Timeless Space, Unknown Domain
Souls floated in an orderly manner, lacking much consciousness, toward a mysterious spring. They shone with a faint white glow, but one soul stood out, its indigo color and shadowy aura distinct from the others.
Suddenly, every soul halted, except for the indigo-colored one. It drifted closer to the spring and, upon entering, a surprised voice resonated through the void, "Such deep sorrow, even in my eternal life I haven't seen such sadness."
A figure appeared, formed entirely of radiant light, its presence both comforting and imposing. It hesitated, gazing upon the indigo soul before speaking again, "I will take pity on you…" Waving its hand, it sent out a small light bulb into the spring and entered the indigo-colored soul.
Spring, Unknown Domain
As the light bulb entered the indigo-colored soul, it shook and trembled until finally, Noah's consciousness awakened. He looked around curiously as he tried to remember what had happened.
Feelings of shock, despair, and a tiny bit of hope filled his being. 'I should be dead by now. I took too many antidepressants. So why am I awake?!' Many thoughts flashed in his mind until a blue hologram appeared. It floated and followed his field of vision.
{Pity of Transcendent Being}
{Due to your overwhelming sorrow, your soul was so affected that it attracted the attention of the Transcendent Being. It took pity on you and gave you a chance to choose your life path.}
{Customization}
[Looks: Customizable]
[Race: Human, Demi-human, Dog, Cat…]
[Inheritance: Random]
[Root: One Element, Two Elements…]
[Physique: Expand]
[Background: Expand]
[Confirm]
{You have unlimited time to create your destiny. You can't choose to become immortal from the get-go.}
As he read the words, a deep impression formed in his mind, accompanied by a tad bit of gratitude towards this Transcendent Being. Then he slowly started to customize his appearance. 'If I can, why not go all out? Maybe this was what I needed, a fresh start. I wonder how Ethan, Lila, and Isabela are coping with my death.'
He looked out at the blank dark space, guilt surfacing in his heart. 'Maybe I shouldn't have done it, but I could no longer stay there. It was suffocating, so suffocating that I hadn't breathed in a long time.'
Shaking his head, he let go of the what-ifs and started to customize his appearance. The selection process was reminiscent of a video game interface, although he didn't play them much. 'It appears I'll be going to a cultivation world or a Chinese-themed one, so…'
Selecting long black hair in a half-up half-down style, black eyes, and the age of 18, he chose a steady build, but not too muscular. 'I don't want to be weak, ever again.'
For the first time in forever, Noah felt excited. He was ecstatic about the new beginning, the chance to start over and forget his terrible life on Earth. But as that thought flashed, so did his happy moments there, chatting with Clare, hanging out with Isabela, studying with Ethan, or joking with Lila. He missed them all deeply, but he knew there was no going back on what he had done.
He took a deep breath, letting the guilt and regret fade into the background. 'I have to look at the future,' he thought, something he hadn't done in a long time. For the first time, he felt a spark of hope, a small but significant step towards healing and finding his place in this new world.
Looking at what's next, [Physique], he clicked [Expand], and more than a hundred appeared, all of their names sounded impressive. He didn't know what the physiques did but by names, he could guess. Jade Body, Earth Titan Physique… but one that stood out to him was Harmonic Resonance Body. It sounded powerful while keeping the elegance. And that was Noah, he liked to be humble, but his parents turned it into extreme.
He selected the Harmonic Resonance Body, feeling a sense of calm and balance settle over him. His new physique symbolized his desire for harmony in both mind and body, a fresh start where strength and grace could coexist.
Next, he moved on to the [Background] section. Clicking [Expand], he was presented with numerous options that detailed different origins and stories. Each background offered unique advantages and challenges.
He scanned through the options:
[Noble Scion: Born into a powerful family with access to vast resources but high expectations and political intrigue.]
[Orphaned Prodigy: Raised in an orphanage, possessing natural talent but lacking formal training and support.]
[Wandering Sage: A lone traveler with deep knowledge and understanding of the world but haunted by past regrets].
[Village Protector: Hailing from a small village, strong ties to his community but limited exposure to the wider world.]
[Demonic Rebirth: Once a feared demon, now reborn with a chance to atone for past sins and build a new legacy.]
[Loving Family: Raised in a warm and supportive family, surrounded by love and encouragement, but with hidden struggles to overcome.]
Looking at his options, a thoughtful look flashed in his eyes. He immediately discarded the Demonic Rebirth, as a kindred spirit he couldn't be on the Demonic Path. Narrowing his choices further, he offed Noble Scion and Wandering Sage, because he would like to have a family, or community that supports him.
After everything he's been through, he thought he deserved a loving and caring family. That narrowed down his choices to two options: [Village Protector] and [Loving Family], and he fell into deep thought. Both of them have compelling and convincing aspects, but Loving Family is more attractive, at least to him.
The Loving Family background stood out to him. It offered the chance to experience the warmth and support he had always longed for, something that was missing in his previous life. He knew that this background also came with its own set of challenges, including the inevitable pain of loss, but he was ready to face them.
He selected [Loving Family], feeling a sense of peace and anticipation. This background promised the familial love and nurturing environment he craved, while also presenting opportunities for growth through experiencing sacrifice and resilience.
With his background chosen, he was one step closer to beginning his new journey. The final confirmation screen appeared, and he felt a mix of apprehension and excitement. He took a deep breath, ready to embrace his new destiny.
[Looks: Customized]
[Race: Human]
[Inheritance: Random]
[Root: One Element, Two Elements…]
[Physique: Harmonic Resonance Body]
[Background: Loving Family]
[Confirm]
Before he confirmed, he selected the Six-Element Root. Because from what little he knew, six elements in Chinese Myths represented harmony. It felt like the perfect complement to his chosen physique and the path he wanted to walk, 'It should be the most powerful roots, or they will be the weakest. Well no matter, I just want to enjoy life and be loved and appreciated.'
Looking at the [Confirm] button, he took an imaginary deep breath and finally pressed it. When he did so, another screen, green in color, appeared.
{Pity of Transcendent Being}
{As you have chosen the life you desire, I hope you live it well. - Transcendent Being}
With that, everything went black, like he had fainted.
Xiang Dynasty, Southern Continent
In a small courtyard, a man sat in a lotus position, his black hair danced with the wind. He could be considered handsome, as he had a scholarly aura around him making him appear mysterious and trustful.
Weeping willow stood behind him, and as its branches danced, a frown appeared on the man's face. Invisible lightning hit the area between his eyebrows and serene scene shattered as the man fell. Lying there he twitched and trembled until finally stopping after five minutes.
Opening his eyes he felt the heaviness of his eyelids, his heart beating like a drum, and his black eyes looked around in curiosity. He first spotted the weeping willow and bright weather above. A tingling feeling of happiness appeared in his heart, as he started to believe this wasn't just an illusion.
He looked around and saw he was lying outside, in some kind of backyard, 'I guess this isn't an illusion, it's too much of a real thing'
The calm sky and breeze that blew gave him a sense of peace, a thing he hadn't felt in forever. The rustling leaves of the weeping willow and the distant chirping of birds filled the air with a tranquil melody. The soft scent of fresh grass and flowers mingled with the faint aroma of incense, enhancing the serenity of the moment.
Feeling the peace and serenity of the place, he enjoyed the moment. 'I can't believe this is real,' He thought, a sense of disbelief mingling with his happiness, 'I should be dead. I took too many antidepressants... yet here I am, in a place that feels like a sanctuary.'
He took a deep breath, letting the tranquility wash over him. 'Maybe this is my second chance. A chance to live without the suffocating weight of my past.' Having absorbed his surroundings, he tried to get up, but as he was about to many memories flooded his mind, a lot of things he had to sort out.
The main thing he got from the memories was where and who he was. His current name is Zhi Hua - 志华, he's the son of Zhi Jian and Lian Hua, and he was currently in the Xiang Dynasty.
His father, Zhi Jian, was a cultivation genius of the White Cloud Sword Sect (白云剑宗), he quickly got promoted to an Elder position while still in his 100s. After he broke through the 4th level of Foundation Establishment and entered the 5th level, the Sect Leader at that time set him as his successor.
Now, however, after a hundred years, Zhi Jian had already formed his golden core and climbed to the 3rd level of the Golden Core stage. He was the current Sect Leader, as the previous one had gone into seclusion.
His mother, Lian Hua, was a member of the Lian Clan, renowned for their expertise in alchemy and other cultivation arts. She was the daughter of the patriarch of the Lian Clan and had married Zhi Jian fifty years ago, forming a powerful alliance between the White Cloud Sword Sect and the Lian Clan. Her talent extended beyond alchemy, her music was graceful and divine, unparalleled in its beauty.
Just then, he heard the familiar, strong voice of a man, "Hua'er, are you all right?" Zhi Jian approached, his eyes filled with concern. "You seemed troubled in your meditation."
Zhi Hua's heart skipped a beat at the sound of his father's voice. It was comforting yet strange, grounding him in this new reality. He looked up and saw Zhi Jian's familiar face, filled with concern. Despite the familiarity, there was a distance, a sense of not truly knowing each other.
"I... I'm fine, Father," Zhi Hua replied, still grappling with the flood of memories and the weight of this new identity. The rustling leaves of the weeping willow and the soft chirping of birds added a serene backdrop to the moment. He took a deep breath, feeling a mix of peace and disorientation.
Zhi Jian nodded, his eyes softening. "Good. Remember, balance in your cultivation is crucial. If you ever feel troubled, come to me or your mother. We are here to guide you."
Zhi Hua felt a surge of gratitude mingled with uncertainty. This was his chance to start anew, but the faces around him were still unfamiliar. He resolved to embrace this second chance, to learn and grow, and to forge new bonds with the people in this life.
Zhi Hua, although uncertain, asked the question that has been bothering him his whole existence, "Father, what is the meaning of life?" He felt strange calling the man in front of him his father, but also slowly started to feel more connected.
Zhi Jian looked stunned for a moment, repeating the question under his breath, "Meaning of life?" His eyes glittered, "It's meaningless."
A cold wind blew past Zhi Hua as he stood there, trying to process his father's words. 'Meaningless? If so, then what is the point?' He looked up into the sky, his hands trembling a bit. 'What is the point of living?'
As Zhi Jian opened his mouth to continue, a sweet and comforting voice filled the air, "Hua'er, don't listen to that old man. He always starts grim."
A woman entered the courtyard, her presence immediately soothing the atmosphere. She looked to be 25 years old, dressed in a white gold dress. Her long black hair was held by a delicate hairpin, and her eyes sparkled with warmth and wisdom.
Zhi Hua looked at the woman and waking from initial shock, mumbled, "Mother…"
As she walked, she continued with a gentle smile, "Your father's famous words, 'Life is meaningless', have a continuation, 'And that is okay, because not all life needs meaning, but all of them are important'. Isn't that right, honey?"
Zhi Jian's stern expression softened as he nodded, "Yes, that's right. Life doesn't need a grand meaning to be significant. It's the small moments and the connections we make that truly matter."
Lian Hua approached Zhi Hua and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Hua'er, life is a journey filled with many experiences. Some will be joyful, others challenging, but every moment is precious and shapes who we are."
Zhi Hua felt a warmth spreading through him as he listened to his parents. The weight of his existential questions began to lift, replaced by a sense of peace and understanding.
Zhi Jian added, "Remember, Hua'er, it's not the grand meaning that gives life importance, but the everyday moments of love, growth, and connection. Embrace these moments, and you'll find that life is anything but meaningless."
Lian Hua nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with warmth. "And no matter what, we're here for you, to support and guide you through your journey."
Zhi Hua looked at his parents, feeling a newfound connection and purpose. "Thank you, Mother, Father. I understand now. Life is about the small, meaningful moments we share."
His parents smiled at him, pride and love evident in their eyes. As the sun set over the courtyard, casting a golden glow, Zhi Hua felt a sense of belonging and hope for the future.
Lian Hua looked at her husband, "Jian, we have to discuss something important" Gesturing with her eyes to leave, Zhi Jian getting the hint coughed and nodded, "Yes, Hua'er if you're troubled come to either one of us. Let's go "
Looking at their departing figures Zhi Hua sat down collecting and sorting out his thoughts, 'I've been reborn, that being gave me another chance. My parents care for me, or do they care only for Zhi Hua and not Noah? Am I Noah or Zhi Hua, or both?'
Waking me up from my thoughts was the appearance of the familiar blue hologram, showing the last message.
{As you've chosen and accepted the fact you were reborn into your new reality, this is your final hint sheet - Transcended Being}
[Race: Human]
[Inheritance: Unparalleled talent in Music Arts]
[Root: Six Elements Root - Heavenly Grade Purety]
[Physique: Harmonic Resonance Body]
[Background: Loving Family]
Examining his attributes, Zhi Hua was surprised by his unparalleled talent in musical arts and pondered its significance. 'It can't be just for playing instruments. There must be a deeper meaning,' he thought.
A serene determination settled over him. 'Noah or Zhi Hua, I can be both,' he acknowledged, understanding that his past experiences would shape his future actions. He could honor Noah's journey while embracing Zhi Hua's new path, creating a harmonious blend of both identities.
Closing the hologram, Zhi Hua stood up, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. The courtyard around him seemed more vibrant, the air filled with possibilities. He looked towards the weeping willow, its branches swaying gently in the breeze, and felt a deep connection to the world around him.
'This is my second chance. I will cherish it, learn from it, and grow,' he resolved. With that, Zhi Hua took his first step forward, ready to embrace the destiny that lay ahead.
White Cloud Sword Sect, Main Mountain, Zhi Hua's Courtyard
Zhi Hua sat on his bed, contemplating the qi ball hovering above his palm. "Qi Refinement, 3rd level. That shouldn't be so bad, right?" He murmured to himself, the indigo glow of the qi reflecting in his eyes. "But why is it indigo? It should be light blue, not indigo."
Searching through his memories, he tried to recall his father's teachings, "Colorless for Qi Gathering, light blue for Qi Refinement, and finally blue for Foundation Establishment. Other than these color changes, the color of the Qi only changes when you transcend, but that is only a legend."
He didn't know how to feel about it, as a series of questions arose, 'Is it an omen, or a blessing? Why can't I be normal? I just want a family that loves me, not to be extraordinary or cursed.'
The tranquility of his house contrasted sharply with the storm of questions raging in his mind. As the wind gently rustled the leaves outside, Zhi Hua resolved to uncover the mystery of his indigo qi and what it meant for his path forward, 'Why am I worried, I could just ask my parents.'
Now that he knew they cared, it brought happiness to his dull life, unlike his previous ones. He again remembered his life on Earth, his struggle, his despair. Trembling a bit, he closed his eyes, trying to forget it, but how can trauma like that be forgotten?
"I won't be repeating that mistake, I let life win. Now I shall win." Sudden thought drew him into a mysterious state, showing him flashbacks of his good and bad times on Earth and his brief time here.
What he was experiencing was enlightenment, a thing cultivators would experience once they are at the bottleneck in cultivation.
After about an hour, he opened his eyes, they were clear as the night sky and shined with newfound wisdom, "Ethan, Lila, Isabela, I left you but here is where I shall live. Be truly alive, and not be restricted by my past."
He also remembered Anne and James, Lucas and Nicole, people who were the reason his life was so difficult, so empty. The feeling of emptiness filled him again, and the depression and anxiety started to dwell in his soul.
Right as he was about to fall into that state again, a melodious voice pulled him out of the darkness, "Hua'er, what's wrong? You seemed troubled earlier, and now your qi is in chaos."
Lian Hua entered the room, but to Zhi Hua, it was like light itself entered. Immediately the room seemed a little less dark, and something in his heart trembled, "Mother…"
But before he could even say anything, she embraced him, a hug full of motherly love: "My Hua'er, it will be okay. I don't know what troubles you, but you have White Cloud Sword Sect, Lian Clan, and me and your father."
Patting his head, she whispered, "You are not alone." That was the moment he broke down, all past experiences told him not to trust her, but a spark of hope once lit can't be extinguished easily.
Tears rolled down his face, and his quickened breath showed his level of anxiety. Trembling he hugged her tighter.
After half an hour he calmed down, looking embarrassed. She pulled apart, and seeing her son calmer she waved her hand, and out of her storage ring a guzheng appeared.
The guzheng was jade white, its strings golde, and it gave a serene and mysterious aura, it sat on her lap, "This guzheng was made from an old peach tree, it was a gift from my mother." She stoked a few notes and the melody it created was heavenly, immediately it washed away my thoughts. A sad look appeared in Lian Hua's eyes, though it quickly vanished.
"Your father has given you his lesson, now it's time for me, as I don't want to be left behind. This piece is my heart, called 'Flow of Life - Eternal Harmoney'."
She took a deep breath, her fingers lightly touching the strings. "Hua'er, let me show you a technique I created myself," she said, her voice filled with pride and affection. "It embodies the essence of life through the power of music."
With a graceful motion, she began to play. The first notes of Blossoms Awakening (花开初绽) echoed through the room, each sound like a flower blooming. The melody filled the air with the freshness and vibrancy of spring, rejuvenating Zhi Hua both physically and mentally.
Zhi Hua could feel the energy coursing through him, revitalizing his spirit. "Mother, this is incredible." He whispered, awe-struck by the beauty and power of the technique
She smiled warmly, full of pride, "This is just the beginning." The notes became brighter and more energetic, reflecting the fullness of Sunlit Serenade (阳光小夜曲). The air around them warmed, and Zhi Hua felt an invigorating surge of strength and vitality. The melody was alive with the exuberance of summer, filling him with a renewed sense of purpose.
"Remember, Hua'er, this is the peak of life," Lian Hua said, her fingers dancing over the strings. "Embrace it with all your heart."
As the music shifted again, it took on a rich, mellow tone, symbolizing Golden Harvest (金色丰收). The essence of autumn flowed through the notes, bringing wisdom and maturity. Zhi Hua felt a deep calm settle over him, his thoughts clearer, his mind sharper. The melody carried the weight of experience and the rewards of a life well-lived.
Lian Hua's eyes met Zhi Hua's, a silent understanding passing between them. "With age comes wisdom, my son," she said softly. "Cherish the lessons you've learned."
Finally, the music softened, becoming gentle and contemplative. The notes of Silent Snowfall (静雪飘落) filled the valley, mirroring the quiet descent of snowflakes. The air grew cooler, and a serene tranquility enveloped them. Zhi Hua felt a peaceful acceptance, understanding that this was the natural conclusion of life's cycle.
"Death is but a part of the journey," Lian Hua whispered, her eyes filled with warmth and a bit of sadness. "Embrace it with grace and peace."
As the last note faded, Zhi Hua opened his eyes, feeling a profound connection to the world around him. His mother smiled, her presence a beacon of strength and love.
'Yes, I'm Noah, but my past does not define me.' As that thought flashed, a small piece of darkness was replaced by light. But darkness was still there, just outshined by his mother's light.
An idea popped into his head, 'What if I learn to play guzheng? After all, I do have unparalleled talent in it.' Thinking about it for a moment, he hesitated.
Lian Hua stood up and said, with great care, "You know you can tell me everything." She smiled warmly, giving him hope that he so badly wanted to cling to. But his heart didn't let him because of all his past experiences.
He mustered all his strength he opened his mouth, his hands trembling, "Could you… could you teach me how to play? I would like to learn." He closed his eyes expecting a dismissing look, and not wanting to see it on her face he shut his eyes.
His heartbeat rose, trying to fight the urge to open his eyes and look upon her, all dismissive and indifferent.
Lian Hua paused. For a moment, the room was silent except for the sound of their breathing. When she spoke, her voice was soft and filled with warmth.
"Of course, my dear Hua'er." She reached out, gently placing her hand over his trembling ones. "I would be honored to teach you."
Zhi Hua's eyes fluttered open, disbelief and hope mingling in his gaze. "Really?" His voice was barely above a whisper, the vulnerability in his tone palpable.
Lian Hua smiled a tender expression that lit up her face. "Really. You have a natural talent, Hua'er. I've seen it in the way you move, the way you listen to the world around you. Music is a part of you, just waiting to be discovered."
She sat down and adjusted the guzheng on her lap, creating space for him to sit beside her. "Come, sit with me. Let's start with the basics."
Zhi Hua hesitated for a moment before moving to sit next to his mother, his heart pounding in his chest. As he settled beside her, Lian Hua guided his hands to the strings, her touch gentle and reassuring.
"This is called 'Blossoms Awakening,'" she said, plucking a few notes with practiced ease. "Listen to each note, feel the rhythm. Music is not just about playing the notes; it's about expressing your emotions, telling a story."
Zhi Hua watched intently, trying to mimic her movements. His initial attempts were clumsy, his fingers fumbling on the strings. But Lian Hua's patience never wavered.
"Take your time, Hua'er. Music is a journey, not a race." She played a few more notes, the melody soothing and uplifting.
Slowly, Zhi Hua's fingers began to find their way. The notes he produced were hesitant, but there was a budding confidence in his movements. With each strum, he felt a little bit of the darkness lift, replaced by the light of hope and connection.
Seeing that he was getting better at playing music at a fast pace, Zhi Hua felt a profound sense of gratitude towards the Transcendent Being. 'I could only be here because of it, so I will live for it at least.' He resolved.
This newfound purpose and appreciation for the second chance he had been given motivated him to continue improving, not just for himself but to honor the opportunity bestowed upon him. This determination fueled his practice and growth, reinforcing his commitment to make the most of his new life.
As the lesson continued, Zhi Hua lost himself in the music, his anxieties and fears fading into the background. For the first time in a long while, he felt truly at peace, a sense of belonging in his heart.
As she watched her son, Lian Hua, could tell he would become one of if not the best music cultivators in the Xiang Dynasty, 'He will probably suppress me in less the a decade. I needed thirty years to make this technique, and another ten to master it. I was called a genius in Music Arts but compared to my son, I was just ordinary.'
Looking in awe, 'He will probably master it in less than a year.' A hearty laugh escaped her mouth, "Haha, when I see how you improve I can't help but be jealous and proud. Jealous, because of your talent, and proud, I'm your mother."
As she said that, he stopped practicing and stared at her in silence. The last note played echoed in the room, and it was the first note of Silent Snowfall. His thoughts spiraled around the word 'proud', a word he hadn't heard from anyone except Clare. She was the only person that had been proud of him.
Lian Hua took the spark she had lit earlier and nurtured it, transforming it into a fire that burned brightly with hope for a second chance. Her unwavering support and the healing power of her music fanned the flames of his newfound purpose, illuminating the path forward.
Zhi Hua felt this warmth envelop him, guiding him toward a future filled with potential and promise, 'I can deal with my emptiness because I'm not alone, mother and father are with me, as well as the whole sect and Lian Clan.'
He continued the practice under his mother's watch, giving him the attention he so desperately needed. The warmth of her presence and her patient guidance provided him with a sense of security and belonging. As they practiced, Zhi Hua felt a profound connection to the music, each note resonating with his soul.
In a moment of deep focus, he learned the piece Silent Snowfall right there and then, the notes flowing naturally from his fingers. Having experienced death, the melody carried a weight of understanding and acceptance that was unique to him. This accomplishment wasn't just a testament to his talent, but also to the depth of his experiences and his journey towards healing.
Lian Hua, however, was shocked. Her loving expression turned into one of disbelief, 'How did he learn Silent Snowfall first? You would need to…' Shaking her head, she thought, 'No, that's impossible. I've been with Hua'er since his birth, and he always stayed in the sect. He couldn't have experienced death, right?'
The realization left her in awe and concern. Zhi Hua continued to play, lost in the melody, unaware of his mother's internal turmoil. Lian Hua decided to keep her doubts to herself for the time being, focusing instead on supporting her son. Her resolve strengthened, she watched him with renewed determination, ready to guide him through whatever lay ahead. Though she made a note for herself, 'I need to talk to Jian about this.'
As Zhi Hua stopped playing, Lian Hua stood up, moved forward, and hugged him tightly. She thought to herself, 'I don't know what made you feel this way, but I will help you cope with that sadness.' Hugging him a bit tighter, she whispered, "It will be okay, my Hua'er."
In her embrace, Zhi Hua felt a wave of warmth and comfort wash over him. The love and support from his mother gave him the strength to face his emotions. He hugged her back, feeling a little less alone in his struggles.
Though a spark of hope and trust was ignited, he couldn't fully shake off the shadows of his past. The deep scars from years of neglect and betrayal held him back from trusting her wholeheartedly. 'I wish I could trust you, but they broke me too much.' he thought, feeling the weight of his past.
He felt sorry for her because she was showing so much support but he couldn't make himself trust her wholeheartedly. Yet, her unwavering support was a beacon of light, slowly guiding him toward a place of safety and acceptance.
Lian Hua's resolve to help him cope with his sadness became a guiding light for Zhi Hua. With her by his side, he felt more confident in his journey of healing and self-discovery, even if his trust was still in the process of being fully rebuilt.
As they pulled apart, Lian Hua looked at him deeply before saying, "Your father wanted to see you, go to his quarters. He has something important to discuss with you." Zhi Hua was filled with anticipation, nervousness, and a bit of fear.
Taking a deep breath, Zhi Hua nodded and went out, 'This will be my first time leaving the courtyard. I hope everything goes well.' His hands started to tremble a bit as he walked, the weight of anticipation, nervousness, and a deep-seated fear pressing down on him.
To arrive at his father's quarters, he had to cross the main road, a bustling place full of disciples and occasionally elders. The thought of facing so many people intensified his fear. Memories of past judgments and harsh words flooded his mind, making him walk a bit slower in hesitation. 'Father could come to my courtyard if it's important,' he thought.
He stopped at that thought, shaking his head. 'No, they didn't ask anything from me. The least I can do is not be an inconvenience.' Despite his fear of being judged and the ghosts of his past, he steeled himself.
As he crossed the main road, he observed the disciples training and elders conversing. Each glance in his direction felt like a potential judgment, amplifying his anxiety. His hands trembled more, and as anxiety rose, a person approached him, he looked to be in his early 20s.
He was dressed in a deep blue robe and had his brown hair tied in a ponytail looking imposing. As he approached Zhi Hua's breath quickened making him look rather distressed. He had sharp features and brown eyes that pierced through Zhi Hua's newfound confidence.
As he stopped in front of Zhi Hua, he stood for a moment, but that moment felt like an eternity to him, intensifying his emotions. Suddenly the man clasped his hands, "Disciple Zhen Nihu greets Eldest Senior Brother!"
As he said that many people looked over curiously, seeing the son of the Sect Leader was difficult. He was a genius, born only once a century, and achieved Qi Refinement before his thirties.
Zhi Hua felt a mix of pride and anxiety. 'Why do I still feel like I don't belong here?' he thought, struggling to maintain his composure. The attention from the surrounding disciples and elders only added to his unease.
Zhen Nihu's greeting was both respectful and formal, yet his presence was intimidating. "It is an honor to see you, Eldest Senior Brother," Zhen Nihu continued, his voice steady and clear.
Zhi Hua nodded, trying to steady his breath. "Thank you, Disciple Zhen Nihu," he replied, his voice wavering slightly. "I am on my way to see my father."
Zhen Nihu looked rather disappointed, but it was quickly concealed, 'So you chose that path.' A sad look appeared in his eyes but quickly vanished, "Of course," he said, stepping aside with a slight bow. "May your path be smooth, Eldest Senior Brother."
As Zhi Hua was walking many whispered around him, "So that is the son of Sect Leader, I haven't seen him in two years." Many of the whispers made Zhi Hua doubt himself but he distracted himself by observing his surroundings.
He noticed the intricate carvings on the temple walls, the disciplined movements of the disciples' training, and the serene beauty of the blooming trees. The sect was filled with various trees, their blossoms adding vibrant splashes of color and a fragrant aroma to the air.
Among them, the cherry blossoms stood out with their delicate pink petals gently drifting in the breeze. The plum trees, with their deep purple and white flowers, created a striking contrast against the greenery. The sweet scent of jasmine filled the air, its white blossoms adding a touch of purity and serenity.
Each observation helped him ground himself, easing his anxiety little by little. Despite the whispers and his lingering doubts, Zhi Hua felt a small spark of determination grow within him.
As he watched Zhi Hua leave, Zhen Nihu looked rather disappointed, but it was quickly concealed. 'He really doesn't remember me. The eldest Senior Brother sure is cruel. After just a mere three years, you still don't remember me?' A sad look appeared in his eyes but quickly vanished, as he clenched his fists.
Three years ago, Zhi Hua and Zhen Nihu were inseparable. They had sworn brotherhood under the ancient cherry blossom tree, vowing to support each other through thick and thin. Together, they faced countless challenges, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. They shared dreams, aspirations, and even secrets.
But everything changed when a woman named Qin Ming entered their lives. Qin Ming was as beautiful as she was talented, captivating the hearts of many disciples within the sect. Both Zhi Hua and Zhen Nihu found themselves drawn to her, their brotherly bond tested by their feelings for her.
Qin Ming, with her charm and intelligence, had other plans. She sought to manipulate Zhi Hua, aiming to become his wife and secure her position within the sect. Lian Hua, Zhi Hua's mother and a Great Elder, quickly saw through Qin Ming's disguise. Using her authority, she banished Qin Ming from the sect, protecting her son from manipulation.
However, the damage had already been done. The rivalry and misunderstandings between Zhi Hua and Zhen Nihu had grown too deep. Feeling betrayed and hurt, Zhen Nihu distanced himself, leaving a chasm in their once unbreakable bond. In an attempt to move forward, Zhi Hua chose to forget about Zhen Nihu, burying the painful memories and focusing on his cultivation and training.
Now, however, watching Zhi Hua walk away, Zhen Nihu couldn't help but feel the sting of those old wounds. 'So much has changed,' he thought, 'but I will not let this be the end of us. One day, I will remind you of our bond, and we will be brothers again.'
Unaware of the feelings of Zhen Nihu, Zhi Hua struggled with his feelings of anxiety and nervousness, as he walked toward his father's quarters. As he was about to knock, he heard his father's voice from inside, "Hua'er, come in"
And taking a deep breath he walked in.
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