Chương 19: Chapter 49- Finding a New Home

The group of alchemists and cultivators had gathered in a small room in one of the buildings of the 4th District. The room was dimly lit with flickering candles and filled with the scent of various herbs and potions. The mood was tense, as the members discussed the recent developments in the Union.

Alchemist Li sat in a corner, fidgeting with his hands, his face creased with worry. "What are we going to do now?" he asked, looking around at the other members. "We can't just sit here and do nothing. We need a plan."

Alchemist Zhou, who was known for his boisterous personality, let out a loud laugh. "Relax, my friend," he said, clapping a hand on Li's shoulder. "This might even turn into a fortunate situation. We're free from the constraints of the Union and the Empire. Think of all the possibilities."

The group fell into silence as they pondered Zhou's words. Some nodded in agreement, while others still looked unsure. Alchemist Mao Wenlin spoke up, her voice firm. "We need to focus on what's important. We need to ensure that we have the resources to continue our research and practices."

Alchemist Ding Gen, who was known for his level-headedness, nodded in agreement. "We also need to consider our safety. The Empire won't take kindly to us breaking away from the Union."

Alchemist Ding Gen sat with a furrowed brow, observing Alchemist Zhou who seemed to be unbothered by their current situation. He couldn't help but be curious about Zhou's relaxed demeanor. "Zhou," Ding Gen spoke up, his voice stern. "What's the reason behind your carefree attitude? We're in a grim situation here, don't dilly dally. Tell us what's on your mind."

Zhou let out a laugh, enjoying the rare moment where he was the center of attention amongst his genius peers. "Oh, come on, Ding Gen. Let me have my moment," he said with a grin.

Alchemist Mao Wenlin let out a sigh, her brow furrowed with worry. "Zhou, you're being childish. Let me tell them-"

But before she could continue, Zhou cut her off with a wave of his hand. "No, no, I'm not letting you rob me of my spotlight." He chuckled, his eyes shining with a hint of mischief.

Alchemist Zhou chuckled, relishing the opportunity to take control of the conversation in the presence of such talented individuals. "I have something to share with all of you," he said, a twinkle in his eye. "Du Hong had a rare encounter..." he declared, a grin spreading across his face.

But before he could continue, Alchemist Li interrupted him, his tone sharp. "Why are you acting like a big shot when it was my disciple who chanced upon this rare encounter?"

"You old relic. You have no shame at all. I was the one who took care of your daughter when you are rotting in prison," said Alchemist Zhou

Alchemist Zhou and Alchemist Li bickered back and forth, their words and gestures becoming more animated by the second. Du Hong watched the exchange with amusement, feeling a smile creep onto his face.

Du Hong finally interjected, holding up his hands. "Teacher, let Alchemist Zhou continue. I want to hear what he has to say."

At Du Hong's words, the excitement in Alchemist Zhou's eyes was reignited, and he began to narrate the story. The group listened intently, hanging on every word as he spoke of their plan, the life and energy in his voice palpable.

Alchemist Zhou continued his tale, his voice ringing with excitement and awe as he spoke of the wondrous things they had encountered. His audience listened with rapt attention, their expressions shifting from skepticism to amazement as Zhou revealed one incredible discovery after another.

He told them of Du Hong's withered arm that had been miraculously healed, the cursed toxin that had plagued Li Jing and been lifted by Thousand Years Decoction, the Rainbow Antidote that had saved countless lives from the deadly poison of the Imperial Basilisk. The Powder of the Hibernating Mortal Bloom, a cure for the illnesses that plagued the people of the fourth district, was also mentioned. The awe in the room reached a peak when Zhou spoke of the Muse Symphony and the Inferno Dance alchemy techniques, long lost to time, but now performed once again by this mystery figure. The alchemists in the room were speechless, their eyes shining with amazement as they listened to Zhou's tale.

"Stop the suspense!" cried Alchemist Li, his voice quivering with excitement. "Introduce us to this master!"

But Zhou, ever the mischievous one, pretended not to want to tell them. He teased them, knowing full well the impact his revelation would have. Alchemist Ding Gen grew increasingly frustrated, his patience wearing thin.

Finally, after much prodding from the others, Zhou revealed the identity of the alchemy prodigy who had accomplished all of these incredible feats.

"It's the kid, Juanxiu," he said with a smirk.

The alchemists gasped in disbelief, their eyes wide with shock. They couldn't believe their ears. Was Zhou pulling their leg? But as Du Hong and One-Eyed Lily attested to the truth of Zhou's words, their mouths hung open in stunned disbelief. They could hardly believe that such a young and inexperienced alchemist could have accomplished so much.

The room was filled with the hum of quiet whispers as the alchemists discussed the latest developments. Alchemist Ding Gen and Madam Zhang were deep in conversation, both of them trying to make sense of what they had just heard.

Madam Zhang, the leader of the 4th District, had always suspected that Juanxiu was not just an ordinary child. After asking the resistance group to investigate them, she was already aware of his ability. But now she was struggling to believe what she was hearing.

"Do you think there's a hidden master behind this child?" asked Alchemist Ding Gen, his voice low and full of concern. "We should be careful in how we treat him. Otherwise, this hidden alchemy master might punish us."

Alchemist Li, who had been quietly listening to the conversation, spoke up. "Du Hong, how did you find Juanxiu?" he asked, his tone eager.

Du Hong leaned back in his chair, his thoughts drifting back to the day he had first encountered Juanxiu. He smiled as he remembered the young boy's courage and determination, and the incredible alchemical feats he had accomplished. "It's a long story," he said with a sigh, "but one I'll be happy to share with all of you."

Madam Zhang, Alchemist Ding Gen, and Alchemist Li listened intently as Du Hong narrated his journey to find the Sky Cleansing Pill. They could feel the excitement in his voice as he recounted out the details of his encounter with Juanxiu in the Forgotten Valley.

"When I heard that the Sky Cleansing Pill would be auctioned at the Grand City of Qingyun, I knew that I had to be there," Du Hong said, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "And that's when I met the clan's butler, Tengyang, who led me to Juanxiu."

The top alchemists in the room were in disbelief as Du Hong continued his story. The Forgotten Valley was known to be a dangerous place, filled with toxic beasts and land that was unable to produce crops. But Du Hong told them that he had found a large piece of land in the valley that was free from toxins and thriving with spiritual plants.

"You have to understand, the Nine Great Provinces is vast," Du Hong said, "But to encounter one spiritual plant here is already a trouble. However, at Forgotten Valley, I say rows and rows of mystical plants; that place could be a haven for alchemists."

Alchemist Ding Gen rubbed his chin thoughtfully, "I've always been wary of the Forgotten Valley, the toxins there are potent and the beasts are dangerous. But if what you say is true, then it's a wonder that a child like Juanxiu was able to thrive there."

Alchemist Ding Gen slammed his hand on the table, jolting everyone from their thoughts. "What are we waiting for?" he exclaimed. "We must meet Juanxiu and see for ourselves this haven he has discovered. We must ask him about his place and if he would welcome us with open arms."

The energy in the room shifted, as the group of alchemists who were previously dejected now filled with hope and excitement. Madam Zhang couldn't help but smile, feeling a glimmer of excitement in her chest. It somehow eases the pain she was suffering. Alchemist Li and Du Hong shared a knowing look, both feeling the thrill of discovery and adventure.

"Come on," Ding Gen urged, leading the way towards the door. "Let's go and see this Juanxiu for ourselves." The group quickly followed, their pace quickening with every step they took, eager to meet the alchemy prodigy and uncover the secrets of the Forgotten Valley.

Meanwhile, Juanxiu sat outside, lost in his own thoughts and consumed by feelings of sadness and self-pity. He was reflecting on how his lack of power had led to their defeat in the recent battle. The thought of being treated like trash, like the members of the Alchemist Union and Hao Clan had been by the Shaoying Empire, only fueled his determination to become stronger.

Just as Juanxiu was consumed by these thoughts, he was approached by a group of alchemists. Their robes were tattered and torn from the recent battles, but they greeted Juanxiu with polite respect. Leading the pack was Alchemist Zhou, who smiled at Juanxiu like an old friend. He told Juanxiu that he had shared the story of his incredible feats with the other alchemists. Juanxiu smiled at the recognition, but still felt burdened by his inability to help these people in their time of need.

One-Eyed Lily noticed Juanxiu's sadness and gently placed a hand on his shoulder. "You shouldn't carry all the burden yourself," she said. "We may have been defeated today, but we are still alive. There is always hope for tomorrow." Her words were heartfelt, and Juanxiu felt a sense of comfort and encouragement from her words.

"My boy, don't be too hard on yourself," Alchemist Zhou said as he placed a comforting hand on Juanxiu's shoulder. "What you have accomplished is nothing short of miraculous. We may have lost the battle today, but with you on our side, we have a fighting chance to rise up again. You have given us hope, Juanxiu. And for that, we are eternally grateful."

Juanxiu was taken aback by the sudden request. He looked around and saw the hopeful faces of the alchemists who just survived the battle. Alchemist Li stepped forward and spoke in a heartfelt tone, "Juanxiu, we have heard of your incredible abilities and have seen it firsthand in the battle today. We have lost our home and our hope, but we have found both in you. Will you take us in, provide us with a safe haven?"

Madam Zhang nodded in agreement, "We are all in this together now. We will follow you and support you in any way we can. We believe in you and your abilities."

Alchemist Ding Gen also added, "We have heard of the spiritual plants and the neutralized toxins in the Forgotten Valley. It's a dream come true for us alchemists. If you take us in, we will help you in any way we can. We will work together to make that dream a reality."

Juanxiu was touched by their words and saw the sincerity in their eyes. He took a deep breath and looked at each of them, "In the name of my father and the Hao Clan, will take you all in. We will rebuild and start anew. I am still young and you have to guide me for my lack of experience."

The alchemists cheered in excitement and hugged each other, relieved that they have found a new home. They all knew that the journey ahead will be challenging, but they were ready to face it with Juanxiu leading the way.

As they all walked back to the shelter, Juanxiu couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging with these alchemists. He never thought that he would find a family in a place like this, especially after everything that has happened. It felt like a weight was lifted off his shoulders, knowing that he had people who believed in him and were willing to support him in his journey.