian Feng didn¡¯t flinch. ¡°And what do you intend to do?¡±
¡°Get Windy,¡± I snapped. ¡°What else?¡±
His lips thinned, and he folded his arms, his posture blocking the path as effectively as any gate. ¡°And then what? March into the forest alone, without a plan, against an unknown threat? Do you have any idea what¡¯s out there?¡±
¡°I don¡¯t care!¡± The words came out louder than I intended. ¡°Windy¡¯s out there, Jian Feng. Alone. Hurt, maybe worse. I¡¯m not going to sit here while¡ª¡±
¡°You will.¡± His voice cut through mine like a blade, low and firm, with no room for argument. ¡°Because your recklessness will cost more than just yourself. Do you think this is about your pet alone?¡±
I bristled at his wording. Windy wasn''t just a pet. He was my friend. A companion that I treasured. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±
¡°It means you have responsibilities that extend beyond your personal attachments,¡± he said evenly. ¡°Your role as an alchemist is invaluable, Kai. Not just to the village but to the Verdant Lotus Sect and the Whispering Wind Sect. You asked for our help to protect this place, to secure its future. Now you¡¯re willing to throw that away because you¡¯re too emotional to see the bigger picture?¡±
My chest heaved, and I stepped closer, glaring at him. ¡°So what? I¡¯m supposed to twiddle my thumbs while¡ª¡±
¡°You¡¯re supposed to trust us,¡± he interrupted, his tone like ice. ¡°We¡¯ve already sent three disciples to scout the forest. They¡¯ll find out what happened. Isn¡¯t that why we¡¯re here? To act as the shield for this village while you focus on what only you can do?¡±
I opened my mouth to argue, but the words caught in my throat. He was right, and I hated him for it. My shoulders sagged slightly, the fire in my chest giving way to a smoldering guilt. ¡°I... I just can¡¯t stand sitting here,¡± I muttered, my voice quieter now. ¡°Windy¡¯s family.¡±
His posture softened slightly, but his gaze remained unyielding. ¡°And the village is counting on you, Kai. Don¡¯t let your emotions blind you to your responsibilities.¡±
I exhaled heavily, my anger fading into a deep, gnawing frustration. ¡°Fine,¡± I said through gritted teeth. ¡°But what am I supposed to do in the meantime? It''s not like the ones scouting the forest know Windy''s gone. What are you going to do about that?¡±
He didn¡¯t respond immediately, his eyes briefly scanning my face before he stepped aside. ¡°Trust. And wait.¡±
Before I could respond, Tianyi¡¯s voice cut through the air. ¡°Then I¡¯ll go.¡±
Both Jian Feng and I turned toward her. She stood a few paces away, her wings tucked neatly behind her, her expression calm.
¡°No,¡± I said immediately. ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous.¡±
Tianyi tilted her head, her gaze steady. ¡°And yet, you were willing to go.¡±
¡°That¡¯s different!¡±
¡°Why?¡±
¡°Because¡ª¡± I faltered, unable to find the right words. ¡°Because you don¡¯t have to. I¡¯ll find another way.¡±
She shook her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips. ¡°Kai, I am not bound like you are. I act as I choose, and I choose to find Windy.¡±
Jian Feng frowned but didn¡¯t speak, clearly uncertain how to respond to her autonomy. Tianyi glanced at him, her tone blunt. ¡°You have no authority over me, so there is no reason to object.¡±
He hesitated, then inclined his head stiffly. ¡°Do as you wish.¡±
Her gaze returned to me, softening slightly. ¡°Do not worry, Kai. I am stronger than they are. There is no need for concern.¡±
I opened my mouth to argue, to stop her, but the words wouldn¡¯t come. She turned without another word, her wings unfurling slightly as she moved toward the forest.
¡°Tianyi!¡± I called after her, my voice tinged with desperation.
She paused, looking over her shoulder.
¡°Trust, Kai. Isn¡¯t that what you just agreed to?¡±
And with that, she disappeared into the shadowy expanse of the trees, leaving me standing there, hollow and unsure.
The group began to disperse, the Verdant Lotus Sect disciples murmuring amongst themselves as they discussed what to do with the tiger¡¯s massive carcass. Jian Feng¡¯s voice rose briefly, directing a few of them to set up a perimeter while others prepared to move the body. The tension in the air lingered, but the urgency of their tasks began to take precedence over the uneasy silence.
Elder Ming stood beside me, his expression inscrutable as he watched the scene unfold. He turned to me, his feet crunching against the frost-covered ground as he gestured for me to follow.
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¡°Come, Kai,¡± he said simply. His tone was calm, measured, but there was a weight to it that made it hard to refuse.
I nodded, forcing my legs to move as I followed him back toward the village. The path was quiet, save for the soft crunch of snow beneath our boots. I kept glancing over my shoulder, as if Tianyi might suddenly reappear or the forest itself would yield some answer to the questions clawing at my mind. But the trees stood silent, indifferent to my unease.
Elder Ming didn¡¯t speak until we reached the shop. He paused at the threshold, his sharp eyes scanning the interior. ¡°It¡¯s been some time since I last stepped inside your shop,¡± he remarked, his voice tinged with a faint nostalgia.
I managed a thin smile, stepping inside and gesturing for him to follow. ¡°Not much has changed,¡± I said, though my voice sounded distant even to my own ears. ¡°It¡¯s still... a work in progress.¡±
Elder Ming hummed in response, his gaze lingering on the shelves of herbs and vials. I busied myself with fetching tea, my hands moving on autopilot as I set the kettle on the stove. The motions felt stiff, disconnected, as if I were watching someone else go through the motions.
When the tea was ready, I poured a cup and handed it to him. Elder Ming accepted it with a nod, his expression thoughtful as he sipped the steaming brew. I returned to the counter, my hands instinctively reaching for the inventory ledger. If I could just focus on something¡ªanything¡ªit might stop my mind from spinning.
But my hands trembled as I flipped through the pages, the ink blurring before my eyes. I tried to focus on the rows of ingredients, to calculate how many batches of pills I could produce with the current stock. But the numbers swam in my mind, and my thoughts kept drifting back to Windy, to Tianyi, to the shadow in the forest.
A soft clink brought my attention back to the present. Elder Ming had set his cup down on the counter, his gaze fixed on me. ¡°Your hands are shaking,¡± he said quietly.
I looked down, startled to find that he was right. My fingers twitched against the edge of the ledger, and I clenched them into fists, trying to steady myself. ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± I muttered. ¡°Just... tired.¡±
He didn¡¯t respond immediately, his piercing eyes studying me in that way that made me feel like he could see right through every excuse I could muster. Finally, he straightened and stood up.
¡°Come with me,¡± he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.
¡°Where?¡± I asked, though I was already moving to follow him.
¡°To the training grounds,¡± he replied. ¡°The morning drills are starting soon.¡±
I hesitated, the thought of facing Wang Jun and Lan-Yin in my current state making my chest tighten. But the alternative¡ªstaying here, trapped in my own head¡ªfelt even worse. I nodded, grabbing my cloak from the wall. ¡°Alright.¡±
Elder Ming didn¡¯t say anything more as we stepped back out into the crisp morning air. The sun had risen higher now, casting long shadows across the village as we made our way toward the training grounds. My mind buzzed with restless energy, but the rhythmic crunch of Elder Ming¡¯s steps beside me kept me grounded, pulling me forward one step at a time.
The familiar sight of his courtyard brought a strange sense of relief.
Wang Jun was already in the center of the training grounds, stretching. His breath hung in the cold morning air, faint wisps dissolving into the frost-laden sky. When he spotted us, he raised a hand in greeting, though his usual enthusiasm seemed dampened.
¡°Morning, Elder Ming. Kai,¡± he said, his voice quieter than normal. ¡°Lan-Yin¡¯s resting today. She¡¯s been feeling a bit nauseous.¡±
I nodded vaguely, the gesture more reflex than acknowledgment. My thoughts were already elsewhere, a whirlwind of concern and frustration that left little room for anything else. Elder Ming gave his usual curt nod, his gaze sweeping over Wang Jun before settling on me.
¡°Warm up,¡± he instructed. ¡°We¡¯ll move to sparring once you¡¯re ready.¡±
Without a word, I moved toward the practice area, my body falling into the rhythm of drills almost automatically. The familiar steps of footwork and strikes came to me easily, my muscles working through the motions; like they had been etched into my bones.
But my mind... my mind was somewhere else.
Even as my feet pivoted and my fists struck the air, I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Windy. About Tianyi. About trust.
"Get ready for sparring," Elder Ming said.
Jian Feng¡¯s words echoed in my head, his sharp reminder of my obligations clashing with the gnawing need to act. He wasn¡¯t wrong. The stakes were too high to throw everything away in a reckless bid to save one life, no matter how much it mattered to me. But it burned knowing that I was seen as an asset first, a partner second.
''Is this what trust feels like?'' I thought bitterly. ''Counting on others to do what I can¡¯t because they believe I have to be preserved for something bigger?''
Wang Jun lunged, his fist aiming for my jaw. My head tilted to the side just in time, his knuckles grazing past. I pivoted, twisting into a counterstrike. My fist connected with his ribs¡ªnot hard enough to injure, but enough to knock the air from his lungs.
He stumbled, coughing. ¡°Kai, what the hell?¡± he gasped, backing away to catch his breath. ¡°You¡¯re moving like¡ªare you even paying attention?¡±
I blinked, the haze in my mind momentarily lifting as his words registered. Paying attention?
My arms hung loosely at my sides, still poised for another strike, but my hands trembled.
¡°Kai!¡± Wang Jun snapped, his voice sharper now. ¡°What¡¯s going on with you?¡±
I blinked again, my eyes focusing on him for what felt like the first time. He was staring at me, his expression a mix of irritation and concern. Behind him, Elder Ming¡¯s sharp gaze bore into me, his arms folded across his chest.
¡°I...¡± I started, but the words caught in my throat. What was going on? I glanced down at my hands, the faint tremor betraying the storm inside me. My fists clenched instinctively, the tension grounding me just enough to mutter, ¡°Sorry.¡±
Wang Jun straightened, his brow furrowed. ¡°Sorry? Kai, you¡¯re sparring like you¡¯re possessed. You¡¯re faster. Stronger. What¡¯s going on?¡±
Faster. Stronger. The words struck something in my mind, pulling up the events of the previous night.
¡°I...¡± I exhaled slowly, lowering my hands. ¡°I broke through. Last night. My body to the second stage of Qi Initiation, and my qi to Essence Awakening stage. Made a new pill with the Golden Bamboo.¡±
Wang Jun¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°What? That¡¯s¡ªwait, what? That¡¯s insane!¡± He grinned, the admiration returning to his face. ¡°Congrats, Kai! No wonder you¡¯re moving like this.¡±
But his enthusiasm didn¡¯t stir anything in me. My chest still felt heavy, my thoughts still spiraled. I glanced at Elder Ming, who stepped closer, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied me.
¡°Your movements are sharper,¡± he said, his tone measured. ¡°More precise. This refinement has honed you well. But...¡± His gaze softened, just a fraction. ¡°Your mind is elsewhere.¡±
Wang Jun tilted his head, clearly still trying to piece together my erratic behavior. ¡°What¡¯s going on? You just had a breakthrough. You should be¡ª¡± He stopped, noticing the tension in my expression. His tone softened. ¡°Kai, seriously, what¡¯s eating at you?¡±
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. The weight of the situation pressed down on me like a millstone, and I could feel Elder Ming¡¯s expectant gaze lingering. I wasn¡¯t sure I wanted to drag Wang Jun into this, but keeping him in the dark felt unfair.
¡°It¡¯s... complicated,¡± I said at first, trying to organize my thoughts. ¡°Something happened at the outskirts this morning. A... spirit beast. A black tiger¡ªdead.¡±
Wang Jun¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Tigers? They don''t come up this close to the village.¡±
¡°That¡¯s the question,¡± I muttered. ¡°It wasn¡¯t just dead. Something killed it, something strong enough to drive it out of its territory and leave it in pieces. And it''s just like what happened to the Iron Boar in Qingmu.¡±
Wang Jun¡¯s expression darkened, the weight of my words sinking in.
"Windy''s gone. Left to challenge something in the forest, something the snakes called ¡®the shadow.¡¯ Jian Feng wouldn''t let me go look. Says I''m too valuable to send in there. And now Tianyi¡¯s out there looking for him.¡± My fists clenched again as I continued to babble on. ¡°She wouldn¡¯t listen. She just¡ª¡±
¡°Went,¡± Wang Jun finished, his tone sympathetic. "You''ve got your hands full. Sorry to hear about that."
I shook my head, the frustration bubbling back up. ¡°And here I am, stuck sparring while she¡¯s out there. It feels... wrong.¡±
¡°Of course it does,¡± He said, his voice firm. ¡°You¡¯re worried about them, Kai. Who wouldn¡¯t be? You have every right to be frustrated. If Lan-Yin were out there, I would''ve been out before the first word came out your mouth. Nobody would''ve been able to stop me.¡±
¡°Enough,¡± Elder Ming interjected, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. His gaze shifted between us, calm but unyielding. ¡°Wang Jun, your loyalty to Kai is admirable, but don¡¯t fan his emotions unnecessarily. He doesn¡¯t need validation for his anger¡ªhe needs perspective.¡±
Wang Jun frowned but nodded reluctantly. Elder Ming¡¯s attention shifted back to me. ¡°The Verdant Lotus Sect has already dispatched scouts. This is their domain, and they¡¯re equipped to handle the forest. Your frustration is understandable, but it changes nothing about what needs to be done.¡±
¡°That doesn¡¯t make it easier,¡± I said, my voice quieter now. ¡°It doesn¡¯t make it easier to trust them when Tianyi is out there alone. Who knows where Windy is?¡±
Wang Jun¡¯s lips twitched into a small smile, and he clapped a hand on my shoulder. ¡°Hey, Kai. Don¡¯t forget why Tianyi stopped coming to these morning practices.¡±
I glanced at him, confused. ¡°What does that have to do with anything?¡±
¡°She stopped because she kept beating us so easily,¡± Wang Jun said, grinning. ¡°Think about it. If she could trounce me, Lan-Yin, and even you without breaking a sweat, then whatever¡¯s out there should be more worried about her than the other way around.¡±
I blinked, his words slowly sinking in. A faint, reluctant smile tugged at my lips. ¡°She always did have a knack for showing us up.¡±
¡°Exactly,¡± Wang Jun said. ¡°And look, if Tianyi and the scouts don¡¯t return by tonight, I¡¯ll go with you. We¡¯ll find them together.¡±
I stared at him, the offer hitting harder than I expected. For a moment, the knot in my chest loosened just enough for me to breathe. ¡°Thanks, Wang Jun,¡± I said quietly. ¡°That... means a lot.¡±
He shrugged, his grin softening. ¡°That¡¯s what friends are for, right?¡±
Elder Ming didn¡¯t say anything, but his expression had shifted ever so slightly, the faintest hint of approval in his sharp eyes.
As the sparring session came to an end, I sat on the edge of the courtyard, gazing toward the direction of the forest. The faint rustle of the trees carried on the wind, distant yet persistent. I closed my eyes, my mind quieting for the first time all morning.
¡°Just be safe,¡± I whispered, the words carried away by the breeze. ¡°Both of you.¡±
167. The Forest Holds Its Breath
Windy slithered low against the ground, his pale scales brushing over the brittle, frost-touched grass. His tongue flicked out, catching the faint coppery tang of blood on the cold wind.
The trail had been easy to follow at first, with crushed undergrowth and faint, unnatural disturbances in the air that only his sharp senses could detect. But as the hours wore on, the path grew colder, the figure moving with an eerie precision that left barely a trace behind. Yet, the serpent was determined. His coiled patience kept him moving, silent and watchful.
The hooded figure moved further than Windy had ever dared. Away from Kai. Away from Tianyi. It was only by pure chance he caught sight of the elusive shadow that terrified the den of snakes. After days of traversing the forest, going deeper with every passing day, he found it.
His instincts screamed of danger, but the spirit beast wouldn''t give up such an opportunity.
The figure was no ordinary prey, but neither was Windy an ordinary snake.
The battle had unfolded just ahead of him, in a clearing where frost clung stubbornly to the ground. Perched high in a tree, the serpent wrapped himself around a branch, his pale scales blending with the icy bark as he watched. The massive tiger prowled into view first, its jet-black fur bristling with tension, its movements graceful yet predatory. It seemed angry, emitting a low growl that made his scales stand on end. It was a formidable foe; one he would be hard-pressed to defeat.
And the shadow moved.
The ragged cloth draped over its frame shifted unnaturally with each step, and its feet were gnarled and cracked.
The tiger lunged without hesitation, its roar splitting the silence. It was swift, deadly, its claws glinting in the dark as it swiped at the figure. But the hooded man did not dodge. The claws sunk into the man''s arm, but he pushed forward without any reaction to the pain, his bare hand lashing out with terrifying speed.
Ignoring the attack in favor of delivering a counter-blow.
Windy¡¯s eyes narrowed.
Fingers, pale and claw-like, raked across the tiger¡¯s side. The force of the blow was staggering; three deep gashes appeared in the beast¡¯s flesh, muscle tearing apart as if it were paper. Blood sprayed in an arc, splattering the frost-kissed ground in dark streaks.
The tiger howled in pain, staggering back, its massive frame trembling from the sheer ferocity of the strike. The man¡¯s movements were precise, deliberate, and far too fluid, as if the edges of his body blurred with each step. He stood motionless for a moment, his hand dripping with blood.
The serpent''s tongue flicked again, catching the sharp metallic tang in the air. He observed the tiger¡¯s swift retreat, the beast limping heavily into the undergrowth. It was still alive, but just barely. Its steps were slow, dragging, leaving a trail of blood in its wake.
Windy had waited, watched. He had expected the hooded figure to pursue the wounded tiger. That would have been the logical move. Injure the prey, track it, finish it. That was how Windy himself hunted tougher creatures; paralyze them with venom, then follow until their strength left them entirely.
But this was different. The hooded figure didn¡¯t move immediately. Instead, it lingered in the clearing, lowering itself onto its knees. Thin, ragged cloth clung to its frame, barely shielding it from the cold.
''Immortals feel the cold, don¡¯t they?'' Windy thought, tilting his head. He could remember Kai layering on his maroon robes during the chillier nights. But this figure¡ it did not shiver. It knelt like a statue in the clearing, its movements unnervingly still. For a second, he thought it was just too injured to give chase.
Then it spoke.
The words were low, guttural, and wrong. Windy didn¡¯t understand them, but he didn¡¯t need to. The forest seemed to hold its breath, and the air grew heavier, laden with something vile and tainted. The sound was like a blade dragging across bone, reverberating with a malevolence that made Windy¡¯s instincts flare with alarm.
The way it prostrated itself before the tiger¡¯s bloodied trail spoke of something darker, more twisted. Windy could feel the impure essence seeping into the ground around it, poisoning the frost-kissed earth.
His instincts screamed at him to leave¡ªto abandon this hunt and return to the safety of Kai and Tianyi¡¯s presence. But he couldn¡¯t. The hooded figure¡¯s actions were a threat to them, to everything.
The figure rose slowly. Windy slithered after it, careful to stay far enough that its shadowy form wouldn¡¯t sense him. It repeated the process for a couple hours, a staggered but deliberate pace, leaving behind bloodstained footprints that glistened darkly in the weak moonlight.
''It bleeds. Just like them.''
The realization settled like a cold, steadying weight in Windy¡¯s mind. The shadow, for all its unnatural power, was not invincible. The tiger¡¯s strike had landed, and the droplets of blood that trailed in its wake were proof.
He couldn¡¯t fight it head-on. The figure was far stronger than he was, even wounded. But strength alone didn¡¯t guarantee victory. A snake never fought like a brute. It fought with precision, cunning, and patience.
This was his chance.
The hooded figure moved to the far side of the clearing, its steps silent despite the frost-covered ground. It paused, crouching again, and resumed its eerie ritual. The guttural, rasping words spilled forth once more, each syllable carrying an unsettling resonance. The figure¡¯s bloodied hand traced patterns in the frost, leaving streaks of crimson that shimmered faintly in the dim light.
From his vantage point in the treetops, his coils tightened. His tongue flicked, tasting the air for any hint of a shift in the figure¡¯s focus. Nothing. The hooded figure seemed entirely consumed by its dark purpose, oblivious to the serpent watching from above.
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Windy¡¯s intuition screamed at him to wait, to bide his time. The figure was powerful, far beyond anything he had encountered before. But the blood-streaked footprints trailing from its fight with the tiger reminded him of its vulnerability.
The shadow bleeds. It could be hurt.
And hurt things could be killed.
The figure¡¯s voice rose, the guttural tones growing more fervent. The tainted essence radiating from it was almost suffocating now, curling through the air like an invisible toxin. His instincts urged him once again to retreat, to slither back into the safety of the trees and return home. But if he fled now, the shadow would continue.
It would find Kai. It would find Tianyi.
''I wanted to kill this monster for my pride, but now I fight so they¡¯ll never face it.''
With a flick of his tail, Windy launched himself from the branch. His lithe body sliced through the cold air, silent and swift, his target clear¡ªthe figure¡¯s unguarded back. His fangs glinted in the faint light, venom ready to inject at the first bite.
For a heartbeat, it seemed as though he would land his mark. The hooded figure remained crouched, its focus entirely on its ritual.
Then, impossibly fast, it turned.
Windy¡¯s momentum carried him forward, but the figure¡¯s hand lashed out with unnatural speed. Fingers like iron clamped around his neck, halting his strike mid-air. The force of the grip made his scales crackle under the pressure. Windy writhed, his tail lashing instinctively, but the hold was unyielding.
The hooded figure stood, lifting the serpent effortlessly. Its hood tilted slightly, as though examining him.
Loose strands of unkempt, greasy hair fell across a lined forehead, their ashen color blending with the ragged shadows of the hood.
The man¡¯s skin was weathered and uneven, as though it had been both scorched by the sun and bitten by frost. His lips, cracked and pale, peeled back to reveal yellowed teeth, jagged and uneven, as if they had been filed down by years of grinding. His breath carried the stench of decay.
But it was his eyes that froze the serpent in place, even as he struggled. They were not the eyes of an immortal, sharp and calculating, but the eyes of a wild beast.
¡°So,¡± it muttered, its voice low and dripping with disdain, ¡°you¡¯ve been following me.¡±
Windy¡¯s tail coiled, striking out, but the figure barely flinched. Its grip tightened, and the serpent¡¯s vision blurred as the pressure threatened to crush his windpipe.
¡°I sensed you hours ago,¡± the figure growled, its tone shifting to a sharp, simmering rage. ¡°And yet, you chose now to reveal yourself. Interrupting me.¡±
He knew the grip would kill him if he didn¡¯t act now. Summoning every ounce of his remaining strength, he funneled his qi into his tail. The air around him shimmered faintly as the energy coalesced, sharpening his strike.
With a fierce lash, his tail snapped forward, aiming directly for the figure¡¯s face. The blow connected with a sickening crack, catching the figure in its eye.
The figure recoiled with a hiss, its grip loosening just enough for Windy to twist free. He dropped to the ground, his body coiling defensively as he retreated several paces. His tongue flicked rapidly, assessing his opponent.
The figure staggered, one hand clutching its face.
¡°You insolent wretch!¡± the figure hissed, its voice trembling. Its movements were jerky now, like a marionette driven by rage. ¡°How dare you interrupt! How dare you defile this sacred moment?¡±
It straightened, holding its wounded side as it staggered to the opposite edge of the clearing. Despite the clear signs of pain, its grip on its ritual was unwavering.
The figure began chanting, its voice a guttural rasp, the words laced with a twisted reverence. ¡°Great one, hear me! Forgive your unworthy servant! But I will make it right, oh divine one! This infidel¡¯s blood will quench your thirst. This unclean, profane creature will serve!¡±
Windy remained still, his body low to the ground. His mind raced. The figure¡¯s reaction had been too quick, too deliberate. It hadn¡¯t been caught off guard at all.
This wasn¡¯t a failed ambush.
It was a trap.
The realization settled in Windy¡¯s mind like a shard of ice. He had walked into the figure¡¯s game, and now he was its prey.
Tianyi moved silently through the dense forest, her steps light and deliberate as her sharp eyes scanned the undergrowth. The trail she followed was faint. Windy had always been a master of stealth, and it was clear to her that this time, he didn¡¯t want to be found.
Her lips pressed into a thin line. Windy¡¯s subtlety was both a gift and a curse. She admired it, respected it, but now it felt like an impenetrable veil keeping her from him. Even so, she pressed on, her senses sharp, her antennae-like strands twitching faintly to detect the smallest vibrations in the air.
The forest was unnervingly still.
It was wrong.
This silence reminded her of... something.
Memories, faint and fragmented, surfaced unbidden.
Before Kai. Before Windy.
A time when she was nothing more than a fragile creature, flitting through endless trees under an endless sky. The forests then had always been alive with sound¡ªbirds chittering, beasts moving, the hum of the wind as it carried the scents of the earth.
But not now.
She unfolded her wings, the glowing blue edges spreading wide. With a sharp leap, she propelled herself into the canopy, gliding effortlessly between branches. The world below blurred as she moved with purpose, the wind rushing against her skin.
The two strands falling down her face twitched again, sensing the subtlest of disturbances. There; a faint rustle, too deliberate to be wind. She veered toward it, her wings angling to catch the light breeze.
She landed softly on a sturdy branch, crouching as her sharp gaze scanned the shadows below. Her antennae flicked, honing in on the faint movement ahead. It was quick, almost imperceptible, but it was there.
¡°Windy...¡± she murmured under her breath, her voice low and calm. She doubted he would respond. He wouldn¡¯t unless he wanted to.
Still, she moved closer, her wings pulling her effortlessly from branch to branch.
''Why are you hiding?''
The question lingered in her mind, but she didn¡¯t stop. Her movements grew faster, her focus sharper, as she pursued the fleeting traces. The trail wasn¡¯t growing colder; it was changing. More erratic.
And the forest remained silent.
Her antennae twitched violently, catching something.
An aura, faint but impure. Her wings shifted instinctively, angling her to glide low, just above the forest floor, as she followed the faint disturbance.
Ahead, she caught the barest flicker of motion. It wasn¡¯t Windy.
The metallic tang of blood hung thick in the air now, growing stronger with each step. She slowed further, her wings folding partially to minimize the faint hum they emitted. Her sharp eyes caught the glow of a lantern, flickering weakly against the shadows of the forest. She moved closer, crouching low to avoid detection.
Her mouth pressed into a thin line as the scene came into view.
Three figures lay scattered across the forest floor, motionless and broken. The robes of the Verdant Lotus Sect hung from their forms, torn and bloodied. One disciple was crumpled against a tree, his head bent at an unnatural angle. Another lay face-down in a pool of crimson, a trail of smeared blood leading to him as if he had tried to crawl away. The third was slumped against the remains of a shattered lantern, the faint light casting an eerie glow over his lifeless face.
Tianyi¡¯s stomach twisted as recognition dawned. These were the disciples. The ones sent ahead to scout.
Her eyes narrowed, scanning the clearing for the source of the slaughter. Her antennae quivered again, drawing her attention to the center of the carnage.
There, kneeling amidst the carnage, was a person.
No, not a person. Not entirely.
Their form was similar to the one described by the den of snakes. A shadow. They were covered in a robe, its edges frayed and tattered.
The figure knelt, its hood obscuring its face, though long, loose strands of hair clung to its angular features. Its body was unnaturally still, save for its hands, which moved with eerie precision. It dragged one of the lifeless disciples closer, arranging the body with care, as though laying it to rest. But the intention was far from reverent.
She watched the figure shift to another body, rolling it to its back and dragging it to form a crude triangle with the others. Her sharp eyes caught something glinting in the figure¡¯s hand.
A seed, black as pitch, pulsating faintly like a diseased heart.
The figure leaned forward, burying the seed into the center of the triangle. Its clawed hands dug into the blood-soaked earth with fervor, smearing its palms with a mix of dirt and gore. It began to chant again, the guttural, rasping words sending ripples of unease through the clearing.
Tianyi didn¡¯t need to understand the words to feel their intent. The air thickened, curling with malevolent qi as the seed absorbed the blood pooling beneath it. The forest seemed to recoil, its silence growing more oppressive.
A moment passed. Then another.
The ground where the seed was buried began to pulse faintly, like the rhythm of a beating heart. The blood around the triangle of corpses glowed faintly, drawn toward the seed in thin, crimson tendrils.
The figure raised its bloodied hands high, its chant reaching a fever pitch. ¡°May your bloom feed on the unworthy! May your roots drink deep of their essence! Let this offering strengthen your dominion!¡±
Tianyi¡¯s sharp gaze fixed on the ground as the soil erupted.
A dark vine, thorned and grotesque, burst from the earth, writhing as though alive. The vine twisted upward, its movement jerky and unnatural, until it unfurled a flower at its peak.
Her antennae pulsed violently, detecting the vile essence radiating from the flower. It was not natural. It was wrong.
The figure knelt again, its clawed hands gripping the base of the bloom as if in worship.
Tianyi¡¯s stomach churned. She had seen enough. This was not her goal. Her goal was to find Windy.
But before she could retreat, the figure froze mid-chant. Slowly, almost deliberately, it turned its head toward her. The hood shifted just enough to reveal a pale, feminine face streaked with dried blood. Their eyes, wild and sunken, locked onto hers with a predatory gleam.
A sickly smile stretched across her cracked lips, and her voice shifted to a low rasp as she rose to her feet.
¡°Ah, another offering,¡± She murmured, gaze gleaming with manic fervor. ¡°The Heavenly Demon provides bountifully indeed.¡±
168. A Butterfly Against the Shadow
The hooded woman''s claws ripped through the air with feral precision, each swipe carrying enough force to shatter the trunks of nearby trees. Snow exploded in every direction as her strikes gouged deep into the ground, but none found their mark. Tianyi flitted just out of reach, her movements too quick, too light, too unpredictable.
To anyone watching, the fight might have seemed like a mismatched dance; the raw power and relentless fury of the beast-like woman clashing against the unyielding grace of a winged dancer.
Tianyi¡¯s wings shimmered faintly in the dim light, catching the mornign light as she darted between the branches. Her movements weren¡¯t simply fast; they were alien, erratic, her sharp turns and sudden dives defying the rhythm of a conventional fight. The shadow snarled in frustration, claws carving empty arcs through the frost-chilled air.
''She¡¯s powerful,'' Tianyi thought, her antennae twitching faintly as they detected the faint pulses of malevolent qi radiating outward like ripples in a poisoned lake. ''Too powerful.''
The shadow''s qi made her exoskeleton prickle, her body instinctively recoiling from the unnatural energy. But no matter how strong the enemy was, she couldn¡¯t strike what she couldn¡¯t touch.
The woman lunged again, clawed hand crashing into the trunk of a tree as Tianyi twisted midair, her wings propelling her upward in a graceful arc. She leapt higher, using a branch as a springboard, and landed lightly on the outstretched arm before she could react. Her delicate frame balanced perfectly atop the exposed limb, and for a heartbeat, their gazes locked.
One calm, almost serene, another wild and furious.
THWACK!
Then she kicked the shadow squarely in the face.
The blow sent her opponent''s head snapping back with a sickening crack, and Tianyi flipped off her arm, landing softly in the snow a few paces away. The hooded woman staggered, but recovered easily despite the force of the blow,
¡°You think you¡¯re clever?¡± Her voice was a venomous rasp, muffled slightly as she wiped blood from her nose. ¡°Let¡¯s see how you handle this.¡±
With a swift, jerking motion, she reached into the triangle of Verdant Lotus Sect disciples¡¯ bodies, clawed hand plunging into the chest of one of the corpses. Tianyi¡¯s antennae twitched violently at the act, but she didn¡¯t falter, her sharp eyes narrowing as she tracked her opponent''s every move.
The woman turned back to her, clutching a satchel now torn open from the speed of his movement. As he lunged forward, the satchel ripped fully, and glass bottles tumbled out, shattering against Tianyi¡¯s head, wings and the snow beneath her.
A sharp, acrid scent filled the air as different liquids splashed across her frame, soaking into her skin and into the gaps between her joints.
She licked her lips experimentally, tasting the faint bitterness of alcohol. Confusion flickered across her face.
''What is this supposed to¡ª''
A lantern flew toward her, its weak flame flickering precariously. Tianyi moved to dodge it instinctively, her wings flaring, but the flame ignited the alcohol as soon as it hit the ground near her.
And all she knew was heat.
Pain seared through her as the flames licked at her wings and body, the acrid smell of burning alcohol mingling with the icy air.
Tianyi¡¯s instincts screamed, and she folded her wings tightly against her back, dropping into the snow. She rolled desperately, the freezing surface biting into her skin but extinguishing the flames. Smoke and steam rose around her as she pushed herself upright, her breath coming in short gasps.
But the maneuver left her vulnerable.
The hooded woman was on her before she could fully regain her footing. Her clawed hand descended, and Tianyi barely managed to raise her arm in defense. The impact sent a jolt of pain through her body as the malevolent qi surged into her, biting and writhing like a living thing.
Fissures spread across her arm, delicate and jagged like fractures in glass. She staggered back, clutching the injured limb as a sharp, pulsing pain radiated outward from the wound.
The woman straightened, her grin jagged and triumphant as she advanced on her winged adversary. ¡°You¡¯re not so untouchable now, are you?¡± she sneered, claws flexing in anticipation.
Her antennae drooped, exhaustion and pain settling over her. Her wings trembled faintly, still slick with alcohol that hadn¡¯t fully evaporated, droplets sliding down her face and neck.
SHLURP!
Tianyi''s tongue moved instinctually to collect the alcohol dripping down her skin. Her eyes burned faintly, not just from the residual flames but from the fumes clinging to her. She couldn¡¯t even blink, her focus locked on the hooded woman as she prowled closer.
Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
Her body felt strange; warm, unsteady, and sluggish. A tingling heat spread through her veins, and her mind buzzed faintly, as if she were on the verge of something she couldn¡¯t quite grasp. She licked her lips again.
''What is this feeling?''
The shadow lunged, her claws slicing toward her with terrifying precision. Tianyi moved on instinct, wings flaring as she dove to the side. But her timing was off. Too slow, too deliberate. The woman¡¯s claws grazed her shoulder, leaving faint lines that burned with residual qi.
She laughed, a high-pitched, grating noise.
Her antennae twitched, but instead of despair, a strange clarity settled over her. The warmth spreading through her body wasn¡¯t a weakness; it was something else she could use. She drew in a shaky breath, her wings folding tightly against her back as she crouched low.
The hooded woman smirked, mistaking her stillness for submission. She rushed forward again, claws gleaming with malevolent energy.
But just as she closed in, Tianyi vanished.
A blur of motion to her right, then left.
Tianyi reappeared behind her, foot slamming into the back of the shadow''s knee with enough force to drop her momentarily. She roared, spinning to swipe at her, but Tianyi was already gone, darting upward into the branches.
Her movements had changed. They weren¡¯t the sharp, rapid bursts of speed she had used before. Now they were unpredictable, a mix of slow, deliberate shifts and sudden, explosive strikes. The rhythm disoriented the hooded woman, her attacks cutting through empty air as Tianyi evaded by mere hairsbreadths.
''This is my chance.''
She landed softly in the snow, her sharp eyes tracking his every move. Her wings hummed faintly as she darted forward, striking again and again. Her movements were like a dance, weaving through attacks, landing precise blows that chipped away at her opponent''s strength.
The hooded woman snarled, blood dripping from her mouth as she staggered back. Her movements grew slower, her strikes less precise.
Infusing her wings with more qi than before, she dipped low to the ground and pushed.
Sharpened to it''s utmost, her wings sunk deep into the hooded figure''s torso.
She coughed violently, blood splattering the snow.
For a moment, Tianyi thought it was over. The malevolent qi that had surrounded her moments ago was fading, dissipating into the cold air like smoke carried away by the wind.
Tianyi''s breaths came sharp and shallow, each one a reminder of how close she had come to being overwhelmed.
But then the air around her opponent shifted.
It wasn¡¯t the gradual quiet of death settling in. No, this was something else¡ªsomething wrong. The snow beneath the woman¡¯s broken form darkened as her claws dug deep, tearing into the earth. Her body convulsed violently, back arching as though she were a marionette pulled by invisible strings. A rasping, guttural sound clawed its way out of her throat, rising into an unnatural chant that made the air itself feel heavier.
¡°Heavenly Demon, grant me strength! Your servant offers all!¡±
She took a cautious step back, her sharp eyes narrowing as she assessed the change.
Despite the gaping wound in her chest, the hooded woman began to rise.
The movement was jerky, unnatural; limbs spasming as though resisting the sheer will that forced them to move. Blood spilled freely from injuries, steaming as it hit the cold ground, yet she stood upright, her frame trembling with an unnatural vigor.
She wasn¡¯t healing. The wound across her torso remained, a deep, gaping slash that should have rendered her immobile, if not dead.
Her skin was ashen, and her movements unsteady, yet her eyes burned with a manic light.
It wasn¡¯t life. It was something a grotesque semblance of it, fueled by desperation and blind devotion.
Tianyi had seen something like this before, deep in the wilds. The death throes of a cornered animal, its body surging with impossible strength as it fought against the inevitable. A rabbit that bit clean through a predator¡¯s paw, a bird that kept flying even after its wings were torn. This was no different. An echo of that primal instinct, amplified a hundredfold by feverish faith.
Claws lashed out, faster than before, slicing through the air with a ferocity that made her wings hum as she barely evaded the strike. Tianyi flipped backward, her feet barely brushing the snow as she retreated to gain space. But the hooded woman was relentless.
¡°Your mortal strength means nothing!¡± she roared, voice fraying at the edges, cracking like brittle ice. ¡°The Heavenly Demon guides me! I am more than flesh! I am purpose!¡±
Her strikes came in a whirlwind, each one faster, stronger, more precise. The snow churned beneath her feet as she surged forward, her movements no longer hindered by pain or injury. Tianyi dodged on instinct, her body weaving and twisting in a desperate attempt to stay ahead. The warmth that overtook her moments ago had largely faded away.
But the sheer speed of the attacks pushed her to her limits. Her claws grazed her wing, the malevolent qi biting into the delicate structure like acid. Pain flared through her, sharp and searing, but she forced herself to stay focused.
She had to end this.
Tianyi¡¯s antennae twitched faintly, sensing a subtle shift in the rhythm of battle. The shadow''s movements, while faster and stronger, had grown erratic¡ªwild swings that left small openings in her defense. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was enough.
Taking a deep breath, she narrowed her focus, funneling every ounce of her remaining energy into her wings. They glowed faintly in the moonlight, the edges sharpening into blades of shimmering blue. She darted forward, her movements slower, more deliberate, but precise.
The hooded woman lunged, claws arcing toward her throat. Tianyi twisted midair, her wings slicing upward with a graceful, lethal sweep.
Her strike landed.
The shimmering edge of her wings cleaved fully through the shadow''s torso. The blow sent a shockwave through the clearing, snow exploding outward as the body jerked violently. For a moment, she stood frozen, claws twitching, chant faltering into a gurgling gasp.
Then, with an unnatural groan, she collapsed.
The forest fell silent once more. Tianyi landed softly, her wings folding against her back as she stood over the lifeless form. Her breaths were ragged, her body trembling, but she forced herself to stay upright.
Tianyi steadied herself, her breaths slowing. That warmth¡ªstill faint, still inexplicable¡ªlingered within her chest. It wasn¡¯t the searing heat of the flames or the fiery rush of qi coursing through her wings. No, it was something calmer, yet steady. It had carried her through the fight, grounding her when her instincts screamed to flee.
''What was that?'' she thought, her antennae twitching faintly. It reminded her of the moments in practice when she had flowed with unpredictability, where precision didn¡¯t matter as much as feeling. But this... this wasn¡¯t skill. This was something deeper.
The memory of her erratic, unpredictable movements, how they seemed to confuse the hooded woman, surfaced in her mind. Was it the warmth that had guided her, loosening her form, her approach?
The thought was absurd, yet it stuck with her. She shook her head, dismissing it for now. There were more pressing matters to attend to.
Tianyi stood amidst the carnage, her sharp eyes scanning the broken remains of the clearing. The bodies of the Verdant Lotus Sect disciples lay motionless, their blood staining the snow like dark petals scattered across an icy canvas. She could see the remnants of their struggle¡ªthe gouged earth, the shattered lanterns, the signs of desperation etched into the ground.
Grimly, she clutched her injured arm. The cracks in her exoskeleton shimmered faintly in the morning light. It pulsed beneath her skin, a festering corruption that sent sharp stabs of pain radiating through her limb. She winced, her lips pressing into a thin line as she focused her energy.
Tianyi closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. Her qi began to flow, soft and steady at first, then growing stronger as she directed it toward her wounded arm. The pure energy swirled around the cracks, pushing against the invasive qi that writhed within her. She gritted her teeth, her body trembling with the effort.
The corrupted qi resisted, coiling like a living thing as it clung to her, refusing to be displaced. But Tianyi pressed harder, forcing her own energy to envelop it, isolate it, and begin breaking it apart. Beads of sweat formed on her brow as the effort drained her reserves, each pulse of her qi weakening her further.
Finally, the malevolent energy began to dissipate, retreating like a shadow burned away by sunlight. The cracks in her exoskeleton remained, raw and tender, but the vile presence within them had diminished. The pain subsided to a dull ache, and she exhaled shakily, lowering her arm.
¡°Windy,¡± she murmured to herself, her voice soft and hoarse. "Please be safe."
She straightened, forcing herself to stand tall despite the weariness that pressed down on her. The forest around her was eerily silent, the stillness almost suffocating. Her antennae twitched again, searching for any trace of her friend.
169. To Coil & Strike
How long had it been?
Windy hissed low, his pale scales disappearing against the frost-covered ground as he slithered through the snow. The sting of failure gnawed at him, sharper than the icy wind. His ambush had failed, leaving his body battered and his pride in tatters. The best he could do was slither around, avoiding the man''s attacks with evasive movement.
Behind him, heavy footsteps crushed the snow. His instincts screamed to flee, to vanish into the safety of the deeper woods.
But he didn¡¯t.
The serpent wanted to ask himself why, but deep down, he already knew the reason.
The cold bit into him, numbing his pain, but it was a double-edged sword. The snow sapped his strength, and he couldn¡¯t linger here long.
The hooded man¡¯s voice rasped through the quiet. ¡°Hiding, little snake? I¡¯ll tear you out by your fangs.¡±
The serpent burrowed into the snow, leaving faint tracks leading one way, then doubled back silently. His pale form weaved through the frost like a phantom, coiling beneath another drift. His tongue flicked again, tasting the air. The man¡¯s injured arm hung stiffly at his side, the deep gash still raw despite his lack of reaction to the wound.
''That¡¯s the weakness. That¡¯s where I strike.''
With a burst of motion, Windy launched himself from the snow. His tail whipped forward, qi sharpening its edge as it cracked like a whip toward the man¡¯s wounded arm.
The hooded man spun faster than Windy expected, his glowing eyes flaring with anticipation. His injured arm shot up to block, but the tail strike landed, splintering bone further. Without giving the slightest regard to his wound, the shadow raised his working arm for an attack.
The man¡¯s claws lashed out in a vicious arc, and Windy twisted desperately, his body contorting mid-air. He evaded the worst of it, but the claws grazed his tail, sending him spinning into the snowbank. Pain flared, sharp and biting, as crimson streaked the frost where he landed.
It was terribly difficult to deal with someone who was driven by madness to kill the other person without caring about their own life, regardless of the martial art¡¯s level.
Windy hissed, coiling defensively. His mind raced. ''He¡¯s too strong. Too fast. I can¡¯t match him head-on. Cunning alone won¡¯t save me.''
A memory flickered in his mind¡ªTianyi¡¯s erratic movements in battle, her unpredictable rhythm that seemed to defy logic. She hadn¡¯t abandoned her butterfly instincts; she¡¯d transformed them into something more.
Windy¡¯s coils tightened beneath the snow as realization dawned.
| Your dao is slowly forming. |
The hooded man tore through the snowbank, following the serpent''s false trail, his claws ripping into roots and frost alike. Windy waited, silent, until the man turned his back.
This time, he moved differently. Not just a predator, but something more. Something deadly.
Windy slithered low through the snow. The cold bit deep into his body once more, but he welcomed the sharpness¡ªit kept him present, grounded. Each movement was measured, deliberate, as the hooded man¡¯s enraged roars echoed through the forest. Snow churned, branches cracked, and the oppressive weight of malevolent qi bore down on the clearing like a smothering fog.
His tongue flicked, tasting the air. Blood, decay, anger. But Windy¡¯s own qi was dangerously low, flickering like the last embers of a dying flame. The fight had gone on for too long.
He slithered beneath a snowbank, his body coiling tightly. Pain flared in his tail, where the man¡¯s claws had torn through his scales, but he didn¡¯t let it distract him.
''This ends now. One way or another.''
The hooded man staggered into the clearing, his movements wild, erratic. Snow caked his bloodied claws, steam rising from his cracked lips.
Moments of clarity broke through Windy''s haze of exhaustion. The serpent¡¯s way had always been stealth, patience, and precision. Yet now, he saw the need for something more. The image of Tianyi, darting unpredictably through the air, weaving her butterfly instincts into a dance that transcended logic, flickered in his mind.
''Adapt,'' he realized. ''The serpent waits, but it can also strike from angles unseen.''
Snow churned as he moved in sudden, erratic bursts. He used low-hanging branches to disappear and reappear. He coiled around loose snowbanks, his pale body merging with the frost to confuse the man¡¯s senses. Each feint pushed the hooded man closer to blind rage.
The man¡¯s claws tore through a snowbank with terrifying force, scattering white powder into the air. ¡°You slippery little¡ª!¡± His words were cut off as Windy darted past him, a blur of motion that left only the faintest trace in the snow.
Each feint drained Windy¡¯s qi further. His breathing grew labored, his scales dulling. He had to finish it now.
The hooded man¡¯s eyes flared with malevolent light. He paused suddenly, his wild thrashing replaced with calculated stillness. Windy froze, his tongue tasting the shift.
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''A trap.''
The man feigned an opening, his injured left arm hanging loosely. Windy hesitated for a fraction of a second but knew he had no choice. He struck.
The moment his tail lashed out, the man twisted, his claws slicing through the air with blinding speed.
Time seemed to slow. Windy¡¯s body coiled instinctively, his mind racing. And then, an image.
Kai, deflecting a blow with an effortless motion, redirecting its force.
The serpent didn¡¯t think. He acted.
As the man¡¯s claw descended, his body moved in a flowing, wave-like motion. He didn¡¯t meet the strike head-on but shifted just enough to guide the attack past him. The force of the man¡¯s blow struck empty air, his balance faltering as he stumbled forward.
''Now.''
Windy twisted, his body coiling upward like a whip. His tail lashed around the man¡¯s arms, tightening with brutal precision. His fangs sank deep into the man¡¯s neck, injecting every last drop of venom stored within him.
The hooded man roared in fury, sinking his teeth down on his serpentine body. He tore into Windy¡¯s scales with a brutal ferocity that sent waves of agony coursing through the serpent¡¯s body. Each strike bit deeper, shredding flesh and muscle, and with every tear, the man''s corrupt qi seeped into Windy¡¯s wounds like a toxic fog. The invasive energy burned, spreading through his veins and coiling around his core like a living parasite.
Windy hissed in agony, his body trembling under the relentless assault, but his coils only tightened.
''A serpent doesn¡¯t have to fight head-on,''
The venom worked quickly, coursing through the man¡¯s veins like liquid fire. His movements grew weaker, his snarls fading into ragged breaths. Still, Windy didn¡¯t loosen his grip. He couldn¡¯t. If he let go, it would all be over.
''It waits in silence, coils its prey, and leaves nothing but bones.''
The man collapsed to his knees, his claws falling limp at his sides. His body convulsed once, twice, before finally going still.
Windy uncoiled slowly, his battered body trembling with exhaustion. He slithered back, his vision swimming, but he refused to fall. He raised his head, tasting the air one last time.
The malevolent qi that had tainted the clearing was gone. The suffocating presence that had hung over the forest like a storm cloud had dissipated, leaving only the faint metallic tang of blood on the cold wind.
Windy collapsed into the snow, his body coiling instinctively as pain radiated through him. His scales, once pristine and shimmering, were now marred with blood, torn in jagged lines where the hooded man¡¯s attacks had struck. His breath came in shallow gasps, each exhalation a faint wisp of steam that dissipated into the frost-laden air.
The world blurred around him. The snow seemed colder now, not a numbing reprieve but a creeping chill that threatened to steal his remaining strength. He could feel his life slipping away, his qi reserves drained to nothing, his venom depleted.
Yet, in the stillness, a strange peace settled over him.
''I did it,'' he thought, his tongue flicking weakly. ''I protected them. Even if I end here, Tianyi and Kai will be safe.''
The sound of a faint chime cut through the quiet, the Interface¡¯s notification resonating in his mind.
|
Quest: Path of the Serpent has been completed.
You completed the quest with additional challenges. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.
|
Windy hissed faintly, amused despite himself. ''What good are rewards if I¡¯m not around to claim them?''
The thought gnawed at him as his vision blurred, but there was no bitterness. Just the quiet satisfaction that came from knowing he had done what he set out to do.
His vision dimmed, and he let himself sink deeper into the snow, his thoughts drifting to the ones he fought to protect. Tianyi¡¯s sharp wit and the subtle grace with which she fought. Kai¡¯s unyielding determination, his fumbling kindness. They would go on.
And that was enough.
Just as his consciousness began to slip away entirely, a faint voice pierced the haze.
¡°Windy? Are you still alive?¡±
The serpent groaned internally. Of all the moments for Tianyi to arrive, why now? He was at death¡¯s door, bloodied and broken, and yet the thought of her seeing him like this sent a surge of embarrassment through him.
He uncoiled painfully, lifting his head with a hiss that was meant to sound defiant but came out pitifully weak.
''Of course I am,''
Tianyi stepped into view, her antennae twitching faintly as she scanned the clearing. Her usually flawless appearance was disheveled¡ªher hair singed at the edges, her robes charred and torn in places. The faint scent of smoke clung to her, and the fissures along the exoskeleton of her arm gleamed faintly in the moonlight, showing signs of corruption.
Windy narrowed his eyes, his sharp gaze taking in the signs of battle. ''The shadow. You¡ fought one too,'' he said, his voice quieter now.
Her wings folded tightly against her back as she knelt beside him. ¡°Yes. But we¡¯ll talk about that later. You¡¯re hurt.¡±
He hissed faintly, trying to shift away. ''I¡¯ll be fine.''
Tianyi didn¡¯t respond. She placed her hand gently on his scales, and a soft pulse of qi radiated from her palm. Warmth spread through his battered body, washing over the deep wounds and malignant qi.
The pain dulled, then faded, as her energy worked its way through him. For the first time since the fight began, he could breathe without agony clawing at his chest.
As the tension in his body eased, his vision dimmed again, this time with a strange sense of relief.
¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡± Tianyi said softly, her voice steady despite her own injuries.
Windy felt her arms lift him gently, cradling his weakened form. He let himself relax, the fight finally over, the weight of survival no longer his alone to bear.
And for once, as darkness claimed him, he felt safe.
SCENE BREAK
I paced the edge of the forest, the frost crunching beneath my boots as the winter wind bit into my skin. The chill seeped through my robes, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to retreat to the warmth of the house. Not when they were still out there.
The treeline loomed, a silent wall of shadows and snow. I stared into the darkness, searching for any sign¡ªanything to prove that Jian Feng¡¯s words weren¡¯t hollow, that trusting the Verdant Lotus Sect hadn¡¯t been a mistake. The waiting gnawed at me, an itch under my skin I couldn¡¯t scratch.
Trust. Believe in the sect. Let them handle it.
Jian Feng¡¯s voice echoed in my mind, but the words felt hollow now. How could I sit idly by while they risked everything?
I crossed my arms, gripping the fabric of my sleeves tightly to steady my trembling hands. Every passing moment felt heavier, the silence pressing down on me. The shadows beneath the trees shifted, but it was only the wind stirring the branches.
Still nothing.
My breath hung in the air as faint wisps of steam, dissolving into the cold. I felt the weight of the winter evening pressing against me, the fading light casting long, creeping shadows over the snow.
A flicker, faint and fleeting, brushed the edge of my consciousness. I froze. The bond I shared with Tianyi stirred, weak but unmistakable. Her presence, faint and frayed, but alive. A wave of exhaustion, worry, and relief flooded through me.
¡°Tianyi,¡± I whispered, the word barely leaving my lips before my body moved.
I bolted toward the forest, my boots slipping on the icy ground as I pushed through the underbrush. The sharp sting of branches scraping my face didn¡¯t register; my focus was on that faint connection growing stronger with every step.
¡°Tianyi!¡± I called out, my voice cutting through the cold air.
The faint hum of her wings answered first, a sound that made my chest tighten. I broke through the thick brush, the snow crunching underfoot, and finally saw them.
She stood at the edge of the forest, her wings folded tightly against her back. Her figure was small and fragile-looking, but her posture was steady. In her arms was Windy, his pale scales dulled and marred with streaks of blood.
¡°It''s me!¡± I shouted, my breath catching as I reached them. ¡°Are you¡ªwhat happened?¡±
She met my gaze, her antennae twitching faintly. Her face was pale, her features drawn with exhaustion, but her grip on Windy was firm despite the fissures along her forearm.
¡°We¡¯re alive,¡± she said simply, her voice steady but quiet. ¡°But the shadows¡ they attacked us.¡±
My heart sank. ¡°There were? How many?
She nodded, her expression grim. ¡°Two. The Verdant Lotus Sect¡¯s disciples¡ the immortals¡ they died.¡±
Her words hit like a physical blow. I stared at her, my mind racing to process what she was saying. The Verdant Lotus Sect had sent three second-class disciples, and they were gone? The realization settled heavily in my chest. This was far worse than any of us had anticipated.
¡°What about Windy?¡± I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
Tianyi looked down at the battered serpent in her arms. ¡°He fought against a shadow. But it''s strong. Too strong. He held his ground until I found him.¡±
My gaze fell to Windy¡¯s motionless form. His once-pristine scales were torn and bloodied, his breaths shallow and uneven. The sight of him like this made my stomach twist.
I clenched my fists, forcing myself to steady my breathing. ¡°We need to get him inside. Both of you. You¡¯re hurt.¡±
The cold wind bit at my face, but I barely felt it. My thoughts churned as I reached out, carrying her like a priceless vase, fearing a single misstep would shatter her delicate form.
Whatever this was, it wasn¡¯t just an isolated threat anymore. The Verdant Lotus Sect had been decimated. This was only the beginning.
I glanced back at the forest one last time, the treeline standing silent and unyielding against the darkening sky.
¡°Let¡¯s get home,¡± I said finally, my voice low. ¡°We¡¯ll figure this out. Together.¡±
170. A Bloody Return
The shop was cold, its silence pressing against me as I carried them inside. Windy''s body, once sleek and pristine, hung limp in Tianyi''s arms, streaked with blood and torn scales. Underneath the faint glow of the furnace, his injuries became clearer¡ªand more horrific. Entire sections of his flesh were exposed, his pale scales cracked and jagged. I could see faint quivers beneath the open wounds, the muscles twitching weakly as though fighting a battle of their own.
My stomach churned. I forced myself to breathe, to stay steady. Panic wouldn¡¯t save him.
My mind turned inward, reaching into the repository of knowledge I¡¯d painstakingly cultivated over the years. Recipes, techniques, theories¡ªall stored, all ready. What¡¯s the best I can make? What can I use now?
Lines of ingredients arranged themselves, forming pathways of reactions and counter-reactions. I could almost feel the potential, the weight of a hundred choices and their outcomes pressing against me.
One recipe stood out. The Purifying Basin Solution. I¡¯d read about it in the Million Book Pavilion during my quest to refine a hundred recipes, its formula etched into my mind. It was potent, thorough. But it required Verdant Amberroot, an ingredient I didn¡¯t have.
I frowned, my thoughts racing. Could it work without the Amberroot? Its primary purpose was stabilization, keeping the solution from overwhelming the injured body.
Substitute. There has to be something I can use instead.
I lowered him onto the counter as gently as I could, biting the inside of my cheek to stay focused. My hands trembled as I reached for a clean basin. The faint coppery scent of blood mixed with the lingering aroma of herbs in the shop, creating a nauseating contrast.
"Rinse first," I whispered, grabbing a bucket and hurrying outside to scoop up fresh snow. The icy chill stung my fingers, grounding me, though it did little to ease the tightness in my chest.
Back inside, I set the bucket near the furnace, stoking its flame with practiced precision. The Refinement Simulation Technique sparked to life, ghostly projections overlaying the furnace¡¯s interior. It felt automatic, my mind barely registering the glowing matrix of heat distribution and water conversion.
As the snow melted into warm water, I brought the basin closer, careful not to disturb Windy. ¡°This will help,¡± I murmured, more to myself than him. My voice wavered, betraying the fear I couldn¡¯t shake.
The moment I poured the water over his scales, a faint hiss echoed; not from Windy, but from his wounds. My heart sank. A dark, oily residue bubbled to the surface, writhing as though alive. The edges of his wounds pulsed faintly, the corrupted qi resisting even the warm water.
Tianyi stepped closer, her antennae twitching. ¡°I tried,¡± she said softly, her voice trembling. ¡°My healing wasn¡¯t enough. It doesn''t work well against it. Only slows.¡±
¡°I know,¡± I said, forcing calm into my tone. ¡°You did well. You saved him.¡±
I turned back to the shelves, scanning for the strongest herbs I had to substitute for the Verdant Amberroot. My fingers hovered over the Golden Bamboo essence, but I hesitated.
Too intense. It could push him over the edge.
I dashed into the greenhouse and grabbed the Jadeleaf Lily instead, its soft green petals glowing faintly under the moonlight.
I moved with practiced efficiency, stripping the petals and grinding them into a paste. My mind raced as the Refinement Simulation Technique spun to life again, showing me potential reactions. Each step shimmered in my mind, but I still felt the weight of uncertainty pressing against my ribs.
As I worked, Yin Si, a shadowy blur against the wall, descended silently. She moved with urgency, her thin legs weaving fine strands of silk in precise, almost frantic patterns.
¡°She wants to help,¡± Tianyi said softly, her voice a thread in the quiet room.
I glanced over my shoulder. The spider''s movements were swift, her delicate webs already wrapping around Tianyi¡¯s injured arm. A wave of gratitude welled up in me, but I focused on my task.
The mixture began to take shape, a potent purifying concoction. ¡°This has to work,¡± I muttered, distilling the paste into the basin with precision. The water glowed faintly, the dark residue bubbling more violently as the liquid took on purifying properties.
Windy twitched weakly as I lifted him into the basin. His body slipped under, but I kept his head propped above the water¡¯s surface, careful not to let him drown. His pale form floated almost lifelessly, his breathing shallow, but the glow of the concoction began to push back against the corrupted qi.
¡°Hold on,¡± I whispered, gripping the basin¡¯s edge tightly.
I observed him for several minutes, tracking every change. I breathed a sigh of relief; it seemed the mixture was dispelling some of the malignant qi, as slow as it was.
Tianyi moved beside me, her injured arm cradled against her chest. Yin Si was gone, just as quickly as she appeared. But she left Tianyi''s arm covered tightly with silk thread. My gaze flicked to her briefly, catching the jagged cracks along her exoskeleton.
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¡°Your arm,¡± I said quietly, breaking the silence.
¡°From the shadow,¡± she replied, though her voice lacked strength. "They are slow, but allowing one attack leads to this."
I grabbed another clean cloth, soaking it in the same medicinal mixture. ¡°What happened out there?¡±
She hesitated, her wings shifting faintly. ¡°The shadow¡ They were chanting something. Doing something to the bodies. They planted a seed."
My pulse quickened, but I forced my hands to stay steady. ¡°What did they say?¡± I said, my voice low.
¡°I¡¡± She hesitated, her antennae curling slightly. ¡°I don¡¯t want to. It doesn''t make me feel good.¡±
"Please, Tianyi. We need to learn who they''re behind."
After a moment of indecision, she relented. "... She kept saying, ¡®Praise the Heavenly Demon.¡¯¡± Her words were hesitant, each syllable dripping with unease.
The air seemed to shift, the phrase lingering unnaturally. There was something wrong with those words¡ªsomething deeper than fear. It clawed at the edges of my mind, like a shadow slithering through unseen cracks.
I hurriedly soaked the cloth in the leftover mixture, squeezing out the excess before pressing it gently against the silk threads wrapped around Tianyi¡¯s arm. My fingers trembled as I worked, the motions automatic but weighted by the sight of her injuries. The threads glistened faintly as they absorbed the concoction, swelling slightly. The glow of the liquid seemed to seep into the silk, a faint pulse radiating across the threads.
Tianyi''s wings fluttered faintly, and her posture relaxed. The tension in her shoulders eased, her antennae lifting slightly. The pain must have dulled; her sharp exoskeletal features no longer seemed as rigid with strain.
¡°Is it working?¡± I asked, though I could already see the answer.
She nodded, her voice soft. ¡°It¡¯s better.¡±
Relief swept through me, but it was quickly replaced by guilt. Without thinking, I leaned forward and wrapped my arms around her, pulling her into a tight hug. She stiffened at first, then let out a faint sigh, her arms resting awkwardly at her sides.
¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I whispered, my voice breaking. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for leaving you alone out there. For trusting them. For letting you fend for yourselves.¡±
Her head tilted slightly, her expression unchanging as she looked at me. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to apologize for,¡± she said bluntly. ¡°I chose to go. Windy did too. You didn¡¯t make us.¡±
¡°But I should¡¯ve stopped you,¡± I said, pulling back slightly to look at her. ¡°I should¡¯ve been there. I should¡¯ve¡ª¡±
¡°You can¡¯t change what happened. And you weren¡¯t wrong to trust the sect disciples. They were capable. Just not enough.¡±
Her bluntness cut through the storm of my thoughts, but the weight in my chest didn¡¯t lift. I glanced at Windy, his pale form floating weakly in the basin. My hands curled into fists, and for a moment, I let the guilt overwhelm me.
¡°You almost died. Both of you. And I let it happen.¡±
Tianyi tilted her head, her antennae twitching faintly. ¡°You didn¡¯t let anything happen. You¡¯re here now. Fixing it.¡±
Her words struck a chord, but they didn¡¯t absolve me. My vision blurred as I stared at Windy. ¡°I was indecisive. I stayed here, trying to believe in Jian Feng¡¯s words. I should¡¯ve trusted my instincts.¡±
¡°You didn¡¯t know what would happen,¡± she said simply. ¡°Neither did we. You are not perfect, Kai.¡±
Her honesty was both grounding and painful. My shoulders sagged, the weight of the day pressing down on me. For the first time since I¡¯d carried Windy into the shop, I let myself feel the fear, the anger, and the overwhelming guilt. A few tears slipped down my cheeks before I could stop them.
¡°I won¡¯t let it happen again,¡± I said, my voice firm despite the quiver. ¡°I won¡¯t leave you in danger. Ever again.¡±
Tianyi didn¡¯t reply immediately. Instead, she rested her uninjured hand on my arm, her touch light but steady.
The danger wasn¡¯t over. Not with whatever this ¡°Heavenly Demon¡± was. If I was going to protect them, I couldn¡¯t let myself drown in guilt.
I turned my focus back to Windy and Tianyi, channeling every ounce of determination I had into their recovery. There was no room for anything else.
¡°Tianyi,¡± I said softly, keeping my voice calm and steady. ¡°You¡¯ve done more than enough for today. You need to rest.¡±
Her antennae tilted, and her unfocused gaze met mine, stubbornness flickering faintly in her expression. ¡°I don¡¯t need¡ª¡±
¡°You do,¡± I interrupted gently. ¡°Please, trust me. Rest.¡±
She hesitated for a moment, her gaze lingering on me as if assessing whether I truly meant it. Finally, she nodded, albeit reluctantly, and shifted closer. Without another word, she laid herself down, her movements stiff as her head settled lightly on my lap. Her wings folded against her back, and though her eyes didn¡¯t close, they lost their sharpness, becoming distant. Her body went limp, her breathing slowing, and a strange stillness settled over her.
I sat there for a long time, observing her and Windy. The room was quiet, the faint crackle of the furnace the only sound as the minutes stretched into hours. My gaze flicked between the two of them, the weight of the day pressing down on me in ways I couldn¡¯t ignore.
And yet¡ I didn¡¯t feel tired.
That realization crept in gradually, like a thought half-formed before taking shape. I should¡¯ve been exhausted after staying awake this long, completing morning training, and keeping my body infused with qi to withstand the tribulation throughout the day.
But my body didn¡¯t ache. My movements didn¡¯t feel sluggish or strained. Even my reserves weren''t as drained as they should. I flexed my fingers experimentally, marveling at how steady they felt.
The transition from every rank in the mortal realm was like a gradual climb up a staircase. But going up a rank in the Qi Initiation stage had been significant, like leaping a flight of stairs. If I kept going at this rate, the tribulation would be mitigated within two more breakthroughs. I''d be able to move as though I wasn''t moving with triple my bodyweight.
A thought struck me. I closed my eyes and turned my focus inward, toward the energy coursing through my body. On top of my breakthrough in my body, my qi going from the peak of Qi Initiation stage to the beginning of Essence Awakening stage was like night and day.
The noise of the world around me faded into a faint hum, leaving only the quiet pulse of my qi. It coursed through me like a river, steady and deep, but as I concentrated, I realized something was different.
In my mind¡¯s eye, I visualized my dantian. It had always been a source of strength, growing larger as my qi reserves expanded. But now, it had changed. The orb seemed smaller, almost as though it had shrunk slightly since my last breakthrough. Yet, despite the decrease in size, it felt denser, heavier, as though it carried the weight of something far greater than before.
I frowned, focusing more intently. My reserves weren¡¯t diminished; if anything, they had increased. But this denser, more concentrated form of qi was¡ efficient. Each pulse felt sharper, more deliberate, like a blade honed to its absolute peak.
That¡¯s how I¡¯d been withstanding the tribulation all day. My body, strengthened by the breakthrough, bore the brunt of the additional weight without expending as much qi. And my reserves, though denser, seemed to stretch further, making every bit of effort more sustainable.
I was getting stronger. Rapidly. Too rapidly.
I opened my eyes, staring down at my hands. They didn¡¯t tremble now, despite everything. My body felt alive in a way it never had before, humming with potential. This wasn¡¯t normal¡ªeven with the province experiencing growth like never before. Most cultivators spent months, even years, consolidating their breakthroughs. Yet here I was, ascending in leaps and bounds as though something¡ªor someone¡ªwas pushing me forward.
My gaze drifted to the Interface, its presence a constant but quiet hum in the back of my mind. It didn¡¯t feel intrusive, but I couldn¡¯t shake the sensation that it was guiding me, nudging me along a path I couldn¡¯t yet see.
¡°Preparing me for something,¡± I muttered under my breath, the words barely audible in the quiet room. Whatever it was, it couldn¡¯t be good.
I clenched my fists, my knuckles whitening. This was too fast. Too much. But it wasn¡¯t a blessing I could afford to question. Not when I needed this strength to protect Windy, Tianyi, and the village.
My thoughts shifted to the Verdant Lotus Sect. I thought of Jian Feng¡¯s words earlier, his calm, unyielding confidence that they would handle everything. I had trusted them, believing their strength and experience would keep us safe. And yet their scouting team had perished.
Trust didn¡¯t mean blind obedience. Elder Ming¡¯s voice echoed in my mind, telling me to rely on the Verdant Lotus Sect, to believe in their capability. But tonight had made one thing painfully clear: they weren¡¯t infallible. I couldn¡¯t afford to follow blindly anymore. Not when lives hung in the balance.
I looked at Tianyi, her fragile figure resting against me, and at Windy, his pale form still soaking in the basin.
Carefully, I shifted, laying Tianyi down on a clean cushion beside me. Her antennae twitched faintly, but she didn¡¯t wake. Windy¡¯s breathing had steadied, his body no longer trembling with the strain of the corrupted qi.
I reached for a dry cloth, gently lifting Windy from the basin and patting him dry. His scales, though still marred with faint cracks, had regained some of their luster. I set him down in a makeshift nest of soft cloths, ensuring his head was propped up slightly.
Standing, I took a deep breath, letting the cool air of the shop steady me. The moment of rest was over. There was still much to do, and the Verdant Lotus Sect needed to know what had happened.
171. Hidden Currents Surge
Tianyi flitted ahead, her movements sharp and deliberate, her antennae twitching as she retraced her footsteps. Behind me, the seventeen disciples of the Verdant Lotus Sect followed, their presence a mix of stoic determination and a tension that hung in the air like a held breath.
At the front of their group, Jian Feng moved with a speed and precision that belied the turmoil etched on his face. His usual air of confidence was gone, replaced by something raw, something broken. His jaw was set, his eyes fixed ahead as if avoiding any risk of meeting mine. His stride carried urgency, but there was no denying the weight of his steps.
I tried not to focus too much on him, but it was impossible not to notice the tightness in his shoulders, the faint tremor in his hands when he adjusted the hilt of his blade. The memory of my earlier anger toward him burned in my chest, sour and bitter. I had blamed him¡ªyelled at him, even¡ªfor stopping me from running into the forest after my companions. At the time, his refusal had felt like arrogance, like a misplaced sense of control over the situation.
Now, as I watched him push forward, faster than the rest of his disciples could comfortably follow, I realized the truth. Jian Feng wasn¡¯t infallible. I''d placed him on a pedestal, much like the older disciples, as people wiser and smarter than I was. But he¡¯d been reeling, his world knocked off balance by the news of his comrades¡¯ deaths.
Guilt gnawed at me, but there was no time to dwell on it. The pace he set was grueling, faster than I would have liked given the lingering weight of the tribulation on my body. My strengthened frame and newly increased qi reserves kept me moving, but I couldn¡¯t ignore the sharp pull on my energy reserves. Every step required a touch of qi to counteract the oppressive weight I still bore, and though it wasn¡¯t unbearable, it added up quickly.
Tianyi slowed briefly, glancing back at me. Her eyes narrowed in concern, but she didn¡¯t speak. She didn¡¯t have to. I nodded at her, a silent assurance that I could keep up. Her antennae twitched, and she turned back to lead the way.
The disciples murmured faintly behind me, their voices hushed but laced with unease. I caught snippets of their conversation.
Three second-class disciples, dead. The first incident of this magnitude in years.
''If I never asked them to protect the village, then maybe...''
The air grew heavier as we neared the clearing. Tianyi paused, hovering above the snow, her wings folding tightly against her back. She tilted her head, her antennae twitching as if confirming something unseen. Without a word, she gestured forward, leading us into the site of the battle.
The first thing I noticed was the silence. It was absolute, oppressive, like the forest itself was holding its breath. Then the smell hit me; blood, heavy and metallic, mixed with something acrid and wrong.
Jian Feng froze as the scene came into view. The three disciples lay sprawled across the snow, their bodies twisted unnaturally. Their robes, once pristine and marked with the insignia of the Verdant Lotus Sect, were shredded and stained with dark streaks of blood. But it wasn¡¯t just the sight of their injuries that made my stomach turn.
It was the flower.
At the center of the clearing, surrounded by the broken forms of the disciples, was something I could barely bring myself to name. It was shaped like a flower¡ªor at least, some grotesque parody of one. Its petals were fleshy and raw, glistening in the faint light like exposed muscle. Dark, vein-like tendrils snaked along its body, pulsing faintly as if carrying some vile lifeblood. The veins extended outward, creeping across the snow like roots seeking sustenance. They touched the disciples¡¯ bodies, and where they did, the decay was undeniable. Flesh sagged, clothing frayed, and even their once-pristine weapons seemed dulled.
The petals of the flower quivered slightly, as if breathing, and with every faint movement, a pulse of malevolent energy twisted the air around it. It pressed against my senses, slithering like an unseen fog.
It was feeding. Slowly but surely, it was absorbing everything; their blood, flesh, and even the very fabric of their robes. One of the disciples¡¯ sashes had disintegrated entirely, leaving frayed threads that dissolved into nothingness the longer I stared.
I forced myself to look away, focusing instead on the faces of the fallen disciples. My chest tightened, the breath hitching in my throat as I recognized them.
I had known them¡ªnot well, but enough. These weren¡¯t just faceless warriors who came and went from the village. They had patrolled our streets. Protected the people. Zhao Yun had taught the children simple self-defense techniques, his patience endless. Ning Xue... I barely knew her. She had passed through as the patrol late at night, offering a polite nod or an occasional comment about the weather. Nothing memorable, nothing profound. She was just there, another face in the village¡¯s rhythm, part of the fabric of everyday life.
And now, she was gone.
Their faces were unrecognizable, twisted in agony, their features distorted by whatever dark energy had claimed them.
This was my first time seeing the dead. Not the peaceful kind, where age had taken its toll. Not like my parents, who were taken by illness. This was violent, sudden, wrong.
I tried to swallow, but my throat felt dry. A numbness settled over me, broken only by the faint tremble in my hands as I clenched my fists at my sides. My mind tried to process it, to reconcile the smiling faces I remembered with the grotesque reality before me.
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Jian Feng¡¯s voice shattered the silence, raw and trembling. ¡°Zhao Yun,¡± he whispered, his knees buckling as he dropped beside the nearest body. His hand hovered above the disciple¡¯s torn shoulder, trembling as if afraid to touch. ¡°Ning Xue. Hua Cheng¡¡±
Each name was a blow, punctuated by the grief in his voice. The other disciples stood in stunned silence, their expressions frozen in varying degrees of shock and horror. They didn¡¯t speak, didn¡¯t move. They simply stared at the scene before them, the unshakable foundation of their faith in the sect cracking under the weight of what they saw.
Jian Feng knelt beside the nearest body, his trembling hand hovering over the torn shoulder of Zhao Yun. His lips parted as if to speak, but no words came. The weight of the loss seemed to press him into the snow, his shoulders sagging under an invisible burden. His eyes closed for a moment, his breath hitching as he fought to steady himself.
He clenched his jaw, struggling to speak.
¡°What¡ what is this?¡± he demanded, his voice a mix of anger and desperation.
I wanted to say something, anything, but the words stuck in my throat. My gaze was drawn back to the flower, its grotesque form a stark reminder of how little I understood. Its energy clawed at my senses, invasive and wrong, but beneath the revulsion, there was something more¡ªan echo of the phrase Tianyi had repeated.
Praise the Heavenly Demon.
The phrase hung in my mind, heavy and unrelenting, like a storm cloud that wouldn¡¯t disperse. There was something sinister about it, something that clawed at the edges of my thoughts and refused to let go. I turned back to the grotesque flower, my gaze lingering on the pulsing veins that snaked outward. The way they latched onto the fallen disciples, siphoning their essence¡ it wasn¡¯t just wrong.
It was familiar.
I wracked my brain, my thoughts spinning through the tangled web of everything I¡¯d read, seen, and experienced. Why did this seem familiar? Why did this grotesque flower, this abomination, feel like something I should know?
And then it hit me.
¡°The Grand Alchemy Gauntlet,¡± I whispered, my voice barely audible.
Jian Feng turned sharply, his grief momentarily pushed aside by the urgency in my tone. ¡°What did you say?¡±
I didn¡¯t answer immediately. My mind had already latched onto the memory, dragging it into the light. The preliminaries, where I¡¯d been tested on my knowledge of herbs and ingredients. There had been one I couldn¡¯t identify, no matter how hard I tried. Its withered, grotesque form had stood out even among the rarest of specimens. Zhi Ruo''s voice came to mind.
''Ah, yes. That¡ that would be a¡ª''
"Bloodsoul Bloom. That''s the flower."
The resemblance was undeniable, though the one I¡¯d seen in the Gauntlet had been a dried husk compared to this monstrous thing.
¡°What do you know about it?¡± Jian Feng pressed, his voice tight with urgency.
¡°It¡¯s¡ it¡¯s from the Gauntlet,¡± I said finally, the words tasting bitter on my tongue. ¡°The one I saw was dried, withered. They don¡¯t grow like normal herbs. They subsist off blood. They were found in the territory of demonic cultivators¡ªto siphon life force and qi, to fuel their rituals.¡±
I saw Jian Feng¡¯s expression shift. The devastation in his eyes gave way to something colder, sharper. Fear, anger, realization.
The second-class disciple''s jaw tightened, his knuckles pale as his hand hovered over his blade. His grief was momentarily eclipsed by something else¡ªa rising urgency, a flickering rage barely contained beneath the surface.
¡°We need to destroy it,¡± he said, his voice sharp and commanding. ¡°If what you say is true, this abomination can¡¯t be allowed to remain.¡±
¡°Wait,¡± I interjected, my voice steady but firm. Jian Feng turned toward me, his expression darkening, but I pressed on. ¡°Destroying it won¡¯t help us understand it. We need to study it, to figure out how to counter it. If this flower was planted here intentionally, destroying it now means losing a chance to learn its purpose.¡±
¡°And if it spreads?¡± he snapped. ¡°If its roots burrow into the earth, if it takes hold of the forest? You think you can outpace that kind of corruption with your experiments?¡±
His words stung, but I forced myself to stay calm. ¡°It hasn¡¯t spread beyond what it¡¯s already claimed,¡± I said. ¡°Not yet. Look around you. It¡¯s feeding off the bodies and the ground here, but it¡¯s contained. If we handle it carefully, I can keep it that way.¡±
Jian Feng¡¯s eyes narrowed, his frustration clear, but I saw the hesitation in his stance.
¡°You¡¯re saying you can contain this thing? That you can learn something the sect can¡¯t?¡±
¡°No,¡± I said simply. ¡°It''s because I¡¯m the closest alchemist you have. The sect is days away, and we don¡¯t even know if they¡¯ve dealt with something like this before. But I¡¯ve studied plants for a lifetime. I know their patterns, how to isolate them. Let me handle this.¡±
He opened his mouth to argue, but his words faltered. For a moment, I saw the exhaustion in his eyes, the weight of the losses he¡¯d borne. ¡°Fine,¡± he said finally, his voice low and taut. ¡°But if it shows even a hint of spreading, we burn it. Understood?¡±
¡°Understood,¡± I said.
The disciples shifted uneasily, their gazes darting between me and the flower as though expecting it to lash out at any moment. They carefully approached the bodies of their fallen comrades, their movements deliberate and reverent. With blades glowing faintly with qi, they cut away the grotesque veins latched onto the corpses. The tendrils recoiled slightly, releasing their grip with an unsettling wet sound before falling limp.
I turned to Tianyi. ¡°Do you remember anything about the person you fought? Did they have anything on their person?¡±
She hesitated, her antennae twitching as she glanced at the fallen disciples. ¡°I didn¡¯t check, I was focused on getting Windy and myself out.¡±
¡°Then we need to search them,¡± I said, gesturing toward the hooded figure¡¯s body. ¡°If they had more seeds or anything else, we need to know.¡±
Jian Feng gave a terse nod, motioning for two disciples to join us. Together, we approached the corpse.
The figure¡¯s body lay in two halves, their dark robes soaked in blood that had turned the snow beneath them into a blackened slush. Their hood had slipped back, exposing a grotesque visage.
The face that greeted us was inhumanly unsettling. It was a woman¡ªor what had once been one. Her disheveled hair clung to her scalp in patches, strands tangled with dried blood. The corners of her cracked lips curled unnaturally, as though frozen in a fractured smile.
Tianyi pointed to a satchel at her side, its strap barely hanging onto her shoulder. One of the disciples hesitated, then carefully cut the strap and opened the bag. Inside were several small, dark seeds, their surfaces veined with the same sinister pattern as the Bloodsoul Bloom.
Jian Feng¡¯s expression darkened further as he inspected them. ¡°We¡¯ll send these back to the sect immediately,¡± he said. ¡°They need to know what we¡¯re dealing with.¡±
¡°And I¡¯ll keep the live sample,¡± I added, gesturing toward the flower. ¡°I need it to figure out how to counter whatever this is.¡±
He turned to his disciples, barking orders. ¡°Cut the flower carefully, roots and all. Pack it securely. Five of you will escort the bodies, the flower, and the seeds back to the village.¡±
The disciples moved with grim efficiency, their movements precise and careful as they worked to separate the grotesque veins from the bodies. I couldn¡¯t bring myself to watch for long, my gaze drifting instead to the darkened forest beyond.
¡°There¡¯s still one more,¡± Tianyi said, her voice quiet but insistent. ¡°The one Windy fought. It¡¯s further in.¡±
Jian Feng straightened, his expression sharpening. ¡°Lead the way."
We followed Tianyi deeper into the forest, the tension mounting with every step.
She trekked several li into the heart of the wilderness. My fists clenched. Hard enough to draw blood.
''After dispatching of the monster that killed three disciples, she continued to press on.''
The thought sent a shiver down my spine. This deep into the forest, the air was different. Heavier. The trees loomed taller, their gnarled branches twisting into shapes that blocked the faint light of the moon.
They had been alone, fighting an opponent strong enough to push them this far, while I had been pacing the edge of the forest like a helpless fool.
Tianyi moved ahead, her wings folded tightly against her back, her antennae twitching as she scanned for the location of the battle. Despite her confident pace, there was a tension in her posture, a stiffness that hadn¡¯t been there before. She knew the way, but I could tell even she wasn¡¯t comfortable being here.
The Verdant Lotus Sect disciples followed in silence, their expressions grim and their hands hovering near their weapons. Jian Feng remained at the front of the group.
Tianyi slowed, her wings fluttering faintly as she tilted her head. ¡°We¡¯re close,¡± she said softly.
Her words sent a ripple of tension through the group. I focused ahead, the faint outlines of a clearing becoming visible through the dense trees. She paused at the edge, her antennae twitching rapidly as she scanned the area.
When we stepped into the clearing, Tianyi froze.
I stiffened, watching her gaze sweep the clearing.
¡°It¡¯s not here,¡± she said, her voice trembling slightly.
Jian Feng was beside her in an instant. ¡°What do you mean, ¡®not here¡¯?¡± he demanded, his voice sharp.
¡°The body. It¡¯s¡ gone.¡±
172. A Flower That Feeds on Death
The day passed by like a blur, each moment blending into the next as I stood among the villagers and Verdant Lotus Sect disciples. Their decision to halt further excursions into the forest was met with heavy silence, the weight of the fallen disciples pressing down on everyone like a suffocating shroud. No one argued. Even Elder Ming, upon hearing the news, had only nodded gravely, his usual calm replaced by a somber stillness.
The village mirrored his mood. Conversations were hushed, movements subdued. It wasn¡¯t fear, exactly; it was grief, and something more insidious. A creeping awareness that the forest had changed, that we were no longer safe.
Now, back home, I stood in the quiet shop, my focus narrowing to the task before me. Tianyi and Windy were resting, their breathing steady but their conditions still far from healthy. I couldn¡¯t allow myself to linger on their injuries or the sense of helplessness that crept in whenever I looked at them. There was no time for doubt.
The Bloodsoul Bloom sat contained in a reinforced vessel on my workbench, its grotesque form quivering faintly.
I took a deep breath, steadying my hands as I prepared my tools. This was dangerous, possibly reckless, but I couldn¡¯t wait for the sect¡¯s response. If this flower was a harbinger of more to come, then understanding it was the only way to protect the village and everyone I cared about.
I closed my eyes, entering my mindscape, perusing the Memory Palace for an iota of information regarding the plant in my studies. But aside from Zhi Ruo''s brief mention, nothing was there. But if I had to guess, it was from the same era as the Golden Bamboo; maybe even older.
My hands hovered over the reinforced vessel. I hesitated, my gut warning me to stop, but I pushed the doubt aside. Plant Whisperer. It had served me well before. Surely, the skill would reveal something now.
I exhaled slowly, centering myself. My fingers brushed the edge of the vessel, and I reached out, extending a thread of connection to the bloom.
The reaction was immediate.
The world around me seemed to blur, the shop melting away into an oppressive void. It was as if I were staring into an endless abyss, the air thick and suffocating. My connection didn¡¯t meet the usual serene flow of a plant¡¯s essence. Instead, it collided with something jagged, chaotic¡ªa swirling storm of death and decay.
A wave of dread crashed over me, unlike anything I¡¯d felt before. It wasn¡¯t just fear; it was a primal terror, as if I were gazing at something that shouldn¡¯t exist. Shadows danced at the edges of my vision, and a low, keening sound reverberated in my mind. It wasn¡¯t a voice, not exactly, but the sensation was clear.
Doom.
Impending, unrelenting, inevitable doom.
I gasped and yanked my hand back as though burned, severing the connection. My heart raced, my breaths coming in short, shallow bursts. The shop reappeared around me, its quiet warmth a jarring contrast to the suffocating void I¡¯d just experienced. Windy and Tianyi were still sleeping a small distance away, undisturbed by my reaction.
The Bloodsoul Bloom quivered faintly in its vessel, unchanged. Yet, its malevolence seemed stronger, as if it had fed off my brief attempt to commune with it.
My hands trembled as I gripped the edge of the workbench to steady myself.
¡°What are you?¡± I whispered.
I didn¡¯t have an answer, but one thing was clear: this wasn¡¯t a plant in any conventional sense. Its essence didn¡¯t nurture or grow. It consumed. Fed on death. Every instinct I had screamed that it didn¡¯t belong in this world.
But I needed to find out more.
Reviewing the brief experience, it was certainly a yin-aligned plant. Its energy was cold, dark, and stagnant. Yet, something about it felt wrong, distorted. Yin qi itself wasn¡¯t inherently harmful; an imbalance could wreak havoc, much like an overabundance of yang qi, but it typically manifested in ways that promoted tranquility, rest, or even renewal.
This was different. It was aggressive, almost predatory. It didn¡¯t soothe or slow; it devoured. I couldn¡¯t help but compare it to the Moonlit Grace Lily, a serene yin-aligned plant that radiated calm and grew gently under moonlight. The Bloodsoul Bloom was its antithesis; chaotic and unnatural.
I leaned closer, studying the bloom¡¯s grotesque physical form. The fleshy petals pulsed faintly, as if alive. The vein-like tendrils along its surface quivered intermittently, giving the impression of something waiting, dormant yet insidious. Its roots coiled tightly within the vessel, refusing to extend or interact with anything around them.
If it truly thrived on death, I needed to test that theory.
I reached for a hybrid astragalus plant from my collection. A contrast to the bloom¡¯s oppressive nature. Carefully, I placed the it near the Bloodsoul Bloom, watching for any reaction.
Nothing.
The Bloodsoul Bloom remained inert, its tendrils still and uninterested. The Astragalus continued to sit untouched, unaffected by the ominous presence beside it. I frowned, removing the plant and pacing the room as I tried to puzzle through the bloom¡¯s nature.
It was feeding on something. It had to be. The flower in the forest had clearly absorbed the vitality of the disciples and even the essence of their robes.
I glanced toward the far corner of the shop, where shadows pooled. The faint glimmer of silken threads caught my eye, and I grimaced. Yin Si¡¯s handiwork. Webbed bundles of tiny corpses were nestled there¡ªrats and small animals Windy used to prey on before his absence from home had left them untouched, piling up in neglected corners.
It was unpleasant, but it was also a lead.
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I murmured an apology under my breath for disturbing Yin Si¡¯s stash, carefully extracting a webbed-up rat corpse from the tangle. The weight of it in my hand was unsettling, the little body stiff and lifeless, but it was exactly what I needed.
Back at the workbench, I placed the corpse near the Bloodsoul Bloom. For a moment, nothing happened. Then, as I leaned closer, I noticed the faintest stir.
The veins running along the bloom¡¯s surface began to pulse faintly, the rhythm irregular but unmistakable. Slowly, one of the tendrils extended outward, its motion unnaturally deliberate. It crept toward the rat corpse, pausing mere centimeters away, as if testing the air around it.
My breath caught as the tendril twitched once, twice, before darting forward and latching onto the corpse. A low, keening sound filled the air, barely audible but enough to send a chill down my spine.
I stepped back, resisting the urge to sever the connection immediately. Instead, I forced myself to observe. The tendril pulsed as it fed, the motion hypnotic and grotesque. The rat¡¯s body, already lifeless, began to shrivel further, its form collapsing in on itself as the bloom drew whatever essence remained.
The rat¡¯s already-decayed body began to collapse inward, its form reduced to an ashen husk. I noted every detail, my mind racing to piece together the implications.
The tendril withdrew once its feeding was complete, curling back toward the bloom¡¯s base. It pulsed faintly, as though sated, before becoming still once more. My chest tightened as I observed the faint traces of malevolent qi emanating from it, growing more pronounced after its macabre feast.
I needed more data.
Turning to my pill furnace, I carefully separated a small piece of the bloom, its flesh slightly sticky and exuding a faint, acrid smell. The fragment quivered unnervingly in my hand as I placed it into the furnace. I adjusted the heat with painstaking precision, my Refinement Simulation Technique overlaying projected reactions and temperature gradients over the furnace¡¯s surface.
The bloom¡¯s fragment began to burn, releasing a dense, black smoke that spiraled upward. I leaned back, watching as the fumes shifted unnaturally, almost writhing in the air. The acrid scent thickened, accompanied by a faint metallic tang. My stomach churned as the smoke curled into strange patterns before dissipating.
Ash remained, its color an unnatural deep crimson, flecked with black. I collected the residue carefully, placing it into a small vial for later analysis.
The bloom resisted conventional alchemical reactions. Most herbs, when burned, would leave identifiable traits in their smoke¡ªearthy, sweet, bitter. This was none of those. It was alien, its properties incomprehensible through normal means.
"Now, let''s see if I can extract its essence..."
I separated another piece from the live sample. Normally, drawing essence from plants was straightforward; a pull and flow, as though coaxing sap from a tree. But as I focused on the Bloodsoul Bloom, I realized this was going to be anything but simple.
The moment I extended my qi, it was as if I had touched a live wire. The bloom resisted fiercely, its essence jagged and uncooperative. Most plants yielded to my pull, except with certain ones with exceptional strength bearing some resistance, like the Golden Bamboo. This, however, felt entirely different. It wasn¡¯t like extracting from a plant at all. It was closer to siphoning from something alive¡ªa living being with a will of its own.
I hesitated, the weight of that realization pressing against my thoughts. The skill allowed me to extract from both plants and metals, but I¡¯d never tested its limits since my preparation for the Gauntlet. I hadn''t touched Master Li Tao''s teachings in weeks, due to the sheer amount of tasks I had to keep up with.
The process of learning to extract essence from metals had been grueling, requiring weeks of effort and countless failures. Yet here I was, confronted with something that blurred the line between plant and... something else.
There was no better time to test myself.
Steeling my resolve, I pushed forward, pulling harder with my qi. The bloom¡¯s resistance was palpable, the process a grueling tug-of-war. My entire focus narrowed to the connection, every fiber of my being attuned to the intricate battle of wills. The bloom¡¯s essence was fighting. For every thread of qi I extended, the plant pushed back with a chaotic, almost predatory force.
Sweat beaded on my forehead as I poured more energy into the extraction. Unlike metals, which had required sheer force and will, this felt nuanced. It wasn¡¯t about overpowering the bloom but maneuvering around its chaotic energy, finding gaps in its resistance and weaving through them. The process, while grueling, was less foreign than working with metals had been. Perhaps because, at its core, it still retained some similarity to plants.
Finally, the resistance broke. A tendril of dark essence peeled away, its motion sluggish and reluctant as it separated from the bloom. I guided it carefully, condensing it into a single droplet that hung in the air, pulsing faintly with an eerie rhythm.
The essence settled into a reinforced vial with a soft hiss, the liquid thick and viscous. It shimmered faintly, the color shifting between deep crimson and black as though alive.
| Spiritual Herbalism has reached level 8. |
I exhaled sharply, wiping the sweat from my brow. The level increase was a small relief, but it didn¡¯t offset the unease curling in my gut. The essence carried the same malevolence as the bloom itself, amplified in its concentrated form. I sealed the vial tightly, ensuring it wouldn¡¯t spill or interact with anything.
For now, I wouldn¡¯t test it further. This was a discovery I needed to tread carefully with. Yet the fact I¡¯d managed to extract it at all gave me a glimmer of hope.
I set the vial aside, the bloom fragment now shriveled and lifeless.
Finally, I prepared myself for the most dangerous experiment yet. My own qi.
I hesitated, my gaze fixed on the demonic plant. Infusing qi into plants was typically a harmonious process, a way to amplify their natural properties, strengthen their essence, and accelerate their growth. It was a technique rooted in balance, nurturing the plant¡¯s inherent nature. But this was no ordinary plant. The usual certainty that infusing qi would bring benefit was nowhere to be found.
Instead, doubt gnawed at me. Would my qi strengthen its already warped nature? Could it evolve into something even more dangerous? Yet, I needed answers. I needed to see if this plant could change; if it had stages of growth, hidden layers of power that could reveal more about its origins. Despite the risk, I knew this was the only path forward. For better or worse, I needed to learn.
Taking a deep breath, I placed my hand just above the plant, creating a connection with the bloom. I kept the flow steady and controlled, testing its reaction.
At first, nothing happened. The bloom quivered faintly, as it had before, but then¡ª
It writhed.
The tendrils along its surface flared outward, pulsating erratically. The petals twisted, curling inward before unfurling violently. A low, keening sound filled the air, louder than before, as though the plant was protesting.
Suddenly, the bloom began to collapse. Its petals withered rapidly, darkening and shriveling as though my qi had poisoned it. The tendrils recoiled, retreating into the vessel before falling limp. Within moments, the entire plant was lifeless, its once-malevolent presence reduced to nothing more than a shriveled husk.
I stumbled back, staring in disbelief. My breathing was ragged, my chest tight with both relief and confusion. What had just happened?
My qi hadn¡¯t purified or strengthened it. It had killed it.
I sank into the chair by the workbench, my mind racing. Was it the nature of my qi? My wood affinity, perhaps? Or my fire affinity? Both elements were known for their cleansing properties, but this reaction felt¡ different. It wasn¡¯t just cleansing. It was rejection.
I noted everything carefully in my encyclopedia; every detail of the experiment. It was crucial; the Bloodsoul Bloom could be counteracted, perhaps even neutralized. But the implications of why it reacted this way to my qi would take time to unravel.
For now, I stared at the lifeless bloom, a mix of triumph and unease settling over me. I was closer to understanding it, but the more I learned, the more questions arose.
"... I need a break."
I glanced over to Tianyi and Windy, seeing them resting peacefully together. It was the longest I''d ever seen her rest. The butterfly-turned-human held the basin containing Windy carefully, cradling his head so he stayed afloat. My face twisted, remembering how close I was to losing them.
They should''ve never faced something like this alone.
I stepped outside, the evening air biting against my skin as the door creaked shut behind me. The hours had slipped away unnoticed, consumed entirely by my experiments. The sky was now streaked with deep purples and greys, the horizon barely holding onto the remnants of daylight. The village felt quieter than usual.
I leaned against the greenhouse, letting out a long, slow breath. My stomach grumbled faintly, a sharp reminder that I hadn¡¯t eaten since morning. I ignored it. The lingering unease from the experiments made the idea of food unappealing. Instead, I allowed myself this brief moment of stillness, my mind sorting through the discoveries of the day.
The Bloodsoul Bloom was unlike anything I¡¯d ever encountered. Malevolent, predatory, and unnatural in every way. It consumed, destroyed, and now, I¡¯d learned, it could be countered¡ªkilled, even. But how? What had my qi done to it that had such a drastic effect?
I tilted my head back, staring at the darkening sky. The weight of responsibility pressed harder against my shoulders. Every answer seemed to open another door of questions, each more daunting than the last. But for now, I had a lead.
The faint sound of hoofbeats broke my train of thought. I straightened, my gaze snapping toward the outskirts of the village. A single rider approached, their horse galloping hard, its breaths visible in the cold air. The jingling of bells marked the man as a messenger. Something urgent.
I didn¡¯t hesitate. Pushing off the wall, I bolted toward the village square, meeting the rider as they pulled up sharply. The man was hunched over, his face pale and slick with sweat. He barely managed to keep his seat as the horse stamped and snorted beneath him.
¡°Are you all right?¡± I asked, steadying the reins and holding the horse still.
The man shook his head, his voice hoarse and ragged. ¡°Verdant Lotus¡ I need¡ I must speak with them.¡±
¡°Calm down,¡± I said, trying to steady his breathing. ¡°They¡¯re still in the village. What¡¯s the message?¡±
He clutched his chest, gasping as though the words themselves pained him. ¡°The¡ªThe Silent Moon¡ they¡ª¡±
An icy dread coiled in my stomach as I heard his words.
173. When The Snow Runs Red
The wind howled through the mountains, a mournful wail that carried snow in thick, blinding waves. The Silent Moon Sect stood cloaked in winter¡¯s grip. White drifts covered the once-pristine stone pathways, and the ornate carvings of moonlit motifs on the buildings were barely discernible beneath layers of frost. The sect felt subdued, muffled by the storm¡¯s relentless assault.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s boots crunched against the snow as he made his way along the outer wall, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. He had taken this patrol shift himself, dismissing the junior disciples who were clearly more interested in the warmth of the barracks than their duties. While understandable, it grated on him. Laxity had no place in the Jianghu, least of all now, when the air itself felt thick with unease.
The wind tugged at his robes, and he adjusted his hood, squinting into the swirling snow. The storm played tricks on the eyes; shadows flitted at the edges of his vision, shapes that vanished the moment he focused. The sentries nearby chatted in low tones, their laughter carrying over the storm¡¯s din. They huddled close to a brazier, their weapons discarded nearby; a dangerous negligence that twisted the stern second-class disciple''s stomach.
His hand tightened on his sword hilt.
''A blade is useless if left sheathed. A mind dulled by complacency cannot sense danger until it¡¯s too late.''
Yet, even as he chastised the sentries silently, he couldn¡¯t deny the weariness that had settled over the sect. The mounting tension between the mainland elders and Sect Leader Jun had taken its toll, fracturing trust and sapping morale. Their growing impatience for war with the Whispering Wind Sect, combined with the dwindling supply of beast cores, had left the sect in a precarious position. They were not unified; they were brittle, and Xu Ziqing feared they would shatter under the weight of their own ambition.
His thoughts drifted to the confined elders¡ªthose that served the sect their whole lives¡ªnow reduced to prisoners within their own home. Their protests against Sect Leader Jun¡¯s ascent to power had been silenced with confinement, an act kept secret to maintain the illusion of strength. But illusion was all it was. The sect¡¯s foundation was crumbling, and he felt it with every strained conversation, every hollow order barked by those scrambling to keep control.
Xu Ziqing paused, his sharp eyes scanning the storm-laden horizon. A flicker of movement caught his attention.
A faint, fleeting shadow.
He narrowed his eyes, but the snow seemed to swallow it whole, leaving nothing but white emptiness. The sentries, oblivious, continued their conversation, the glow of the brazier casting fleeting warmth over their flushed faces.
He opened his mouth to call out to them, but the words died in his throat. A strange sensation gripped him, an icy weight settling in his chest. It wasn¡¯t the cold¡ªit was something far deeper. Instinct.
''Something¡¯s coming.''
The wind howled louder, almost masking the faint crunch of snow that didn¡¯t belong to him or the sentries. Xu Ziqing¡¯s fingers tightened around his sword.
The crunching of snow grew louder, though the sentries seemed deaf to it, their laughter continuing unchecked. The second-class disciple''s grip on his sword tightened as his eyes scanned the shifting whiteness beyond the sect¡¯s walls.
A voice interrupted his focus. "Brother Xu," came a call from behind him. He turned sharply, his narrowed gaze falling on a second-class disciple hurrying toward him, his robes whipping in the storm. The man gave a small bow, though his expression was strained, as if reluctant to be there.
"What is it?" Xu Ziqing asked, his tone curt but controlled.
"The Sect Leader has summoned you," the disciple replied, brushing snow from his sleeves. "He wishes to discuss... the elders'' latest demands."
His jaw tightened. He did not need to ask what the demands entailed. The mainland elders were growing bolder, their frustrations boiling over into open contempt for Sect Leader Jun¡¯s authority. Another fruitless debate awaited him, no doubt.
"And you?" He asked, his eyes narrowing further. "You will take my place?"
The disciple nodded, though his reluctance was evident. "Yes, Senior Brother. I¡¯ll ensure the sentries remain vigilant."
Xu Ziqing¡¯s gaze shifted to the sentries gathered around the brazier. Their postures were slouched, their weapons abandoned in favor of warmth. His expression hardened.
"See that you do," he said sharply, his voice cutting through the storm like a blade. "This storm may obscure the horizon, but it also blinds us to threats. Stay alert. Do not let your guard falter for even a moment."
The second-class disciple winced at the harshness in brother''s tone. "Brother Xu, there¡¯s no need to be so... tense. It¡¯s just a storm. Nothing can approach in weather like this."
Xu Ziqing¡¯s glare silenced him.
"Complacency is the first step toward death," he said coldly. Then, with a final glance at the sentries, he turned on his heel and stalked away, snow crunching beneath his boots.
As he disappeared into the storm, the second-class disciple sighed, shaking his head. "Uptight as ever," he muttered, his voice barely audible over the wind.
One of the sentries smirked, leaning closer to the fire. "He¡¯s always like that. A real kiss-ass to Sect Leader Jun. Probably thinks it¡¯ll get him somewhere."
"Right," another chimed in, laughing. "The man wouldn¡¯t know how to relax if his life depended on it. Bet he¡¯s still tapping that sword hilt of his while talking to the Sect Leader."
Their laughter mingled with the crackle of the brazier, a fleeting moment of levity in the storm¡¯s relentless grip.
But the laughter died as swiftly as it had begun.
The first sentry froze, his eyes widening as he turned toward the storm. "Did you hear that?" he asked, his voice trembling.
"Hear what?" another asked, his tone dismissive.
For a moment, there was only silence. Then, the faintest sound reached them¡ªa wet, crunching noise, different from the wind or snow.
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And then they saw it.
Shadows emerged from the storm, hooded figures moving with eerie precision. They were upon the sentries in moments, their strikes swift and merciless. The snow turned red as bodies fell, the brazier¡¯s light flickering as it was toppled.
The storm swallowed the scene once more, leaving only the red-stained snow as evidence of what had transpired.
SCENE BREAK
Within the stone walls, the storm¡¯s howling was reduced to a muted roar, a distant reminder of the world outside.
Elder Wei leaned against the table, his left hand clutching his side where a bandage peeked out beneath his robes. The wound¡ªinflicted by Whispering Wind Sect¡¯s prodigious first-class disciple, Tian Zhan¡ªthrobbed persistently, a stark reminder of the growing strength of the locals. His face twisted in irritation as he readjusted his posture, masking the pain with a practiced sneer.
¡°An insect managed to sting me,¡± Wei spat, breaking the silence. ¡°A first-class disciple, they say. I would hardly call him that, his power was closer to that of an elder''s. Yet, the fact remains¡ªhe landed a blow. That should never have been possible.¡±
Elder Fang, seated across the room, was meticulously sharpening a jade hairpin. He didn¡¯t look up as he replied, his tone calm but edged with concern. ¡°A troubling development. If even their disciples have reached such heights, we cannot afford to continue underestimating them.¡±
Elder Xun scoffed, crossing his arms over his broad chest, his scars illuminated by the faint glow of enchanted lanterns. ¡°Troubling? It¡¯s infuriating. These backwater cultivators scrape the bottom of the barrel for qi, and yet they manage to keep pace with us? It¡¯s absurd.¡±
¡°They don¡¯t scrape,¡± Fang interjected, finally meeting Xun¡¯s gaze. ¡°They refine. Their methods are born of necessity, honed over generations to make the most of the ambient qi and lack thereof. Efficiency born of scarcity. Meanwhile, our cultivation methods squander resources on the mainland without the thought of efficiency.¡±
The comment struck a chord. Wei¡¯s scowl deepened, his fingers tightening on the edge of the table.
Cheng, the eldest among them, sat in contemplative silence, stroking his beard. ¡°Luck favors the prepared. And the Whispering Wind Sect is preparing for war, whether we like it or not. Each delay strengthens them.¡±
Fang¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line. ¡°Which is why I¡¯ve said it before: Sect Leader Jun¡¯s hesitance is a liability. He basks in his newfound power, oblivious to the narrowing window of opportunity. If we do not act decisively¡ª¡±
¡°You mean to usurp him,¡± Wei interrupted, his voice sharp. ¡°Spare the pretense, Fang. You¡¯ve danced around the idea long enough.¡±
Xun barked a laugh, the sound grating against the tense air. ¡°About time someone said it. Jun is a fool, clinging to scraps of control while we do the real work. Without us, the Silent Moon would crumble.¡±
Cheng raised a hand. ¡°Jun is a fool,¡± he conceded, ¡°but he is also useful. Removing him prematurely could destabilize the sect. We would inherit chaos, not control.¡±
¡°And what do you propose, then? Another round of groveling to this puppet leader while we stagnate?¡±
¡°No,¡± Cheng replied evenly. ¡°We push him to act. Force his hand. The Whispering Wind Sect must fall, and Jun must be made to lead the charge. His ambition blinds him to our manipulation¡ªlet him think it was his idea.¡±
The room fell silent, each elder weighing Cheng¡¯s words. Fang resumed sharpening his jade hairpin, his motions precise and deliberate. ¡°And if he refuses?¡±
Cheng¡¯s expression darkened, his tone like iron. ¡°Then we remind him why he needs us. And if that fails¡¡± He let the unspoken threat hang in the air, a promise that none doubted he could keep.
Within the chamber, the cold quiet was suddenly shattered by a deep, resonant boom. Screams began to echo faintly, footsteps converging rapidly on their location. Elder Wei¡¯s hand instinctively shot to his sword, its surface inscribed with glowing jade patterns that shimmered faintly even in the dim light.
The doors to the elders¡¯ quarters burst open, the sound reverberating like a thunderclap. A wave of biting cold air rushed in, carrying with it the metallic tang of blood and something far worse¡ªa suffocating, malevolent aura that clung to the air like oil.
Figures stepped through the threshold, their forms cloaked in ragged, bloodstained robes. The aura around them crackled with dark energy, twisting the air and casting long, grotesque shadows across the stone floor.
¡°Demonic cultivators,¡± Cheng growled, his voice low and steady despite the tension rippling through his body. ¡°What business do you have here?¡±
They didn''t answer. The cultists moved with a predatory grace, spreading out in an almost coordinated formation, their jagged weapons gleaming ominously. Their silence was unnerving, broken only by the faint sound of their boots scraping against stone.
Elder Xun wasted no time. He slammed his foot against the ground, and a massive ball and chain materialized in a burst of crimson qi, the links rattling as it coiled around him like a serpent. ¡°I¡¯ll handle this filth,¡± he snarled, swinging the weapon in a wide arc. The heavy ball struck the floor with a deafening crash, leaving a deep gouge in the stone.
One of the cultists darted forward, their movements unnaturally fast, but Xun was faster. The ball shot out, its trajectory erratic yet controlled, smashing into the cultist with bone-crushing force. The figure crumpled, their body folding in on itself like brittle paper.
¡°Too easy,¡± Xun muttered, a smirk forming¡ªuntil the cultist¡¯s body convulsed. With a guttural cry, the fallen figure rose again, their broken limbs twisting unnaturally as they lunged forward, undeterred by their injuries.
¡°Praise the Heavenly Demon!¡± the cultist screeched, their voice distorted and filled with unholy fervor.
The words sent a shiver down the elders¡¯ spines. Wei stepped forward, his sword flashing like lightning as he skewered the cultist through the chest. The jade inscriptions flared brilliantly, releasing a burst of qi that disintegrated the figure into ash.
¡°They¡¯re not staying down,¡± Fang said coldly, his spear spinning in his hand as he stepped to Xun¡¯s side. His movements were precise, almost surgical, as he thrust forward, dispatching another cultist with an upward strike that pierced through their skull. Yet even as the body fell, another cultist stepped over it, their movements eerily synchronized.
It was clearly an unrefined attack. There was no sophisticated martial art evident within their attacks. There were no flashy techniques or feints to fool the opponent.
Just like the movements of a wild beast; swing, smash, break.
Wei snarled, the veins in his temple bulging as he channeled his qi into the blade. ¡°Then we make sure they can¡¯t get back up!¡±
Cheng joined the fray with a flick of his wrist, conjuring a shimmering barrier of translucent light that surged outward, slowing the cultists¡¯ advance. His illusionary techniques distorted their perception, causing some to lash out at phantom foes while others stumbled into one another. ¡°Hold them back!¡± Cheng barked.
Another cultist lunged at Xun, their jagged blade slicing through the air. He caught the weapon mid-swing with his bare hand, his immense strength crushing the blade with ease. With a roar, he drove his fist into the cultist¡¯s chest, shattering ribs and piercing flesh. Blood spattered across the stone floor, but the cultist didn¡¯t fall. Instead, they grabbed Xun¡¯s wrist with inhuman strength, their lips curling into a manic grin.
¡°Praise the Heavenly Demon,¡± they rasped, their voice filled with malice.
The cultist¡¯s body convulsed violently, their grip tightening as a burst of dark energy erupted from their chest. Xun stumbled back, his face twisted in pain as the corrosive force seared into his flesh. Blood seeped from the wound on his arm, blackened at the edges, as though the injury itself was tainted by the cultist¡¯s malevolent qi.
Wei surged forward, his sword spinning in a furious arc to intercept another cultist who was already closing in on the wounded elder. The jade inscriptions on the spear flared once more, releasing a wave of concentrated energy that tore through the cultist and sent their mangled body flying into the wall.
But even as the cultist crumpled to the floor, lifeless, two more surged forward, their weapons raised. Wei gritted his teeth, slamming the hilt of his sword into the ground and releasing a shockwave of qi that sent them staggering. ¡°We need to regroup!¡± he barked, glancing back toward the others.
Xun, however, was struggling to recover. The initial injury had slowed him, and that momentary weakness seemed to have emboldened the cultists. They converged on him like a pack of ravenous beasts, their movements erratic yet eerily coordinated. Xun swung his ball and chain in wide arcs, smashing into the first wave and sending bodies flying, but the cultists pressed forward relentlessly, ignoring their injuries.
¡°Get back!¡± He roared, his voice filled with fury as he slammed the ball into the floor, creating a massive crater that cracked the stone beneath their feet. Several cultists were thrown off balance, but it wasn¡¯t enough. One darted in from his blind spot, their blade cutting into his side. Another followed, their weapon finding purchase in his leg. The injuries began to pile up, each one sapping more of his strength.
¡°No!¡± Fang shouted, his spear darting toward the mass of cultists in a desperate attempt to create space. But even as the weapon struck true, impaling one of the attackers, it barely slowed the others. The cultists seemed impervious to pain, their focus singular and unwavering.
Xun let out a guttural roar, his qi surging in a last-ditch effort to push them back. The ball and chain spun faster, tearing through the cultists closest to him, but the momentum was short-lived. One cultist leapt onto his back, driving their blade into his shoulder. Another slammed into his chest, forcing him to the ground.
The others swarmed him, their weapons and claws tearing into his flesh with sickening ferocity. Blood sprayed across the chamber, the metallic scent filling the air as Xun¡¯s roars of defiance turned into gurgled gasps.
His immense strength, his indomitable will¡ªit all meant nothing against the sheer number of enemies willing to sacrifice themselves to bring him down.
By the time the cultists pulled back, Xun¡¯s body was barely recognizable, torn apart in a frenzy of violence. The remaining elders stared in horror, their faces pale and their breaths shallow. They were no strangers to death, but this¡ this was something else. Something monstrous.
Cheng¡¯s voice trembled as he spoke, his composure cracking under the weight of the scene before him. ¡°They¡¯re¡ animals.¡±
Before anyone could respond, one of the cultists stepped forward, their hood falling back to reveal a gaunt, pale face etched with deep scars. They moved with deliberate purpose, reaching down to Xun¡¯s shredded remains. Their hand delved into the bloodied folds of his robe, emerging moments later with a ring glinting faintly in the dim light.
Wei¡¯s eyes widened in recognition. ¡°The storage ring!¡± he hissed, his grip tightening on his spear. ¡°What are they¡ª?¡±
The cultist didn¡¯t hesitate. They placed the ring against their palm and released a surge of dark qi, forcibly breaking the protective seals. Items spilled onto the floor in a chaotic heap¡ªartifacts, talismans, vials of rare elixirs. The cultist ignored most of it, their attention singularly focused.
Then they found it.
A small vial, its crystalline surface shimmering faintly. Within it, an amber liquid glowed softly, radiating an unmistakable aura of vitality and purity.
¡°The Phoenix Tears,¡± Fang whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of the cultists¡¯ fervent murmurs. His face turned ashen as the realization struck him. ¡°They know.¡±
The hooded figure held the vial aloft, their scarred lips curling into a twisted grin.
¡°Praise the Heavenly Demon,¡± they intoned, their voice resonating with chilling reverence. Around them, the other cultists echoed the chant, their fervor reaching a fever pitch.
174. Praise The Heavenly Demon, Shatter The Moon
Xu Ziqing¡¯s boots crunched against the icy debris scattered across the once-pristine pathways. The faint moonlit carvings, symbols of the sect¡¯s pride and history, lay buried beneath layers of frost and ruin. Bodies¡ªfriends, comrades, disciples he had trained alongside¡ªlittered the ground, their lifeless forms twisted and broken. The sect, once an unshakable fortress, now stood as a graveyard.
The storm howled like a dirge, its mournful wails carrying the echoes of screams and clashes still fresh in Xu Ziqing¡¯s ears. He forced himself to keep moving, his hand gripping the hilt of his blade tightly enough that his knuckles turned white. Each step felt heavier than the last, each crunch of snow a painful reminder of the fallen.
The ground beneath his feet trembled, and he flinched instinctively as an explosion shattered the oppressive silence. The central hall, once the heart of the sect, collapsed in a fiery cascade of rubble, sending shards of wood and stone spraying outward. Xu Ziqing¡¯s jaw tightened as his gaze swept the chaos. Amid the destruction, figures darted through the wreckage.
The mainland elders.
They were running.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s breath hitched as he spotted the dark tide surging behind them. Shadows moved with a feral precision, a tide of hooded figures that devoured everything in their path. Weapons glinted in the flickering light, and their eerie silence was more unsettling than any battle cry. They swarmed forward like predators with nothing but death in their wake.
Among the fleeing elders, a figure stumbled.
"Elder Fang..?"
The once-mighty cultivator, a man Xu Ziqing had feared, now moved with a desperate limp. His leg dragged awkwardly behind him, blood staining the snow in uneven streaks. Fang¡¯s face, always a mask of controlled arrogance, was contorted in pain and desperation. He pushed forward, his every step a struggle as the shadows closed in.
"Wait!" Fang¡¯s voice rang out, trembling with fear and anger. ¡°Help me!¡±
Wei and Cheng, the other two mainland elders, were just ahead. They turned at the sound of his voice, their eyes meeting his for a brief moment. Xu Ziqing couldn¡¯t hear their reply. If there was one. But their actions spoke louder than words.
Neither elder slowed. Neither offered a hand. They simply turned and continued running, their forms disappearing into the storm.
The betrayal was written plainly across Fang¡¯s face. For a fleeting moment, disbelief and fury warred in his expression. His lips parted as though to shout again, but no words came. Instead, his eyes hardened, his grip on his weapon tightening as he stopped and turned to face the oncoming horde. His shoulders squared, though his body trembled from exertion and pain.
Xu Ziqing couldn¡¯t look away. Fang, the man who had once brought he and Ping Hai to their knees with sheer killing intent, now stood alone against the tide. It should have been a moment of defiance, a last stand worthy of legend. But what he saw in Fang¡¯s eyes wasn¡¯t courage.
It was fear.
Elder Fang planted his spear into the snow with a deliberate motion, the weapon glowing with a cold, pale light as he channeled his qi into it. The storm seemed to part around him, the snowflakes slowing as though held in suspended animation.
With a guttural roar, the elder swung the weapon in a wide arc, releasing a wave of qi that ripped through the oncoming horde. The front line of cultists disintegrated, their forms collapsing into ash and ichor that stained the snow black. For an instant, the battlefield fell eerily silent, save for the faint hum of Fang¡¯s spear.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s breath caught. This was the power that had made Elder Fang a figure of awe and terror¡ªa force so overwhelming that put him among the ranks of sect leaders. But even as the wave of destruction faded, the shadows pressed forward. The cultists stepped over the remains of their fallen with a single-minded determination.
Fang swung his spear again, the tip carving through the air with an audible crack. Another cultist fell, their body torn apart by the elder¡¯s precision strike. Yet, as the tide surged closer, their tactics shifted. Instead of attacking directly, the cultists began to lunge at his weapon, grabbing at the spear¡¯s shaft with clawed hands. Fang¡¯s strikes became slower, his movements more labored as each swing was met with resistance.
¡°Get off!¡± he snarled, his voice raw with desperation. He shook his spear violently, dislodging the cultists clinging to it, but their numbers were too great. Each moment he spent shaking them off allowed more to close the distance.
Fang staggered, his injured leg buckling under the strain. His breaths came in ragged gasps, the frost clinging to his lips as he struggled to keep his footing. Blood seeped through the torn fabric of his robes, staining the snow beneath him in vivid crimson.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s stomach churned. Even now, the man''s immense power was undeniable, yet it wasn¡¯t enough. The cultists were unrelenting, their lack of fear and disregard for their own lives rendering Fang¡¯s attacks increasingly futile. One grabbed the shaft of his spear, then another, slowing its momentum just enough for a blade to slice through his side. Fang roared in pain, pulling back and impaling his attacker, but the opening had already been created.
They swarmed him.
"Ah! AHHHHH!"
Blades and claws tore into his flesh, ripping through muscle and sinew with sickening ease. Fang¡¯s screams echoed across the battlefield, a sound that clawed at Xu Ziqing¡¯s resolve.
The snow turned dark and heavy with blood, the storm carrying the metallic scent through the air.
And then, silence.
The cultists straightened, their forms dark and alien against the snow. One of them bent down, retrieving a ring from the corpse.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s heart pounded as his mind raced. He forced himself to move, sprinting through the wreckage with renewed urgency. His knuckles ached from how tightly he gripped his sword, but he didn¡¯t care. The mainland elders were gone. The sect was in ruins. If he didn¡¯t act now, there would be nothing left to save.
His gaze darted across the battlefield, locking onto a familiar figure huddled against the remnants of a crumbled pavilion.
"Yuan Ming!¡±
The young man flinched, his sword trembling in his grip. His usually confident expression was replaced by wide, hollow eyes. He didn¡¯t respond, his focus fixed on the blood-streaked snow beneath him.
Xu Ziqing reached him in a few quick strides and grabbed his shoulder, shaking him firmly. ¡°Yuan Ming, look at me!¡±
The disciple blinked, his gaze snapping to Xu Ziqing¡¯s face. ¡°S-Senior Brother Xu¡ I¡ªI can¡¯t¡ª¡±
¡°There¡¯s no time for this!¡± Xu Ziqing snapped, his voice cutting through the storm. ¡°We¡¯re going to free the elders. Without them, we have no chance.¡±
Yuan Ming¡¯s face twisted in confusion. ¡°The elders? But¡ Sect Leader Jun¡ªhe wouldn¡¯t¡ª¡±
¡°To hell with Jun¡¯s orders! If we don¡¯t act now, there won¡¯t be a sect left to protect. Do you understand me?¡±
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Yuan Ming hesitated, his breathing shallow and uneven. Xu Ziqing gripped his shoulder tighter, his voice softening slightly. ¡°The sect needs you. Get up.¡±
The younger disciple swallowed hard, nodding shakily. ¡°A-All right. I¡¯m with you.¡±
¡°Good.¡± Xu Ziqing hauled him to his feet, sparing only a moment to steady him before setting off at a sprint. ¡°We¡¯ll gather anyone we see along the way.¡±
As they moved through the ruins of the sect, his eyes scanned the wreckage for other survivors. By the time they reached the elders¡¯ quarters, they had gathered a dozen disciples. A few of the senior disciples split up in order to gather more people. Most bore injuries or expressions of raw fear, but they followed nonetheless.
The elders¡¯ quarters were cold and dark, the heavy doors sealed but unguarded. Xu Ziqing drew his blade, the metal glinting faintly in the dim light. Tradition dictated that these elders remain confined for opposing Sect Leader Jun''s rise to power. But tradition had no place here. Not now.
He smashed the hilt of his sword against the lock of the first door, the echo reverberating through the corridor. With a loud crack, the mechanism gave way, and the door creaked open to reveal an elder seated on a worn mat. His eyes, once sharp and commanding, were wide with disbelief.
¡°Disciple Xu?¡± the elder asked. ¡°What madness is this? What¡¯s happening outside?¡±
¡°The sect is under siege,¡± Xu Ziqing said, his tone clipped and urgent. ¡°There¡¯s no time to explain. The disciples need help.¡±
The elder rose slowly, his movements stiff from confinement. ¡°By the heavens¡¡± he murmured. ¡°I heard the sounds but thought¡ª¡± His words faltered as he met Xu Ziqing¡¯s gaze. ¡°The Silent Moon is being attacked? By whom?¡±
¡°Monsters.¡±
The elder''s jaw tightened. ¡°Then let¡¯s not waste any more time.¡±
Xu Ziqing nodded sharply and moved to the next door. The other disciples did the same, freeing the confined elders and explained the situation.
When the last elder joined them, the group stood in tense silence for a moment, their breaths visible in the cold air. Though gaunt and weathered, their presence carried a weight that reminded Xu Ziqing of the Silent Moon¡¯s former glory. These were not broken men; they were leaders who had been waiting for the chance to prove their worth again.
¡°We move now,¡± He said firmly, leading the group into the storm.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s pace quickened as he neared the destroyed dining hall. Inside, the heavy air was thick with the scent of stale blood and lingering smoke. Scattered tables and benches were overturned, and the dim light from a half-burned lantern cast long, flickering shadows across the walls.
At the far corner of the room, a familiar figure sat slumped against the wall¡ªPing Hai. His hulking frame, which usually radiated confidence, was curled in on itself. His head was buried in his arms, and his shoulders trembled. Around him, a handful of third-class disciples sat in silence, their eyes wide with shock.
¡°Ping Hai!¡± Xu Ziqing barked, striding across the room.
The large disciple flinched, his head snapping up. His face was pale, his eyes red-rimmed and unfocused. ¡°S-Senior Brother¡¡± he stammered, his voice barely audible.
¡°Get up,¡± Xu Ziqing said sharply, gripping the front of Ping Hai¡¯s robes and hauling him to his feet. ¡°We don¡¯t have time for this.¡±
¡°I¡ª¡± His voice broke. He looked away, his hands trembling. ¡°I¡¯m not ready for this, Senior Brother. I can¡¯t¡¡±
Xu Ziqing shook him once, hard. ¡°None of us were ready for this!¡± he snapped. ¡°But hiding here won¡¯t save anyone. Look around you.¡±
Ping Hai¡¯s gaze flicked to the younger disciples huddled nearby. Slowly, the trembling in his hands subsided. He swallowed hard and gave a faint nod.
¡°What do you need me to do?¡± he asked, his voice steadier now.
Xu Ziqing released him and stepped back. ¡°Find the injured and anyone still alive. Escort them to Crescent Bay City and call for reinforcements. The elders and I will hold the line.¡±
Ping Hai hesitated, his eyes searching the second-class disciple''s face. ¡°You should come with us, Senior Brother. You¡¯re more¡ª¡±
¡°No.¡± His tone left no room for argument. ¡°My place is here. The elders and I will buy you time to retreat.¡±
¡°Senior Brother¡¡± Ping Hai¡¯s voice wavered, but Xu Ziqing cut him off with a sharp glare.
¡°This is an order.¡±
¡°...Understood.¡±
Xu Ziqing turned to the other disciples in the hall, his voice rising to command their attention. ¡°All of you, listen! Follow Ping Hai and retreat to Crescent Bay City. Help him find the injured and the stragglers. Do not stop until you¡¯re safe.¡±
The faint crunch of snow under hurried footsteps drew his attention, and he turned to see the disciples who had split off earlier converging toward him. Behind them came dozens more¡ªa scattered, disheveled group.
¡°Senior Brother Xu!¡± one of the returning disciples called out, his voice strained but resolute. ¡°We found more!¡±
Most were third-class disciples. Among them were a few second-class disciples, their faces hardened but their eyes betraying the same fear that gripped everyone present.
¡°Form up!¡± Xu Ziqing barked, his voice carrying above the howling wind.
The group obeyed with a mix of hesitation and urgency, clustering together for warmth and reassurance. The elders moved to the front of the formation, their presence a steadying force amid the chaos. Xu Ziqing¡¯s sharp eyes tracked the movements of each disciple, assessing their state. Some stood firm, their grips tight on their weapons, while others faltered, their gazes fixed on the ground as though afraid to meet his.
Ping Hai stepped forward, his large frame now carrying an air of purpose despite the earlier faltering. ¡°Senior Brother,¡± he said quietly, ¡°there are more out there, but we don¡¯t have time to find them all.¡±
Xu Ziqing nodded grimly. ¡°Then we focus on saving those who are here.¡±
He turned back to the gathered disciples. ¡°Listen carefully!¡± His voice cut through the storm, sharp and commanding. ¡°The third-class disciples will retreat immediately, led by Ping Hai. Second-class disciples¡ªthose of you willing to protect them¡ªjoin him. Get to Crescent Bay City. Find reinforcements. The rest of us will stay and hold the line.¡±
Each order Xu Ziqing barked was a tether to sanity, a way to keep moving forward when every instinct screamed to stop, to hide, to grieve. The disciples looked to him with wide, fearful eyes, and he forced himself to meet their gazes, knowing he had to be the pillar they needed; even if his own foundation was cracking.
The announcement sparked murmurs among the group. Some third-class disciples immediately shifted toward Ping Hai, relief mingling with guilt on their faces. Among the second-class disciples, a clear divide began to emerge. Half moved to join the retreating group, their expressions a mixture of shame and fear. The others remained rooted, their jaws set with grim determination.
Xu Ziqing scanned their faces. Those who stepped back were avoiding his gaze, their shoulders hunched under the weight of unspoken words. He couldn¡¯t bring himself to judge them. Fear was a powerful force. One he himself had struggled against.
¡°Go,¡± Xu Ziqing said quietly, his voice losing some of its sharp edge. ¡°Protect them. That¡¯s your duty now.¡±
The departing disciples nodded, their steps hurried as they began to move away. Ping Hai led them, his voice rising above the wind as he barked orders to keep the group organized. Xu Ziqing watched them go, a knot forming in his chest.
He turned back to the remaining disciples and elders, their number now halved. Those who stayed exchanged glances, their expressions tight with resolve. They had seen the carnage firsthand, had felt the oppressive fear of the cultists¡¯ presence. Yet they stood.
The group pressed forward in tense silence, their collective dread palpable as they navigated the battered sect grounds. The path ahead was clear¡ªmarked by a trail of carnage. Lifeless bodies lay strewn across the snow, their blood soaking into the ground.
Xu Ziqing led the way, his blade drawn, its cold steel catching the faint light of the storm. The elders moved to the front, their forms imposing despite the wear of confinement. Behind them, the first-class disciples held steady, their weapons raised and their faces set in grim determination. The second-class disciples flanked the group, their steps uneven as they cast nervous glances at the wreckage around them.
The wind howled, carrying with it the faint metallic tang of blood and the acrid stench of smoke. Xu Ziqing¡¯s grip on his sword tightened as they neared the central courtyard. The remnants of their attackers stood there; twenty figures cloaked in black, their presence as unnatural as the storm that raged around them. They moved with an eerie stillness, as though the wind itself bent around them in deference. At their center, the gaunt figure worked with deliberate precision, an incense burner in his hands releasing thick, pungent smoke that mingled with the swirling snow.
The Silent Moon forces halted as one. Xu Ziqing felt his breath catch, his legs refusing to move forward. Even though they outnumbered the hooded figures, it was as though an invisible wall had risen before them, a barrier of raw fear that sapped their strength and resolve. His chest tightened, his pulse hammering in his ears as he stared at the figures ahead. The memories of Elder Fang¡¯s death flashed before his eyes; his raw screams, the blood-soaked snow, the cultists¡¯ unrelenting advance even in the face of death.
''We can¡¯t win. Not against that.''
Around him, the disciples faltered. Their gazes darted between the cultists and the ground, some unable to look forward at all. Their breathing came in uneven gasps, their hands trembling as they clutched their weapons. The elders, though more composed, seemed uneasy as well.
But there was a difference. The elders didn¡¯t have the same hollow look of terror in their eyes. They hadn¡¯t been there to witness the carnage firsthand. They hadn¡¯t seen Elder Fang¡¯s final stand or the initial assault that carved through their defenses with ease.
Xu Ziqing couldn¡¯t even muster anger. No righteous fury, no defiant rage¡ªjust cold, unrelenting fear.
The hooded figures, for their part, paid no attention to the Silent Moon forces. Their leader continued the ritual, the blood-red pill glowing faintly as it was consumed by the flames. The serpentine mist that emerged writhed and coiled with unnatural purpose, its crimson-and-black form cutting through the air like a living thing. The cultists watched in reverence, their heads bowed, their stillness unnerving.
The Silent Moon forces remained frozen, their formation breaking as disciples hesitated or stepped back. Xu Ziqing¡¯s breath quickened. His grip on his sword tightened, his knuckles aching, but he couldn¡¯t bring himself to step forward.
Suddenly, a figure moved. One of the elders, his sword drawn and his face twisted with anger and grief, broke from the formation. Without hesitation, he strode forward, his blade glinting as he raised it high. ¡°For the Silent Moon!¡± he bellowed, his voice cracking as he charged.
¡°No!¡± Xu Ziqing¡¯s voice tore from his throat, raw with panic. But it was too late.
The elder¡¯s sword descended with a resounding slash, carving into the nearest cultist¡¯s turned back. The force of the blow split flesh and bone, sending dark blood spraying across the snow. For a fleeting moment, the elder¡¯s attack seemed victorious.
But the cultist barely reacted. He turned slowly, his expression one of annoyance rather than pain. The injury on his shoulder bled freely, yet he moved as though it didn¡¯t exist. His hand shot out, gripping the elder by the neck with inhuman strength.
The elder gasped, his blade falling from his grasp as he struggled against the iron grip. He slashed wildly with his free hand, but the cultist didn¡¯t so much as flinch. His voice, low and guttural, cut through the storm. ¡°Profane infidel,¡± he sneered. ¡°You are unworthy of life. Death is the only end for those who oppose the cult.¡±
The Silent Moon forces watched in horror, their terror solidifying into stone. Xu Ziqing¡¯s heart pounded in his chest, every instinct screaming at him to move, to help¡ªbut he couldn¡¯t. His legs wouldn¡¯t obey, his fear anchoring him to the ground.
With a sickening crunch, the cultist crushed the elder¡¯s neck, silencing his gasps. His lifeless body fell to the snow, his face frozen in a mixture of shock and pain. The sound of his death echoed across the battlefield, a final, hollow punctuation to the sect¡¯s despair.
The disciples flinched as the cultists who stepped forward prepared to advance. Their leader¡¯s voice cut through the tension, sharp and commanding. ¡°Enough. There is no time to spend indulging these remnants. Our mission is clear, and we must gather the Phoenix Tears at all costs.¡±
The advancing cultists froze, then knelt, smashing their foreheads to the bloodied snow.
¡°Forgive this lowly servant, Envoy!¡± they shouted, their voices hollow yet fervent. They remained motionless, even as blood pooled beneath them, a self-inflicted penance for their disobedience.
The Envoy turned, his scarred face staring solemnly at the Silent Moon forces.
¡°You will die soon enough,¡± he said, his tone dripping with disdain. ¡°But your existence is meaningless to us now. Do not mistake this reprieve for mercy.¡±
The serpentine mist twisted, forming a path deeper into the storm. The cultists rose, their movements synchronized and precise. They disappeared into the snow, their retreat leaving only silence in their wake.
Xu Ziqing¡¯s legs finally gave out, and he sank to his knees, his breath coming in shallow, ragged gasps. Around him, the Silent Moon forces stood rooted, their fear palpable even as the storm swallowed the cultists¡¯ figures. For a moment, none dared speak or move.
The sect was in ruins. Their victory was no victory at all¡ªjust the hollow aftermath of terror.