《Blades of Change》


 Prologue: Two Swords

    Prologue: Two Swords


    Huo Long sat upon a grand throne carved from the very stone of the tallest mountain peak in North China. The throne stood at the edge of a balcony overlooking an awe-inspiring landscape. Below, a sea of people filled the mountain ranges, tribes from every corner of the north united under one rule. The air was thick with anticipation and the sound of their collective cheering seemed powerful enough to shake the very mountains.


    Huo Long was a man of formidable presence, a powerful and violent aura emanating from him. His face was chiseled and stern, framed by a mane of wild, jet-black hair that fell to his broad shoulders. His eyes, sharp and piercing, burned with an intensity that could cow even the most stalwart warrior. Scars crisscrossed his weathered skin, each one a testament to the countless battles he had fought and won. Muscles bulged under his ceremonial armor, which was adorned with intricate patterns of dragons and flames, symbols of his dominance and power.


    To Huo Long''s right stood a young girl with long brown hair and large, fierce eyes. Her expression, one of intense determination, seemed almost out of place on a face so young. This was Huo Lian, his daughter. Despite her tender age, she had a fierce presence that contrasted sharply with her otherwise cute and delicate features. Her small frame and innocent appearance masked a fiery spirit and a keen mind, attributes she had inherited from her formidable father.


    In the center of the balcony, resting upon a marble pedestal, was a golden crown. Seven powerful chieftains, each a leader of their respective tribes, approached the pedestal with grave expressions. The ceremony was both symbolic and binding. One by one, each man drew a knife and cut his palm, allowing his blood to flow freely. The crimson drops splattered onto the golden crown, mixing to form a deep, dark red.


    When the last man had added his blood, they all grasped the crown together. The weight of their combined will, their hate, jealousy, and greed, made the air around them heavy. They lifted the blood-stained crown and approached Huo Long.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    With a solemn, almost ritualistic motion, they placed the crown upon Huo Long''s head. The golden circlet, now marked with the blood of the tribes'' leaders, glinted in the sunlight. The crowd erupted into cheers, a deafening roar of approval that reverberated through the mountains.


    Huo Long, with the crown now upon his head, stood and raised his arms, acknowledging the unity he had forged. His eyes scanned the horizon, taking in the vast expanse of his newly unified territory, but he never once glanced at the fierce-eyed girl standing by his side. Huo Lian''s presence was ignored, as if she were just another part of the background. The cheers of the crowd swelled, drowning any thought of her in the grandeur of the moment.


    Far below from the grandeur of the mountain peak was a humble farm nestled in a lush valley. The contrast was stark. Where the mountains were harsh and imposing, the valley was peaceful and verdant, a testament to hard work and simple living.


    A man, massive in stature with arms and legs the size of a grown man''s waist, worked the fields. His powerful build and the ease with which he handled the large plow made him look more like a minotaur than a farmer. Despite his imposing appearance, Zheng Wei had a face that exuded warmth and kindness. His eyes, a gentle brown, sparkled with a perpetual cheerfulness, and his laughter rang out hearty and sincere, a comforting sound that seemed to echo through the valley.


    This man was Zheng Wei, a gentle giant whose enormous muscles belied a heart full of compassion and gentleness. He stood up, his towering figure casting a long shadow over the well-maintained farmland, and laughed heartily. His eyes sparkled with satisfaction and pride.


    A young boy approached him, his steps quick and filled with purpose. The boy, Zhen Jian, carried a large jug of crystal-clear water. His sturdy build and bright, happy eyes mirrored the cheerfulness of his father. With a broad smile, he handed the jug to Zheng Wei, who took it with one hand, his other hand coming to rest lovingly on the boy''s shoulder.


    Zheng Wei took a long, refreshing drink from the jug, then set it down. He looked out over the farmland, his arm still around Zhen Jian. The land was well-tended, a patchwork of green and gold under the setting sun. Both father and son stood together, silent but proud, their bond strengthened by the fruits of their labor.


    As they looked out over their land, a sense of peace and accomplishment settled over them. In this moment, the world was simple and good, and the farm stood as a testament to their hard work and unity.

 Chapter 1 Tampering

    Chapter 1 Tampering


    [Huo Lian]


    Huo Lian stood at the edge of the palace room¡¯s balcony, the cold wind tousling her short brown hair. Many daughters of kings at her tender age would be dressed in beautiful white dresses with frills at their helm. However little Lian was dressed with leather armor instead of a dress. And instead of a smile on her small adorable face she had a fierce frown resembling a small eagle filled with anger.


    From here, she could see the sprawling mountain ranges of northern China, their peaks touching the sky. And the beginning of a capital being made.These were her father¡¯s attachments. Unify eight tribes under a single banner and creating a powerful kingdom from them.


    Her father, Huo Long, was a formidable ruler, feared and respected by all. His presence was like a storm¡ªpowerful, overwhelming, and distant. Despite sharing his blood, she was but a shadow in his realm.This kingdom along with her father abhorred her very existence. Lian had no memory of her father ever holding her; rather, she has no memory of her father ever making eye contact with her.  She did not understand why.


    Until¡­


    ¡°She would never be able to rule.¡± Said a young guard walking passed.


    ¡°Sigh, yes his majesty was not blessed with an heir. Quite unfortunate. What he wanted was a male child, but what he got was a useless girl.¡± exclaimed the older guard while shaking his head.


    Little Lian was hiding in a corrido listening to them. Her young mind couldn''t understand why she was not wanted and why she couldn''t share with her father. However she felt anger, more anger than she herself could understand. They rejected her very existence.


    They wanted a male.


    A true and powerful heir. Yet what they obtained was her. And she was a woman. In a kingdom that forged on the very blood of the warring tribes of the north. These barbarians who now were wearing silk considered women as their property and never gave them any rights. So much so that she does not even know her mother''s name.


    However she would not be a plaything of men. She, Huo Lian had pride that was engraved in her bones. They rejected her existence. Then she would beat them into submission. Her inheritance pride, ancient and profound, reached the heavens and back. She was determined to be respected.She was determined to be a warrior. She was determined to rule all with her gaze.


    The disdain around her forced her to mature much faster. She understood why her father was respected, Power. Power is what she needed.


    Gazing at the moonlight she recalled the memories she had. Lilian was extremely talented. She can recall nearly everything she has ever seen.


    She looked back down and started to move her body.


    Huo Lian tightened the leather straps on her armor, her fierce eyes reflecting the cold determination she carried within. The training grounds lay silent under the silver light of the moon, a stark contrast to the bustling palace halls. This solitude was her sanctuary, a place where she could hone her skills away from the prying eyes of those who doubted her.


    She began with a series of stretching exercises, loosening her muscles and preparing her body for the rigorous training ahead. Each movement was precise, executed with the grace and discipline that belied her young age. She stretched her arms above her head, feeling the satisfying pull in her shoulders and back, before moving into a series of lunges that tested the flexibility and strength of her legs.


    Next, she moved on to footwork drills. She had observed the soldiers in her father''s army, noting how their stances and movements dictated the flow of battle. She mimicked their steps, her small feet moving swiftly and surely across the dirt ground. Forward, backward, side to side¡ªher feet were a blur of motion, each step calculated to maintain balance and readiness.


    After several minutes, she transitioned into shadow boxing. Her fists cut through the air with rapid precision, each punch accompanied by a focused exhale. She imagined an opponent in front of her, dodging and weaving as she delivered a flurry of blows. Her fists connected with the phantom target, the sound of her breath punctuating the still night. Jab, cross, hook, uppercut¡ªshe repeated the sequence until her arms burned with effort.


    Her next focus was on swordplay. Huo Lian had no formal training, but her keen observational skills had allowed her to learn the basics by watching the palace guards. She retrieved a wooden practice sword from the rack and took a deep breath, centering herself. With a swift, fluid motion, she swung the sword in a downward arc, the wooden blade whistling through the air. She repeated the motion, adjusting her grip and stance each time to improve her form.


    She moved on to more complex techniques, incorporating spins and footwork into her routine. Her body moved with a dancer''s grace, each step and strike a testament to her dedication. She imagined facing an opponent, parrying their attacks and responding with her own. Her fierce expression never wavered, her mind focused entirely on the task at hand.


    As the night wore on, Huo Lian''s training grew more intense. She set up a series of makeshift targets¡ªwooden posts and straw dummies¡ªand practiced her strikes with relentless precision. Each blow was delivered with the intention of causing maximum damage, her small frame belying the power behind her strikes. She moved from target to target, her sword a blur of motion as she practiced various techniques.


    She paused only to catch her breath, her chest heaving with exertion. Sweat dripped from her brow, stinging her eyes, but she refused to let it deter her. She wiped her face with the back of her hand and resumed her training, her determination unwavering.


    Huo Lian knew that physical strength alone was not enough. She needed to cultivate her inner qi, the mystical energy that flowed through all living beings. She had read about it in the ancient texts hidden in the palace archives, and she was determined to master it. She sheathed her wooden sword and sat cross-legged on the ground, her hands resting on her knees.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, focusing on the flow of energy within her body. She visualized her dantian, the core where her qi was stored, and imagined drawing the energy from it. Slowly, she felt a warmth spread through her body, a gentle hum of power that resonated with her very being. She concentrated on guiding the qi through her meridians, opening and cleansing them with each breath.


    The process was slow and arduous, requiring immense focus and discipline. She could feel the energy resisting her control, like a wild horse bucking against a rider. But Huo Lian was relentless, her will as unyielding as iron. She continued to draw and guide the qi, her mind and body in perfect harmony.


    After what felt like hours, she opened her eyes, a sense of accomplishment washing over her. She could feel the difference¡ªthe energy within her was more stable, more potent. She had made progress, however small, and it fueled her determination to continue.


    Her training was far from over. She rose to her feet and began a series of agility drills, her body moving with a speed and fluidity that came from years of practice. She leaped over obstacles, rolled under low beams, and dodged imaginary attacks, her movements a blur in the moonlight. Each drill was designed to test and improve her reflexes, her ability to react swiftly and decisively in combat.


    Despite her young age, Huo Lian''s training regimen was brutal. She pushed herself to her limits, her body aching with fatigue, but she never faltered. She knew that every drop of sweat, every moment of pain, brought her closer to her goal. She would not be a plaything, a mere daughter of the king. She would be a warrior, a leader, a force to be reckoned with.


    As the first light of dawn began to crest over the mountains, Huo Lian completed her final set of exercises. She stood in the center of the training grounds, her body drenched in sweat, her muscles trembling with exhaustion. But there was a fire in her eyes, a fierce determination that burned brighter than ever.


    She sheathed her practice sword and took a deep breath, her mind replaying the night''s training. She had made progress, but there was still much to learn, much to achieve. She would continue to train, to push herself beyond her limits, until she was the warrior she was destined to be.


    With a final glance at the rising sun, Huo Lian turned and made her way back to the palace. Her steps were heavy with fatigue, but her spirit was unbroken. She would face the disdain of her father, the indifference of the kingdom, with her head held high. She was Huo Lian, and she would not be denied.


    In the solitude of her chambers, she allowed herself a brief moment of rest. She lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling, her mind already planning her next training session. She would study the texts, observe the soldiers, and continue to hone her skills. She would prove to everyone, including herself, that she was more than just the daughter of Huo Long.


    She closed her eyes, her body finally succumbing to the exhaustion that had been building throughout the night. As she drifted into a restless sleep, her dreams were filled with visions of battle, of triumph, and of the respect she so desperately craved. She was determined to forge her own path, to create her own destiny, and no one would stand in her way.


    For Huo Lian, the journey had only just begun.


    [Zhen Jian]


    Zhen Jian stirred as the soft morning sun began to creep through the small window of his humble bedroom, casting a warm glow on his face. The gentle light slowly roused him from his slumber, its touch like a tender caress, urging him to wakefulness. He stretched out lazily, relishing the comfort of his simple, yet familiar bed, and let out a contented sigh.


    The sounds of the farm greeted his ears¡ªbirds chirping in the nearby trees, the distant lowing of cattle, and the rhythmic clucking of hens. But most prominent of all was the hearty laughter of his father, Zheng Wei, echoing across the fields. Zhen Jian smiled to himself, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over him.


    Slowly, he swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up, stretching his arms above his head in a leisurely manner. His room was modest, with wooden walls adorned with simple decorations and a small shelf lined with a few cherished belongings, including the old romance novel his mother once treasured. He glanced at it briefly, feeling a familiar pang of longing for the mother he never knew.


    His stomach grumbled, reminding him that it was time for breakfast. With a light-hearted chuckle, he made his way to the door, pausing to slip on his worn but sturdy boots. As he stepped outside, the fresh morning air filled his lungs, invigorating him. The farm spread out before him, a patchwork of green fields and animal pens, all bathed in the golden light of dawn.


    Zheng Wei''s laughter grew louder as Zhen Jian approached the fields. His father was a towering figure, with muscles that rivaled those of a mythical hero. Despite his imposing appearance, Zheng Wei was known for his gentle nature and kind heart. He was guiding a plow through the rich earth, his strength evident in the ease with which he handled the heavy tool.


    "Morning, Father!" Zhen Jian called out, waving as he made his way towards the animal pens.


    "Morning, son!" Zheng Wei''s voice boomed back, filled with warmth. "I see you''re finally up! Sleep well?"


    "Like a log," Zhen Jian replied with a grin. "I''m going to get breakfast ready."


    Zheng Wei laughed again, the sound full of pride and affection. "Good lad. I''ll join you soon."


    Zhen Jian headed towards the animal pens, where the livestock were already stirring. The goats bleated softly, and the chickens clucked as he approached. He moved with practiced ease, his hands working deftly to gather fresh eggs from the hens and milk from the goats. The animals responded to him with trust, a testament to the care and respect he showed them.


    As he worked, he hummed a cheerful tune, the morning sun now fully risen and casting long shadows across the farm. The routine tasks were familiar and comforting, each motion bringing a sense of purpose and satisfaction. He filled a pail with frothy, warm milk and collected a basket of eggs, envisioning the hearty breakfast he would prepare.


    With the essentials gathered, Zhen Jian made his way back to the small farmhouse where a simple kitchen awaited. He set the milk and eggs on the wooden counter and began to prepare the meal. Cracking the eggs into a bowl, he whisked them vigorously before pouring the mixture into a hot skillet. The smell of sizzling eggs filled the air, mingling with the fresh aroma of the milk he had just collected.


    He couldn''t help but smile as he worked, the familiar sounds and smells of the kitchen bringing a sense of homely comfort. As the eggs cooked, he sliced some bread and set it to toast over the fire. Within minutes, the kitchen was filled with the inviting scent of a hearty breakfast.


    Zheng Wei''s footsteps soon echoed outside the farmhouse, and moments later, he entered the kitchen, his face beaming with pride. "Smells delicious, son!"


    "Thanks, Father," Zhen Jian replied, plating the eggs and toast. "It''s almost ready."


    The two sat down at the small wooden table, the morning sun streaming in through the window and casting a warm glow over the simple meal. They ate in companionable silence, the bond between father and son evident in their easy camaraderie. Despite the simplicity of their life, there was a richness in their connection, a deep sense of love and respect that transcended words.


    As they finished their breakfast, Zheng Wei leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face. "You''re a good lad, Zhen Jian. Your mother would be proud of you."


    Zhen Jian looked down at his plate, his heart swelling with emotion. "I hope so, Father."


    With the morning chores done and breakfast finished, Zhen Jian felt ready to face whatever the day might bring. He knew that, like every other day, there would be hard work ahead. But with his father''s laughter echoing in his ears and the warmth of the morning sun on his face, he felt a sense of peace and purpose that would carry him through.


    And so, with a final stretch and a contented sigh, Zhen Jian stepped out into the bright new day, ready to embrace the challenges and joys that awaited him on the farm.

 Chapter 2 Types of Meals

    Chapter 2 Types of Meals


    [Huo Lian]


    Huo Lian stood on the palace training grounds, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun. At ten years old, she had reached the fifth stage of Qi Gathering, having opened fifty meridians. This stage was a significant milestone, placing her among the elite ranks of the kingdom''s military. Her body was lean and powerful, every muscle honed to perfection, and her mind was sharp and focused, always ready for the next challenge.


    Qi Gathering was the initial stage of cultivation, where practitioners opened their meridians to harness and refine their inner qi, the mystical energy that flowed through all living things. The stage had ten levels, each representing the opening of ten meridians, culminating in a hundred meridians. Huo Lian had reached the fifth stage, her power and agility far surpassing those of ordinary martial artists. She could now fight five hundred martial artists with ease, her skills and power putting her at the level of a Sergeant in the military hierarchy.


    In the kingdom''s military system, cultivation levels were directly tied to military ranks. Martial artists, those in the initial stages of Qi Gathering, held the lowest ranks, from recruits to corporals. Qi Gathering cultivators, like Huo Lian, were considered sergeants to lieutenants, their abilities making them invaluable leaders on the battlefield. Foundation Establishment cultivators, who refined their body parts, held ranks from captains to colonels, while Core Formation cultivators, the most powerful, were the generals and chieftains, commanding entire armies and shaping the fate of the kingdom. Huo Lian had once heard soldiers saying her father was at the last stage of Core Formation, but such a level was too far for her to even imagine.


    Huo Lian''s eyes scanned the palace grounds as she walked, her leather boots barely making a sound on the cobblestone paths. The grandeur of the palace, with its towering walls and intricate carvings, was lost on her. She had grown accustomed to its splendor, seeing it more as a cage than a home. The guards and servants she passed paid her no heed, their eyes avoiding hers, their expressions blank. She was the daughter of Huo Long, the formidable ruler of the Northern Huo Dynasty, yet she was treated as an invisible presence.


    She approached a small treasure vault, its entrance guarded by two Qi Gathering cultivators. She could feel the limits of their cultivations. Both were at the second stage. Defeating them would be a simple matter for her. She had a small cold smirk on young, childish face.  The guards stiffened as she neared but did not challenge her. They could feel the apathy radiating off her, they felt it would be better not to interfere with Huo Lian. With a deft movement, she unlocked the heavy iron door and stepped inside. The vault was a small, dimly lit room, filled with various treasures and artifacts. Her eyes fell on a dozen Spirit Stones and a sharp short sword. Spirit Stones were precious, containing condensed qi that could aid in cultivation. The short sword, made of refined steel, glinted in the faint light. She slipped the stones into a pouch at her waist and took the sword, feeling its balanced weight in her hand.


    Satisfied, she left the small vault and headed toward a much larger one, its entrance guarded by five Foundation Establishment cultivators. She could feel only part of their strength. She felt as if she was looking up at the mountain, able to see the base but the peak remained clouded above. She believed that any one of these guards would be able to crush her with their will alone, not even having to lift a finger.  These guards were clearly too formidable, they stood like statues, their gazes fixed forward. Huo Lian stopped in front of the vault. The larger vault held treasures of immense value, including high-grade Spirit Stones, ancient texts, and powerful weapons. She knew the guards would not open it for her; her status, despite her abilities, did not grant her access. She turned around and continued walking.


    As she walked she saw many large men walking into a room. She could not even feel the presence of the men in front of her. They felt like an illusion to her perception. But their large massive bodies covered her vision and the sounds of their heavy boots rang like thunder in her ears. As she approached the door. She saw a glimpse of her father standing in the middle of the room feasting with his subordinate with a wine glass in his hand. Once the last man left the guard slammed the door shut, not even sparing her a single glance. Without a word, she turned and walked away, her footsteps echoing softly in the quiet hallway. The rejection stung, but she pushed the feeling aside. She had learned long ago that power was the only currency that mattered. She would continue to grow stronger, and one day, no door would remain closed to her.


    As she made her way to the dining hall, the aroma of food filled the air, a tantalizing mix of spices and roasted meats. She entered the hall and took her seat at the long, elaborately set table. The servants and maids moved swiftly, their movements precise and efficient. They presented her with a beautiful meal, a feast of various dishes made from cultivating beasts. These beasts, imbued with qi, provided immense benefits when consumed. They enhanced one''s strength, vitality, and cultivation speed, making them highly prized.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Huo Lian ate in silence, the energy coursing through her body with each bite. The meat was tender and rich, the side dishes perfectly balanced to complement the main course. The maids refilled her water cup without a word, their eyes downcast, their movements a blur. The meal was luxurious, yet was tasteless and cold. She was surrounded by opulence but starved for the respect and acknowledgment she craved.


    After eating her fill, she pushed the plates away and stood up, her expression unreadable. The maids quickly cleared the table, their actions swift and practiced. Huo Lian left the dining hall, her mind already focused on her next goal. Today she will venture into the city.


    [Zhen Jian]


    Zhen Jian and his father, Zheng Wei, were enjoying a hefty breakfast, as they often did. The morning sun bathed their small, cozy kitchen in a warm glow, making the wooden table and chairs look almost golden. The aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling bacon filled the air. Wei¡¯s booming laughter echoed through the room, mingling with Jian¡¯s cheerful giggles as they shared stories and jokes.


    As Wei took a sip of his tea, he looked at Jian with a smile. ¡°Son, we¡¯re going to have to go into the city to sell our vegetables today. Would you like to come along?¡±


    Jian¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. ¡°Of course, Father! I¡¯d love to!¡±


    After finishing their meal, they headed outside to their farm. The cart they used for transporting vegetables was enormous, so large that it looked like a small house on wheels. Its wooden frame was sturdy and well-crafted, built to withstand the weight of their bountiful harvest.


    The cart had no animal to pull it. Wei, with his immense strength, had always insisted on pulling it himself. ¡°Why bother the animals when I can do it?¡± he would say with a hearty laugh. Jian admired his father¡¯s strength and always enjoyed watching him pull the cart effortlessly.


    Jian climbed on top of the cart, finding his usual spot among the vegetables. Wei and Jian laughed and made conversation as they prepared to leave. As they started their journey, Wei stopped laughing for a moment, a wistful look crossing his face.


    ¡°Your mother, Mei, used to climb onto the cart just like you do,¡± Wei said softly. ¡°She¡¯d joke around and make the journey so much fun.¡±


    A single tear rolled down Wei¡¯s cheek, but he continued to laugh, the memory bittersweet. Jian, sensing the depth of his father¡¯s emotions, asked, ¡°Father, how much did you love Mother?¡±


    Wei stopped the cart and sighed, looking up at the sky. ¡°She was the breath of my life,¡± he said quietly. ¡°Then you were born, and that breath became two. But the gods couldn¡¯t let a common man have so many breaths of life in one body, or he might become a god himself!¡± He chuckled, wiping away the tear.


    Jian laughed too, his father¡¯s silly joke lightening the moment. They continued their journey, the cart rumbling along the dirt road towards the capital city.


    As they arrived at the bustling city, Jian¡¯s eyes widened in amazement. The busy streets were filled with people, the air alive with the sounds of chatter, laughter, and the clattering of horse-drawn carriages. Tall buildings lined the streets, their colorful facades adorned with intricate designs. Jian was fascinated by the new sights and sounds, but his heart always belonged to their farm.


    Wei¡¯s massive frame and loud laugh made people step aside, clearing a path for them. They easily found a spot in the market and set up their stall, arranging the fresh vegetables in neat, inviting piles.


    ¡°Son, if you want to wander around, feel free to do so,¡± Wei said, patting Jian on the back.


    But Jian shook his head. ¡°I like the city, Father, but my paradise will always be our home. And my home is with you.¡±


    Wei smiled, his heart swelling with pride. They waited for customers, but an hour passed, and no one came to buy their vegetables. Wei scratched his head, puzzled. The vegetables were in pristine condition, just freshly picked. The water droplets on them had not even dried, so why were people not buying them?


    Then, they noticed a cute little girl with medium-length brown hair staring at a bright green apple. Wei laughed loudly, thinking she was the same age as Jian. His laughter caught everyone¡¯s attention, making some drop what they were holding and start sweating out of fear.


    He handed Jian a few apples in a bag and said, ¡°Son, go give the girl some apples. She looks like she wants them.¡±


    Jian looked ahead and asked, ¡°That pretty girl with brown hair?¡±


    Wei laughed harder, patting his son¡¯s back. ¡°Yes, good lad, that one. Go on, she looks like she might be hungry.¡±


    Jian smiled, took the bag, and walked up to the little girl. Usually, girls were taller than boys of the same age, but Jian was slightly taller than her. He smiled and approached the girl, raising the bag to her.


    ¡°These are the best apples in the world. Please, have some!¡± he said with a goofy grin.


    His speech made everyone around them laugh. The girl¡¯s eyes widened in shock at his actions. She grabbed the bag and said, ¡°Thank you,¡± in a quiet voice, bowing and turning away.


    Jian laughed and waved his hand, yelling, ¡°Come back again in three months! We¡¯ll have more delicious fruits and vegetables!¡±


    The girl stopped and nodded without facing him. Seeing the kind interaction between the father and son and the small girl, more people had the courage to approach their stall. Soon, the cart was emptied, and it was time to go back.


    Wei laughed the whole time, thinking it was a very pleasant outing with his son. Jian also laughed, thinking about the girl¡¯s small smile. Maybe giving her more fruits and vegetables would make her smile even bigger next time.


    As they made their way back home, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the fields. Jian and Wei walked side by side, their hearts full of warmth and contentment. The city was exciting, but their true paradise was their home, where they could share these precious moments together.

 Chapter 3 Rewards

    Chapter 3 Rewards


    [Huo Lian]


    Huo Lian walked firmly out of the palace gates, her heart pounding with a mixture of anxiety and excitement. This was the first time she had ever stepped foot outside the palace, and she was determined to mask any sign of unease. Years of hiding her pain from others had taught her to keep her emotions tightly controlled. She inhaled deeply, taking in the fresh air and the sights of the outside world for the first time.


    As she walked, she thought back to her goal for this outing. Her body was covered in large bruises from overworking her muscles, and the usual meditation had not been enough to heal them. The lingering pain was a testament to her relentless training, but it also hindered her progress. She needed herbs to increase muscle recovery, something to ease the fatigue that had built up over weeks of intense exercise. She had twelve Spirit Stones, but she wasn¡¯t sure what they could buy her. Determination etched on her face, she made her way through the bustling capital city.


    The streets were alive with activity. Vendors shouted their prices and touted their wares from stalls lining the roads. "Powerful artifacts, five Spirit Stones!" yelled one. "Cultivation resources, very cheap, only one Spirit Stone!" called another. Lian¡¯s eyes scanned the various shops, her ears catching snippets of conversations and the rhythmic clatter of footsteps.


    Suddenly, her gaze fell upon an old man sitting at a stall, casually drinking tea. Herbs hung from the sides of his stall, and numerous bottles were stacked beneath. Lian approached, her footsteps purposeful. "I need something to heal my body," she said, her voice a bit strained from lack of use. She rarely spoke, often going months without uttering a word, which sometimes led to maids gossiping about her supposed muteness. The thought made her angry, but she had always restrained herself from fighting noncombatants.


    The old man didn''t seem to mind her brusque manner. Without even opening his eyes, he pointed at a bottle and said, "Take two of these, and the bruises will be gone in a week. Next time, take three days of break after such intense exercise. And train during the daytime. Your master must be an idiot."


    Lian was taken aback. How could he know so much without even looking at her? Bitterness welled up within her as she thought about his advice. Resting seemed counterproductive to becoming stronger. But she realized that without adequate rest, she would be stuck in her current state of exhaustion and pain.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    "How much?" she asked, her frustration clear.


    The old man paused his tea-drinking and asked, "Who is your idiot master?"


    Lian¡¯s frown deepened. She clenched her fists and said through gritted teeth, "I don''t have one. Now tell me how much, or I will go somewhere else."


    The old man opened his eyes, revealing pale eyes that could see through everything. Lian instinctively stepped back. His gaze, devoid of pupils, felt piercing.


    "You trained yourself until now?" he asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.


    Expecting another ridicule, Lian steeled herself. She was proud of her accomplishments, achieved without anyone''s aid. She closed her eyes and nodded.


    The old man said nothing to mock her. Instead, he took another sip of tea and instructed, "Drink both bottles here."


    Lian hesitated but followed his command. The liquid had a pungent smell and tasted horrible. Even with her strong willpower, she had to close her eyes to keep from gagging. As she drank, she felt a bony, cold hand on her head. She tried to pull away, but a strange power held her in place.


    Suddenly, she felt the liquid move from her stomach directly into her muscles. The pain started to melt away as if the liquid was washing dirt from her body. Areas that had been hurting felt soothed, and soon, all her discomfort vanished. She felt rejuvenated, as though she had been reborn. When she opened her eyes, the old man was calmly drinking his tea, as if he hadn¡¯t moved.


    She reached for her Spirit Stones, ready to pay, but he stopped her. "No need. Today is a reward for your efforts."


    His words echoed in her mind as she secured her Spirit Stones and began to walk aimlessly. "Today is a reward for your efforts," she repeated to herself, again and again. The phrase consumed her thoughts, and she found herself standing still in the middle of the street, lost in contemplation.


    A loud voice broke through her reverie. "These are the best apples in the world. Please, have some!" A boy with a goofy grin held up a bag of apples.


    Lian blinked in confusion. The boy¡¯s genuine smile and kind gesture brought a small smile to her face, something she hadn¡¯t felt in a long time. "Thank you," she said quietly, taking the bag and bowing to the boy.


    He laughed heartily and called after her, "Come back again in three months! We¡¯ll have more delicious fruits and vegetables!"


    His words made her pause. She nodded slightly and walked back toward the palace, her pace quickening. She didn¡¯t remember the journey home or the people she passed. Her mind was consumed with thoughts of the old man and the kind boy.


    Entering her room, she closed the door behind her and let herself collapse onto her luxurious bed. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she began to weep, burying her face in the soft pillows. For the first time in her life, Huo Lian cried not out of pain or frustration, but out of the overwhelming happiness.


    She wept for the kindness that strangers had shown her, a kindness that had been absent from her family and attendants. But her tears were not of helplessness; they were tears of joy and gratitude. Someone had acknowledged her efforts and rewarded her for them. That day, the proud Huo Lian cried, feeling a profound sense of recognition and hope for the future.

 Chapter 4 Polishing the Sword

    Chapter 4 Polishing the Sword


    Zhen Jian and Wei began their journey home, the sun casting long shadows across the path. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant hum of insects. Jian walked beside his father, his small hand gripping a stick he had found, imagining it to be a mighty sword.


    As they traversed through a dense forest, the sunlight filtering through the canopy above, they suddenly heard a rustling noise. Jian froze, his heart pounding in his chest. Emerging from the underbrush was a large snake, its scales glistening in the dappled light.


    "Father, watch out!" Jian''s voice was a mixture of fear and excitement. Wei, unperturbed, stepped forward with calm confidence.


    Before Jian could react, the snake lunged, sinking its fangs into Wei''s arm. Wei''s body tensed for a moment, then relaxed. He pulled the snake away effortlessly, a small drop of blood seeping from the bite. He laughed it off, ruffling Jian''s hair with his uninjured hand.


    "It''s nothing to worry about, Jian. My body is strong. A little snake bite won''t hurt me." Wei''s laughter was reassuring, but Jian laughed too. His father was very strong, he thought.


    They continued their journey, Wei''s demeanor unchanged, Jian''s mind also became relaxed. But the small bite on Wei¡¯s arm continued to drip blood.


    ---


    A month passed, and life returned to its usual rhythm. Jian and Wei worked on their farm, the fields lush with crops. The bite seemed to have no lasting effect on Wei, who carried on with his daily tasks as if nothing had happened.


    One afternoon, as the sun beat down on the fields, Wei suddenly staggered. Jian dropped his tools and rushed to his side, panic surging through him. Wei''s face was pale, his body weak. He fainted, collapsing into the dirt.


    "Father!" Jian cried out, his voice breaking with fear. He hoisted Wei onto his back and ran towards the village, his legs trembling under the weight.


    At the village doctor''s house, Jian banged on the door, desperation in his eyes. The doctor, an elderly man, ushered them in. He examined Wei, his expression growing more serious by the minute. When he removed the bandage from Wei''s arm, pus oozed from the bite marks.


    "Tell me what happened," the doctor demanded. Jian recounted the story, his voice shaking.


    "If this had happened recently, I could have helped," the doctor said, his tone heavy with regret. "But it''s too late now. The venom has spread too far."The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    Shock washed over Jian. Tears streamed down his face as he clung to his father''s hand. Wei patted Jian''s shoulder, his voice weak but comforting. "I''m sorry, my son. I should have been more careful."


    For the next month and a half, Jian devoted himself to caring for Wei. He watched as his father''s strength ebbed away, feeling helpless. Each day was a painful reminder of what he was losing.


    ---


    Wei passed away quietly one evening, his hand clasped in Jian''s. Jian buried him next to his mother''s grave, overlooking the farm they had worked on together. The earth felt cold and unyielding as he laid his father to rest.


    With a heavy heart, Jian packed two bags of apples ¨C one green and one red ¨C and walked to the town. He arrived at the same spot where he had met the girl last time and waited, the weight of his grief pressing down on him.


    The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the empty marketplace. Jian sat on the ground, lost in thought, tears streaming down his face. A light tap on his back jolted him from his reverie. He turned to see the girl, Huo Lian, panting and staring at him with concern.


    "I¡¯m sorry," Jian said, wiping his tears. "My father died today. That¡¯s why I¡¯m sad." He forced a laugh, though his eyes were still wet.


    Lian frowned and looked at the bags, her gaze intense. "Oh, I haven¡¯t introduced myself. I¡¯m Zhen Jian. Even when my father was sick, he reminded me every day to bring you the apples you liked. I also wanted you to try these red ones. They¡¯re really sweet."


    Lian was shocked. "He reminded you, even though he was sick?"


    Jian nodded, smiling through his tears. "Yeah. We were both happy to see you so happy when you got the apples. Father said always to keep your promises, so that¡¯s why I¡¯m here."


    A tear slid down Lian¡¯s cheek. Jian jumped, worried he had upset her. "I didn¡¯t want to make you sad. Please, eat an apple. It will make you smile again."


    Lian quickly wiped her tear away, her face reddening. She took a bite of the red apple, savoring the sweetness. Another tear escaped, but this time she paid it no mind. "It¡¯s sweet. I¡¯m Huo Lian. Nice to meet you, Zhen Jian."


    Jian smiled and nodded, preparing to leave.


    "You''re not gonna say you''ll be back in three months?" Lian''s voice held a hint of hope.


    "No, sorry. I¡¯m going to learn medicine from now on. I won¡¯t be back anymore. I haven¡¯t even asked the local doctor in my village yet, but hopefully, he will accept me." Jian laughed, trying to lighten the mood.


    Lian sighed, then smiled warmly. "Thank you for the apples." She knew she was thanking him for more than just the fruit ¨C his kindness and his promise meant more than words could express.


    Taken aback, Jian thought about how much the apples meant to her. "No problem. I¡¯m glad you liked them. Bye-bye."


    He walked back home with a small smile on his face, feeling a sense of closure. Lian watched him go, a smile on her lips, her heart lighter despite the tears they had both shed.


    To Jian, this brief exchange was a cherished memory, fulfilling his father¡¯s last wish and bringing a smile to the pretty girl''s face. For Lian, it was a meaningful moment, not only because it was one of the rare times she cried, but because it was the longest conversation she had ever had. She felt invigorated, determined to become more powerful, and with a small wish that one day, Jian would be her personal physician.


    As she walked back to her room, Lian nodded to herself, muttering, "He will be a good doctor." Both children felt a renewed sense of purpose, their brief but heartfelt interaction guiding them towards their goals.

 Chapter 5 Once More

    Chapter 5 Once More


    [Huo Lian]


    Three months passed rather quickly. Huo Lian found herself looking forward to seeing both her benefactors: the boy who had given her the most delicious food, and the old man who had cured her of all her pains without asking for anything in return. The taste of that apple and the calming feeling of that bony, cold hand lingered in her mind. She wanted to experience them again, even if just once more. She believed that such simple kindnesses could make her happy for a lifetime.


    As a child who did not know the love of family or friends, Lian was more than happy with a warm conversation with a stranger. During these three months, she had not remained idle. She had already achieved the opening of fifteen more meridians, bringing her to the eighth stage of Qi Gathering. Her power was now something to be reckoned with. She wanted to prove to the old man that she appreciated his help, so she trained hard, following the instructions he had provided. She trained her body in the daytime and cultivated mostly at night.


    Lian opened her eyes from cultivating. Today was the promised day, and she didn''t want to keep either of her benefactors waiting. The new dawn arrived with gentle sunshine upon the sleeping capital. Lian was already dressed in her best clothes, a deep blue robe with intricate silver embroidery. She walked out of the palace, her boots clicking softly on the cobblestones. The guards were yawning, ready to go home after a long night. As someone who was early to rise and late to sleep, Lian felt even more awake today. She felt excitement for the first time, though anxiety gnawed at her about whether it would be strange to meet so early in the morning. But her wish to express her gratitude and the simple desire to meet them was too strong.


    She strolled to the spot where the old man had set up his stall three months ago. The area was bustling with morning activity, vendors setting up their wares and the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the air. She found the place empty and waited, thinking it was her fault for coming too early. As time trickled by, her mind filled with the memory of the bone-cold hand upon her head and the taste of the apple on her tongue.


    An old woman at a nearby stall noticed her standing there. "Kiddo, what are you standing there for?" she asked, her voice gruff but not unkind.


    Lian cleared her throat and replied, "I am waiting for the old doctor who had his stall here three months ago."


    The old woman made a confused face and said, "He left a few months ago. I haven''t seen him since."Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    Disappointment crept onto Lian¡¯s face. The woman became busy with another customer, and Lian decided that she must be wrong. Surely, the old man had simply moved his stall somewhere else. Determined, she began to search for him throughout the capital. The day wore on, the sun climbing high and then beginning its descent. She searched tirelessly, but by the time the sun was setting, casting long shadows over the cobblestone streets, she had found no trace of him. Feeling dejected, she ran towards her second benefactor.


    Zhen Jian was sitting on the ground, staring into space, two bags of apples at his side. His face was tear-streaked, and he looked small and fragile. Seeing him like this made Lian''s heart squeeze with an emotion she had never felt before. "I almost lost everything from being too stubborn," she rebuked herself. She sprinted towards him and poked his back gently.


    He turned around, his tear-filled eyes meeting hers. Lian''s heart broke seeing him cry, and she felt a deep urge to comfort him, though she had never comforted anyone before. She felt distraught, unsure of what to do or say. Should she rub his back or wipe his tears? She glanced down at the bags of apples and then back at him.


    Jian smiled weakly and apologized, explaining that his father had died, which was why he was sad. Lian tried to imagine how she would feel, but her young mind could not fully grasp such complex emotions. She was sure she would cry like him, though. She frowned in confusion, trying to understand his feelings, hoping it would help her comfort him. Her gaze fell on the apples again.


    Lian was shocked by the realization that his father had reminded him of her even though he was sick. She couldn''t help but mutter, "He must have been a good person." This was the first time she had heard that someone wanted her to smile. The broken pieces of Lian''s heart not only came back together but a new emotion was born within her.


    She could not help but cry. She felt embarrassed that his simple words had such a profound impact on her. She now wanted to meet Jian''s father, feeling that it was too sad that the world had lost such a kind person.


    Jian began jumping around, trying to stop Lian from crying, which made her want to laugh. She held it in, but a large smile slipped out¡ªthe largest smile of her life. Lian wiped her tears and took a bite of the apple. It tasted even sweeter than the first time. All the luxurious food she had ever had did not taste as good as this apple. Another tear slipped out at how delicious the apple was. She didn''t bother wiping the tear; she decided that the one who gave her the apple deserved to see her cry. She didn''t mind showing this boy her weak side. She felt that she could never fully repay him for the two apples he had given her, but this was a start. "It¡¯s sweet. I¡¯m Huo Lian. Nice to meet you, Zhen Jian," she said happily.


    Jian started to leave. Lian thought, "No, the doctor never said he would be back, that''s why he didn''t come back. If Zhen Jian doesn''t say he''ll be back, he won''t be either." In a hopeful voice, she asked, "You''re not gonna say you''ll be back in three months?"


    He really won''t be back, she thought. She was happy that he was going to be a doctor. She believed he would be a good doctor. It was still a shame that she might not see the boy again. Lian sighed, then smiled warmly. "Thank you for the apples."

 Chapter 6 Path Ahead

    Chapter 6 Path Ahead


    The sun rose over the Northern Huo Dynasty, casting a golden glow on the bustling streets of the capital city. Years had passed, and the kingdom thrived under the leadership of Huo Long. Amidst the daily hustle, two lives continued to unfold in parallel yet vastly different paths¡ªZhen Jian and Huo Lian.


    [Zhen Jian]


    Zhen Jian, now a young man, stood in the modest yet orderly clinic of the local doctor. His face, once round and boyish, had grown lean and determined. He was far from the carefree boy who had tilled fields with his father. The passing years had been kind to his spirit but challenging to his intellect.


    The local doctor, a grizzled man with deep-set eyes and a wealth of knowledge, had finally accepted Zhen Jian as his disciple. The doctor was initially reluctant, for Zhen Jian''s reputation for foolishness preceded him. Yet, the boy''s unwavering kindness and tireless work ethic won him over. The doctor saw potential where others saw only a simpleton.


    "Pay attention, Zhen Jian," the doctor said one morning, pointing to a detailed anatomical diagram hanging on the wall. "These are the vital organs. Understanding their functions is the cornerstone of your medical training."


    Zhen Jian nodded, his brow furrowed in concentration. The first few months were grueling. His memory was indeed terrible. The doctor explained the functions of the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and other organs countless times. He used every method¡ªvisual aids, repetitive drills, even songs and rhymes to help Zhen Jian remember.


    Despite his struggles, Zhen Jian persisted. He would often stay up late into the night, repeating the names and functions of body parts to himself, his fingers tracing the diagrams. Slowly, the information began to stick. He could now recall that the heart pumped blood, the lungs facilitated breathing, the liver detoxifies the body, and so forth.


    The next phase of his training involved medicinal herbs. The doctor took Zhen Jian to the nearby hills and forests, teaching him how to identify various plants. They spent days collecting herbs, the doctor explaining the properties and purposes of each one.


    "Remember, Zhen Jian," the doctor said, holding up a sprig of ginseng. "This root can invigorate qi and nourish the blood. It is powerful, but only in the right dosage."


    Zhen Jian studied each herb carefully, learning their names, appearances, and uses. His hands became adept at preparing remedies, grinding leaves, and boiling roots into potent decoctions. His memory improved through sheer repetition, and his kind heart ensured he remembered the patients who needed each remedy.


    Next came the study of diseases. The doctor introduced Zhen Jian to various ailments, from common colds to more severe conditions like pneumonia and tuberculosis. They visited patients, and Zhen Jian observed the symptoms, treatments, and outcomes.


    "This is a crucial part of your training," the doctor emphasized. "Understanding disease is not just about knowing the symptoms, but also the causes and treatments. Pay attention to how each patient''s body reacts."


    Zhen Jian learned to diagnose and treat ailments, his confidence growing with each successful recovery. The doctor¡¯s once stern demeanor softened with pride as he saw his disciple''s progress.


    Soon, the doctor allowed Zhen Jian to assist him with patients. The young boy interacted with villagers who came seeking medical help. He listened to their complaints, examined them, and provided treatments under the doctor''s supervision.


    "Thank you, Zhen Jian," an old woman said after he treated her for a persistent cough. "You''re just like your father¡ªalways so kind and helpful."This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    Zhen Jian''s reputation grew. People began to refer to him as Zhen the Doctor instead of Zhen the Farmer. His master watched with pride as Zhen Jian''s skills and confidence blossomed.


    One day, the doctor called Zhen Jian into his study. He handed him a collection of medical books and an old, rusty sword.


    The old doctor stated matter of factly, ¡°You have learned much under me. Now I am leaving. These books contain my life''s knowledge," the doctor said. "And this sword... it belonged to your grandfather. Practice with it. All sword moves originate from a simple slash."


    Zhen Jian accepted the gifts, his heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, master. I will honor your teachings."


    The old doctor left the following day. He had a small bag on his back and a walking stick. He patted his disciple, with his bony, cold hand for the last time on his shoulder and ventured forth. The old doctor had left nearly everything behind for Jian to use.


    [Doctor Zhen]


    As I watched my master walk away, a mix of emotions surged within me. Gratitude, respect, and a profound sense of responsibility. The books he left behind, filled with a lifetime of knowledge, were now my guiding light. The sword, a legacy of my grandfather, felt heavy in my hands, a symbol of the lineage I had to uphold.


    Master''s departure marked the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. I had been under his tutelage for so long, absorbing every lesson, every piece of wisdom. Now, standing alone in the quiet morning, the weight of my new reality settled in. I was no longer a student; I was a doctor in my own right, ready to heal.


    Walking back into the small clinic, I took a deep breath, the scent of herbs and parchment filling my lungs. This was my space now, my sanctuary. Patients would come to me, seeking healing and hope. The responsibility was immense, but I felt ready. My master''s confidence in me was a testament to my readiness.


    The sun rose higher, casting a golden hue over the clinic. I organized the books, each one a treasure trove of knowledge, and placed the sword where I could see it, a constant reminder of my heritage and the path I had chosen.


    My journey was just beginning, and I was determined to make my mark. I would become a healer, and one day, a teacher myself. As I prepared for the day¡¯s work, I felt a surge of purpose. The legacy of my master and my family lived on in me, and I would honor it with every life I touched.


    [Huo Lian]


    In the grand palace of the Northern Huo Dynasty, Huo Lian''s journey was equally transformative. Now a young woman, her power and presence had grown exponentially. She had reached the first stage of Foundation Establishment after opening all her meridians, a feat few could boast.


    Foundation Establishment was a rigorous process that required refining every part of the body. Huo Lian progressed quickly, her intense training and unwavering determination pushing her forward.


    She began with her blood vessels, feeling them strengthen and expand with each cultivation session. She could sense the qi flowing through her like a powerful river, energizing every cell. Each morning, she would rise before dawn, practicing her forms and techniques with relentless precision.


    As she moved to the organs, the training became even more grueling. She would spend hours in meditation, visualizing the qi nourishing her heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. The sensation was both painful and exhilarating. Her organs became resilient, capable of withstanding immense strain.


    Next were the bones. Huo Lian subjected herself to bone-crushing exercises, pushing her body to its limits. She could feel the qi hardening her bones, making them as strong as steel. Every step, every strike, carried the weight of her enhanced skeleton.


    The tendons and muscles came next. Her training sessions became even more intense. She would perform complex martial arts routines, each movement precise and deliberate. The strain on her tendons and muscles was immense, but she embraced the pain. She could feel her body growing stronger, more agile, and more responsive.


    Finally, she focused on her skin. The last layer of protection and refinement. Huo Lian immersed herself in cultivation, her skin becoming tougher, almost impenetrable. The process was slow and arduous, but she endured it with steadfast resolve.


    Each movement session left her body aching, her muscles screaming in protest. Yet, she pushed through, knowing that every ounce of pain brought her closer to her goal. After each grueling session, she would retreat to her private chamber, where she would enter a deep state of cultivation, often going without food or sleep for days.


    The culmination of her efforts was the formation of her Golden Core. It was a momentous occasion, a testament to her dedication and willpower. As she felt the core solidify within her dantian, a surge of power and clarity washed over her. She had reached a level that few could attain, her potential now boundless.


    Despite her achievements, the respect and recognition she sought remained elusive. Her father, Huo Long, still regarded her with indifference, his attention focused on matters of state and warfare. But Huo Lian''s resolve only grew stronger. She would continue to train, continue to prove herself, until no one could deny her worth.

 Chapter 7 The Sword Unsheathed

    Chapter 7 The Sword Unsheathed


    [Huo Lian]


    Three month has passed since Huo Lian has become a core formation warrior


    One day, the head butler of the palace approached Huo Lian with news that set her very soul ablaze. "There is a marriage proposal for you, Huo Lian," he said, his voice trembling under the weight of his message.


    Huo Lian¡¯s fury ignited like a wildfire, her eyes narrowing into fiery slits. "They want to marry me off to become a plaything so they don''t have to see me? Am I that much of an eyesore?" she spat, her voice a razor-edged whisper that cut through the air.


    Her rage was visceral, an almost tangible force that seemed to radiate from her very being. Every fiber of her body quivered with indignation, her muscles taut with barely contained fury. "Who is the proposed marriage partner?" she demanded, her voice dripping with venom.


    "A chief''s son, Lou Fang," the butler replied, his own fear palpable as he took a step back.


    Without another word, Huo Lian donned her battle armor, each piece snapping into place with a metallic finality that echoed her resolve. Her eyes burned with an intensity that could melt steel as she raced to Chief Lou''s home, her heart pounding like a war drum.


    Upon arrival, she was greeted as an honored guest, but the courteous smiles and hollow words did little to quell the storm within her. She stepped into the grand hall, her presence a force of nature, ready to unleash her wrath upon those who dared to see her as nothing more than a pawn in their games.


    As Huo Lian entered Chief Lou''s grand estate, a palpable tension hung in the air, thick with the weight of impending confrontation. The opulent halls, adorned with intricate tapestries and gilded ornaments, felt suffocating to her. It was a stark contrast to the freedom she found in the open expanse of the training grounds.


    Chief Lou and his son, Lou Fang, greeted her with false hospitality, their lascivious gazes betraying their true intentions. Huo Lian''s skin crawled with revulsion, her senses heightened by the rage coursing through her veins.


    She stood before them, a vision of defiance and strength, her brown hair cascading like a waterfall down her back. Her eyes, crystal-clear and sharp as daggers, bore into theirs with unyielding resolve.


    Without hesitation, she unsheathed her sword, the blade gleaming in the dim light of the grand hall. In one swift motion, she struck, her movements fluid and deadly. Lou Fang''s lifeless body crumpled to the ground, his head rolling in a pool of blood.


    Chief Lou screamed in rage.Huo Lian stood in the grand hall of Chief Lou¡¯s estate, the flickering torches casting shadows on the stone walls. Lou Fang¡¯s lifeless body lay at her feet, his head severed cleanly by her sword. Chief Lou, a formidable figure with a weathered face and cold eyes, glared at her with a mixture of rage and disbelief.


    "You will pay for this, you wretched girl," he snarled, drawing his own blade, a weapon that gleamed menacingly in the dim light.


    Huo Lian, her crystal-clear eyes cold and focused, readied herself. Her armor, sleek and dark, seemed to absorb the light around her, making her appear like a shadow given form. Chief Lou lunged at her, his sword aimed to pierce her heart. She sidestepped effortlessly, her movements fluid and precise, and swung her blade in a wide arc. Their swords met with a resounding clash, sparks flying as metal ground against metal.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Chief Lou pressed his attack, slashing and thrusting with practiced skill. Huo Lian parried each strike with incredible precision, her eyes never leaving her opponent. She ducked under a wide swing, then countered with a quick upward slash, forcing Lou to leap back.


    "You think you can defeat me?" Lou taunted, his voice dripping with contempt. "I''ve fought more battles than you''ve seen days."


    Huo Lian remained silent, her focus unbroken. She moved with the grace of a dancer, each step calculated, each swing of her sword deliberate. She lunged forward, her blade aiming for Lou¡¯s neck, but he deflected it with a swift parry. He countered with a powerful downward slash, intending to cleave her in two. Huo Lian brought her sword up just in time, the force of the blow reverberating through her arms.


    Their swords clashed again and again, the sound echoing through the hall. Huo Lian¡¯s strikes were swift and relentless, a testament to her rigorous training. Chief Lou, relying on his experience, tried to find an opening in her defense. He launched a series of rapid thrusts, each aimed at a vital point, but Huo Lian deflected them with deft movements.


    Growing frustrated, Lou decided to change tactics. He feigned a strike to her left, then quickly reversed his grip and slashed at her right side. Huo Lian, anticipating the move, spun on her heel, her sword coming around in a sweeping arc. The tip of her blade grazed Lou¡¯s cheek, drawing a thin line of blood.


    Enraged, Lou roared and charged at her with renewed ferocity. Their swords met in a flurry of sparks, the sound of clashing metal like thunder in the confined space. Huo Lian¡¯s eyes were like ice, her expression one of deadly determination. She blocked a powerful overhead strike, then twisted her wrist and drove her elbow into Lou¡¯s ribcage, forcing him to stagger back.


    "You¡¯ll regret that," Lou hissed, wiping the blood from his cheek.


    He lunged again, this time with a wild fury, his strikes faster and more brutal. Huo Lian¡¯s blade met each attack with unwavering strength. She ducked under a horizontal slash, then brought her sword up in a vicious uppercut. Lou barely managed to deflect it, but the force of the blow sent him reeling.


    As Lou regained his footing, he taunted her again. "After I kill you, I¡¯ll use your body to sire another heir. Then I¡¯ll cut off your limbs and share you with my men."


    Huo Lian¡¯s eyes narrowed, her anger turning fiery like a volcano. She could feel the rage simmering within her, fueling her strikes. She stopped defending, allowing Lou to land a shallow cut on her arm. He laughed, thinking he had the upper hand.


    In that moment of overconfidence, she saw her opening. With a swift, powerful movement, she swung her sword in a deadly arc, her blade cleaving through Lou¡¯s neck with incredible precision. His laughter turned into a gurgle as his head separated from his body and tumbled to the floor.


    Breathing heavily, Huo Lian stood over the bodies of Chief Lou and his son. She wiped the blood from her blade and sheathed it, her eyes hard and unyielding. With the heads of the father and son in hand,


    As Huo Lian walked from Chief Lou''s house back to the palace, the atmosphere around her seemed to shift. The air was heavy with tension, and every step she took felt like an echo against the injustices she had just witnessed.


    The streets of the capital, once bustling with activity, now seemed eerily silent. People peeked out from behind curtains and doorways, their eyes filled with a mixture of fear and curiosity as they watched the young warrior pass by. Whispers followed in her wake, spreading like wildfire through the city streets.


    Despite carrying a bloody head in each hand, the crimson droplets marking her every step, Huo Lian''s pace remained steady and deliberate. Her long brown hair flowed down her back like a dark waterfall, each strand framing her face in a veil of unwavering determination. Her eyes, sharp as blades and crystal clear, cut through the darkness that cloaked the city, filled with a resolve that seemed to burn with an inner fire.


    With each step, the distance between Chief Lou''s house and the palace stretched out interminably, as if the very ground conspired to test her resolve. The journey felt like a pilgrimage, each stride a solitary march against the corruption and oppression that plagued her world. Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, a sense of purpose burned brightly within her, a beacon guiding her through the night.


    As she finally approached the towering walls of the palace, Huo Lian''s heart swelled with a complex blend of pride and sorrow. The palace, once a place where she had felt like a mere shadow, now stood before her like a monument to her achievements. In this moment, she was no longer a shadow but a blazing sun, her presence a stark reminder of her struggle to harness the power within her, the strength to rise against tyranny and injustice.


    With a final, determined stride, Huo Lian crossed the threshold of the palace gates.

 Chapter 8 No More Locked Doors

    Chapter 8 No More Locked Doors


    Huo Lian''s journey through the polished marble corridors of the palace left a trail of crimson stains, each droplet a testament to her will against the suffocating grip of oppression. With determined strides, she approached a grand door, its imposing presence a stark reminder of the barriers she had faced throughout her life. Memories of childhood rejections flooded her mind, of guards slamming the door shut in her face, denying her entry to the sanctum beyond.


    As she drew nearer, the significance of the room became clear ¨C the council room, where her father and the chiefs of the kingdom convened to discuss matters of state. The guards stationed on either side of the door recoiled in horror at the sight of the severed heads she held aloft. Fear etched deep lines into their faces, their eyes wide with disbelief.


    With a surge of power, Huo Lian unleashed a forceful kick, the impact shattering the door from its hinges. Wood splintered and metal groaned in protest as the barrier between her and the council room crumbled before her might.


    As Huo Lian entered the council room, an eerie hush descended over the gathered members. The walls were draped with ornate tapestries depicting epic battles and glorious conquests, their vibrant colors a stark contrast to the somber mood that now pervaded the space.


    At the center of the room stretched a long, imposing table surrounded by high-backed chairs, where the council members sat in tense silence. Her father, Huo Long, presided over the meeting, his expression an unreadable mask as he listened to the murmurings of his trusted subordinates.


    Flickering torches cast dancing shadows on the intricately carved walls, adding a sinister undertone to the already charged atmosphere. The rich scent of roasted meat and spiced wine lingered in the air, a poignant reminder of the feast interrupted by Huo Lian¡¯s dramatic entrance.


    Huo Lian¡¯s presence commanded immediate attention. Her long brown hair flowed behind her like a banner of defiance, and her eyes burned with fierce intensity. In her hands, she held the severed heads of Chief Lou and his son, a gruesome testament to her actions.


    Without a word, she strode to the center of the room and hurled the heads onto the polished wooden table with a resounding thud. The council members recoiled in horror, their faces a tableau of shock and disbelief. Her father''s expression remained impassive, though a flicker of something unreadable passed through his eyes.


    For a moment, the room seemed frozen in time, the weight of Huo Lian''s defiance hanging heavy in the air. She walked around the table with deliberate steps, each movement exuding confidence and authority, and seated herself in the spot that had once belonged to Chief Lou.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    Fixing her gaze on a nearby maid, Huo Lian commanded, her voice like a blade slicing through the air, ¡°Bring me some meat¡­ and a plateful of apples.¡±


    The maid quivered, caught between the immediate threat of Huo Lian¡¯s wrath and the even more terrifying prospect of Huo Long¡¯s retribution. Her hesitation was a palpable thing, her eyes darting frantically between the two powerful figures, her breath coming in shallow, panicked gasps.


    The silence was shattered by Huo Long¡¯s deep, resonant voice, carrying the weight of absolute authority. ¡°Bring the new chief what she demands. Also slaughter another beast and bring a barrel of wine. We shall celebrate the new chief''s first day.¡±


    The king¡¯s words resonated with a finality that left no room for dispute. His approval was unmistakable, a rare and precious thing. For the first time in eighteen years, Huo Lian and Huo Long made eye contact. The moment stretched between them, charged with unspoken emotion.


    Huo Long raised his cup in a rare gesture of acknowledgement, his eyes locked on his daughter¡¯s. The rest of the council, bound by the king¡¯s decree, had little choice but to follow suit. As one, they lifted their cups, their voices a chorus of reluctant respect.


    ¡°To the new chief,¡± Huo Long intoned, his voice a deep, commanding presence.


    ¡°To the new chief,¡± the council echoed, their tones a mix of deference and unease.


    With a single, deliberate motion, Huo Long emptied his cup, the rest of the council mimicking the gesture in a unified display. The wine flowed, a crimson river of acceptance, sealing Huo Lian¡¯s place within the very heart of the dynasty¡¯s power. She had finally been acknowledged and accepted.


    [Chief Huo Lian]


    I watched the crimson liquid swirl in my cup, feeling the weight of their acceptance. It was more than just a ritual; it was a turning point, a moment that would redefine my place in the world. As the wine touched my lips, I felt a surge of emotions¡ªvictory, relief, and a burning resolve. This was my moment. No longer a silent shadow, I was now Huo Lian, a powerful chieftain of the Huo Dynasty and soon the rightful ruler.


    The council''s eyes were on me, their expressions a mix of greed and apprehension. I had spent years in the shadows, training, waiting, and now, it was time to step into the light. Every decision I made from this point on would shape the future of our dynasty.


    My father''s acknowledgment was bittersweet, a reminder of the years of neglect and the man I had come to despise. Yet, his acceptance also meant I had surpassed his expectations, proving myself as a formidable force. I looked around the room, meeting the gaze of each council member. They had seen the blood, felt the shift in power, and now, they would witness my rise.


    In this moment of triumph, I vowed to myself that I would not just be a chief¡ªI would become the empress. My journey was far from over. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, but I welcomed them with open arms. The Huo Dynasty would be transformed under my rule, and I would ensure its glory.


    As I left the council room, the weight of the past lifted from my shoulders, replaced by the mantle of leadership. This was my dynasty now, and I would lead it with strength and unwavering determination. The path to the throne was clear, and I would walk it with purpose.

 Chapter 9 Inheritance

    Chapter 9 Inheritance


    [Zhen Jian]


    Today marked the first day Jian treated patients on his own, without the guiding presence of his master. As the afternoon sun cast long shadows through the clinic¡¯s windows, Jian leaned forward on the counter, boredom etched on his face. He had already seen his last patient a while ago, treating the usual ailments¡ªcommon colds and headaches¡ªwith swift precision. Each case was resolved effortlessly, leaving him with hours to spare before evening.


    Jian''s gaze wandered to the sword his master had given him yesterday. It was an old, rustic blade, its surface covered in a layer of dark, pitted corrosion. The hilt was simple, crafted from dark wood wrapped tightly in worn leather that had seen countless years of use. The guard, a plain crosspiece, bore the marks of age and countless battles but remained sturdy, a testament to its enduring reliability.


    With deliberate steps, Jian walked towards the sword and lifted it by its handle. It fit snugly in his calloused hands, as if it had been forged specifically for him. Stepping out into the back of the clinic, he stood still for a moment, raising the corroded blade.


    A sense of intimacy washed over him as he held the sword aloft. His master had said it was his grandfather¡¯s sword, but Jian had never known either of his grandparents. His father had been his best friend and sole confidant. Yet, this blade felt like the comforting hand of an older family member, someone who would protect and reassure him.


    Jian smiled, taking a deep breath before slashing down with the blade held in both hands. Instantly, a sweet aroma enveloped him. The air itself tasted like pumpkin spice, and he hungrily inhaled it. A second later, the aroma was gone, leaving Jian bewildered. "I could have sworn someone placed pumpkin pie in front of me. Maybe I¡¯m just hungry," he mused, chuckling to himself.


    He swung the sword again in the same fashion. The sweet aroma returned, warm and comforting, surrounding him in a blissful haze that made him forget everything else. A moment later, the scent disappeared again. Puzzled, Jian wondered what could be causing this phenomenon.


    Driven by curiosity, he kept his eyes open the next time he swung the sword. However, his lack of focus resulted in a poor form, and the aroma did not occur. "Huh, was it an olfactory hallucination? No way," he muttered. Determined to understand, he closed his eyes and corrected his form, swinging the sword once more. This time, the sweet aroma engulfed him again.


    Quickly opening his eyes, he realized the scent was emanating from the area around the sword. Whether it was his hands or the handle itself, he couldn¡¯t tell, but he craved that smell. Soon, he noticed that the aroma only manifested when he executed the sword slash perfectly. Any mistake, and the scent would not appear.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    Jian lost himself in the practice, performing the slash nearly six out of ten times perfectly. He didn¡¯t realize how addicted he had become to the smell. Hours passed, and eventually, the aroma stopped occurring. Looking at his hands with a frown, he saw that he was drenched in sweat, as if he had been caught in a rainstorm. The five-pound sword now felt impossibly heavy, nearly dragging on the floor due to his exhaustion.


    Laughing to himself, Jian thought, "It''s time for rest and a shower." After a quick bath and dinner, he fell asleep, feeling nothing different from his regular routine. However, inside his body, remarkable changes were taking place. Each breath he took of that sweet smell had altered his body at the cellular level. With each inhalation, impurities were expelled, purifying his body to a level seen only in late-foundation establishment cultivators. Although he hadn¡¯t refined his body to match their strength, his physical form was now comparable to theirs.


    Days passed, and Jian made it a routine to practice his sword swings. Three months went by since his master left, and Jian had diligently taken up sword practice. He began to favor dressing in white robes, reminiscent of his master, who had left many white robes for him to wear. Jian missed his master, and wearing the robes was a way to remember and honor him.


    Stepping out of the clinic, Jian drew the old sword from its sheath. He had cleaned it to the best of his ability, discovering that the blade had been black to begin with. Despite his efforts, it still bore many rusted and oxidized patches, the black blade a mishmash of black, green, and orange.


    Jian didn¡¯t mind. In just a few months, the sword had become like family to him. Whether it was because it had belonged to his grandfather or due to some intrinsic quality of the blade itself, he did not know. What he did know was that the sword, with all its imperfections, felt like an extension of himself¡ªa legacy he was proud to wield.


    Just like always, Jian positioned himself, ready to swing the blade. But today, something was different. A small white line began spreading from the base of the sword to its tip.


    "What is that?" he asked himself, perplexed.


    Curiosity got the better of him. He raised his non-dominant index finger to poke at the line. The moment he touched it, pain seared through his hand.


    "AHH!" he cried out, dropping the sword. The light vanished without a trace, leaving only a drop of blood on the grass. He felt a shiver of relief¡ªif he had poked it more, he might have lost his finger.


    Picking up the sword again, the white light reappeared. Jian decided to experiment. He approached a thick tree and touched it with the glowing edge of the sword. The white light cut through the tree like a hot knife through butter. He felt no resistance, only a smooth sensation in his hand.


    "Hmm, this would be helpful for precise cuts in surgery," he thought. His mind, always focused on his trade, raced with ways this newfound power could aid his patients. Satisfied with his discovery, he resumed his practice, perfecting his swings to the point where he could smell the fragrant air with each motion.


    Before he immersed himself in training, he heard light footsteps approaching. He turned to see a young boy calling out, "Doctor Zhen! My father is hurt!"

 Chapter 10 To Be A Doctor

    Chapter 10 To Be A Doctor


    [Doctor Zhen]


    The atmosphere crackled with tension as I recognized the boy as the village merchant''s son. Swiftly, I retrieved my satchel filled with medical equipment and herbs. "Lead the way," I instructed, my voice aiming for a delicate balance between firmness and reassurance. Urgently, the boy dashed off, and I followed closely behind, my senses keenly attuned to the impending confrontation.


    The village sprawled before us, a labyrinth of narrow paths and humble dwellings. It took us several minutes to navigate its twists and turns until we reached the storefront, where a grim tableau awaited us. Ten imposing figures stood before us, their faces contorted with malice, their very presence suffusing the air with menace.


    At the heart of the turmoil, a middle-aged man sat on the ground, his features twisted in agony as he clutched his bleeding arm. Beside him, a woman offered silent support, her eyes reflecting the fear and despair that hung heavy in the air.


    The leader of the gang, a behemoth of a man brandishing a menacing ax, bellowed his demands with a voice that reverberated like thunder. "We just need money to protect your store from damages. All the nearby villages pay for protection. Otherwise, who knows what might happen?"


    The laughter that followed was a cruel symphony of mockery, each note a dagger to the heart of the beleaguered couple. Tears welled in their eyes, their hope dwindling with each passing moment.


    Undeterred by the chaos, I pressed on through the crowd alongside the boy. "Father!" the boy cried out, his voice trembling with fear and desperation as he rushed to his parents'' side.


    The mother''s reprimand was gentle yet tinged with worry, her words a whispered plea for safety amidst the chaos. "Why did you come back? I told you to go home, and you even brought Doctor Zhen with you."


    "I had to find help," the boy replied, tears streaming down his face, his vulnerability a stark contrast to the brutality surrounding us.


    With a comforting pat on the boy''s head, I knelt beside the injured man, my hands steady as I retrieved the tools of my trade. "It''s okay. It''s my job to take care of things like this, right?" I said, my voice a steady anchor amidst the storm, my focus unwavering despite the chaos around us.


    As I tended to the man''s wounds, a sense of purpose filled me. "Thank you, Doctor Zhen. Now please leave; these people are dangerous," the man''s gratitude was a balm to my soul, a reminder of why I had chosen this path.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    But I was not yet done, for as a doctor, I knew that true healing required more than just treating the symptoms. I needed to address the root of the disease. With resolve in my heart, I turned to face the crowd, drawing my sword from its sheath. "Why don¡¯t you leave these poor folks alone? If you want, I can offer you some apples in exchange," I suggested, hoping to defuse the situation peacefully.


    Their mocking laughter echoed through the air, but I stood my ground, my gaze unwavering as I met the eyes of the gang''s leader. "Look at that piece of crap! It looks like it¡¯ll snap in half with just my hands!" one of them jeered.


    But then, a shift occurred. I saw the leader''s eyes narrow, his gaze fixing upon the strange white light dancing along the edge of my sword. His confidence wavered, sweat glistening on his brow. As a doctor, observation was a skill I had honed meticulously, and now it paid off.


    "Hey Xin, break that crappy sword," he commanded, his voice laced with false bravado.


    With resignation, I watched as Xin approached, his ax raised high in a mockery of violence. But when our blades clashed, there was no sound, only a heavy thud as Xin''s hands and ax fell to the ground. The crowd fell silent, disbelief hanging thick in the air.


    In that moment, as the dust settled and the chaos abated, I stood tall, my sword held aloft. The balance of power had shifted, and I knew that I had made a difference.


    As I approached to offer assistance, Xin, visibly shaken, scrambled away in terror, his wide eyes reflecting the fear that gripped his soul. The gang leader, jolted out of his stupor by Xin¡¯s frantic screams, stared at me with eyes widened in apprehension.


    The leader, a formidable figure, bowed deeply, his forehead nearly grazing the ground in a desperate plea for mercy. "Great Master, we did not know these people were under your protection. Please, have mercy on us. My people will never enter the village again. As a token of our gratitude and to ensure your mercy, we will prevent any hostile force from entering."


    Before I could utter a response, the leader''s commanding voice cut through the tense air, ordering his men to bow and forbidding them from turning their backs on the Great Master as they retreated. With backs bent at a perfect angle and eyes fixed on the ground, the gang members exited in a humbled procession, their departure a stark contrast to their earlier arrogance.


    Observing the scene with a mixture of disbelief and relief, the couple and the boy stood rooted to the spot, their wide eyes betraying their astonishment at the sudden turn of events. The boy, overcome with excitement, leaped into the air, his voice ringing out with admiration. "Doctor Zhen, you are so strong!"


    I let out a weary sigh, my gaze falling upon the bloody hands on the ground. In that moment of reflection, I couldn''t help but draw a grim conclusion: just as bacteria must be controlled and even beneficial under certain circumstances, so too must bad people.  If left unchecked, they would inevitably sow chaos and destruction.


    The couple''s voices broke through my thoughts, filled with gratitude as they extended an invitation. "Dr. Zhen, would you like to come and have a meal with us? It''s the least we can do."


    Turning my gaze skyward, I beheld the moon, its radiant glow casting a tranquil aura over the scene. The idea of a warm meal to soothe both body and mind was undeniably tempting. With a genuine smile, I turned to the couple. "I would love to. Do you happen to have any apples?"

 Chapter 11 Anger of the Commander

    Chapter 11 Anger of the Commander


    [Chief Huo Lian]


    After the execution of the Luo family, I was put in charge of all their affairs. As I sat through that very meal, Huo Long ordered me to bring all the Luo people under me before the day was over. I was surprised that my father spoke to me so openly, as if he had not ignored my very existence for the past 18 years. His actions felt shameful; he ignored me until I became useful. Would being a boy have made any difference? I doubted it. I guess this man¡¯s personality uses everyone and everything to his own benefit. Such a disgusting man.


    The moment my father opened his mouth to speak to me, I realized I hated him more than when he didn¡¯t speak. He transformed from being the father I hated to the man I hated, and now, after receiving his first order, he had become the ruler I hated. I even considered leaving. But then, I thought back to the promise I made to myself. I had worked too hard for the seat I now sat upon.


    I tried to probe for his strength with my perception, and again I felt that he was a mountain above mountains. Too formidable, I have heard that he entered the end of core formation ten years ago. I can give it some time. Once I am stronger than him, I will dethrone this shameless man myself. My goal is not to be chief; it is to be empress. I reminded myself.


    ¡°Congrats, new chief. Congratulations, new chief,¡± many other members of the council praised me for becoming chief at such a young age. But with every congratulations, their eyes remained on the two heads on the table, their gestures of congratulations empty and their words less than empty. I smiled thinking of their foolishness and gutlessness.


    All members left, including Huo Long. I stayed in. I ordered the guards, ¡°Go call the head butler and head maid at the Luo estate. You go to the Luo military camp and call all the officers. Say it''s urgent, and if not followed, they will be executed for treason.¡± Treason was not as simple as killing the traitor. Each member of the family would be killed, including women and children, to prevent any upheaval in the future.


    The two guards were terrified of me .I saw them staring at the blood stains on my armor as I spoke. They rushed to follow my orders. Moments later, five officers, the head butler. and the head maid arrived at the council room. I noticed earlier that only the chiefs and Huo Long were sitting at the council. Everyone else was standing. Since I was not asked to leave from the council room it meant that any member is allowed to use the council room; however, they cannot sit in anyone else''s seat, and non-council members are not allowed to sit. Knowing this was likely Huo Long¡¯s order, either act must be considered treasonous. However I do not care. I would not have the people in front of me sit even if they were allowed to. Nor would I sit in a seat I did not carve out with my own sword.


    The seven members of the House of Luo entered, and immediately their eyes darted towards the heads of their previous leaders. They did not show grief, nor did they show shock. The entire capital knew about what I had done. I wanted it that way.  By the time my meal was over, the corpses at the Luo estate should have been thrown out, without a burial preferably. No, to carry favor with me they probably threw their corpses by the trash to show me their new found loyalty. The staff worried about retribution and treatment under me, their new lord. Loyalty was indeed a great thing, but living is much greater.


    I looked at each member, gauging their expressions. I am not used to dealing with people, having spent most of my life rigorously training. I only know how to slice a tongue, not use it for eloquent speech. But I did catch the essence of the eyes and faces, their silent tales whispering volumes of one''s hidden intentions.As I narrowed my eyes, watching their every move, I slowly said, ¡°I am your lord and your military commander. I am the seventh chief of the Huo Dynasty. Do you have any objections?¡±If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Seven heads bowed, and seven loud voices recited, ¡°No objection, Lord Huo.¡± I scrunched my face; I hated my name. It meant I was attached to that man. But saying anything to these likely traitors was a bad thing.


    ¡°I will now be moving into the estate, the Lian estate,¡± I emphasized. ¡°I want all the furniture, all the floors, all the curtains, even the walls to be exchanged. Use whatever gold is available within the estate. I am sure the vault is still full, right?¡±


    The old butler swallowed and said, ¡°Of course, my Lord. Besides throwing the trash, we haven¡¯t touched anything since your last welcome.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± I looked at the five officers and said, ¡°Take me to the military grounds. Until the renovations are complete, I will be resting at the camp. I hope to have a new tent with all the new facilities.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my Lord!¡± yelled the five officers.


    My gaze locked onto the head maid''s quivering shoulders, her stance rigid, her eyes flickering with unease. She appeared like a cornered animal, teetering on the edge of fear and desperation.


    "Everyone outside except you," I asserted, my voice commanding obedience. The soldiers saluted, and the butler bowed, exiting the council room and leaving us in a tense silence.


    "What is your name?" I softened my tone, inching closer, though her flinch was evident. ¡°Li Na¡±, she said. Her voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid to be heard.


    Approaching her cautiously, I noticed the subtle traces of abuse etched around her neck, concealed beneath her uniform. Despite the bruises, her beauty shone through, a cruel contradiction to the torment she endured. My heart constricted with empathy, a reminder of the injustices rampant in our kingdom.


    Her trembling intensified with my proximity. Was it my presence that instilled such fear? I slowed my pace, tempering my aura to alleviate her distress.


    "Why are you trembling?" I inquired gently, barely audible. Li Na''s legs buckled beneath her, tears cascading down her cheeks as she sought solace in my embrace. Her anguish weighed heavily upon me, a burden I had never borne.


    "I apologize, my lord," she sobbed, her words heavy with anguish. "The maids have suffered at the hands of those men for so long."


    As I comforted her, a surge of fury ignited within me. Hatred for the perpetrators and for the apathy of our kingdom engulfed me in a blazing inferno. Li Na''s suffering mirrored the silent agony endured by countless women, a stark reminder of the pervasive cruelty lurking within our society. She appeared to be around thirty years old. My mother would be her age. This is the first time I have ever thought about her. My mind, filled with a single goal, now feels as if it has opened up. I was a frog in a well thinking of only my suffering, while the rest of the world had it so much worse than me.


    After her tears abated, Li Na straightened, resolving glimmering in her eyes. "I will prepare the estate for you, my lord," she pledged, her voice steadier now. "I will erase every trace of their vile presence." Her strength amazed me, a testament to her resilience.


    With a nod of affirmation, she departed, leaving me to ponder the depth of her fortitude. I, too, exited the council room, my mind consumed by thoughts of justice and reform.


    Releasing my aura, I observed as my officers staggered back, startled by the abrupt shift in energy. "Lead the way," I commanded, my voice resonating with authority tinged with righteous anger.


    As we journeyed to the military camp, Li Na''s tear-stained visage haunted my thoughts, fueling my determination to eradicate such atrocities. I vowed to shield the women under my command from harm, to ensure that their voices were heard and their suffering acknowledged.


    Arriving at the camp, I unleashed my full aura, the very air crackling with power. My officers paled, but pressed on. They know better than to complain. Good.


    Approaching the front lines, I addressed the soldiers with unwavering resolve. "I am Huo Lian," I declared, my voice echoing like thunder. "Each time I appear, you will show the utmost respect and discipline. You may refer to me as commander or Chief Huo Lian, and nothing else. Understood?"


    "YES COMMANDER!" they bellowed in unison


    ¡°Each one of you will follow discipline and not conduct a single atrocity on another. If you are found doing so that very moment you will be executed. Understood?¡±


    ¡°YES COMMANDER¡±


    ¡°Continue training.¡±


    With pride swelling in my chest, I commanded them to resume their training. This is my army. I will command them to be people worth leading.


    As I gazed up at the full moon, a surge of determination washed over me. Today, I felt anger for another''s suffering, a vow to right the wrongs and pave the way for a better tomorrow. With unwavering resolve, I pledged to lead my comrades to victory, united in our quest to vanquish the darkness that threatened to consume us.

 Chapter 12 Winds of Change

    Chapter 12 Winds of Change


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    After the meal at the shop owner''s home, I felt a pang of loneliness. It had been a wonderful evening, watching the couple and their son interact. The boy, Qin Lee was mischievous yet considerate, always finding ways to bring a smile to his mother''s face. His mother Qin Lan, she was loving and caring, her every gesture a testament to her affection. The father, Qin Ming was responsible and dependable, nevertheless he couldn''t help but spoil the little boy. Remembering the warmth of their family made me chuckle softly.


    I glanced up at the moon hanging in the cloudless night sky. It was full and radiant, yet it seemed as lonely as I felt. Memories flooded my mind: my master, the little girl I met in my childhood, my father, and finally, my mother¡ªthe woman who gave her life to bring me into this world. I sighed deeply. I never understood a mother''s love, but my mother clearly loved me more than her own life. I wished I could have experienced such love again at least once.


    A chuckle escaped me as I thought about my father. He wasn''t great at cooking or cleaning or much else, really. He was a bit of a mess, but he tried his best for me. Now, I am all alone, I thought, a tear slipping down my cheek even as I smiled. My hand instinctively went to the sword hanging at my waist. It seemed I would need my grandfather''s help to mend my heart tonight.


    Back at the clinic where I lived, I placed my satchel on its usual spot atop the counter and walked to the front. I grasped my sword firmly, closed my eyes, and tears began to flow. I didn¡¯t care to wipe them, there was no one here to hide them from. I raised the sword and slashed down with all my might. The aroma that accompanied the swing enveloped me, lingering longer than usual. I took deep, hungry breaths of the scent, each exhale a little release of my pent-up sorrow.


    I kept swinging, my strength increasing with every slash, my speed accelerating, and the glow on the sword growing brighter. Every movement released more tears and more fragrance. I lost myself in the rhythm, much like the first time I practiced with the sword. The magical effects meant nothing to me. The act of slashing was my only solace.


    I swung the sword not just for the addictive aroma, but because the sword felt like my last remaining family member. I wanted to be closer to it. By the time my eyes had dried, the beauty of dawn was breaking, leaving behind the misery of the night and bringing the hope of a new day.


    [Chief Huo Lian]


    I spent the night in my military camp, far from the familiar confines of my palace chamber. Surprisingly, I slept better than I ever had in my life. When I woke, I felt more refreshed and rejuvenated than I could ever remember. As I stretched, savoring the unfamiliar sensation of true rest, I heard a tentative voice at the entrance of my tent.


    "My lord, may I come in?" It was my head maid¡¯s voice, gentle yet firm.


    The maid from last night, Li Na, entered, carrying towels, with two guards following her, lugging a large wooden tub. The mingled scents of pine and fresh linen filled the air. "You can place the tub there," she instructed the guards.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    I blinked in confusion. "What is this for?" I asked, my voice still groggy from sleep.


    "My lord, I would like to help you bathe and get ready before you go to train," she replied, her tone respectful but insistent.


    "Why do I have to get ready to train? I''m going to get sweaty anyway," I protested, still baffled by the notion.


    The maid shook her head gently. "My lord, you need to appear fully ready before your army."


    I sighed, feeling a strange fatigue. I studying her closely. Her face was lined with years of hard work, yet there was a spark of kindness in her eyes.


    "Li Na, I don''t understand why you want to do this so badly, but if you''re doing this for me, know that I don''t truly care about getting ready. Nor do I care about my army''s impression. The soldiers should follow my orders or greet the gods."


    My words were not loud, but I saw the guards outside shiver uncontrollably. Li Na took a step forward and bowed. "Yes, my lord, this is for my own selfishness. Please, allow me to do so."


    I sighed again, resigned. "Guards, bring buckets of hot water."


    Li Na''s eyes sparkled with gratitude. "Thank you, my lord."


    I pondered for a moment, watching her. She was as old as my mother and had likely endured a life of abuse. Yet, the first thing she wanted to do was care for me. Some people are just too good.


    I did not know then that Li Na wanted to prepare me as a princess should. Unlike my usual routine of a quick splash of water, Li Na made me soak in the tub filled with fragrant herbs. She carefully washed my hair and combed it repeatedly, then dressed me meticulously. The whole process took an hour. Despite my silence, I could see she sensed my irritation.


    She must have just realized that she has gone too far.


    When we were done, I looked in the mirror. I looked more beautiful than I ever had, even the black armor I wore seemed was shining like an ebony jew. It was a great contrast to my skin. I hardly believed that my skin glow like this. Yet I was still irritated.


    Li Na stammered, "M-my lord, I am sorry."


    I took a deep breath, trying to quell my rising irritation. "It was out of good will," I repeated to myself. After what felt like an eternity, I sighed and said through gritted teeth, "Li Na, you will help me bathe only at night before bed, not in the morning before training."


    Li Na''s face lit up with a full smile. "Yes, my lord."


    I was about to start my training immediately by running around the capital, but I paused, thinking of Li Na¡¯s hard work. I decided I would focus on cultivation today instead. I walked back to my bed and instructed, "I will be focusing on cultivation today. You are welcome to stay, just do not disturb me."


    Li Na hesitated, then sighed. "Sorry, my lord, I have much to do at the estate. My goal is for you to sleep comfortably there tonight instead of in this horrid tent."


    I laughed softly. "No problem. Go ahead. I am counting on you, Li Na."


    Li Na bowed and walked out. As I watched her leave, I realized I had never spoken those words to anyone else before. Amazing. She helped me take one bath and she has become one of the closest people to me. Am I that hungry for attention? I mocked myself with a quiet laugh.


    I sat atop my bed and began to meditate, focusing on the teachings from the palace archives. Core formation stage is much more straightforward than the formation establishment stage, albeit more tedious. Ten cores are needed to advance. I have to accumulate enough qi to fill my body, then refine it into a core. I had already made one, but how long would it take to make all ten? The higher one cultivates the faster they accumulate qi, however they also have more qi to accumulate.


    My eyes turned cold as I thought about the future. How long until I become empress and end the suffering throughout the kingdom? I thought of Li Na and her hardships, and my resolve to become empress grew even stronger. I immersed myself fully in cultivation.

 Chapter 13 New Moon

    Chapter 13 New Moon


    [Chief Huo Lian]


    I awoke, realizing that I had spent the entirety of the day cultivating. The gnawing hunger in my stomach reminded me of the time lost. Glancing to my left, I saw Li Na asleep with her head resting on the table. Her delicate face, framed by strands of loose hair, bore the signs of exhaustion. She must have completed all her work at the estate. I felt a surge of gratitude for her competence and dedication. Letting her sleep, I prepared myself for what lay ahead, knowing it would not be pretty.


    Stepping out of the commander¡¯s tent, I was greeted by the inky blackness of a moonless night. The absence of the moon felt symbolic, a fitting backdrop for the transformation I was about to enact. The old chief, lazy and ineffective, was gone. In his place stood a new force, determined to restore order and strength.


    "Go call all the officers immediately," I instructed the guard, who looked terrified before running off to carry out my command. Moments later, the five officers assembled, still in their uniforms, their faces betraying a mixture of confusion and unease.


    I scrutinized each one. Despite catching a faint whiff of alcohol, I deemed it acceptable given their duties had ended hours ago. Nodding, I posed the question that would determine their fate. "Do any of you have slaves? Particularly women."


    They looked puzzled until Li Ming, my second in command, spoke up. "Commander, slaves are very expensive, especially women. Only nobles own slaves."


    I nodded, understanding the truth in his words. To sustain oneself in this harsh environment was challenging enough; maintaining slaves would be even more burdensome. Our kingdom lacked abundant farmland or resources, relying instead on our resilient people. Even though many cultivation beasts lived here, few were strong enough to hunt them.


    My years of continuous training had left me somewhat detached from common sense. "Do we have any said nobles in our army?" I asked.


    The officers exchanged uneasy glances before looking down. "Ahh, I see. Bring everyone that is confirmed to have a female slave," I ordered.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    The five officers¡ªLi Ming, Wang Ying, Liu Fang, Chen Tao, and Sun Hui¡ªstiffened. Li Ming seemed to want to speak but hesitated. "Li Ming, you are my second; you should only hold back if you think it would upset me."


    Li Ming laughed nervously before clarifying. "Commander, this will anger you, but there are over a hundred martial artists who are noblemen and have confirmed slaves."


    My eyes widened in realization. "So, the sons of nobles who are failures at combat come to serve under the weakest chief and simply enjoy life." A cold smile crept across my lips, causing the officers to swallow nervously. "Sun Hui," I addressed the youngest and most talented officer, "go get a list of all the noble soldiers within my army, with their names and addresses."


    Li Ming sighed, knowing bloodshed was imminent.


    It took seven hours to execute 135 people. Though I could have ended their lives with a mere thought, I chose a more hands-on approach. We freed all the slaves, employing them under my estate. Listening to the abused accounts of their suffering, my anger grew dangerously intense. Thankfully, my officers managed the transition, placing the freed individuals under my estate¡¯s employment. Old butler Ran Yi was pleased to have the extra help, having endured much to protect the maids from the Luo hogs.


    My reason for the purge was clear: these men disrupted the order within my army, much like the Luo father and son. I challenged those around me because I held the power to do so. As the sixth strongest in the kingdom, where might is right, I exercised mine to rid us of these parasites. Now, all the nobility is against me, but they dare not challenge me directly. They must plead to the council members, who consider themselves demi-gods, far above mere martial artists'' complaints.


    Returning to camp, I saw Li Na waiting outside my tent. Her face flushed red with embarrassment of falling asleep the night. I couldn¡¯t help but laugh. Seeing me laugh, Li Ming and the others dropped to the ground, pleading, "No more, my lord, please. The rest of our soldiers are good people who care for their wives and daughters."


    I stopped laughing and kicked all five of them. "You idiots, I''m not laughing to kill more. What do you think I am, a demon?" Given yesterday¡¯s events, it wasn¡¯t unreasonable for them to think so. Approaching Li Na, I expressed my desire for breakfast, pleasantly surprised to find it already prepared on the table¡ªthe same table where she had been sleeping.


    Li Na had also kindly prepared food for the officers. They took the food from the table and started eating while standing. Li Na looked at them, then back at me, waiting for me to tell them to sit. But I chose not to. I was still upset that such atrocities occurred under their watch, even though I had verified that they committed none through accounts from their family members and neighbors.


    "Thank you, Li Na, for the food," I said. "You five have not slept yet. Go to sleep and wake up within four hours. You will train with the rest of the men."


    I saw Sun Hui almost whimper. I knew my subordinates feared me more than before, but I had vowed to make them men worth leading. Everything else could wait. Now that the parasites were removed, it was time to forge warriors out of these soldiers.


    ---


    Three months passed in a blink. When I opened my eyes again, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. A second core was now rotating in my mind''s eye. I was not only twice as strong as before but also had twice the energy.


    I exited the tent, feeling the fresh air on my face. The officers were waiting for me, their expressions grim. "What has happened?" I asked, my voice solemn.


    The officers exchanged uneasy glances before one stepped forward, kneeling. "Commander, we are at war."

 Chapter 14 Shadows of War

    Chapter 14 Shadows of War


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    During these three months, my life settled into a monotonous rhythm. Every day, I treated a few villagers and trained rigorously. Treatment and training. Training and treatment. My only forms of entertainment were the interactions with my patients, moments I indulged in sniffing my favorite drug, and a new hobby was rereading my mother''s romance novel.


    The village, usually a quiet and static place, had started to buzz with increased movement. There were rumors of the Huo Dynasty facing threats from the east, from the formidable Xiyun Dynasty. Normally, I wouldn''t worry, living at the base of the largest mountain in the nation, nestled right below the capital. But the news was grim¡ªthe battles were not going in our favor. The Huo Dynasty, despite its war-forged origins, was still a relatively new kingdom. My father used to recount how, before the kingdom was established, our lands were a battleground for eight warring tribes, each vying for supremacy without a clear victor. It was only about fifteen years ago that one tribe managed to unite the rest under the threat of eradication. But how could these nomadic tribes stand against the legacy of dynasties that had endured for millennia, like the Xiyun Dynasty to the east?


    I was sitting in the village hall, the air filled with the scent of burning wood and the chatter of worried villagers. As the only doctor here, I held a special place in their hearts, also I was well liked since childhood due to my father''s kind demeanor. The villagers passionately debated how to respond to the threat of invasion and what our dynasty might do. I, however, was engrossed in my mother¡¯s favorite romance novel, each page a refuge from the chaos around me. I was grateful the book had no cover; otherwise, I¡¯d be too embarrassed to read it in public. Without a cover, I must have looked like a young scholar deep in research, not a man lost in a cheesy love story.


    ¡°Dr. Zhen, what do you think?¡± a voice broke through my reverie.


    I looked up, realizing I hadn¡¯t been listening. I couldn¡¯t let them think I was reading a romance novel. I almost blurted out my thoughts on how the male lead¡¯s antics to win over the female lead were over the top, but I caught myself just in time.


    ¡°Dr. Zhen?¡± the same man asked again.


    ¡°Ahem, sorry. I was lost in thought about what I was reading. Could you repeat the question?¡±


    ¡°No problem, doctor. We know how much you care about the village. We asked if we should move because we¡¯re situated directly below the capital. If the capital is attacked, we might get involved.¡±


    I pondered for a moment. ¡°Hmm, I don¡¯t really know what the right option is. However, I shall remain here.¡±


    Another villager chimed in, ¡°Why, doctor? You should value your life.¡±


    I smiled, feeling the weight of my words. ¡°My mother and father are here. I will not leave.¡±


    No one could question that. Where my parents are, that¡¯s where I¡¯ll stay. Who could argue with that?


    The meeting concluded with the decision that everyone should do what they felt was best. Some people left immediately, others began packing, and some, like me, chose to remain. Those who stayed were mostly the elderly, unable to travel far, or people who had abandoned city life for the forest''s tranquility.


    I decided to head towards a waterfall I recently discovered, still clutching my mother¡¯s romance novel. The roar of the waterfall was a soothing backdrop, its mist mingling with the earthy scent of the forest. There was a large rock near the water where I spent most of my free time. After seeing my last patient, I often came here to practice my sword swings. I felt my movements were more powerful when my mind was calm, the fragrance was also stronger with stronger swings.


    Leaning back against the tree, I gazed up at the towering waterfall, always awestruck by the mountain''s height. Atop that mountain was the capital city, the last place I visited with my father. It was also where I met that pretty girl and promised to become a doctor. I smiled to myself, thinking, ¡°I did it, hahah. I hope you accomplished your dream too.¡±


    [Chief Huo Lian]


    I stood before my troops, clad in my armor as black as night. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and metal, a testament to the rigorous training we had undergone. Four months ago, these soldiers saw me as a spoiled and angry princess. Now, they respect me. The change was palpable. In these first three months, I hadn''t slept or eaten and spent the entire time cultivating pushing myself to the limit. And after awakening I spent the last month training them. My relentless dedication had earned their admiration. We were once warring people; we respect strength and admire hard work.


    "We are at war," I declared, my voice steady and resolute.


    I scanned the faces of my soldiers. There was no shock in their eyes¡ªjust determination. The rumors of our struggle must have spread further than I thought. Many undisciplined men had been weeded out, replaced by those who were stronger, more resilient. These were men I could fight with, wield like a finely honed sword.


    "We will not wait for the invaders to come to our homes. I will take our finest and attack the strongholds they have taken. We will make a comeback and win this war. Are you ready for victory?"


    "YES, COMMANDER!" they roared in unison, their voices a thunderous echo in the cold morning air.


    I nodded, feeling the weight of my sword at my side. My first true battle was against a lazy chief who had abused his power his entire life. He couldn''t be compared to the war veterans of the Xiyun Dynasty. Training with my soldiers was beneficial for them, but I needed to get used to my strength faster. Should I kill another bastard chief? No, we needed to appear unified. Otherwise, it would be better to hand over our kingdom on a silver platter.


    But why were they attacking us? I didn¡¯t question it before because my mind was preoccupied with my goal to ready my men for war. But now that I think about it I can''t understand why. The Xiyun Dynasty had the fertile flatlands while we were surrounded by rocks and mountainous ranges. What could have fueled their drive to start an all-out attack against us? If I understood this, I could win the war easily. But the lack of information given to me was likely due to their prejudice against my gender. Even at a time like this, the old bastards couldn''t get away from their pre-established beliefs.Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Wait. The man instantly ordered me to command over Luo¡¯s forces, yet now, when we are at war, he isn''t using his resources to the fullest. Something is wrong with the palace.


    Chapter 15 War Games


    [Chief Huo Lian]


    "Second!" I called out.


    "Present, Commander," Li Ming responded immediately.


    "Go to the Lian estate and bring all the personnel here," I ordered.


    He looked confused but knew better than to question me. "Yes, my lord."


    I had a bad feeling about this. As I made my way towards the palace, my walking speed was brisk, but I took my time to observe the surroundings. People were leaving left and right. Why did it appear that the common people knew something that I, the chief of the empire, did not?


    Approaching the gates of the palace, I felt a surge of unease. The palace, a place I would rather not see, held the answers to my questions. The gates opened naturally, my bloody image of a few months ago still holding significance in their hearts.


    I walked straight into the council room, the scent of incense and old parchment filling the air. All members of the council were present. Huo Long looked up at me and said, "Good, I was about to call for you."


    All members of the council sat. Huo Long looked at each member for a moment before speaking slowly.


    "The Xiyun Dynasty is not responsible for the attack."


    Chaos erupted in the council room. I was too confused¡ªthis contradicted the official letter. Huo Long raised his hand, and the chatter ended.


    "Let me be clear," he said. "They are the sword; the hand is someone else. This hand is our greatest concern. They seem powerful, wealthy, and unyielding. I don''t know what they could possibly want from us, but they appear to be unhappy that the mountains have united. This attack seems to have been in the works for many years now."


    The realization hit me like a punch to the gut. There was a more sinister force at play, one that threatened not just our lands but our very existence. The air in the room grew heavier, the weight of our predicament pressing down on us all.


    The council room was thick with the scent of incense and tension. My eyes scanned the faces of the gathered chiefs, each etched with the lines of age and experience, each carefully masking their thoughts. The flickering candlelight cast shadows that danced across the walls, amplifying the gravity of our situation.


    "They know about our strategic locations and the number of troops in each place," Huo Long stated, his voice a deep rumble that reverberated through the chamber. He paused, letting the weight of his words settle over us. The air was heavy with the scent of burning wood and sweat.


    "Wait, doesn''t that mean we have a spy?" I thought to myself looking around the room.


    Dammit. I knew these savages were not to be trusted, but to go so far as to sell themselves to another master? My fists clenched involuntarily at the thought. Huo Long never directly said there was a spy, but his eyes scrutinized everyone¡¯s expressions, searching for a flicker of guilt.


    The realization hit me like a cold splash of water. No wonder there had been no offensive yet. If Huo Long ordered one of the chiefs to fight a specific army and that chief was the spy, it would mean he had let the spy go free with an entire army. This was a dire situation. The one who volunteers to fight is likely the spy.


    The council room fell into a heavy silence. All these old dogs knew how to keep calm and collected, but I had a goal. I could not let this kingdom fall. I promised myself that I would be empress of these lands, that I would bring peace to my people. I could not let these old tricks hinder my goals.


    "I volunteer the Lian estate to charge in and make an offensive attack," I loudly proclaimed, breaking the silence. The shock was palpable. Every head turned, eyes wide with surprise.


    Huo Long''s gaze bore into mine, a mixture of curiosity and scrutiny. "Hmmm, you want to go and fight?" he asked, staring at my determined face.


    "Yes, my king. I will use a hit-and-run tactics. I am confident." I replied, standing firm. The room felt suffocating, but I held my ground. I didn''t ask too many questions; the spy was likely here. A hit-and-run tactic might not be the most effective against an invading force, but it would confirm two things: the enemy knew every conversation that occurred in this room, and how I, a new commander, would fare against them.


    General Zheng¡ªthe man I am destined to face. Back at camp, I gathered the people from the Lian estate, ordering them to act as logistics and support members of the army. The real reason, however, was my oath to protect them. I knew the spy might make a move on them. I also moved all the treasure, leaving the estate devoid of anything of interest. Now, I could have no distractions.


    This is my first mission as a commander. I will end my enemies and protect my comrades. General Zheng is a formidable warrior, rumored to have made his second core, just like me. I will not risk a straight battle with him, though. I have little more than 5,000 troops, mostly regular martial artists, a few hundred at the qi-gathering stage, and only five foundation establishment warriors. And, of course, myself. A core formation stage.


    As I surveyed the camp, the smell of campfires and the sight of soldiers preparing for battle filled my senses. The stark contrast between our humble encampment and the enemy''s overwhelming numbers was daunting. They had more than 50,000 men, many of them at the qi-gathering and foundation establishment stages.


    The terrain was our only advantage. This was our homeland, where every path was treacherous and mountainous. Their horses would be useless on the hard, rocky terrain.Hit-and-run tactics were perfect for my army. I could see the jagged peaks of the mountains surrounding us, their shadows offering both a challenge and a shield.


    I took a deep breath, the cool mountain air filling my lungs. "Well, let the war games begin, with both hidden and open enemies," I whispered to myself, steeling my resolve.


    ***


    The following night under the cover of darkness, my elite troops and I moved stealthily through the rugged terrain, our steps silent as we approached the enemy camp. The moon cast an ethereal glow over the landscape, illuminating our path as we crept closer to our target.


    As we neared the outskirts of the enemy camp, I signaled for my troops to fan out, each group taking up strategic positions overlooking the encampment. The scent of wood smoke and sweat hung heavy in the air, mingling with the anticipation of battle.


    With a silent command, we launched our attack. Like shadows in the night, we darted in and out of the camp, striking swiftly and retreating before the enemy could muster a proper defense. The chaos was palpable as screams echoed through the night and the clash of steel filled the air.


    General Zheng emerged from his tent, his presence commanding respect and instilling fear in his troops. But even he was caught off guard by the speed and precision of our assault. We moved with calculated efficiency, exploiting weaknesses in the enemy''s defenses and inflicting maximum damage before disappearing into the darkness once more.


    It was a relentless onslaught, a barrage of hit-and-run attacks that kept the enemy off balance and prevented them from mounting a coordinated response. We targeted supply lines, destroyed key infrastructure, and disrupted communication channels, sowing chaos and confusion among our adversaries.


    But General Zheng was no novice. With each passing moment, he adapted his strategy, fortifying his defenses and mobilizing his troops to counter our attacks. The battle became a deadly game of cat and mouse, with both sides vying for control of the battlefield.


    As the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, we made one final push, striking with all the fury and determination we could muster. We inflicted as much damage as we could before slipping away into the shadows, leaving the enemy reeling and demoralized.


    The battle was over, but the war remained far from won. We had demonstrated our capability to strike with speed and precision, yet General Zheng would not rest until he had exacted his revenge. As we regrouped in the safety of the mountains, I understood that our struggle was far from finished. However, this successful hit-and-run attack bolstered our strength and resolve to ultimately claim victory. We managed to eliminate 2,000 of their 50,000 troops without suffering a single casualty. It was a small victory, but even the smallest spark can ignite a great fire.


    As dawn approached, we melted back into the mountains, leaving the enemy camp in disarray. We had struck hard and fast, and though we had not defeated them, we had shown them the cost of their invasion.


    Back in our camp, the scent of blood and sweat mingled with the fresh morning air. My men were weary but victorious in spirit. We had survived our first engagement, and more importantly, we had sown doubt and confusion among our enemies.


    This was just the beginning. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but I would lead my people through it. For my kingdom, for my promise, I would not falter. The war games had begun, and I was ready.

 Chapter 15 Poor General Zheng

    Chapter 15 Poor General Zheng


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I heard once from an old villager that "war never changes". But this saying still eludes me. Shouldn''t it be war doesn''t change anything; nothing much has changed in the village. We have fewer villagers, I have fewer patients, and more time to swing my sword or read books. But nothing else is much different.


    The gang that attacked the merchant is still in the outskirts. Maybe they are keeping their promise. They might think I would protect them. Honestly if they remain and keep their part of the deal, I wouldn''t mind lend them a hand. All I know is to swing my sword; I have never truly been in a fight, but I guess I can manage something if the time comes. Sigh, I''d rather not get involved with this mess.


    That merchant family also decided to stay. That was truly strange; a merchant should definitely have contacts outside of the village. But he said, ¡°No, I rather like the environment here. My son was born here, and it''s quiet. If I leave, I have to start over, and it would be hard to find such a tranquil place.¡±


    I agree with him for the most part; this place has its charm. I learned from the villagers that my family moved here in my father¡¯s generation. He was married, and my mother was pregnant with me when they arrived at our farmstead. I wonder where they lived before and what they did before being farmers.


    I once thought that my father was some battle veteran or war hero because of his large muscles and tall stature. But he would laugh and say, ¡°No, I¡¯m scared of fighting.¡± I thought that was such a silly answer, but I never remember him even having an argument with anyone. I just thought he was just too kind too. Well, that does not matter now.


    Looking at the moon, it seems it''s time to close up the clinic. I walk to the clinic to lock it. Every week, I go back to the farm, clean the house, visit my parents, and then sleep there in my room. That was the plan today too, but it seems sleep will be hard today.


    I hear people rushing from the south. The village is quite spread out, but if someone was to enter the village from the south, they would need to pass my clinic first. I guess I was the watchdog and doctor, hahaha.


    My laugh ends soon when I notice around 250 men in front of me. They were each holding torches that lit up their angry expressions. Why do they look like someone urinated on their ancestorial tombs?  Looking closer their skin appears slightly more tanned than mine¡ªmountain folk like us don¡¯t get much sunlight. It was clear they weren¡¯t locals.


    ¡°Sorry, sirs, the clinic is closed for the night. Please come again tomorrow morning,¡± I say, trying to keep my voice steady.


    The one leading them was the tallest, with a large, imposing physique. I couldn¡¯t help thinking, why is everyone I meet taller than me these days?


    The man laughs and walks forward, his voice booming. ¡°Little man, I am making this village my base of operations from now on. You can join me or die! Hahahaha!¡±


    ¡°You said so much but didn¡¯t even introduce your own name,¡± I retort, feeling amused. ¡°Are you scared of something, sir?¡±


    The man stops laughing, his face contorting with rage. ¡°Scared?¡± he repeats, like a broken record. ¡°Scared? When has the great General Zheng ever been scared?¡±


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    He looks truly upset, but for some reason, I find it really amusing. I think about what I could say to enrage him further, but not being used to such tasks, I give up.


    I simply ask, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°Ahhhhhhhhhh!¡± he loudly screams. I cover my ears; the scream is so annoyingly loud. I guess I managed to piss him off. Haha, yay me.


    The man, however, does not stop with just a scream. He pulls out a spear from his back and leaps high into the air, aiming to strike me down. I watch as the moonlight glints off the spearhead, his attack a blur of movement.


    Instinctively, I unsheathe my old, rustic sword. In the dark moonlit night, the only form of light I have is the bright white glow emanating from my sword. Unlike before where only the edge was white, now it¡¯s hard to find my grandfather¡¯s sword in my hand. Most of the blade is a bright white. Holding the handle makes me feel reassured, but never being in a fight makes the prospect unnerving, yet strangely exciting.


    As General Zheng descends upon me, I take a deep breath, focusing on his movement. Time seems to slow. I sidestep his initial thrust, feeling the rush of air as the spear slices past me. The ground shakes greatly as he lands, his heavy boots creating a crater in the earth.


    His eyes blaze with fury as he swings the spear again, this time in a wide arc meant to slice me in two. I duck low, my heart pounding in my chest, filled with excitement. I never thought I would enjoy being in a battle so much. I can smell the metallic scent of blood on him¡ªa reminder of his violent life.


    I swing my sword upward, the blade barely missing the shaft of his spear. It seems he is wary of the white light. Our weapons do not clash once. As we dodge each other¡¯s blows, my excitement increases with every move. He sends a flurry of spear thrusts at me. I dodge everyone as if they have slowed down for me, which surprises even me. Dodging the last one, I slash my sword at him, making Zheng stumble slightly. But he recovers quickly, roaring with anger.


    ¡°You¡¯ll pay for that, little man!¡± he snarls, thrusting his spear forward again.


    This time, I parry with it; my sword cuts the metallic spear in half lengthwise and disarms him. He is now holding a part of his spear in either hand. The look of shock on his face is almost comical.


    Seizing the moment, I step in close, my sword aimed at his throat. ¡°Yield, General Zheng,¡± I commanded, my voice steadier than I feel.


    For a moment, I dared to hope that General Zheng might heed my command. The tension hung thick in the air, palpable like the crackle of impending thunder. But then, with a guttural growl that seemed to reverberate through the very earth beneath us, he lunged at me, his fury unleashed in a barehanded assault.


    There was no time to think, only to react. My sword, a trusty companion I affectionately called Grandpa for its relation to my grandfather I have never met, moved almost of its own accord. With a fluid motion, it sliced through the air, a shimmering arc of blazing white seeking its target.


    General Zheng''s roar turned to a guttural cry of pain as my blade found its mark, cutting deep into his side. He stumbled, falling to the ground with a heavy thud, his hands instinctively clutching the wound, disbelief etched across his features like cracks in weathered stone.


    As he looked up at me, his eyes filled with a mixture of agony and astonishment, I felt a surge of conflicting emotions. But there was no room for hesitation now.


    ¡°Tell your men to leave,¡± I commanded, my voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through my veins.


    With a nod that seemed almost feeble in its resignation, General Zheng managed to muster the strength to shout, ¡°Retreat!¡±


    The men, seeing their leader defeated, hesitated only for the briefest of moments before turning and fleeing into the cloak of the night, their forms melting into the darkness like shadows retreating from the dawn. The village was safe, for now.


    With a sigh of relief, I sheathed Grandpa, the weight of the sword a comforting presence at my side. I watched the retreating figures until they disappeared from sight, the adrenaline of battle slowly receding, leaving behind a sense of weary accomplishment.


    But as I took in the aftermath of our clash, I couldn''t help but notice the destruction wrought upon the once-peaceful surroundings. The earth was torn and scarred, bearing witness to the violent dance of combat.


    I glanced back at the clinic, its thankfully untouched by the chaos that had unfolded just moments before. It was a stroke of luck that I had stepped far enough away; otherwise, it might not have still been standing.


    Reflecting on the fight, I couldn''t shake the sensation that lingered in the air, the fragrance was much stronger back then than it normally is. Also it seemed that even General Zheng couldn''t smell the fragrance. Am I the only one that can smell it? With a wry smile, I thought that the fragrance itself raveled in the chaos.


    Haha, what a curious thought. But amidst the exhaustion that settled upon me like a heavy cloak, I couldn''t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The short-lived skirmish may have been draining, but it had been undeniably exhilarating, I also learned something new about myself. Battles are quite interesting.


    As I turned to leave, my footsteps echoing in the silence that followed the departure of our would-be assailants, I couldn''t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning. There were storm clouds gathering on the horizon, and I knew that the tranquility of the village hung precariously in the balance.


    But for now, in this fleeting moment of peace, I allowed myself a small smile. The village was safe, and for that, I was grateful.

 Chapter 16 Then there were 6

    Chapter 16 Then there were 6


    [Chief Huo Lian]


    "He left?!" The words tasted bitter on my tongue as I spat them out, disbelief hanging heavy in the air.


    I was sitting at the breakfast table with Li Na, enjoying a cup of hot tea. The fragrant steam curled up from the cup, mingling with the morning air, the scent of jasmine soothing my nerves. The world outside seemed serene, the sunlight filtering through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the wooden floor. Suddenly, an officer approached, his expression grave as he handed me a report. The crisp paper felt cold in my hands, a stark contrast to the warmth of the tea.


    Opening it, I read that the army of 48,000 ¨C the same force from which we had killed 2,000 soldiers two nights ago ¨C had retreated in the middle of the night. I looked up, my eyes searching the faces of my officers for answers. They mirrored my confusion.


    "Commander, apparently General Zheng was heavily wounded last night," one of them ventured, the uncertainty in his voice palpable.


    "Huh?" The word slipped out before I could stop it. My mind raced. We attacked two nights ago. Timing was crucial to keep our ambushes unpredictable. Attacking nightly would only make us predictable and vulnerable to counter-attacks. My strategy was to keep the enemy sleepless, on edge, and then strike when they least expected it. But this ¨C an attack I hadn¡¯t ordered ¨C left me perplexed. I glanced around the room, my eyes asking, "Was it one of you?"


    One officer laughed nervously. "Commander, if we could take credit for fighting a core formation stage cultivator, we''d be beaten to death by our colleagues."


    The room filled with chuckles, and I nodded, the corners of my mouth lifting slightly. But who had intervened? A secret protector within our kingdom? My thoughts drifted to the old man who had healed me when I was a child. Could it be him? No, he was more of a hermit, acting on whims.


    "Do we know where he was attacked?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.


    The officers shook their heads. "All we know for sure, Commander, is that it happened close by."


    "Hmm," I mused. "Somewhere close by."


    At that moment, I heard the ragged breathing of a soldier. "Commander, urgent message!" he gasped, staggering into the room.


    I saw an unfamiliar face, drenched in sweat, his uniform soaked. "Commander, you are summoned at the palace. It''s urgent."


    I nodded, a sense of foreboding settling in my chest. "Probably regarding the departure of the enemy¡¯s main army," I thought aloud. A smile tugged at my lips. If the main army was gone, we had won the war. I had hoped to distinguish myself further, but at least my men were safe. I owed thanks to the mysterious benefactor who had attacked General Zheng.


    Turning to Li Na, I said, "You are in charge. Watch the men and discipline them as you see fit. If they question you, tell them your word is my word."


    I noticed the officers swallowing nervously. Li Na laughed, nodding. "As the lord orders."


    I moved with a light step, my hands clasped behind my back. The air outside seemed sweeter, the tension of imminent danger lifted. The thought that my people no longer had to fear for their lives every second was a relief.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    Arriving at the palace, I was greeted by one of the Chiefs. His name was Chief Yi Lao, his face alight with joy. "Congratulations, Commander! You ended this war perfectly."


    I raised my hand. "We had outside help. I was about to inform His Highness."


    Chief Yi Lao nodded. "Follow me. His Highness is with the council. They¡¯re reviewing construction projects to enhance security."


    "Good idea," I remarked, following him through the palace grounds. Yet, something about the situation felt off. I eyed the chief, noting his strength. He was only slightly stronger than the old perv I had once killed. This was what happened when one abused power instead of training ¨C others surpass you.


    True to his word, the entire council, including Huo Long, awaited us at a table overlooking a majestic waterfall cascading down an enormous cliff. The scene was breathtaking, the mist from the waterfall cooling the air, a reminder of the beauty we were fighting to protect.


    I approached the assembly with confidence. "Your Majesty, the enemy forces have fled. The war has been won."


    But it was not Huo Long who answered me. A man seated on Huo Long¡¯s right spoke for the first time, his voice cutting through the tension like a blade. He held a position second only to Huo Long himself, his silence in previous meetings now shattered. His sudden speech sent a shiver down my spine, leaving me to wonder why he had remained silent until now and why his voice sounded so fraught with emotion.


    His frustrated look and the sight of his bleeding hand, a deep gash oozing crimson from wrist to forefinger, set off warning bells in my mind. His laughter rang out, chilling in its callousness. "That useless general couldn''t handle one little girl," he jeered, his tone dripping with contempt.


    My guard rose, instincts screaming at me to be ready for anything. Glancing at Huo Long, I expected to find him reacting, but he remained unmoved. Wait.


    My gaze locked onto him, my heart pounding in my chest. Three seconds passed, each one stretching into eternity. He wasn''t breathing.


    A chorus of laughter erupted from the other five members, echoing through the air like a sinister symphony. The second Chief, Zhang Wei, spoke again, his words like daggers aimed at my heart. "Yes, Huo Lian, your father is dead, and we killed him," he declared, displaying his wound as if it were a trophy. "Even though he was poisoned for so long, he was still a pain in the ass to kill."


    I unsheathed my sword, the steel glinting in the sunlight as I aimed it at him. But as I assessed his strength, a sinking feeling settled in my stomach. He stood before me like a mountain, his presence overwhelming. I couldn''t gauge his strength; it was beyond my comprehension.


    He and the other traitors rose from their seats, a united front against me. His words cut through the air like a whip, taunting and cruel. "Now it''s time to unite father and daughter," he sneered.


    With that, they attacked, their movements synchronized and relentless. I braced myself, every muscle tensed for the battle that was about to unfold.


    The six council members surged toward me, their movements a deadly dance of treachery and power. I gripped my sword tightly, every sense heightened, the roar of the waterfall below me blending with the rush of blood in my ears.


    The first strike came from Zhang Wei. His blade sliced through the air with lethal precision. I parried, the force of the blow reverberating up my arm. I countered with a swift thrust, aiming for his exposed side, but he dodged effortlessly, a cruel smile twisting his lips.


    Before I could recover, another council member, Chief Lin Yao, lunged at me, his weapon arcing toward my head. I ducked, rolling to the side, and came up swinging. My blade found purchase, slashing across his thigh. He cried out in pain, staggering back, but there was no time to savor the small victory.


    The others closed in, their attacks coming from all directions. I moved on instinct, blocking and dodging, my sword a blur of steel. Despite my skill, their combined strength was overwhelming. Each clash of blades sapped my energy, each narrow escape leaving me more breathless.


    "Is this the best you can do?" Zhang Wei taunted, his eyes gleaming with malice.


    I ignored him, focusing on the fight. I spun, bringing my sword down in a powerful arc aimed at his shoulder. He deflected it with a swift upward strike, the force of the impact nearly knocking my weapon from my grasp.


    Another council member, Chief Wu Xian, seized the opportunity, his sword cutting a shallow gash across my back. I gasped, pain flaring through my body. Desperation fueled my movements, but my strikes were growing slower, my defenses weaker.


    One of them, Chief Han Bo, caught my wrist, twisting it cruelly. My sword fell from my grasp, clattering to the ground. A powerful kick to my midsection sent me sprawling, the breath knocked from my lungs. I tried to rise, but a boot pressed down on my chest, pinning me in place.


    Zhang Wei loomed over me, his blade glinting in the sunlight. "Your father always resented you, Huo Lian," he spat, pressing the tip of his sword against my throat. With a sudden surge of strength, I shoved his foot away and rolled to the side, scrambling to my feet. But it was too late. The others were on me in an instant, their combined weight driving me back.


    I felt the edge of the cliff beneath my heels, the abyss yawning behind me. The roar of the waterfall filled my ears, drowning out all other sounds. I glanced back, the sheer drop dizzying. There was no escape.


    Zhang Wei advanced, his eyes cold and triumphant. "Goodbye, Huo Lian."


    With a final, desperate effort, I lunged at him. But he sidestepped easily, his hand lashing out to shove me backward. My balance teetered, arms flailing as I fought to stay upright. For a heartbeat, I hung suspended on the brink, then gravity...

 Chapter 17 Unsettled Hearts

    Chapter 17 Unsettled Hearts


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    Today was quite strange; I had an odd feeling that lingered within me. With no patients to attend to, I decided to close the clinic early and take a walk to ease my unsettled nerves. Yet, despite my efforts, nothing seemed to alleviate my unease. I found myself wondering to my parents'' grave, seeking solace in prayer, before making my way to the merchant''s shop. There, I ended up purchasing candy for both the merchant''s boy and myself, hoping to distract myself from my lingering discomfort. However, as I strolled through the village once more, I inevitably returned to my farmhouse.


    My thoughts drifted to the gang members who had pledged to protect the village from hostile forces in exchange for my mercy. The day following my encounter with General Zhang, I discovered their lifeless bodies on the outskirts of the village. In gratitude for their service, I ensured each of the ten men received a proper burial, offering prayers at their graves. Yet, despite these gestures, my uneasiness persisted, refusing to be quelled.


    Resigned to my restless state, I rose from the farmhouse porch and wandered a few feet, reflecting on my skirmish with General Zheng. It had been an exhilarating battle, though my recollection of the events was somewhat hazy. Nonetheless, I could vividly recall the movements of my own body as I wielded my sword, Grandpa. With a swift sway and a powerful swing, I unleashed a slash upward.


    A brilliant white light erupted from the blade, tracing an arc through the air with a deafening SHHHHHH, illuminating the verdant surroundings with its ethereal white glow.


    I observed a thick, white light following the trajectory of my slash, illuminating the air with its brilliance before fading into nothingness a few feet away. "Wow, that''s the first time that''s happened," I murmured to myself, my senses heightened by the unusual occurrence.


    The scent in the air seemed more potent than usual, wrapping around me like a cloak. My strange feeling lingered, refusing to dissipate, but at least now I had something to distract myself. With each upward swing of my sword, I aimed at the empty air, careful not to let the white light connect with anything accidentally.


    After a dozen repetitions, I found myself gasping for breath, the exertion of my full-strength swings far more draining than I had anticipated. "Hmm, would the white slash occur if I swung normally?" I wondered aloud, pondering the intricacies of my newfound ability.


    I tested my theory, swinging my sword with a more restrained motion. The familiar aroma filled the air, a testament to the hours I had spent honing my skills. However, this time, no white slash accompanied my swing. "Interesting," I muttered, filing away the observation for future experimentation.


    Feeling a surge of excitement, I made my way back to the forest between my clinic and the waterfall, eager to put my newfound power to the test. "These trees are strong," I thought to myself, eyeing the towering sentinels that surrounded me. "Let''s see how the white light fares against them."Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    With a determined hush, I swung my sword downward with all my strength. A thick white light erupted from the edge of my sword, slicing through the air in a straight line, before coming to an abrupt halt at the sixth tree, five feet away.


    As the light dissipated, leaving only a faint shimmer in its wake, I found myself feeling strangely drained and disappointed. "Ha ha ha, I feel so exhausted, and it did nothing?" I chuckled wryly, swallowing hard as I struggled to catch my breath. "HAAA, Hoooo."


    Disheartened, I approached the first tree and reached out to touch it. To my astonishment, the moment my fingers made contact, the tree split in half with a resounding crack, revealing the layers of its inner structure in stark relief.


    Before I could fully process the sight, the momentum carried one half of the tree into the next, setting off a chain reaction that echoed through the forest like a thunderous symphony.


    As the sixth tree finally succumbed to gravity, another loud crack reverberated through the air, followed by the unmistakable sound of splashing.


    "Huh, maybe one of the trees hit a rock and landed in the water?" I mused, my mind racing with the possibilities of what I had just witnessed.


    [Huo Lian]


    To die¡ªit feels even odder to think about, but that was my thought while falling. The cold wind whipped around me as I plunged from the cliff, the deafening roar of the waterfall enveloping me. I could see those evil bastards'' faces stretching into grotesque masks, laughing like hyenas as I fell. Their eyes, dark and mocking, glinted with malevolent glee.


    The waterfall was immense, a cascading torrent of white foam that started at the peak of the tallest mountain in the kingdom and plummeted to the base far below. There was no point in looking down; the chasm beneath me seemed endless. Not even a nascent soul could survive such a fall, much less me.


    As I descended, I reminisced about the life I had lived. Though I was only eighteen years old, I felt as if I had lived a long life, filled with struggles and fleeting triumphs. I had been ignored and disrespected by everyone around me, which drove me to seek power¡ªpower to free myself, to make others acknowledge me, to create fear in those who belittled me, and, most importantly, power to be respected.


    I achieved it. Through blood and sweat, I climbed the ranks, my body bearing the scars of countless battles. My hands, once soft, had become calloused and strong. My eyes, once bright with hope, had hardened with determination and sorrow.


    But then I learned that my plight, my tragedy, was only the tip of the iceberg. Others had it much worse than me, living lives of unimaginable suffering with no hope of ever being free. I swore I would be their liberator; I would seek vengeance for them. For the brief month that I commanded my army and estate, I rooted out all the evil beneath me and executed every last villain. I made those living under oppression free.


    For a single month.


    That was my life''s work¡ªworth just one month of liberation. The evils brought my life to an end.


    "AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!" I screamed, the sound lost in the roaring waterfall.


    I felt unsatisfied; it was not enough. My goal had not been reached, my destiny unfulfilled. As I fell, the realization that my efforts amounted to so little tore at me. I felt belittled, disrespected, and powerless once more.


    "AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!" I roared, my voice raw with anguish.


    The spray from the waterfall enveloped me, a chilling reminder of my impending fate. The world blurred around me, the verdant green of the mountainside merging with the azure sky, the sun casting a golden hue on the cascading water. The last thing I saw was the base of the waterfall, a violent maelstrom of churning water and jagged rocks. And then, darkness.

 Chapter 18 Rekindled

    Chapter 18 Rekindled


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I heard a loud crack, following the resounding boom of the tree crashing to the ground. The forest around me seemed to tremble in response, the birds scattering from their perches in a flurry of feathers and alarmed chirps.


    My thoughts immediately turned to the village. If the fallen tree ended up creating a dam and blocked the stream, it would cause a severe water shortage for the villagers. I couldn''t allow those people to suffer because of me. I had to act quickly.


    As I neared the waterfall, my eyes widened in shock. There, beneath the tumbling cascade of water, was a person floating lifelessly. From the silhouette and long floating brown hair it looked to be a female. The water around her was tinged with crimson, the unmistakable hue of blood swirling in the clear stream.


    "Oh no," I muttered, panic rising in my chest. "I hope she is okay."


    I sprinted towards the water, my feet moved fast from rock to rock as I struggled to reach her. The roar of the waterfall was deafening, drowning out the sound of my own labored breathing. When I finally got to her, I lifted her out of the water. She was much lighter than I had expected, her body limp and lifeless in my arms. Her clothes were tattered rags, clinging to her frail form.


    I quickly took off my robe and wrapped it around her, trying to shield her from the cold. The fabric absorbed some of the water, but it did little to warm her chilled skin. "I need to take her to the clinic," I thought urgently.


    With the woman cradled in my arms, I rushed back to the clinic.My heart pounded with each step, the weight of responsibility pressing heavily on my shoulders. Once inside, I laid her gently on a cot and grabbed all the towels I could find. I stoked the fire, placing multiple wooden stakes into the flames to ensure it burned hot and bright.


    Carefully, I dried her off, the towels quickly soaking up the cold water. I brought her closer to the fire, hoping the warmth would revive her. Her skin was pale, but her temperature seemed normal¡ªa small relief. The real concern was her shallow breathing and weak heartbeat.


    While drying her and changing her into clean clothes, I examined her closely. There were no visible wounds, no cuts or gashes that explained the copious amount of blood in the water. The sheer volume of blood had been enough to fill a wooden tub. "Where did all this blood come from?" I wondered, baffled but relieved that it wasn''t hers.The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    I took a deep breath, feeling a bit more at ease. She seemed somewhat stable for now. "I will care for her until she wakes up," I resolved, my gaze lingering on her peaceful, albeit fragile, face. Questions swirled in my mind¡ªquestions about the blood, her presence in the water, and the circumstances that had led to her current state. But those could wait until she regained consciousness.


    For now, I would watch over her, ensuring she remained safe and warm. The mystery of her plight would unravel in time, and until then, I would be her physician.


    [Huo Lian]


    I was surrounded in darkness, darker than any night. I felt blazing anger, then an inferno erupted in front of me. My vision blurred, and through the haze, I saw an image of a beautiful and majestic bird with enormous flame-like wings. Its feathers were a brilliant red from head to toe, and its entire being demanded respect. The bird¡¯s eyes, fierce and intelligent, seemed to pierce through my very soul.


    Strangely, I felt an intimate connection with this creature, as if it were a long-lost family member. In my life, I had never known familial love, but if I did, it would feel like this. I reached out, my hand trembling, desperate to touch it, to feel the warmth of its fiery wings. I longed to be held by it, to be wrapped within its comforting embrace. I wanted to tell it all my grievances, to cry in its embrace, and feel a moment of solace.


    As my fingers brushed against its blazing wing, a blinding light flashed.


    Suddenly, I was aware of being carried. I could feel everything, but couldn''t move. My perception, however, was still intact, allowing me to sense within a foot around me. I could feel a man holding me, his movements hurried and anxious.


    I tried to make out his face with my senses. I could hear his heavy breathing and the pounding of his heart. He seemed very anxious. Is he worried about me perhaps? Did I know him? Was he one of my subordinates? Why was he so worried?


    He kicked open a door and gently placed me on something soft, a mattress maybe. I could smell medical herbs all around me. Am I at a clinic?. Moments later, he returned and began gently patting me with a towel. The fabric was warm and soft against my skin. He dried my whole body and dressed me in a thick robe before placing me near a fire.


    His touch was gentle and respectful, using the towel as a barrier. Yet, the anger and embarrassment of having a man see me like this flared up within me. Even if I considered myself a warrior and not just a woman, it was too much for him to do all that. My anger had no outlet; I was at his mercy. For the first time in my life, I felt helpless. Is this how Li Na felt?  The anger continued to rise within me, burning hotter than before.


    Then I felt him touching my wrist. "Pulse and respiration are weak, but I found no injuries. Why then?" His voice was young, almost boyish, but his speech and touch were precise.  Ahh, I see he must be a doctor.


    I remembered the calluses on his hands when he lifted me and checked my pulse. They were rougher than my own. What kind of doctor had hands like a farmer?


    I heard him speak again, "There was so much blood. Well, it doesn''t matter. She''s not injured. I will care for her until she wakes up. I can ask her about the blood and why she was in the water later."


    He will care for me until I wake up. My anger began to dissipate. This is a good doctor. I owe him this life. I will pay him back.


    Exhaustion overwhelmed me. My eyelids grew heavy, and my thoughts became sluggish. I think I am tired now. I will sleep.

 Chapter 19 New Day

    Chapter 19 New Day


    [Patient Huo Lian]


    Huo Lian woke to the sound of soft mutterings. The room around her was dimly lit by the morning sun filtering through a small, high window. The scent of herbs and fresh wood filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of a burning fire. She felt the gentle but firm pressure of calloused fingers on her wrist, assessing her pulse with careful attention.


    She tried to blinked, her eyes unable to open, but her mind sharp, taking in everything within a foot around her. The ceiling above was made of wooden beams, slightly warped with age, and the walls were lined with shelves filled with jars of various herbs and medicines. The room felt warm and secure, a stark contrast to the harsh, cold memory of the waterfall.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± The sound was followed by a light cough, a raspy clearing of the throat. Huo Lian turned her attention to the figure beside her bed.


    Her doctor, Zhen Jian, was young, perhaps in his early twenties. He had a slender build, his clothes simple and slightly oversized, indicating his youthful frame. His hair was tied back in a loose ponytail, and his face bore the seriousness of someone far beyond his years. Yet his eyes, sharp and clear, revealed a depth of experience unusual for someone so young. His hands, despite their roughness, moved with precision and care.


    ¡°Is my doctor sick?¡± she wondered silently.


    ¡°I do not know if you can hear this, but your pulse has been consistent over the past twenty minutes, so if there is any fluctuation, I will think you can hear me,¡± he said, his voice gentle but firm. He had been holding her wrist for twenty minutes? Was he just a pervert after all?


    Her heart beat quicker, anger rising within her. But then he laughed, a light, childish sound that dispelled her fears. ¡°HAHAHA, it worked!¡± His laugh was innocent, untainted by malice.


    Her anger instantly vanished. ¡°My doctor is a child,¡± she thought, somewhat relieved. If he was just a boy, there was no need to worry about him being a pervert. But a new problem emerged: could a child really take care of her?


    Oblivious to her internal debate, Zhen Jian continued, his voice calm and measured. ¡°Hello, Mrs. Patient. I am Doctor Zhen Jian. I have been looking after you since yesterday when I found you at the base of the waterfall. I do not know why you were there unconscious and surrounded by blood. But let me assure you, I will care for you until you are fully functional again.¡±Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    He paused, giving her time to process his words. Huo Lian thought back. She remembered falling off the waterfall. Being at the base of it made sense. The blood must have come from the fall. Her body should have shattered upon impact. Why was she even alive?


    ¡°From your consistent heartbeat, it means you probably know your situation better than I thought. That''s good; maybe you will wake up earlier than expected.¡± His optimism was reassuring, but she was not so sure.


    ¡°I should be dead,¡± she thought. ¡°My bones shouldn¡¯t even be intact after falling from such a height, yet here I am.¡± She sighed inwardly, deciding to take it as a blessing from the gods.


    ¡°Well, it has been a full night, but I am worried about you being too cold. So I will not give you a shower, but we must practice hygiene; otherwise, it could affect your health and inevitably affect the time it takes you to wake up.¡±


    Wait, what did he just say? Hygiene? Her heart rate spiked again. He still hadn''t let go of her wrist, so he could feel it. Damn it, let go already, she thought.


    He spoke again, his tone soothing as if addressing a spoiled child. ¡°Ahh, your heart rate is raised. You must be a very clean person; your skin reflects that. You must want to shower immediately. Sorry, Mrs. Patient, we have to worry about your body becoming too cold. I cannot give you a shower until at least tomorrow. Ahh, after that, I will help you perform some simple exercises to prevent your body from stiffening up, and then I will feed you. Please try to understand.¡±


    Her anger flared again. ¡°You idiot, I don¡¯t want to be bathed or showered by you. What the hell, do you not understand the difference between genders?¡± she mentally cursed at him, feeling her heart rate rise.


    ¡°Ahh, sorry, Mrs. Patient. Tomorrow, I promise,¡± he said, completely unaware of her internal turmoil.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I had just communicated with my first vegetative patient. The excitement of making contact with her was exhilarating. I wished my master were here to witness this moment; we could learn so much about this condition from her. Despite my eagerness to learn more, my priority was ensuring she woke up as soon as possible.


    The clinic room, bathed in the soft morning light, felt serene and warm. The scent of medicinal herbs mingled with the fresh smell of wood and the faint aroma of a nearby fire. I looked around, taking in the rustic charm of the space, with shelves lined with jars and bundles of dried herbs hanging from the beams above.


    I noticed her heart rate jumped when I mentioned she couldn''t take a shower. She must be very hygienic. As her physician, I appreciated her willingness to cleanse herself, but I couldn''t risk exposing her to below-normal temperatures. I didn''t know how long she had been in the water. Her small, thin body could lose heat quickly. Sighing, I silently apologized to her.


    I finished giving her the most thorough bed bath I could manage, my hands moving gently yet efficiently across her skin. Her heart rate remained high, a clear sign of her discomfort. "Sorry again, dear patient," I whispered softly, feeling a pang of guilt.


    [Huo Lian]


    "You motherfucker, wait for me to wake up! I will kill you, I will kill you, I will kill you..." My thoughts seethed with rage. I felt the humiliation of being bathed by him, powerless to resist.

 Chapter 20 God-Tier Applesauce

    Chapter 20 God-Tier Applesauce


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I began moving her joints through various ranges of motion, starting with her neck, then her back, arms, and legs. Each finger and toe received careful attention to prevent stiffness. The room was filled with the faint creaking of her joints and the soft rustle of my movements.


    After washing my hands, it was time for breakfast. I grabbed a few apples, oranges, and bananas, crushing them separately in small bowls. The sweet scent of the fruits filled the air, a pleasant contrast to the usual medicinal aromas.


    "Hello, Mrs. Patient, this is your doctor Zhen Jian," I said gently, leaning close to her ear. "I am back with breakfast. I do not know what type of fruits you like, so I will check your heart rate. If you don''t like one, your heart rate will go up because the body reacts more aggressively to something we don''t like."


    I placed my fingers on her wrist, feeling the slow, steady pulse. Her breathing was also slow. "Hmm, is she asleep?" I wondered aloud, whispering, "Mrs. Patient?"


    I listed the fruits. "Well, I guess she doesn''t like bananas, oranges, or apples." When I mentioned apples, her breathing quickened slightly, and her pulse increased for a second.


    "Okay, that''s good that you like apples. I personally like the red ones from my farm the best. Haha," I chuckled softly. "Do you not like red apples and prefer green ones?" Her pulse quickened again, and I laughed. "Haha, we are the same then."


    I brought the crushed red apples, now a smooth applesauce, to her lips. The sweet, tart scent filled the air as I prepared to feed her. "Here we go, Mrs. Patient," I said softly, carefully spooning the applesauce into her mouth.


    [Huo Lian]


    Haaa, I was so tired from cursing at him. The frustration left me drained, but it seemed futile. Perhaps ignoring him would be a better strategy, yet hunger gnawed at my resolve. Just as my stomach began to protest, the scent of fresh apples wafted through the air, teasing my senses.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Damn, he had to bring breakfast the moment I felt hungry. Despite my anger, the need for food was undeniable. I tried to resist, thinking I could endure a day without eating, but the aroma was irresistible. And then, he brought red apples.


    WHAT THE FUCK can he actually read minds? If he can, why can¡¯t he understand that him cleaning me is uncomfortable? Shit, my body reacted to him trying to put away the food. Now he¡¯s going to feed me. No, I feel like dying.


    As he spooned the applesauce into my mouth, the rich, sweet flavor overwhelmed me. GOD DAMMIT, WHY IS it so good???


    ¡°Oh, sorry Mrs. Patient. I¡¯m not used to feeding people. You have some on your lip. Let me clean it for you.¡±


    He brought a soft hand towel and gently wiped off the leftover apple sauce from my lips. The gesture was so tender it made my cheeks burn with embarrassment. I wanted to disappear. I can¡¯t even look at him in the eye anymore. My pride was shattered in front of this child.


    I cried without tears, my heart hatefully resentful. Ultimately, I realized it was my fault . He was doing all this to care for me, but it was simply too embarrassing. I had no memory of ever being cared for like this. My father hated me, and the palace staff were indifferent. He was the first person to ever perform such acts of kindness. I couldn¡¯t get used to it.


    ¡°Okay, Mrs. Patient, I have to open up the clinic now, but I can¡¯t leave you alone here, nor is it good for you to remain in bed for too long. There¡¯s a recliner overlooking the outside with lots of sunlight that should be good for you.¡±


    Hmm, yes, sitting up is a good idea. I might even learn to adjust to my situation better. He picked me up with his calloused hands and gently placed me in the recliner.


    My perception was still small; I could feel the counter where he was standing behind. He stayed within arm¡¯s reach of me. Sigh, he is too attractive. He is indeed a good doctor.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I placed the recliner to catch the gentle morning sunshine. It was crucial to keep her within arm¡¯s reach in case she began to lean over or something, so I moved the chair near the counter. The clinic door creaked open, letting in a breeze that carried the scent of blooming flowers and fresh earth.


    Ahh, ready for the new day. I felt the sunshine and felt refreshed as well. The odd feeling I was experiencing yesterday was gone, and now I was back to my old self. I couldn¡¯t recall why I felt so strange all day, but what really mattered was that I felt fine today.


    I had someone I needed to care for day and night. Getting her back on her feet was my priority. I glanced at my patient, laying in the recliner, absorbing the morning sun. Her delicate features were illuminated by the light, making her look almost ethereal.


    "You will be back to normal before you know it," I whispered, reaffirming my promise to care for her.

 Chapter 21 Eventful Morning

    Chapter 21 Eventful Morning


    [Huo Lian]


    Yesterday was a traumatic day, to say the least, but at least it''s over. As I finally drifted to sleep, a strange pungent smell jolted me awake. Realizing it originated from me, I panicked. "No, no, no, please. Gods, take my soul, please." This feeling was much worse than the threat of death from the waterfall. I lay helpless, my attentive doctor nowhere in sight.


    Then, I sensed something stirring close to the bed on the floor. With my perception ability, I detected someone nearby. Slowly, a figure got up. Ah, it was my doctor. Had he slept on the floor since he brought me here? Rubbing his eyes, he spoke the words I dreaded yet needed to hear.


    "Congratulations, Mrs. Patient, you had your first bowel movement. I thought it would happen tomorrow, but just in case, I wrapped extra towels around you really well done."


    This fucking guy. Who tells a lady good job on taking a shit? When I was with my subordinates, I thought I lacked common sense. But spending time with this idiot, I think my social sense is perfectly fine.


    What followed was a perfect, albeit aggravatingly thorough, shower. This time, I couldn¡¯t complain too much; he had really rescued me. I didn¡¯t like bathing as Li Na made me, but being in that situation was horrifying. I was glad he was there for me. The fact that he had no sense made it easier to accept the crazy things he did.


    ¡°All done. Good job today, Mrs. Patient. It''s still early morning, so let''s sleep.¡±


    I sighed. It sounded from his words like we were sleeping together, but he just meant we should sleep. I think I am becoming strange living with this odd guy.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    My patient finally had a bowel movement. I was very worried that her body was still not digesting food, but my worries were unwarranted. I gave her a proper bath, changed her clothes, and covered her back in the quilt. Feeling wide awake after moving so much, I decided sword practice would help me get sleepy again.


    I had placed Gramp leaning up against the wall. I picked up Grandpa and started swinging, hoping to relax and wear myself out. After a few hours, I felt sleepy enough. Haaa, I felt satisfied but now covered in sweat.


    I went out to bring water and then took a bath in the wooden tub. I hadn¡¯t taken a full bath in a few days, only dumping water over myself because I didn''t want to be bathing when my patient needed me. But the tub was next to her, and right now, she was asleep. Maybe I should make it a habit of bathing near her.


    Aww, all nice and clean. I rubbed myself dry and emptied the tub, ready for my patient to use. Now I would sleep for a few hours before breakfast.


    [Huo Lian]


    This shameless asshole took a bath right in front of me. Does he know no decency? Even if he thinks I am asleep, why would he do it so close? Ahh, recalling the events from yesterday, he wants to be nearby in case of emergencies. But dammit.


    And I always thought he was just a tall young boy. He ended up being a large man. What the hell? I mean, he has seen my body so many times that I have grown used to it. He can¡¯t be mad if I see him, right?


    Has my thought process become weird? No, I just wanted to know if there was anything wrong with my doctor¡¯s body. This is why I used my perception ability on him. Yes, that is definitely the case.


    And from my many years of martial arts I can with certainty there is nothing wrong with his body. He also didn''t have any fat in his body. He was surprisingly muscular despite his thin looking frame.


    Dammit he has made me weird.


    -


    [Patient Huo Lian]


    The past few days came and went, but sleep eluded me. Every time I was about to fall asleep, my good doctor would move, and I''d recall every line of his body that I sensed. This idiot, how can he sleep so comfortably when he sees me all day? Even now, as he bathes me, he has a slight frown while using a small towel to apply the soap. He never touches my skin directly. I now realize he only allows his skin to touch mine when he''s lifting me. Damn this idiot.


    Dammit he has made me weird.

 Chapter 22 Angry Doctor

    Chapter 22 Angry Doctor


    "Okay, Mrs. Patient, all clean now. Let''s have some breakfast," he said after drying my body. He began to feed me. I don''t like that he makes me eat other foods besides apples, but I know it''s good for me.


    "I am sorry, Mrs. Patient. I know you like only meat and apples, but you need to have bread and vegetables too," he says, coaxing me like a child. I do feel that these days I have gotten used to his care, but my anger has shifted. Now, whenever he uses the towel as a barrier, it upsets me, and I really don''t know why. I also don''t like him being far away. My perception ability has steadily become stronger. During my peak, I could feel anything within 20 feet; now, it''s about 2 feet. But I don''t feel comfortable unless he is less than a foot away. I am not sure if it''s a side effect of relying on him for 15 days, but I can''t seem to get enough of his presence.


    "Okay, Mrs. Patient, let me wipe your face." He uses the towel to wipe my face.


    Damn it, can''t you use your hand? Am I that dirty to you? For heaven''s sake, you''re the one who bathes me. Haa, so annoying. I often find myself getting upset when he is near me. I think I am tired of being in a coma; it has messed with my emotions way too much.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    "There, all clean. Good job at eating your bread and veggies, Mrs. Patient," I say while holding her wrist. It has become normal for me to check her pulse while speaking through these 15 days. Our routine is a bit mundane and ritualistic, but that is how I like to do things. I hope that giving her a routine to fall back on will allow her to wake up faster.


    I do feel strange, though. I started to take baths daily to ensure I stay healthy; otherwise, no one would be able to take care of her. Sometimes I feel like somebody''s watching me while I bathe, but when I begin to look around, the sensation is gone. I look at the still unmoving patient of mine and always laugh, thinking I''m just imagining things. I still keep the tub in the same spot¡ªnever know when she will have an emergency or when she will need to use it.


    I place her on the recliner as normal, allowing her to catch some sunlight. She remains within arm''s reach in case she falls over or anything emergency-related happens. I see a rich man walk into the clinic with his guards. That''s odd, I think, but welcome him anyway.


    "Hello, sir. Welcome. I am Doctor Zhen Jian, and this is my clinic. Is there anything I can help you with today?"


    The two guards stand behind him. The man looks overweight, with a large protruding stomach and many golden necklaces around his neck. He doesn¡¯t looks at me like looking at me would dirty his eyes. He is filled of disdain, but I don''t care. My job is to heal anyone who walks through that door. As long as he doesn''t harm another, I will do my best to aid.


    The man says, "I need something to reduce my nausea while traveling," while looking around.


    I nod. Someone of his size must have problems with digestion, so on an unstable road, he must have many issues. I hand him a packet full of pills and say, "Take these once before beginning your voyage and then again after every 4-6 hours, depending on whether you will be on the road 30 minutes after taking it."


    "Did that make sense?"


    "Huh, of course. Do you think I am a moron?" he says, still not looking at me. Just as he turns around, he looks at Mrs. Patient.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    "You, sell her to me as well. Round the price up for both the packet and her."


    ---


    [Patient Huo Lian]


    Huh? Both my doctor and I said in unison, though no one heard me. What did this lardass say?


    "Excuse me, sir. I do not understand what exactly you are saying," my doctor says. He probably has never even heard of slavery before.


    The fatass finally locks eyes with my doctor and says, "I want to buy her from you. How much is she?" He speaks as if I were a commodity.


    Haa, haaa. My anger rises. He thinks of me as a thing he can possess. He thinks I am beneath him. He is disrespecting me to my face?!!!


    ---


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    "I want to buy her from you. How much is she?" the pig-like man asked. Can people even buy others? What type of concept is this? It makes me sick; it makes me so upset. I glance at Mrs. Patient. I don''t know how, but I can feel her anger. It mirrors mine.


    I grabbed Grampa and, without removing the sheath, I smacked the epitome of nausea himself in the stomach, sending him flying, followed by his two guards. They looked strong, so I hit them harder under their chins. I was afraid of killing the fat man if I hit him anywhere else. With all that cushion, hitting him in the stomach should be fine, right? Anyway, I don''t care what or who they are¡ªthey shouldn''t disrespect Mrs. Patient like that. Who would even consider buying another? That''s impossible.


    I emptied the packet''s contents back into the jar under the counter and brought the stool closer to Mrs. Patient. I grabbed her wrist and apologized.


    "I am sorry, Mrs. Patient. I made that man speak that sentence twice." When I grabbed her wrist, her pulse was fast. She might have heard the bang and become scared. "Don''t worry. The bang earlier was...uhh...uhh...they dropped something before leaving. Yeah, I''ll clean it later."


    ---


    [Patient Huo Lian]


    Really, though, who is he trying to fool? Even a child wouldn''t believe that¡ªa loud sound, then three out of the five people are gone. Hahaha, my doctor is too funny. He usually practices sword swings, and his body looks¡­ strong, but I didn''t think he was a martial artist. I have never tried to perceive his strength. Maybe I will try to look a bit closer...damn it, I keep getting distracted. I will do it later. Ahem.


    Hmm, he is sitting pretty close, almost to the point our shoulders are touching. Just a bit, I just need to move a bit, a tiny bit...uhhh, come on, move, damn it. Damn it, move!


    ---


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I was staring with a frown at the three laying unconscious at the front of the clinic. Hopefully, people don''t get scared. Haaa, I don''t usually get angry. I wonder why I felt so upset. Maybe I really felt my patient''s anger and acted on it. Well, empathy would help me in my profession, but anger should be controlled.


    Hmm. I felt something soft and warm on my shoulder. Looking to my right, I see that Mrs. Patient and my shoulders were touching. Did I bump into her by accident, or did she fall onto my shoulder? I''ll check how she is doing.


    "Mrs. Patient, are you feeling well?" Her heart rate seems stable. "Mrs. Patient, do you want to stay...?" Her heart rate is the same. "Or do you want to go back to bed?" Her heart rate rises like crazy. Hahaha, okay, got you loud and clear. "But excuse me, I am going to hold you up. I think that man made you quite upset and made your body almost fall over." I slip my hands to her waist and make her lean into me.


    [Patient Huo Lian]


    Yes, hardwork always pays off. I even get a super bonus reward. But for some reason this is making me nervous.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    Okay, now she won''t fall. But I should still ask her permission. ¡°Mrs. Patient, is it okay to remain like this?" Hmm, her heartbeat is only slightly above normal. Let me ask the inverse to be sure.


    "Mrs. Patient, do you want me to give you some space?"


    [Angry Patient Huo Lian]


    Some space?!! Did he really just ask me that?  You motherfucker, after I spent an hour of all my effort to lean on you, you want to take my reward from me, including the super reward?!! Do you not think this chief will flay you alive? What the hell? Keep your ass there and sit quietly, or I will nail your...


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    Oh, her heart rate went up like never before. She must have been really scared after the fat pig came. I put more strength in the hand holding her waist to reassure her.


    "Mrs. Patient, while I am here, I will never let any harm come to you." I am staring into her closed eyelids right now, but her heart rate slows down with my words. With my other hand, I bring my stool even closer to the recliner to better have her lean on me.


    Sigh, I wish I had hit them harder.

 Chapter 23 A Good Day

    Chapter 23 A Good Day


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    It has been a few hours since the incidence


    I didn''t even notice when the trio in front of my clinic left, but I don''t care about them. The sun was setting, casting long shadows through the open window of the clinic. The room was filled with the warm, golden glow of the late afternoon light, and the scent of herbs and medicines mixed with the faint, sweet aroma of the fresh groceries that Qin Lee had just brought in.


    Qin Lee, a small boy with wide eyes and a perpetual look of curiosity, walked in carrying the groceries for the week. He had a slight frame, his black hair tousled, and his clothes a bit too big for him, giving him an endearing, almost comical appearance. Since Mrs. Patient has been staying with me, I had asked the Qin family to deliver my groceries. I offered to pay extra for the delivery, but they simply laughed and said Lee needed the exercise. Lee was more than happy to come, but I decided I would buy candy for him and myself every time he came. He had also seen Mrs. Patient but never asked any questions about it. I thought he was a very curious kid¡ªstrange.


    Lee came in happy, but froze when he saw me. I waved at him to come in, but he bowed and said, ¡°Doctor Zhen, I can come back?¡±


    ¡°Huh, I don''t understand. Why? You don''t have to come twice. Just bring the groceries and place them on the counter, please.¡±


    Lee looked at me and Mrs. Patient and asked, ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Huh, why do you keep asking that?¡±


    Lee looked like he wanted to say something but couldn''t.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    [Patient Huo Lian]


    Hahahaha! Oh my, this is the best! Now it''s for sure my doctor is too innocent. Hahahahaha! They think you are doing something inappropriate to your comatose patient. Hahahaha! Naughty Doctor Zhen! Hahaha! His face! I can''t get enough. He looks like he was told that 1 + 1 equals 0. Hahaha! I can''t even...


    [Naughty Doctor Zhen Jian]


    Lee placed the bags on the counter and ran away.


    ¡°Hey, what about the candies?¡± I yelled out to him.


    I looked at Mrs. Patient, who was still leaning on me, and asked, ¡°I don''t know why he is acting like that. I am sorry about that. He is usually a well-behaved kid.¡±


    [Patient Huo Lian]


    He is like that because of you, doofus. Hahaha!


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    ¡°Strange day, today. Anyway, would you like some candy, Mrs. Patient?¡± I asked while checking her pulse. It remained the same. She likes sweets, and today has been a hectic day. Maybe some candy would soothe her mind.


    I grabbed one and removed the wrapping on it. It was on a stick, so I wasn''t worried about it choking her. I nudged her chin down with my thumb and placed the candy between the slit of her separated lips. I took another and placed it in my mouth too and laughed while saying, ¡°Hahaha, I have a sweet tooth. I love candies.¡±


    I heard a loud swallow. I followed the sound and saw the entirety of the Qin family hiding at the doorway. Mr. Qin, a tall man with broad shoulders, and Mrs. Qin, a petite woman with kind eyes, along with little Lee, were all peeking in.


    ¡°Come on in, everyone. The candies are great today too, Mr. Qin.¡±


    The moment I acknowledged their existence, they ran away like I caught them robbing me.


    ¡°Huh.¡±


    [Happy Patient Huo Lian]


    I don''t know exactly why, but I feel like this is the best day ever. Ahh, such a beautiful day to be alive. What an amazing candy. I wish I could eat this every day.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I didn''t need to check her pulse to tell she was happy right now. She looked like she was glowing, her usually pale skin reflecting the soft golden light of the setting sun. Her long, dark hair framed her delicate face, and a faint smile played on her lips.It was nice to see her happy like this. I can''t tell why, but it feels nostalgic¡­

 Chapter 24 Long Night

    Chapter 24 Long Night


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    Today may have been quite strange, but at least the night seems to have calmed. I place Mrs. Patient gently on her bed, her serene face framed by the soft glow of the lantern light. The clinic is quiet, the flickering shadows on the bamboo walls creating a peaceful, almost hypnotic atmosphere. I finish my sword practice, the rhythmic swishing of the blade, a calming ritual, and my bath, the warm water washing away the remnants of the day''s tension.


    It''s time for bed. I stretch a little, feeling the satisfying pull of my muscles, before laying down on my makeshift bed. The floor is lined with several blankets on the bamboo floor, enough to create a snug, comfortable nest. I enjoy being sandwiched between blankets, the weight and warmth a comforting embrace.


    I place Grandpa, my trusted sword, next to my bed and turn to face Mrs. Patient. Her breathing is steady, her chest rising and falling in a gentle rhythm. The room is cool, the air fragrant with the faint scent of herbs and the lingering aroma of the evening meal.


    [Huo Lian]


    He is finally resting. Today was a great day, and despite my reluctance to sleep, it would be selfish to stay awake after all the effort he put into getting me ready for bed. His presence is near, a reassuring beacon that I can sense completely. His proximity calms me, and I allow myself to drift towards sleep.


    Hmmm, I guess I will sleep now. Huh? I felt movement behind him. Who¡­ what!!!!


    I feel movement, a disturbance in the air, and my heart races. The room, our sanctuary, now feels like a trap. The air is thick with tension, every second dragging painfully. I sense the presence of another, their hostile intent. I sense him raising the blade up.


    NO


    NO


    NOOOOO


    Breathing becomes a struggle, fear clutching at my chest like a vice. Never in battle have I felt this way. Even at the moment of my death, facing the five bastards who killed me, fear was absent. I resented them, hated their arrogance and the way they disrespected me. But now, I feel true fear.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Horrifying fear.


    Mindnumbing fear.


    Why?


    Anxiety gnaws at me ¨C what if he doesn''t wake up? What if...


    In this moment of fear, a startling clarity washes over me. It isn''t just my life at stake ¨C it''s his. I fear loss. I have something to lose. My Doctor, I don''t want to lose him.


    The thought of him falling, of him being hurt, is unbearable. My heart aches with a fierce, protective instinct. I would rather face death a thousand times than see him harmed.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I feel someone''s step behind me and grab Grandpa instinctively. Much like when I fought General Zheng, time seems to slow down. I can see the super slow swipe of the sword, every detail crystal clear.


    I walk up to the man who is still swinging his sword at the spot where I was sleeping. His eyes widen in shock, his muscles tensed in a futile effort to retract his attack. But he¡¯s too slow for me. I glance at Mrs. Patient, sleeping soundly, and a surge of anger wells up within me. This time, it is my own anger, not borrowed from her.


    The man¡¯s attack might have harmed her. I cannot forgive that. I do not want him to ever place her in danger again. He is still trying to recall his sword. I look at his neck; I could end his life quickly by removing his head. But I don¡¯t want the room where she sleeps to be stained with his blood.


    I slowly walk behind the man. Bringing Grandpa up, I strike the back of his neck where the head meets the spine. Master called it the bone that carries the world. The moment my blow connects, time resumes its normal pace, and he falls like a sack of potatoes.


    I walk over to Mrs. Patient. Her breathing is fast, her heart rate even faster. She might have heard the man falling.


    ¡°Sorry to wake you, Mrs. Patient. We just had a really big bug. I was worried it may bite you so I squashed it. I¡¯m going to throw it outside.¡±


    Sighing, I pick up the lifeless body and take a few pieces of wood, placing them on top of him before setting him on fire. The flames flicker and dance, the scent of burning flesh a sharp contrast to the tranquility of the night.


    After washing my hands, I check on Mrs. Patient again. Thinking back, this is the first time I have been further than a foot from her. Even though I could see her the whole time, she might feel scared if she couldn¡¯t hear me.


    I sit at her bedside and place my hand on her wrist as usual. Her heart rate is just as high as it was. I sigh and hold her hand with both of mine, speaking slowly.


    ¡°Sorry, Mrs. Patient. I promise I will always stay right next to you. Now, please sleep well.¡±


    [Huo Lian]


    When he promised me, my anxiety finally began to calm down. He promised me, just like the boy promised meet. My heart, which had been in my throat, finally returned to where it belonged. He held my hand with both of his, his hands cool to the touch, so refreshing. I was always warm, hot even when I was angry. So, to me, his slightly cool hands felt like a breeze during the summer.


    I couldn¡¯t help but fall asleep. Today indeed was a good day.

 Chapter 25 Mrs. Qin鈥檚 Favorite Story

    Chapter 25 Mrs. Qin¡¯s Favorite Story


    [Huo Lian]


    It has been 15 days since the night I realized I cared about his life more than my own. As I lay in my comatose state, my mind reflects back on my life and all I have done. I spent my whole life for myself, striving to be noticed, respected. I became strong to escape the shadows of insignificance. When I saw the world suffering, I vowed to create a realm free of pain, though my motives were selfish. Living in such a world would make me more comfortable.


    But that night, the night of the attack, I lived not for myself but for him. I realize now that if I could choose who that sword would cleave, I would replace his head with mine every time without question or hesitation. Since then, everything about him feels special. Every action endears him to me more. It makes me immensely happy that he tires himself out caring for me, yet it pains me to see him so weary.


    I sit in the recliner, feeling a pang of sadness that he didn¡¯t let me lean on him. But he holds true to his word, staying less than a foot away from me.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    The night air is cool and crisp. The soft glow of lanterns casts a warm light in the small clinic, illuminating the wooden walls and simple furnishings. I see Mrs. Qin enter with this week''s bag of groceries.


    "Hello, Mrs. Qin. How are you?" I greet her cheerfully.


    "Doctor Zhen, nice to see you again. I have been well. How are you?" she replies, her voice carrying a friendly warmth.


    I am about to respond when a strange feeling makes me turn my head towards Mrs. Patient. Her serene face, framed by strands of soft black hair, remains peaceful. Yet, something feels off.


    "I am well, Mrs. Qin. Where is Lee? Why did he make you come all this way?" I ask, genuinely curious.


    Mrs. Qin laughs, her eyes crinkling with amusement. "I guess our favorite doctor doesn¡¯t want to see me, heehee."


    I sense something emitting from Mrs. Patient but can¡¯t quite place it. Am I sleepy?


    "No, of course not, Mrs. Qin. I was simply curious," I reply, mimicking her laugh.


    She laughs again and says, "Of course. Actually, I came because I wanted to ask you about your farm."


    "Oh, are you thinking of farming yourself?" I ask, surprised.


    Mrs. Qin shakes her head. "Nothing like that. I just wanted some of those apples."


    "Ah, yes. Among all the plants my father grew when he was alive, the apple trees are the most resilient. I hardly go there, yet they are ever blooming with fruit. Next time I go home, I will get some for you."


    Mrs. Qin nods, her smile bright. "Now, the second reason I came is to ask you about that girl you remember, the one you fell for after seeing her smile."Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    I laugh awkwardly, glancing at Mrs. Patient. Her expression remains unchanged, but I feel a subtle tension in the air.


    "Yes, even Mrs. Patient doesn¡¯t know that story," I admit.


    Mrs. Qin is intrigued. "Oh, does Mrs. Patient here respond to you?"


    I am happy to share my discovery. "Yes, she can respond by her breathing and heart rate. If she likes something, they will slow or remain the same. If she hates something, they will increase."


    Mrs. Qin nods, understanding. "Okay, please tell the story then. I loved that story as well."


    I chuckle, beginning the tale. "It was before I decided to become a doctor. My father and I went to the capital..."


    [Huo Lian]


    Why is this woman here today? Where is the child? Why is she so friendly with him? Damn harpy, keep talking, and I will use that tongue to¡­


    Did he detect my heart rate going up? Relax. Deep breaths. Slowly release.


    Damn it, it''s too hard. She is talking too much. Leave, damn hag. Wait... he loves someone?


    Oh, this pain. Why does it hurt worse than getting stabbed? It¡¯s too painful. Why? Why does it hurt? I feel like my soul is being ripped apart. Ughhh.


    But I have never seen him with anyone else. How could he love someone? Ah, he is a doctor. She must be at home. The girl he fell for after seeing her smile. She must be such a great and beautiful girl, not a battle-driven blood crazed bat like me.


    I should just stop living so he can go back to her. I don¡¯t want to hear the story. Please, it hurts too much, but a time before he became a doctor?


    Hahah, how wishy-washy of me. I want to learn more about him but not hear the story of him loving someone else.


    "My father and I were going to the capital," he laughingly said. "Father had an enormous body, so all the capital¡¯s people were too scared to buy from us, hahaha."


    Wait...


    "Father saw this girl. She was so pretty with her short brown hair. She was staring at these green apples we had. Father asked me to grab a bag and give it to her. After giving them, she had such a cute smile. I remember it so clearly, even with my horrible memory."


    No, please wait...


    "I promised her to come back with more apples because I wanted to make her have a bigger smile. But honestly, I fell for her small smile. Then Father got sick. But he knew I liked her, so he kept reminding me to get her apples. And the day of Father¡¯s burial, it was three months. I ran up to the capital after the burial and met up with her."


    I need time to process this.


    "But I told her I couldn''t come back because I was going to become a doctor. I really wanted to see her, even now I do. But she is probably married by now. She was way too pretty to not grow up beautifully."


    He said he likes red apples, he said he has a farm, and his name is Zhen Jian. I thought it was a coincidence. No, I didn¡¯t want to believe it. If it was him, I would die from happiness and break from sadness. I was too scared of being wrong. My heart wanted to believe, but I was to sacred and refused. But its true, that it was him from the beginning.


    But if it is him, and if he is the boy, then the one he loves...


    Ahh, heavens.


    [Zhen Jian]


    "Oh, Mrs. Patient, I didn¡¯t want to make you sad. Please, eat an apple. It will make you smile again."


    Oh no, another tear. "Sorry, Mrs. Qin, I need to take care of Mrs. Patient." I picked her up and took her to the bed. I then brought crushed apples and began feeding her, but the tears don¡¯t stop.


    "I am sorry, Mrs. Patient. I didn¡¯t think that story would affect you so badly. I promise it was one of the best memories I have. Every time I felt lonely or when my job became challenging, I thought about that memory, and it filled me with energy. So please don¡¯t cry for me."


    I tell her the truth, and it seems to work. She stops crying. Thank the Gods. Tears hold a lot of salt. I need to make sure she doesn¡¯t lose too much salt.


    I notice the plate is empty. Let me get some more apples. As I stand up, I feel Mrs. Patient holding my hand.


    No way!


    She did it! She moved!


    "Good job! Wooow, you did it!"


    [Huo Lian]


    You doofus, I moved before too. You just didn¡¯t notice. I was able to achieve everything I did because of you. And now, I will wake up to say how I feel about you. I, this Huo Lian, have never been unsuccessful in her life. I fought with tyrants and demons alike. What is a little morning wake-up?


    I will be up soon, so you wait for me, my Jian..

 Chapter 26 Youre not my doctor, but I am still your patient.

    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    Beneath the canopy of apple trees, their branches heavy with the crimson and gold of ripe fruit, I felt a rare tranquility. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting a dappled pattern on the ground. Each apple was a symbol of health and vitality, something that both Mrs. Patient and I cherished deeply.


    "This is the apple orchard where we get the apples we eat," I said cheerfully, breathing in the sweet scent of the fruit. "Both you and I love apples, so let''s come by the farm more often to pick them."


    It''s been about a month since Mrs. Patient first grabbed my hand. Though her physical recovery is slow, I can see subtle changes in her expressions. Her body is still in the healing process, and rushing it would be detrimental. However, I sense a growing restlessness in her, a desire to move and engage with the world around her.


    Today, we¡¯re at my family farm. I carry her on my back, securing her with soft sheets. Her delicate frame rests lightly against me, and I can feel the faintest of smiles on her lips.


    "After we finish collecting all the apples, would you like to see the house I grew up in?" I ask, my voice filled with nostalgia. The house stands at the edge of the orchard, a humble structure of weathered wood and fond memories. I don''t need to check her pulse to know her answer; I can clearly feel her interest.


    [Huo Lian]


    It has been both hell and heaven in the past month. Realizing my feelings for Jian has been overwhelming. I want to shout them to the world, but my body still betrays me, refusing to obey my commands. My cultivation is slowly recovering; in my dantian, I can feel two broken cores slowly rotating and mending themselves. But the progress is painfully slow. I do not know if it is related to my awakening, but I sure hope it is so.


    Despite this hellish slowness, moments with Jian are my heaven. He initiates more contact now, feeding me finger foods and transitioning me from crushed to soft foods. The intimacy of his touch, his gentle care, is the only medicine I need. He carries me on his broad back, and the spring breeze caresses my face as we walk through the orchard. Today, he brought me to his family home and farm, a place I¡¯ve longed to see, to understand more about him.


    I want to meet his parents at their gravesites, but I doubt he''ll take me to them yet. The last time he shared his story, I couldn''t stop crying, I was overwhelmed by a happiness I hadn''t expected. It wasn''t my fault. But once I can walk on my own, I will insist on meeting them. I want to make a good impression, to show them that I am worthy of their son.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    Pointing to a patch of land, I say, "That over there is where we grow pumpkins. I loved the smell of pumpkin spice," I laugh, the memory warm and fragrant in my mind. "This is a bit of a secret, so please don''t tell anyone, but the biggest reason I practice swinging the sword is because a strange aroma drifts from my sword whenever I do. I don''t know why, but I feel different when I have a sword in my hand."


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    "Can you believe I love fighting?" I chuckle, the absurdity of it not lost on me. "A doctor who likes to fight."


    I hope she doesn''t misunderstand. "I like to fight, but I don''t want to attack people unless they threaten me or mine. Are you okay, Mrs. Patient?"


    [Huo Lian]


    His words shattered my calm mind: "me and mine." I don''t know if he has killed before, but the only time I saw him with killing intent was during the attack. He didn''t look happy then, just determined. He said, "I was worried it might bite you, so I squashed it."


    When he says "me and mine," does that include me already? The thought makes my heart skip a beat. Ahh, he notices, of course. He''s become adept at reading my heart.


    But I know what he means. I am part of his people, his patient. Soon, very soon he will not be my doctor and I will not be his patient.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    ¡°Would you like to come and take a look inside? I haven''t been home in a while, but it shouldn''t be too dusty. I asked the neighbor to come clean a few times,¡± I said, hoping it was clean. If not, I can''t bring Mrs. Patient in. It would be too bad for her health to be in a dusty environment.


    [Huo Lian]


    Oh Gods in heaven, please let it be clean. No way this health freak will let me in otherwise. My anxiety builds more and more, but it doesn''t dampen the excitement of seeing his house. A place where Jian spent his childhood. I use my perception ability to its fullest now, able to sense everything within five feet.


    As we approach, the scent of blooming flowers from the nearby garden mingles with the crisp, sweet aroma of the apple orchard. The path leading to the front door is lined with smooth, rounded stones, each one placed with precision and flanked by rows of vibrant marigolds and peonies. The garden is a riot of color, butterflies flitting from blossom to blossom, adding a touch of liveliness to the tranquil setting. The front porch is spacious, adorned with a pair of rocking chairs and a small wooden table where a porcelain teapot and two cups sit, ready for a moment of respite and conversation. The door, made of solid oak, bears the marks of time yet remains sturdy and welcoming, its brass handle polished to a shine.


    The outside looks well-kept and clean. Now let''s just hope the inside is just as clean.


    The wooden floors are spotless, gleaming with a rich, honey-colored finish. Sunlight streams through large, clean windows, illuminating the simple yet elegant furnishings. A large hearth dominates the main room, its mantle adorned with family photographs and small keepsakes, each telling a story of the lives lived within these walls.


    Thank goodness.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    ¡°Thank goodness, hahaha. I was really worried about showing Mrs. Patient such a dirty place as my family home.¡±


    [Huo Lian]


    Doofus, it would have been my job to clean. Why would you be worried? ¡°This is the farmhouse where I grew up,¡± he says with a goofy grin. His grin looks the same as ten years ago. Haahaa, I think I tried to hold a laugh in at that time too.


    Inside, the farmhouse radiates warmth and homeliness. The wooden floors are spotless, glowing with a honey-colored finish. Sunlight streams through large, clean windows, illuminating the simple yet elegant furnishings. A large hearth dominates the main room, its mantle adorned with family photographs and small keepsakes. Each item tells a story, a glimpse into the lives lived within these walls.


    ¡°This is the main room,¡± Jian explains, his voice soft. ¡°We spent most of the days outside on the farm, but evenings here.¡±


    I sense the wooden floors and the rug in front of the fireplace and couches around it. I can almost see Jian as a child and his parents sitting on the couch watching over him as he played around. Haaha.


    [Zhen Jian]


    As I was about to introduce the kitchen connected to the main room, I sensed something and looked back at Mrs. Patient. She has a gentle smile spread across her face. Her head is slightly turned toward the fireplace. I am lost in her sweet smile for a moment. My smile grows twice the size it was originally. It¡¯s a truly enchanting smile, one that girl, Huo Lian has probably grown up with.

 Chapter 27 Home Invader

    [Huo Lian]


    He seems to have stopped for a moment. I bring my attention back to him, and he is staring at my face. I hope there is nothing wrong with my face right now. No, he wouldn¡¯t let there be anything wrong with my face. He is still like a statue. He seems so content just staring and smiling. Ahh, I wish I could say the same, but I am not content. I have become greedier; I want to do much more than just stare. But I guess looking at his happy smile for a while is not too bad.


    A loud and powerful growl suddenly is heard.


    SSSSS


    SSSSS


    SSSSS


    Suddenly, I hear a series of loud animal noises from the outside. A loud and powerful growl is heard again. I¡¯m going to kill this motherfucker who wrecked such a moment.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I hear the animal noises and quickly awake from my silly daze. To be stunned from a single smile! I hope Mrs. Patient doesn¡¯t think badly of me. But honestly, it was my fault. I was just caught by both nostalgia and the beauty of her smile. Ugh, I am thinking about it again. I shake my head vigorously in an effort to remove any unnecessary thoughts.


    ¡°Mrs. Patient, I am sorry, but it seems there is... uh, a really large bug. I need to make sure it does not bite anyone, so I am going to squish it. I am too worried about you to leave you alone, so please bear with this.¡± I take the sheets and place them to completely cover Mrs. Patient.


    Now it looks like I am a turtle. Haha, with my white robes, I look like a doctor turtle. Teenage Doctor Turtle, how strange?


    [Huo Lian]


    Hmm, this is actually more comfortable. I feel like I am wrapped up in a thick coat. I can still perceive everything as well since the sheets are not too thick for my powers. Then I notice the snake, and my heart begins to fill with anxiety. It is a large snake, about ten feet long. It is azure in color. Its scales shimmer with a deep blue hue, almost like polished sapphires, and its eyes glow with an eerie, luminescent intensity.


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    I recall what I have seen in the palace archives. It is an Azure Serpent. I slowly approach it with my perception, and my heart that was filled with anxiety now is filled with dread. It is an adult Azure Serpent that has reached the fourth stage of core formation, something that was twice as strong as my prime. I use my powers back at Jian and am shocked. He is smiling like he is a battle maniac. He looks like a child receiving candy. Run, you idiot!


    I almost want him to have his candy because he is so happy, but the fourth stage! He killed the assassin before I had a chance to check his power, thus I assumed it was weak. Wait. He killed something before I could even perceive its strength. How strong is Jian?


    [Zhen Jian]


    I sense the presence of the Azure Serpent and instantly recognize the threat it poses. The beast is massive, its azure scales reflecting the sunlight in a mesmerizing yet terrifying way. Its eyes, glowing with an eerie luminescence, lock onto us with predatory intent. I can feel the raw power emanating from it, a formidable opponent indeed. A grabbed my face i was smiling.


    [ Zhen Jian]


    I can''t believe I am smiling so much. If looking at Mrs. Patient gave me a content smile, then looking at the large azure-colored monster before me brings a hungry grin to my face. It feels odd, like the last time I felt this way when I was fighting General Zheng. Why did I feel simple anger when fighting the assassin? Was it pride? I can''t calm my heart right now; it''s pumping so fast. I hope it doesn''t scare Mrs. Patient. But I think I''m going to have a little fun.


    [Huo Lian]


    I''m so surprised at Jian. He looks so happy, but there''s a bit of guilt in his smile when he looks at me on his back. Hahahah, he looks like a child about to do something mischievous. Go have fun, my Jian. I''ve already died once; one more time won''t make a difference. Hahahaha. This, Huo Lian, has always lived free on the knife''s edge. If I can die again here, I wouldn''t mind it one bit.


    [Zhen Jian]


    After trying to calm my heart, I feel something from Mrs. Patient. Does she really want me to do what I want? Ahh, she must think I''m really fighting a large bug. "Sorry, Mrs. Patient, I lied. It''s not a big bug but a big snake. It looks a bit strong. Is it still okay for me to go fight? I will have to run around a lot."


    [Huo Lian]


    Yes, doofus, go and fight to your heart''s content. This will be the second time I wish I could fight by your side. But at least I can protect your back with mine.


    [ Zhen Jian]


    I can feel her approval. It''s strange. I sometimes feel that she knows everything that is going on, but most of the time just goes with what I want to say or do. She is by far the most understanding person I''ve met. And now she is even allowing me to risk her life for my own satisfaction. Not a very doctor thing to do. No, right now, I am Zhen Jian, not Doctor Zhen.


    I look back at the house, then at the ten-foot behemoth sticking its tongue out and displaying its fangs. Yeah, if I put Mrs. Patient down, it will destroy the house in a second. I will stick with her on my back. She is very light anyway; I can barely feel her weight. If I wasn''t always with her and trying to understand her, I wouldn''t even notice her right now as I start fighting the big guy.


    Well, now no matter what, protecting her is the priority, then fighting the monster. Killing it is not necessarily the only option. If I hit it a few times, it might run away. Okay, let''s go for it. "Thank you and sorry, Mrs. Patient, for going along with my selfishness."


    [Huo Lian]


    Have a blast, my Jian.

 Chapter 28 Man Vs Snake

    Chapter 28 Man Vs Snake


    I glance at Mrs. Patient on my back, ensuring she''s securely fastened and won''t fall off no matter how I move. With her safely in place, I draw my sword, Grampa. The old, rusty blade transforms into a blinding white light as I unsheathe it. The transformation never ceases to amaze me.


    The azure-colored serpent hisses, its eyes locking onto me, ready to strike. The air is thick with tension, the scent of earth and blooming flowers now mingled with the metallic tang of anticipation.


    I step forward, my heart racing but my mind clear. "Alright, you big snake. Let''s dance."


    The serpent lunges towards me, spreading its maw wide enough to swallow me whole, its massive body moving with terrifying speed and grace. I sidestep to the left, narrowly avoiding its razor-sharp fangs, each one as long as Grampa. The serpent''s momentum carries it forward as it swings its large tail to attack. I leap and slash downwards with all my strength. In mid-air, a white slash is released from my blade. I hoped to sever more than half its tail, but the result is a deep gash that oozes blood. The wound makes the serpent writhe in pain, becoming more wild and enraged that its majesty was questioned by an ant. After stabilizing itself, the serpent stares at me. It slightly bends its head back and opens its mouth wide.


    A horrible premonition strikes me. I run in zigzags back to the apple orchard.


    WHOOOOOO!


    A thick pillar of water is unleashed like a torrent, destroying every tree that I run behind.


    WHOOOOOO!


    WHOOOOOO!


    WHOOOOOO!


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    WHOOOOOO!


    Each shot of the water pillar uproots a thick, aged tree.


    After the fifth water pillar, the serpent seems out of breath. "Now it''s my turn." I said, starting my offensive. I run towards it, releasing sword slashes again and again. I swing my blade narrowly so that if it tries to dodge one, it will be hit by another. But its reflexes are something to be respected. It dodges narrowly each time. I try to decrease the distance and time between each slash.


    HISSSSSSSSSSSSS!


    I finally hit it with a slash, leaving a bloody trail from its right eye down to its chin.


    The monster now takes me as a threat as much as I take it as a threat. Throughout the fight, my smile never drops for a second, even when I''m moments away from dying with every step.


    My heart pounds like a drum. I feel free, I feel liberated, I feel alive.


    We are at a standoff, staring at one another. One wrong move would lead to my death, and it knows I would do the same to it.


    I grab my sword and perform a feint slash horizontally. The beast ducks, thinking I aimed at its head. I knew I had it. I slash at its only functioning eye. Now totally blinded and bleeding profusely from its face, the serpent thrashes about, the ground trembling in its wake.


    BANG!


    BANG!


    BANG!


    I feel the anger and frustration of the beast. It was a king, and it had been slain by an ant. As it thrashes, more blood sprays out, gushing from both sides of its face and from the first slash on its tail. I take a few steps away from the slithering, half-vanquished foe. Its blue-tinged blood pools beneath it. After some time, its movements begin to slow down. I know it''s over.


    Finally, it loses all its energy and lays on the ground, its proud head now resting on the floor. As it takes its last breath, I walk up to it. I rub its head in appreciation for such an exciting fight. I raise Grampa and plunge it into the serpent''s brain, then pull it out with a twist. The fight is over, but my excitement is still quite alive. I close my eyes in the afterglow of the battle.


    Breathing heavily, I sheath Grampa, the blinding light fading as the old, rusty blade returns to its dormant state. I turn to Huo Lian, my heart still racing but filled with relief.


    ¡°Hahaha, that was so great. Really too much fun,¡± I say aloud, the adrenaline still coursing through my veins. The thrill of the fight had been exhilarating. I glance back at the lifeless body of the azure-colored serpent, thinking of the potential it holds. "I''ll probably have to go back to the clinic to get some tools to dissect the snake. Master left a book that talked about how large animals could actually be cultivation beasts and their bodies are beneficial to humans. Maybe I can use the snake to make something to help with Mrs. Patient¡¯s awakening."


    ¡°Mrs. Patient, thank you so much for dealing with all the shaking. And also thank you very much for letting me fight that thing; it was very enjoyable.¡±


    As I take a step forward, I feel my strength leave me. My legs wobble, and I nearly stumble. "Yeah, I did use more than 30 slashes. When I first learned it, I could only do 12 without dropping. At least this means I am getting stronger. Hahaha. Sorry, Mrs. Patient, it looks like I have to rest. Let¡¯s go and stay at the farmhouse tonight."

 Chapter 29 Eyes

    Chapter 29 Eyes


    [Huo Lian]


    He really did it, I thought, watching as he slowly took wobbly steps towards the farmhouse. The fight was exciting to watch, but to be honest, both sides did not utilize their strengths to their fullest during the fight. I must have been mistaken about it being an adult Azure Serpent. It might have just matured and did not know how to use its strength. Jian, too, is actually much more powerful than the fight conveyed. His sword slash hit the serpent three times before killing it. He missed 27 times.


    Haaa, when I wake up, I need to teach him how to fight properly. I think I need to assess his full strength to better assist him in his training. After staring at his body for a long time, I have grown somewhat tolerant of it. With a purposeful mind, I start to cover him in my perception ability. But why do I feel this strange fear when I have the intention to see inside him to analyze his strength? It is strange. It is like my instincts tell me not to do it. Should I ignore my instincts?


    Doctor Zhen Jian


    Finally, we reached the porch. "Oh my, finally at the porch. Now just a little bit, and I can rest on the couch," I muttered. I glanced back and saw that Mrs. Patient was covered in sweat, looking a bit pale. Well, we did go through a life-or-death situation. I will rest a bit and then give her a bath. But she really is an amazing person, truly fearless. Okay, onto the couch


    Huo Lian


    The moment my perception entered him,I lost consciousness. Now I found myself in a dark world. In this pitch-black world, I felt an enormous being in front of me. In this world, however, I couldn''t use my perception at all. The moment I took a step forward, an eye opened.


    The eye dominated the landscape, an enormous, luminescent orb suspended in the darkness. The sclera was a pristine, almost otherworldly white, shimmering with an eerie iridescence that cut through the blackness. The glow was so intense it felt like it could burn away the shadows, yet it only served to illuminate the abyss further, highlighting the void. The iris, a ring of crystalline blue, was a breathtaking sight, yet it filled me with a primal fear. The blue was deep and unfathomable, like an ocean at midnight. It glimmered with the radiance of countless sapphires, an ever-shifting dance of light and shadow that seemed almost alive. The beauty was hypnotic, drawing me in even as my instincts screamed at me to run.


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    At the center of this mesmerizing blue sea was the pupil, a vertical slit of pure darkness. It was a black so deep it felt like a void within a void, a glimpse into an endless abyss. The pupil narrowed and widened with a slow, rhythmic pulse, like the heartbeat of some ancient, primordial force. Staring into it, I felt as though I could be swallowed whole, lost forever in its depths.


    Standing before it, I was dwarfed by its magnitude, a mere speck in the presence of such a colossal being. The terror gripped me, freezing me in place. My body trembled, not just from fear but from the overwhelming sense of awe. This eye, this horrifying and beautiful eye, had seen worlds rise and fall, had witnessed the birth and death of countless lives.


    Another eye opened beside the first, equally terrifying. The eyes rose into the air, the fear gripping me forcing me to take a step back. However, I was too scared to move. I felt my limbs go weak and I was about to fall, but right before I fell, I was caught by a red feathered wing.


    The wing looked as if it was on fire, but it felt warm and comforting. Tracing upwards from the wing, it displayed a beautiful red bird engulfed by fire. But the fire looked to be originating from itself, part of it. It was the same bird that I had seen before I was woken up after the fall from the waterfalls. The same feeling welled up inside me as before. The feeling of being embraced by the wings and conveying all my grievances to it. This time it kept its focus on the eyes while holding me up with one of its enormous wings.


    The eyes were also staring at the red bird. The air was filled with tension as if the two powerful beings were about to attack one another. Then, when the tension was at its peak, the eyes slowly descended and closed as if nothing had happened. I looked shocked but felt relieved.


    I looked up at the bird. It rubbed my back, the soft, comfortable feeling making me close my eyes. After the feeling left me, I opened my eyes

 Chapter 30 Apples for Lunch

    Chapter 30 Apples for Lunch


    [Huo Lian]


    As I open my eyes, I am greeted by the sight of a wooden roof, its beams rough-hewn and darkened by time. The morning light filters through small cracks, casting a dappled pattern across the ceiling. The room is filled with the scent of aged wood and faint traces of medicinal herbs. Above me is the underside of someone''s face. The person I have sensed but not felt, the person I have heard but not seen. It was him. Tears drop from my eyes as I slowly sit up, the tears unending.


    Once I am finally sitting up right, I feel the effort he has put into keeping my muscles functioning. Day in and day out for 90 days, he would move every muscle to prevent any complications and now I see the result of his unyielding care. He laid me upon his thighs as he slept, his exhaustion evident in the way he slept so soundly.


    "Haha, no doubt he slept.  He was so tired after fighting the serpent," I think as I stare at his face. I can''t help but notice his skin is fairer than I remember from my childhood. Instead of manning his fields, he must have been busy inside reading. No wonder his change in complexion.


    The sudden thought of him being fairer than me prompts me to look down at my hand. It is not the hand I remember. My hand was once filled with cuts and bruises from training and battling. Now, the skin looks smooth and fair, as if it has never seen the brutality of the noon sun or the soft caress of the morning sunshine. I recall the fall and think my body was reforged somehow. I can''t help but be thankful.


    I try to stand, barely managing to do so. Walk back and forth, but it seems I will need practice. For now, let''s go to the kitchen.


    [Doctor Zhen Jian]


    I was so tired from the fight that I could take Mrs. Patient to the bedrooms . I stead I placed her head on my lap as a pillow and fell asleep.


    "Yaaawn," I stretch as I wake from my nap and look down to see how Mrs. Patient is doing. But my lap is empty. "Huh, where did she go? Did she fall and roll away?"


    "Hahaha, you think I am a ball?" I hear a soft laugh, like the chiming of bells, and turn to the side. I see Mrs. Patient walking towards me with a tray. She looks more vibrant, her skin fair and smooth, and her eyes sparkling with life.


    I jump up and exclaim, "Mrs. Patient, you''re awake!" I quickly get up to support her by placing a hand on her back and the other under the tray. "Please, you should rest and not move around too much yet."


    "Haha, Jian, you always worry too much. Thanks to you my body is fine, I don''t feel stiff at all, only a bit weak," she says with a reassuring smile.


    "Okay, let me go make you¡ª" I begin.


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    "Don''t go to the kitchen," she cuts me off and says with a straight face.


    "But don''t you want to eat something?" I ask.


    She smiles and says, "That''s why I brought these." The tray has a cup of water and about half a dozen apples. For some reason, I feel it would be better not to question her right now.


    "And besides, don''t you want to sit down and talk with me?" she says with a large smile.


    "Ah, of course, yes. I have so many questions." I become visibly excited and stand up in agitation.


    "Haha, sit down, sit down. Here, take a bite and ask me anything and everything, Jian." She offers me an apple, but as I try to grab it, she dodges my hand.


    "Jian, come take a bite," she repeats, holding the apple closer to me.


    "Ah, I see. I am sorry.¡± I don''t know why I apologized, but I felt like I did something wrong there." I take a big bite of the apple, the crispness and sweetness filling my mouth. Seeing me take a bite, her smile grows even larger.


    "Good, good, good. Now ask me," she says, wiping off the small amount of juice from the apple off my face with her thumb and then licking it. The gesture gives me goosebumps and makes me very nervous, but my curiosity is too strong to care right now.


    "Okay, so first question: how much do you remember from your comatose state?"


    "Everything," she replies with her large smile. Her smile is really captivating, I think. I then shake my head to remove the useless thoughts.


    [Huo Lian]


    Oh my, he is really easy to read. I tried to put on my best smile for him and he was really dazed for a second. "Hahaha, my Jian, you''re too easy." I finally get to see his eyes. They are bright blue, filled with curiosity and wonder. I knew he had a small ponytail, but I didn''t get to see his dark-as-night hair before.


    Ah, to see, is a wonderful thing.


    "Everything," he repeats and nods. "That''s very good, Mrs.¡ª"


    I cut him off. "Let''s talk about something else. I don''t want to hear ''Mrs. Patient'' anymore. I want to be called something better. Haha, to think I used to hate my name just a few months ago."


    "Okay, what do you want to talk about? You must have been so bored until now. Sorry about that," he says, looking embarrassed. Ah, my Jian is too endearing.


    ¡°No, I was never bored with Jian, but I would like to talk about something. Hmm, let''s talk about the girl you love." I watch his face turn bright red. Haha, I chuckle.


    [Zhen Jian]


    The first conversation we have, and it ends up being something very embarrassing for me. She chuckles again. I really like the sound of her laughing. She has been laughing a lot since she woke up. It''s such a nice sight to see.


    "Uh, okay," I say, embarrassed.


    "Haha, no need to be embarrassed, Jian. These types of things you need to say clearly," she instructs.


    I nod and reply, "Okay, so what do you want to know about her?"


    "Tell me her name," she says. Didn''t she say she remembers everything? Oh well, maybe it''s fun for her to talk about these things like Mrs. Qin.


    "Her name was Huo Lian," I replied. I will never forget her or her name for as long as I live. I hope she is well.


    "I see," she nods while her smile grows. "What is her hair color?" she asks me while twirling her own long hair.


    "It was brown, like yours." That too I couldn''t forget. It was the same as Mrs. Patient''s gentle brown hair.


    She nods and says, "Good, very good." I am kind of confused over the conversation, but as long as she is happy, I guess it''s fine.

 Chapter 31 More Apples

    Chapter 31 More Apples


    [Huo Lian]


    "Jian, I know this girl you know," I say while nodding.


    He jumps off the couch again and says, "Really?!"


    "Haha, sit down, sit down," I say while pulling his hand down to the couch. "Yes, I know her better than anyone else, and she often thinks about the boy she met at the market in the capital," I say as if teaching him something important.


    "No way," he is so shocked, his eyes and mouth open wide.


    "Haha, yes, yes. You can even say she is always thinking of you."


    "Please don''t tease me," he says with his face red. He looks wronged. Aww, he looks like a cute puppy.


    "No, I swear. I can even say with certainty she loves you, maybe even more than you love her," I say as seriously as possible.


    He looks at me shocked, then speaks as if it was harder to do than drawing water out of the desert floor, "But how could you know for certain?"


    I get really close to his ear and whisper, nearly touching his ear with my lips, "Do you really want to know?"


    I can see his ears and face turn bright red, but because he wants to know the answer so much, he stubbornly doesn''t move and slowly nods. I think it''s time to put the nail in the coffin.


    "Because when you arrived at the capital with your father the first time, you were wearing matching green pants. You also were wearing the same pants the second time you came."


    [Zhen Jian]


    "Ahh, yes. Father usually didn''t like wearing shirts because his arms were too big, and I always liked matching his pants with my own. But how did you know?" I didn''t say that part of the story even to Mrs. Qin because I didn''t think it was important.


    She softly chuckles next to my ear and says, "Because both times you met me, of course."


    "Huh?" I couldn''t help but let out a strange noise. I look at her face and ask for clarification. "I am sorry, I don''t understand."


    She smiles just like she did 10 years ago and says, "I am Huo Lian."


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    When she said that, my mind went blank. But her face began to change in my head. I can slowly see the appearance of the cute girl that stole my heart with a single smile.


    It is her.


    I stare at her for such a long time.


    There is no doubt It''s her.


    Every time when she was in a coma and had a small smile, I felt nostalgic, thinking I was missing Huo Lian. And now, when I see her smile, I can''t get enough of it. My heart bursts. I wanted to see her ever since I said goodbye to her. And I have been living with her for the past three months without even realizing it.


    [Huo Lian]


    He just stares at my face without saying anything, but I can visually see his smile growing in real time. It''s different to see him smile with my eyes compared to my sense. This was much more appealing. Not like last time where I felt discontent; right now, I feel content¡ªwell, somewhat content.


    While he was still trying to put his thoughts together, I grabbed the back of his head and pulled him into a gentle embrace. He is much larger and heavier than me, but he feels as light as a feather. He fully allows me to do what I want.


    I wanted to wait until his mind was settled, but I have never been one to wait. I am, after all, used to attacking. While pulling him into my chest, I start to rub the back of his head and tell him what I have wanted to say for so long. "Thank you, Jian, for everything, and yes, I have been loving you since you gave me my first apple."


    [Zhen Jian]


    When she said that, my whole body shivered as if it was in so much delight it couldn¡¯t stand it. While I was embraced by her, I slowly closed my eyes and brought my hands around her waist. I pulled myself deeper into her embrace, and she kept rubbing the back of my head, constantly reminding me of her feelings.


    We lingered in each other¡¯s embrace. I don''t know how long it has been, but I was worried about her. I don''t know if she has eaten anything since she woke up. I bring up my question.


    "Uhhh," but then my tongue gets tied. What do I call her? I can¡¯t call her Mrs. Patient¡ªI only did that because she couldn¡¯t speak and I didnt know her name.. Huo Lian seemed a bit distant. And I would need to ask permission before calling her something intimate like Lian.


    [Huo Lian]


    My eyes are closed, and his head is still cradled between my chest and neck. I am still rubbing his head gently. I have already become addicted to this feeling, but I can tell he wants to ask me something but doesn''t know what to call me. I smile. Good, if he called me Mrs. Patient even now, I think I would bite his ear.


    "Call me Lian, Jian." I make the choice for him.


    "Uhh, Lian, I wanted to ask if you ate anything yet," he asks in his ever-caring voice. Ah, but he brought up the subject that I was trying to avoid.


    "We will be eating apples," I make my stance clear. I put more strength in the hands holding his head and say, "Also, you are not allowed to go to the kitchen today."


    I can almost feel his confusion, but just thinking about the kitchen makes my face burn red. He is for sure not going to the kitchen today.


    "Uhhh, okay," he says, the confusion evident in his voice.


    It makes me happy that he doesn''t ask why. I slowly drop his head to my thighs, and he adjusts accordingly. He faces my stomach while lying on his side, his hands still curled around my waist, and my hands still busy messing with his hair. Then he says something only this doofus would say, "We both like apples, so we can have them for lunch and dinner."


    I chuckle softly, my heart full as I look down at him. This moment, this simplicity, feels perfect.