《[BL] Streams of Fate: Rivers of Remembrance》 Chapter 1: The Unseen Ripples Emerging from the lake, the water cascaded off his body in shimmering streams, tracing the lines of his form. His silver, wet hair slicked back naturally, accentuating his sharp features. Droplets glistened on his skin, catching the light and sparkling like scattered jewels. Each step he took sent ripples radiating outwards, disturbing the otherwise calm surface of the lake. The water accentuated every corner of his physique as the waterline receded from his chest to his waist, each movement precise and with unhurried elegance. His feet, now free from the lake¡¯s embrace, left delicate imprints on the sandy shore. He paused for a moment, water dripping from his fingertips, his breath steady but deep, as if savoring the transition from the cool depths to the warmth of the sunlit earth. The scene exuded a sense of tranquility, a piece of time frozen. But the peace was subtly disturbed by the rustling of leaves, the soft whisper of the wind threading through the branches. The gentle sound of leaves brushing against each other broke the stillness. Alert, he swiftly dawned on his robes and grabbed his sword. Wen Yuxuan tensed, his muscles coiling like a spring ready to unleash. His striking blue eyes, previously soft with contemplation, sharpened and darted, scanning the environment with acute awareness. His gaze, vivid and deep, drew you in like the calm, endless expanse of the ocean. The rustling of leaves grew more pronounced, each sound now carrying a weight of potential threat. His ears perked up, straining to catch any irregularity in the natural symphony. His breathing slowed, becoming almost imperceptible, as he focused all his senses outward. Instinctively, his hand moved to his sword, fingers brushing the familiar grip, ready to draw at a moment¡¯s notice. Every detail in his surroundings became vivid, every shadow and movement scrutinized. The peaceful aura that had enveloped him moments before was replaced by a heightened state of alertness. Emerging from the trees, Wang Anran appeared with his raven-black hair softly moving in the breeze, his deep brown eyes so dark they looked almost black. His tall, muscular frame emanated a powerful, grounded presence. Yuxuan locked gaze with the unknown man in front of him. His own eyes surrounded by dark lashes, making his blue irises seemed as if framed like precious jewels. Every glance from him felt meaningful, carrying a depth of emotion and thought that words could seldom convey. Anran took a step forward, his eyes never leaving Yuxuan. There was a strange sense of familiarity with his presence, something that tugged at the edges of his fragmented memories. "Are you the one that brought me here?" Anran asked, his voice tinged with confusion and a trace of hope. Yuxuan being tempered by caution, although confused he remained alert. He studied Anran for a moment longer, noting the slight confusion etched on his face. ¡°No. My name is Wen Yuxuan, a disciple of the Vermilion Bird Sect.¡± You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. ¡°Where am I?¡± Anran asked, noticing Yuxuan seemed open to sharing information yet maintaining an air of caution. ¡°You are in the Verdant Forest, near the Lake of Serenity,¡± Yuxuan responded, his demeanor calm yet guarded. Anran¡¯s gaze swept across the surroundings, his brow furrowing as he tried to piece together his fragmented memories. The names Yuxuan mentioned sparked no recognition, amplifying his disorientation. He scanned around, searching for a familiar detail to anchor his thoughts. The environment was a paradox, eerily quiet yet alive with subtle, indiscernible sounds. Towering trees swayed gently, their branches weaving a canopy of green and gold that cast dappled shadows on the forest floor. Birds chirped from hidden perches, their calls echoing like distant memories, while the rustle of leaves whispered secrets he could not grasp. The air was thick with the earthy scent of moss and damp soil, punctuated by the fresh, sharp aroma of pine. Anran¡¯s eyes darted from one unfamiliar detail to another, seeking something¡ªanything¡ªthat might spark a sliver of recognition. Yet, the more he looked, the more the forest seemed like an intricate puzzle, each piece more confounding than the last. A wave of panic surged within him, intertwining with his frustration. His heart thrummed against his chest, its beats mirroring the throbbing in his head. He closed his eyes momentarily, hoping for solace in the darkness, but found none. Instead, the void intensified his feeling of being utterly lost. Yuxuan observed Anran with a blend of concern and caution. ¡°You remember nothing at all? Not even your name?¡± he asked gently. Anran grappled with the fleeting shadows of his past, each one slipping through his fingers like grains of sand. Names, faces, and events danced on the edge of his consciousness, tantalizingly close yet frustratingly out of reach. His mind felt like a labyrinth with no exit, every turn deepening his confusion, each attempt to focus sending pangs of pain through his head. Amidst this fog of uncertainty, a dull ache pulsed at his temples, growing with each heartbeat into a relentless throb that consumed his senses. The pain was pervasive, a suffocating weight that clouded his thoughts and heightened his sense of isolation. Opening his eyes slowly, Anran felt the fog of confusion swirling in his mind. Amidst the chaos, he locked onto Yuxuan¡¯s steady gaze, a piercing look that seemed to be the only anchor in his sea of confusion. There was something grounding in Yuxuan¡¯s eyes, something familiar and reassuring. ¡°No, I remember my name¡­ Wang Anran,¡± he said, his voice shaky but determined, clinging desperately to this lone certainty amidst the whirlwind of uncertainty that threatened to engulf him. Yuxuan¡¯s face softened, though caution still lingered in his eyes. He took a step forward, keeping a respectful distance. ¡°You¡¯re in a troubling predicament, lost in these woods with no memory of how you arrived. I invite you to come with me to my sect; perhaps we can assist you in rediscovering your past.¡± He let his words sink in. ¡°With our resources and knowledge, we can help you understand the circumstances that brought you here. There may be answers waiting for you, and we can provide the support you need during this time.¡± Anran processed Yuxuan¡¯s words, the gravity of his situation slowly sinking in. A glimmer of hope sparked within him at the possibility of reclaiming his lost memories. He nodded slightly, the decision weighing heavily on him but driven by a desperate need to understand his own story. "Thank you, W¨¥n Yuxuan. I will come with you." Yuxuan gave a slight nod, his features softening just imperceptibly¡ªa subtle indication of approval. "Very well. Let¡¯s depart for the Vermilion Bird Sect. It¡¯s safer there, and we will find the answers you seek.¡± With that, they began their journey together, the tranquility of the forest slowly enveloping them once more. The rustling leaves and the gentle wind provided a soothing backdrop as they took their first steps towards uncovering the mysteries that lay buried in Anran''s forgotten past. Chapter 2: Arrival at the Vermillion Bird Sect As Yuxuan and Anran approached the Vermillion Bird Sect, the imposing entrance nestled at the base of a towering cliff came into view. The pathway leading to the sect was flanked by ancient trees, their branches arching gracefully overhead, forming a natural canopy that dappled the ground with shifting patterns of light and shadow. The air was cool and filled with the scent of pine and blooming wildflowers, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasted sharply with the turmoil in Anran¡¯s heart. The entrance itself was a marvel of traditional East Asian architecture. The blue-tiled roof of the modest yet elegant building shimmered under the sunlight, each tile meticulously placed to form intricate patterns that told stories of the sect¡¯s storied past. The wooden frame, darkened by time and the elements, bore the weight of countless generations of wisdom and tradition. The entrance was elevated, accessible by a set of wide, softly lit steps that seemed to glow warmly in the misty ambiance. At the base of these stairs, two intricately carved stone statues stand as silent guardians, adding a sense of grandeur and protection. These statues are representations of mythical birds, specifically vermillion birds. Each statue stood on a sturdy, decorative base that features swirling patterns and traditional motifs, enhancing their majestic appearance. Painted in a rich, deep red color, the statues symbolized power and prosperity, drawing attention to the fine craftsmanship. This vibrant hue contrasted beautifully with the more subdued background, making the statues stand out as focal points. Flanking the path and stairs are carefully pruned trees, their twisted and graceful forms creating a natural, harmonious frame for the entrance. Lanterns on either side emit a gentle light, further enhancing the peaceful and welcoming aura. The surrounding landscape is lush with greenery and small shrubs, meticulously maintained to reflect a sense of order and natural beauty. The entire scene is enveloped in a light mist, adding an ethereal quality to the environment. The imposing cliffs in the background rose dramatically, emphasizing the seclusion and sanctity of this tranquil retreat. As they ascended the stairs and approaches the entrance, the sense of stepping into a sacred, timeless space becomes ever more pronounced, offering a moment of calm and reflection amidst the natural beauty. ¡°Anran, this is the main building for our Vermillion Bird Sect, the Crimson Feather Pavilion,¡± Yuxuan introduced, his voice carrying a note of pride. As they near the Crimson Feather Pavilion, the sight of the magnificent pavilion is nothing short of breathtaking. The building itself is an architectural marvel with intricate wooden carvings and multiple tiered roofs that curve gracefully upwards, each tier more elaborate than the last. The entire structure is bathed in a warm, golden light that emanates from within, creating a welcoming and almost ethereal glow. The entrance to the pavilion was a wide, stately staircase that is flanked by ornate lanterns, their soft light guiding the way. At the base of the stairs, the path was bordered by low stone railings, adding to the sense of grandeur and importance of the pavilion. The mist rising from the surrounding water adds a mystical aura, making the pavilion appear as though it is floating on clouds. Surrounding the Crimson Feather Pavilion were smaller pavilions, each mirroring the intricate design of the main structure. These pavilions were connected by a series of walkways and bridges that extend over tranquil waters, enhancing the serene and majestic ambiance of the place. Tall, ancient trees with lanterns hanging from their branches provide a natural frame, blending harmoniously with the architectural beauty. As they continue up the stairs, the details of the carvings and decorations become more apparent, each telling stories of history and culture. The entrance to the hall was grand, with large wooden doors intricately adorned, inviting visitors into the sanctum beyond. The overall atmosphere is one of awe and reverence, with every element designed to create a sense of wonder and peace. Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Upon entering the grand hall, the sense of opulence and meticulous craftsmanship was immediately apparent. The hall was spacious and open, with a high, vaulted ceiling supported by large, intricately carved wooden pillars. Each pillar was adorned with detailed engravings and gold accents, reflecting the soft, natural light filtering in from the outside. The floor was made of polished stone tiles, arranged in elaborate patterns that guided the eye toward the focal point of the hall¡ªa majestic throne. This throne was an impressive piece, elevated on a small platform and framed by additional ornate carvings and golden decorations. Its design was both regal and artistic, featuring intricate motifs and a commanding presence. The hall was illuminated by the abundant natural light streaming in through large windows and open spaces on either side. This light bathed the interior in a soft, ethereal glow, highlighting the rich colors and intricate details of the woodwork. The absence of artificial lighting allowed the true beauty of the materials and craftsmanship to shine. The large windows and open spaces offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, seamlessly blending the interior and exterior environments. The mist from outside created a mystical haze that drifted into the hall, adding to its ethereal quality and enhancing the serene atmosphere. The air carried the subtle scent of fresh mountain air, further contributing to the tranquil and reverent ambiance. The combination of exquisite craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and serene natural lighting made this hall a place of both beauty and solemnity, designed to inspire awe and respect. As they entered, Yuxuan stepped forward, his posture straight and respectful as he approached Liang Ronghuo. The morning light filtered through the high windows of the chamber, casting elongated shadows across the polished stone floor. The chamber itself was a marvel of craftsmanship, with walls adorned with intricate murals depicting the legendary vermilion bird soaring majestically over ancient landscapes. The air was thick with the scent of incense, lending a sacred and solemn atmosphere to the room. Pausing a respectful distance away, Yuxuan performed the traditional fist wrapped salute, his right fist enclosed gently in his open left palm, held in front of his chest. His expression was solemn, yet there was a hint of urgency in his eyes. Liang Ronghuo, seated upon a high-backed wooden chair adorned with intricate carvings of the vermillion bird ¡ª the emblem of their sect ¡ª nodded slightly in acknowledgment. His eyes, sharp and discerning, seemed to pierce through the formalities, seeking the heart of Yuxuan¡¯s report. ¡°Greeting Sect Leader,¡± Yuxuan began, his voice steady but carrying a weight of significance. ¡°I have made my way back from the appointed mission,¡± he continued, maintaining the salute as a sign of deep respect for his leader''s authority and wisdom. The journey had been long and arduous, but he felt a renewed sense of purpose standing in the presence of his revered leader. Liang Ronghuo nodded slightly in acknowledgment. His eyes, sharp and discerning, seemed to pierce through the formalities, seeking the heart of Yuxuan¡¯s report. ¡°On my journey, I encountered a man by the name of Wang Anran,¡± Yuxuan continued, lowering his hands but keeping his posture straight. ¡°It appears he has lost his memories. Considering his confused state and potential vulnerabilities, I suggested he rest at our sect. I believe he may benefit from our protection and possibly assist in piecing together his lost past.¡± Liang Ronghuo¡¯s gaze softened slightly, intrigued by the mention of Wang Anran. ¡°Wang Anran, you say?¡± he mused, stroking his beard thoughtfully. ¡°A curious case indeed. It is not often that one comes across a lost soul with such a clouded memory. Your decision shows foresight, Yuxuan. We shall see to his needs and observe if his presence here might serve a greater purpose.¡± ¡°Thank you, Sect Leader. I shall take personal responsibility for his integration and recovery,¡± Yuxuan affirmed, a sense of duty resonating in his voice. He knew the implications of bringing an outsider into their fold, especially one shrouded in mystery. But his instincts told him that Wang Anran was no ordinary wanderer. ¡°Very well,¡± Liang Ronghuo concluded, giving a nod of approval. ¡°Keep me informed of his progress.¡± As Yuxuan turned to leave, he could not help but reflect on the events that had led him here. His thoughts wandered back to the moment he first encountered Wang Anran, alone and disoriented in the wilderness. The memory of Anran¡¯s haunted eyes, filled with a mixture of confusion and despair, tugged at Yuxuan¡¯s heart. He felt a deep responsibility to help Anran, not just as a disciple of the Vermillion Bird Sect, but as a fellow human being seeking solace and understanding. Chapter 3: Beginnings Yuxuan, having assumed responsibility for Anran¡¯s integration and recovery, led him to the outer sect. The outer sect was a world away from the opulence of the inner sanctum. Here, the architecture was simplistic, characterized by plain wooden structures and communal spaces that supported a rigorous but equitable training environment. Anran found himself assigned to a small, sparsely furnished room that he would share with another novice who was currently out doing the assigned tasks of an outer disciple. ¡°I will be your guide and mentor from today,¡± Yuxuan announced with a calm authority that both comforted and commanded respect. Anran, still adjusting to his new surroundings, responded with gratitude, ¡°Thank you, Yuxuan, for your help,¡± his voice imbued with a softness born of relief and deference. After ensuring Anran was settled, Yuxuan retired to his quarters for the night. Later, Anran¡¯s roommate returned from his duties and introduced himself as Lin Feng Ming. Feng Ming with his short, tousled green hair that framed his face. His light brown eyes were soft and contemplative, exuded a natural and rustic charm. His gaze, gentle yet fleeting, rarely met others for long, hinting at an introverted nature. His expressions were subtle, with slight smiles and nods sufficing where others might use words. He carried himself with a reserved demeanour, but despite this, there was an aura of quiet confidence about him. ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Lin Feng Ming. Looks like we¡¯ll be sharing this room,¡± he introduced himself with a tentative smile and a handshake. ¡°Anran. Nice to meet you,¡± Anran replied, shaking his hand. At the crack of dawn the next morning, Feng Ming guided Anran through the communal exercises, demonstrating the sect¡¯s disciplined harmony. The early morning air was crisp and cool, the sun just beginning to rise over the horizon, casting a golden hue over the training grounds. Disciples of all ages moved in unison, their movements were precise and collective that seemed to welcome the rising sun above them. ¡°Keep your back straight and breathe steadily,¡± Feng Ming advised as they went through the morning exercises. Anran, feeling his muscles stretch and warm, mirrored Feng Ming¡¯s motions attentively. Their days were filled with lessons on the foundational principles of qi and its importance in cultivation under the strict guidance of a white-bearded elder. Anran listened intently, absorbing every word. Afternoons were reserved on chores like fetching water from the nearby river and tending to the gardens. Despite the physical demands, Anran discovered a strange sense of peace in the rhythmic routine. The scent of fresh earth and the vibrant colours of blooming flowers created a calming environment and soothing his spirit. However, Anran couldn¡¯t escape the envious whispers of other disciples, questioning the special attention he received from Yuxuan since he had not entered through the usual rigorous entrance exam. Many felt that he was unworthy of Yuxuan¡¯s tutelage. ¡°Why does he get special treatment?¡± one disciple whispered to another, unaware of the complexities of Anran¡¯s past. ¡°He didn¡¯t even pass the entrance exam.¡± This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. ¡°Must be nice to have connections,¡± another murmured, casting a disdainful glance at Anran. The whispers of the other disciples had no effect on Anran, as he looked forward to his training sessions with Yuxuan. Yuxuan was his only anchor, the first person he met since his amnesia. During their initial training in a secluded clearing, Yuxuan¡¯s teaching style was both nurturing and stringent. The distant sounds of the sect activities faded as Yuxuan¡¯s presence provided a steady reassurance. ¡°Close your eyes and focus inward,¡± Yuxuan instructed. ¡°Feel the energy within you and guide it towards the first point, the Conception Vessel.¡± Anran closed his eyes and took a deep breath, trying to feel the flow of energy within his body. His qi listened to his commands and tried to flow to the first point, the Conception Vessel. This meridian, which runs along the front of the body, is crucial in the initial stages of cultivation as it helps regulate the body¡¯s qi and connects various other meridians. Opening and strengthening the Conception Vessel is often seen as the first step toward achieving a balance of energy within the body, allowing the cultivator to effectively gather, circulate, and control Qi. This process is essential for moving on to higher levels of cultivation and accessing more advanced techniques and powers. However, Anran¡¯s qi behaved erratically, surging and waning in ways that perplexed even Yuxuan. The Qi within his meridians seemed to be also filled with impurities, which usually indicates that something is causing his qi flow to be blocked or that he has a weak foundation. But in Anran¡¯s case, the flow itself seems to not be able to reach the Conception Vessel, as if it were being sucked away, which was odd. Yuxuan found this anomaly troubling. ¡°It¡¯s like his energy is fighting against itself,¡± he thought, frowning. Despite Anran¡¯s evident potential, something was clearly amiss with his cultivation process. Not fully understanding the peculiar phenomenon affecting Anran, Yuxuan decided to pause their session, concerned yet determined to unravel the mystery. ¡°Let¡¯s stop here for today,¡± he said, masking his worry with a measured tone. ¡°We¡¯ll continue to work on this.¡± That night, maybe due to the cultivation triggering something Anran started to be plagued by a vivid nightmare. He found himself in a burning village, the screams of multiple people echoing in his ears. The smell of burning wood choked him, making it hard to breathe. The thick, billowing smoke irritated his nose and throat, causing discomfort and a stinging sensation in his respiratory passages. He woke in a cold sweat, his heart racing. There was a lingering sense of fear and confusion as his mind struggles to separate the vivid, terrifying images of the dream from reality. His body is covered in a cold sweat, and he felt an unsettling chill down his spine. The room seemed unnaturally quiet and still, heightening his sense of unease. The realism of the nightmare lingers in his mind, making it difficult to reassure himself that it was just a dream. Even as reality sets back in, the emotional residue left him shaken, the sense of unease persisting long after he had awakened. The next morning, Anran joined Feng Ming for the daily exercises, but his movements were stiff, his mind clouded by the remnants of his nightmare. Feng Ming, perceptive to Anran¡¯s distracted demeanor, expressed his concern, ¡°Are you okay?¡± ¡°Yeah, just a rough night,¡± Anran replied, trying to dismiss his unease with a strained smile. As the day progressed, Anran found it difficult to focus. His thoughts kept drifting back to his unsettling dream and the peculiar challenges in his training with Yuxuan. He was beginning to realize that his path to mastery and his integration into the sect, perhaps even his recovery from amnesia, were entangled with mysteries that stretched beyond ordinary cultivation challenges. These insights weighed heavily on him, casting a shadow over his attempts to establish his place within the disciplined structure of the outer sect.