Han Qingyu gazed at the bustling markets, her silver eyes lighting up as she spotted high-tier spiritual herbs displayed by merchants. “This place is beautiful,” she remarked, her voice tinged with wonder.
Shen Yuan chuckled. “It’s a treasure trove for cultivators and merchants alike. Let’s explore the city a bit.”
They wandered through the streets, Han Qingyu stopping occasionally to examine herbs and artifacts while Shen Yuan observed her with quiet amusement.
At one stall, an elderly merchant offered a rare Blazing Moonflower, which Han Qingyu purchased, knowing it would be quite useful for alchemical purposes.
As they prepared to leave the empire, a group of rogue cultivators blocked their path, their leader grinning arrogantly. “Hand over your treasures, and we’ll let you go unharmed.”
Shen Yuan sighed, stepping forward with a calm expression. “Why are there so many of you bastards everywhere?”
The fight was brief and decisive. Shen Yuan’s sword sliced with precision, his movements fluid and lethal.
Han Qingyu supported him with her spear, her Tempest Spear Art scattering their foes like leaves in a storm. The rogues died or fled, leaving behind their stolen loot, which Shen Yuan returned to the local city before they continued on their way.
…
The journey led them next to the Crimson Sun Imperial Empire, a land of vibrant deserts and towering sandstone cities.
The empire was renowned for its martial prowess and its allegiance to the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect. Read the latest on empire
Han Qingyu admired the crimson-hued architecture, holding Shen Yuan’s hand lightly as they walked through the bustling streets. “I’ve heard the cultivators of this region are among the most reckless in the region,” she said.
“They are,” Shen Yuan replied. “But they also value companionship and loyalty above all else. That’s why the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect holds such sway here.”
In the heart of the empire’s capital, they were invited to a grand banquet by one of the Dukes, an old ally of the sect.
The feast was a lively affair, with music, dancing, and spirited conversation.
Han Qingyu’s reserved demeanor softened as she laughed at Shen Yuan’s occasional jokes, her heart melting even further for him.
During the banquet, the Crown Prince, Yan Xihuang, approached Shen Yuan, seeking guidance in swordsmanship.
With a faint smile, Shen Yuan offered a brief demonstration, his movements so precise and graceful that even the higher-ranked cultivators in the banquet watched in awe.
As they left the Crimson Sun Empire, Han Qingyu glanced at Shen Yuan. “You enjoy teaching, don’t you?”
“It’s… fulfilling,” Shen Yuan nodded. “It’s a way to pass on knowledge and see others grow. After all, I don’t want these awesome techniques to be lost with me if I left one day.”
…
The towering peaks of the Radiant Lotus Sacred Sect came into view as the sun began its descent.
The familiar sight of the sect, its various peaks bathed in golden light, filled Han Qingyu with a sense of belonging.
As they approached the sect gates, disciples began to whisper amongst themselves as they saw Han Qingyu seated in front of Shen Yuan, while those at the front greeted him with respect without daring to pass a remark.
Han Qingyu couldn’t help but notice the admiration in their eyes, though Shen Yuan seemed unaffected by the attention.
At the main gates, Shen Yuan dismounted and helped Han Qingyu down. She stood before him, her silver eyes meeting his. “This is where we part ways, isn’t it?” she asked softly.
“Huh? No, not at all. This is where our new life will begin,” Shen Yuan replied, his voice filled with tenderness. “You can come and visit me anytime, you know.”
Han Qingyu hesitated, then reached out, her fingers brushing against his. “Thank you… for everything.”
Shen Yuan smiled, his hand resting on hers. “You’ve made this journey quite fun for me, and I was able to accomplish the things that I needed to do there as well.”
He stood quietly for a moment, watching Han Qingyu as she prepared to return to her duties. A sudden thought struck him, and his brows furrowed slightly.
“Wait,” he said, reaching into his inventory. “There’s something I almost forgot.”
Han Qingyu tilted her head, curiosity flashing in her eyes. “What is it, Brother Yuan?”
From the inventory, Shen Yuan retrieved an ancient jade slip, its surface glowing faintly with a golden light. “This is an inheritance that I came across during one of my adventures. It’s a perfect match for you.”
Han Qingyu’s silver eyes widened as she reached out to take the jade slip. “An inheritance? For me?”
Shen Yuan nodded, his expression serious. “It’s not just any inheritance. The Verdant Ember Phoenix Legacy will enhance your cultivation and synergize with your physique, allowing you to unleash its full potential.
“However, it will require you to change your current cultivation technique just like Wan Ling did. And that will once again be extremely hard.”
Han Qingyu held the jade slip close, her gaze filled with gratitude. “Thank you, Brother Yuan. I’ll make sure to cultivate diligently.”
Shen Yuan smiled, placing a hand on her shoulder. “I know you will. But it’s best to practice this in seclusion. Let me send you to a secluded space where you can focus without distractions.”
Han Qingyu’s eyes lit up as she asked, “Is it the same place where you sent Wan Ling?”
Shen Yuan nodded his head with a smile as he waved his hand.
A portal appeared into existence, glowing faintly with otherworldly lights.
“This space will help you make the most of your time,” Shen Yuan explained. “You’ll be able to focus on your cultivation, and I’ll check on you periodically.”
Han Qingyu stepped closer to the portal, her silver eyes meeting his one last time. “I won’t let you down, Brother Yuan.”
“I know you won’t,” Shen Yuan said softly, his gaze warm. “Now go. I’ll handle everything else here.”
Han Qingyu nodded and stepped through the portal, disappearing into the otherworldly lights.
The portal closed behind her, leaving Shen Yuan standing alone at the sect gates.
…
Shen Yuan entered the sect administrative hall, his presence drawing immediate attention.
The disciples and elders present turned toward him, their expressions a mix of awe and curiosity.
An elder stepped forward, her brow slightly furrowed. “Shen Yuan, you’ve returned. What of the disciples who accompanied you? Han Qingyu and Wan Ling?”
Shen Yuan clasped his hands politely. “They are both safe. I have made sure of that.”
The elder nodded, though her expression remained skeptical. “It’s good to hear they are safe, but the Sect Master will want a full report on this journey of yours since she pays special attention to you. And where exactly—”
Before the elder could finish, a commanding voice cut through the air.
“That’s enough. I’ll handle this.”
Everyone turned as Huo Rong strode into the Administrative Hall. Her very presence exuded authority, and the disciples stepped back respectfully, bowing as she approached.
Huo Rong’s crimson robes flowed gracefully as she stopped beside Shen Yuan, her sharp eyes sweeping over the gathered elders. “My little brother doesn’t need to explain himself to everyone here. If there’s a report to be made, it’ll be given directly to the Sect Master.”
The elder hesitated, then bowed her head. “Of course, Elder Huo Rong.”