《Jade Mountain Cultivator》 Chapter 1: The Fall The forest is too quiet today. I can feel it¡ªsomething¡¯s off. But I keep moving, step by step, like I¡¯ve done a thousand times before. The trees stand tall, their leaves rustling faintly, but there''s no breeze. No animals. It¡¯s like the world is holding its breath. I don¡¯t like wandering this far out. The sect has rules, warnings, and stories that echo through the halls. The deeper parts of the forest are forbidden to disciples. Too many risks. Too many dangers. But I¡¯ve got no choice. I need to find something worthwhile to bring back to the sect¡ªsomething rare enough to sell, something that¡¯ll buy me a pill. A pill that might help me cultivate faster.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. The herbs I¡¯ve gathered so far won¡¯t cut it. The price is too low. But if I can find something valuable, something that the sect doesn¡¯t have in abundance, I can get the resources I need. I need that pill. The path beneath my feet is narrow, overgrown with tangled vines and rocks that shift with every step. I push forward, the weight of my satchel pulling at my shoulder. It¡¯s too quiet, and I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s the silence or the worry gnawing at my insides that makes me uneasy. I force myself to keep going. But then, there¡¯s a thump beneath my feet. A soft rumble. The ground gives way. I don¡¯t even have time to react before the earth crumbles beneath me, and I¡¯m falling. I brace myself, but it¡¯s no use. The rocks scrape against my skin, the wind rushing past my ears, and then¡ªthud. I hit the ground hard. Everything goes black. Chapter 2: Awakening The first thing I feel is the ache in my head. It¡¯s a dull, throbbing pain that spreads across my skull like a thousand needles pricking at me. I groan, trying to push myself up, but my arms are heavy, as if they¡¯ve been weighted down by rocks. The ground beneath me is hard and cold, and the smell of damp earth fills my nostrils. I blink a few times, trying to clear the fog from my mind, but the darkness around me is overwhelming. The only light is a faint, flickering glow that seems to come from nowhere. I squint, forcing my eyes to adjust. Slowly, the world around me begins to take shape¡ªstone walls, jagged and rough, rising up on all sides. I¡¯m in some sort of cave. I try to sit up, but my body protests, every muscle sore from the fall. My hands find purchase on the ground, and I push myself upright, feeling the sharpness of the rocks beneath my palms. I take a deep breath, steadying myself, and slowly rise to my feet. My legs feel like jelly, but they hold. What the hell happened? The memories come back in fragments¡ªmy steps, the ground shifting beneath me, and then nothing but the fall. I scan the area around me, my heart pounding in my chest. I¡¯m not sure how far I¡¯ve fallen, but it¡¯s far enough that the sunlight is nowhere to be seen. The air is damp, the walls slick with moisture, and the silence presses down on me like a weight. I take a cautious step forward, my foot slipping slightly on the uneven ground. The flickering light seems to pulse from somewhere deeper in the cave. I can¡¯t tell where it¡¯s coming from, but it¡¯s enough to guide me. I start to panic. I need to move. I need to get out of here.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. The path ahead is narrow, winding through the rock. I move carefully, each step slow, deliberate. My fingers brush against the cold stone as I go, trying to steady myself. I can¡¯t shake the feeling that I¡¯m not alone here. That something is watching me. But there¡¯s nothing. I round a bend in the cave, and then I see it. A small shrine, carved into the stone, stands before me. It¡¯s old¡ªancient, even. The stone is worn and weathered, but the intricate designs are still visible, faint traces of what once was. At the center of the shrine is a carving¡ªa jade mountain, small but lifelike, its curves and edges so finely shaped it almost looks like it could come to life at any moment. My breath catches in my throat. What is this? I step closer, my hand instinctively reaching out. The jade is cool to the touch, smooth under my fingertips. The mountain seems to pulse, just faintly, like it¡¯s alive. It feels¡­ important. I don¡¯t know why, but something in me tells me I need to take it. I don¡¯t know what it is, but I know it¡¯s not something I should leave behind. My heart races as I carefully lift the jade mountain from its pedestal. It feels oddly warm in my hands, like it¡¯s already attuned to me in some way. A soft hum fills the air, and for a moment, I think I hear a voice. It¡¯s faint, distant, but it¡¯s there. I shake my head, trying to clear the fog that¡¯s still clouding my thoughts. Focus, Tao. I turn and start heading back the way I came, the jade mountain still cradled in my hands. The glow from the shrine fades as I move away, but the warmth in my palms doesn¡¯t. It¡¯s like the mountain is calling to me, pulling me forward. I can¡¯t explain it, but the feeling won¡¯t leave me. It¡¯s not a compulsion, not a mystical pull. It¡¯s something deeper, more primal. I need to understand what this is. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s waiting for me when I leave this cave, but for the first time since I fell, I feel like I might just have found something that will change everything. Chapter 3: The Path Forward I don¡¯t know how long I¡¯ve been walking, but my legs ache with every step. The narrow cave passage twists and turns, forcing me to crouch low at times, my body pressed against the cold stone. Strange carving of plants adorn the passage ways. The weight of the jade mountain in my hands is a constant reminder of the unexpected encounter in the shrine. It¡¯s still warm, as if it¡¯s alive in some way, pulsing with a subtle energy that makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. The silence is unbearable. No birds, no rustling leaves, no sounds of life at all. It¡¯s like the world outside doesn¡¯t exist anymore. I keep my eyes on the path ahead, my breath shallow and steady, but every now and then, I can¡¯t shake the feeling that I¡¯m being watched. I reach another bend, and as I round the corner, I see something that makes my heart skip a beat¡ªa sliver of light. It¡¯s faint, just a glimmer in the distance, but it¡¯s enough to push me forward. The air feels fresher here, less stifling. I take a deep breath, the coolness filling my lungs, and quicken my pace. The jade mountain is still warm, its energy almost vibrating in my palms. The hum I thought I heard earlier is louder now, a soft whisper in my ears, like a call that I can¡¯t quite understand. And then, just as I¡¯m about to turn another corner, I see it. The entrance. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Light pours in from above, the daylight cutting through the darkness of the cave. I squint against the sudden brightness, my eyes not yet used to the contrast. The cave opens up to a clearing, a wide space that feels¡­ different. The air here is thick with energy, but it¡¯s not like the dense weight of the cave. It¡¯s lighter, almost refreshing, as though the very ground itself is breathing. I take a tentative step forward, my eyes scanning the area. The clearing is small, no more than a few paces wide, surrounded by tall trees whose trunks stretch up far beyond what I can see. Vines hang loosely from the branches, swaying in a breeze I can¡¯t feel. The ground beneath my feet is soft, covered with moss, but there¡¯s something more to it. It¡¯s as if the soil itself is alive, humming with an energy that makes my skin tingle. I stop dead in my tracks. In the heart of the clearing stands a towering mountain, its slopes covered in lush greenery. The peak rises so high that it vanishes into the mist above, obscured from view. Surrounding the base of the mountain is a circle of ancient stones, each glowing faintly with an ethereal light. As I draw closer, I realise these aren¡¯t ordinary rocks; they hum with a quiet energy, a light that mirrors the soft radiance emanating from the jade mountain in my hands. I freeze. The jade mountain¡­ it¡¯s reacting. The warmth intensifies, and I feel a strange pull toward the spirit peak. The connection between the two is undeniable, like they¡¯re calling to each other. I can almost hear the hum again, louder now, as though it¡¯s urging me to do something, to move. My heart races, and for a moment, I¡¯m afraid. Afraid of what this place might be, afraid of what the jade mountain is doing to me. But then, something inside me pushes the fear aside. This is the opportunity I¡¯ve been searching for. The jade mountain is meant for this. I step forward, and the ground beneath me seems to shift, responding to my every movement. The air is charged with energy, crackling with the potential of something ancient, something powerful. As I approach, I can feel the energy of the spirit peak calling to me, reaching out through the jade mountain, pulling me closer. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going to happen next, but I know this is where my path begins. This is the start of something new. Chapter 4: The Spirit Mountain I stand at the edge of the clearing, staring at the spirit peak that looms before me. The air hums with an energy I can¡¯t begin to understand, yet I feel drawn to it, as though the mountain itself is waiting for me to take the next step. The jade mountain in my hands feels like it¡¯s burning now, but not in a painful way. It¡¯s a heat that flows through my palms, like the pulse of a heartbeat, steady and insistent. I don¡¯t know what this place is, but the connection between the jade mountain and the spirit peak is undeniable. The energy between them is tangible, like a bridge spanning the gap between two worlds. I step closer, the ground beneath me soft and spongy. The air is thick with the scent of earth and something else, something sweet, like the smell of fresh herbs after a rainstorm. The jade mountain hums in my hands, and without thinking, I lift it toward the peak. For a moment, nothing happens. I hold my breath, waiting. The energy crackles in the air, growing stronger with every passing second. Then, as if responding to my touch, the jade mountain shudders. A pulse of light shoots out from it, connecting with the spirit peak in the center of the pond. The glow from the peak intensifies, bathing the clearing in a soft, golden light. I gasp, stumbling back. The light is blinding, and for a moment, I think I¡¯m going to be consumed by it. But instead of feeling fear, I feel¡­ power. It surges through me, filling every inch of my body, rushing into my veins like fire, like a current I can¡¯t control. I close my eyes against the brilliance, my heart racing, my breath coming in sharp gasps. Then, just as suddenly as it began, the light fades. The energy settles, and the clearing falls silent again. My hands are still gripping the jade mountain, but it no longer feels like just a stone. It feels¡­ alive. The warmth is still there, but it¡¯s different now, as if the jade has fused with me in some way. I don¡¯t know how to explain it, but the connection between us is stronger than ever.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. I open my eyes and look around. The spirit peak remains, but now, there¡¯s something else. The stones surrounding the peak glow more brightly now, their light pulsing in rhythm with the jade mountain in my hands. And then, I hear it¡ªa voice. It¡¯s not a voice I can hear with my ears, but one I can feel in my mind, like a whisper in the depths of my consciousness. ¡°Young one, you have awakened the mountain. The path is now open.¡± I freeze, my heart skipping a beat. The voice is soft, distant, but it¡¯s there. It¡¯s as if the spirit peak is speaking to me, acknowledging me, guiding me. The path is open. I don¡¯t know what that means, but something deep inside me tells me that this is the moment I¡¯ve been waiting for. This is my chance to rise above the limitations I¡¯ve always faced. The jade mountain, the spirit peak¡ªeverything is connected, and it¡¯s all leading me toward something greater. I look down at the jade mountain, still warm in my hands, and I make a decision. I step forward. As soon as my feet touch the surface, I feel it can feel the energy intensifying. Each step I take closer to the peak resonates with me. The stones around the peak glow brighter. The jade mountain thrums in my hands, responding to the peak. It¡¯s like it¡¯s alive, and I¡¯m its conduit, its chosen vessel. The more I move, the more I feel the energy flowing through me, and with it comes a sense of purpose, a sense of power I¡¯ve never known before. The voice speaks again, but this time, it¡¯s clearer, stronger. ¡°You have unlocked the first step. The mountain will nurture you, and you will nurture it in return.¡± I don¡¯t fully understand the words, but the meaning is clear. This is a partnership. The spirit peak will help me, guide me, but I must give something in return. I don¡¯t know what that is yet, but I know I¡¯ll figure it out. I stand at the base of the spirit peak,mist swirls around me, and I close my eyes, feeling the connection between the jade mountain, the spirit peak, and myself grow stronger with every passing moment. I don¡¯t know where this path will lead, but for the first time in my life, I feel like I¡¯m on the right track. The path forward is clear. Chapter 5: The First Lesson The jade mountain¡¯s pulse thrummed steadily within my hands, matching the rhythm of my heartbeat. The mist around the spirit peak swirled with purpose, alive and waiting. I stood still, sensing the power in the air. It was overwhelming, but something else¡ªan unseen presence¡ªseemed to guide me forward. Then, the voice came. Clear and calm, it resonated deep in my mind. ¡°The first lesson is complete. But the path ahead requires more than your will. You must prove your understanding. Nourish the land, and it will nourish you. Find the spiritual herbs worthy of this place. Plant them where they belong, and the mountain will open to you.¡± The words lingered, filling me with certainty. I looked around. The ground at the base of the peak was rich and fertile, but the energy here was selective. Only certain herbs could survive in it¡ªthose strong enough to endure the mountain¡¯s power.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. I took a step forward, the earth soft beneath my boots. The jade mountain in my hands grew warmer, its energy resonating with the peak. The connection felt alive, waiting for me to act. The voice returned, resolute. ¡°Find the spiritual herbs of a suitable grade. Only then will you climb further.¡± I nodded, the challenge clear. The task wasn¡¯t about power alone¡ªit was about care and understanding. I needed to find the right herbs and nurture them here. I turned back toward the path I had come from, only to find the mist thickening, blocking my way. Frustration rose, but I steadied myself. Lifting the jade mountain, I infused it with my spiritual energy, willing it to guide me. The jade mountain glowed briefly, its warmth spreading through me, and then everything went black. When I awoke, I was lying in the forest, surrounded by familiar trees. My hands felt empty, and panic gripped me until I closed my eyes and reached inward. The jade mountain was no longer in my hands¡ªit had fused with me, resting in my dantian, a steady presence within my spiritual core. Relief washed over me. The jade mountain was still with me, and the bond between us had grown stronger. Though the task ahead was daunting, I felt ready to begin. Chapter 6: Returning to the Sect The journey back to the Verdant Dawn Sect was grueling. The forest seemed denser than before, and the jade mountain within my dantian hummed faintly, as if testing my endurance. I clutched my robes tighter against the morning chill, my steps hurried but careful. It had been nearly half a day since I awoke in the forest, disoriented but determined. The sect lay nestled in the foothills beyond Emerald Hollow City, and though the distance wasn¡¯t insurmountable, the weight of my thoughts made it feel endless. The jade mountain was now a part of me. Its power lingered, like an ember waiting to ignite, but I dared not draw upon it. Not yet. The voice¡¯s command to find spiritual herbs echoed in my mind, filling me with a sense of urgency. But first, I had to face the sect.
The Verdant Dawn Sect The Verdant Dawn Sect wasn¡¯t grand, at least not compared to the great sects of legend. It occupied a modest compound near the city, surrounded by rolling hills and patches of farmland. Stone walls enclosed the sect, offering both protection and seclusion, while simple wooden buildings dotted the grounds. At its heart stood the Verdant Hall, where the sect¡¯s Patriarch Yu Tian¡ªa cultivator at the Foundation Establishment level¡ªresided. Though not powerful by the standards of larger sects, the patriarch was respected for his fairness and steady leadership. Beneath him were the elders, all at various stages of Qi Condensation, who oversaw the sect¡¯s daily affairs. The sect was split into three tiers:
  1. Outer Disciples ¨C The majority, tasked with menial labor and basic cultivation.
  2. Inner Disciples ¨C More advanced students, responsible for specialized tasks like refining pills, crafting talismans, or tending the herb gardens.
  3. Core Disciples ¨C The elite few who had proven their worth and cultivated beyond the first few levels of Qi Condensation.
I was an inner disciple, but barely. My rank was near the bottom, and I had languished at the peak of the first level of Qi Condensation for years. The frustration of my stagnation had driven me to the forbidden forest, a risk I knew could end in punishment¡ªor worse.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.
Emerald Hollow City Emerald Hollow City was the lifeblood of the sect. A medium-sized city bustling with merchants, artisans, and cultivators, it was known for its proximity to two rival sects: the Verdant Dawn Sect and the Ironwood Tower Sect. The two competed fiercely for recruits, resources, and influence, though the Ironwood Tower Sect, with its stronger patriarch, often had the upper hand. I had grown up in Emerald Hollow, the son of a shopkeeper who sold mundane herbs. When I was accepted into the Verdant Dawn Sect, it had been the proudest day of my family¡¯s life. But years of mediocrity had dulled their pride¡ªand my own.
The Return The sun was low on the horizon when I reached the sect gates. Two outer disciples stood guard, their post more ceremonial than functional. They glanced at me but said nothing as I passed. The inner courtyard was quiet, the disciples scattered about their duties. I headed toward the Herb Pavilion, where I worked cultivating spiritual plants used in pills and elixirs. The familiar scent of soil and herbs calmed my nerves, but I knew it wouldn¡¯t last. As I entered the pavilion, Elder Hua, the overseer of the herb gardens, spotted me immediately. She was a stern woman with sharp eyes that missed nothing. ¡°You¡¯ve been gone too long, Tao,¡± she said, her voice clipped. ¡°Where were you?¡± I hesitated. ¡°I went to the forest to gather herbs, Elder Hua. I lost track of time.¡± Her eyes narrowed. ¡°You¡¯ve been warned about wandering too far. What did you find that took so long?¡± I swallowed hard, my mind racing for an answer. ¡°Just some low-grade herbs. Nothing of value.¡± Her gaze lingered, and I forced myself to remain still. Finally, she sighed. ¡°Return to your duties. But don¡¯t let this happen again. The sect has no place for those who shirk their responsibilities.¡± ¡°Yes, Elder,¡± I said, bowing deeply.
A Hidden Power Back in my small corner of the gardens, I knelt by a row of Spirit Lotus Saplings, my hands moving automatically as I tended the plants. The jade mountain in my dantian pulsed faintly, as though mocking my mundane tasks. The voice¡¯s command was clear: I needed spiritual herbs strong enough to thrive in the energy of the spirit peak. But how could I gather them without drawing attention? The sect¡¯s resources were limited, and Elder Hua would surely notice if I took anything valuable. My gaze drifted toward the distant Verdant Hall, where the sect stored its most prized herbs. The idea was absurd, dangerous¡ªbut the jade mountain burned with potential, urging me forward. I clenched my fists. For now, I would wait, plan, and bide my time. But deep down, I knew the mountain had set me on a path that would change everything. Chapter 7: Seeds of Change Tao sat cross-legged in his small quarters, the flickering light of a lantern casting shadows on the wooden walls. His satchel lay beside him, its contents of gathered herbs pitiful compared to what he needed. He exhaled slowly, his mind turning to his sect credits. Sect credits were the currency of the Verdant Dawn Sect, earned through tasks and contributions. Tending the herb gardens, gathering spiritual herbs, assisting in alchemy, and performing missions for the elders all rewarded varying amounts of credits. But for a low-ranked inner disciple like Tao, opportunities were scarce, and the pay was meager. He¡¯d been saving credits for years, hoping to purchase a Fragrant Meridian Pill, a mid-tier elixir designed to push cultivators at the peak of the first level of Qi Condensation into the second level. It cost 500 sect credits¡ªa fortune by Tao¡¯s standards. He reached into a small chest and pulled out a wooden token etched with his disciple number. Placing it on a jade slate embedded in the wall, the slate glowed faintly, displaying his balance: 426 sect credits. ¡°Not enough,¡± Tao muttered, leaning back against the wall. He had been so close to buying the pill, but the jade mountain¡¯s task had changed everything. Now, he needed to invest in spirit plants and herbs instead.
Grades of Spirit Plants and Herbs Tao spent the next few hours poring over the Sect Catalogue, a thick manual stored in the Herb Pavilion. It listed all the spiritual plants and herbs the sect cultivated, categorized by grade: Tao skimmed the descriptions of Profound and Earth Grade plants. He had no chance of acquiring Heaven or higher-grade plants¡ªthe sect didn¡¯t have them, and even if it did, they would be locked away in the Verdant Hall. The spirit peak¡¯s energy had felt far beyond what a Mortal Grade plant could endure, but Tao wasn¡¯t certain how high he needed to aim. The safest bet would be to start with Profound Grade plants and work his way up. He flipped through the catalogue, stopping at entries for Profound Grade herbs. One caught his attention: Moonlit Fern ¨C A resilient herb with moderate spiritual energy. Known for its adaptability and ability to grow in unstable environments. It cost 120 sect credits per seedling.This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Tao frowned. He could afford a few seedlings, but if they failed, it would be a costly mistake.
A Shared Garden The next morning, Tao made his way to the herb gardens. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of earth and dew. The gardens were divided into sections, each tended by small groups of inner disciples. Tao worked alongside two others: Lian, a quiet girl with a sharp mind for cultivation techniques, and Wei, a loud and brash disciple who often boasted of his non-existent talent. ¡°Tao, you¡¯re finally back,¡± Wei called out, his tone half-mocking. ¡°I thought the forest swallowed you whole!¡± Lian glanced up from her work, her expression neutral. ¡°You¡¯ve been gone a while. Elder Hua wasn¡¯t pleased.¡± ¡°I was gathering herbs,¡± Tao replied, keeping his voice even. He knelt beside a row of Spirit Lotus Saplings, his hands moving automatically to check the soil¡¯s moisture. Wei smirked. ¡°Must¡¯ve been low-grade ones if you didn¡¯t bring anything impressive back.¡± Ignoring him, Tao turned to Lian. ¡°Have you ever worked with Profound Grade plants?¡± She paused, brushing dirt from her hands. ¡°A few times. They¡¯re temperamental, especially without proper soil. Why?¡± ¡°I¡¯m thinking of planting some Moonlit Ferns,¡± Tao said carefully. ¡°They might be useful for a project I¡¯m working on.¡± Wei snorted. ¡°Moonlit Ferns? Those are expensive, and you¡¯re not exactly swimming in credits.¡± Tao resisted the urge to snap back. ¡°I¡¯ll manage.¡± Lian tilted her head, studying him. ¡°If you¡¯re serious, make sure you mix powdered Spirit Ash into the soil. It stabilizes the energy flow. I can spare some if you need it.¡± ¡°Thanks,¡± Tao said, genuinely grateful.
A Risky Decision Later that day, Tao returned to the Herb Pavilion and purchased three Moonlit Fern seedlings, spending 360 sect credits. The transaction left him with just 66 credits, a sobering reminder of how much he had gambled. Back in the garden, he prepared a small plot of soil away from the others, mixing in the Spirit Ash Lian had given him. The jade mountain within his dantian pulsed faintly, as though approving his efforts. With painstaking care, Tao planted the seedlings, ensuring they were spaced evenly and covered with just the right amount of soil. As he finished, he sat back on his heels, staring at the small, fragile plants. Would they thrive in the spirit peak¡¯s energy? Or would he have to start over with a higher grade? The jade mountain offered no answers, its warmth steady but silent. Tao sighed, wiping the sweat from his brow. For now, all he could do was wait¡ªand hope. As he worked, doubts gnawed at him. Why not plant them directly on the spirit mountain? The answer was simple, yet it made his chest tighten. He didn¡¯t dare. The jade mountain was too extraordinary. If anyone found out he had it, they would kill him for it without hesitation. Even if he wanted to use it, he had no idea how to summon it from his dantian without drawing attention. And then there was the risk of failure. The seedlings were delicate, and the spirit peak¡¯s energy was overwhelming. If they died, he¡¯d lose everything. By nurturing them in pots first, he could strengthen their roots and ensure they were ready for such an environment.
What If It Works? As Tao pressed the final seedling into its pot, he paused to consider the possibilities. If the Moonlit Ferns thrived on the spirit mountain, they could become a valuable resource. Moonlit Ferns were prized in alchemy for their ability to stabilize volatile pill recipes. A single mature plant could fetch enough sect credits to buy the Fragrant Meridian Pill he had been saving for. Better yet, if he succeeded in growing higher-grade plants later, he might even earn the recognition of the elders¡ªor perhaps even the patriarch himself. Still, success was far from guaranteed. Chapter 8: Safe and Secure Tao¡¯s living quarters were as modest as one might expect for someone at the bottom of the Verdant Dawn Sect¡¯s inner disciple rankings. His room was a cramped space tucked into a row of identical wooden huts near the outer disciples¡¯ barracks. Each hut housed three inner disciples, separated by thin wooden partitions that barely muffled sound. Tao shared his space with Wei, the loud-mouthed braggart, and Jian, a quiet but watchful disciple who rarely spoke but always seemed to know what everyone was doing. A simple cot, a small desk, and a single shelf for personal belongings were all Tao had to call his own. The shelf was cluttered with old manuals, scraps of parchment, and a few dried herbs. His satchel lay beneath the cot, tucked away as securely as possible. He sat cross-legged on the cot, staring at the three pots on his desk. The Moonlit Fern seedlings were fragile and valuable, their silver leaves glimmering faintly in the lantern light. The thought of leaving them here while he worked in the herb gardens gnawed at him. ¡°What if someone steals them?¡± he muttered under his breath. Jian wasn¡¯t the type to meddle, but Wei had a habit of poking around where he didn¡¯t belong. And then there was the risk of visitors or wandering disciples. A Plan for Security Tao sighed and stood, pacing the small room. The jade mountain in his dantian pulsed faintly, its presence steady but silent. He needed a solution. The seedlings would take time to grow, and he couldn¡¯t keep watch over them every hour of the day. He glanced at the manuals on his shelf, then at the door. The Jade Slip Pavilion, the sect¡¯s library, was his best option. If he could find information on concealing spiritual items, it might buy him some peace of mind. Tao carefully wrapped the pots in cloth to disguise them and placed them back on the desk. He locked the door¡ªa futile gesture, given the flimsy wooden latch¡ªbut it was all he could do for now. The Jade Slip Pavilion The library was a modest building compared to the grandeur of larger sects, its rows of wooden shelves holding jade slips and scrolls arranged by subject. A small plaque near the entrance detailed the borrowing rules, which Tao had long since memorized:
  1. Outer Disciples ¨C No access to the library.
  2. Inner Disciples ¨C Free access to foundational jade slips and scrolls in the Beginner Section. Advanced techniques require sect credits or special approval.
  3. Core Disciples ¨C Privileged access to most of the library, with only the highest-level slips restricted to elder supervision.
Elder Zhou, a thin, elderly man with sharp eyes, sat at a desk near the entrance, recording the names of disciples who entered. As Tao approached, Elder Zhou barely looked up from his scroll. ¡°Tao,¡± the elder said, his voice dry, ¡°still clinging to the Beginner Section, I see. Don¡¯t waste your time dreaming of what¡¯s beyond your rank.¡± ¡°I¡¯m here for something on concealment, Elder,¡± Tao replied, bowing respectfully. Zhou gave a faint snort and gestured toward the second aisle. ¡°Anything you borrow must be returned within three days and remember¡ªstay in your station.¡±Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. ¡°Yes, Elder,¡± Tao said, keeping his tone humble. He scanned the shelves of the Beginner Section, his fingers brushing against the faintly glowing jade slips. Many were dusty, their contents so basic that most inner disciples ignored them after their first year. Finally, he found what he was looking for: ¡°Concealment Arrays for Beginners.¡± Tao exhaled in relief. Foundational techniques like this one were free for inner disciples to borrow, though their simplicity often meant limited usefulness. If he wanted anything more advanced, he¡¯d need sect credits¡ªor the favour of an elder, which seemed even less likely. A New Rival As Tao settled into a corner to read, a voice interrupted him. ¡°Still stuck at the first level, Tao?¡± He stiffened, recognizing the voice. Yun Fei, a senior inner disciple, stood nearby with a smirk on his face. Yun Fei was everything Tao wasn¡¯t¡ªtalented, confident, and dangerously ambitious. ¡°I¡¯m here to learn,¡± Tao replied evenly, refusing to rise to the bait. ¡°Learning is useless without talent,¡± Yun Fei said, plucking a jade slip from the shelf. ¡°You should focus on weeding the gardens. That¡¯s more your speed.¡± Tao bit back a retort. Yun Fei wasn¡¯t worth the energy. He returned to his reading, ignoring the snicker that followed as Yun Fei walked away. Tasks from Elder Hua The next morning, Tao was summoned to the Herb Pavilion, where Elder Hua was inspecting the gardens. Her sharp eyes scanned the rows of Spirit Lotus Saplings, noting every imperfection. ¡°Tao,¡± she called, gesturing him over. ¡°I need you to replant these saplings into larger pots. Their roots are outgrowing the soil.¡± ¡°Yes, Elder,¡± Tao said, bowing. ¡°Once that¡¯s done, gather fresh Spirit Ash from the storage room. We¡¯re running low, and the other disciples are too careless with it.¡± ¡°Yes, Elder,¡± he repeated. Elder Hua¡¯s tasks kept him busy for most of the day, but his thoughts kept drifting back to the seedlings in his quarters. He couldn¡¯t shake the worry that something might happen to them. A Step Toward Safety That evening, Tao returned to his quarters, clutching a jade slip titled ¡°Concealment Arrays for Beginners¡± that he had borrowed from the library. The text detailed several simple arrays designed to obscure spiritual energy, but even the simplest technique seemed daunting. The array he chose, "Veil of Stillness," required specific materials: Spirit Ash, Ironroot Powder, and a fragment of Glowing Chalkstone. Spirit Ash was plentiful in the Herb Garden, but the other items would cost him credits. Earlier, Tao had gone to the Herb Pavilion. The cost for the materials came to 15 sect credits, leaving him with a meager 51 credits. Back in his quarters, Tao spread the materials on his desk and studied the array¡¯s diagram carefully. The lines and symbols had to be drawn in precise proportions, and the array¡¯s power depended on his ability to channel spiritual energy evenly through the markings. The first attempt was a failure. The lines glowed faintly before sputtering out, the energy dissipating into the air. Tao gritted his teeth, wiped the desk clean, and started again. The second attempt was no better. The spiritual energy surged too quickly, cracking the chalkstone fragment and rendering the array useless. By the third attempt, his frustration was palpable. Sweat dripped down his brow as he traced the final line, this time slowing his breathing and carefully guiding his spiritual energy through the array. The markings shimmered, then settled into a faint, pulsing glow before fading from sight. ¡°It worked,¡± Tao whispered, slumping back in relief. The Veil of Stillness was now active, masking the seedlings¡¯ spiritual signature. It wasn¡¯t a perfect solution¡ªthe array would need to be refreshed every few days¡ªbut it was enough to buy him time. Satisfied, Tao sat back and stared at the seedlings. The faint glow of their silver leaves filled him with a renewed sense of purpose. If they thrived, they could change everything. Chapter 9: Garden Rivalries Jian worked quietly a few rows over, his movements precise and deliberate. He rarely spoke, but when he did, his words had a sharpness that belied his quiet nature. ¡°If you spent as much time tending the herbs as you do talking about yourself, Wei,¡± Jian said without looking up, ¡°the garden might actually improve.¡± Wei glared at him, the flush of embarrassment creeping up his neck. ¡°Oh, come on, Jian. You¡¯re one to talk. Always lurking around, watching everyone like some kind of spirit beast. What¡¯s your deal, anyway?¡± Jian didn¡¯t respond immediately, his hands continuing to trim the leaves of a Gilded Vine. Finally, he glanced up, his expression unreadable. ¡°My deal is doing the work Elder Hua assigns without killing the plants.¡± Tao couldn¡¯t stop the snicker that escaped him, though he quickly ducked his head when Wei turned his glare in his direction. ¡°And you, Tao?¡± Wei shot back, his voice rising. ¡°What are you laughing at? Still stuck at the first level of Qi Condensation? I bet even those Moonlit Ferns you¡¯re fussing over won¡¯t grow.¡± Tao straightened, meeting Wei¡¯s gaze. ¡°Better to try than to brag about things I haven¡¯t done.¡± The jab landed, and Wei opened his mouth to respond, but a sharp cough from the edge of the garden silenced him. Elder Hua stood there, arms crossed, her expression severe. ¡°If you three are done wasting time,¡± she said, her voice slicing through the tension, ¡°there¡¯s work to be done. Tao, finish transplanting those saplings. Wei, fetch more Spirit Ash from the storage room. And Jian, see to the Water Lily patch¡ªit¡¯s overdue for pruning.¡±This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. ¡°Yes, Elder,¡± they murmured in unison, bowing before scattering to their tasks. Tao worked diligently, but his thoughts kept drifting back to the seedlings in his quarters. The Veil of Stillness array should be enough to mask their spiritual energy, but the worry gnawed at him. If Wei ever got curious¡ªor careless¡ªit could all come crashing down. Jian was another matter. Tao glanced at him from across the garden. Jian¡¯s quiet nature and sharp intellect made him harder to predict. If anyone noticed something unusual, it would be him. Later that evening, as Tao approached his quarters, he saw Wei lounging outside the door, tossing a small pebble into the air and catching it lazily. ¡°Took you long enough,¡± Wei said, straightening up as Tao neared. ¡°What are you hiding in there, anyway?¡± Tao¡¯s heart skipped a beat, but he kept his expression neutral. ¡°Nothing. Just tired from the day¡¯s work.¡± Wei¡¯s eyes narrowed, but before he could press further, Jian rounded the corner, carrying a bundle of dried herbs. ¡°Leave him alone, Wei,¡± Jian said, his tone calm but firm. ¡°We all have enough to worry about without you sticking your nose where it doesn¡¯t belong.¡± Wei snorted but backed off, muttering something under his breath as he walked away. Jian lingered for a moment, his gaze flicking to the door before meeting Tao¡¯s eyes. ¡°Be careful,¡± he said softly, then turned and disappeared down the hall. Inside, Tao checked the seedlings, relieved to find them undisturbed. Their faint silver glow seemed brighter now, almost as if they were responding to his presence. He refreshed the array, his hands steady despite the unease in his chest. Both Wei and Jian posed risks in their own ways¡ªWei with his meddling and Jian with his perceptiveness. Still, Tao couldn¡¯t let fear stop him. The seedlings were his chance to rise above mediocrity, to prove his worth in a sect where he was barely noticed. If they grew, they could change everything. For now, all he could do was nurture them¡ªand stay vigilant. Chapter 10: A Frustrating Path The sun had barely risen when Tao entered the Herb Pavilion, already bracing himself for the day ahead. He was greeted by the usual chatter of disciples at work, their voices blending with the rustle of leaves and the soft hum of spiritual energy from the plants. Wei was, unsurprisingly, the loudest. ¡°I¡¯m telling you, breaking through to the second level of Qi Condensation is no big deal,¡± Wei said, his voice carrying across the garden. He stood with his arms crossed, grinning at Lian. ¡°Some of us just have a natural talent for it.¡± Tao stiffened at the words, his hands pausing over the Spirit Lotus Sapling he was transplanting. ¡°Natural talent?¡± Lian replied, her tone dry. ¡°If that were true, you wouldn¡¯t have taken three months longer than Jian to break through.¡± Wei¡¯s grin faltered. ¡°That¡¯s because I was focusing on perfecting my technique! Rushing a breakthrough is dangerous, you know.¡± Jian, who was pruning a row of Moonberry plants nearby, glanced up briefly. ¡°I broke through last year. You¡¯ve had plenty of time, Wei.¡± Tao¡¯s chest tightened. Both Wei and Jian were a full level ahead of him. He kept his head down, focusing on the soil in front of him, but the reminder of his stagnation burned in his mind. The Combat Hall By midday, Tao had finished his tasks in the Herb Pavilion and made his way to the Combat Hall. The hall was a sprawling courtyard, bordered by wooden training dummies, sparring rings, and weapon racks. Disciples of varying ranks filled the space, their movements precise as they practiced forms, exchanged blows, or meditated in preparation for matches. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, the clash of swords and bursts of spiritual techniques echoing through the courtyard. Tao hesitated at the edge, his hand tightening around the hilt of his sword. He rarely came here. Combat arts weren¡¯t his strength. Still, avoiding the hall completely would only draw more attention. Combat training was mandatory for inner disciples, no matter their skill level. Keeping his head down, Tao moved to a quiet corner where he hoped to practice his basic sword forms unnoticed. He had barely begun when a familiar voice cut through the noise. ¡°Still hiding in the shadows, Tao?¡±This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. The words sent a chill down his spine. Yun Fei strode toward him, his smirk as sharp as the blade at his side. At the fourth level of Qi Condensation, Yun Fei was among the strongest inner disciples. His confident gait and the polished sword at his hip marked him as someone who dominated the sparring rings¡ªand relished the attention that came with it. Tao forced himself to stand straight. ¡°I¡¯m not hiding.¡± ¡°Could¡¯ve fooled me,¡± Yun Fei said, stopping a few paces away. His voice was loud enough to draw the attention of nearby disciples, some of whom paused their practice to watch. ¡°I don¡¯t see you sparring with anyone. What¡¯s the matter? Afraid of losing?¡± Tao¡¯s grip tightened on his sword. ¡°I¡¯m here to practice, not to fight.¡± Yun Fei laughed, the sound sharp and mocking. ¡°Practice? With your skills, you¡¯d need more than practice¡ªyou¡¯d need a miracle.¡± He unsheathed his sword, the blade gleaming as it caught the sunlight. ¡°Why don¡¯t we spar? It¡¯ll be good experience for you. You might even learn something.¡± Several disciples gathered around, their murmurs filling the air. Some looked curious, others amused. Tao caught a glimpse of Wei and Jian standing among them. Wei¡¯s grin was broad, while Jian¡¯s expression remained unreadable. Tao hesitated. Sparring with Yun Fei was a guaranteed loss, but refusing in front of so many witnesses would be worse. ¡°Fine,¡± he said, drawing his sword. The Match The crowd parted as the two stepped into a sparring ring. Yun Fei moved with the ease of someone who had done this countless times, his sword steady in his hand. Tao, in contrast, felt the weight of his blade more acutely than ever. The match began with a flash of steel. Yun Fei¡¯s strikes were precise and relentless, forcing Tao to retreat with every step. The gap in their cultivation levels was painfully obvious¡ªYun Fei¡¯s movements were faster, his attacks sharper, his control of spiritual energy effortless. Tao barely managed to block a series of strikes before a sweeping blow sent his sword flying from his hands. The blade clattered to the ground, landing a few feet away. ¡°Pathetic,¡± Yun Fei said, sheathing his sword. His voice carried across the courtyard, silencing the murmurs of the crowd. ¡°You¡¯ll never get anywhere if you can¡¯t even defend yourself.¡± Tao retrieved his sword in silence, the sting of humiliation cutting deeper than any blade. Around him, some disciples whispered, while others turned back to their practice. Yun Fei didn¡¯t spare him another glance as he moved to challenge another disciple, his smirk still firmly in place. Wei approached, clapping Tao on the shoulder. ¡°Well, that was... something. Maybe stick to the gardens, huh?¡± Jian stood nearby, his gaze steady. ¡°Yun Fei¡¯s strong, but brute strength isn¡¯t everything. Keep training.¡± Tao nodded mutely, grateful for Jian¡¯s words even as frustration bubbled beneath his skin. Lingering Thoughts Back in his quarters that evening, Tao replayed the match in his mind. Every strike, every mistake, every moment of weakness gnawed at him. Yun Fei was stronger¡ªfar stronger¡ªbut Tao couldn¡¯t accept being humiliated like that forever. The jade mountain pulsed faintly in his dantian, a reminder of the power he had yet to unlock. If only he could understand it, harness it... He sat cross-legged on his cot, closing his eyes to meditate. But his mind kept straying back to the courtyard, the crowd, and the jade mountain¡¯s silent presence. Chapter 11: The Mission Board After a restless night spent replaying the events at the Combat Hall and his failed attempts at meditation, Tao decided it was time to act. His credits were running low, and the Moonlit Fern seedlings would take weeks, if not months, to mature. If he wanted to climb out of mediocrity and gain the resources he needed, he had to look beyond the Herb Pavilion. For the most part, Tao had been excused from missions, given his assignment in the herb garden. The work was monotonous but safe, earning him enough credits to scrape by. Yet today, Tao found himself before the sect mission board, the need for additional sect points pressing on his mind. The board was a constant source of activity, drawing disciples from all corners of the Verdant Dawn Sect. Tao stood at the edge of the crowd, his eyes scanning the jade plaques for something he could handle. The buzz of conversation and the occasional hum of spiritual energy filled the courtyard. ¡°Move it!¡± barked an older disciple as he shoved past Tao. The man plucked a jade plaque off the board and stalked away, muttering about rogue beasts. Tao stepped back, his heart pounding as he resumed his search. The board itself was an imposing structure, made of dark spiritual wood that absorbed the Qi in the air, ensuring the mission plaques remained pristine. Each plaque radiated faint spiritual energy, categorised by difficulty and reward. Tao¡¯s eyes roamed over the board, quickly skipping over the higher ranked missions marked with bright red talismans. Most missions were far beyond his abilities. Beast hunts, caravan escorts, artifact retrievals¡ªall required higher cultivation or specialized skills. But then he saw it: ¡°Herbal Delivery to Emerald Hollow City. Reward: 200 sect credits. Suitable for First Level Qi Condensation.¡± The task wasn¡¯t glamorous, but it was practical. Tao hesitated only a moment before grabbing the plaque and approaching the mission attendant. The attendant, a broad shouldered man with a perpetual scowl, glanced at Tao¡¯s token and stamped it without comment. He handed Tao a satchel filled with dried herbs. ¡°Deliver this to the Mystic Cloud Apothecary in Emerald Hollow City,¡± the attendant instructed. ¡°And don¡¯t get distracted.¡± Tao nodded, gripping the satchel tightly. Emerald Hollow City The path to Emerald Hollow City wound through rolling hills covered in lush greenery. The forest canopy above swayed gently in the breeze, casting shifting shadows across the ground. Birds called faintly in the distance, their melodies punctuating the crunch of gravel under Tao¡¯s boots. His satchel bounced lightly against his hip with each step, a constant reminder of the task at hand.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. By midday, the city came into view, nestled snugly in a valley. Emerald Hollow City¡¯s high walls, painted a deep green to blend with the surrounding forest, gave it a natural, almost unassuming appearance. Yet the activity outside its gates told a different story. Merchants with carts laden with goods jostled for position, while guards in polished armour directed the flow of traffic. Tall wooden gates reinforced with steel stood open, manned by sharp eyed guards who inspected everyone entering. The city was a hub of trade and cultivation, its economy divided between mortals and cultivators. Mortals traded with gold and silver, their currency clinking in the hands of merchants as deals were struck over grain, textiles, and simple tools. For cultivators, however, spirit stones reigned supreme. These small, translucent stones glimmered faintly with spiritual energy and served as both currency and a resource for cultivation. Tao reached into his pocket, his fingers brushing against the small pouch he carried. Inside were twelve low grade spirit stones, the result of years of saving. They were a meagre sum by cultivator standards, barely enough to purchase even the simplest artifact or pill, but to Tao, they represented hope. He had spent years resisting the temptation to use them, knowing they might one day be the key to his advancement. The line to enter the city moved slowly, giving Tao time to take in the sights. Spirit beasts of all sizes waited with their riders, their eyes glinting with intelligence. Above, cultivators flew through the air on gleaming swords or rode on floating chariots, their robes billowing like banners in the wind. Tao craned his neck, his eyes following a group of disciples descending from a massive spirit bird. The disciples wore the unmistakable black and red robes of the Ironwood Tower Sect, their polished armour catching the sunlight as they landed with practiced ease. Tao¡¯s heart clenched with envy. The Ironwood disciples exuded confidence and power, drawing the attention of mortals and cultivators alike. Tao himself wore the green and blue robes of his sect. One day, Tao thought, clenching his fists. One day, I¡¯ll soar like that. When Tao finally passed through the gates, the city enveloped him in its noise and energy. The streets were a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys and bustling markets, lined with vendors shouting over one another to hawk their wares. Stalls overflowed with goods: bundles of spirit herbs tied neatly with twine, glittering gemstones displayed in velvet lined trays, and steaming trays of roasted meats and spiced breads. The scents of incense, fresh produce, and roasted nuts mingled with the occasional sharp tang of spiritual energy, as cultivators demonstrated techniques to potential buyers. One merchant swung a glowing sword, the arc of light leaving scorch marks on the cobblestones, while another activated a talisman that sent sparks crackling through the air. Tao kept his head low, weaving through the chaos with practiced ease. He had grown up in this city, after all, the son of a modest herb shopkeeper. The familiar sights tugged at his heart¡ªa fruit vendor still shouting the same deals, the baker¡¯s stall where he used to beg for scraps. Nostalgia mingled with frustration. This place hadn¡¯t changed, but Tao had. His father¡¯s humble store had dealt only in mundane herbs, barely earning enough to support their family. It was a far cry from the wealth displayed in the cultivator markets, where even a single stalk of Spirit Lotus Grass could fetch more than his father made in a month. Tao forced the memories aside. He had a mission to complete, and dwelling on the past wouldn¡¯t help him now. Chapter 12: The Mission Fulfilled Tao stepped through the towering doors of the Mystic Cloud Apothecary; its carved wooden facade flanked by ornamental spirit vines that glowed faintly in the dim light. The air inside was cool and fragrant, tinged with the medicinal aroma of herbs. Shelves lined the walls, brimming with jars and bundles of dried plants. Behind the counter stood an elderly man in dark robes embroidered with silver clouds, his eyes sharp despite his advanced age. ¡°You¡¯re from the Verdant Dawn Sect?¡± the man asked, his gaze sweeping over Tao¡¯s robes. ¡°Yes, Senior,¡± Tao replied, bowing respectfully. ¡°I¡¯ve brought the herbs.¡± The man nodded, gesturing for Tao to place the satchel on the counter. As Tao did, the man¡¯s hands moved deftly, inspecting the contents with practiced ease. ¡°Good quality,¡± the man muttered. ¡°The sect still knows how to grow them properly.¡± He reached under the counter, producing a small pouch. ¡°Your payment.¡± Tao accepted it, his heart skipping as he felt the weight of spirit stones inside. He bowed again, his gratitude sincere. ¡°Thank you, Senior.¡± The man waved him off, already turning his attention to another customer. Tao stepped outside, the bustle of Emerald Hollow City enveloping him once more. The mission was complete, but his day was far from over. Tao made his way to the cultivator market, his mind buzzing with plans. The market sprawled across several streets, its stalls and shops exuding an air of mystique. Here, everything catered to cultivators: spiritual weapons, alchemical pills, talismans, and cultivation manuals. A merchant demonstrated a Fire Blossom Talisman, the flames crackling vividly before dissipating into sparks. Nearby, a woman hawked bottles of Golden Essence Elixir, claiming it could enhance Qi circulation tenfold. Tao¡¯s gaze darted from stall to stall, his excitement tempered by the realization that his spirit stones wouldn¡¯t go far. Still, he approached a shop marked with a glowing jade emblem. Inside, the shelves gleamed with jade slips and scrolls, their surfaces etched with intricate characters. Tao hesitated, overwhelmed by the sheer variety. A young attendant in sleek robes approached. ¡°Looking for anything specific, Disciple?¡±Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. ¡°I need techniques,¡± Tao said, his voice steady. ¡°Something for growing spiritual herbs. And a combat technique.¡± The attendant nodded, leading him to a section marked Qi Condensation Stage. ¡°These are suitable for your level,¡± he said, gesturing to the shelves. Tao picked up a jade slip titled Spirit Vein Cultivation: Advanced Methods and nearly dropped it when he saw the price: 50 mid-grade spirit stones. His heart sank. Even the cheapest technique cost more than his entire savings. He placed the slip back, forcing a polite smile. ¡°I¡¯ll look around.¡± The attendant nodded but didn¡¯t hide his disdain as he moved away. Tao left the shop quickly, the sting of embarrassment burning his cheeks. Emerald Hollow City wasn¡¯t all grandeur and opulence. In the quieter mortal quarter, Tao found himself standing before a small, weathered bookshop. Its sign, faded but legible, read Old Master Hu¡¯s Books and Scrolls. The door creaked as he entered, and the scent of aged paper greeted him. Tao¡¯s chest tightened with nostalgia; this place hadn¡¯t changed. Shelves crammed with scrolls, manuals, and even mundane novels stretched from floor to ceiling. ¡°Back so soon, Tao?¡± A wizened voice called from the counter. Old Master Hu shuffled out from behind a stack of books, his face breaking into a grin. ¡°Haven¡¯t seen you since you left for the sect.¡± Tao smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯ve been busy, Master Hu.¡± ¡°Busy struggling, by the looks of it,¡± Hu teased, his eyes twinkling. ¡°What brings you here?¡± ¡°I need techniques,¡± Tao said. ¡°Something affordable.¡± Hu nodded knowingly. ¡°Mortal grade, then. Take a look around.¡± Tao wandered the aisles, his fingers brushing against the scrolls. Many were simple, suited for mortals or novice cultivators, but two caught his attention:
  1. Nurturing Rain TechniqueA basic spell designed to summon Qi-infused rain, accelerating the growth of mortal-grade plants. The description mentioned its limited effect on higher-grade herbs, but Tao¡¯s mind raced with possibilities.
  2. Raging Waves Sword StyleA combat technique that harnessed the wielder¡¯s anger, channelling it into fierce, unpredictable strikes. However, the technique came with a warning: prolonged use could destabilize the wielder¡¯s emotions, leading to reckless behaviour.
Tao frowned. ¡°Why is this one so cheap?¡± Hu chuckled, leaning on his cane. ¡°The Raging Waves Sword Style is... divisive. Anger is a double-edged sword. It amplifies power but clouds judgment. Most cultivators lack the discipline to control it. They end up exhausting themselves¡ªor worse, losing focus at a critical moment.¡± Tao considered this. The risks were real, but the style¡¯s potential intrigued him. If he could master it, the power boost might make up for his lack of cultivation strength. He placed both scrolls on the counter. ¡°How much?¡± ¡°For you, Tao? Ten spirit stones for the pair.¡± Tao¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°That¡¯s generous.¡± Hu waved him off. ¡°I¡¯m just glad to see you still have ambition. Don¡¯t waste these.¡± Back in his modest room, Tao unrolled the scrolls, the faint glow of the Nurturing Rain Technique illuminating his face. He read carefully, already thinking of ways to adapt the technique for higher grade plants. The Raging Waves Sword Style lay beside him, its potential both thrilling and daunting. Tao exhaled, determination settling over him. For the first time in weeks, Tao felt a spark of hope. He wasn¡¯t just surviving¡ªhe was preparing to rise. Chapter 13: Refining the Nurturing Rain Tao sat cross legged on the wooden floor of his room, the Nurturing Rain Technique scroll spread out before him. He traced a finger along the diagrams, his brow furrowed in concentration. The technique was simple, almost frustratingly so. Designed for mortal grade plants, it channelled a cultivator¡¯s Qi into a gentle rain that nourished the soil and accelerated growth. Tao could see its limitations immediately. Profound grade plants required far more energy and precision to thrive, their roots thirsting for Qi far richer than the technique could provide. ¡°This won¡¯t be enough,¡± Tao muttered, frustration tightening his chest. Tao closed the scroll with a sigh and stood, his resolve hardening. ¡°I¡¯ll have to refine it.¡± The Verdant Dawn Sect Library, also known as The Jade Slip Pavilion, was a modest structure compared to the grand halls of larger sects, but it was still the heart of knowledge for disciples like Tao. Its wooden shelves were packed with jade slips and scrolls, categorized by discipline: combat techniques, alchemy, spiritual formations, and cultivation methods. Tao approached the counter where Elder Zhou, the library¡¯s overseer, sat hunched over a scroll. The elder¡¯s sharp eyes flicked up as Tao bowed respectfully. ¡°I need access to nurturing techniques,¡± Tao said. Zhou snorted. ¡°Do you think the sect hands out its secrets like roasted chestnuts? Most of the advanced nurturing techniques are restricted. Only low-grade methods are available to inner disciples.¡± ¡°I only need the basics,¡± Tao replied quickly. ¡°Something to cross reference with.¡± Zhou waved a hand toward a corner of the library. ¡°Beginner Section. Don¡¯t waste my time with questions you could answer yourself.¡± Tao suppressed a sigh and bowed again. ¡°Thank you, Elder.¡± The Beginner Section was dusty and dimly lit, its scrolls and jade slips clearly neglected by most disciples. Tao scanned the shelves, his fingers brushing against the worn edges of scrolls until he found a small cluster labelled Nurturing Techniques. He pulled out three:
  1. Qi Dew Technique ¨C A basic method to condense Qi into dew droplets for mortal grade plants.
  2. Root Binding Method ¨C A technique to stabilize a plant¡¯s spiritual roots during growth.
  3. Cycle of Nourishment ¨C A low grade method that combined Qi with water to create a nutrient rich solution.
Tao carried the scrolls to a nearby table, spreading them out alongside his Nurturing Rain Technique. He studied each one meticulously, comparing diagrams and annotations, his mind racing with possibilities. The Cycle of Nourishment caught his attention. Its process of infusing Qi into water aligned closely with the principles of the Nurturing Rain Technique, but it required a more controlled flow of energy. Tao¡¯s thoughts turned to the jade mountain within his dantian. Its Qi was rich and dense but harnessing it for such delicate work would be a challenge.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. Tao headed to the Herb Pavilion, where Elder Hua oversaw the distribution of seeds and materials. The air was thick with the scent of fresh soil and drying herbs, and the shelves were lined with small jars containing neatly labelled seeds. Elder Hua glanced up as Tao approached. ¡°What are you after?¡± ¡°I need seeds to practice nurturing techniques,¡± Tao said, keeping his tone neutral. Hua raised an eyebrow. ¡°Practice? You¡¯re not planning to waste resources, are you?¡± Tao shook his head. ¡°Just low-grade seeds. Something I can afford.¡± Hua gestured to a section of mortal grade seeds. ¡°Take your pick. They won¡¯t cost you much.¡± Tao scanned the jars, selecting three types:
  1. Greenleaf Grass ¨C A hardy plant often used for basic alchemical preparations.
  2. Duskbell Flowers ¨C Known for their rapid growth and vibrant blooms.
  3. Stonevine Shoots ¨C Resilient but slow growing, ideal for testing Qi flow over time.
The total cost was 15 sect points. He winced at the expense but handed over his token. ¡°Don¡¯t waste them,¡± Hua warned as she handed him the seeds. ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Tao promised. Tao spent the next two days experimenting in the herb gardens, using mortal grade seeds and the faint glow of lanterns to guide his work after sunset. His first attempts were disastrous. The modified technique required him to split his Qi into two streams¡ªone to sustain the rain and another to enrich it with the energy Profound grade plants demanded. But his control wavered. The rain came out too weak, its droplets evaporating before they reached the soil. On the third attempt, Tao overcompensated, channelling too much Qi at once. The rain turned into a torrential downpour, drowning the fragile seedlings and washing away the nutrient rich soil. ¡°Damn it!¡± Tao cursed, his chest heaving as he slumped to the ground. His Qi reserves were nearly depleted, his body trembling with exhaustion. Jian, who had been passing by, stopped and watched silently for a moment before approaching. ¡°You¡¯re trying to refine a technique?¡± Tao nodded, too frustrated to speak. Jian crouched beside him, his expression calm. ¡°You¡¯re pushing too hard. Techniques like this require patience. You¡¯re trying to force it.¡± Tao exhaled slowly, his anger cooling. ¡°You¡¯re right. But I don¡¯t have time to waste. If I can¡¯t make this work, I¡¯ll never be able to grow higher grade plants.¡± Jian stood, his gaze steady. ¡°Then focus on control. Start small and build up. And stop exhausting yourself¡ªyou won¡¯t succeed if you burn out.¡± On the fifth day, Tao knelt before a single pot containing a sprouting Stonevine Shoot. He closed his eyes, centring his thoughts. The jade mountain in his dantian thrummed faintly, its energy a steady presence. Tao visualized the rain, its droplets infused with a balanced stream of Qi. He directed his energy carefully, splitting it into two flows¡ªone to sustain the rain and another to enrich it. The first droplet fell, shimmering faintly as it soaked into the soil. Then another, and another, until a gentle rain bathed the Stonevine Shoot. The plant¡¯s leaves quivered, their edges glowing faintly as they absorbed the energy. Tao held the technique for several minutes, his breath steady despite the strain. When he finally released the flow, he slumped back, his chest heaving. The Stonevine Shoot had grown visibly, its tendrils stronger and its leaves brighter. Tao stared at it, a grin spreading across his face. ¡°It worked,¡± he whispered. As Tao sat beside his plot, the glow of the plants casting soft light over his face, he felt a deep sense of accomplishment. It had been exhausting, but the technique was finally refined. Tao decided to name the newly combined technique the Nurturing Cycle Technique. Chapter 14: Binding the Cycle Tao sat cross legged on the floor of his quarters, his eyes fixed on the small clay pots lined neatly on his desk. The seedlings he¡¯d been practicing on were showing signs of growth¡ªvivid green leaves unfurling, their stems stronger than before. But these were mortal grade plants, far easier to nurture. His gaze shifted to the Moonlit Fern, potted carefully and hidden under the faint glow of the Veil of Stillness Array. Its silvery leaves glimmered faintly in the dim light, but its growth had been stagnant since he brought it back. ¡°If the technique doesn¡¯t work on this, it¡¯s worthless,¡± Tao muttered, his jaw tightening. The moon hung high in the sky as Tao carried the Moonlit Fern outside, careful to keep it shielded by the array. He placed the pot on the soft ground under the cover of trees, the faint hum of the array blending with the chirping of night insects. Tao knelt before the plant, closing his eyes as he began to channel his Qi. Energy flowed through him, as he summoned the Nurturing Cycle Technique. The rain began as a light drizzle, shimmering faintly with spiritual energy. Tao split his Qi into two streams¡ªone to sustain the rain and another to enrich it, as he had practiced. The droplets fell steadily, soaking into the soil around the Moonlit Fern. For a moment, nothing happened. Then, the fern¡¯s leaves trembled slightly, their edges glowing faintly as they absorbed the Qi. Tao¡¯s heart leapt, but the reaction was fleeting. The glow dimmed almost as quickly as it had appeared, and the plant returned to its dormant state. Tao frowned, his chest tightening with frustration. The technique had worked¡ªbut only barely. It wasn¡¯t enough to truly nourish the fern. Back in his quarters, Tao spread out the scrolls he had borrowed from the library: the Qi Dew Technique, the Cycle of Nourishment, and the Root Binding Method. He studied them intently, his mind racing. He cross referenced the diagrams with his annotations for the Nurturing Cycle Technique. ¡°The problem isn¡¯t just the rain,¡± Tao muttered. ¡°The roots aren¡¯t absorbing enough Qi. If I combine the rain with the Root Binding Method...¡±Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. The Root Binding Method was a stabilizing technique designed to enhance a plant¡¯s ability to draw Qi from the soil. It required careful synchronization with the flow of energy, making it far more complex than the other techniques Tao had practiced. He ran his fingers over the diagrams, tracing the intricate patterns of Qi circulation. The jade mountain pulsed faintly, its energy a steady reassurance. ¡°This has to work,¡± Tao said, determination hardening his voice. Tao spent the next two days practicing the combined method. The process was painstaking, each failure chipping away at his Qi reserves and his patience. The challenge lay in synchronizing the two techniques. The Root Binding Method required a steady flow of Qi into the soil, while the Nurturing Cycle Technique demanded precise control over the rain¡¯s energy infusion. Balancing the two without disrupting either was like trying to walk a tightrope in a storm. On the third day, Tao felt a breakthrough. He knelt before a pot containing a Stonevine Shoot, his breathing slow and deliberate. As he summoned the rain, he directed a portion of his Qi into the soil, weaving it into the root system with the precision outlined in the Root Binding Method. The rain shimmered as it fell, and the Stonevine¡¯s leaves glowed faintly. This time, the glow lingered, a sign that the roots were absorbing the Qi more effectively. Tao exhaled sharply, his chest heaving with relief. It wasn¡¯t perfect, but it was progress. That evening, Tao carried the Moonlit Fern outside again, placing it in the same secluded spot. He knelt before it, his heart pounding as he prepared to test the refined technique. The rain began as before, soft and shimmering. But this time, Tao directed a portion of his Qi into the soil, weaving it into the fern¡¯s roots with careful precision. The process was gruelling, his mind and body straining to maintain the delicate balance. The fern¡¯s leaves trembled, their silvery edges glowing faintly. The glow deepened, spreading across the plant like a soft pulse of light. Tao held the technique as long as he could, his Qi reserves depleting rapidly. When he finally released the flow, he slumped back, his chest heaving. The Moonlit Fern stood before him, its leaves brighter and its stems stronger. The change was subtle but undeniable. ¡°It¡¯s working,¡± Tao whispered, a grin spreading across his face. Back in his quarters, Tao placed the Moonlit Fern carefully beside the other pots. The combined technique was far from perfect, but it had proven its potential. With more practice, it could become a powerful tool¡ªnot just for cultivating plants, but for proving his worth within the sect. Tao exhaled deeply; his determination renewed. ¡°This is only the beginning,¡± he murmured. ¡°I¡¯ll refine it further. And then, no one will overlook me again.¡± Tao decided to name the newly combined technique the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique. Chapter 15: The Edge of Control Tao sat cross legged on the wooden floor of his quarters, the scroll for the Raging Waves Sword Style unfurled before him. Its faint glow reflected the flickering lantern light, casting restless shadows on the walls. He had studied it for hours, dissecting every diagram and annotation, but the technique remained a mystery. The instructions were clear: channel your Qi into your strikes, feeding it with emotion, particularly anger. The power of the technique lay in its ability to amplify each blow with raw force. Yet this same strength was its weakness¡ªanger was unpredictable, a fire that could consume the wielder if not tempered. ¡°This isn¡¯t like the Verdant Sword Technique,¡± Tao muttered, frustration tightening his brow. The Verdant Sword Technique was a foundational style taught to disciples upon breaking into the Qi Condensation stage. The Verdant Sword Technique emphasized precision and control, its strikes clean and deliberate. It was the standard for Qi Condensation disciples, a reliable method to build their foundations. But it lacked the flexibility to manage the wild surges of Qi required by the Raging Waves Sword Style. Raging Waves, by contrast, thrived on chaos. It demanded the wielder embrace their anger, feeding it into their strikes. But the very nature of the technique left the cultivator vulnerable¡ªboth physically and mentally. ¡°They¡¯re completely different,¡± Tao mumbled, his brow furrowed. ¡°I can¡¯t stabilize Raging Waves with the Verdant Sword Technique alone.¡± Later that evening, Tao made his way to the Combat Hall with Jian. The hall was quiet, its vast space dimly lit by glowing spirit lamps. Jian stood across from Tao, his sword resting casually in one hand. Tao stood with his sword drawn, its edge gleaming faintly under the dim light of glowing spirit lamps. Jian stood across from him, his stance relaxed but his eyes sharp. ¡°This sword technique of yours,¡± Jian said, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. ¡°You¡¯re going to try it on me?¡± Tao nodded, gripping his blade tightly. ¡°I need to practice it against someone. You¡¯re the only one I trust not to skewer me if I mess up.¡± Jian¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°I¡¯ll try to hold back.¡± The hall was quiet except for the sound of their breathing. Other disciples had finished their sparring for the day, leaving the space empty save for the two of them. Tao steadied himself, recalling the scroll¡¯s instructions. The Raging Waves Sword Style required him to channel his Qi into each strike, feeding it with emotion. But the challenge was clear¡ª anger fuelled the technique, yet losing control meant the technique would consume him instead. He lunged forward, his blade slashing toward Jian in a sweeping arc. The movement was raw but powerful, and the Qi he infused into the strike hummed audibly. Jian deflected it with ease, his sword barely shifting under the force. ¡°Not bad,¡± Jian said, his tone casual. ¡°But you¡¯re holding back.¡± Tao gritted his teeth, frustration flaring. He lunged again, his strikes faster and more aggressive. The Raging Waves Sword Style began to take shape, each swing heavier than the last. His Qi surged, and with it, a flicker of heat in his chest¡ªanger, raw and unfiltered.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Jian¡¯s calm expression shifted slightly as he parried Tao¡¯s attacks. ¡°You¡¯re pushing too hard. Control it, or it¡¯ll control you.¡± Tao¡¯s vision blurred at the edges as the anger deepened. His strikes became erratic, the power in them wild but unfocused. Jian stepped back, dodging easily now. ¡°Tao!¡± Jian¡¯s voice cut through the haze. ¡°Breathe. Focus!¡± Tao stumbled, his chest heaving. He forced himself to stop, the blade trembling in his grip. The Qi in his dantian pulsed wildly, and he struggled to reign it in. Slowly, the heat subsided, leaving him drained but aware. ¡°You see now?¡± Jian said, lowering his sword. ¡°This technique doesn¡¯t just demand skill. It demands control. If you lose yourself to it, you¡¯re no better than a wild beast. Power without control is a disaster waiting to happen.¡± Tao nodded, his frustration giving way to a grudging acceptance. ¡°I need to refine it. Balance it.¡± ¡°Keep working on controlling the technique. If you can¡¯t it might be better not to use it.¡± Tao nodded, his face flushed with exertion and embarrassment. ¡°I get it now. Thanks for not¡ª¡± ¡°¡ªknocking you flat?¡± Jian finished, smirking. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You¡¯re getting there.¡± Tao smiled. ¡°I owe you one.¡± The next day Tao decided to pay the library a visit. The Verdant Dawn Sect Library was quiet, its rows of shelves casting long shadows in the flickering lamplight. Tao walked among them, his mind still replaying the sparring session. He had learned an important lesson, but he couldn¡¯t give up now. Elder Zhou barely glanced at him as Tao passed the counter. ¡°Looking for sword techniques now, are we?¡± the elder said, his tone laced with amusement. ¡°Yes, Elder,¡± Tao replied, bowing slightly. ¡°Something to help refine the Raging Waves Sword Style.¡± Zhou snorted. ¡°The best techniques are reserved for core disciples. You¡¯ll have to settle for what¡¯s in the Beginner Section.¡± Tao bit back a sigh and made his way to the section Zhou had indicated. The shelves were packed with jade slips and scrolls, their titles etched in faded characters. Most were mortal grade or early Qi Condensation grade techniques, but Tao was determined to find something useful. He spent hours sifting through the options, narrowing his choices to three techniques that seemed compatible with the Raging Waves Sword Style:
  1. Tranquil Pool Technique
  2. Steel Tempest Method
  3. Rippling Tide Sword Art
Each technique had its merits, but the Tranquil Pool Technique resonated with him the most. Its focus on calmness and control seemed like the perfect counterbalance to the chaotic nature of the Raging Waves Sword Style. He placed the other two scrolls back on the shelf and carried the Tranquil Pool Technique to the counter. Elder Zhou raised an eyebrow but said nothing. Back in his quarters, Tao unrolled the Tranquil Pool scroll, its diagrams glowing faintly in the lantern light. The movements were fluid and deliberate, designed to centre the cultivator¡¯s mind and harmonize their Qi flow. He began practicing the basic stances, focusing on the steady rhythm of his breath. The jade mountain in his dantian pulsed faintly as he channelled his Qi, guiding it into a smooth, controlled flow. Hours passed as Tao repeated the movements, his mind gradually calming. When he finally picked up his sword and attempted the Raging Waves technique, he noticed an immediate difference. His strikes were still powerful, but the wildness was gone. The Tranquil Pool Technique acted like an anchor, keeping his Qi steady even as he channelled his anger into each swing. Tao lowered his blade, a faint smile tugging at his lips. ¡°This... this could work.¡± Chapter 16: Seeds of Discord Tao knelt in a secluded grove just outside the sect¡¯s boundaries, the faint hum of the Veil of Stillness Array masking his Qi signature. Moonlight filtered through the trees, casting silvery light over the small clearing. Before him stood three pots containing Moonlit Ferns, their leaves glowing faintly under the nourishing rain he summoned. The droplets shimmered as they fell, soaking into the enriched soil. He had recently re-potted them into bigger pots leaving them with more room to grow. The Nurturing Cycle Root Technique had grown more refined with each use. Tao could feel his Qi flowing in perfect harmony, splitting into streams that nourished the roots and energized the rain. The ferns responded more vividly with every session, their silvery leaves unfurling like delicate fans. Tao smiled faintly, pride swelling in his chest. ¡°You¡¯re thriving,¡± he murmured, his voice barely audible over the soft patter of rain. Once the session ended, he carried them back to his quarters, the journey uneventful under the cover of night. The next morning, Tao stood under the dappled sunlight of the herb gardens, his hands outstretched as a soft drizzle of qi infused rain fell from above. The gentle droplets shimmered faintly, bathing the rows of Cloud Petal Flowers he had recently planted. Each flower pulsed faintly with vitality, their soft, feathery petals unfurling as they absorbed the spiritual energy. The technique, now known as the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique, had become more refined with each use. Tao could feel his Qi flowing steadily, no longer the wild and unpredictable torrent it had once been. A faint smile tugged at his lips as he watched the Cloud Petal Flowers react. They were growing stronger, their roots digging deeper into the enriched soil he had prepared. This was proof that his efforts were paying off. ¡°Not bad,¡± Tao murmured, his chest swelling with quiet pride. But not everyone shared Tao¡¯s satisfaction. In the far corner of the Herb Garden, Wei crouched beside a cluster of plants that Tao had tended earlier in the week. A smirk played across his lips as he surveyed the scene. The plants were wilting, their roots exposed as if they had been carelessly handled. ¡°This will do nicely,¡± Wei muttered, straightening and brushing dirt from his hands. He approached Elder Hua, his tone dripping with mock concern. ¡°Elder, I¡¯ve noticed something troubling about Tao¡¯s section of the garden.¡± Hua looked up from her inspection of a Spirit Lotus Sapling, her sharp eyes narrowing. ¡°What is it, Wei?¡± Wei gestured toward the damaged plants. ¡°I think Tao¡¯s been neglecting his duties. Look at these. The roots are practically dead, and the soil is completely dry. He¡¯s been so focused on his little experiments that he¡¯s forgotten about the rest of the garden.¡±The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Hua¡¯s expression darkened as she strode toward the plants. She knelt to examine them, her fingers brushing against the exposed roots. ¡°This is unacceptable,¡± she said, her voice clipped. ¡°I thought you should know,¡± Wei said, feigning humility. Hua rose to her full height, her gaze cutting toward Tao, who was still absorbed in his work. ¡°Tao!¡± Tao flinched at the sharp call, the drizzle of rain ceasing abruptly as his concentration broke. He turned to see Hua marching toward him, her expression stormy. ¡°Yes, Elder?¡± Tao said, bowing respectfully. Hua wasted no time. ¡°Explain this,¡± she demanded, gesturing toward the damaged plants. Tao¡¯s eyes widened as he took in the scene. ¡°Elder, I¡ª¡± ¡°These plants were under your care,¡± Hua interrupted. ¡°Their state is unacceptable. Have you been neglecting your duties?¡± Tao¡¯s mind raced. He hadn¡¯t touched those plants in days, but he knew arguing would only make things worse. ¡°I¡¯ve been working on refining a technique to help me nurture the spirit plants,¡± he said carefully. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize¡ª¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t realize?¡± Hua¡¯s voice was sharp. ¡°As an inner disciple, it¡¯s your responsibility to ensure every plant in your section thrives. If you can¡¯t manage that, perhaps you¡¯re not ready for this role.¡± Tao clenched his fists, anger bubbling beneath the surface. He glanced at Wei, who stood nearby with a smug expression. The pieces clicked into place. ¡°Elder, I believe this may have been sabotage,¡± Tao said, keeping his voice steady. Hua raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s a serious accusation.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not accusing anyone,¡± Tao replied quickly. ¡°But I haven¡¯t touched those plants recently. Someone else may have interfered.¡± ¡°Regardless of who¡¯s to blame, this is unacceptable,¡± Hua snapped. ¡°The Herb Pavilion¡¯s reputation depends on its quality. If you can¡¯t maintain it, I¡¯ll have to reconsider your place here.¡± The words hit Tao like a blow. He opened his mouth to argue, but Hua raised a hand to stop him. ¡°Fix this,¡± she said, her tone final. ¡°And Tao¡ªbe careful. I don¡¯t have time for excuses.¡± Tao bowed stiffly, his mind racing as she left the garden. ¡°Yes, Elder,¡± Tao said, bowing deeply. As Hua walked away, Tao turned to find Jian watching from a distance. The quiet disciple approached, his expression unreadable. ¡°You think Wei did it?¡± Jian asked. Tao nodded. ¡°It¡¯s obvious. He¡¯s been trying to undermine me for weeks.¡± Jian¡¯s gaze hardened. ¡°Be careful. Wei¡¯s not smart, but he¡¯s persistent. If you¡¯re not careful, he¡¯ll cause real trouble.¡± Tao exhaled; his frustration evident. ¡°I can¡¯t let him get to me. I¡¯ll fix this and prove I belong here.¡± Jian nodded, his tone softening. ¡°You¡¯re not alone, Tao. Remember that.¡± That evening, Tao returned to his quarters, his thoughts still simmering with frustration. He unrolled the scroll for the Raging Waves Sword Style, determined to channel his emotions into something productive. He practiced the technique in the dimly lit courtyard, his strikes heavy and deliberate. The anger he felt surged through him, fuelling the raw power of each swing. But as the strikes grew wilder, he forced himself to stop, remembering Jian¡¯s words. Control it, or it¡¯ll control you. Tao closed his eyes, steadying his breath. He recalled the fluid movements of the Tranquil Pool Technique, which he had begun integrating into his practice. Slowly, he resumed his strikes, this time focusing on balance and precision. The blade cut through the air, its edge gleaming faintly under the moonlight. Tao¡¯s Qi flowed steadily; the chaos of Raging Waves tempered by the calm of Tranquil Pool. By the time he sheathed his sword, his muscles ached, but his mind felt clearer. ¡°I¡¯ll master this technique¡ªand everything else.¡± Tao murmured. Chapter 17: Roots of Redemption Tao knelt in the garden, his palms pressed against the soil, steady and calm. His mind was a whirl of thoughts, but his hands never wavered as they prepared to channel his Qi. The decay in the plants was extensive¡ªyellowed leaves, shrivelled stems, and roots barely clinging to life. The air around him felt heavy with the weight of failure. Elder Hua¡¯s words echoed relentlessly in his mind: Prove yourself, or your place here will be reconsidered. A deep breath. Tao inhaled, pulling the breath deep into his abdomen, his body grounding itself. He finally managed to let go of the lingering anger that clouded his mind. The Nurturing Cycle Root Technique had come a long way since its creation. Tao could now guide his Qi with precision, splitting it into streams that nourished both the roots and the rain. The air around him grew still as a fine drizzle of Qi infused rain began to fall. The droplets shimmered faintly, soaking into the soil and spreading life giving energy. At the same time, Tao directed a portion of his Qi into the roots, weaving it carefully to stabilize the plants¡¯ foundations. Slowly, the brittle leaves softened, their green hue returning. The stems straightened, and the plants stood upright once more. The potency of the technique was evident on mortal grade plants. If the plants hadn¡¯t been extensively damaged, they would be filled with vitality at this point. Tao wiped the sweat from his brow, a faint smile tugging at his lips. ¡°That¡¯s a start.¡± But his peace was short lived. A familiar voice, cool and unyielding, broke through the quiet. ¡°You¡¯ve been busy,¡± Lian said, stepping into the garden with her usual confident stride. Tao turned, his expression softening. ¡°Trying to fix the damage Wei caused.¡± Lian raised an eyebrow. ¡°You¡¯re handling it well. Hua will notice, eventually. But if you want to make a real impression, you need more than restored plants.¡± Tao frowned, a deep crease forming between his brows. ¡°I¡¯ve already thought of that.¡± Lian leaned against a nearby post, her eyes thoughtful. ¡°You have? Well, I look forward to seeing the results then¡± Later that day, Tao stood in the Herb Pavilion, his heart pounding in his chest like the beating of a war drum. In his hands, he held a carefully crafted scroll¡ªits parchment smooth and the ink fresh. The scroll detailed the mortal grade technique he had developed, the Nurturing Cycle Technique. He had considered submitting the more potent version¡ªthe Nurturing Cycle Root Technique, which could nurture even Profound plants¡ªbut in the end, he decided against it. If he presented the advanced technique, he would stand out, but it would also draw attention he wasn¡¯t ready for. The mortal grade version would mask his true capabilities, blending in with the others while subtly displaying his ingenuity. No one would be able to tell the difference at first glance.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! ¡°Elder Hua,¡± Tao began, bowing deeply. ¡°I¡¯ve been working on a technique to improve plant restoration and growth. I believe it could be of use to the sect.¡± Hua¡¯s sharp eyes flicked to the scroll, her expression unreadable. ¡°You¡¯ve already caused enough trouble in the garden, Tao. What makes you think this will change anything?¡± Tao swallowed his nerves and held out the scroll. ¡°The technique has already restored some of the damaged plants. It uses Qi to generate a rain infused with spiritual energy that nourishes plants while simultaneously enriching the soil to promote healthier growth and faster recovery. If you¡¯d allow me to demonstrate...¡± Hua studied him for a moment before snatching the scroll from his hands. ¡°We¡¯ll see if this is worth my time,¡± she said curtly. ¡°You¡¯re not off the hook yet.¡± Tao followed her out of the pavilion, his footsteps echoing in the silence. Hua led him to a corner of the garden to a row of Blood Red Orchids. ¡°These are useful for alchemy and healing medicine. I suggest you try your technique on these mortal grade plants. While they may seem humble, if you cause them to wither, Tao¡­¡± A bead of sweat formed on Tao¡¯s forehead as the weight of her words settled in. He slowly started to channel his Qi, summoning the familiar shimmer of the Nurturing Cycle Technique. The rain fell softly, the droplets like tiny threads of life, sinking into the earth. His Qi seeped into the soil, strengthening it, enriching it with every breath he took. The plants slowly started to respond. Their flowers deepened in colour, turning an even richer shade of crimson, their vitality blooming. Hua knelt by the plants, inspecting them with a critical eye. After a long silence, she stood, her expression unreadable. ¡°The technique is... inventive,¡± she admitted grudgingly. ¡°It shows potential for wider use in the Herb Pavilion. I¡¯ll award you sect points for its submission, but don¡¯t think this absolves you of your earlier mistakes.¡± She paused, her eyes narrowing. ¡°This is not a unique technique, Tao. There are similar techniques in the sect¡¯s library. But you¡¯ve managed to combine two different methods, enhancing the effect of both and making it applicable to a wider range of plants.¡± Tao bowed deeply, relief flooding through him. ¡°Thank you, Elder Hua. I¡¯ll continue to improve.¡± Hua¡¯s sharp gaze softened slightly. ¡°See that you do.¡± That night, Tao returned to his quarters, the weight of the day¡¯s events still pressing on him. The Moonlit Ferns had grown visibly stronger, their silvery leaves glowing faintly even without direct Qi. Tao knelt beside them, his hands hovering over the pots as he activated the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique. The rain fell gently, and the ferns seemed to pulse with energy, their roots anchoring deeper into the enriched soil. ¡°They¡¯re almost ready,¡± Tao murmured, his voice tinged with pride. ¡°One more session, and they¡¯ll be strong enough to move.¡± The thought of planting them in the Spirit Mountain filled him with anticipation. Chapter 18: Entering the Jade Mountain Pocket World
Tao was crouched among the rows of Spirit Lotus Saplings when he heard the deliberate scrape of boots against the stone path behind him. The sound carried an air of smugness, and Tao didn¡¯t need to turn to know who it was.
¡°Tao,¡± Wei called, his tone dripping with false camaraderie. ¡°You¡¯ve been keeping secrets, haven¡¯t you?¡±
Tao stood, brushing dirt from his hands. ¡°What do you want, Wei?¡±
Wei stepped closer, his grin widening. ¡°Elder Hua seemed impressed with that technique you submitted. Word gets around, you know. You¡¯ve got something useful, and I want it.¡±
Tao¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°The technique belongs to the sect now. If you want it, you can ask Elder Hua.¡±
Wei laughed, the sound sharp and grating. ¡°Oh, I will. But why wait for her approval when I can just get it from you? Save us both the trouble.¡±
Tao¡¯s grip on his tools tightened, but he kept his voice calm. ¡°I¡¯m not giving you anything.¡±
Wei¡¯s grin didn¡¯t falter. ¡°You will. One way or another. I can make life very uncomfortable for you, Tao. Think about that.¡±
As Wei walked away, his laughter echoing behind him, Tao¡¯s jaw clenched. He knew Wei¡¯s type¡ªpersistent, petty, and willing to exploit any weakness. The Moonlit Ferns in his quarters weren¡¯t safe, even with the Veil of Stillness Array. Wei¡¯s meddling could undo everything.
That night, Tao made a decision. The Jade Mountain was his greatest secret and his greatest hope. If he could bring it out from his dantian, he was sure it would help him overcome many of his struggles. Tao packed the Moonlit Ferns into secure pots and slipped out of the sect grounds, heading for the forest under the cover of darkness.
The secluded clearing he chose was shielded by tall, ancient trees, their canopies forming a dense, protective barrier against prying eyes. Tao sat cross-legged in the centre, the pots of Moonlit Ferns placed carefully beside him. He had ventured as far into the forest as he dared, certain that the sect elders couldn¡¯t detect the Jade Mountain¡¯s Qi signature. At the ninth stage of Qi Condensation, their senses were sharp, but they lacked the divine sense of higher realms, leaving them unable to perceive subtle fluctuations from this distance. The Patriarch, Yu Tian, was another matter entirely. As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, his perception was said to span incredible distances, a thought that made Tao¡¯s chest tighten. Shaking off his unease, he closed his eyes and focused inward, searching for the faint, steady pulse of the Jade Mountain within his dantian.
It was there, a steady presence, but coaxing it out proved far more difficult than he had imagined. Tao tried guiding his Qi into the mountain, shaping it into threads to pull the object free, but it resisted, as immovable as the earth itself. He shifted tactics, infusing his Qi with intent, picturing the mountain materializing before him. Still, it refused to respond.
Hours passed, and Tao¡¯s frustration mounted. Sweat dripped down his brow as he poured every ounce of his concentration into the task. Just as exhaustion threatened to overwhelm him, a flicker of energy surged through his dantian. The Jade Mountain trembled, and then, with a blinding flash, it appeared before him.
The miniature mountain hovered in the air, its jade surface glowing softly. Tao stared in awe, his breath caught in his throat. The energy it radiated was immense, yet it felt oddly harmonious, as though it belonged there with him.
Steeling himself, Tao reached out and infused the mountain with his Qi once more, this time guiding it to expand. The world shifted around him, the forest dissolving into mist. When the haze cleared, Tao found himself standing within the Jade Mountain¡¯s inner world.
The landscape was breathtaking. The Spirit Mountain loomed before him just as it had done once before, its peak shrouded in swirling clouds. The air buzzed with vitality, each breath filling Tao with a sense of renewal.
Tao walked forward following the same path that he had the first time he had entered this space. He carried the Moonlit Ferns with him to a patch of fertile soil near the boundary of swirling mist that seemed impenetrable. Kneeling, he carefully planted the ferns, using the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique to stabilize their roots. The plants responded immediately, their silvery leaves glowing brighter as they absorbed the rich energy of the mountain.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
As Tao finished, a deep, resonant voice echoed through the air.
¡°You have succeeded in your first task.¡±
Tao stood, his heart pounding. Before him, a faint light coalesced into a scroll that floated gently into his hands. The voice continued:
¡°This cultivation method is your reward. To proceed further, you must reach the mid-stage of Qi Condensation. Only then will the path up the mountain reveal itself.¡±
Tao¡¯s mind churned with questions, the silence of the Jade Mountain realm weighing heavily on him. He clutched the scroll in his hands, the words of the unseen voice still ringing in his ears:You must reach mid-stage Qi Condensation before ascending further.But why him? Why this mountain?
Before he could untangle his thoughts, the air grew unnaturally cold. The mist around him began to thicken, swirling like a living thing. It coiled and twisted, blotting out the ethereal glow of the realm. A faint, almost musical chime echoed through the air, as if the very essence of the mountain were singing.
Tao¡¯s heart raced as a shape began to form within the mist¡ªa silhouette both elegant and imposing. Slowly, the fog peeled away, revealing a creature that seemed to step out of myth itself.
The fox emerged with an almost lazy grace, its fur shimmering with a luminescent sheen, as though woven from the light of the moon. Nine tails unfurled behind it, their movements hypnotic, trailing streams of silver flame that hissed softly in the air. Its golden eyes locked onto Tao, piercing and ancient, filled with a knowing amusement that sent a chill down his spine.
The fox tilted its head, its voice rich and layered, like the echo of a bell in a quiet temple. ¡°So, this is the one who stumbles into the mountain¡¯s favour. Curious.¡±
Tao¡¯s breath caught in his throat. The fox¡¯s presence was overwhelming, its every movement exuding an otherworldly authority. ¡°Who¡­ what are you?¡±
The fox chuckled, a sound both melodic and sharp, like a blade wrapped in silk. ¡°You have many questions, little one. Far too many. But if you insist, you may call me Shenli. I am the guardian of this mountain, the weaver of its mysteries, and the keeper of secrets you are far too green to comprehend.¡±
Tao straightened; his awe tempered by a flicker of defiance. ¡°If I¡¯m not ready, then why was I brought here? Why did the mountain choose me?¡±
Shenli¡¯s tails swayed lazily, the silver flames dancing in intricate patterns. ¡°Why indeed? The mountain¡¯s choices are its own, inscrutable and infinite. Perhaps it saw potential in you. Or perhaps it simply needed entertainment.¡±
Tao frowned, frustration simmering. ¡°What¡¯s at the top of the mountain? What legacy am I supposed to strive for?¡±
The fox¡¯s gaze sharpened, its golden eyes narrowing. ¡°Legacy?¡± It let out a soft, derisive snort. ¡°Always so eager for answers, you humans. The peak holds what it holds. Power? Enlightenment? Perhaps a fate you¡¯d wish you¡¯d never sought. Only those who climb it will know.¡±
Tao stepped forward, his voice rising. ¡°You¡¯re avoiding the question. Why is this mountain connected to me?¡±
Shenli yawned, baring sharp, pearl white teeth that gleamed in the silver light. ¡°Ah, humans. So persistent, so noisy.¡± It regarded him with a faint smirk. ¡°The mountain and you are bound, yes, but not in a way you can grasp yet. That bond may be a gift, or it may be a burden. Time will tell which you deserve.¡±
The fox began to circle him, its movements fluid and deliberate. ¡°But let me give you some advice, little cultivator. This realm does not reward idle curiosity. You will find no answers by pestering me like a child begging for scraps. If you wish to understand, then prove yourself worthy of the mountain¡¯s favour.¡±
Tao clenched his fists, frustration boiling over. ¡°Then tell me how! How do I prove myself?¡±
Shenli stopped abruptly, its tails flaring behind it like a silver storm. The air around them trembled, and Tao felt an invisible pressure weigh down on him. The fox¡¯s expression shifted, a cold amusement glinting in its eyes.
¡°Enough,¡± it said, its voice a soft growl that carried the weight of the realm itself. ¡°Your questions bore me. If you wish to ascend, then climb. If you wish to grow, then struggle. That is all you need to know.¡±
With a flick of its paw, the mist around Tao surged like a tidal wave. He felt an immense force strike him, his body weightless as he was hurled through the air. The fox¡¯s voice echoed faintly, laced with a mocking edge.
¡°Out you go, little cultivator. Come back when you have something more interesting to offer.¡±
The world spun violently, and Tao landed with a jolt. He gasped, his hands clutching the cool grass of the forest clearing. The Jade Mountain¡¯s pulse throbbed faintly within his dantian, a steady reminder of what he had just left behind.
The Moonlit Ferns were gone, planted securely in the pocket realm. Relief flickered through him, but it was short-lived. Tao rushed back to his quarters, only to find the door ajar.
Inside, chaos reigned. His belongings were scattered, the Veil of Stillness Array shattered. Rage boiled in his chest as he took in the destruction. It could only be Wei¡¯s handiwork.
As he stood amidst the wreckage, the jade mountain pulsed again, a faint but resolute presence. Tao¡¯s eyes narrowed. Wei had made a grave mistake.
This time, Tao would make sure he learned it. Chapter 19: Unyielding Mountain Spirit Tao stepped into his quarters, expecting the familiar calm of his sanctuary. Instead, chaos greeted him. His belongings were scattered across the room, the Veil of Stillness Array shattered into useless fragments. His cultivation resources¡ªcarefully stored cultivation guides and herbs¡ªwere either destroyed or missing. The room felt hollow, as if it had been violated. For a moment, Tao stood frozen, his mind refusing to accept what his eyes were seeing. Then, like a storm breaking over a tranquil sea, rage surged through him. His Qi rippled uncontrollably, the air around him trembling under the weight of his fury. ¡°Wei.¡± The name escaped his lips like a growl, his voice low and dangerous. Tao¡¯s breath came in sharp bursts as he clenched his fists. His vision blurred at the edges, but his mind burned with a singular purpose. He stormed out of the room, his Qi flaring in violent waves. Disciples in the corridor stopped in their tracks, their gazes filled with unease as Tao passed. ¡°Where is Jian?¡± Tao¡¯s voice was sharp, cutting through the murmurs around him. Jian was sitting on the edge of a stone bench by the training grounds when Tao found him. The moment Jian saw Tao¡¯s stormy expression and the wild fluctuations of Qi distorting the air around him, he sat up straight, his casual demeanour vanishing. ¡°What happened?¡± Jian asked cautiously. ¡°Where is Wei?¡± Tao demanded, his voice low and dangerous. Jian blinked, taken aback. ¡°Why are you¡ª¡± ¡°Where is he, Jian?¡± Tao interrupted; his voice low but trembling with suppressed fury Jian hesitated, glancing around nervously. ¡°He¡¯s in the lower courtyard. Tao, what¡¯s going on?¡± Tao didn¡¯t respond. He turned and strode away, his steps precise and deliberate, like the build-up of a tidal wave. Jian frowned but followed at a distance, muttering under his breath, ¡°This isn¡¯t going to end well.¡± The lower courtyard was alive with chatter and activity, disciples sparring or meditating in the open space. But as Tao entered, the air grew heavy, his presence silencing the noise. The oppressive ripple of his Qi drew the attention of everyone present, their conversations fading into uneasy whispers. In the centre of the courtyard stood Wei, lounging against a stone pillar, his lackeys gathered around him. He was laughing, his voice loud and grating, his posture exuding smug confidence. Tao stopped a dozen paces away, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. His voice cut through the courtyard like a blade. ¡°Wei.¡± The single word was quiet but carried the weight of a crashing wave. The laughter died as Wei turned, his smirk faltering for a fraction of a second before returning. ¡°Tao!¡± Wei said, spreading his arms theatrically. ¡°What brings you here? Come to join the fun?¡± Tao¡¯s gaze was cold, unblinking. ¡°You know why I¡¯m here.¡±Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. Wei tilted his head, feigning innocence. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I don¡¯t. Care to enlighten me?¡± Tao didn¡¯t answer. His hand moved to the hilt of his sword, and the faint hum of Qi resonated through the air. The Raging Waves Sword Art began to stir, the pressure around Tao intensifying. Wei¡¯s smirk twisted into a sneer. ¡°Oh, so it¡¯s like that, is it? Careful, Tao. Attacking a fellow disciple without cause is a serious offense.¡± Tao¡¯s eyes burned with fury. ¡°You crossed the line, Wei. This is your only warning.¡± Wei chuckled, stepping forward. ¡°And what will you do if I don¡¯t back down? You think you can beat me? Don¡¯t forget, my cultivation is higher than yours.¡± Tao¡¯s grip tightened on his sword. ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡± The courtyard erupted into chaos as Tao struck first. A water infused arc of Qi shot from his blade, crashing toward Wei with the force of a tidal wave. Wei barely managed to dodge, the attack tearing through the ground where he had stood. Wei retaliated immediately, unleashing a blazing palm technique. Flames roared toward Tao, but he sidestepped with precision, countering with another strike from the Raging Waves Sword Art. The clash of water and fire sent steam hissing into the air, shrouding the battlefield in mist. The fight was relentless. Tao¡¯s attacks were fierce and unyielding, each swing of his sword embodying the flow and force of crashing waves. Wei¡¯s techniques were powerful but lacked the precision and adaptability of Tao¡¯s movements. ¡°You¡¯re stronger than I thought,¡± Wei admitted, his voice laced with frustration. ¡°But you¡¯re still beneath me!¡± He unleashed a torrent of flames, but Tao met it head-on, channelling his Qi into a powerful surge. The water Qi engulfed the flames, extinguishing them with a deafening hiss. Tao closed the distance in an instant, his sword slashing downward with the weight of a collapsing mountain. Tao¡¯s strikes were relentless, each one heavier and more forceful than the last. The Raging Waves Sword Art amplified his fury, his movements like a tempest crashing against Wei¡¯s defences. Wei¡¯s cultivation was higher, but Tao¡¯s sheer ferocity overwhelmed him. Wei raised his arm to block, but the force of the strike sent him sprawling to the ground. Wei struggled to rise, blood dripping from the corner of his mouth. ¡°You... you¡¯ll regret this,¡± he spat, his voice trembling with rage and humiliation as he glared up at Tao with venomous eyes. Before Tao could respond, a voice rang out, cold and commanding. ¡°Enough!¡± The elders arrived, their presence like an oppressive weight on the courtyard. The disciples watching the fight scattered, bowing hastily as the elders approached. ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡± one elder demanded, his sharp gaze shifting between Tao and Wei. Wei struggled to his feet, clutching his side. ¡°He attacked me without provocation!¡± he shouted, his voice trembling with both pain and indignation. Tao sheathed his sword, his expression unchanging. ¡°He ransacked my quarters. Destroyed my belongings. He¡ª¡± ¡°Do you have proof?¡± an elder interrupted, his sharp gaze pinning Tao in place. Tao faltered, the words catching in his throat. ¡°Then this is nothing more than baseless accusation and reckless violence,¡± the elder said coldly. ¡°Your actions are unacceptable. You will face punishment.¡± Tao was led away in silence, his anger simmering beneath the surface. The elders sentenced him to solitary confinement, locking him in a dark, isolated chamber. Sitting alone in the oppressive stillness, Tao¡¯s mind churned with anger and frustration. His thoughts consumed by Wei¡¯s smirk and the humiliation of his punishment. But as his anger began to subside, his gaze fell on the scroll tucked in his robes. He pulled it out, the faint glow of its parchment illuminating the chamber. As Tao began to read, the words seemed to pulse with a power that resonated deep within him. ¡°Unyielding Mountain Spirit.¡± The name echoed in his mind as he delved into the profound teachings of the method. The cultivation manual spoke of resilience, of standing firm against the storms of life and turning adversity into strength. Tao¡¯s breathing slowed, his focus sharpening. In the stillness of the chamber, he began the first steps of the Unyielding Mountain Spirit, the weight of his anger giving way to a calm, unshakable resolve. Chapter 20: Solitary Confinement The stone chamber was silent, save for the faint drip of water echoing from somewhere unseen. Tao sat cross legged on the cold floor, his back straight, his hands resting on his knees. The oppressive stillness weighed on him like a shroud, but it was nothing compared to the storm raging in his mind. The fight with Wei played on a loop in his thoughts. The way Wei had sneered, the disbelief on the elders¡¯ faces, and the cold judgment in their voices¡ªeach moment burned like a brand. Tao¡¯s fists clenched involuntarily. He had been right, and yet he had been the one punished. What burned within him even more fiercely was the knowledge that without the fiery edge of his anger, he would never have overcome Wei. His rage had seeped into the Raging Waves Sword Art, sharpening it, empowering each strike until the movements became instinctual, flowing as naturally as a storm unleashed upon the sea. Focus. The word cut through his anger, a whisper from the depths of his mind. Tao exhaled slowly, forcing his Qi to settle. The scroll lay before him, its faintly glowing characters seeming to pulse in time with the Jade Mountain within his dantian. He unfolded it, his fingers brushing the ancient parchment. As he read, the words seemed to resonate within him, as though the scroll was speaking directly to his soul. ¡°Unyielding Mountain Spirit.¡± The name sent a shiver through him. The cultivation method described a path of resilience and strength, of becoming a force that could weather any storm and crush any obstacle. The first stage, Anchoring the Roots, focused on stabilizing one¡¯s foundation, fortifying the dantian like the base of a mighty peak. Tao closed his eyes and began to channel his Qi, following the scroll¡¯s instructions. The process was meticulous, requiring him to visualize his Qi as the roots of a mountain, sinking deep into the earth, unshakable and immovable.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! Time lost meaning. Hours, perhaps days, passed as Tao cultivated. The oppressive darkness of the chamber faded from his awareness, replaced by a growing sense of clarity. As he worked, a faint pulse began to emanate from the Jade Mountain within his dantian. At first, it was subtle, like a heartbeat. But with each cycle of Qi, the pulse grew stronger, its rhythm aligning with the flow of the Unyielding Mountain Spirit. Suddenly, a vision engulfed him. He stood on the Spirit Mountain, the air thick with energy. The sky above churned with storm clouds, and the ground beneath his feet hummed with power. Before him loomed a massive stone gate, its surface carved with ancient runes that seemed to shift and shimmer. The gate began to creak open, revealing a blinding light. Within the light, Tao could make out the faint outline of a winding path leading upward, its end obscured by mist. A voice echoed in his mind, deep and resonant. ¡°The mountain endures, but the peak is earned. Strive, and you may ascend.¡± Tao reached for the gate, but the vision dissolved before he could take a step. He opened his eyes, the cold chamber returning to him. His breathing was steady, his mind calm. He could feel the change within him. His Qi was more stable, his dantian fortified, and his connection to the Jade Mountain stronger than ever. For the first time in days, Tao smiled. Beyond the confines of the chamber, the sect buzzed with rumours. Some disciples whispered that Tao had been punished unfairly, a victim of Wei¡¯s scheming. Others argued that Tao¡¯s reckless behaviour had earned him his punishment. Wei, meanwhile, seethed in private. His injuries were severe, his pride shattered. But his hatred for Tao burned brighter than ever. ¡°This isn¡¯t over,¡± he muttered, his voice venomous. ¡°He¡¯ll regret ever crossing me.¡± Wei began to scheme, his humiliation fuelling a burning need for revenge. He approached Yun Fei, a senior disciple known for his cunning, hoping to secure his help. ¡°Tao needs to be put in his place,¡± Wei said bitterly. ¡°You and I can make sure he doesn¡¯t overstep again.¡± Yun Fei¡¯s cold gaze lingered on him for a moment before he gave a faint nod. Wei smirked, satisfied that his plan was beginning to take shape. Chapter 21: The Elders’ Decision The elders convened in the Hall of Resolve, a chamber at the heart of the Verdant Dawn Sect. The room was dimly lit, the only illumination coming from a circle of glowing jade orbs suspended above the polished stone table where they sat. At the head of the table was Elder Hua, her sharp eyes scanning the scroll before her. She was the overseer of the Herb Pavilion and renowned for her strictness. Beside her sat Elder Jianyu, the head of combat training, his broad shoulders and weathered face a testament to years of battle. Across from him was Elder Mei, who managed the sect¡¯s external relations, her robes pristine and her demeanour as cold as the winter wind. ¡°His actions were reckless,¡± Elder Hua began, her voice clipped. ¡°Tao¡¯s confrontation with Wei was a direct violation of sect rules. No matter the provocation, he cannot be allowed to act with such impunity.¡± Elder Jianyu leaned back in his chair, his hand stroking his chin. ¡°Reckless, yes. But effective. From what I¡¯ve heard, Tao defeated Wei despite being at a lower cultivation level. That speaks to his potential.¡± Elder Mei raised an eyebrow. ¡°Potential or not, we cannot have disciples settling disputes through violence. It sets a dangerous precedent, especially with tensions already rising in the outer regions.¡± Elder Jianyu frowned. ¡°You¡¯re speaking of the Ironwood Tower Sect?¡± Mei¡¯s gaze flickered toward him. ¡°Their messengers grow bolder with each passing month. Their requests for ¡®cooperation¡¯ are little more than veiled demands. The last thing we need is internal chaos giving them an excuse to press further.¡± Hua tapped her fingers on the table, her expression unreadable. ¡°This is why discipline is crucial. If Tao believes he can act without consequence, it will undermine the sect¡¯s authority.¡± ¡°Discipline is one thing,¡± Jianyu countered, his voice firm. ¡°Crushing talent is another. We cannot afford to alienate promising disciples, especially if the Ironwood Tower Sect continues its provocations. We need strength within our ranks.¡± Mei inclined her head slightly. ¡°Strength without control is a liability. You know as well as I do that the Ironwood Tower Sect thrives on exploiting weakness. A rogue disciple could give them all the justification they need to escalate their actions.¡±A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of their words hanging in the air. Finally, Hua sighed, her fingers brushing the edge of the scroll. ¡°Then we find a middle ground. Tao¡¯s punishment must be severe enough to remind him of his place, but not so harsh as to stifle his growth.¡± ¡°What do you suggest?¡± Jianyu asked. ¡°We continue with the solitary confinement,¡± Hua said. ¡°Let him reflect on his actions. Once his punishment is complete, we assign him a mission¡ªsomething challenging but not impossible. If he succeeds, it will prove his worth and restore balance to the sect.¡± Mei nodded, her expression approving. ¡°A reasonable course of action. But we should ensure the mission serves our interests. Perhaps something that aligns with our ongoing efforts in the outer regions.¡± Jianyu leaned forward; his tone thoughtful. ¡°There¡¯s the Obsidian Cloud Lotus in the Black Hollow Forest. Harvesting it requires both skill and courage. It¡¯s a test that will push him without being insurmountable.¡± Hua tapped her fingers one last time before nodding. ¡°Agreed. Solitary confinement, followed by the mission. Let us see if Tao can rise to the challenge.¡± The decision made, the elders turned their attention to other matters, their conversation shifting to reports of Ironwood Tower Sect activity along the borders. But even as they spoke, a faint unease lingered in the room. The Ironwood Tower Sect¡¯s shadow loomed larger with each passing day, and the Verdant Dawn Sect would need all the strength it could muster to weather the coming storm. A month later, Tao¡¯s solitude was broken by the sound of the chamber door creaking open. Elder Jianyu stepped inside, his expression unreadable. ¡°Tao,¡± he said, his voice echoing in the stillness. ¡°Your time here is over. The sect has decided to give you a chance to redeem yourself.¡± Tao stood, his gaze steady. ¡°What do you mean?¡± Jianyu handed him a jade slip. ¡°A mission. The Obsidian Cloud Lotus grows in the Black Hollow Forest, a region infested with spirit beasts. Retrieve it and return. Succeed, and your punishment will be lifted. Fail...¡± The elder didn¡¯t finish the sentence, but the implication was clear. Tao accepted the jade slip without hesitation. ¡°I¡¯ll return,¡± he said simply. As he stepped out of the chamber, the sunlight stung his eyes, but he didn¡¯t flinch. The Jade Mountain pulsed faintly within him, a reminder of the power he now carried. He tightened his grip on the jade slip, his mind already turning toward the dangers ahead. Chapter 22: Preparing to Depart The door to Tao¡¯s quarters creaked open, the faint scent of stale air greeting him. He paused on the threshold, his gaze sweeping over the disarray that remained untouched since Wei¡¯s attack. His belongings lay scattered, broken and tossed aside, as if mocking his absence. The remnants of the shattered Veil of Stillness Array flickered faintly in the corner; its power long since drained. Tao stepped inside, closing the door behind him. The silence was heavy, pressing against his thoughts. With a resigned sigh, he began to tidy up, picking up broken items and placing them aside. As he worked, his mind turned to the mission. The elders¡¯ words lingered: a chance for redemption, a chance to prove himself. But the Black Hollow Forest was no simple challenge. A knock at the door broke his thoughts. Tao straightened, brushing the dust from his hands as he opened it. Jian stood on the other side, his usual smirk in place. ¡°Back in one piece, I see,¡± Jian said, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation. He glanced around at the mess. ¡°Still haven¡¯t cleaned up? You¡¯re as messy as ever.¡± Tao snorted. ¡°Blame Wei for that.¡± Jian¡¯s expression sobered. ¡°Speaking of Wei, you¡¯ll be glad to know he¡¯s gone into seclusion. Trying to break into the third level of Qi Condensation.¡± Tao raised an eyebrow. ¡°Seclusion, huh? That explains why I haven¡¯t seen him lurking around.¡± Jian leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. ¡°It won¡¯t last forever. If he succeeds, he¡¯ll be even more of a problem.¡± Tao nodded, his thoughts turning grim. ¡°I¡¯ll deal with that when the time comes. Right now, I have this mission to focus on.¡± At Jian¡¯s prompting, Tao retrieved the jade slip the elders had given him. He placed it against his forehead, allowing the information to flow into his mind. The details of the mission unfolded: the location of the Obsidian Cloud Lotus, the dangers of the Black Hollow Forest, and a map marking the flower¡¯s general location.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°It¡¯s not much to go on,¡± Tao muttered, lowering the slip ¡°although the map shows that it¡¯s not too far into the Black Hollow Forest.¡± Jian raised an eyebrow. ¡°A map is better than nothing. At least you won¡¯t be wandering blind.¡± Tao glanced at him. ¡°You sound awfully invested.¡± Jian shrugged. ¡°That¡¯s because I¡¯m going with you.¡± Tao blinked, caught off guard. ¡°You don¡¯t have to. This is my mission.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be stupid,¡± Jian said, his tone light but firm. ¡°The Black Hollow Forest isn¡¯t the kind of place you survive alone. Besides, the elders didn¡¯t say you couldn¡¯t have someone watching your back.¡± For a moment, Tao didn¡¯t respond. The idea of someone willingly putting themselves at risk for him was... unfamiliar. He cleared his throat. ¡°Thanks, Jian.¡± Jian waved a hand dismissively. ¡°Don¡¯t get sentimental on me. Just don¡¯t slow me down.¡± The two sat down and Tao tried to recreate the map on a scrap of parchment while they discussed the best approach. The journey would take several days, with dangerous terrain and potential spirit beast encounters. ¡°We¡¯ll need to be ready for anything,¡± Jian said. ¡°What techniques do you have?¡± Tao frowned. ¡°Not enough for something like this. I¡¯ve been relying on the Raging Waves Sword Art and the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique, but neither will be enough if we¡¯re ambushed or overwhelmed.¡± Jian nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Then you need more techniques. Restricted ones. You¡¯ve got sect points, right?¡± Tao hesitated. ¡°I do, but I¡¯ve never exchanged them for anything apart from herbs and plants.¡± Jian rolled his eyes. ¡°Of course you haven¡¯t. Look, the Treasure Hall has everything you¡¯ll need. Defensive charms, movement techniques, even items to counter spirit beasts. Use your points, Tao. No point hoarding them if you¡¯re dead.¡± Tao sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll go tomorrow.¡± Jian grinned. ¡°Good. And while you¡¯re at it, grab something flashy for me.¡± Tao snorted, the tension easing slightly. For the first time in days, he felt a glimmer of confidence. With Jian by his side and proper preparation, the mission didn¡¯t seem as insurmountable as it had before. As the evening wore on, the two continued to plan, their conversation drifting between strategies and light-hearted banter. But beneath the surface, both knew the stakes were high. The Black Hollow Forest was a place of danger, and the journey ahead would test them both in ways they couldn¡¯t yet imagine. Chapter 23: Preparing to Depart [Treasure Hall] Tao entered the Treasure Hall, the faint hum of spiritual energy filling the air. Shelves stretched into the distance, glowing softly with Qi infused items and scrolls. The attendant glanced up from his desk, raising an eyebrow as Tao handed over his sect token. ¡°Looking for anything specific?¡± the attendant asked, his tone bored. ¡°Movement and defence,¡± Tao replied, his voice steady. The attendant nodded, gesturing toward a section of the hall where restricted techniques were displayed. Tao walked over, his eyes scanning the rows of glowing scrolls. One caught his attention immediately: Flowing Leaf Steps. The description painted a vivid picture of an evasive movement technique that allowed the user to glide through the battlefield like a falling leaf, unpredictable and swift. Tao imagined himself weaving through the dense mist of the Black Hollow Forest, his enemies¡¯ attacks striking nothing but air. He reached for the scroll but hesitated. Mobility alone wouldn¡¯t be enough. His thoughts drifted to the ferocity of the spirit beasts rumoured to roam the forest. He needed something to bolster his defences. Further down the row, a faint golden glow drew his gaze. The Stone Skin Technique promised temporary but powerful resistance to physical and Qi based attacks. Tao picked it up, feeling a faint resonance as his Qi brushed against the scroll. It was as if the technique acknowledged his determination. ¡°These two,¡± Tao said, returning to the counter. The attendant inspected the scrolls, nodding as he deducted the points from Tao¡¯s token. ¡°Good choices,¡± he said. ¡°Flowing Leaf Steps is one of the more versatile movement arts we offer. Stone Skin, though¡ªit¡¯s not forgiving. Push it too far, and it¡¯ll drain your Qi dry.¡± Tao nodded, accepting the warning. ¡°I¡¯ll manage.¡± As he left the hall, the scrolls tucked safely in his satchel, Tao felt a flicker of confidence. With these techniques, he was no longer walking into the unknown unprepared. The mission would still be dangerous, but now he had tools to tip the scales in his favour Tao returned to his quarters, the scrolls of Flowing Leaf Steps and Stone Skin Technique tucked safely in his satchel. The faint hum of spiritual energy emanating from them was a constant reminder of the challenges ahead. His room greeted him with the same disarray as before¡ªscattered belongings, broken furniture, and the faint marks of Wei¡¯s earlier violation. He sighed but made no move to tidy. There were more pressing matters to attend to. He placed the scrolls on the only intact corner of his desk, their faint glow casting soft patterns on the wall. He unrolled the Flowing Leaf Steps scroll first, scanning the elegant script and intricate diagrams. The technique¡¯s elegance belied its complexity. The descriptions spoke of synchronizing one¡¯s Qi with movement, creating an almost instinctual flow that allowed the user to glide unpredictably. Tao stepped into the center of the room, realizing almost immediately how cramped the space was. He barely had enough room to stretch, let alone practice a movement art. The technique required large, sweeping steps and precise changes in direction¡ªthings impossible to achieve in his quarters. ¡°Of course,¡± Tao muttered, rolling the scroll up again. He turned to the Stone Skin Technique instead. This was a more straightforward art, focusing on hardening the skin by condensing Qi along its surface. Tao sat cross-legged, closing his eyes as he began to circulate his Qi. The process was anything but simple.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. At first, the Qi resisted, slipping from his control and dissipating before it could settle on his skin. He tried again, gritting his teeth as he visualized the technique¡¯s principles. Slowly, the energy began to respond, forming a faint sheen over his arms. The effort was immense¡ªhis Qi reserves drained rapidly, and his body felt heavy, as though weighed down by the energy. When he finally released the technique, his breathing was ragged, sweat dripping from his forehead. He glanced at the desk, where the scroll¡¯s faint glow seemed to mock him. ¡°Not forgiving¡± was an understatement. If he pushed this technique too far, it would leave him completely vulnerable. Frustration bubbled beneath the surface, but Tao forced it down. These weren¡¯t arts he could master in a single session. They were tools, each requiring discipline and persistence. With that thought in mind, he gathered the scrolls and stepped outside. The cool evening air was a relief after the stifling confines of his room. Tao walked toward an open training ground near the edge of the disciple quarters, where the stone-paved floor provided enough space to practice. He began with Flowing Leaf Steps, focusing on the initial stances and transitions. The technique was far more difficult than he¡¯d anticipated. Each movement demanded perfect Qi synchronization, and any misstep caused the flow to break, leaving him stumbling awkwardly. Hours passed as Tao repeated the motions, his frustration mounting with every failed attempt. The words from the scroll echoed in his mind: A leaf does not fight the wind; it dances with it. Taking a deep breath, he adjusted his stance and cleared his mind. This time, he focused less on forcing the movements and more on letting them flow naturally. His Qi began to respond, each step feeling lighter, more fluid. When he stopped, his legs ached, and his Qi was nearly depleted, but a faint sense of accomplishment lingered. The Stone Skin Technique proved no easier. Activating it drained his energy rapidly, and the hardened layer of Qi on his skin faded almost as soon as it formed. By the time Tao finished his training, his body felt like it had been wrung dry. As he returned to his quarters, he realized the techniques weren¡¯t just difficult¡ªthey were dangerous. Improper execution could leave him vulnerable in critical moments, but mastery would give him a fighting chance in the Black Hollow Forest. When he reached his quarters, he barely had time to catch his breath before a knock sounded at the door. Tao opened it to find Jian leaning casually against the frame, his ever-present smirk in place. ¡°Practicing already?¡± Jian asked, stepping inside uninvited. He glanced at the mess and raised an eyebrow. ¡°Still haven¡¯t cleaned this up?¡± Tao closed the door behind him. ¡°Not a priority.¡± Jian¡¯s expression softened slightly. ¡°Good. Focus on the mission. We can talk about cleaning after you survive the forest.¡± Tao chuckled dryly, settling into the chair by his desk. ¡°So, what brings you here?¡± Jian leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. ¡°Just wanted to check in. I saw you heading toward the training grounds earlier. You looked... determined.¡± ¡°I have to be,¡± Tao said, his tone serious. ¡°The techniques I picked aren¡¯t easy to master. Flowing Leaf Steps is elegant, but it demands complete Qi control. And Stone Skin? It drains you faster than you¡¯d expect.¡± Jian nodded. ¡°They¡¯re advanced techniques. Not something most first-stage cultivators would even attempt. But if you can pull it off, they¡¯ll give you an edge.¡± Tao hesitated before speaking. ¡°Thank you, by the way. For offering to come with me.¡± Jian waved a hand dismissively. ¡°Don¡¯t make it weird. The Black Hollow Forest isn¡¯t the kind of place you tackle alone. Besides, I¡¯m curious to see how far you¡¯ve come.¡± Tao smirked faintly. ¡°Curious or bored?¡± ¡°Both,¡± Jian admitted, grinning. ¡°Now, have you thought about supplies? Qi replenishment pills, maybe some traps for spirit beasts?¡± Tao shook his head, a faint grimace crossing his face. ¡°I used up all my spirit stones in the city. I¡¯ll have to make do with whatever I have left in my quarters.¡± Jian raised an eyebrow. ¡°That¡¯s not ideal. You¡¯re heading into one of the most dangerous places around. We¡¯ll figure something out tomorrow¡ªmaybe the Treasure Hall has some options that don¡¯t cost stones.¡± ¡°Maybe,¡± Tao said, though his tone lacked confidence. Jian clapped him on the shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t overthink it. Rest first, plan tomorrow. You¡¯ve got enough to worry about without running yourself into the ground.¡± As Jian left, Tao leaned back in his chair, exhaustion pulling at him. The techniques were daunting, the mission dangerous, but for the first time, he felt like he wasn¡¯t facing it alone. With Jian¡¯s support and his growing arsenal of skills, the Black Hollow Forest no longer seemed like an impossible task. Chapter 24: Preparing to Depart [Jianyus guidance] The clang of swords echoed through the air as Tao and Jian approached the Combat Hall. The building loomed ahead; its grand stone facade adorned with intricate carvings of warriors locked in eternal battle. Disciples of all ranks sparred in the open courtyards, their Qi infused strikes illuminating the dusk with bursts of energy. ¡°This is your idea of preparation?¡± Tao muttered, glancing at Jian. Jian smirked. ¡°What better way to refine your techniques than under pressure? Besides, it¡¯s not like you¡¯re heading into the Black Hollow Forest to have a picnic.¡± Tao sighed, following Jian into the bustling courtyard. His gaze darted between sparring pairs, noting the precision and intensity of their movements. Most of these disciples were far beyond him in cultivation, their techniques polished and commanding. The weight of his punishment pressed against him again, a reminder of how far he had to climb. ¡°Jian! Tao!¡± The booming voice turned their heads. Elder Jianyu stood at the edge of the courtyard, his imposing figure cutting through the noise. The head of the Combat Hall was a mountain of a man, his broad shoulders and weathered face exuding an aura of battle hardened experience. His sharp eyes locked onto them, and a faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. ¡°You¡¯re not here to sightsee, are you?¡± Jianyu asked, striding toward them. Jian straightened, offering a respectful bow. ¡°We¡¯re preparing for Tao¡¯s mission, Elder Jianyu.¡± ¡°Preparing for the Black Hollow Forest, are you?¡± Jianyu asked, his sharp gaze studying Tao. ¡°You¡¯ll need more than determination to survive that place. What are you working on?¡± Tao hesitated before answering. ¡°Two techniques, Elder. One for movement, one for defence.¡± Jianyu¡¯s eyebrows lifted slightly; his curiosity piqued. ¡°Two techniques, you say? Show me.¡± He led them to a private training area, away from the noise of the courtyard. The space was bare except for a smooth stone floor and a rack of training weapons along one wall. Jianyu gestured for Tao to step forward. ¡°Show me,¡± Jianyu said simply. Tao nodded, unrolling the scroll for Flowing Leaf Steps and placing it aside. He closed his eyes, cantering himself as he began to circulate his Qi. The technique required fluidity and balance, but under Jianyu¡¯s piercing gaze, his movements felt clumsy. His first attempt faltered, his Qi flow breaking with each misstep. Jianyu¡¯s voice cut through the silence. ¡°You¡¯re forcing it. Flowing Leaf Steps isn¡¯t about power, it¡¯s about balance. Stop trying to control it. Let your Qi guide you.¡±If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Taking a deep breath, Tao adjusted his stance and cleared his mind. This time, his movements flowed more naturally. Each step felt lighter, leaving faint afterimages as he moved across the floor. Jianyu nodded, though his tone remained critical. ¡°Better. But you¡¯re leaving openings in your rhythm. Refine it, or you¡¯ll be vulnerable.¡± Next, Tao activated the Stone Skin Technique. His Qi surged, condensing along his arms and chest. A faint grey sheen hardened his skin, making it as tough as polished stone. He struck his forearm against a training post, splintering the wood on impact. Jianyu inspected him closely. ¡°Impressive for your level. But this technique drains Qi like a leaking barrel. Use it recklessly, and you¡¯ll collapse before the real fight begins.¡± Releasing the technique, Tao bowed his head, his breathing laboured. The elder¡¯s critiques stung, but they were honest, and they drove him to push harder. Jianyu stepped back, crossing his arms. ¡°Techniques alone won¡¯t carry you through the forest. The Black Hollow Forest is alive, Spirit beasts aren¡¯t the only threat. There are old formations, shifting terrain, and worse. The place will test your instincts as much as your strength. If you can¡¯t adapt, you won¡¯t survive.¡± Jian hesitated before speaking. ¡°Elder Jianyu, do you think the Ironwood Tower Sect has anything to do with the forest¡¯s dangers?¡± Jianyu¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly. ¡°The Ironwood Tower Sect has been watching that region for years. Whether they¡¯ve set traps or simply linger in the shadows, you¡¯d do well to keep your guard up. The forest is contested, even if it doesn¡¯t seem so at first glance.¡± Tao¡¯s stomach tightened at the implication. The mission was already daunting enough without the possibility of running into rival cultivators. Jianyu clapped him on the shoulder, his grip firm. ¡°Don¡¯t overthink it. You¡¯ve been given a chance to prove yourself. Make the most of it.¡± With that, the elder turned and walked away, leaving Tao and Jian alone in the training area. ¡°Well,¡± Jian said after a moment, his usual smirk returning. ¡°That wasn¡¯t terrifying at all.¡± Tao let out a dry laugh, his shoulders relaxing slightly. ¡°At least he didn¡¯t say we were hopeless.¡± ¡°Not in so many words,¡± Jian quipped. As they exited the Combat Hall, the weight of Jianyu¡¯s words lingered. Tao felt a mix of exhaustion and determination. The Black Hollow Forest loomed ahead, but for the first time, it felt like a challenge he could face. Later that evening, Tao sat cross legged in his quarters, his breathing steady as he circulated his Qi. Jianyu¡¯s words echoed in his mind: ¡°Let your Qi guide you.¡± He focused inward, visualizing the techniques he had practiced. His Qi pulsed within him, steady but restrained, as though held back by an invisible barrier. Tao gritted his teeth and continued to channel his Qi using the method specified in the Unyielding Mountain Spirit guide. He continued to push hard, his mind racing through the frustrations of the past weeks, Wei¡¯s betrayal, and the punishment he had endured. The Jade Mountain within his dantian pulsed faintly, resonating with his determination. Suddenly, the barrier gave way. A surge of energy coursed through him, flooding his meridians with power. Tao¡¯s body trembled as his Qi expanded, his senses sharpening. The oppressive weight of the first stage lifted, replaced by the steady strength of the second stage of Qi Condensation. Tao opened his eyes, his breathing ragged but steady. He clenched his fists, feeling the newfound stability in his Qi. A faint smile tugged at his lips. The Black Hollow Forest was still a daunting challenge, but now, he was ready to face it. Chapter 25: Heading Out The sun cast a pale glow over the Verdant Dawn Sect as Tao and Jian moved through the winding paths of the outer courtyard. Morning mist clung to the ground, curling around their feet like sluggish serpents. Tao adjusted the strap of his satchel, its weight heavier than it should have been, though its contents were meagre. The supply hall loomed ahead; a modest structure built of dark wood reinforced with iron bands. Its roof sagged slightly under the weight of moss and time, and the faint hum of Qi-infused talismans hung in the air. Inside, shelves stretched to the ceiling, filled with tools, talismans, and provisions. The smell of dried herbs and oiled leather lingered in the dim light. Tao scanned the shelves, his eyes lingering on the gleaming rows of Qi-replenishment pills and finely crafted talismans. Each item seemed to mock him, their polished surfaces a stark reminder of his lack of spirit stones. ¡°Anything catching your eye?¡± Jian asked, leaning casually against a nearby post. Tao shook his head, his gaze falling to a corner where the cheaper supplies were haphazardly stacked. He picked up a pair of crude beast traps, their rusted hinges creaking as he tested their mechanisms. Nearby, a roll of thin bedding sat among other worn items. He added it to his bundle and carried it to the counter. The attendant, a middle-aged man with a perpetually sour expression, barely looked up as he tallied the cost. ¡°Using sect points, I assume?¡± he asked, his tone flat. Tao nodded, handing over his sect token. The attendant waved it over a glowing jade orb, and Tao felt a faint pang as the points were deducted. ¡°That it?¡± Jian asked as they stepped outside. ¡°It¡¯s all I can afford,¡± Tao replied, his voice tight. Jian frowned but didn¡¯t press further. Their next stop was the library, a sprawling building of grey stone with narrow windows that allowed thin beams of light to cut through the shadows. Inside, the scent of old parchment and ink filled the air. Rows of shelves stretched into the gloom, each crammed with scrolls and tomes. Tao moved quickly, his fingers trailing over the spines of the books as he searched. ¡°What are you looking for?¡± Jian asked, his voice echoing softly in the stillness. ¡°An array to repel spirit beasts,¡± Tao replied, pulling down a thick tome bound in cracked leather. The book was filled with intricate diagrams and dense text, most of which described arrays far beyond Tao¡¯s ability to craft¡ªor his means to acquire. He flipped through page after page, frustration mounting, until he came across a Beast Repelling Array. It was a basic design, requiring minimal resources and effort, but the description was clear: it would only deter low-level spirit beasts. Anything stronger would barely notice its presence. Tao studied the instructions, committing the details to memory. ¡°This will have to do,¡± he muttered. ¡°Think it¡¯ll work?¡± Jian asked, leaning over his shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s better than nothing,¡± Tao replied, though his tone betrayed his doubt. As they left the library, Tao couldn¡¯t shake the sense of unease settling in his chest. The Wilds were already dangerous enough without going in so poorly equipped.Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. By mid-morning, they stood at the edge of the sect grounds. The air was cool and still. Tao adjusted the strap of his satchel, feeling the weight of the traps and bedding pressing against his shoulder. ¡°You¡¯ve got everything?¡± Jian asked, his tone lighter than before. Tao smirked faintly. ¡°Not much to forget.¡± Inside his satchel his sparse belongings were packed with care. Despite the cool breeze, the weight on his shoulders felt heavier than it should have. Jian walked beside him, his sword slung lazily across his back. ¡°you¡¯ve been out there before, haven¡¯t you? The outer Wilds?¡± Tao nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve ventured to the edges. The sect sends us there often enough, herb collection, basic hunting missions. It¡¯s not exactly safe, but it¡¯s manageable.¡± Jian grinned. ¡°The outer Wilds might¡¯ve been manageable, but the Black Hollow Forest is another beast entirely. This time, you¡¯re heading into the heart of the unknown. The beasts there won¡¯t just scare you; they¡¯ll eat you.¡± Tao gave him a sidelong glance. ¡°Comforting. Thanks.¡± As they passed the sect gates, the faint hum of the protective array resonated in the air, its energy shimmering faintly before them. Beyond the gates, the familiar landscape of the outer Wilds stretched out its towering trees forming an impenetrable wall of green. It was a place Tao knew well, though it never felt welcoming. The dirt path stretched before them, winding through the rolling hills that marked the boundary of the Verdant Dawn Sect. ¡°This is it,¡± Jian said moments later as they reached the forest¡¯s edge. His voice was low, almost reverent. ¡°The Untamed Wilds.¡± The forest seemed to breathe, its presence pressing against Tao¡¯s senses like a living thing. The air was thick and humid, carrying the faint scent of moss and decay. Shadows danced beneath the canopy, their movements unnatural and unsettling. Unbeknownst to them, Yun Fei stood in the shadows of a nearby pavilion, his sharp eyes following their every step. A female disciple stood beside him; her arms crossed as she watched with mild curiosity. ¡°They¡¯re really going,¡± she said, her tone tinged with doubt. Yun Fei smirked, his gaze fixed on Tao and Jian. ¡°Let them. The Wilds don¡¯t spare the weak. If they die, it saves me the trouble. If they survive¡­¡± His smirk widened. ¡°That¡¯s when we¡¯ll act. Whatever they bring back will be mine, and they¡¯ll have nothing to show for their efforts.¡± The disciple hesitated, her brows furrowing. ¡°What if they return stronger?¡± Yun Fei¡¯s expression darkened, his voice sharp. ¡°Stronger? Tao? He¡¯s barely clinging to his cultivation. The Wilds will strip him of whatever hope he has left.¡± The disciple nodded, though a flicker of doubt lingered in her gaze. Yun Fei¡¯s attention, however, was locked on the two figures disappearing into the forest¡¯s shadows. Tao and Jian stepped into the Outer Wilds, the air growing colder as the dense canopy swallowed the light. Every rustle of leaves and distant cry of a spirit beast set Tao¡¯s nerves on edge. ¡°This place is alive,¡± Jian muttered, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. Tao nodded, gripping his own weapon tightly. The forest pressed against them, its energy oppressive and suffocating. The first day of their journey stretched out before them, the Wilds waiting patiently to test their resolve. From a high balcony overlooking the sect grounds, Elder Jianyu stood with his arms crossed, his sharp eyes following the two figures as they disappeared into the forest¡¯s shadowy embrace. The faint wind rustled his robes, carrying with it the distant hum of the protective array that marked the boundary of the sect. ¡°They¡¯re heading out,¡± he murmured, his tone unreadable. Beside him, another elder, robed in the red of the Pill Hall, frowned slightly. ¡°They¡¯re unprepared,¡± the elder said, shaking his head. ¡°Even with Jian there, they¡¯re not equipped for the Black Hollow Forest.¡± Jianyu smirked faintly, the expression tugging at the edges of his weathered face. ¡°That¡¯s what makes it a test. Strength isn¡¯t just about power, it¡¯s about resourcefulness and resolve. Tao¡¯s rough, but there¡¯s something in him¡­ a fire that won¡¯t be snuffed out so easily.¡± ¡°And if they fail?¡± the elder asked, his voice edged with doubt. ¡°Then they were never meant to stand in the face of what¡¯s coming,¡± Jianyu replied, his gaze unwavering. ¡°The Untamed Wilds reveal the truth of all who enter. Let¡¯s see what kind of truth Tao discovers.¡± With that, he turned and strode back into the hall, his figure vanishing into the shadows. Chapter 26: Into the Outer Wilds As Tao stepped forward into the Outer Wilds the familiar scent of moss, damp earth, and faintly lingering Qi filled the air. It had been months since he¡¯d last ventured into the forest, but the Wilds had a way of making every visit feel like the first. Jian walked beside him, his hand resting casually on the hilt of his sword. ¡°You¡¯ve spent more time out here than I have,¡± he said, breaking the silence. ¡°Anything I should know?¡± Tao nodded, his eyes scanning the path ahead. ¡°Stick to the trails when you can but keep an eye on the ground. Tracks and claw marks tell you what¡¯s been here recently. And don¡¯t assume a clearing is safe just because it¡¯s open, it usually means something stronger claimed it.¡± Jian smirked. ¡°Sounds like you¡¯ve had a few close calls.¡± ¡°More than I care to remember,¡± Tao replied. The path twisted and turned, the ground uneven and riddled with roots that snaked across like veins. The trees grew denser, their trunks gnarled and covered in creeping vines. Sunlight filtered through the canopy in fractured beams, casting shifting patterns on the forest floor. As they moved deeper, Tao¡¯s sharp eyes caught a cluster of blue veined leaves growing near the base of a tree. He crouched, plucking a few with practiced precision. ¡°Skyshade Leaf,¡± he explained, holding the delicate leaves up for Jian to see. ¡°Crush it into a paste, and it helps numb pain. Useful if you don¡¯t have pills.¡± Jian knelt beside him, scanning the surrounding foliage. ¡°What about these?¡± He gestured to a patch of yellow flowers with curling petals. ¡°Golden blossom,¡± Tao said. ¡°Boil it in water, and it¡¯ll help counter minor poisons. But don¡¯t eat it raw, it¡¯s toxic until processed.¡± The two worked in tandem, gathering herbs as they moved. Their shared experience in the Herb Pavilion showed in the way they moved through the forest, their hands deft and confident. As they approached a shallow stream, Tao noticed a faint imprint in the muddy bank, a set of large, round tracks with deep grooves where claws had sunk into the soil. ¡°Ironhide Boar,¡± Tao muttered, gesturing for Jian to stop. Jian¡¯s brow furrowed as he studied the tracks. ¡°How fresh?¡± ¡°Within the hour,¡± Tao replied, his voice low. ¡°It¡¯s close.¡± The ground trembled faintly, and a low snort echoed through the trees. Tao¡¯s grip tightened on his sword as the massive boar emerged from the underbrush. Its metallic tusks gleamed in the dappled light, and its hide shimmered like polished steel. ¡°Spirit Beast,¡± Jian said, drawing his sword. ¡°Not just any Spirit Beast,¡± Tao corrected. ¡°Ironhide Boars are tough. Aim for the eyes or the joints, anywhere the hide is thinner.¡± The boar pawed the ground, its breath steaming in the cool air. With a deafening roar, it charged. Tao activated his movement technique Flowing Leaf Steps and sidestepped the initial attack, his blade glancing off the boar¡¯s hide with a shower of sparks. The impact jarred his arm, and he stumbled back, gritting his teeth. Jian darted in from the side, his sword aimed for the creature¡¯s legs, but the boar twisted, deflecting the strike with its tusks. ¡°It¡¯s too fast!¡± Jian shouted, retreating a few paces. Tao¡¯s mind raced as he tried to find an opening. The boar charged again, its tusks gouging deep furrows in the ground. This time, Tao led it toward a narrow ravine, its movements restricted by the tight space. ¡°Now!¡± Tao yelled, leaping to the side as the boar stumbled on uneven ground. Jian moved in swiftly, his blade flashing in a precise arc that severed the tendons in the beast¡¯s leg. The boar collapsed with a bellow, thrashing as Tao delivered the final blow.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. The forest fell silent, save for their heavy breathing. ¡°Good call with the ravine,¡± Jian said, sheathing his sword. Tao nodded. ¡°We¡¯ll need to stay sharper. That was just the Outer Wilds.¡± The forest was silent after the battle, save for the faint rustling of leaves in the wind. Tao wiped the sweat from his brow, staring at the massive Ironhide Boar lying motionless on the forest floor. Its metallic tusks, still gleaming faintly in the fading light, jutted out like weapons. Blood pooled beneath its hulking body, the metallic scent mingling with the damp aroma of the forest. Jian crouched beside the beast, his hand brushing one of the tusks. ¡°These could fetch a good price back at the sect,¡± he said, tapping the edge of the tusk with his knuckle. ¡°Too bad we can¡¯t drag the whole thing back.¡± ¡°We¡¯ll take what we can use,¡± Tao said, using his sword to dissect the beast. The boar¡¯s hide was tougher than anything Tao had ever cut through, his sword catching and skipping along the metallic fibres. After several tries, he managed to pierce it, revealing dense, Qi infused flesh beneath. A faint warmth pulsed from the meat, and he felt a subtle energy thrumming against his fingers. ¡°Spirit beast meat,¡± Jian said, watching Tao work. ¡°Not as effective as a pill, but it¡¯ll replenish some Qi.¡± Tao nodded, cutting out manageable portions of the meat. The Qi within it was faint, but he could already feel its vitality seeping into his hands as he handled it. ¡°What about a core?¡± Tao asked, glancing toward the beast¡¯s chest. Jian shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s too low tier. Ironhide Boars rarely have cores unless they¡¯re Profound Beasts, and this one wasn¡¯t even close.¡± Still, Tao probed the area out of habit, but as expected, there was no spiritual core. He sighed and moved to the tusks, sawing carefully to remove them while Jian stripped the hide for smaller pieces that could be used later. By the time the work was done, the sun was dipping below the horizon. They carried their spoils, a few slabs of meat wrapped in leaves, the tusks, and strips of hide, until they found a small clearing near a cluster of ancient trees. The area had good visibility and a faint trickle of water nearby, enough to make it a suitable campsite. Tao activated a small Beast Repelling Array, the stones glowing faintly as they hummed with Qi. It wasn¡¯t strong, but it would deter smaller spirit beasts and provide an early warning for anything more dangerous. As Jian prepared the fire, Tao arranged the meat over the flames, the rich aroma filling the air. The Qi within the meat seemed to shimmer faintly as it cooked, infusing the air with a subtle energy. When the meat was ready, they ate in silence. The flesh was tough and gamey, but each bite carried a faint pulse of energy that seeped into their meridians. Tao could feel his Qi slowly replenishing, the exhaustion from the day¡¯s battle easing. Jian leaned back against a tree, closing his eyes as he chewed. ¡°Not bad,¡± he said. ¡°I feel¡­ steadier. Not much, but it helps.¡± Tao nodded, his thoughts turning inward. After finishing his portion, he sat cross legged near the fire, closing his eyes and circulating his Qi. The faint energy from the meat merged with his dantian, steady and stable. He focused on the Unyielding Mountain Spirit, using its first stage to anchor his foundation further, fortifying his reserves for the journey ahead. Jian joined him, his breathing slowing as he entered a meditative state. The faint glow of their Qi illuminated the dark clearing, the fire casting flickering shadows across their still forms. Eventually, Tao climbed up an ancient tree, securing their bedding with vines while Jian cleared the ground below. As Jian settled into his bedding, Tao sat cross legged on a branch, his thoughts drifting. His mind turned to the techniques he had learned and tools he could use to survive this mission. When Jian eventually drifted into sleep, Tao remained seated, his thoughts turning to the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique. He had created it to heal and strengthen plants, but here, in the untamed forest, he wondered if it could be pushed further. Tao extended his Qi toward the ground, feeling the wild energy of the forest pulsing beneath him. Unlike the orderly plants of the sect¡¯s herb garden, the flora here was chaotic, its energy raw and untamed. He concentrated, coaxing the Qi to flow into his meridians. It was like trying to catch water in his hands, slippery and resistant. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he pushed harder, drawing in tiny threads of energy. It wasn¡¯t much, but he felt his Qi stir slightly, replenished by the connection. Encouraged, he tried again, this time directing his Qi outward. He focused on a nearby bush, its leaves trembling as he attempted to manipulate its growth. A single branch shifted, its leaves stretching slightly toward the firelight before stopping. The effort left Tao drained, and he exhaled sharply, his vision swimming. It was possible to manipulate the plants, but the energy was too wild to control easily. Tao leaned back against the tree, closing his eyes. The technique had potential, but it needed refinement and secrecy. Jian didn¡¯t know about this technique, and Tao intended to keep it that way, at least for now. The sounds of the forest grew louder as the night deepened. Distant howls echoed through the trees, mingling with the faint rustle of leaves and the occasional crack of a branch. Tao tightened his grip on his sword, his senses heightened even as exhaustion tugged at him. ¡°This is just the Outer Wilds,¡± he murmured to himself, his gaze fixed on the dark horizon. Beyond lay the Black Hollow Forest, a place where the shadows grew deeper and the beasts more fearsome. For now, he allowed himself a moment of rest, the faint hum of the Beast Repelling Array a fragile comfort in the vast, untamed night. Chapter 27: Labyrinth of the Wilds The path grew narrower as Tao and Jian pressed deeper into the forest. The air was heavy, thick with the cloying scent of damp earth. They had been walking for hours. The trees loomed taller here, their gnarled branches interwoven like a cage that blocked out the sky. What little sunlight seeped through the canopy came in fractured beams, casting shifting patterns on the ground that made every shadow seem alive. ¡°This doesn¡¯t feel right,¡± Jian muttered, his voice low as his hand hovered near his sword. They hadn¡¯t walked much farther when the ground beneath them shifted. A subtle tremor ran through the earth, followed by a deep, guttural groan that seemed to echo from the forest itself. ¡°Move!¡± Tao shouted, leaping to the side just as the earth split open. Roots burst from the ground sending the earth upwards in a shower of soil and dead leaves, The roots writhing like serpents. They coiled and snapped, one of them lashing out toward Jian, who barely managed to parry it with his sword. The roots oozed a thick, black sap that hissed and smoked where it touched the ground. ¡°A trap?¡± Jian asked, his voice strained as he slashed at another root. ¡°No,¡± Tao said, his mind racing. ¡°It¡¯s alive.¡± The ground itself was attacking. Tao¡¯s Qi flared as he activated the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique, directing his energy toward the writhing roots. His intent wasn¡¯t to nourish but to disrupt, forcing his Qi into the chaotic flow of the roots¡¯ energy. The roots hesitated, their movements faltering as they recoiled slightly. ¡°It¡¯s working,¡± he muttered, though the strain was immense. His Qi felt like a fragile thread being pulled taut against the forest¡¯s overwhelming force. ¡°Keep at it,¡± Jian said, darting forward to slice through the weakened roots. After what felt like an eternity, the roots retreated, sinking back into the ground as the forest grew still once more. Tao collapsed to one knee, his breath coming in ragged gasps. ¡°What was that?¡± Jian asked, his eyes scanning the area for any sign of further danger. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Tao admitted, his voice hoarse. ¡°But I hope we don¡¯t encounter it again.¡± They moved cautiously after that, every step deliberate as they wound through the labyrinthine forest. The terrain shifted constantly, one moment, they were walking through dense underbrush, the next, they were wading through knee deep water that reeked of decay. Tao¡¯s mind raced as he considered their situation. His Nurturing Cycle Root Technique had disrupted the roots, but the effort had drained him. Could he adapt the technique further, perhaps to manipulate the forest instead of just resisting it? The idea was tempting but dangerous. The forest¡¯s energy was wild and chaotic, unlike the orderly Qi of cultivated plants. He was also glad that Jian hadn¡¯t asked him about the technique, he had initially planned on developing it in secret, but survival was the priority.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. ¡°Jian,¡± Tao said as they reached a dry patch of ground, ¡°we need to rest. I need to recover my Qi.¡± Jian nodded, though his expression was wary. ¡°Fine. But not here. We need higher ground.¡± They eventually found a small rise, a rocky outcrop overlooking a shallow ravine. It wasn¡¯t ideal, but it offered some visibility. Tao activated a Beast Repelling Array, the stones glowing faintly as the barrier formed around them. As night fell, the forest seemed to come alive with sound. The distant howls of wolves mingled with the chirping of unseen insects and the low, mournful calls of something deeper in the Wilds. Tao sat cross legged, his hands resting on his knees as he entered a meditative state. The faint traces of Qi from the surrounding plants seeped into him, slow and unsteady. He focused on the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique, experimenting with small adjustments to its flow. He extended his Qi outward, touching the roots of a nearby tree. Instead of forcing his energy into it, he tried to mimic the tree¡¯s chaotic rhythm, syncing his Qi with its natural flow. The result was subtle but promising, the tree¡¯s branches shifted slightly, its energy aligning briefly with his own. ¡°I can¡¯t believe that worked,¡± Tao muttered under his breath. ¡°What worked?¡± Jian asked, his eyes still scanning the darkness beyond the barrier. ¡°Nothing,¡± Tao said quickly, not ready to share his experimentation. The night passed uneventfully, though neither of them slept deeply. By morning, the forest was cloaked in mist, the air thick and damp. They moved cautiously; the visibility reduced to a few paces ahead. As they descended into the ravine, the mist grew thicker, its green hue shimmering faintly in the dim light. Tao¡¯s stomach twisted as a low hiss echoed through the ravine. Slowly, a large, elongated shape emerged from the fog. The Verdant Serpent coiled around an ancient tree, its emerald scales shimmering like polished jade. Dark streaks of venom dripped from its fangs. Its eyes glowed with an eerie intelligence, fixed on Tao and Jian as if already calculating its next move. ¡°It¡¯s a Verdant Serpent,¡± Tao whispered, his voice barely audible. Jian¡¯s grip on his sword tightened. ¡°How strong is it?¡± ¡°Mid-tier Spirit Beast,¡± Tao replied, swallowing hard. ¡°Around the 3rd or 4th stage of Qi Condensation. Too strong to fight directly.¡± The serpent uncoiled slightly, its body rippling with power. The air around it seemed to vibrate, the thick mist suffocating and corrosive. Tao could feel his Qi struggling against the oppressive energy. Tao focused his Qi, directing it into the thorny vines growing nearby. The effort left his head spinning, but the vines responded, creeping toward the serpent like living tendrils. The Verdant Serpent hissed, its head snapping toward the movement. It lashed out, its fangs piercing the vines, releasing a spray of venom that withered the plants instantly. But Tao didn¡¯t stop. He guided the remaining vines, weaving them around the serpent¡¯s body. The creature thrashed, its tail smashing into the ground. The vines tightened, their thorns digging into its scales. ¡°Now!¡± Tao shouted, grabbing Jian¡¯s arm as they both activated their movement technique, momentarily disappearing from sight. ¡°The serpent roared, venom dripping from its mouth as it writhed against the entangling vines. It lunged toward them, but the vines held firm for a precious moment, giving Tao and Jian the time they needed to escape. By the time they stopped, they were both gasping for breath. Tao leaned against a tree, his vision swimming from exhaustion. ¡°We can¡¯t keep this up,¡± Jian said, his tone grim. ¡°We don¡¯t have a choice,¡± Tao replied. ¡°The Black Hollow Forest is still ahead.¡± Chapter 28: Spoils of the Fallen
The forest stretched endlessly before them, a maze of misshapen roots and towering trees that seemed to conspire against their sense of direction. Shadows swayed in the fragmented light, their jagged forms twisting.
Tao frowned as he unfolded their map for what felt like the hundredth time, his eyes scanning the faded lines and vague markings.
¡°This doesn¡¯t make sense,¡± he muttered, tilting the map to catch what little light filtered through the canopy.
Jian leaned over his shoulder, his expression tight. ¡°Are we lost?¡±
Tao didn¡¯t answer immediately. The truth was, the map provided by the sect was little more than a rough sketch, its details sparse and unreliable. The dense foliage and shifting terrain made it nearly impossible to match their surroundings to anything on the page.
¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Tao admitted finally, folding the map with a sigh. ¡°The landmarks aren¡¯t clear, and the forest keeps changing. It¡¯s like it has a life of its own.¡±
Jian glanced around, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out. Let¡¯s keep moving. Staying in one place too long isn¡¯t safe.¡±
They pressed on, their footsteps muffled by the thick undergrowth. The shadows grew deeper, and the air seemed to hum with a faint, unsettling energy. Tao¡¯s eyes scanned the ground for any sign of a trail, but the forest offered no clues.
Then, Jian stopped abruptly, holding up a hand. ¡°Do you see that?¡± he asked, his voice low.
Tao followed his gaze and froze. Ahead, half hidden among the roots of a massive tree, was a figure slumped against the trunk. The robes were tattered and stained with blood, but the black and red trim was unmistakable.
¡°Ironwood Tower Sect,¡± Tao whispered, his heart pounding.
They approached cautiously, their senses on high alert. The corpse was that of a young man, his face pale and lifeless, his body marked with puncture wounds and deep, jagged tears where venom had corroded the flesh. Sticky strands of webbing clung to his limbs, and his skin bore faint discolorations, as if the poison had spread through his veins in his final moments. Tao crouched beside him, noting the intricate embroidery on the robes.
¡°He was a core disciple,¡± Tao said, gesturing to the insignia on the man¡¯s sleeve. ¡°At least the sixth stage of Qi Condensation.¡±
Jian whistled softly, his eyes narrowing. ¡°What killed him?¡±This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it
Tao examined the wounds more closely. The wounds were uneven and ragged, marked by punctures and areas where the flesh appeared to have been corroded. It was the kind of damage only venomous fangs and unrelenting force could cause. The forest had claimed its victim, but the exact circumstances remained a mystery.
¡°Whatever it was, it¡¯s not here now,¡± Tao said, though his tone carried little reassurance. ¡°Help me search him.¡±
Jian hesitated for a moment before nodding. Together, they carefully searched the body, their movements swift but methodical.
Tao¡¯s hand brushed against something cool and metallic hidden behind the corpse. He pulled it free, revealing a sword of exceptional craftsmanship. The blade was slightly curved, its surface etched with faint runes that shimmered faintly with Qi.
¡°A core disciple¡¯s sword,¡± Jian said, his voice tinged with envy. ¡°Far better than the standard weapons we were issued.¡±
Tao set the sword aside, continuing his search. His fingers closed around a small, worn pouch tied to the man¡¯s belt. Inside, he found a jade slip and a thin booklet.
Suddenly, his eye caught a faint glimmer on the man''s hand. Leaning closer, he discovered a small storage ring, its surface etched with faint, intricate patterns.
¡°A storage ring,¡± Tao murmured, holding it up to inspect.
Jian¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Low grade, but still¡­ that¡¯s a rare find.¡±
Tao slipped the ring onto his finger, his Qi brushing against it to reveal the small space within. There wasn¡¯t much inside, just a few Qi replenishing pills, low grade healing pills and a handful of spirit stones, but the utility of the ring was undeniable.
¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Jian asked, nodding toward the booklet Tao had emptied out of the pouch earlier.
Tao opened it, revealing neatly inscribed characters detailing a sword technique. He recognized it immediately, it was the Ironwood Tower Sect¡¯s signature technique, a higher-grade version than anything they had access to as inner disciples.
¡°There¡¯s also a cultivation method,¡± Tao said, holding up a jade slip. He feigned interest, though inwardly he felt a flicker of relief. His own cultivation path, gifted by the Jade Mountain, far surpassed anything this slip could offer. But he couldn¡¯t let Jian suspect.
Jian eyed the items, his expression torn between curiosity and greed. ¡°How do we split it?¡±
Tao considered for a moment. ¡°The sword is better than anything we have. You take it. I¡¯ll keep the storage ring. We can split the rest later¡±
Jian nodded slowly, his hand reaching for the sword. ¡°Fair trade.¡±
Tao handed it over without hesitation, storing the jade slip and the booklet into his new storage ring. ¡°There¡¯s something else,¡± he said, unfolding a map he had found on the corpse.
The map was far more detailed than their own, its markings precise and intricate. Tao¡¯s eyes scanned the lines, his brow furrowing as he noticed a marked location not far from their current position.
¡°This might help us get back on track,¡± Tao said, showing it to Jian. ¡°There¡¯s a spot marked here. It¡¯s close.¡±
Jian studied the map, his expression sceptical. ¡°Could be dangerous.¡±
¡°Could also be useful,¡± Tao countered.
After a moment, Jian nodded. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s take a look.¡±
They rose and set off toward the marked location. The forest seemed to press closer around them, its energy thick and oppressive. Tao¡¯s mind raced with questions. What had killed the core disciple? And what awaited them at the marked site?
As they moved, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the Wilds were watching, their unseen eyes judging every step they took. Chapter 29: The Price of a Fruitful Bounty
The forest seemed to thrum with anticipation as Tao and Jian moved closer to the marked location. The air grew thicker, charged with a faint, unnatural energy that set Tao¡¯s nerves on edge. The map had been guiding them toward what seemed like a clearing, but the dense canopy made it impossible to see ahead. As they rounded a massive tree, the scene before them froze them in their tracks.
Two huge spiders lay sprawled across the ground, their big bodies pierced through with deep, precise sword wounds. Their sleek black carapaces shimmered faintly in the dim light, their legs curled inward in death. Tao felt a shiver run down his spine as he took in the size of them, each one easily twice the height of a man.
¡°Illusion Spinning Spiders,¡± Jian whispered, his voice tinged with awe.
Tao¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°High order Spirit Beasts.¡±
¡°They can trap prey in illusions,¡± Jian added, stepping closer cautiously. ¡°But they¡¯re already dead. Someone else killed them.¡±
Tao nodded, his gaze shifting to the wounds. The strikes were clean and deliberate, the work of a skilled swordsman. ¡°This has to be the Ironwood Tower Sect. Only a core disciple at the peak of Qi Condensation could handle something like this.¡±
Jian crouched beside one of the spiders, his hand brushing against its segmented abdomen. ¡°If the cores are intact, this is a fortune.¡±
The thought sent a thrill through Tao. High order Spirit Beast cores were rare treasures, packed with concentrated Qi that could aid cultivation or be sold for an exorbitant price. Tao quickly joined Jian, their movements swift as they began harvesting the beasts.
The first core came free with a soft, glowing pulse, its green light swirling faintly in Tao¡¯s palm. He passed it to Jian, who carefully wrapped it in a piece of cloth before stowing it in his satchel. The second core was slightly larger, its light a deeper shade of green, and Jian handed it to Tao with a grin.
¡°Save them for later,¡± Jian said, glancing around. ¡°We don¡¯t want to attract attention by using them now.¡±
Tao slipped the core into the storage ring, feeling the faint hum of energy as it joined the other items they had collected. They worked quickly, stripping the spiders of their venom sacs and a few sections of their carapaces, which could be used for crafting armour or weapons.
¡°This confirms it,¡± Jian said as they finished. ¡°The Ironwood Tower Sect is here, and whatever they¡¯re after must be important.¡±
They pressed on, the tension between them mounting as the forest grew eerily silent. It wasn¡¯t long before they stumbled upon the next grim discovery.
Two more figures hung suspended in thick, silken webs strung between the trees. Their bodies were limp, their robes bearing the same black and red trim. Tao¡¯s stomach twisted as he approached cautiously, the faint smell of blood mingling with the acrid scent of spider venom.
¡°They didn¡¯t make it,¡± Jian said grimly, his eyes scanning the area.
Tao nodded, his gaze lingering on the webs. The disciples had been ensnared completely, their possessions still visible through the translucent strands. He hesitated, then spoke. ¡°We should check them. If they were core disciples, they might have something useful.¡±The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.
Jian frowned but didn¡¯t argue. Together, they worked to free the bodies from the webs, their hands careful not to disturb the sticky strands more than necessary.
The first disciple carried a standard sword, its craftsmanship decent but unremarkable compared to the blade they had found earlier. The second held a spear with faint etchings along the shaft, its head gleaming with a dull sheen of Qi infused metal.
¡°They¡¯re not as important as the first one we found,¡± Jian said, his tone matter-of-fact. ¡°Their equipment¡¯s lower quality.¡±
Tao picked up the sword, testing its weight. It was slightly better than his own, and he could feel a faint resonance of Qi within the blade. Jian handed him the spear as well, gesturing toward the storage ring.
¡°Keep everything in the ring for now,¡± Jian said. ¡°We¡¯ll split it all fairly once we¡¯re out of here.¡±
Tao nodded, slipping the items into the ring alongside the spider cores and venom sacs. The faint hum of the storage ring¡¯s energy was a constant reminder of their growing spoils, but it also weighed heavily on Tao¡¯s mind. The Wilds had a way of turning fortune into misfortune in the blink of an eye.
As they continued, the forest began to change. The air grew heavier, the trees thinning slightly to reveal glimpses of crumbling stone structures ahead. Tao¡¯s heart quickened as they approached, the outline of ancient ruins becoming clearer with each step.
The ruins were vast, their broken columns and faded carvings half swallowed by the encroaching forest. In the centre stood a lone tree, its bark smooth and silver, its branches heavy with luminous fruits that glowed faintly in the dim light.
Tao and Jian stopped; their eyes fixed on the tree. The fruits were mesmerizing, their light pulsing softly as though alive.
¡°They¡¯re extraordinary,¡± Jian murmured, stepping closer. ¡°The Qi they¡¯re radiating¡­ it¡¯s incredible.¡±
Tao nodded, his mind racing. If the fruits contained even a fraction of the energy they seemed to, they could be invaluable for their cultivation. But the ruins felt charged with something ancient and watchful, and he hesitated.
Jian¡¯s voice broke his thoughts. ¡°Look at this.¡±
Tao followed his gaze to a series of carvings on one of the crumbling walls. The images depicted figures harvesting the fruits with careful, deliberate movements, their hands forming precise seals. Beneath the carvings, a faint inscription explained the process in a language Tao could just barely decipher.
¡°It¡¯s a technique,¡± Tao said, tracing the symbols with his fingers. ¡°To harvest the fruits without damaging them.¡±
They practiced the motions carefully, mimicking the seals shown in the carvings. It was harder than they expected. Their hands trembled with each attempt, and the fruits, as if sensing their inexperience, seemed to resist their touch. Every time they thought they had the technique right, the fruit would slip from their grasp, or its light would flare too brightly, warning them away.
Frustration mounted, but they didn¡¯t give up. They adjusted their movements, slowing their breathing, and focused on the rhythm of the seals. Finally, after what felt like an eternity of failed attempts, Tao¡¯s hand closed around a fruit. Its light flared briefly before dimming, its energy settling into his palm. He held it with trembling fingers, his heart racing.
He passed it to Jian, who looked at it in awe before returning it to Tao, signalling for him to store it in the storage ring.
They continued their efforts, but the fruits seemed to grow even more elusive, as if the tree itself was testing them. In the end, after countless failed attempts, they managed to secure only one more fruit, its radiant glow barely a flicker in the growing darkness.
The energy radiating from the fruits was intoxicating, but Tao couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this success had come at a steep cost. This mission might yield more than they had ever imagined, but the price of each fruit felt far heavier than anticipated.
Just as they were beginning to relax, a shadow fell over them. Tao froze, his blood running cold as an enormous shape descended from above. Chapter 30: Echoes of the Past The spider was massive, its black carapace glinting in the faint light. Its eyes glowed like embers, and its fangs dripped with venom that sizzled as it hit the ground. Tao barely had time to react before a web shot out, ensnaring him in sticky, unyielding strands. Jian shouted, his sword flashing as he tried to free Tao, but another web struck him, pinning him to the ground. The spider loomed closer, its movements deliberate and menacing. Tao struggled against the webs, his heart pounding as the creature¡¯s shadow engulfed them. The ruins and their hard-won spoils faded from his mind as he slowly drifted into a world of illusions. Tao''s mind was awash with colours and sounds, a haze of warmth and familiarity that felt too vivid to question. He found himself standing in a small courtyard bathed in golden sunlight, the laughter of a child echoing through the air. His younger self ran barefoot across the cobblestones, a carefree smile lighting up his face as he chased a fluttering paper kite. ¡°Tao, come inside!¡± His mother¡¯s voice was soft but carried the weight of unshakable authority. She stood by the doorway, her figure framed by the warm glow of the house¡¯s hearth. Her hair was tied neatly, her face a portrait of maternal pride as she waved him in. Inside, his father stood beside a table, its surface worn smooth from years of use. A faintly glowing lamp cast a warm light over the room, illuminating the neat arrangement of herbs spread across the table. Bundles of dried leaves and delicate flowers were laid out in precise rows, and a small mortar and pestle rested beside an open scroll filled with detailed herbal formulas. His father¡¯s weathered hands moved with deliberate care, grinding a mixture of herbs into a fine powder while occasionally jotting notes onto a scrap of parchment. The sharp, earthy scent of crushed leaves mingled with the faint aroma of the evening meal still lingering in the air. When Tao entered, his father glanced up, his stern face framed by streaks of silver in his dark hair. The hard lines of his expression softened into a rare smile, his sharp eyes gleaming with quiet pride. ¡°Tao,¡± he said, setting down the pestle, ¡°one day, you¡¯ll bring honour to our family. With your spirit roots, you¡¯ll rise above us all, higher than anything these hands have ever built.¡±This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. The memory shifted. Tao was older now, kneeling before his parents with his first cultivation manual in hand. His mother¡¯s eyes sparkled with pride, and his father¡¯s firm hand rested on his shoulder. ¡°You are our hope,¡± his father said, his voice steady and filled with conviction. ¡°With your talent, our family will thrive.¡± But then the warmth began to fade. The courtyard grew colder, the sunlight dimming as another voice echoed in the distance. ¡°Tao¡¯s talent is average at best, but the younger brother¡¯s spirit roots are exceptional,¡± an unfamiliar man said. Tao turned and saw a robed figure standing before his parents, his brother beside him. His brother was barely ten, his expression timid but eager. The robed man smiled. ¡°The Golden Flame Sect will take him far. With proper guidance, he could surpass anyone from a small place like this.¡± Tao¡¯s chest tightened as the scene shifted again. His brother, now a teenager, stood tall in robes of gold and crimson, his presence exuding confidence. Their parents stood beside him, their expressions filled with pride that Tao hadn¡¯t seen directed at him in years. ¡°You¡¯ll understand, Tao,¡± his father said one evening, his tone heavy with forced sympathy. ¡°Your brother¡¯s potential is extraordinary. The resources must go where they¡¯re needed most.¡± Tao watched himself fade into the background, a shadow in his own family. His meals became smaller, his requests for resources met with excuses. His parents¡¯ praise, once a constant, now reserved for his brother. The resentment simmered, unspoken but palpable. Another scene flickered to life; a memory Tao had buried deeply. His brother, older now, visiting the family estate during a sect break. ¡°You¡¯re still at the first layer of Qi Condensation?¡± his brother had asked, his tone light but cutting. ¡°No wonder Father stopped wasting resources on you. It¡¯s a shame, really. You had potential once.¡± The words echoed in Tao¡¯s mind, a bitter chorus that stirred anger and hurt. He clenched his fists, his Qi flaring instinctively. The courtyard blurred, the warmth replaced by a cold, suffocating darkness. ¡°Tao,¡± a voice whispered, familiar yet distant. It wasn¡¯t his mother or father. It wasn¡¯t his brother. It was the Jade Mountain. A pulse of energy reverberated through him, shattering the illusion like glass. Tao gasped, his senses flooding back as the oppressive warmth of the forest replaced the false comfort of the memory. Chapter 31: The Brink of Death The Illusion Spinning Spider loomed over Tao, its eight crimson eyes gleaming with malice, its massive legs crushing the ancient stones beneath it. The oppressive stench of venom and decay filled the air, clawing at Tao¡¯s senses as he fought against the sticky webbing that bound him. His chest heaved, blood dripping from his lips as he glared at the beast, the weight of exhaustion and pain pressing down on him like an iron shroud. The spider hissed, its fangs clicking together as it lunged, venom spraying in a deadly arc. Tao twisted his body, ripping through the webbing with sheer force, the sharp strands cutting into his arms and legs. He hit the ground hard, the impact jarring his already battered ribs. ¡°Not here,¡± Tao growled through gritted teeth, his vision blurring as he forced himself to his feet. ¡°I won¡¯t die here.¡± The spider reared back, its carapace glinting like obsidian in the faint light. Tao¡¯s sword felt like a fragile stick in his hands, but he tightened his grip, channelling the last reserves of his Qi into the blade. ¡°Raging Waves Sword Art!¡± he roared, his voice raw with desperation. The sword vibrated in his hands, its edge glowing with a violent, undulating energy. Tao dashed forward, his movements fuelled by a primal defiance. The spider struck first, one of its legs crashing down with enough force to crack the ground. Tao sidestepped, his Qi enhanced speed barely carrying him clear of the impact. He slashed upward, his blade slicing through the joint of the spider¡¯s leg. A spurt of black ichor sprayed from the wound, and the spider screeched, the sound piercing and inhuman. Tao staggered back, his breathing ragged as pain lanced through his side. The spider retaliated with terrifying speed, its fangs snapping inches from Tao¡¯s face. He rolled to the side, his vision swimming as the world tilted around him. The Raging Waves Sword Art surged again, the chaotic energy spilling out of his blade as he struck wildly at the creature¡¯s legs. Each blow chipped at the spider¡¯s carapace, leaving faint cracks and shallow wounds, but it wasn¡¯t enough. The beast roared, its venom spraying in all directions. Tao cried out as a drop seared his arm, the pain blinding as his flesh sizzled. ¡°Tao!¡±Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Jian¡¯s voice cut through the chaos, weak but alive. Tao turned to see his companion stirring, his sword gripped tightly in one trembling hand. The spider noticed too, its eyes narrowing as it shifted its focus. ¡°No!¡± Tao shouted, pushing himself between Jian and the beast. The spider lunged again, its massive fangs aiming straight for Tao¡¯s chest. He swung his sword with everything he had, the Raging Waves Sword Art flaring to its peak. The blade collided with the spider¡¯s head, a deafening crack splitting the air as the impact shattered his sword into fragments. The force of the blow sent Tao flying backward, his body slamming into a crumbling pillar. He collapsed to the ground, coughing up blood as his vision darkened. His hands clawed at the dirt, his body refusing to give up even as it screamed in agony. Jian, his face pale and streaked with blood, rose shakily to his feet. ¡°You¡¯re not dying here,¡± he growled, stepping forward to face the spider. The beast hissed, its venom dripping fangs gleaming as it bore down on him. Jian slashed at its legs; his strikes precise but lacking the force to break through its armour. The spider retaliated with a swipe of its leg, sending Jian crashing into the ruins. Jian groaned, blood pouring from a deep gash across his chest. His sword clattered to the ground as he struggled to rise, his body trembling with the effort. The spider loomed over them both, its massive form blocking out the faint light of the forest. Tao¡¯s fingers dug into the dirt as he tried to crawl forward, his mind a haze of pain and fury. Just as the spider raised its fangs for the killing blow, a piercing screech tore through the air. Tao¡¯s head snapped up, his blurred vision catching the shape of a massive bird like creature descending from the canopy. The Copperwing Vulture was a high order Spirit Beast, its coppery feathers shimmering like molten metal. Its talons, long and razor sharp, glinted as it dove straight for the spider. The spider turned, its screeching cry filled with rage as it faced the new threat. The vulture¡¯s claws raked across its back, tearing deep gouges into the carapace. The spider lashed out with its legs, venom spraying in wide arcs as the two beasts clashed violently. Jian staggered to Tao¡¯s side, his face pale and bloodied. ¡°We¡­ we have to move,¡± he gasped, grabbing Tao¡¯s arm. Tao¡¯s body screamed in protest as Jian hauled him to his feet. His vision swam, but he forced himself to focus, leaning heavily on Jian as they stumbled away from the ruins. Behind them, the battle raged, the vulture¡¯s screeches and the spider¡¯s roars echoing through the forest. The two barely made it out of the clearing before collapsing against a fallen tree. Tao¡¯s breath came in ragged gasps, his chest burning with every inhale. Jian slumped beside him, his blood soaked clothes sticking to his skin. ¡°We¡­ we shouldn¡¯t have made it,¡± Jian said, his voice shaking They had survived, but at what cost? The Wilds had stripped them to the bone, and the Black Hollow Forest still lay ahead. Chapter 32: Tides of Fate Wei sat cross legged in the dim confines of the cultivation chamber, the faint hum of Qi filling the still air. A smirk tugged at his lips as the power of the third layer of Qi Condensation coursed through his meridians. Though insignificant to the core disciples, to Wei, it was a hard-earned victory, a step closer to proving his worth. ¡°Tao,¡± he hissed, his voice barely above a whisper, yet sharp with venom. Each syllable dripped with simmering resentment. ¡°You¡¯ll regret the day you dared to look down on me.¡± Rising in a single fluid motion, Wei adjusted his robes, his movements precise and deliberate. Arrogance radiated from his posture, but his sharp eyes betrayed the careful calculations running through his mind. Sliding open the chamber door, he stepped into the bustling sect grounds. Disciples hurried past him, their chatter blending with the distant clang of sparring weapons. Wei ignored them, his focus singular: Tao. The Herb Pavilion loomed ahead, its familiar scent of dried herbs and incense stirring his simmering anger. Wei approached the attendants with barely veiled impatience. ¡°Where is Tao?¡± he demanded, his voice cutting through the pavilion¡¯s tranquil hum. One attendant glanced up, unimpressed. ¡°Gone on a mission to the Wilds.¡± Wei froze, his smirk vanishing. ¡°Gone?¡± The word felt like a curse, his frustration boiling beneath the surface. ¡°Yes,¡± the attendant replied curtly, already turning back to their work. Wei¡¯s fists clenched as he strode away, his thoughts churning. Tao¡¯s absence was an affront, a delay in his plans for revenge. His steps quickened as he sought out Yun Fei. Near the mission board, Yun Fei stood amidst the chaos of jostling disciples, his calm detachment setting him apart. He leaned lazily against a wooden post, his gaze flicking over the assignments as if they were beneath him. When Wei approached, Yun Fei didn¡¯t turn, merely tilting his head to acknowledge him. ¡°Ah, Wei,¡± he drawled, a sly smile curving his lips. ¡°You look¡­ frustrated.¡± ¡°Tao is gone,¡± Wei snapped, his tone clipped. ¡°What¡¯s your plan for when he returns?¡± Yun Fei chuckled, his voice smooth as silk. ¡°Oh, I¡¯ve laid a trap for our dear Tao. The Wilds will bleed him dry, and when he stumbles back, exhausted and vulnerable, we¡¯ll finish what you started.¡± Wei¡¯s eyes narrowed. Yun Fei¡¯s smug confidence grated on him. ¡°And if he survives stronger than before?¡± Yun Fei¡¯s grin faltered for a fraction of a second before returning, though less assured. ¡°Stronger or not, the ambush will break him.¡±This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Wei¡¯s gaze hardened. Yun Fei was a fool, blind to Tao¡¯s resilience. If Tao survived the Wilds, he wouldn¡¯t return weaker. Wei turned back to the mission board, scanning the tasks with renewed determination. His eyes landed on one marked with a red talisman: Hunt a Thunder Horn Stag. The details promised a significant reward, spirit stones, rare herbs, and the beast¡¯s core, a treasure that could accelerate his cultivation. Without hesitation, Wei tore the jade plaque from the board. His fingers tightened around it as he whispered, ¡°Tao, you won¡¯t outpace me. Not this time.¡± Meanwhile, in the Hall of Resolve, the elders gathered, their faces tense as they studied the report laid out before them. The room was dim, lit only by the faint glow of jade orbs suspended above the polished stone table. Elder Hua¡¯s sharp eyes scanned the parchment, her lips pressed into a thin line. ¡°Increased activity from the Ironwood Tower Sect,¡± she said, her tone clipped. ¡°They¡¯ve been spotted deeper in the Wilds, accompanied by cultivators we don¡¯t recognize.¡± Elder Jianyu frowned, his broad shoulders stiffening. ¡°Stronger allies, no doubt. They¡¯re searching for something significant.¡± Elder Mei tapped her fingers against the table, her pristine robes a stark contrast to the sombre atmosphere. ¡°Ancient legacies, most likely. If they find what they¡¯re looking for, it could shift the balance of power in the region.¡± Hua nodded grimly. ¡°And if they do, we won¡¯t stand a chance.¡± The elders fell silent, the weight of the situation pressing down on them. The doors to the hall creaked open, and a wave of pressure swept through the room. The patriarch, Yu Tian, stepped inside, his presence commanding and unshakable. Yu Tian was tall, his robes of deep green embroidered with golden threads that shimmered like flowing rivers. His long silver hair fell to his waist, and his piercing eyes seemed to see through the very fabric of reality. A faint aura of boundless Qi surrounded him, the air around him rippling as if unable to contain his power. The elders rose, bowing deeply as he approached. ¡°Patriarch,¡± Hua said, her voice steady despite the palpable tension in the room. Yu Tian¡¯s gaze swept over them, his expression calm but inscrutable. ¡°I¡¯ve read the report,¡± he said, his voice deep and resonant. ¡°Your concerns are valid. The Ironwood Tower Sect¡¯s actions are not their own.¡± Jianyu¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°You mean they¡¯re being backed by a stronger sect?¡± Yu Tian nodded. ¡°The signs are clear. Their movements are too calculated, their resources too abundant for a sect of their size. This is the work of a larger force, testing the waters.¡± ¡°What should we do?¡± Mei asked, her tone cautious. Yu Tian¡¯s gaze hardened. ¡°We tread carefully. Open conflict would invite disaster, but we cannot allow them to grow unchecked. Elder Hua, identify the disciples with the greatest potential and accelerate their training. Elder Jianyu, prepare a covert team of core disciples to disrupt their efforts in the Wilds. Elder Mei, strengthen our alliances and gather intelligence on their backers.¡± The elders nodded, their resolve solidifying under Yu Tian¡¯s guidance. ¡°Remember,¡± Yu Tian said, his tone sharp, ¡°the Verdant Dawn Sect has weathered storms before. But to survive this, we must be unified, vigilant, and unrelenting.¡± As the patriarch turned to leave, his parting words hung in the air like a solemn vow. ¡°The Wilds are only the beginning. The true storm is yet to come.¡± He strode out of the hall, the oppressive weight of his presence lifting only after the doors closed behind him. The elders exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of unease and determination. The patriarch¡¯s words had left no room for doubt, the time for hesitation was over. Chapter 33: Wounded Resolve Tao stumbled forward, his legs barely carrying him as the jagged underbrush clawed at his torn robes. Every breath burned in his chest, each step a fresh wave of agony. Jian was at his side, blood dripping from a gash across his forehead, his sword dangling loosely in his hand. They moved in silence, their focus solely on survival as the shadows of the forest pressed closer. ¡°Keep moving,¡± Jian muttered, his voice hoarse. His usually light hearted tone was replaced by grim determination. Tao nodded weakly, his body screaming for rest. The forest seemed alive with malice, each rustling leaf and snapping twig sending a jolt of tension through their battered forms. Ahead, a cluster of boulders loomed, half covered in creeping vines. Tao squinted, his vision swimming, and realized the rocks concealed the entrance to a small cave. He pointed, his voice barely above a whisper. ¡°There.¡± Jian followed his gaze, and together they staggered toward the shelter. The cave was shallow but dry, its walls damp with condensation. Tao collapsed against the rough stone, his head lolling back as he fought to steady his breathing. Jian leaned his sword against the wall and crouched at the entrance, scanning the area before dragging a few stones into place to partially block the opening. ¡°It¡¯s not much,¡± Jian said, sinking to the ground beside Tao. ¡°But it¡¯ll have to do.¡± Tao fumbled for the storage ring on his finger, his Qi sluggish as he retrieved the low grade healing pills they had taken from the Ironwood Tower Sect disciples. He handed one to Jian before swallowing his own, the bitter taste sharp against his dry throat. The pill¡¯s effects were immediate, a faint warmth spreading through his meridians, dulling the worst of the pain. For a moment, neither of them spoke, the quiet filled only by their laboured breathing. Tao closed his eyes, his body slipping into a meditative state as he guided the pill¡¯s energy to his injuries. The Unyielding Mountain Spirit technique anchored him, its steady rhythm a lifeline amidst the chaos. But the stillness brought no peace. Images from the illusion spun through Tao¡¯s mind, his father¡¯s proud smile, his mother¡¯s quiet dismissal, his brother¡¯s cutting words. The warmth of the past felt like a cruel joke now, the pain of neglect and resentment a wound that refused to heal.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. ¡°You saw something, didn¡¯t you?¡± Jian¡¯s voice broke the silence, low and cautious. Tao opened his eyes, his gaze fixed on the cave¡¯s shadowed ceiling. ¡°The illusion... it showed me my family.¡± His voice was flat, devoid of the emotion roiling within. ¡°Things I¡¯ve tried to forget.¡± Jian nodded slowly, his own expression darkening. ¡°I saw something too.¡± Tao turned to him, surprised. Jian rarely spoke of his past. But now, his shoulders sagged under an invisible weight, and his eyes were clouded with a distant pain. ¡°I was raised in the sect,¡± Jian began, his voice quieter than usual. ¡°I don¡¯t remember my parents. They say they died when I was an infant, caught in some conflict between rival merchants. The sect took me in, gave me a place to grow, to learn. But...¡± He trailed off, his jaw tightening. Tao waited, sensing the struggle in Jian¡¯s words. ¡°In the illusion,¡± Jian continued, ¡°I saw them. My parents. I don¡¯t know if it was real or just something the spider pulled from my mind, but... it felt real.¡± His hands clenched into fists, his knuckles white. ¡°They were alive, smiling, holding me like I mattered. Like I belonged somewhere.¡± The silence that followed was heavy, broken only by the distant calls of unseen creatures. ¡°It¡¯s cruel,¡± Jian said finally, his voice bitter. ¡°To show you something you can never have. Something you didn¡¯t even know you wanted.¡± Tao didn¡¯t reply immediately. His mind churned with his own memories, the illusion¡¯s images cutting deeper than he cared to admit. ¡°It¡¯s not just cruel,¡± he said eventually. ¡°It¡¯s a reminder. Of what we¡¯ve lost. Of what we¡¯re still fighting for.¡± Jian gave him a piercing look, ¡°You always have a way of putting things in perspective.¡± They lapsed into silence again, the weight of their shared pain settling between them like an unspoken bond. As the healing pill¡¯s energy worked through his body, Tao forced himself to sit up, wincing as his ribs protested. ¡°We can¡¯t stay here long,¡± he said, his voice firmer now. ¡°We¡¯re too exposed.¡± Jian nodded, his hand brushing the hilt of his sword. ¡°We¡¯ll move at first light. But for now, we rest.¡± Tao agreed, leaning back against the cave wall. Despite the ache in his body and the turmoil in his mind, a faint flicker of determination burned within him. The Wilds had tested them, but they were still alive. And as long as they drew breath, they would continue forward. The forest outside whispered with unseen threats, but for now, the cave was their sanctuary. Tao closed his eyes, the faint hum of the Unyielding Mountain Spirit grounding him as he prepared for whatever lay ahead. Chapter 34: Rest and Resolve Tao stirred, his body screaming in protest as he shifted against the rough stone floor. Every movement sent fresh waves of pain coursing through him, a harsh reminder of the battle with the Illusion Spinning Spider. He groaned softly, his fingers brushing against his side, where the venom¡¯s burn had left an angry welt despite the healing pills. Beside him, Jian let out a low groan as he sat up, wincing. His face was pale, streaked with dried blood from the gash on his forehead. ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve been trampled by an Ironhide Boar,¡± he muttered, his voice rough. Tao gave a weak chuckle, though it hurt to laugh. ¡°You look worse than that.¡± Jian smirked faintly, but the expression quickly faded as he took in their surroundings. The cave¡¯s dim light revealed the harsh lines of its rocky walls, and the faint smell of damp earth clung to the air. The only sounds were their own labored breaths and the occasional distant screech of a beast outside. ¡°We¡¯ll need to stay here a while,¡± Tao said, forcing himself to sit up. His voice was steady despite the pain. ¡°We¡¯re in no shape to move far, and looking for another shelter is too dangerous.¡± Jian nodded, leaning back against the wall. ¡°Agreed. But we¡¯ll need to keep the beasts out. You have anything left for an array?¡± Tao fumbled with the storage ring on his finger, his Qi sluggish as he activated it. After a moment, he retrieved the stones needed for a basic Beast Repelling Array. Dragging himself to the cave entrance, he arranged the stones in a precise pattern, their faint hum forming a fragile barrier. ¡°It won¡¯t stop anything strong,¡± Tao said as he limped back to his spot, ¡°but it should keep smaller beasts away.¡± Jian exhaled deeply, his hand brushing the hilt of his sword. ¡°Better than nothing. Now, let¡¯s see what we¡¯ve got.¡± They carefully laid out their spoils on the cave floor. Tao retrieved the fruits they had harvested from the tree, their faint glow casting eerie patterns on the stone. Beside them, he placed the spider cores, their dense energy radiating an oppressive heat. ¡°These fruits...¡± Jian murmured, picking one up and holding it to the light. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen anything like them. The Qi inside is incredible.¡± ¡°Too incredible,¡± Tao said, his tone cautious. ¡°We don¡¯t know what they¡¯ll do. If the Qi is too wild or impure, it could cripple us instead of helping.¡± Jian set the fruit down reluctantly. ¡°Fair point. What about the cores?¡± Tao shook his head. ¡°We¡¯d need a purification technique to safely draw Qi from them. Without one, we¡¯d risk damaging our foundations.¡± ¡°Great,¡± Jian muttered. ¡°All this treasure, and we can¡¯t use any of it.¡± Tao smirked faintly. ¡°Not yet.¡± They stored the fruits and cores back in the ring, turning their attention to the sword and techniques they had taken from the Ironwood Tower Sect disciples. Jian picked up the blade, running his fingers over its etched runes. ¡°This sword is better than anything we¡¯ve got,¡± Jian said, testing its balance with a few light swings. ¡°You should take it.¡±Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. Tao blinked in surprise. ¡°We already agreed you would take it. You should keep it.¡± Jian shook his head, his expression firm. ¡°Your sword shattered in the fight, and you¡¯re the one who keeps pulling us out of trouble. Take it. Call it an investment in our survival.¡± Tao hesitated, then nodded, taking the blade. Its weight felt perfect in his hand, and the faint hum of Qi within it resonated with his own energy. ¡°Thank you,¡± he said quietly. ¡°Don¡¯t thank me,¡± Jian said with a grin. ¡°Just don¡¯t break this one.¡± They turned their attention to the techniques next. Jian examined the Ironwood Tower Sect¡¯s sword manual, his eyes narrowing as he read the intricate diagrams and descriptions. ¡°This technique is advanced,¡± Jian said, his tone tinged with admiration. ¡°If we adapt some of these principles, we could elevate our own sword arts.¡± Tao nodded, though his mind was already racing with possibilities. The fluid, precise movements described in the manual could complement his Raging Waves Sword Art, adding a layer of unpredictability to its chaotic strikes. Jian then picked up the jade slip containing the sect¡¯s cultivation method. He hesitated. Unlike the sword techniques, which could be adapted, a cultivation method shaped the very foundation of a cultivator¡¯s strength. His current technique, the one he had trained in since childhood, was already showing its limitations. Tao noticed his hesitation. ¡°You should take it,¡± he said quickly. ¡°It¡¯s better than the basic method we were taught.¡± Jian¡¯s grip on the jade slip tightened. ¡°What about you?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve got my own path,¡± Tao said. ¡°This one suits you better.¡± Jian studied the slip in his hands, a deep frown settling on his face. He had known for some time that his cultivation was progressing too slowly. His cultivation method was inferior to the core members of his sect. The fight with the Illusion Spinning Spider had made that painfully clear, his Qi reserves had drained too quickly, and his recovery had been sluggish. If they faced another beast of that level, he might not survive. But taking a stolen technique from another sect was dangerous. Some sects built traps into their methods, ensuring that anyone who cultivated them without proper guidance would cripple themselves. Worse, if the Ironwood Tower Sect ever found out, they would be marked as thieves. Still¡­ he had no choice. His jaw tightened. ¡°If I don¡¯t do this, I¡¯ll be holding us back.¡± Tao met his gaze, silent for a moment before nodding. ¡°Then be careful. Test it first. If anything feels off, stop immediately.¡± Jian took a deep breath and closed his eyes, guiding a thread of Qi through the first circulation path described in the jade slip. At first, everything felt smooth, but then, a sudden jolt of resistance made his breath hitch. It was like pushing against a locked door. He clenched his jaw and forced his Qi through. Pain flared in his meridians, sharp and searing, but after a few moments, it faded. His Qi felt¡­ different. He could already sense a slight improvement in efficiency. He exhaled slowly. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ manageable. Just different.¡± Tao studied him. ¡°Are you sure?¡± Jian nodded. ¡°It¡¯s risky, but it¡¯s better than staying weak.¡± The hours passed in quiet recovery. Tao meditated, guiding the energy from the healing pill through his meridians to repair the worst of his injuries. The Unyielding Mountain Spirit technique steadied his mind, its slow, rhythmic flow grounding him amidst the chaos of the Wilds. Jian practiced the Ironwood Tower Sect cultivation method in small increments, careful not to push too far. The initial resistance in his meridians lessened with each attempt, and his Qi felt more refined, more controlled. He also studied the sword manual, his movements growing more precise as he tested the principles described within. Tao joined him, the new sword in his hand as he experimented with blending the manual¡¯s techniques into his Raging Waves Sword Art. The blade moved with a new fluidity, each strike flowing seamlessly into the next. By the time the sun began to set, they were both exhausted but stronger. The cave was still, the faint hum of the array their only companion. ¡°We¡¯ve made progress,¡± Jian said, leaning back against the wall. Tao nodded, his grip tightening on the hilt of his new sword. ¡°But the Wilds aren¡¯t done with us yet.¡± Jian grinned faintly, his eyes gleaming with determination. ¡°Good. Let them come.¡± Chapter 35: Refining Strength Tao sat cross legged, his breathing steady but shallow. Though the battle was behind them, its toll lingered in the deep aches of his muscles and the sluggish flow of Qi in his meridians. Across from him, Jian flexed his fingers, testing his strength. He still felt weak, but the worst had passed. The silence between them stretched until Jian finally spoke. ¡°We need to get stronger.¡± His voice was quiet but firm. Tao nodded. ¡°I know.¡± Jian leaned forward, his eyes flicking to Tao¡¯s hand. ¡°Take them out.¡± Tao hesitated, then reached into his storage ring. A moment later, he pulled out the beast cores and the fruits they had risked their lives for. The air between them seemed to hum as the potent energy within the items filled the cave. The fruits, still gleaming with golden light, pulsed softly, while the cores, dark, crystalline spheres, radiated an eerie pressure. Jian picked up one of the fruits, rolling it between his fingers. ¡°How long do you think these will last before they spoil?¡± Tao studied the fruit. ¡°Days? A week at most? The Qi inside is still vibrant, but it will start to leak away eventually.¡± Jian frowned. ¡°Then we don¡¯t have much time.¡± ¡°We also don¡¯t have much choice.¡± Tao met his gaze. ¡°If we eat them now, our bodies won¡¯t handle the intensity. It would be like trying to contain a flood in a cracked pot.¡± Jian exhaled sharply. ¡°Then what about the cores?¡± He picked one up, feeling its cool surface. ¡°Beast cores can be refined into Qi, right?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Tao admitted, ¡°but it¡¯s dangerous. The Qi inside isn¡¯t like the Qi in the air, it¡¯s wild, aggressive, and still carries traces of the beast¡¯s essence. If we absorb it directly, it could damage our meridians.¡± Jian clenched his jaw. ¡°So what? We just sit here, waiting to recover naturally while power sits in front of us?¡± Tao¡¯s eyes narrowed in thought. ¡°Not necessarily. If we can find a way to purify the Qi, make it more suitable for us, then we could use it.¡± Jian looked sceptical. ¡°How?¡± Tao tapped a finger against the stone floor. ¡°Some sects use formations or alchemy, but we don¡¯t have access to those. However¡­ I remember reading that certain spirit plants in the Wilds can neutralize the beastly nature of Qi. If we can find the right ones, we might be able to refine the cores safely.¡±This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Jian sat back, considering the idea. ¡°So we¡¯d be filtering the Qi before absorbing it?¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Tao picked up a core, rolling it between his palms. ¡°It¡¯s a theory, but it¡¯s worth trying.¡± Jian watched as Tao closed his eyes and channelled a tiny wisp of Qi into the core. Almost immediately, the energy inside reacted, pushing back violently. Tao¡¯s face tensed as he tried to suppress it, guiding it carefully toward his meridians. But the moment it touched his Qi pathways, pain shot through him like a searing blade. He gasped and cut off the flow, his chest rising and falling as he steadied himself. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ too unstable,¡± he admitted. ¡°I can control it, but only in small amounts. Any more, and it could damage my meridians.¡± Jian¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°So we really do need a purification method.¡± Tao nodded. ¡°And fast.¡± Jian pushed himself to his feet. ¡°Then we should start looking. There have to be spirit plants nearby that can help.¡± Tao smirked despite his exhaustion. ¡°Unless you¡¯d rather risk your meridians exploding?¡± Jian sighed. ¡°Fine. But if we run into another giant spider, you¡¯re handling it.¡± Tao chuckled, but their moment of levity was short lived. In the distance, a low, guttural howl echoed through the Wilds, reminding them that danger still lurked beyond their cave. Steeling themselves, they stepped out, determined to find what they needed to grow stronger. Moonlight filtered through the thick canopy, casting jagged shadows across the forest floor. Every rustling leaf, every distant cry of a beast, set their nerves on edge. Tao crouched near a cluster of gnarled roots, running his fingers over the thin, glowing veins of a Golden Root Orchid.¡°This might work,¡± he murmured. ¡°It¡¯s said to stabilize Qi, but we¡¯ll need more than just this.¡± Jian scanned the area, blade half drawn. ¡°Then let¡¯s hurry.¡± As they moved deeper, Tao spotted another useful plant, Mistshade Ivy, its deep green leaves damp with morning dew. He carefully plucked a few sprigs, slipping them into his pouch. A sudden snap of a branch made them both freeze. Low, guttural breathing rumbled through the undergrowth. A Shadowfang Lynx slinked from the darkness, its fur blending seamlessly with the night. Its eyes glowed faintly; sharp fangs bared in warning. A low level spirit beast.Injured as they were, it wouldn¡¯t be an easy fight. Jian moved first. The lynx lunged, but he twisted aside, slashing a precise arc with his blade. Tao followed, shifting into Tranquil Pool, his sword gliding in smooth, fluid strokes. When the beast recoiled, he switched to Raging Waves, striking with sudden force. The lynx hissed, blood staining its sleek fur, before collapsing. Jian exhaled, wiping his blade. ¡°At least we have something to eat.¡± Tao smirked. ¡°And we just found another way to replenish our Qi.¡± With their spoils in hand, they made their way back to the cave, ready to experiment. Chapter 36: Experimentation
Tao crouched near the fire, his fingers running over the golden veined leaves of the Golden Root Orchid. The flickering light made the delicate veins shimmer, a reminder of the potential locked within the plant. After bringing back the Shadowfang Lynx to the cave, he and Jian had gone out again to scavenge the surrounding area for herbs, but only a few seemed useful.
The Sunpetal Flower had proven insufficient; it purified Qi partially but left unstable remnants behind, making absorption risky. The Golden Root Orchid, however, showed promise. Its natural properties seemed to stabilize the energy flow, smoothing the volatile currents left behind by beast cores.
But it was painfully slow.
Jian sat nearby, sharpening his sword with steady, practiced strokes. The rhythmic scraping of metal against whetstone filled the cave. His sharp eyes flicked to Tao¡¯s experiment.
¡°At this rate, we¡¯ll grow old before we refine enough Qi to make a difference,¡± he muttered, watching as Tao extracted another minuscule amount from a beast core.
Tao exhaled in frustration. ¡°The Orchid works better than the others, but we don¡¯t have time for this. If only we could accelerate the process somehow.¡± He turned the leaf in his hand, rolling it between his fingers, considering their options.
Jian raised an eyebrow. ¡°You¡¯re thinking about forcing it to grow stronger?¡±
Tao nodded. He had used the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique to help plants grow before, but this was different. If he could enhance the Orchid¡¯s properties, it might refine beast core energy faster.
Jian leaned forward slightly. ¡°Worth a try. But won¡¯t it drain your Qi?¡±
Tao allowed himself a small smile. ¡°That¡¯s why we brought back the lynx.¡±
The Shadowfang Lynx lay nearby, its sleek black fur still gleaming despite its death. Although it was a low grade spirit beast, its meat still contained enough Qi to make it a valuable resource for recovery.
Earlier, they had butchered the beast, preserving the Qi rich meat as much as possible.
Jian sheathed his sword. ¡°Let¡¯s eat first. You¡¯ll need strength before attempting anything reckless.¡±Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
Tao didn¡¯t argue. The two of them worked together, roasting the lynx meat over the fire. As the rich, savoury scent filled the cave, Tao still felt the fatigue in his limbs from their earlier battle. The fight had been short but draining, and the cost of exertion had settled deep into his bones.
The first bite sent a warm pulse of Qi spreading through his meridians, the beast¡¯s natural energy sinking into his body. His muscles loosened, his exhaustion fading. Across from him, Jian exhaled in relief.
¡°This is better than absorbing Heaven and Earth Qi,¡± he admitted, leaning against the cave wall.
Tao finished his portion, wiped his hands, and refocused on the Golden Root Orchid. Now replenished, he checked that the plant was carefully placed in the soil, then he placed both hands on the plant and began channelling his Qi.
Tao guided his Qi with precision, splitting it into two controlled streams, one sinking into the roots, the other dispersing into the air. The cave grew still as fine droplets of Qi infused rain shimmered into existence, falling gently. Each droplet pulsed faintly before falling onto the plant and the surrounding soil, its energy spreading in measured waves. At the same time, Tao fed a steady pulse of Qi directly into the roots, stabilizing their foundation. The plant quivered under the sudden influx, its structures resisting the change.
He adjusted the flow carefully; too much, and the delicate roots would wither; too little, and they wouldn¡¯t strengthen. Minutes passed. The shimmering rain continued to fall. The plants trembled, golden veins pulsing as they hovered on the brink of rejection. Tao gritted his teeth, refining his control. Slowly, the resistance eased, the roots steadied, drawing in the energy instead of resisting it. The glow deepened, spreading across the stems and leaves in faint, rhythmic pulses.
Jian watched in silence as Tao concentrated, carefully feeding the plant his Qi in slow, measured pulses. Minutes passed. Then¡ª
Tao withdrew his hands, exhaling sharply. A thin sheen of sweat dampened his brow, but satisfaction shone in his eyes.
The Orchid''s roots burst from the soil, writhing as if alive. The entire plant twisted and throbbed, its shape shifting as dark tendrils of Qi leaked from it.
Jian stiffened. ¡°That¡¯s not normal.¡±
Tao¡¯s breath was ragged, sweat beading on his forehead. He had expected an improvement, but not this level of reaction. The plant was no longer just stabilizing Qi; it was absorbing it, transforming itself.
Then, with a final pulse of energy, the Orchid settled, its glow stabilizing into a deep, rich gold. The air around it hummed with latent power.
Tao withdrew his hands, his body trembling slightly from the exertion. But when he met Jian¡¯s gaze, his eyes shone with excitement.
¡°It worked.¡±
Jian picked up one of the leaves, turning it between his fingers. A faint warmth radiated from it, far denser than before. ¡°Will it refine Qi any faster now?¡±
Tao grabbed a beast core, tested a small sample, and watched as the Orchid absorbed and purified the energy at triple the previous speed. Chapter 37: Discovering The Iron Tower Sect’s Secret
The dense canopy of the Wilds cast elongated shadows as Elder Jianyu led his five core disciples through the dense underbrush of the Wilds, their senses heightened to the myriad dangers lurking within. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and decaying foliage, and the distant cries of unseen creatures echoed around them. Each disciple, having surpassed the 5th level of Qi Condensation, moved with practiced stealth, though their true strength lay in combat, a testament to Elder Jianyu''s own martial prowess.
They had made swift progress since the order was issued from the sect. They used their strength and concealment techniques to make short work of any beast that crossed their path or to avoid it entirely. Elder Jianyu, a particularly formidable cultivator at the peak of the 9th level of Qi Condensation, had deliberately postponed his advancement to the Foundation Establishment stage, recognizing that the lands bordering the Wilds were deficient in spiritual energy, lacking the necessary resources for a smooth breakthrough.
As they navigated a narrow, winding path, the group halted abruptly. Ahead, a contingent of Iron Tower Sect members trudged along, their arms laden with supplies. Elder Jianyu''s eyes narrowed, recognizing an opportunity. He gestured silently, and his disciples dispersed into the surrounding foliage, positioning themselves for an ambush.
With a subtle disturbance, a rustle of leaves, a snapped twig, the rearmost Iron Tower Sect member paused, glancing nervously into the shadows. Curiosity piqued; the straggler veered off to investigate. Seizing the moment, two disciples lunged forward, their movements swift and precise. In a flash, the team sprang into action. With swift precision, they subdued the isolated sect member, rendering him unconscious and dragging him deeper into the forest.
As he regained consciousness, panic flickered in his eyes. He struggled trying to free himself from the clutches of his captors.
In a secluded clearing, the captive was bound and forced to his knees before Elder Jianyu. The elder''s gaze was cold, his voice a low growl.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.
"Speak. What is the Iron Tower Sect planning in these Wilds?"
The captive hesitated, sweat beading on his brow. A disciple unsheathed a blade, its edge gleaming ominously.
"Wait! I''ll talk!" the man stammered. "The Iron Tower Sect... we''ve discovered a secret realm deep within the Wilds. It''s filled with heaven grade herbs, perfect for those at the Foundation Establishment stage.¡±
A murmur ran through the disciples. Such resources could elevate their sect''s standing immensely.
"There''s more," the captive continued, sweat beading on his forehead. "We''ve allied with Medicine Valley to exploit the realm''s treasures."
¡°If you harm me, the sect will find out and come after you¡± stammered the youth. ¡°Please release me and I won¡¯t say a word about what happened¡±
Elder Jianyu''s expression darkened. Medicine Valley was renowned for their medicinal and alchemical prowess. Such an alliance posed a significant threat.
"You''ve been most helpful," Elder Jianyu said, a chilling finality in his tone.
Before the captive could react, a swift strike ended his life. The team then meticulously staged the scene, using blades to mimic the claw marks of a ferocious beast, ensuring the body appeared to be a victim of the Wilds'' dangers.
As they retreated, Elder Jianyu gathered his disciples. "This discovery changes our mission. We must inform the sect leaders of this secret realm and the impending threat of the Iron Tower and Medicine Valley."
"Lin Yue, prepare to send a paper crane message back to the sect," Jianyu said, looking at a female disciple who wore a worried expression. "Use your technique to ensure the message remains unreadable if intercepted."
Lin Yue quickly retrieved a paper crane from a hidden compartment in her robe, imbued it with a message, and infused it with her Qi.
Jianyu signalled for the rest of the disciples to prepare for departure. As they readied themselves, a sudden oppressive aura descended upon them. From the shadows emerged a cloaked figure, exuding a formidable presence.
"Leaving so soon?" the stranger''s voice resonated, dripping with menace.
Elder Jianyu and his disciples braced themselves, realizing that their challenges in the Wilds were far from over. Chapter 38: Discovered
Elder Jianyu and his disciples stood amidst the dense foliage, the oppressive aura of the cloaked stranger weighing heavily upon them. The stranger''s voice cut through the tension, dripping with menace.
"Leaving so soon?"
Elder Jianyu''s hand instinctively moved to the hilt of his sword, his eyes narrowing. "Who are you?"
The stranger''s lips curled into a smirk beneath his hood. "Names are inconsequential. What matters is that you''ve trespassed into territories best left undisturbed. Which sect do you represent?"
Before Elder Jianyu could respond, the underbrush rustled, and a group of Iron Tower Sect disciples emerged, their leader''s eyes narrowing at the scene.
"What''s this? Intruders?"
The cloaked figure turned to the Iron Tower leader, his tone authoritative. "These individuals refuse to identify their sect. They may be spies."
The Iron Tower leader assessed Elder Jianyu and his disciples, noting their cultivation levels. "All above the 5th layer of Qi Condensation, and you..." His gaze fixed on Elder Jianyu. "The 9th layer. Impressive."
He turned to the cloaked stranger. "We could use your assistance. Together, we can eliminate these intruders."
The stranger nodded, stepping forward. "Agreed."
Realizing that conflict was inevitable, Elder Jianyu drew his sword, its blade gleaming even in the dim light. "Prepare yourselves," he commanded his disciples.
The air grew thick with tension as the adversaries closed in. Elder Jianyu took a deep breath, centring himself. With a swift motion, he initiated the Verdant Sword Art, his blade dancing gracefully, leaving trails of shimmering energy in its wake.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.
His movements were a masterful display of the sword art, each strike precise and imbued with profound energy. The advanced techniques he employed showcased his deep mastery, allowing him to confront multiple opponents simultaneously.
The disciples, inspired by their elder''s prowess, engaged the enemy with determination. However, the combined forces of the cloaked figure and the Iron Tower Sect proved formidable.
The cloaked stranger revealed his true strength, summoning a massive cauldron, a spirit weapon associated with alchemists. With a wave of his hand, the cauldron emitted a thick, poisonous mist, spreading rapidly towards Elder Jianyu and his disciples.
Elder Jianyu''s expression hardened. "An alchemist from Medicine Valley," he muttered.
He adjusted his stance, channelling his Qi to form a protective barrier against the encroaching poison. With a swift motion, he unleashed a powerful sword technique, sending a wave of energy to disperse the mist.
The battle intensified, with Elder Jianyu showcasing advanced versions of the Verdant Sword Art, his blade movements creating arcs of energy that clashed with the alchemist''s techniques. The disciples fought valiantly, but the combined might of their adversaries began to take its toll.
Recognizing the escalating danger, Elder Jianyu made a swift decision. "Fall back!" he ordered. "Regroup and retreat!"
With disciplined precision, the group moved as one, relying on the speed of their movement techniques and ability to blend into the environment. They moved swiftly through the dense forest, using the rustling leaves and shifting shadows to conceal their movements.
Their pursuers, hindered by the thick underbrush and their own haste, struggled to keep up. After a tense silence, the group emerged into a secluded clearing, hearts racing but their bodies steady from the escape.
Breathing heavily, one of the disciples spoke up, "Elder, who was that cloaked figure? He didn''t seem to be with the Iron Tower Sect."
Elder Jianyu sheathed his sword, his expression contemplative. "An alchemist from Medicine Valley. Their techniques are formidable, especially when combined with the Iron Tower Sect."
As they prepared to continue their journey back to the Verdant Dawn Sect, Elder Jianyu couldn''t shake the feeling that this confrontation was merely the beginning of a more significant conflict looming on the horizon. Chapter 39: A Risk and a Revelation Tao and Jian sat cross legged in their secluded cave, the air thick with the residual energy of their recent cultivation. Faint motes of spiritual light still flickered in the air, dissipating slowly like embers fading into the void. Both had successfully broken through to the peak of the Third Layer of Qi Condensation, the refined energy from beast cores fuelling their rapid ascent. Yet, the method Tao devised, while effective, suffered a fatal flaw, too much Qi was lost in the purification process, leaking away like water through cupped hands. Before them, the Golden Root Orchid lay, its golden veins pulsing faintly with an inner radiance. Since Tao¡¯s enhancement, the plant had evolved, its properties far exceeding their initial expectations. The leaves had taken on a richer hue, and the very air around it shimmered faintly with spiritual energy, thick with an almost tangible vitality. "The orchid''s transformation is remarkable," Tao murmured, his gaze fixed upon the plant. "It¡¯s as if it has become a higher-grade spirit herb." Jian ran a careful hand over one of the leaves, feeling the delicate energy thrumming beneath his fingertips. "Its evolution has altered the purification process as well. The Qi loss is still substantial. We need a better method." Tao reached into his storage ring, retrieving the two fruits they had obtained earlier. Once radiant with raw spiritual energy, they now seemed slightly dimmed, the passage of time having weakened their potency. "These fruits..." Tao began, turning one over in his hand. "They¡¯ve lost some of their Qi, but they still hold immense power. If we consume them, they could temper our foundations, but the risk remains." Jian studied the fruit, his brow furrowing. "Our cultivation has strengthened, but is it enough?" Tao considered the question, his fingers tightening around the fruit. "The diminished Qi makes them more manageable. But once ingested, the influx of energy will be overwhelming. If we aren¡¯t prepared, we could¡ª" "¡ªSuffer Qi deviation," Jian finished grimly. A long silence stretched between them. Then Jian exhaled and nodded. "I¡¯ll go first." Tao looked at him sharply. "Are you sure?" Jian''s expression was steady, resolute. "If anything goes wrong, you can assist me." Tao hesitated, then gave a solemn nod. "Alright. I¡¯ll monitor your condition closely." Jian took a deep breath, his fingers tightening around the fruit. Its cool surface sent a strange shiver through him, as if something inside the fruit recognized him, challenged him. With a final glance at Tao, he bit into it. The moment the flesh met his tongue, a tidal wave of Qi erupted inside him.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. A searing heat rushed through his meridians, flooding his dantian with raw power. His veins blazed like molten rivers, and the energy threatened to tear him apart. A strangled gasp escaped his lips as sweat streamed down his face, his muscles seizing under the unbearable pressure. Tao¡¯s expression darkened. "Focus, Jian! Guide the Qi! Don¡¯t let it overwhelm you!" Jian clenched his teeth, his hands digging into the ground as his body convulsed violently. The spiritual energy surged like a raging storm, breaking down impurities, forcing out the filth that had long stagnated within his body. Noxious black residue oozed from his pores, releasing a stench so foul it made Tao instinctively recoil. But Jian could not focus on the filth purging from his body, his very spirit root was changing. His vision blurred, and for a terrifying moment, darkness threatened to swallow him whole. But deep within the abyss, a spark of will ignited. He had faced death before. He would not succumb now. With a roar, Jian gritted his teeth and pushed back against the tide, directing the chaotic Qi toward his dantian, forcing it into submission, taming it, melding it into his essence. Minutes stretched into an eternity. But slowly, the storm within him began to subside. The violent torrents of Qi softened into gentle streams, nourishing his spirit root, transforming it. The pain receded, leaving behind a profound clarity, a feeling of indescribable power. Tao watched as Jian¡¯s trembling hands finally stilled, his breath ragged. Jian lay upon the cave floor, his body drenched in sweat and grime, the expelled impurities a stark testament to the metamorphosis within. Tao knelt beside him, concern etched across his face. "Jian, what happened? Are you alright?" For a moment, Jian said nothing, only breathing. Then, slowly, he sat up, his body trembling with exhaustion, yet his eyes burned with an intensity Tao had never seen before. "Tao," Jian said hoarsely, his voice filled with an almost reverent awe, "it¡¯s... incredible." Tao¡¯s frown deepened. "What do you mean?" Jian wiped sweat from his brow, still dazed. "The fruit... it cleansed me. Purged my body of impurities, refined my meridians, and¡ª" He stopped, his breath hitching. "My spirit root... it strengthened." Tao¡¯s eyes snapped wide open. "What?!" Jian nodded, his excitement barely contained despite his exhaustion. "Yes. The energy was overwhelming, nearly shattered me from the inside, but... I endured. I didn¡¯t break through to the Fourth Layer because the Qi was used to refine my body and enhance my spirit root instead." Tao¡¯s heartbeat thundered in his chest. A natural enhancement of the spirit root?! Spirit roots were the foundation of a cultivator¡¯s talent. To strengthen it naturally through an external source was unheard of, an opportunity beyond rare. A slow smile crept across Tao¡¯s face as the implications settled in. "This..." he murmured, his fingers tightening around the second fruit. "...could change everything." Jian grinned despite his exhaustion. "Exactly. If we can temper our spirit roots before advancing, our cultivation potential¡ª" "¡ªWould be far greater than anyone else at our level," Tao finished, his eyes glinting with ambition. Silence stretched between them once more. But this time, it was not hesitation that held them still. It was exhilaration. Tao glanced down at the fruit in his hands, feeling the faint pulse of Qi still contained within it. The gamble was great, but the rewards? He exhaled slowly, steeling himself. "It¡¯s my turn." Chapter 40: The Mountain Calls Tao held fruit in his hand watching it carefully as he calmed himself. He needed to focus, to make sure nothing went wrong. Jian had succeeded but he had been stronger than Tao to begin with. Tao was only just catching up with his cultivation. The fruit pulsed with an eerie warmth, as if alive, waiting, no, daring him to consume it. Jian, still recovering from his ordeal, wiped sweat from his brow and gave a tired nod. ¡°It will be violent,¡± he warned. ¡°The Qi will tear through you. You must endure.¡± Tao smirked. "You nearly died, but you came out stronger. What makes you think I can¡¯t?" Jian chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°Just don¡¯t let arrogance get you killed.¡± Tao took a deep breath and bit into the fruit. The moment the juice touched his tongue, an explosion erupted in his meridians. It was nothing like Jian¡¯s experience. The energy was wild. Chaotic. Unruly. Where Jian had been cleansed and refined, Tao¡¯s body felt as if it were being ripped apart, reshaped, rebuilt all at once. His blood burned, his bones groaned under the pressure. And then, something cracked. Qi flooded into him like a tidal wave, drowning his senses. Tao¡¯s consciousness blurred. He saw visions, a vast mountain shrouded in mist, ancient cultivators meditating beneath it. He felt the jade mountain in his dantian resonate violently, its energy surging into his meridians, forcefully reconfiguring his foundation. It was using the energy from the fruit as a catalyst to change him. This wasn¡¯t just purification. Jian¡¯s voice sounded distant, panicked. ¡°Tao! Your Qi, it¡¯s out of control!¡± Tao¡¯s body convulsed, his veins glowing with an ethereal light. The cave trembled as Qi storms whipped through the air. The Golden Root Orchid at their feet shrivelled and blackened, its essence devoured by the phenomenon. Jian cursed and activated his sword, prepared to intervene, but then, suddenly, the storm stopped. Tao¡¯s body stabilized. The overwhelming energy settled, sinking into his dantian. And when Tao opened his eyes, they burned with a new brilliance. Then he was gone. The world around him shifted. Tao was no longer in the cave. He stood upon an enormous mountain, shrouded in mist, the very air humming with unfathomable power. The mist swirled and convulsed, shifting into a lithe fox, its nine silver tails flickering like celestial fire. Shenli. The ancient guardian of the Jade Mountain regarded Tao with an amused smirk.Stolen novel; please report. ¡°What took you so long, kid? Without my intervention, you¡¯d still be fumbling around at the third layer like a blind rat.¡± His golden eyes gleamed with mockery. ¡°Such poor talent.¡± Tao¡¯s breath came in sharp gasps as he scrambled to his feet, his mind still reeling from the sudden shift. ¡°What happened to Jian? Why am I here all of a sudden?¡± Shenli¡¯s tails swayed lazily. ¡°What do you think happened? You broke through to the fourth layer, and the mountain claimed you. A mere coincidence? Or fate? Who can say?¡± Tao gritted his teeth. ¡°Enough riddles. Why am I here?¡± Shenli yawned, the silver flames of his tails curling in the mist. ¡°You are here because the Jade Mountain has acknowledged you.¡± His voice turned cold. ¡°But recognition alone is meaningless. If you lack the ability to wield the mountain¡¯s gifts, you are no better than a frog at the bottom of a well.¡± Tao¡¯s fists clenched. ¡°Then test me.¡± Shenli grinned. ¡°Oh? You wish for trials?¡± The air trembled, and before Tao could react, an unseen force slammed into him, sending him crashing to the ground. The mist coiled around him like living chains, tightening, suffocating, his Qi froze, his body immobile. Shenli¡¯s voice rang out, calm yet merciless. ¡°Without strength, even the greatest opportunity is a shackle. If you wish to ascend, then prove yourself.¡± The mist pressed down, but Tao gritted his teeth. ¡°I won¡¯t be crushed.¡± He forced his Qi to surge, pushing back against the mist, his dantian flaring with renewed power. A low hum filled the air as the Jade Mountain within him resonated, its pulse growing stronger, defiant. The pressure vanished. Shenli chuckled. ¡°Better. You are not completely useless.¡± Tao rose to his feet, panting. He had barely held his own, yet there was no triumph in Shenli¡¯s gaze. Only expectation. ¡°For reaching the Fourth Layer, the mountain grants you gifts. If you squander them, I¡¯ll have a good laugh.¡± A scroll materialized before Tao, floating in mid-air. Tao reached out, the scroll unfurling on its own. Golden characters shimmered across the parchment. Fertile Spirit Nurturing Art, a Heaven grade plant cultivation technique. With this, spirit herbs will grow in half the time, their essence purified to perfection. Tao¡¯s heart pounded. A Heaven grade technique? Even sect elders would kill for something like this! A second scroll formed beside it. Emerald Vine Puppet Arts, a technique that grants control over plants, transforming them into weapons, shields, and sentient constructs of war. Tao¡¯s eyes widened. This was no ordinary reward. The ability to wield plants as extensions of himself. Shenli¡¯s voice cut through his thoughts. ¡°Your mission is simple. Nurture Heaven grade spirit plants in the Lower Herb Garden.¡± Tao frowned. ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Shenli sneered. ¡°You think it¡¯s easy? The Lower Herb Garden has been abandoned for decades. A desolate wasteland. If you can revive it, then perhaps you are worth something.¡± He snapped his tails. The mist collapsed inward and before him stood a dilapidated wooden gate, worn and faded. Shenli had not lied. The place was a ruin. The soil was dry, lifeless, the air thick with the scent of decay. Vines choked what little greenery remained, and a lone dilapidated shack slumped at the far end. Tao stepped forward, pushing the gate open with a groan. He walked towards the shack pushing the crooked door open. Dust billowed into the air, thick with the scent of ancient parchment and forgotten knowledge. The inside of the shack was filled with books, their covers embossed with gold characters. He reached for one, its title catching his eye. Herbology: The Art of Spirit Flora Tao exhaled slowly. This was his task. He had no allies. No guidance. Only the Fertile Spirit Nurturing Art, the Emerald Vine Puppet Arts, and the ruined land before him. But he had always been an outcast, had always clawed his way forward despite the odds. Tao¡¯s fingers tightened around the book. If the Jade Mountain demanded he prove himself, then he would. Even if he had to drag the Lower Herb Garden back to life with his own hands. Chapter: 41:The Hidden Realm’s Whisper Tao stepped forward trying to explore the boundaries of the Lower Herb Garden, mist curling around his ankles like grasping fingers. The realm stretched out before him, but he could barely see beyond a few paces. A pale, diffuse light hung over everything, yet no sun burned in the sky. The air smelled ancient, rich with forgotten power, tinged with the faintest trace of decay. It seemed that there was a limit to how far he could explore before the mist blocked his path. Somewhere in the distance, a rustle, too deliberate to be the wind. Tao tensed. A chuckle, deep and knowing, curled through the air like smoke. "So slow," the voice mused, smooth as silk yet sharp as a blade. "For someone so eager to wield the realm¡¯s power. Why are you hesitating?" The mist shifted. A shape emerged, tall, sleek, otherworldly. Shenli. His silver-white fur shimmered like starlight, tails drifting behind him as if caught in an unseen current. His eyes, molten gold, held the weight of ancient amusement. Tao forced himself to relax. "I¡¯m assessing the situation." Shenli laughed, the sound low and mocking. "Assessing? You haven¡¯t even stepped past the threshold, and you think you grasp anything about this place?" He circled Tao, his movements fluid, predatory. "Foolish. Ignorant. But that¡¯s to be expected." Tao ignored the provocation. "You told me before, the lower garden needs to be restored before anything valuable can grow. What do I need to do?"This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. Shenli tilted his head, tails flicking. "Oh? Suddenly you listen? But why should I simply hand you answers?" He leaned closer, voice a whisper against Tao¡¯s ear. "Knowledge is earned, not begged for." Tao exhaled sharply, biting back his frustration. He wouldn¡¯t let Shenli drag him into another game of words. "The shack. The books. The answers are in there." Shenli smirked, his fangs just barely visible. "Perhaps. But you don¡¯t have much time, I put your little cultivator friend to sleep but who knows how long it will last?" The mist thickened again, swallowing him whole. Tao didn¡¯t waste time. He strode toward the shack, its wooden frame weathered but sturdy. Pushing open the heavy door, he was met with the scent of old parchment and lacquered wood. Shelves lined the walls, stacked with scrolls, bound tomes, jade slips. A treasure trove of forgotten wisdom. But he had no time to marvel. His heartbeat quickened. Jian was still in the cave. He would wake up and notice his absence soon, if he hadn¡¯t already. Tao had no idea how time flowed here. Was it the same as the outside world? Faster? Slower? A single miscalculation could expose everything. He grabbed the nearest book, fingers tight around the aged leather binding. Flicking through the pages, he scanned the first few lines. Soil refinement, spirit enrichment, balance of Yin and Yang energy¡­ It wasn¡¯t enough. He needed to know more, faster. A soft chuckle drifted from the mist outside. Tao gritted his teeth. He could feel Shenli¡¯s presence, watching, waiting. Mocking him. "Better hurry, little cultivator," Shenli¡¯s voice purred from the shadows. "You don¡¯t have the luxury of time." And Tao knew he was right. Chapter 42: Time’s Up A sharp pulse rippled through the pocket realm, stirring the dense mist that obscured its boundaries. Tao stood at the heart of it, breath slow, eyes narrowed. The air here was thick with untapped power, the kind that made the skin prickle, made the soul feel exposed. The scent of old earth and forgotten time lingered, and somewhere beyond the mist, unseen things moved. Shenli loomed nearby, his nine tails curling idly through the air. His golden eyes flickered with amusement. "You don¡¯t have long," he mused, his voice a languid drawl. "The boy won¡¯t stay asleep forever." Tao clenched his jaw. "How long do I have?" Shenli tilted his head, feigning thought. "Hm. A little while¡­ or a moment. It depends." "Depends on what?" Shenli smirked. "How interesting you are." Tao didn¡¯t waste time pressing him. He turned back to rummaging through the contents of the shack. The scent of dust and parchment filled his lungs. Shelves lined the walls, crammed with books of varying sizes, their spines faded, their titles unreadable under layers of grime. No clear order. No guide. No shortcuts. His fingers traced along the shelves before plucking a book at random. The leather cover was cool to the touch, its weight substantial. He flipped it open. ¡®The essence of soil is the foundation of all growth.¡¯ His pulse quickened. He scanned further, flipping pages with growing urgency.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. ¡®To cultivate heaven grade herbs, one must first restore the land and make sure it is of the appropriate spiritual quality.¡¯ A step he had expected. But the book only spoke in vague principles, cycles of vitality, the decay and renewal of spirit energy. It lacked methods. No details on how to achieve it at his level. Tao exhaled sharply. He needed more. He reached for another book, but before his fingers could close around it¡­ The air shifted. A low hum, subtle at first, then rising into a resonant thrum. The mist outside thickened, pressing against the shack¡¯s walls, seeping through cracks like a living thing. The weight of the realm suddenly bore down on him, making his breath hitch. Shenli chuckled from the doorway. "The realm doesn¡¯t like being taken lightly, little mortal. It will not offer its secrets so easily." Tao turned sharply. "What do you mean?" Shenli¡¯s tails flicked, his grin widening. "This place is alive. It watches. It decides." His golden eyes gleamed. "And you? You are barely tolerated." A slow realization crept into Tao¡¯s mind. The pocket realm was rejecting him, or perhaps, testing him. It would not grant knowledge freely. He had to prove himself. A deep vibration rolled through the space, and the mist surged inward. Tao felt the tug immediately, a force pulling at his very essence. A warning. A command. Time was up. The world around him twisted, his vision distorting as if he were being yanked through water. Shenli¡¯s laughter rang in his ears, distant yet sharp. And then¡­ Cold stone beneath his hands. The damp air of the cave. Tao gasped, body jerking upright as he returned to reality. Sweat clung to his skin, his heartbeat pounding like a war drum. The transition left him disoriented, but he forced himself to focus. A rustle. A sharp intake of breath. Jian stirred, his eyes fluttering open. They were still slightly unfocused from his earlier ordeal, but they sharpened as they fixed on Tao. His voice was hoarse, but the suspicion was clear. "Where did you go?" Tao swallowed, his mind racing. He needed to be careful. Needed to hide the truth. Because if Jian knew, if anyone knew, they would want it for themselves. Chapter 43: Jian’s Suspicions Jian stirred, his breath shallow as his body fought to recover. The scent of burnt impurities lingered in the cave, a testament to the violent transformation he had endured. His spirit root had been strengthened, reforged by the fruit¡¯s power. But Tao¡­ Jian¡¯s eyes flickered open, and he immediately tensed. Tao sat cross legged across from him, his form unnervingly still, as if caught between wakefulness and slumber. Yet the air around him was different. He felt different. The cave, once thick with the residual Qi of their cultivation, now seemed almost barren in comparison to the energy radiating from Tao. His breakthrough had pushed him further, far beyond what should have been possible. Jian clenched his fists and pushed himself up, his limbs still heavy. "You¡­ You broke through." His voice was hoarse, but the sharpness in his gaze was unmistakable. Tao¡¯s eyelids fluttered before he exhaled slowly and met Jian¡¯s stare. "Yes." Jian frowned. "To the Fourth Layer. I felt it happen." Tao didn¡¯t deny it. He couldn¡¯t. The evidence was undeniable. His presence had changed. He was stronger, his Qi flowing through his meridians with newfound refinement. But Jian¡¯s gaze darkened slightly. "Then why did you disappear?" Tao stiffened. Jian rubbed his temples, trying to shake off the lingering fog in his mind. "You were here, and then¡­ you weren¡¯t. It was like you flickered out of existence.¡± His breath slowed as he tried to grasp the memory. "And then I blacked out." The moment he said it, doubt began to creep in. Had Tao really vanished? Or was it just the lingering effects of the fruit? His breakthrough had been unlike anything he had ever experienced. The energy had torn through him, nearly breaking him apart. Wouldn¡¯t it make sense if his senses were still unstable? Tao studied him, his expression unreadable. Then he shrugged, his tone light. "You passed out from the strain. That¡¯s all." Jian exhaled slowly, running a hand through his damp hair. He wanted to press further, but his own uncertainty held him back. The fruit had altered him in ways he couldn¡¯t yet understand. Could he really trust his memory of what had happened? Stolen story; please report. After a long pause, he shook his head. "Maybe¡­ Maybe it was just an illusion. A side effect of the fruit¡¯s energy overwhelming my senses." Tao nodded, not confirming nor denying. "That would make sense." Jian sighed and leaned back against the cave wall, closing his eyes briefly. His body still felt foreign to him, stronger, yes, but also unfamiliar. There were too many changes happening at once, too many things he had yet to understand. For now, he would let it go. But a seed of suspicion had already been planted. A few moments passed in silence, each of them lost in thought. Then Jian exhaled deeply and sat forward, reaching into his robes. "We can¡¯t just sit here. We need to figure out what¡¯s next." Tao watched as Jian pulled out a rolled-up map they had taken from the Iron Tower Sect disciple, its edges worn from use. He unrolled it carefully, laying it flat between them. Tao leaned forward and looked at the intricate depiction of the region they had ventured into. Jian traced a finger along the rough terrain, his brows furrowing. "The Obsidian Cloud Lotus should be here just on the edge of the Black Hollow Forest." He tapped a spot further west. "If we want to get there, we have two choices. We either take the direct route through the forest and risk running into spirit beasts, or we go around the valley, which will take at least three extra days." Tao studied the map, his expression unreadable. "We¡¯ve been gone from the sect for a while now If we take the long way around, who knows what we will encounter and how long it will take us to get back. We are also short on healing pills" Jian nodded grimly. "We¡¯d need to hunt along the way. That¡¯s fine for food and replenishing our Qi, but medicinal herbs are harder to come by. If one of us gets injured¡­" He let the thought hang between them. Tao glanced at him. "You think we should take the risk and go straight through?" Jian hesitated before nodding. "It¡¯s dangerous, but we¡¯ve both advanced. We¡¯re not as weak as when we first arrived here." He flexed his fingers, feeling the strength in his newly refined body. "We might be able to handle ourselves." Tao¡¯s eyes flickered with contemplation. He wasn¡¯t just thinking about the beasts. After his time in the pocket realm, he had even more reason to press forward. But Jian was right. The Wilds were unpredictable. The wrong encounter could end them both. Tao sighed. "Then we need to prepare. We should rest for a few hours, let our bodies adjust to the breakthroughs, and then move at dawn." Jian nodded, rolling the map back up. "Agreed. But before we sleep, let¡¯s check what we have left." They went through their supplies, taking stock of the medicinal pills. It wasn¡¯t much, but it would last if they were careful. As they worked, Jian cast a glance at Tao. The feeling of unease hadn¡¯t left him. He still couldn¡¯t shake the memory of what he had seen, or thought he had seen. But for now, he let it be. Tomorrow, they would move forward. One way or another. Chapter 44: The Balance of Power The soft rustling of parchment wings heralded the arrival of a jade white paper crane, gliding through the open window of the Verdant Dawn Sect¡¯s Verdant Hall. Yu Tian, seated in quiet contemplation at his desk, extended a hand, catching the delicate construct between his fingers. With a faint pulse of Qi, the crane unfurled into a parchment strip, inked with meticulous precision by Elder Jianyu¡¯s trusted disciple, Lin Yue. Yu Tian¡¯s brows furrowed as his eyes traced the message. A secret realm discovered within the Wilds. Heaven grade herbs. The Iron Tower Sect and Medicine Valley united. His fingers tightened around the parchment as he absorbed the implications. This was both an opportunity and a disaster. The Iron Tower Sect, already stronger than Verdant Dawn, had joined forces with Medicine Valley, a sect renowned for its alchemical mastery. Alone, Yu Tian and his disciples could not hope to contest such an alliance. Any attempt to seize a portion of the secret realm by force would be suicidal. His mind moved swiftly. There were only two choices, bend and beg for scraps or manipulate the board so that even the strongest pieces could not move freely. With a breath, Yu Tian rose. A flick of his sleeve incinerated the message into faint embers of Qi. He turned toward the hall and, after a moment of contemplation, summoned Elder Mei, one of the sect¡¯s most politically adept figures. When she entered, Yu Tian met her gaze squarely and spoke without preamble. ¡°A secret realm has been discovered within the Wilds,¡± he said, his voice measured. ¡°It contains heaven grade herbs, and the Iron Tower Sect has already allied with Medicine Valley to claim it.¡± Mei¡¯s faltered, her brows lifting in shock. ¡°A secret realm? And they¡¯ve already joined forces?¡± Yu Tian nodded. ¡°We are too weak to challenge them directly. But if negotiations break down, I want you to contact the Golden Flame Sect.¡± Mei¡¯s brow furrowed as she absorbed the information. ¡°They will demand a high price for their intervention.¡± ¡°They will,¡± Yu Tian acknowledged. ¡°But a fragmented realm is better than one ruled by our enemies. If Xiang Wuyi refuses me, I will make certain no one rules the realm at all.¡± With that contingency set, Yu Tian turned toward the looming reality of his next task. He would have to meet Xiang Wuyi himself. The Iron Tower Sect¡¯s fortress loomed ahead, a sprawling bastion of dark stone and towering walls, exuding the same unyielding presence as its patriarch. Before approaching the massive, rune etched gates, Yu Tian halted just beyond the boundary of the sect¡¯s protective formation. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Channelling his Qi, he projected his voice forward, steady and composed. ¡°Yu Tian of the Verdant Dawn Sect seeks an audience with Patriarch Xiang Wuyi.¡± A tense silence followed, the air humming with the latent power of the formation. Then, after a brief pause, the runes flickered, dimming slightly as a passage opened. Two disciples emerged; their expressions neutral but their posture rigid with formality. ¡°You are expected,¡± one said, gesturing for Yu Tian to follow. With measured steps, he crossed the threshold, allowing himself to be led through the fortress¡¯s vast halls, where cold torchlight flickered against polished black stone. At last, he arrived before a towering set of black-iron doors, their weighty presence a testament to the authority of the man waiting within. Xiang Wuyi a man who carried authority as naturally as he breathed. Xiang Wuyi did not rise to greet Yu Tian. His chiselled features remained impassive, though his dark eyes glinted with the confidence of a man who had already won. ¡°Patriarch Yu Tian,¡± he intoned, his voice smooth, edged with iron. ¡°I am surprised to see you here. I had assumed you would recognize your position and stay silent.¡± Yu Tian neither bowed nor flinched. ¡°I have come to ensure that your position remains secure, Patriarch Xiang.¡± A beat of silence. Xiang Wuyi tilted his head, amusement flickering across his sharp features. ¡°Is that so? And how do you propose to do that?¡± Yu Tian¡¯s gaze was unwavering. ¡°By securing a portion of the secret realm for the Verdant Dawn Sect.¡± Xiang Wuyi exhaled through his nose, a sharp, unimpressed sound. ¡°You think you are entitled to such a thing?¡± ¡°No,¡± Yu Tian admitted. ¡°But I think you will prefer that to the alternative.¡± Xiang Wuyi¡¯s fingers tapped idly against the armrest of his throne. ¡°Enlighten me.¡± Yu Tian took a single step forward, his voice calm but heavy with intent. ¡°Deny me, and I will bring in other sects. Golden Flame. Stormbreaking Sword Sect. Perhaps even the Cloudpiercer Pavilion. You may believe you hold the advantage, but if I scatter the spoils across too many hands, you will hold nothing.¡± The Iron Tower Patriarch¡¯s expression darkened. The flickering torchlight cast sharp shadows across his face as the air between them thickened with unspoken tension. ¡°You overstep, Yu Tian,¡± Xiang Wuyi growled, his Qi subtly pressing against the space between them like an impending storm. Yu Tian stood firm. ¡°I am ensuring we all walk away with something, rather than watching larger beasts descend to feast upon what you tried to hoard.¡± Silence stretched between them, taut as a bowstring. Then, after a long pause, Xiang Wuyi exhaled sharply, leaning back against his seat. ¡°I do not like being forced into a corner,¡± he admitted, his tone dangerously low. ¡°Medicine Valley already irritates me with their demands, and now you present me with another choice I would rather not make.¡± Yu Tian remained silent, knowing the decision had already been made. Finally, Xiang Wuyi¡¯s lips curled into something between a sneer and a smirk. ¡°Very well. You will have a share, but do not overreach. You are still a small player in this game, Yu Tian.¡± ¡°I have no interest in games, only survival,¡± Yu Tian replied, bowing his head slightly but never lowering his gaze. Xiang Wuyi studied him for a moment longer before dismissing him with a wave of his hand. ¡°Then let us survive, for now.¡± Yu Tian turned and strode from the hall, knowing full well that he had only bought time, not peace. Chapter 45: Schemes and Plans The cool night air settled over the Verdant Hall, the flickering glow of Qi lanterns casting long shadows across the polished jade floor. Seated within, Yu Tian tapped a single finger against the armrest of his chair, his gaze locked upon the unfurled scroll before him. The weight of its contents remained fresh in his mind. He had forced Xiang Wuyi¡¯s hand, but the true battle had only just begun. With a flick of his sleeve, Yu Tian called forth a paper crane, its jade white form gleaming under the soft lantern light. With a precise pulse of Qi, he imbued it with his will, the delicate construct shuddering to life. ¡°Elder Mei, you are to return to the Iron Tower Sect. Xiang Wuyi may have agreed to my terms, but words alone are fleeting. Solidify the deal, press them for guarantees, for terms they cannot easily manoeuvre around. If they waver, remind them that too many hands grasping for the realm will leave none victorious. Do not return until our position is secured.¡± The crane¡¯s wings fluttered once before soaring through the open window, vanishing into the night. Yu Tian allowed himself a brief moment of stillness before calling forth another crane, this one bearing a different message. ¡°Jianyu, prepare yourself and your finest disciples. We are no longer mere observers. You will enter the secret realm, but do not let ambition cloud your judgment, fortune and peril walk hand in hand. Be ready for all possibilities.¡± As the second crane departed, Yu Tian leaned back, his fingers pressing together in contemplation. The pieces had been moved, but the game was far from decided. He would not allow the Verdant Dawn Sect to be a footnote in someone else¡¯s legend. Meanwhile, at a secluded camp in the Wilds, far beyond the reach of sect halls and towering pavilions, a flickering defensive array shimmered around a secluded grove. Within its protective veil, Elder Jianyu sat beneath an ancient spirit tree, the gnarled roots winding around his seated form like coiled dragons at rest. The jade white crane descended from the night sky, landing lightly upon his outstretched palm. The moment his Qi brushed against it; the message unfurled. Jianyu¡¯s sharp eyes swept across the words. His brows lifted ever so slightly. ¡°He did it,¡± he murmured, a flicker of admiration passing through his otherwise impassive face. ¡°Yu Tian forced his way into the deal.¡± If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. The disciples around him, six inner sect elites, stirred at his words. Their leader, Yin Rufeng, frowned, arms crossed over his chest. ¡°That¡¯s impossible. The Iron Tower Sect would never let us take a share.¡± Jianyu rolled the scroll and allowed it to dissolve into embers with a mere thought. ¡°And yet, Yu Tian has ensured we will not be ignored.¡± He stood, his long robes billowing slightly as a breeze passed through the grove. ¡°We are no longer outsiders to this conflict. We enter the realm as contenders.¡± Yin Rufeng clenched his fists, his face flushed with delight. This was the opportunity he had been waiting for. "We can¡¯t waste this opportunity." He said his voice laced with excitement. Jianyu¡¯s sharp gaze settled upon his disciples, his voice a steady force. "This journey is no mere test. Fortune and calamity walk hand in hand, only the prepared shall seize one and evade the other. At the same time, in font of elder Mei loomed the Iron Tower Sect¡¯s fortress, a bastion of dark stone and unyielding walls. Before its rune etched gates, Elder Mei stood alone, her expression poised and unreadable. The moment her Qi brushed the formation, a ripple spread across the protective wards. From within, voices stirred, and moments later, two armoured disciples emerged. Their postures were rigid with formality, but the tension in their eyes was unmistakable. ¡°The Iron Tower Sect acknowledges Elder Mei of the Verdant Dawn Sect,¡± one disciple intoned. ¡°Patriarch Xiang Wuyi has permitted your entry.¡± Elder Mei stepped forward without hesitation. ¡°Then I will not waste his time.¡± The gates groaned open, revealing the fortress¡¯s grand halls, their interior lit by cold blue flames that danced along the walls. Elder Mei moved through the corridors with measured steps, her mind already considering the moves she would have to make. Xiang Wuyi may have accepted Yu Tian¡¯s bargain, but the true test was in ensuring he would honour it. As the Verdant Dawn Sect prepared itself and agreements solidified, a darker tide stirred beneath the surface. Somewhere in the depths of the Outer Wilds, hidden from the sight of righteous cultivators, another faction observed from the shadows. A cloaked figure knelt before a stone altar, their fingers tracing ancient etchings that pulsed with eerie red light. ¡°The secret realm has awakened¡­ and the fools from the sects will soon descend upon it like locusts.¡± Behind them, a pair of ashen robed cultivators stood in silence, their Qi exuding a subtle, twisted aura. The kneeling figure¡¯s lips curled into a slow, chilling smile. ¡°Let them fight over their petty shares.¡± Their hand pressed against the altar, and the runes upon it blazed to life, illuminating the cavern in a sinister glow. ¡°When the gates open¡­ we will claim what lies within.¡± At the Verdant Dawn Sect, Yu Tian stood before the grand map of the Wilds, his fingers hovering over the region where the secret realm was soon to emerge. He had played his hand. Now, he could only see how the board shifted in response. The storm was coming, and Yu Tian would ensure he stood at its centre. Chapter 46: Whispers in the Dark The Black Hollow Forest loomed before them, its ancient trees rising like silent sentinels against the dim sky. Twisted roots clawed at the earth, the undergrowth thick and unruly, obscuring all but the faintest traces of a path. A cold mist coiled around their ankles, rising in wisps from the damp, shadowed ground. Here, the air was heavy, thick with the scent of decay and the faint, metallic tang of blood. Tao and Jian stood at the forest¡¯s edge, where the safer, winding path diverged from the treacherous, direct route. The latter was a corridor of darkness, branches gnarled and clawing overhead, forming a skeletal archway that swallowed what little light remained. No birds sang, no insects chirped. Only the distant rustling of unseen things stirred within the oppressive stillness. ¡°No wonder they call it the Black hollow Forest.¡± Tao murmured. Jian exhaled slowly, shifting his grip on his sword. "This is it. The last chance to reconsider." Tao met his gaze. "We already agreed. No delays." Jian held his stare a moment longer before nodding. "Then let¡¯s move." Together, they stepped forward, crossing the threshold into the dark forest. The deeper they ventured, the more the forest pressed in around them. The trees stood too close, their bark slick with dampness, their twisted limbs reaching like skeletal fingers. Roots snaked across the uneven terrain, threatening to ensnare careless feet. The air held a damp chill, seeping into their bones. Every breath carried the taste of rot and old earth. Tao moved with quiet precision; his senses sharpened. He walked slightly behind Jian, using the moments of stillness to refine his techniques in secret. A subtle pulse of Qi ran through his fingertips, sinking into the earth as he practiced the Fertile Spirit Nurturing Art. He could feel the latent life beneath the soil, the remnants of ancient vitality buried beneath the weight of centuries. If he focused, he could coax that energy forth, drawing it into something new. He flexed his fingers, resisting the temptation to summon the vines outright. The Emerald Vine Puppet Arts would be too obvious, and Jian was already watchful. Instead, he rehearsed the movements in his mind, threading his Qi through the pathways of his meridians, preparing for the moment he would need them. If questioned, he could pass it off as an extension of his Nurturing Cycle Root Technique, a natural progression, nothing more. He had learned to disguise his power well. The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. A voice curled through his thoughts, smooth as silk, edged with quiet laughter. ¡°What a cautious little cultivator you¡¯ve become.¡± Tao froze mid step. His pulse hammered against his ribs. Shenli. His fingers twitched, but outwardly, he forced himself to remain composed. Jian continued walking, unaware. ¡°Took you long enough to notice,¡± Shenli murmured, his voice an intimate whisper against Tao¡¯s mind. ¡°I was beginning to think you had forgotten me.¡± Tao¡¯s jaw tightened. His eyes flickered sideways, scanning the dim undergrowth, but the fox spirit was nowhere to be seen. This was something new. ¡°How are you speaking to me?¡± Tao thought, keeping his expression unreadable. Shenli chuckled, a low, velvety sound. ¡°Did you think you left my influence behind so easily? Foolish. You are marked by the Lower Herb Garden now. It recognizes you, as do I.¡± Tao resisted the urge to respond aloud. He had suspected the realm had left its imprint on him, but this confirmed it. Shenli could reach him even here. ¡°What do you want?¡± Tao asked silently. Shenli sighed. ¡°Must I want something? Perhaps I simply enjoy watching you skulk about, hiding your gifts like a rat.¡± A pause. ¡°It¡¯s almost sad, really. The realms techniques wasted on you.¡± Tao ignored him. He kept moving, forcing himself to focus. But Shenli¡¯s presence curled around his thoughts like smoke, always there, always watching. Ahead of him, Jian glanced back. "You¡¯re quiet." "Thinking," Tao said simply. Jian¡¯s expression remained neutral, but his fingers tightened slightly on his sword¡¯s hilt. "You¡¯ve been¡­ different. Since the cave." Tao gave a half hearted shrug. "We both broke through. Of course I¡¯m different." Jian didn¡¯t look convinced. He turned his gaze back to the path, but his shoulders remained tense. Tao could feel the distance growing between them, unspoken but heavy. Jian wanted to trust him. But doubt had already taken root. Shenli purred in amusement. ¡°He suspects you.¡± Tao ignored him. They pressed forward, navigating around twisted roots and fallen branches. The deeper they went, the heavier the silence became. It was the kind of silence that swallowed sound, that made even breathing feel like an intrusion. A silence that meant something else was listening. A whisper of movement. A flicker of shadow just beyond the edges of vision. Tao slowed his steps. Jian did the same, his sword sliding a fraction from its sheath. Something was out there. Jian spoke barely above a breath. "We¡¯re not alone." Shenli hummed in Tao¡¯s mind. ¡°Oh, now this is interesting.¡± A shift in the underbrush. A rustle in the canopy above. The forest exhaled. And then, the shadows moved. Chapter 47: The Gate Appears The forest held its breath. Tao and Jian moved forward cautiously, the oppressive silence thickening with every step. The figures in the shadows had been closing in, yet without warning, they withdrew, slipping back into the depths of the trees. Jian¡¯s grip on his sword tightened. "They''re gone? Just like that?" Tao wasn¡¯t convinced. "No. Something''s wrong. They must be planning something" Then, the world twisted. The shift was so subtle at first that they barely noticed. A barely perceptible ripple in the air, a faint tug in their chests. Then, all at once, it consumed them. The path ahead stretched unnaturally. The trees, once distinct in shape, became eerily identical, their gnarled limbs clawing at the sky in uniform patterns. The roots beneath their feet seemed to twist in on themselves, leading them forward yet leaving them nowhere. Jian exhaled sharply. "Wait, this isn''t right. Somethings changed." They pressed on, only to come across a fallen branch lying across the path an hour later. Jian had stepped over that exact branch moments ago. His expression darkened. "We¡¯re walking in circles." Tao frowned. "That¡¯s not possible. We¡¯ve been walking in a straight line." Jian turned and made a deep gash in the nearest tree, carving a jagged mark into its bark. They continued forward, more wary than before. The silence of the forest became suffocating, thick with unseen weight. Minutes passed, then¡­ Jian stopped dead. The same gash, the same tree, stood before them once more. "Damn it," Jian cursed. "We¡¯re trapped in a formation." Tao inhaled sharply, his senses reaching outward. The energy around them was wrong¡­ stretched and warped, as if space itself had been rewoven into an endless loop. A low chuckle curled through his mind, smooth and mocking. "Oh dear. You really are helpless without me, aren''t you?" Tao¡¯s jaw tightened. "Shenli." The fox spirit¡¯s voice oozed with amusement. "What an embarrassing display. You can¡¯t even tell where the core of the formation is? How do you expect to survive in the cultivation world like this?" Jian didn¡¯t notice the voice in Tao¡¯s mind, but he did notice the tension in his posture. "You sense something?" Tao hesitated. "The formation is distorting space around us." Jian scowled, scanning their surroundings. "Then there has to be a core somewhere. If we can disrupt it¡­" Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. He was interrupted by a sharp rustling. Both of them turned toward the sound, weapons ready, but there was nothing. Just the same trees, the same twisting path. Jian let out a slow breath. "Think. There has to be a way to break it." They tried everything. Jian carved symbols into trees, marking their steps, only to have them appear ahead of them again. Tao sent a pulse of Qi through the ground, searching for inconsistencies, only to feel the same terrain stretching infinitely around them. The more they struggled, the tighter the space seemed to constrict, as if the forest itself were feeding off their confusion. Shenli sighed dramatically. "Oh, this is painful to watch. Look at you, scurrying like trapped rats. Is this really the best you can do?" Tao clenched his fists. "If you¡¯re so amused, why don¡¯t you break it yourself?" Shenli let out a slow hum. "Mmm¡­ tempting, but watching you struggle is far more entertaining. Maybe I¡¯ll let you wander for a few more hours¡­ days, perhaps? Until you start talking to the trees? That would be fun." Jian threw a rock down a side path, it bounced off a tree, veered sideways, then rolled to a stop at their feet. He cursed. "We don¡¯t have time for this. Has it been a day or longer? I can¡¯t tell how long we have been walking this path." Shenli sighed dramatically. "Shall I let you struggle a little longer? It is rather amusing." Tao exhaled sharply. "There has to be a flaw in the array. We just need to¡­" Tao felt his patience fraying, but before he could think further, Shenli clicked his tongue, unimpressed. "Enough. I can¡¯t watch this anymore." Suddenly, the air around them shattered. A piercing crack tore through the silence, like glass fracturing in an instant. The trees rippled as if reality itself had been a stretched canvas, suddenly snapping back into place. The unnatural mist that had concealed their true surroundings vanished, revealing the path as it had been before the array took hold. Jian staggered slightly, eyes wide. "What just happened?" Tao forced his face into neutrality. "I¡­ don¡¯t know." Jian studied him for a long moment, his suspicion unmistakable. But before he could press further, the earth rumbled beneath them. The oppressive silence of the forest changed, shifting into something expectant. Ahead, nestled within the roots of an ancient tree, a black petaled lotus glowed faintly, shrouded in mist. Jian inhaled. "The Obsidian Cloud Lotus¡­ we found it." But Tao barely registered the words. Something stirred beneath them. A tremor. Then another. A deep, ancient groan reverberated through the earth. The mist swirled violently, forming into shifting figures. Then¡­ Movement. From the shadows, ashen robed cultivators emerged, their faces obscured beneath hoods. But they did not approach Tao and Jian. Their attention was fixed elsewhere on the earth itself. The ground cracked, splitting apart with a hiss of steam. A towering gate, wreathed in forgotten symbols, rose from the depths, roots coiling around its ancient frame. Its power pulsed in slow, rhythmic waves, as if awakening from a long slumber. And before it, half buried in the earth, something moved. The being was humanoid, but not human. Obsidian veins pulsed through bark like armour, its massive form entwined with the land itself. Its pale, glowing eyes flickered open, burning with an unnatural light. When it spoke, its voice rumbled like shifting stone. "Who seeks passage? Do you come as seekers or as trespassers? Speak, or be judged." The ashen robed cultivators stood motionless. Jian¡¯s grip on his sword tightened. Tao remained silent, breath slow, controlled, but inside, his mind churned. In the depths of his consciousness, Shenli laughed. "Ah¡­ now this is interesting." Chapter 48: Chaos at the Gate The Guardian did not wait. The instant its pale, glowing eyes settled upon the ashen robed figures, the ground erupted. Gnarled roots, thick as iron chains, surged upward from the earth, twisting toward the intruders like living serpents. The air vibrated with power, the pressure alone enough to set Jian¡¯s teeth on edge. Yet the leader of the ashen robed cultivators did not flinch. With a single step, he rose into the air, hovering just above the battlefield, his long robes billowing unnaturally. A sickly crimson light radiated from his fingertips as he raised a single hand. Then, he struck. A tide of writhing shadow burst forth, the twisted remnants of resentful spirits shrieking as they clawed toward the Guardian. The ground beneath them blackened, an aura of decay spreading outward, leeching the life from the very soil. The Guardian reeled, its obsidian veined form straining against the tide of corruption. The earth groaned beneath them as both forces collided, sending violent tremors through the clearing. The other ashen robed cultivators moved as one, weaving complex seals, their combined Qi merging into a formation. The symbols across the rising gate flared in response, pulsing with a deep, blood hued radiance. The very air thickened with spiritual energy, twisting into an unseen force that pressed against Tao¡¯s skin. They were activating something. Jian gripped his sword tightly. "We shouldn¡¯t be here." Tao barely heard him. His eyes remained locked on the battle, mind racing. Every figure in the clearing, Guardian or intruder, was stronger than them. If they were noticed, they would be nothing more than insects crushed beneath a careless step. Shenli¡¯s laughter slithered into his mind. "Ah¡­ now things get truly interesting. Do you feel it? The beasts of the forest have sensed the Qi disturbances¡­ and they are coming." A ripple of wild Qi surged through the forest. A deep, guttural roar echoed in the distance, followed by another, and another. The forest itself awakened. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Then, chaos. From the darkness beyond the gate, the beasts descended. A monstrous two headed serpent burst from the undergrowth, its scales rippling with dark Qi. Spectral wolves, their eyes gleaming with unnatural light, loped from the shadows, their howls splitting the night. In the canopy above, razor winged crows wheeled, their shrieks sharp as blades. The air grew thick with their presence, the promise of destruction pulling forth creatures that had lurked unseen in the depths of the Black Hollow Forest. And they were all converging upon the gate. The ashen robed figures barely reacted. With a single motion, their formation shifted, their seals morphing into something deadlier. Threads of Qi lashed out, eviscerating the first beasts that lunged into the fray. But for every creature that fell, three more took its place. The battlefield was no longer a battle. It was a storm, spiralling out of control. Jian inhaled sharply. "We need to leave." Tao nodded once. He didn¡¯t hesitate. In the midst of the chaos, the dark petals of the Obsidian Cloud Lotus remained untouched, caught between two forces too busy to claim it. An opportunity. Tao and Jian moved as one, their movement techniques activating in the same breath. Tao¡¯s form blurred, fluttering across the battlefield like a falling leaf, while Jian¡¯s sword light flickered between shadow and steel. They darted through the storm of violence, unseen amid the carnage, mere ghosts in the eyes of stronger beings. Tao reached the lotus first. His fingers closed around the stem, and in that instant, power flooded his palm, dense, potent, almost too much. The lotus pulsed, as if resisting him, as if it knew it did not belong to mortals. Then the Guardian turned. Even locked in battle, it sensed the two closest to the portal. A bellowing roar split the air, roots surging toward Tao with terrifying speed. Jian twisted midair, his sword flashing as he cut down the first tendril, buying Tao the fraction of a second he needed. And then, the gate opened. A blinding glow erupted from its surface, an ancient force tearing reality apart as the symbols along its archway burned with crimson fire. The air trembled, space distorting at its threshold. Jian¡¯s eyes locked onto Tao¡¯s. "That¡¯s our only way out!" A screech, something massive descending from above. A winged beast, talons glinting with lethal intent, dove towards them. No choice. Tao and Jian hurled themselves toward the gate. Their movement techniques strained to keep up with their speed. Then suddenly the gate¡¯s threshold loomed before them and they plunged past its blue tinged, opaque interior. The moment their bodies crossed the threshold, the world behind them vanished. They fell.. And the battlefield, the Guardian, the beasts, the chaos of the Black Hollow Forest¡­ Was left behind. Chapter 49: Catching Their Breath
Tao landed hard, rolling to absorb the impact, his body screaming in protest from exhaustion. Jian wasn¡¯t as graceful, his boots digging into the soft earth as he nearly collapsed to his knees. The world around them was still, unnaturally so, in stark contrast to the chaos they had just escaped. For several long moments, neither of them spoke, both gasping for breath, their minds struggling to process what had just happened.
Jian ran a trembling hand through his sweat-matted hair. "What was that?"
Tao let out a slow breath, his pulse still pounding. "Whoever they are, it looks like they were trying to get in here."
Jian scoffed, shaking his head. "I¡¯ve never seen anything like that. Those cultivators¡­ that Guardian¡­ we were like ants caught between titans. If we had hesitated even a second longer¡­"
"We wouldn¡¯t be having this conversation," Tao finished grimly. He clenched his fists, feeling the lingering tension in his limbs. "I thought the beasts would be enough to shift the battle, but even with them attacking, those ashen robed cultivators barely faltered."
Jian exhaled sharply. "And that formation breaking¡­ the way everything collapsed at once. It was like a dam bursting. Do you think they meant for that to happen?"
Tao hesitated, keeping his face neutral. "Maybe. Or maybe they lost control of the formation. Either way, we were lucky to escape."
Jian nodded but still seemed troubled. "I don¡¯t like it. We got out, but it felt like the real danger was only beginning."
Silence stretched between them before Jian suddenly tensed. "The lotus. Do you still have it?"
Tao reached into his robes, pulling out the Obsidian Cloud Lotus. The dark petals shimmered faintly in the light, absorbing the soft glow of the realm around them. Its power remained steady. It hadn¡¯t changed since they had taken it, yet it felt different in their hands, heavier, more significant.
Jian carefully examined it. "It¡¯s definitely stronger than Profound Grade¡­ but I¡¯ve never seen a Heaven Grade plant before. I don¡¯t even know what it would look like." This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.
Tao nodded. "Neither do I. But if this isn¡¯t one, then what else could it be?"
Jian ran a hand over his face. "We¡¯ve got something priceless in our hands, then. If we weren¡¯t targets before, we are now."
Tao sighed, tucking the lotus safely back into his robes. "Let¡¯s recover first before we think about what comes next."
As the tension eased, they finally took in their surroundings.
They stood in a sealed valley, encased by sheer cliffs that reached high into the sapphire sky, their surfaces covered in moss and streaks of silver veined stone. Unlike the dense wilderness they had just left, this land was open, stretching out before them in rolling fields of emerald green grass that shimmered faintly under the strange light above. The sky itself was unlike anything in the outside world, deep, endless blue streaked with soft golden clouds, casting a warm, diffused glow over the landscape.
A crystalline river wove through the valley, its waters glowing with pure spirit energy, feeding into terraced fields carved into the hillside. These terraces, though partially overgrown, still bore the unmistakable signs of careful cultivation: structured rows, faint traces of spiritual formations flickering along the edges.
Jian turned in slow wonder. "This place¡­"
Tao took a steadying breath. "It was a cultivation ground."
A forgotten one, but a cultivation ground nonetheless.
The valley, once shaped by human hands, had been left untended. Some of the terraces were completely overrun, the carefully arranged pathways now buried under creeping vines and wild vegetation. Others remained untouched, protected by weakly flickering defensive formations that still struggled to fulfil their purpose.
In the distance, a tall pavilion stood at the valley¡¯s heart. The structure had once been impressive, but time had worn its edges. Despite this, a faint spiritual resonance still pulsed within its walls. Surrounding it were clusters of spirit plants, some still thriving and giving off an intense Qi signature despite years, maybe centuries, of neglect.
Jian¡¯s gaze drifted toward one of the terraces where something still glowed faintly behind a flickering formation. "Some of the defences still hold. Whatever is behind them¡­ hasn¡¯t been disturbed."
Tao exhaled slowly. "Then it¡¯s worth investigating."
Jian nodded. "Let¡¯s recover our strength first. Then we see what secrets this place holds."
Tao glanced back toward the portal nervously. "I don¡¯t think we have much time before those robed figures start making their way in."
Jian tensed. "Right¡­ We also need to find another way to escape. I don¡¯t think we can go back the way we came."
They had no idea where they were, nor what they had stumbled upon. But one thing was clear: this valley still held treasures waiting to be uncovered. Chapter 50: The Hidden Legacy The valley was quiet, yet beneath its serene facade, Tao and Jian knew they had little time. The ashen robed cultivators were determined to enter this realm and had evidently been planning for a long time. Long enough to have secured the location with a formation that only Shenli could break. That meant there was something here worth taking. Jian exhaled slowly, his grip on his sword still tight. "We should move. If those robed figures get through, we don¡¯t want to be here when they arrive." Tao nodded, scanning the valley¡¯s untouched formations. Weak remnants of defensive arrays flickered along the terraces and stone paths, some barely holding together, others still glowing with ancient energy. Whatever this sect had once been, it was clear they had gone to great lengths to protect something. They moved cautiously, stopping at the first intact formation that flickered weakly over a cluster of overgrown terraced fields. Through the shimmering barrier, they could make out rows of spirit plants, their auras dense, untouched by time. Some glowed with faint golden light, others pulsed with deep green hues, radiating medicinal potency far beyond what they had seen before. Jian frowned. "This formation still holds, even after all these years. We can¡¯t break it through technique, can we?" Tao shook his head. "No. But it¡¯s old. If we keep attacking it, draining it of Qi, it will collapse." Together, they struck, sending waves of Qi crashing against the formation. It rippled and resisted, but with every impact, the energy holding it together weakened. Minutes passed, sweat forming on their brows, before the barrier finally flickered and shattered. The scent of untouched spirit herbs immediately filled the air. Jian crouched near a lush stalk of some sort of grass that gave off waves of heat. "These are still in perfect condition." He plucked one carefully, storing it away. "This must be higher than profound grade. I bet we could sell materials like these for a fortune." Tao, meanwhile, had his eyes on a different plant, blue with petals curling in on themselves, exuding a soft, misty aura. He carefully excavated it from the soil and stored it in his satchel. He wasn''t sure if he could store plants he wanted to keep alive in his spatial ring. He had heard that artifacts like these would only hold inanimate objects. He wanted to try and preserve the plant if possible. He moved over and plucked a couple of stalks of the fiery grass. "We can¡¯t take everything," Jian reminded him. "It took us a long time to bring down that formation. The pavilion is still our priority. We can¡¯t be here when those cultivators break in." Tao nodded, though part of him hated leaving treasures behind. But there was no time. The ashen robed cultivators could enter at any moment. Reluctantly, he righted himself and followed Jian hastily towards the pavilion. Unlike the overgrown terraces, the pavilion had withstood time itself. Its dark wooden beams, polished and adorned with delicate carvings, remained untouched by decay. A soft golden glow flickered along the edges of its tiled roof, the last remnants of protective formations still clinging to their purpose. Jian stepped cautiously up the stone steps. "Whatever¡¯s inside... it was meant to last." The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Tao followed, pushing open the heavy doors with measured force. Inside, the air was thick with medicinal fragrance. The room before them was lined with jade shelves. They seemed to have been designed to house jade slips and scrolls, but only a few remained. Evidently, the previous owners had hastily packed the most valuable ones before leaving. At the centre, a pill furnace sat cold, its surface etched with complex inscriptions. It was rust red in colour and seemed incredibly valuable. ¡°Do you think this is what the cultivators were after?¡± asked Tao. Jian didn¡¯t reply immediately. He was looking at one of the texts he had taken from the jade shelf. ¡°Tao, come and take a look at this,¡± he muttered in disbelief. Tao strode over and followed his gaze to the flaking parchment grasped in Jian¡¯s hands. ¡°This looks like an advanced text on alchemy. What grade do you think this is?¡± ¡°This must be at least a Foundation Establishment level manual,¡± murmured Jian. Jian ran his fingers over an ancient alchemical text, its pages brittle with age. "This place... it¡¯s not just a cultivation ground. It must have been an alchemist¡¯s sanctuary." Tao nodded. "A place where high grade herbs were meant to be refined, not just grown." Among the jade slips, they found a technique on soil refinement. They carefully stored the scripts and scrolls in Tao¡¯s ring and were just about to move back to the pill furnace to try and find a way to take it when they heard approaching footsteps. The ashen robed cultivators had entered the realm. ¡°Leave the furnace. We need to get out quickly,¡± Jian said sharply. Tao was about to respond when Shenli¡¯s voice slithered into his mind, smooth and taunting as ever. Oh? Are you really leaving so soon? And here I thought you had a shred of intelligence. Hah, typical. Just when things get interesting, you want to run. Tao stiffened. "Shenli..." Jian glanced at him, but before he could ask, a sudden pressure bore down on them. The very fabric of the pavilion seemed to unravel before their eyes. The jade shelves, the rust coloured pill furnace, everything flickered, twisted, and then vanished like a dissipating mirage. Shenli clicked his tongue, amusement curling in his voice. Look around, little cultivator. This place is too neat, too¡­ curated. Do you really think this is all there is? Tsk, I almost feel sorry for you. Tao barely had time to process Shenli¡¯s words before reality shattered. They were no longer in the same pavilion. The space around them was vast, far more imposing than what they had seen above. The air was thick with ancient Qi, pressing against their skin like unseen hands. Before them stood a towering stone stele, covered in intricate carvings that pulsed faintly with power. The inscriptions burned into their eyes, filling them with an overwhelming sense of something vast, something beyond them. And at the base of the stele sat a small golden furnace, its rim decorated with coiling dragons, their open maws seemingly frozen mid roar. Jian inhaled sharply. "What is this place? How did we end up here?" Tao swallowed. "This must be the legacy they are after... It¡¯s incredible." Shenli chuckled, his tone dripping with satisfaction. Ah, there we go. I was starting to get bored. What was above was just a distraction. Learn quickly... unless, of course, you don¡¯t care about surviving what comes next. Chapter 51: The Sects Take Action The cold moonlight poured through the dense canopy of the Outer Wilds, casting shifting silver patterns upon the clearing below. Three figures stood at its heart, their presence alone commanding the very air around them. Patriarch Yu Tian of the Verdant Dawn Sect, Patriarch Xiang Wuyi of the Iron Tower Sect, and the leading elder of Medicine Valley faced one another, their expressions grave. The weight of their decision pressed upon the night, the silence between them crackling with spiritual energy. Suspended in the air before them, a jade tablet inscribed with intricate golden script rotated slowly, exuding a faint celestial radiance. This was no ordinary contract, it was a blood bound pact, sealed by the ancient "Celestial Binding Seal." Elder Xue Li from Medicine Valley had brought the seal with him to ensure none reneged from their words. Yu Tian, his sharp eyes glinting beneath the moon¡¯s glow, exuded quiet authority. His robes, though lacking ornamentation, carried the weight of his station, a testament to his resilience and wisdom earned through countless trials. Without hesitation, he raised his hand, a single drop of blood welling at his fingertip before falling onto the jade tablet. The seal flared momentarily, absorbing his essence. Xiang Wuyi followed, his towering frame clad in an iron threaded robe, his movements as precise and unshakable. His blood merged seamlessly into the formation. Finally, the elder from Medicine Valley stepped forward, his face unreadable, as he too completed the ritual. The jade tablet trembled violently before a deep hum resonated through the clearing, as though the heavens themselves acknowledged the pact. The golden script slithered off its surface like living creatures, burrowing into the bodies of those who had sworn their oath. The seal had marked them. No one could escape its decree, not without facing a retribution far worse than death. "It is done," Xue Li intoned, his voice carrying the weight of finality. "No cultivator above the Foundation Establishment realm shall enter the legacy realm. The Verdant Dawn Sect may bring five, including Elder Jianyu. The Iron Tower Sect shall send ten, including two elders. Medicine Valley shall send twenty, four of whom shall be elders, all below Foundation Establishment." The elders of Medicine Valley exchanged the briefest of glances. Unlike the others, they knew more than just rumours of what lay within. While the Verdant Dawn and Iron Tower Sects sought Heaven grade herbs and Foundation Establishment techniques, Medicine Valley had its sights set on the true inheritance buried within the realm. Yet, they remained silent. Let the others grasp blindly at the surface while they reached for the depths. With the pact sealed, the three sect leaders raised their hands, pouring their Qi into the jade tablet. Instantly, golden beams shot skyward, illuminating the night as the very air trembled. The ancient formation, long buried beneath layers of dust and time, stirred. Faint runes shimmered to life, flickering like dying embers before igniting in full force. Then, with a deep rumble, the ground split apart, and a towering stone gate materialized from the void, its surface carved with celestial symbols. At its core swirled a vortex of unstable energy, a gateway to the unknown. The moment the portal stabilized, the earth trembled, and suddenly a colossal figure emerged. Forged from obsidian stone and imbued with spiritual energy, the guardian stood like an unmovable monolith, its burning blue eyes surveying those before it. When it spoke, its voice was like rolling thunder, carrying the weight of an ancient decree. The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. "Only those who qualify may pass. None above the threshold may enter." Xiang Wuyi stepped forward; his iron spear gripped tightly in his hand. Without hesitation, his Qi surged, pouring into the weapon until it vibrated with barely restrained power. With a single breath, he exploded into motion, launching a storm of devastating strikes. The guardian reacted instantly, raising an arm, and the very roots of the forest answered its call, twisting and hardening into an impenetrable shield of ancient wood. Xue Li¡¯s gaze sharpened. "We bind it now!" His hands blurred into a series of complex seals. Yu Tian and Xiang Wuyi followed suit, weaving their techniques into the formation. Chains of green Qi materialized, wrapping around the guardian like ethereal serpents, constricting its movements. The guardian roared, struggling against its bonds, but the combined might of three Foundation Establishment cultivators held firm. Yu Tian turned to Jianyu, his voice resolute. "Now is our chance! Go!" Elder Jianyu, a mountain of a man with broad shoulders and a weathered face, moved without hesitation. His sharp eyes locked onto the portal as he led the chosen inner sect disciples forward. The moment Jianyu and his disciples leaped forward, the portal roared, its swirling depths shifting like a living thing. Space warped, pressure crashed down upon them from all sides, as if unseen hands were trying to tear them apart. Jianyu gritted his teeth, forcing his Qi to stabilize his body as his vision blurred. For a breathless eternity, they fell through nothingness, until suddenly, they were hurled forward. The moment they landed, the silence shattered. The realm was anything but peaceful. In the distance, the echoes of battle rang through the landscape. Figures in ashen robes surged toward them like spectres from a nightmare, their movements fluid, inhumanly precise. Their faces were hidden beneath dark hoods. Without hesitation, they attacked. Swords clashed, techniques erupted, and the sky was soon painted with streaks of fire and lightning. A Verdant Dawn disciple barely had time to react before an ashen robed figure descended upon him, a jagged dagger aimed at his heart. Jianyu moved like a phantom, intercepting the strike with a thunderous clash of steel. His blade carved a deadly arc, forcing the enemy back, but more were coming. Chaos reigned. The Iron Tower Sect disciples unleashed devastating spear techniques, their weapons shimmering with reinforced Qi, but the ashen robed cultivators were relentless. They fought without fear, without hesitation, their eerie coordination making them an overwhelming force. Blood splattered across the ground as disciples from all sects scrambled to gain the upper hand, their alliances forgotten in the heat of battle. Above the carnage, the elders of Medicine Valley moved with singular purpose. They did not linger to fight; instead, they sped toward the grand pavilion in the distance, their robes rippled like the fumes of a pill furnace, vanishing into the chaos around them. Whatever knowledge they possessed about this realm, they clearly deemed it more valuable than engaging in the skirmish before them. Jianyu gritted his teeth, cutting through another opponent. His instincts screamed at him; this was no ordinary battle. If he wanted to survive, he would need more than just skill. He would need to seize his destiny before someone else did. Chapter 52: The Alchemist’s Trial
The moment Shenli¡¯s words faded, the chamber trembled. The stele flared, its inscriptions searing with light as if recognizing the presence of intruders. The golden furnace pulsed, embers rising from its surface like fireflies. A voice, deep and unrelenting, echoed from the stone itself, rippling through the air like a judge delivering a sentence.
¡°The path of fire and root is not for the unworthy. Those who fail shall be reduced to ash and dust.¡±
The space around them warped. A force gripped Tao and Jian, yanking them apart like puppets cut from their strings. The chamber, the stele, the furnace, all of it collapsed into nothingness.
Tao hit the ground hard. He coughed, forcing himself upright, eyes darting around. He was no longer in the chamber. Around him, plants grew at unnatural speeds, twisting toward the sky, their leaves unfurling with desperate hunger. The scent of soil was thick, almost overwhelming, but something was wrong. The roots beneath his feet pulsed, writhing like veins, and the moment he moved, the earth lurched, dragging him down knee deep into the dirt.
A whisper curled through the air, the same voice from before, colder now, merciless.
¡°The land does not suffer those who take without understanding. Restore what has been broken or be swallowed whole.¡±
The ground tightened. Tao fought against it, but the more he struggled, the deeper he sank. The plants were draining the life from the soil too quickly, gorging themselves on its essence. The balance was collapsing. He needed to stabilize it, but how? Panic clawed at the edges of his mind. This wasn¡¯t just a test; the trial meant to kill him.
He forced himself to think. The scrolls he had taken from the pavilion, the soil refinement techniques, the balance of Qi circulation in cultivation fields. He had briefly looked through them but never tested them. He closed his eyes, pushing his Qi downward, not to fight the pull, but to mend the imbalance. His breath came sharp as he wove his energy into the land, threading it through the roots, forcing them to take only what was necessary, to hold back their greed.
The resistance was immense. The soil fought him, the plants resisted, but Tao gritted his teeth and pushed harder, his Qi flickering under the strain. The land trembled beneath him. Then¡­ If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
Stillness.
The roots loosened. The plants ceased their frantic feeding. The ground released its hold on him, and Tao stumbled forward, gasping for breath. The oppressive weight in the air eased, and though the plants still swayed, they no longer reached hungrily for him. The voice whispered once more, this time quieter, almost approving.
¡°You understand.¡±
Then the world shattered.
Jian barely had time to cry out before he was consumed by fire. It coiled around him, rising in pillars of crimson and gold, seething with the promise of destruction. A pill floated before him, its form unstable, shuddering as though caught between completion and ruin. The heat licked at his skin, and the flames surged closer. He raised his arm on instinct, but the fire did not burn him, it tested him, pressing against his very essence.
The voice returned, no less merciful than before. ¡°Alchemy is not for the reckless. To forge without control is to shatter the balance of life itself.¡±
Jian clenched his teeth. He had never refined a pill before. He barely understood alchemy beyond what little he had read in passing. But the text he had taken, the alchemical script from the pavilion, had been profound. He had left it with Tao but could still remember parts of what he had read. He tried desperately to scour his memories for a method that could help him stabilize the flames.
The script had detailed the harmony of fire and Qi, how to balance conflicting energies during pill refinement. His mind raced. The flames weren¡¯t just fire, they were fighting each other, devouring the pill instead of tempering it. Jian adjusted his Qi, mimicking what he had seen alchemists do, controlling the flow as if he were redirecting an opponent¡¯s blade. The flames resisted, twisting violently. He forced himself to move with them instead of against them, finding the natural rhythm in their chaotic dance.
The pill pulsed. The fire grew wild. Jian gritted his teeth and held firm, steadying the energy, forcing it into balance. The fire stabilized.
The moment it did, the trial collapsed around him.
He staggered, breath ragged, and found himself back in the stone chamber. Tao was there, panting, dirt still clinging to his robes. The golden furnace hummed softly between them. The stele¡¯s inscriptions, once unreadable, now blazed with clarity, their meaning laid bare.
A passage opened beneath the stone, a staircase leading downward into the unknown.
Shenli¡¯s voice returned, velvety and smug. Not bad. I was almost convinced you were going to die.
Jian exhaled sharply, hands still trembling. ¡°What¡¯s next?¡±
Tao straightened, gaze locked on the open path ahead. ¡°We keep going.¡±
They had passed the trial. But the inheritance had yet to be claimed. Chapter 53: Descent into the Inheritance Hall
Tao didn¡¯t hesitate. With a swift motion, he placed the golden furnace into his storage ring. ¡°We¡¯ll split everything later,¡± he murmured, glancing at Jian. There was no time for arguments.
Jian gave a curt nod. They both knew this was the best way. Tao had the storage ring, and they needed to move fast.
The staircase before them yawned open like the gaping maw of a beast, leading them deeper into the earth. Cold air coiled around them, thick with the residue of Qi from a forgotten era. The walls flanking the passage gleamed with silver inscriptions, ancient carvings winding through the stone like veins of spirit energy. Tao¡¯s sharp eyes traced the etchings, and his steps slowed as he realized what they depicted.
Two figures.
Jian ran a hand over the carved images. One was a woman, kneeling in a field of flourishing spirit plants, strands of Qi flowing between her fingers as the earth itself seemed to answer her call. The second was a man, standing before a pill furnace, flames licking up his arms as he refined herbs into pills. Their expressions were calm, their presence undiminished by time. Not one legacy but two. One cultivated spirit plants and the other refined them.
Jian exhaled. ¡°This wasn¡¯t just an alchemist¡¯s domain. This was a partnership.¡±
Tao nodded, his gaze lingering on the woman¡¯s carving. He had always known there was more to cultivation than just brute force, that the true power of plants and herbs came from their harmony with Qi itself. This confirmed it. His fingers curled slightly, but he forced himself to move on. The passage wasn¡¯t waiting for them.
Ghostly blue flames lined the walls ahead, flickering with an unsettling rhythm. Jian¡¯s hand drifted toward his sword. ¡°These flames,¡± he muttered, voice low, ¡°they feel wrong.¡±
Tao agreed but didn¡¯t respond. Something was watching. Or perhaps, something was waiting.
The passage opened into an underground chamber, a vast space supported by towering pillars carved in the shape of twisting vines, their leaves so finely detailed it seemed as though they might tremble under a passing breeze. The scent of old medicinal herbs still lingered, but there was no sign of decay. At the heart of the chamber, two stone altars stood side by side, each cradling a single jade slip. The moment Tao laid eyes on them, he understood. You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
One for spirit plant cultivation. One for alchemy.
Jian was already moving, his fingers brushing against one of the slips, but a sudden force repelled him, sharp as an invisible hand shoving him back. He grumbled in frustration before turning to the other. This time, the energy relented, allowing him to take the jade slip inscribed with the alchemy legacy. Tao, watching closely, reached for the remaining slip. That same force resisted him at first but then softened, as if recognizing something within him. The alters only provided the legacy for the trial they had taken and passed. As his fingers closed around the jade slip meant for spirit plant cultivation, the chamber trembled.
Light erupted from the altars, flooding the room with a blinding radiance. The carvings on the walls flared to life, the vines twisting and curling as if they had awoken from slumber. Then, from the very stone itself, two people appeared.
Two figures, formed of light and memory. One was the man from the carvings, his robes marked with flame like embroidery, his expression serious. The other was the woman, her hands still streaked with soil, spirit plants blooming at her feet. They looked upon Tao and Jian, their gazes heavy with something close to approval. And then¡­
They smiled.
In the next instant, their forms shattered into motes of glowing dust, dissolving into the very air.
The ground lurched beneath them. A deep, shuddering crack split through the chamber as the pillars trembled, dust cascading from above. The air groaned, the weight of centuries bearing down upon them. The inheritance had been claimed, but the space that housed it was no longer stable.
Before them, a portal flared into existence, swirling with shifting energy. An exit. Perhaps.
Jian didn¡¯t move immediately. ¡°That portal¡­ is it safe?¡±
Tao¡¯s instincts screamed at him. They didn¡¯t have time. He turned sharply toward the staircase, and his blood ran cold. Footsteps descending, distant yet unmistakable, echoed down the staircase to the chamber.
Shenli¡¯s voice slithered into his mind, a whisper laced with something between amusement and warning. Little cultivator, you are out of time.
Tao¡¯s grip on the jade slip tightened. Jian¡¯s sword left its sheath in a smooth motion. They had to go¡­now.
They lunged for the portal just as figures emerged at the chamber¡¯s entrance. The robes of the Medicine Hall eldersbillowed as they stepped into view, their gazes narrowing as they took in the scene before them. Their eyes flickered toward the departing cultivators, and an angry voice, laced with indignation, rang out. But the portal swallowed Tao and Jian before their identities could be revealed.
The inheritance had been taken. And the chase had begun. Chapter 54: The Blood Pavilion The pavilion stood in the depths of the secret realm, untouched by time yet veiled in illusion. Crimson walls, dark with age, pulsed faintly with lingering energy, their veins of blackened script crawling across the surface like dried blood. The scent of iron hung thick in the air, soaked into the very foundations of the forgotten hall. For centuries, it had remained hidden, sealed away behind layers of deception, but now the illusion had been unravelled, and two figures stepped through its dissolving veil. They moved without hesitation, cloaked in flowing ashen robes embroidered with deep red patterns, the mark of Blood Refining Sect elders. Their masks, fashioned in the likeness of snarling beasts, concealed their faces, but the way they carried themselves spoke of power and purpose. The woman, her figure curved and deliberate in every movement, let out a soft laugh as her fingers trailed along the air. The man, broad shouldered and exuding barely restrained aggression, surveyed the space with a sharp, predatory gaze. The chamber before them was bathed in muted red light, the glow emanating from a formation at its centre. Resting atop a black stone altar, a blood coloured tome hovered just above the surface, suspended by the remnants of an ancient protective array. The runes carved into the air flickered erratically, their once unbreakable power faltering with the weight of time. The book trembled as if sensing their arrival, as if recognizing the hands that had once belonged to its true masters. The woman tilted her head, amusement dancing in her voice. "How stubborn. Even after all these years, it still clings to its duty." The man scoffed; his tone edged with impatience. "A rotting chain trying to bind something beyond its grasp. Let¡¯s put it out of its misery." He raised a hand, dark Qi coiling around his fingers like serpents before lashing toward the formation. The sigils flared violently, resisting for a moment before beginning to crack. The woman moved beside him, her own Qi flowing in languid waves, seeking out the weaknesses in the formation and prying them apart with almost sensual precision. The ancient protections, once woven with masterful skill, had long since weakened. Now, under their combined efforts, the barrier crumbled. A sharp crack echoed through the room as the last of the runes shattered, and the tome fell back on top of the altar, free at last. The woman reached for it, lifting it with reverence, her fingers tracing the aged cover. Her lips curled as if savouring the taste of long awaited victory. "We have waited too long for this." The man folded his arms, watching her with a dark expression. "Too long, and it is only a piece. The true legacy is still scattered. Without it, we are incomplete." The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. She chuckled, the sound rich and teasing. "And yet, with this, we are closer than any before us. The Blood Refining Sect was cast aside, its inheritance stolen, its name reduced to whispers. But now, dear brother, we hold something worth fearing again." His eyes gleamed with the same fire that burned in her voice. "With this, we will have more say in the Demonic Alliance. No longer treated as mere dogs." She stepped closer, her breath warm against his ear, voice a silken whisper. "And do you think our noble sect leader will allow us to claim that power so easily? Now that he has reached Foundation Establishment, he sees further than we do. He is not the reckless man he once was." The man clenched his fist, his Qi flaring for the briefest moment. "He unified us with strength, and strength demands rewards. If he believes this will remain in his hands alone, he underestimates the ambition of those who bled for this sect." She laughed softly, pressing the tome against her chest. "Then we will see how well he holds his throne." A ripple passed through the air, subtle but undeniable. The walls trembled ever so slightly, as if the very foundation of the Blood Pavilion was aware of what had just been taken. The blood red flames that lined the chamber flickered, their glow stretching unnaturally across the floor. The woman¡¯s smile did not waver, but she tilted her head, sensing the shift. "It seems the pavilion does not approve of our theft." The man exhaled sharply, already turning toward the exit. "Then we leave before it finds a way to protest." She followed, steps unhurried despite the weight of the tome in her grasp. As they vanished into the shadows beyond the pavilion¡¯s threshold, the entire structure gave a low, guttural groan. The crimson walls pulsed erratically, the black script that once lay dormant beginning to shift, twisting as if coming to life. A sudden gust of wind howled through the chamber, though there were no openings for air to pass through. Then, the first fissure split the floor, glowing veins of blood red energy spiderwebbing outward, carving through stone like molten fire. The realm itself was reacting. The blood flames surged to impossible heights, the once dim light now an inferno of violent scarlet. The pavilion shuddered as more cracks spread across its foundations, chunks of stone and wood breaking loose and vanishing into the void. The air became thick, suffocating, pressing down with an unseen force that whispered of impending collapse. A deep, resonant pulse echoed from the very walls, no longer a passive structure but an enraged beast awakening from slumber. From within the collapsing chamber, a voice, twisted and ancient, hissed through the burning air, though its words were indistinct, swallowed by the chaos. The blood pavilion was devouring itself. The two masked figures did not look back. They had what they came for. And the realm, furious at their trespass, was tearing itself apart. Chapter 55: The Cost of Ambition
The battlefield was chaos. Jianyu and the Verdant Dawn Sect disciples barely had enough time to fend of the ashen robed cultivators and snatch a few spirit plants before they were surrounded.
Jianyu¡¯s blade carved through the air, a gleaming arc of steel clashing against a blood hued chain. Sparks burst in the night as the attack forced him backward, his feet grinding against the fractured earth. His disciples fought beside him, their faces taut with determination, but the ashen robed cultivators pressed forward with relentless, unnatural grace.
These were no ordinary opponents. Their movements were fluid, eerily precise, as if guided by something beyond mere skill. The air around them was thick with the scent of copper, and the moment their Qi flared, the blood mist that swirled around them deepened, growing more saturated with every wound they inflicted.
Jianyu had fought many battles before, but this was different. This was suffocating.
Lin Yue, ever composed even in battle, sidestepped an attack, her twin daggers gleaming in the dim light. "Something is wrong with them," she called out, her voice calm but urgent. "They are not just absorbing Qi. They are stealing our vitality!"
As if to answer her, one of the Blood Refining Sect disciples lunged at Luo Chen, his arms twisting in unnatural ways. The robes around his forearm burned away to reveal skin marred with pulsating crimson lines. With a flick of his wrist, a spear of coagulated blood shot forth, moving too fast to react.
The weapon pierced Luo Chen¡¯s chest clean through.
For a breath, he remained standing, his lips parting in silent shock. Then, the blood within him surged outward, pulled by an unseen force. His body withered instantly, skin clinging to bone as if decades of life had been drained in seconds. What remained collapsed to the ground, nothing more than a husk.
A crimson vapor rose from his corpse, twisting and curling before it was absorbed by the hooded cultivator who had struck him down. His Qi flared, growing stronger.
Yin Rufeng recoiled. "What kind of demonic technique¡­"
Lin Yue did not waste time speaking. With a flick of her wrist, she hurled one of her daggers at the enemy, aiming directly for his throat. It struck true, the blade biting into flesh, but rather than blood spilling, the wound writhed and then sealed itself shut as if it had never been.
The ashen robed cultivator tilted his head, voice muffled beneath his hood. "Your struggle is admirable, but futile."
Lin Yue¡¯s grip tightened on her remaining weapon.
Jianyu¡¯s mind raced. Every strike they landed, every wound they inflicted, was rendered meaningless. The moment their attacks connected, the enemy would siphon the blood from their surroundings to heal. If they did not end this quickly, the battle would stretch beyond their endurance. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
Lin Yue moved first. Her body flickered, vanishing into a blur of speed as she weaved between her enemies, her daggers flashing. A second later, she was upon the robed woman leading the Blood Refining Sect disciples.
A sharp laugh met her assault.
"Too slow."
The moment Lin Yue¡¯s blade aimed for the woman¡¯s heart, a red mist coiled from the ground, latching onto Lin Yue¡¯s arms like grasping hands. She tried to wrench herself free, but the mist thickened, becoming solid tendrils of blood that wrapped around her limbs, pulling her toward her foe.
The woman¡¯s voice was laced with amusement. "Your Qi is strong. Let us see how sweet it tastes."
Lin Yue¡¯s eyes widened as she felt her meridians constrict, something foreign invading her veins, leeching her strength. She bit her tongue hard enough to draw blood, forcing her Qi to flare, but it was too late.
The blood mist surged inward.
She screamed.
The sound of bones breaking filled the night as her body spasmed violently. The red tendrils constricted tighter, lifting her from the ground. Her skin paled, the very life being torn from her in agonizing increments. Jianyu moved to intervene, his sword blazing with Qi, but the ashen robed cultivator he was entangled with thrust out a palm, releasing a crimson shockwave that sent him skidding backward.
Lin Yue¡¯s body jerked as more of her blood was pulled away, drawn into the swirling mist that fed the woman holding her captive. Her scream cut off, her head tilting forward slightly as her strength bled from her.
Then, with a sickening snap, her body collapsed into nothing but a mass of crimson droplets that dissolved into the mist.
The woman inhaled softly, as if tasting the lingering essence in the air. "Exquisite."
Yin Rufeng let out a choked sound, his blade trembling in his grasp. Jianyu, blood pounding in his ears, gritted his teeth so hard his jaw ached. He had seen death before. He had seen comrades fall in battle. But never like this. Never reduced to something so inhuman.
He exhaled sharply. No. He would not let another die here.
Yin Rufeng, still frozen in horror, barely noticed when Jianyu grabbed him by the collar and forced him back. "Control yourself or you will die next."
The battlefield trembled beneath their feet. At first, it was a faint shudder, but then the ground cracked open in jagged, violent ruptures. Jianyu¡¯s breath stilled. Something was happening.
The sky flickered at the edges, colours twisting unnaturally. The Qi in the air became wild, unstable. The once pristine formations that had held the realm together for centuries were unravelling all at once.
Jianyu did not hesitate. He grabbed Yin Rufeng and turned. The ashen robbed cultivators hesitated, sensing the shift in the air. Even they seemed uncertain now, their own bodies flickering with erratic Qi surges.
A swirling gateway had suddenly appeared at the far end of the battlefield, its surface rippling as if barely holding together.
Jianyu¡¯s mind raced. They had no choice.
"Run!"
They broke into a desperate sprint, their bodies aching, their Qi nearly spent. The realm shuddered violently, as if it were taking its final breath before collapse. Just as Jianyu and Yin Rufeng reached the portal¡¯s threshold, he cast one last glance back.
The masked woman stood amidst the bloodstained ground, watching them leave. Behind her, the air rippled, the very walls of the realm bending.
Her lips curled into a knowing smile.
Jianyu¡¯s fists clenched. This was not over.
With a final step, he plunged into the portal, the world swallowing him whole. Chapter 56: A Moment of Respite
The cave was barely more than a hollow carved into the base of an ancient tree, its gnarled roots curling overhead like the grasping fingers of some slumbering beast. The Black Hollow Forest loomed outside, a restless abyss of twisted branches and shifting shadows. Within, the air was damp and heavy, but it was quiet, a temporary sanctuary from the bloodshed and chaos they had left behind. A fragile calm settled, draping itself over Tao and Jian like the hush after a storm. Their bodies bore the weight of battle, wounds hastily tended, breaths still uneven, as they sat in the dim glow of their temporary refuge, each lost in the echoes of their relentless journey.
Tao sat cross legged beside a feeble fire, its flickering amber light waging a desperate war against the oppressive darkness. The flames danced in his weary eyes, reflecting not just the fire¡¯s restless movement but the torrent of thoughts that raged within him. Fatigue hung over him like a heavy cloak, yet beneath it, a quiet resolve burned just as fiercely. His mind drifted through the web of trials endured and the razor thin line between survival and oblivion they had walked, each memory another ember in the inferno of his determination.
Across from him, Jian slumped against the rough stone wall, his chest rising and falling in slow, measured breaths. The scent of medicinal herbs lingered between them, a faint reminder of the healing pills they had just consumed.
Jian exhaled sharply, rubbing a hand through his dishevelled hair. ¡°It keeps happening,¡± he muttered, his voice low, almost bitter. ¡°Every step we take, every battle we fight, we barely make it out alive. It¡¯s like we¡¯re always a breath away from being buried in the dirt.¡±
Tao didn¡¯t answer immediately. His fingers tapped idly against his knee, his mind tracing the events that had led them here. The ashen robbed cultivators, the inheritance hall, the cultivators that discovered them obtaining the inheritance, the portal swallowing them just in time. They had survived, but survival alone was not enough.
Jian scoffed softly, shaking his head. ¡°We¡¯re too weak.¡±
Tao¡¯s gaze shifted to him. ¡°We are,¡± he admitted. ¡°But we¡¯re getting stronger.¡±
Jian let out a humourless laugh. ¡°Not fast enough.¡± He tilted his head back against the stone, eyes narrowing. ¡°I need to break through to the fifth layer of Qi Refining as soon as possible. If I had been just a little stronger back there, maybe we wouldn¡¯t have had to flee so desperately.¡±
Tao regarded him carefully before nodding. ¡°Then focus on breaking through. But don¡¯t push past the fifth layer.¡± If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
Jian frowned. ¡°What?¡±
Tao sighed, rubbing his temples. ¡°You know why. That cultivation manual you took from the Iron Tower Sect goes all the way to the 9th layer. If you advance beyond the 5th layer without obtaining the latter part of the Verdant Dawn Sect¡¯s official technique, you¡¯ll raise suspicion.¡±
Jian was silent for a moment, his jaw tightening.
Tao continued, his voice calm but firm. ¡°If the elders find out, they¡¯ll start asking questions. And if they figure out what you¡¯ve been practicing¡­¡±
Jian let out a slow breath, frustration flickering in his eyes. ¡°I know,¡± he muttered. ¡°I know. But the sect¡¯s cultivation method is slow. Too slow.¡±
Tao looked away, staring into the darkness beyond the cave¡¯s entrance. ¡°That¡¯s because only core members have the complete manual. Without the second half, your progress will stall eventually.¡±
Jian¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I have advanced faster in my cultivation in the Wilds than those years spent in the sect.¡±
Tao didn¡¯t answer. He didn¡¯t need to. They both knew it was true.
Silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken thoughts. The flickering firelight cast long shadows across the cave walls, distorting their figures into something half real, half nightmare.
Jian ran a hand down his face, his exhaustion evident. ¡°Tao¡­ do you ever think about leaving the sect?¡±
Tao¡¯s fingers stilled. His expression didn¡¯t change, but Jian caught the way his shoulders tensed, the brief flicker of calculation in his eyes.
Jian leaned forward slightly, his voice quieter now. ¡°Look at what we¡¯ve achieved since entering the Wilds. We¡¯ve grown more in these past days than we have in the years we spent under the sect¡¯s rules. What¡¯s keeping us there?¡±
Tao studied him for a long moment before answering. ¡°Stability.¡±
Jian scoffed. ¡°Stability?¡±
Tao nodded. ¡°Leaving is possible, but not yet. We¡¯re not strong enough to survive as rogue cultivators. Right now, the sect gives us protection. Without it, we¡¯re just two loose cultivators wandering the world with treasures others would kill for.¡±
Jian frowned, his fingers curling against his knee. ¡°So what? We just bide our time? Keep playing by their rules until we¡¯re strong enough?¡±
Tao¡¯s gaze was steady. ¡°Yes.¡±
Jian looked away, frustration clear in the set of his jaw, but he didn¡¯t argue. Deep down, he knew Tao was right. The Wilds had given them a taste of what true strength meant, but it had also shown them how fragile their lives were in the face of those stronger than them.
For now, they had no choice but to endure.
Jian let out a slow breath, rubbing a hand over his face before glancing at Tao. ¡°We have treasures others would kill for. What do we do next?¡±
Tao didn¡¯t answer immediately. Instead, he reached into his storage ring, fingers brushing against the jade slips, the herbs, the furnace, all the spoils they had risked their lives for. His grip tightened.
Outside, the forest murmured with unseen movements, the mist shifting like restless spirits drawn to their presence. It was time to decide what came next.
Tao exhaled, his gaze sharpening. ¡°We take stock of what we have. Then we decide how to use it.¡± Chapter 57: Weighing the Spoils The cave flickered with the dim light of dying embers, the air thick with the lingering scent of smoke and damp earth. The fire had burned low, its warmth barely warding off the chill that seeped from the forest beyond. Outside, the Black Hollow Forest whispered, the gnarled branches rustling like unseen hands reaching through the darkness. Tao and Jian sat within the narrow hollow, their bodies weary but their minds restless, the weight of their journey pressing upon them like an unshakable burden. Tao unfastened his satchel with careful fingers, the leather worn and stained from travel. One by one, he withdrew the spoils of their venture. A stalk of crimson grass, its edges still faintly warm, as though the embers of an ancient fire smouldered within. A delicate flower curled blue petals exuding a mist like aura, cool and strangely calming. Finally, Jian reached into his own robes and retrieved a handful of the same fiery grass, placing it beside Tao¡¯s findings. Jian let out a slow breath, watching as Tao arranged them with deliberate care. His voice was quieter now, thoughtful. ¡°We could only take a few, and even that almost got us killed. What do we do with them?¡± Tao ran his fingers lightly over the stem of the crimson grass, feeling the residual heat against his skin. ¡°We don¡¯t even know what they are.¡± His gaze lingered on the blue flower, a strange pull settling in his chest. ¡°But whatever they are, they¡¯re worth more than anything we¡¯ve ever come across before.¡± Jian studied the plants in silence before asking, ¡°What are our options?¡± Tao didn¡¯t answer immediately. The flickering fire cast long, shifting shadows across the cave walls, their shapes stretching and curling like spectres in the dark. He exhaled. ¡°We have a few.¡± His fingers traced the delicate veins in the blue petals. ¡°We could turn them in to the sect for sect points.¡± Jian scoffed. ¡°And get what in return? A fraction of their worth? The elders would take the best ones for themselves.¡± Tao inclined his head slightly. He had expected that response. ¡°Then we could try cultivating them.¡± Jian frowned. ¡°You know how?¡± ¡°Not yet,¡± Tao admitted. ¡°But the texts we took from the pavilion, some of them had techniques for soil refinement, nurturing spirit plants. If I can understand them, we might be able to grow them ourselves.¡± Jian leaned back against the rough stone wall; his expression unreadable. ¡°And then what? Wait years for them to mature? These plants have probably been growing in that realm for centuries. We don¡¯t have that kind of time.¡± Tao considered his words, then nodded. ¡°Then we sell them. Not to the sect, but to an independent alchemist or a rogue cultivator. Spirit stones would be more useful to us than sect points.¡± Jian tapped his fingers against his knee, thinking. ¡°What about using them?¡± His gaze flickered toward the plants. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t consuming them directly give us a boost?¡± Tao exhaled, his lips pressing together in thought. ¡°Some plants can be consumed raw, but they won¡¯t be as effective as if they were refined into pills.¡± Jian¡¯s lips curled into a wry smirk. ¡°Good thing we just so happened to stumble into an alchemist¡¯s inheritance, then.¡± Tao met his gaze, the flickering firelight sharpening the edges of his face. ¡°Good thing.¡± Silence stretched between them, thick with contemplation. Finally, Jian reached into his robes and pulled out the jade slip he had claimed. He turned it over in his hands, testing its weight, as if seeking answers from the smooth, silent surface. ¡°Let¡¯s see what we actually inherited.¡± If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. Tao did the same, pressing his fingers against the cool jade. The moment his Qi touched it, the world around him seemed to dim, the cave¡¯s flickering firelight stretching into thin, wavering strands. A tide of knowledge surged into him. The Flourishing Root Scripture. A cultivation method unlike anything he had ever encountered. Instead of forcefully refining Qi, it drew power from nature itself. Spirit plants weren¡¯t just ingredients to be used; they could be nurtured, strengthened, and in return, they would strengthen him. The more he cultivated, the deeper his bond with the plants grew, unlocking a path of balance, vitality, and limitless potential. More than that, the slip held knowledge beyond just cultivation. Techniques for identifying seeds, estimating their growth potential, refining soil to accelerate maturation without sacrificing potency. And beyond that, a catalogue of spirit plants, their classifications unfolding in his mind like a sacred text. Profound Grade. Earth Grade. Heaven Grade. Then¡­ Tao¡¯s breath caught as the final classifications revealed themselves. Starfire Grade. Ethereal Grade. Plants that had only ever been spoken of in myth. Herbs rumoured to contain celestial energy. Methods of cultivation once thought impossible. Proof that they were more than just legend. A voice slithered into his thoughts like silk slipping through fingers, smooth and laced with mockery. ¡°Fascinating, isn¡¯t it?¡± Tao stiffened, his grip tightening around the jade slip. ¡°Shenli.¡± The fox spirit¡¯s voice curled with amusement. ¡°Ah, little cultivator, always so eager to chase the new. One jade slip, and you would cast aside what is already priceless?¡± Tao kept his face neutral. Jian was still lost in his own inheritance, unaware of the conversation happening within his companion¡¯s mind. ¡°This is real knowledge.¡± Shenli chuckled, though his tone held a note of disdain. ¡°Your technique is a jewel among stones, a treasure beyond these scraps. If you dilute it with lesser methods, you will shackle yourself before you even begin to climb.¡± Tao hesitated. ¡°This cultivation method¡­ it can take me to the peak of Foundation Establishment.¡± Shenli¡¯s tone sharpened; his amusement edged with something colder. ¡°Such small ambitions. If you truly believe what I have given you is worth less than this, then take it. Abandon the path. See how far you get.¡± Tao¡¯s jaw tightened. He had long suspected that his cultivation technique was anything but ordinary, yet Shenli had never revealed its origins. Even now, the fox spirit¡¯s voice carried the quiet certainty of someone humouring a child who did not know better. ¡°Learn from it,¡± Shenli murmured, almost indulgently. ¡°But do not think for a moment that it will carry you further than what you already possess.¡± Then, as swiftly as he had come, Shenli¡¯s presence faded, leaving Tao with only the flickering fire and the jade slip pressed against his palm. Across from him, Jian exhaled, his eyes still unfocused from the depth of his immersion. He let out a low whistle. ¡°This is¡­ more than I expected.¡± He turned the jade slip in his fingers. ¡°Molten Fire Alchemy Scripture. It¡¯s not just about refining pills, it¡¯s an entire cultivation method.¡± Tao studied him. ¡°What does it focus on?¡± Jian¡¯s expression shifted, his lips curling in thought. ¡°Strengthens Qi circulation for pill refinement, makes it easier to form pill flames, and lets the cultivator absorb medicinal essence while refining pills.¡± He hesitated before adding, ¡°And there are combat techniques. Battle methods that use alchemical fire.¡± Tao absorbed this quietly. A fighting style revolving around an alchemist¡¯s flames. Unlike anything Jian had studied before. Jian exhaled, gripping the jade slip tighter. ¡°If I master this, I won¡¯t just be an alchemist. I¡¯ll be a warrior and a refiner both.¡± Tao nodded. ¡°It fits you.¡± Jian smirked. ¡°Of course it does.¡± Then, after a pause, his expression darkened. ¡°But there is a problem.¡± Tao already knew. ¡°You cannot cultivate beyond the fifth layer.¡± Jian let out a bitter chuckle. ¡°Not without making the elders suspicious.¡± Tao gazed toward the mouth of the cave, where the forest loomed beyond the dim light. They had gained strength, knowledge, treasures beyond what they had dared to dream. And yet, the chains of the sect still hung heavy around them. For now. Chapter 58: Breaking Through The sun hung high in the sky, an unrelenting blaze of gold that drenched the grove in oppressive heat. The air was thick, cloying, heavy with the scent of sunbaked earth and the faint, resinous aroma of distant pines. Every leaf and blade of grass shimmered under the merciless light, their edges curling from the sheer intensity. Even the towering trees, their twisted roots gripping the soil like ancient claws, offered little respite. The shade beneath their canopies was thin, suffocated by the simmering warmth that clung to everything like a second skin. They had chosen this part of the Outer Wilds for their breakthrough because of the dense Qi and relatively safe environment. Tao and Jian sat opposite each other, their clothes damp with sweat, their breaths slow and deliberate as they fought against the sluggish exhaustion creeping into their limbs. The heat pressed down on them, relentless, turning every movement into an effort. The only sound was the occasional chirr of unseen insects, their droning hum blending into the weight of the afternoon stillness. They had laid out their spoils between them. The plants still faintly, radiating the kind of power that did not belong in the hands of mere Qi Refining cultivators. Tao let out a slow breath, his fingers tightening around the Serpent¡¯s Veil Lily. It¡¯s cold energy slithered against his skin, an eerie contrast to the burning sensation radiating from the Molten Ember Grass resting beside it. They had been able to identify the plants after absorbing the information from their legacies. Jian exhaled slowly, running a hand over his face. ¡°This is insane,¡± he muttered. ¡°Heaven grade. Not profound. Heaven.¡± Tao¡¯s gaze didn¡¯t leave the plants. ¡°I still think that if we refine them into pills, their effects will be at least three times stronger.¡± Jian snorted. ¡°Which would be great if I was a master alchemist. I barely managed to form a stable pill flame yesterday. Refining something like this would probably kill me.¡± Tao nodded. It was the truth. The slightest mistake in alchemy would waste the plants at best, or at worst, create an unstable reaction that could explode in their faces. Jian gave him a dry look. ¡°If we eat them whole, won¡¯t we explode from the intense Qi?¡± Tao didn¡¯t answer immediately. His fingers traced the edges of the Serpent¡¯s Veil Lily, his mind working through every possibility. They needed to extract the energy without being consumed by it. Raw absorption would be suicide. Refinement was too dangerous. A flicker of realization struck him. ¡°There might be a way.¡± Jian¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Go on.¡± Tao leaned forward. ¡°You said the Molten Fire Alchemy Scripture allows you to break down medicinal essence during refinement.¡± Jian frowned. ¡°Yeah, but that¡¯s for pill refinement.¡± ¡°What if you used it on yourself?¡± Jian blinked. Then, slowly, his expression twisted into something between intrigue and horror. ¡°You want me to refine my own body?¡± This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Tao held his gaze. ¡°It is better than being destroyed from the inside out.¡± Jian muttered something under his breath, rubbing his temples. ¡°This is the stupidest idea we¡¯ve ever had.¡± ¡°Yes, but you are considering it.¡± Jian exhaled sharply, shaking his head. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s say I do this. I will be able to break down the energy, but what about you?¡± Tao didn¡¯t answer immediately. He hadn¡¯t changed his cultivation method to the Flourishing Root Scripture. He was still cultivating the Unyielding Mountain Spirit. He had neglected the Fertile Spirit Nurturing Art Shenli had given him for a while, but the progress he had made with the Nurturing Cycle Root Technique intrigued him. If he could extract Qi from plants with that, then perhaps the former could refine it even further. But he couldn¡¯t explain any of this to Jian. Instead, he tapped the jade slip at his side. ¡°The Flourishing Root Scripture is not only about cultivating plants,¡± he said, his tone even. ¡°It allows me to harmonise with natural energy, stabilise wild Qi, and integrate it gradually.¡± He gestured to the Serpent¡¯s Veil Lily. ¡°If I use it correctly, I can regulate the energy flow as I absorb it.¡± Jian exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "This is the worst idea we¡¯ve ever had. You know that, right?" Tao didn¡¯t argue. He simply waited. Jian ran a hand through his damp hair, frustration plain on his face. "You really think you can stabilize wild Qi like that? What if it backfires? What if you miscalculate?" "Then we die," Tao said evenly. Jian let out a humourless laugh. "Fantastic. You¡¯re really selling this." He glanced at the Molten Ember Grass, its faint heat radiating against his fingers. He thought of every other failed breakthrough, every cultivator who had exploded into a mist of flesh and regret. But he also thought of the enemies ahead, their lack of strength. "... Damn it," Jian muttered, but there was something in his eyes, an ember of reckless determination. "Fine. But if this goes wrong, I''m haunting you in the afterlife." Tao took the Serpent¡¯s Veil Lily, feeling the cold mist curl around his skin. The two plants were complete opposites, yet in this moment, their fates were the same. Tao looked up at Jian. "We do this carefully. If we lose control for even a moment, these plants will kill us." Jian scoffed, but there was an edge of unease in his eyes. He picked up the Molten Ember Grass, rolling it between his fingers. "We don¡¯t have the luxury of playing it safe. If we waste their potency, we may as well have thrown them away." Tao nodded but said nothing. Jian lifted the stalk of Molten Ember Grass to his lips and bit down. It was as if he had swallowed a sun. The moment the plant¡¯s essence entered his system, it erupted. His veins turned into rivers of molten fire, searing through his meridians like a flood of liquid steel. His breath hitched, a sharp gasp tearing from his throat as raw energy surged through him, unchecked and wild. His dantian flared, expanding to contain the influx, but the fire did not slow. It did not settle. It wanted to burn him apart. His Molten Flame sprang to life above his palm, but it was not the controlled flicker he had cultivated. It was a storm, writhing and untamed, a beast that threatened to devour him from the inside out. He clenched his jaw, forcing his mind to focus. He had to refine it. He had to take control. But the flame fought him, twisting violently, rejecting his will. Tao did not hesitate. He pressed the Serpent¡¯s Veil Lily against his palm and activated the Fertile Spirit Nurturing Art. He forced the technique to reverse, dragging the flower¡¯s energy into himself instead of giving. Cold. A tide of frigid Qi surged through his meridians, the chill so intense it felt like his blood was freezing solid. His limbs went numb, his breath caught in his throat. The energy was dense, suffocating, a force so unrelenting it threatened to lock his meridians in place. His Unyielding Mountain Spirit reacted instinctively, straining against the invasive chill, but Tao did not let it reject the energy. Instead, he guided it, forced it into motion, weaving it into his own Qi, shaping it rather than resisting. His vision blurred, his body shuddering under the force of the opposing energies. Jian trembled violently; his teeth bared in a silent snarl. His dantian was expanding too quickly, the Molten Ember Grass pushing him beyond his limits, but the energy was not settling. It raged within him, wild and unstable. His meridians burned, stretched past what they could endure. The fourth layer shattered under the force, his body barrelling toward the fifth. But the energy did not stop. It did not slow. It was too much. A warning flared in Tao¡¯s mind, a whisper from deep within. Shenli¡¯s voice slithered through his consciousness, smooth and dark. "Ah, little cultivator, did you miscalculate?" Chapter 59: Forged in Fire, Rooted in Strength Shenli¡¯s voice slithered through his consciousness, smooth and dark. ¡°Ah, little cultivator, did you miscalculate?¡± Tao ignored him, his own struggle making it impossible to respond. He could feel his own breakthrough approaching, his meridians expanding, his dantian deepening. But Jian was not stabilizing. Then finally, he felt something loosen then give way¡­ His vision sharpened. The air around him felt different, as if he could sense the breath of the plants, the pulse of the earth itself. The fifth layer. But the Qi was still surging. If he absorbed more, he would be pushed past his limit. He clenched his fist around the stem of the Serpent¡¯s Veil Lily and let go. The remains of the flower fell towards the ground, withering as it descended. His breathing slowed. His Qi stilled. He had succeeded. Then he heard Jian¡¯s ragged breathing. Jian was still struggling. The heat rolling off him was unbearable, his Molten Flame still flickering wildly, threatening to consume him. Tao¡¯s jaw tightened. If Jian lost control now, his Qi would ignite, and his body would turn to ash. ¡°Drain it,¡± Shenli murmured. ¡°Before he becomes nothing but a cautionary tale.¡± Tao moved on instinct. He surged forward, pressing a hand to Jian¡¯s back, activating the Fertile Spirit Nurturing Art once more. But this time, he didn¡¯t use it on himself, he directed it outward, into the clearing. A ripple spread through the air. The excess Qi, no longer trapped within Jian, spilled into the surroundings. The grass wilted at first, unable to withstand the force, but then it surged back to life. The soil darkened, enriched. Wildflowers bloomed in the dead earth. Grass surged upward, flickering through the seasons as if time itself bent to the sudden rush of energy. Jian gasped, his whole body locking up. The last of the excess energy drained away, seeping into the earth, and finally, his flame steadied. It no longer writhed with chaotic fury. It burned hot, but stable, condensed into something pure and controlled. The grove was silent. The heat of the afternoon still lingered, but the air felt different now, charged with residual Qi, thick and lingering like the aftershock of a passing storm. Tao lay on his back, his chest rising and falling in uneven breaths, his body drained of all strength. His limbs felt like lead; his meridians stretched past their limit. The impurities expelled from his body clung to his skin in thick, rancid layers, a testament to the violent transformation he had just endured. His bones ached, his dantian hummed with a new depth of energy, but most of all, he was alive. Beside him, Jian let out a slow, shuddering breath, staring blankly at the sky. His entire body trembled as if his muscles had forgotten how to work. His clothes, damp with sweat, clung to him like a second skin. The Molten Flame flickered weakly above his palm before sputtering out. Even the fire had exhausted itself. Neither of them spoke for a long while. Then, with great effort, Jian let out a hoarse laugh. ¡°That,¡± he rasped, ¡°was the worst idea we have ever had.¡± Tao turned his head slightly, his lips curling despite himself. ¡°Agreed.¡± This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Jian groaned, rolling onto his side. His entire body ached; his meridians still raw from the violent breakthrough. He flexed his fingers, summoning his flame again. This time, it came easier. It burned steady and strong, the chaotic surges from before now tempered into something refined. Tao watched him, his own fingers tightening slightly. His Qi flowed differently now, moving like a steady stream rather than a raging river. His connection to the world around him had deepened. Jian exhaled, dropping his flame. ¡°We almost died.¡± Tao nodded, staring up at the sky. ¡°We did.¡± Jian let out a humourless chuckle, rubbing a hand down his face. ¡°Still. It worked.¡± Tao turned his gaze toward him, his voice quiet but firm. ¡°Barely.¡± Jian smirked. ¡°Still counts.¡± Silence settled between them again, but this time, it was different. Not heavy with exhaustion, but with thought. With realization. Jian lifted a hand and ran it through the dirt beside him, feeling the warmth still lingering from the expelled energy. ¡°You felt it, didn¡¯t you?¡± Tao turned his head slightly. ¡°Felt what?¡± Jian frowned, as if struggling to find the right words. ¡°The power. The sheer¡­ force of it. When I broke through, it felt like my body was being forged into something new. It was painful, terrifying, but at the same time¡­¡± He clenched his hand into a fist. ¡°I have never felt more alive.¡± Tao didn¡¯t respond right away. He understood. He had felt it too. That moment of raw, uncontrollable power. The sensation of stepping beyond what they had once been. It had been exhilarating. But it had also been a warning. Every step toward power was taken on the edge of a blade His gaze flickered toward Jian, whose face still carried traces of reckless excitement. ¡°You enjoyed it too much.¡± Jian scoffed. ¡°Of course I did. We did this. Not the sect. Not some elder¡¯s teachings. We took our own path, and we survived.¡± He smirked, tilting his head toward Tao. ¡°You can¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t feel the same.¡± Tao was silent. Because the truth was, he did. A rustling sound broke the moment. Jian stiffened, his eyes flicking toward the trees. Tao sat up slowly, his muscles protesting. The sun had started to dip lower, casting longer shadows across the grove, but the air still felt thick with the residue of their breakthrough. And something was moving in the darkness beyond. Tao¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°They can sense it.¡± Jian swore under his breath, pushing himself upright. His body screamed in protest, but the tension in the air left no room for rest. The Wilds were never silent for long. A low, guttural growl rumbled from the undergrowth. Then another. Tao and Jian exchanged a look. A heavy footstep crushed dried leaves somewhere to their left. Then, a sharp chittering noise echoed from the treetops. Multiple presences. Stalking. Waiting. Jian¡¯s grip tightened around his sword. ¡°How many?¡± Tao''s sharpened senses caught the subtle shifts in the undergrowth, the flicker of movement in the shadows. Three figures at first. No, five. Their presence slithered through the air, drawn by the lingering Qi like predators scenting wounded prey. A flash of red eyes. ¡°Too many,¡± Tao muttered. ¡°We need to leave.¡± Jian didn¡¯t argue. His limbs still felt heavy, but there was no time to hesitate. They had no idea what kinds of creatures lurked in this part of the Outer Wilds, but anything drawn to Qi of this magnitude would not be weak. Tao reached into his storage ring, fingers brushing against the jade slips they had taken. Their power had grown. But right now, it wasn¡¯t enough. Branches cracked as something lunged from the undergrowth. Jian moved first, his blade flashing, but his footing was unsteady, the aftereffects of his breakthrough still weighing him down. Tao yanked him back, their bodies narrowly avoiding a blur of movement that crashed into the spot where they had just been. A massive, clawed limb slammed into the earth, splintering wood and stone. Jian cursed; his breath ragged. ¡°I am not in the mood for this.¡± Tao grabbed his arm, pulling him back. ¡°Run.¡± Jian didn¡¯t need to be told twice. They turned, pushing their exhausted bodies into motion. The forest roared behind them, filled with the sounds of snapping branches and guttural growls. Their breakthrough had made them stronger. But it had also made them prey. Chapter 60: The Wolf Awaits Tao and Jian moved forward, their steps slow but deliberate, their bodies bearing the scars of battle. Their robes, torn and bloodied, clung to their skin, damp with sweat and the grime of their journey. The dense foliage around them whispered with the sounds of unseen creatures. Birds long accustomed to the presence of predators fell silent as they passed. Even the insects seemed subdued, as if sensing the latent energy that clung to them, the residual pressure of their breakthroughs. Tao¡¯s fingers tightened around the hilt of his sword, the weight of it grounding him. Jian walked beside him, his gaze sharp and wary. They were close now. The end of the Wilds was near. Beyond the thinning treeline lay the boundary of the Verdant Dawn Sect, the first sliver of civilization they had seen in weeks. The boundary between lawlessness and the watchful eyes of the sect. But they knew better than to relax. The ambush came without warning. Figures stepped out from behind the trees, their presence smooth, practiced, calculated. Five of them, clad in the robes of the Verdant Dawn Sect. Their postures oozed confidence, the kind that came from knowing they outnumbered their prey. At their centre stood Yun Fei. His smirk was the same as always, dripping with arrogance, but his eyes held something darker, anticipation. He studied them with feigned surprise, but Tao saw the flicker of satisfaction beneath it. ¡°You actually made it back,¡± Yun Fei said, tilting his head. ¡°I thought the Wilds would have finished you off.¡± His gaze flicked over their battered forms, lingering on the filth clinging to their robes, the dried blood streaking their arms. ¡°Then again, maybe it did.¡± Jian exhaled through his nose, rolling his shoulders. ¡°Move.¡± Yun Fei let out a short laugh. ¡°Move? That is the first thing you say?¡± He gestured lazily to his men. ¡°You have returned from the Wilds, which means you must have found something valuable. You know how this works. Hand it over, and I will let you walk away.¡± Tao remained silent, but his gaze flickered toward the disciples surrounding them. Their hands rested on the hilts of their weapons, but their stances were relaxed. Overconfident. They believed this would be an easy fight. Jian let out a breathless chuckle. ¡°I have had a very long week,¡± he said, stretching his fingers. ¡°So I am only going to say this once. Move.¡± Yun Fei¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°And if I don¡¯t?¡± Jian answered by drawing his sword. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. The clearing exploded into motion. The first disciple lunged, but Jian was already moving. His blade swept upward, catching the attacker¡¯s strike with a sharp clang before twisting into a fluid counter. The disciple barely had time to register the movement before Jian¡¯s blade carved through his guard, cutting deep into his shoulder. A strangled cry left his lips as he staggered back, blood staining his robes. Another charged from the side, but Jian pivoted smoothly, sidestepping the thrust. His sword flashed again, cutting across the disciple¡¯s ribs in a clean, precise motion. The man collapsed, clutching his side. Tao moved with the same ruthless efficiency. The moment his fingers brushed the earth, the ground trembled. Emerald vines burst from the soil, moving with unnatural speed. One disciple barely had time to react before the tendrils coiled around his legs, yanking him off his feet and slamming him into the dirt. Another swung his sword wildly, trying to sever the vines, but they moved too fast, twisting around his arm and wrenching his weapon from his grasp. Tao did not stop. He shifted his stance, pouring more Qi into the Emerald Vine Puppet Arts. The plants responded instantly, forming jagged spikes that lashed toward another attacker. The disciple managed to dodge the first strike, but the second found its mark, slamming into his chest and sending him sprawling. Jian met another attacker in a head on clash. Their swords met in a flurry of sparks, the force of the impact vibrating up his arm. His opponent was stronger than the others, his stance solid, his movements disciplined. But he was too slow. Jian feinted left, drawing the disciple¡¯s guard, then twisted his blade at the last second, redirecting his strike downward. The momentary opening was all he needed. He drove his knee into the man¡¯s gut, forcing the air from his lungs, then brought his sword¡¯s hilt down on the back of his head. The disciple crumpled, unconscious before he hit the ground. The clearing fell silent. Yun Fei stood frozen, his smirk long gone. His lackeys lay groaning around him, their weapons scattered, their bodies broken. This was supposed to be an easy victory. He had been so sure. Jian rolled his shoulder, flicking the blood from his blade. He turned to Yun Fei, his expression unreadable. ¡°Still in our way?¡± Yun Fei took a slow step back, his hands trembling at his sides. ¡°You¡­¡± His voice faltered. His gaze flickered to Tao, then back to Jian, as if seeing them for the first time. Tao met his gaze, his voice calm. ¡°Leave.¡± Yun Fei swallowed. His pride burned, his rage seethed, but he did not attack. He had seen enough. With a sharp turn, he stormed away, disappearing into the trees. But they were not alone. A presence lingered in the shadows, hidden among the foliage. Wei had watched everything. He had known this would happen. He had told Yun Fei long ago that if Tao and Jian survived the Wilds, they would no longer be the same weaklings they once were. But seeing it unfold with his own eyes was something else entirely. Tao¡¯s technique had been seamless, his control over the vines terrifying in its precision. Jian¡¯s swordsmanship had been sharp, unrelenting, every movement refined and lethal. They had returned as different people. Stronger. Dangerous. A slow, creeping realization curled around Wei¡¯s heart, cold and bitter. Tao was not someone he could afford to underestimate anymore. And that terrified him. Chapter 61: Two Names to Remember The crisp night air swept through the open windows of the Verdant Hall, carrying away the heavy scent of aged parchment. Inside the secluded chamber, the flickering glow of jade lanterns cast elongated shadows against the carved wooden walls. Elder Jianyu stood before a wide table strewn with maps and intelligence reports, his expression grim. At the far end of the chamber, Yu Tian gazed out through the open window, his hands clasped behind his back. His silver hair shimmered beneath the flickering light, but his eyes remained sharp, piercing the darkening horizon. ¡°We are stagnating,¡± Yu Tian said, his voice quiet, yet heavy with authority. ¡°Only my cultivation has kept this sect standing. But if we do not act, that will soon change.¡± Jianyu inclined his head. ¡°Because of the Iron Tower Sect?¡± ¡°Not only them,¡± Yu Tian replied. ¡°The Medicine Valley Sect moves with purpose. Their alchemists scoured the hidden realm, but I do not believe they found what they were looking for. And the ashen robed cultivators¡­ they have remained unseen since the realm collapsed, yet their presence lingers.¡± His voice dropped, his words like steel wrapped in silk. ¡°I suspect they took what Medicine Valley sought.¡± Jianyu¡¯s fists clenched at his sides. He had lost too much in that realm, three disciples who would never return. Yu Tian turned, watching him carefully. ¡°Tell me, Jianyu, apart from a few plants did you find anything of value before you escaped?¡± Jianyu met his gaze, unwavering. ¡°No.¡± The air in the chamber seemed to tighten. Yu Tian studied him for a long moment before exhaling, a trace of disappointment flickering through his features. But he did not press further. ¡°Regardless,¡± Yu Tian continued, ¡°the sect must strengthen its foundation. We cannot remain complacent. If we do, we will be swept aside, either by rival sects or by forces yet unseen.¡± Jianyu exhaled slowly. ¡°Then we need stronger disciples.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Yu Tian¡¯s gaze sharpened, his Qi rippling subtly. ¡°The core disciple ranks must be filled once more. And as fortune would have it¡­¡± He turned his head toward the distance, his expression unreadable. ¡°¡­Two candidates have already arrived at the border of the Wilds.¡± Jianyu¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. His heart pounded. Could it be¡­? ¡°Jian and Tao¡­?¡± If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Yu Tian¡¯s lips curved into the barest hint of a smile. ¡°See for yourself.¡± Jianyu did not wait. Without another word, he strode toward the exit, his movements swift. Whatever was happening at the border of the Wilds, he would witness it with his own eyes. Jianyu moved swiftly, the cool air rushing past him as he descended the mountain path toward the sect¡¯s outer borders. His robes barely stirred as his Qi propelled him forward, his senses sharpening with each step. He landed silently atop the highest branch of a towering pine, his sharp gaze piercing through the dense foliage. The forest below was bathed in pale moonlight, broken only by the flickering glow of Qi techniques colliding in furious combat. Five disciples of the Verdant Dawn Sect lay scattered across the clearing, groaning, defeated. From their robes it was clear they were inner sect disciples, but their pride had been stripped from them, replaced with bruises and the glint of sweat drenched fear. At the centre of it all stood two figures, bloodied but standing firm. Tao and Jian. Jianyu¡¯s eyes narrowed as he took them in. Jian¡¯s blade was lowered, its edge glinting with fresh blood beneath the moon¡¯s gaze. His breathing was steady, but his stance betrayed the exhaustion lingering in his muscles. His aura, however, had deepened, steadied, sharpened into something Jianyu had not seen from him before. Tao, on the other hand, was something else entirely. The plants around him still trembled with residual Qi, the remnants of his Emerald Vine Puppet Arts evident in the tendrils of green receding into the forest floor. His control over the technique had matured, his precision no longer hesitant or crude. He had wielded the Wilds themselves as his weapon. Jianyu¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line. These two had returned from the Wilds¡­ different. ¡°Unbelievable.¡± A voice broke through the night, carrying just enough venom to be noticed. Jianyu did not need to look to know who it was. Wei stood on a lower branch, half hidden in shadow, his arms crossed, his expression unreadable as he watched the aftermath of the battle unfold. He had likely followed Yun Fei¡¯s men, expecting to witness Tao and Jian¡¯s downfall. Instead, he had seen them dismantle an ambush meant to humiliate them. ¡°They tore through Yun Fei¡¯s people like they were nothing,¡± Wei muttered, though whether it was admiration or resentment that laced his words, Jianyu could not tell. Jianyu remained silent, watching as Yun Fei staggered backward, his once smug expression twisted with disbelief. The confidence he had worn so easily had been shattered in mere moments. Tao met his gaze, calm, unwavering. ¡°Leave.¡± Yun Fei¡¯s jaw clenched. He wanted to fight back. Jianyu could see it in the way his fingers twitched, aching to reach for his weapon. But there was no fight left in him. With a final glare, Yun Fei turned heading back to the sect, his lackeys scrambling after him. The clearing fell into silence once more. Jian turned to Tao with an exhausted grin. ¡°Well, that was fun.¡± Tao let out a quiet breath, shaking his head. ¡°We should keep moving.¡± Jianyu exhaled slowly. They had returned, stronger. More dangerous. The Verdant Dawn Sect had been in desperate need of new power. And tonight, they had found it. Chapter 62: A World Made Smaller The night was deep by the time Tao and Jian stepped through the sect¡¯s gates. The air was cooler here than in the Wilds, but the faint scent of damp stone and the distant flickering of Qi lanterns reminded them that they had returned to a world of rules and hierarchy. No crowds awaited them. No cheers or whispers followed their steps. Only the quiet hum of a few distant disciples finishing their nightly cultivation, their presence barely noticeable in the vast sect grounds. For Tao and Jian, this was preferable. They were exhausted, their robes still stiff with dried blood and dirt, their bodies aching from days of relentless survival. Tao did not head to his room immediately. He made his way to the communal well first, drawing water with slow, deliberate motions. The bucket creaked as it rose, the cool liquid sloshing inside. He let out a breath and splashed some onto his face, shivering as the cold chased away the haze of fatigue. Clean water. Something so simple, yet after the Wilds, it felt like a luxury. He took his time washing the grime from his arms, his movements slow and methodical. The bruises beneath his sleeves ached as he worked, a stark reminder that strength always came with a cost. Jian had already gone ahead to his quarters, muttering about collapsing into bed before his legs gave out. Tao had agreed at the time, but now that he was here, beneath the quiet night sky, he found himself lingering. The moon hung high above the Verdant Dawn Sect, its silver light soft against the tiled rooftops and stone paths. In the distance, he could hear the faint murmurs of disciples still awake, the occasional clang of a training weapon, the distant rustle of fabric as robes brushed against the night breeze. It was a world he had once taken for granted. Now, after the Wilds, it felt smaller somehow, more fragile. He slowly made his way to the identical wooden huts that held his small, cramped room. Tao pushed open the wooden door to his quarters, stepping inside with careful, deliberate movements. The room was pitch dark, the air stale from weeks of neglect. No trace of another¡¯s presence, only dust and the faint scent of old parchment. He exhaled slowly, shutting the door behind him. The silence pressed in, thick and absolute. His cot sat untouched, the blanket still creased from the last time he had slept there, more than a month ago. His shelf remained cluttered with manuals and dried herbs, though a fine layer of dust had settled over everything, proof of how long he had been gone. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. He removed his satchel and crouched down pushing it underneath his cot, his fingers brushing against the rough fabric. Stripping off his outer robe, he let it drop to the floor with a dull rustle. The blood and dirt clinging to the fabric felt out of place here, like remnants of another world. He rubbed at the stiffness in his arms, feeling the bruises beneath his sleeves protest at the motion. For a long moment, he just stood there, staring at the faint outlines of the room as his eyes adjusted to the dark. He had thought coming back would bring relief, but instead, the space felt... foreign. Smaller than he remembered. With a quiet sigh, he sat on the edge of his cot, hands clasped loosely between his knees. He should sleep. He needed to. But exhaustion didn¡¯t always bring rest. Instead, he listened to the distant wind rattling against the wooden walls, to the faint, rhythmic breaths of disciples in the neighbouring huts, to the silence that settled deep into his bones. Tao lay back against the cot, feeling the stiffness of the mattress beneath him. He had spent so many nights in this room before, but after sleeping beneath open skies and against the hard earth, the walls around him felt suffocating. He shifted, the wooden frame creaking under his weight, but no position felt comfortable. His muscles ached, his skin felt too tight over bruised flesh, and no matter how he lay, the tension would not leave his body. His gaze drifted upward, though there was nothing to see but the darkness pressing in from all sides. He had grown used to seeing the stars at night, distant points of cold light stretching endlessly above him. Now, enclosed by wooden walls and a roof, it felt as if the sky had been taken from him. His hand reached absently for his sword should have been, but he had already stored it away. Even so, his fingers twitched, muscle memory telling him to keep his weapon close. The Wilds had left him with habits that did not belong in the relative safety of the sect. A hollow chuckle escaped him. Safe. He was supposed to be safe here. Yet somehow, lying in his own bed, surrounded by familiar walls, he had never felt more out of place. His eyes shut, but his mind remained restless. Images from the Wilds flickered behind his eyelids. The flash of a blade. The rustle of undergrowth before an ambush. The sharp scent of blood in the cold night air. He forced himself to take a slow breath, steadying his thoughts, but the tension in his limbs refused to fade. It would take time. That much he knew. He had survived the Wilds, but survival did not end when the danger passed. It lingered. It followed. Perhaps, he thought as he shifted onto his side, staring at the faint outline of his shelf in the dark, he had not truly returned at all. A quiet whisper of memory stirred in his mind, a lesson from someone long ago. "The world is vast, but the path of cultivation is narrow. Few can tread it to its end, for it is filled with sorrow and tribulation." Tao let out a slow breath. The Wilds had not broken him, but they had changed him. He did not know yet if that was for better or worse. Sleep would not come easily tonight. Perhaps not for many nights to come. Chapter 63: Becoming Core Members Morning came slowly, the pale light creeping through the gaps in the wooden walls. He had barely slept. When his body finally succumbed to exhaustion, his dreams were restless, visions of clawed hands reaching through tangled undergrowth, of blood soaking into the earth. A sharp knock at his door snapped him from his haze. ¡°Tao!¡± Jian¡¯s voice was firm but carried a hint of exasperation. ¡°Wake up. The lotus. We need to turn it in.¡± Tao sat up with a quiet groan, rubbing his temples. The knocking turned into a series of heavy kicks. ¡°Tao, come on! Elder Jianyu¡¯s going to kill us if we take too long.¡± Before Tao could fully get to his feet, a new voice cut through the morning air. ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary.¡± Jian¡¯s kicking stopped immediately. Tao swung the door open to find Elder Jianyu standing just beyond the threshold, arms folded, his sharp gaze sweeping over them both. Jian stiffened, clearly caught off guard. ¡°You two decided to sleep after returning instead of cultivating?¡± The elder¡¯s tone carried clear disapproval. ¡°You should be spending every scrap of spare time refining your energy. Wasting potential is the same as discarding it.¡± Jian scratched the back of his head. ¡°Uh, we were¡­¡± ¡°Enough.¡± Jianyu waved a hand. ¡°Pack your things. You won¡¯t be staying here much longer.¡± Tao and Jian exchanged a look but did not question him outright. Instead, they quickly gathered their belongings while the elder waited, his expression unreadable. Jian threw his things together with haste, while Tao made sure to secure the storage ring in his sleeve before slinging his satchel over his shoulder, it was now full of all his worldly possessions. Without another word, Jianyu turned on his heel and led them through the sect grounds. They passed several disciples engaging in morning sparring drills, the sharp clang of metal ringing in the air. Tao expected Jianyu to stop and inspect them, but the elder strode past without so much as a glance, making his way toward the far end of the Combat Hall. The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. As they stepped inside, the hall''s energy surrounded them, disciples sparring in rings, wooden dummies lined along the sides, and the scent of sweat and oiled weapons lingering in the air. Grand carvings of warriors adorned the stone walls, frozen in eternal battle. Jianyu did not pause. Instead, he led them toward the rear of the hall, where a set of heavy doors stood. He pushed them open, revealing a private chamber beyond. Inside, the space was simple but refined. Scrolls detailing martial techniques lined the walls, and a single, well worn meditation mat lay at the centre of the room. A modest desk sat near the back, where Jianyu took his seat before motioning for them to sit as well. ¡°Did you find the lotus?¡± he asked without preamble. Tao reached into his satchel, carefully retrieving the flower. The moment he placed it on the elder¡¯s desk, Jianyu pulled out a jade box and gently set the lotus inside, sealing it with a flick of his fingers. ¡°Well done.¡± His gaze flickered between them, noting their auras. ¡°I see you have both reached the fifth layer. That, too, is commendable.¡± Jian grinned. ¡°Not bad, huh?¡± Jianyu ignored the remark. ¡°Tell me of your experiences in the Wilds.¡± Tao hesitated before exchanging a glance with Jian. They recounted their encounters, the treacherous terrain and the beasts that had tested their resolve and combat skills. But they carefully avoided any mention of the secret realm. Jianyu listened intently before leaning forward, his eyes narrowing slightly. ¡°Did you come across any ashen robed cultivators?¡± Both Tao and Jian froze for the briefest moment. They had not expected Jianyu to know about the ashen robed cultivators. They quickly exchanged glances before shaking their heads in unison. ¡°No, Elder,¡± Tao said, his voice even. ¡°We did not encounter anyone like that.¡± ¡°Not at all,¡± Jian added swiftly. Perhaps too swiftly. Jianyu¡¯s gaze lingered on them, sharp with scrutiny. His eyes flickered between the two before narrowing in suspicion. But after a long pause, he chose not to press the matter. Instead, he leaned back slightly and asked, ¡°Did you encounter anything unusual?¡± ¡°Nothing beyond what we¡¯ve already described,¡± Jian answered smoothly. Tao nodded. ¡°The Wilds were dangerous, but nothing beyond what we expected.¡± Jianyu exhaled through his nose, considering them carefully before finally nodding. He reached into his desk, pulling out two small tokens marked with intricate engravings. He slid one to each of them. ¡°Congratulations,¡± he said. ¡°You are now core members of the sect.¡± Tao stared at the token in his palm, the intricate carvings catching the light. Jian let out a quiet breath of disbelief before breaking into a grin. Jianyu¡¯s expression softened ever so slightly. ¡°Train hard. You will need it.¡± Chapter 64: The Weight of the Token After a brief pause, Jianyu leaned forward, his expression serious. ¡°As core members of the sect, you will gain certain privileges, but with them come greater responsibilities. I will explain those in detail, but first¡­¡± He held their gazes for a moment before continuing. ¡°Our founder, who still serves as our patriarch, established this sect 300 years ago. At the time, he had reached the peak of the Qi Condensation realm, seeking a way to pass on his legacy. By seizing an opportunity, he broke through to Foundation Establishment, granting himself another five centuries of longevity. Compared to many sects, ours is still in its formative years.¡± Jian and Tao listened in silence. Neither reacted outwardly, but a flicker of something unreadable passed through their eyes. Jianyu¡¯s tone remained steady. ¡°Most of our disciples in the outer and inner sects have inferior or low grade spirit roots, which slows their cultivation. You two are among them.¡± Jian¡¯s fingers curled slightly, but he said nothing. Tao kept his gaze lowered; expression composed. ¡°A small number of disciples possess mid grade spirit roots and are usually chosen as core members. However, reaching the fifth level of Qi Condensation grants anyone the opportunity to join the core ranks.¡± Jian and Tao remained quiet, absorbing the information. Jianyu studied them for a moment before adding, ¡°Having inferior or low grade spirit roots does not mean you cannot reach Foundation Establishment. It simply means your path will be harder. But given the progress you demonstrated in the Wilds, I believe you both have the potential to break through.¡± Jian inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment. Tao gave a slow nod. With a deliberate motion, Jianyu withdrew two jade slips and placed them before them. ¡°These contain the latter part of the Verdant Dawn Scripture, guiding you to the ninth stage of Qi Condensation. They also include the next section of the Verdant Sword Technique.¡± Jian picked up one of the slips, turning it over in his palm. Tao hesitated for a fraction of a second before taking the other. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. ¡°Core disciples are considered true members of the sect,¡± Jianyu continued. ¡°You will receive a monthly stipend of ten low grade spirit stones. It will supplement your cultivation, but you will still need to take on missions to acquire additional resources. Core members are permitted to undertake higher level assignments.¡± Jian gave a slight nod. Tao remained silent. ¡°In addition, you will receive two Qi gathering pills per month to aid your breakthroughs. Any extras must be purchased with contribution points.¡± Jian finally spoke, his voice even. ¡°How many points do core disciples receive per month?¡± ¡°Thirty,¡± Jianyu replied. ¡°They can be used to access sect resources, manuals, training formations, or additional pills.¡± Jian merely nodded again. Tao pressed his lips together in thought. ¡°You will also each be assigned a new residence with a private cultivation chamber, equipped with a Qi gathering formation to assist in your training,¡± Jianyu went on. ¡°Additionally, core disciples receive higher quality robes embedded with minor defensive formations. They won¡¯t protect you from stronger cultivators, but in the right situation, they may save your life.¡± Tao ran his fingers along the edge of the jade slip before finally speaking. ¡°Understood.¡± Jianyu¡¯s gaze lingered on them for a moment before he nodded. ¡°Good. The sect provides for those willing to dedicate themselves. You have been given an opportunity; use it well.¡± Jian and Tao lowered their heads in respectful acknowledgment. Whatever they truly thought, they kept to themselves. After a moment of silence, a measured knock echoed at the chamber door. Jianyu¡¯s eyes flickered with a hint of approval as he spoke, ¡°That must be Rufeng.¡± He called for Rufeng to enter. The door swung open to reveal Yin Rufeng, who strode in calmly. His presence was unmistakable, a strong, assured aura and the dignified bearing of one who had reached the seventh layer of Qi Condensation. Stepping forward, he offered a polite nod, his voice even as he greeted, ¡°Good day, younger brothers.¡± Jianyu smiled slightly and introduced him, ¡°Tao, Jian, this is Yin Rufeng, one of our strongest core disciples. From now on, you shall address him as elder brother.¡± Tao and Jian exchanged quick, respectful bows, replying, ¡°Elder Brother Rufeng.¡± At their words, a pleased glint flashed through Yin Rufeng¡¯s eyes. He straightened subtly, his shoulders squaring with quiet satisfaction. The title rolled pleasantly in his ears, feeding a sense of seniority he enjoyed. A slight smirk touched his lips before he composed himself, his expression smoothing into one of dignified acceptance. ¡°Good,¡± he said, his voice carrying an air of approval. ¡°I will see to it that you settle in properly.¡± Jianyu then turned to Rufeng with a deliberate tone. ¡°Rufeng, please escort our new core members to their new places of residence.¡± Rufeng inclined his head in acknowledgment, his expression resolute, though the lingering satisfaction of his newfound authority still flickered in his gaze. Before they departed, Jianyu added with quiet authority, ¡°And as a testament to your achievements in completing the mission and reaching the fifth layer, I have augmented each of your tokens with an extra 1000 sect points. Use them well in your continued cultivation.¡± Without another word, Yin Rufeng departed with Tao and Jian, while Jianyu¡¯s watchful eyes held the weight of their future. Chapter 65: A Place of Their Own The heavy doors of the Combat Hall swung shut behind them, sealing off the sounds of sparring disciples and the rhythmic thuds against the wooden dummies. Rufeng¡¯s back was as straight as a spear, his movements precise as though every step was measured for maximum impact. Though Rufeng¡¯s gaze remained fixed ahead, Jian and Tao could tell he expected them to fall into step behind him Rufeng led them through the sect¡¯s sprawling grounds, guiding them toward a secluded compound behind the Verdant Hall, an area neither Tao nor Jian had ever visited before. The further they walked, the more the atmosphere shifted. The Qi here felt denser, a clear indication of the area¡¯s significance to core disciples. They passed several large wooden structures, far grander than the modest huts inner sect members had to share. As they neared the end of the compound, Rufeng stopped before two adjacent buildings, both larger and more refined than any Jian or Tao had seen in the sect. ¡°These will be your residences,¡± Rufeng said evenly, gesturing to the two buildings. ¡°Junior Brother Jian, yours will be the one on the left. Junior Brother Tao, yours is the one on the right.¡± The two disciples exchanged a glance, surprise flashing briefly across their faces before they offered respectful nods to Rufeng. ¡°The layout is similar for both,¡± Rufeng continued, his voice laced with amusement at their surprise. ¡°Living quarters in the front, cultivation chambers in the back. The formation for the cultivation chamber is already active. You¡¯ll find everything in order.¡± Jian and Tao nodded again, silently grateful for the unexpected luxury. ¡°There are basic amenities provided,¡± Rufeng went on. ¡°Should you require anything further, you may consult the sect¡¯s resource catalogue and use your contribution points. You¡¯ll find the catalogue inside your residences.¡± He gave them a broad smile before saying. ¡°I trust you¡¯ll find your way. If you need me, my residence is at the far end of the compound.¡± He pointed toward a distant building. ¡°Otherwise, familiarise yourselves with your new surroundings.¡± Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. With that, Rufeng turned and left, his footsteps fading into the distance as he headed toward his own residence. Jian and Tao exchanged a brief glance, a shared sense of wonder passing between them. They walked toward their respective residences in silence, both eager to settle into their new spaces. Jian approached the eastern building first, using his token to unlock the door. The interior was simple yet clean, the furnishings minimal. A simple bed, a wooden table, and a few shelves lined the walls. It was a far cry from the cramped quarters of the inner sect. He moved through the small living space and toward the back, where the cultivation chamber awaited. As he stepped inside, Jian immediately felt the difference. The spiritual energy was dense, the lines and symbols etched into the stone floor glowed faintly. His senses tingled as the Qi in the room seemed to wrap around him, filling the space with a potent, invigorating presence. It was unlike any cultivation environment he had experienced before. Low grade spiritual root or not, here progress would come more swiftly. Tao¡¯s residence mirrored Jian¡¯s in layout and design, though his reaction was more subdued. He stood still for a moment in the centre of the living room, letting the quiet satisfaction of the moment settle within him. The difference in quality between this and his old room in the inner sect was stark. He carefully placed the jade slip and token that Jianyu had given him on the table next to the catalogue, his fingers brushing the smooth surface. They were both symbols of his new standing, one that he had worked hard to achieve. Yet, more than the luxury of having the whole building to himself, he valued the privacy, this was perfect. He would now have the freedom to investigate the jade mountain statue once he found out how to set up some privacy arrays. His new status would help him here, he could now access arrays and formations of a higher grade. He made his way to the back of the building, where the cultivation chamber beckoned. The air there, thick with Qi, seemed to embrace him, almost as if the room itself was aware of his presence. The energy that filled the chamber was a comforting warmth, a silent promise of faster growth and more powerful cultivation. Tao closed his eyes for a moment, drawing in a deep breath, feeling the spiritual energy seep into his very core. It was almost too easy to get carried away and forget about everything. To stay there indefinitely and cultivate. After a long moment, he opened his eyes and moved away from the chamber back into the living quarters. It was time to talk to Jian about their future plans and figure out how to divide the spoils.