The duo stayed up for a while, and once again, Mr Ming elaborated on his tales of grandeur and brilliance. Unlike other times, he had Taf's undivided attention. There was no room for Taf's usual eye-rolling as he listened. He was captivated by every detail and action, not daring to miss a single word of Old Man Ming's storytelling. Taf had always respected Old Man Ming, but now his respect had reached another level. When had Taf ever thought he would see someone take out four people as quickly as taking out the trash?
At the age of ten, it can be said that Mr Ming became his idol.
After several hours of Old Man Ming's unending tales, Taf finally set off for his room in the attic.
It was quite an intriguing day. He then made his way up the steps to the bedroom.
Taf sat on the bed before taking out his bag, which had accompanied him throughout the day.
In his bag, Taf found what he sought. There, he saw a thick journal that senior Grace had given him.
If old man Ming is this excellent and he is but a mere mortal, how wondrous would it be to be a cultivator?
Excitement kept boiling over in him when the thought had crossed his mind.
After a while, Taf calmed himself down before finally opening the thick journal. Inside, he saw some printing, which then delved into its contents. Written inside were :
{A life in servitude of a cultivator by Duo Fang}
Entry dated 🌟January 9th, XXXX🌟
Today marks a significant day in my life. I am one of the fortunate few chosen to serve a prestigious employer. Upon my acceptance, she promised to pay us all in gold coins for every year of service we provide.
The joy I feel can be described as overwhelming.
Perhaps that in itself is a description that is sub-par. So, no words could describe the unbridled pride that has filled my bones.
Maybe these mortal eyes have not seen enough of the world to say this, but she is unworldly.
As I gaze upon her, I am captivated by her beauty, a presence that fills my heart with unbridled joy. Even on the most tempestuous days, I witness the sun's rays piercing the storm clouds, casting a warm glow upon my face. It seems as though my Master possesses the ability to manipulate the very elements themselves. Her every step intertwines seamlessly with nature as if she is a part of it.
Unable to resist, I find myself sneakily stealing glances at her occasionally. However, I refrain from letting my gaze linger for too long.
On this day, we are finally leaving the city of mortals for a place unknown to me. It's pretty pathetic, isn't it? Laughable if you really think about it. But ever since I laid eyes on this beauty, I have been willing to follow her as far as my eyes can see. I know there's no chance for us, but a heart can dream, can't it?Â
🌟April 2nd, XXXX🌟
Months have passed, and we have finally arrived at our destination. It is a small manor within a sect known as the Mist of Life.
The sect is hundreds of miles long, with thousands upon thousands of manors as small as Master's.
In an instant, all of us mortals were jolted by a sight that profoundly affected us. A towering figure stood proudly, casting an imposing gaze upon us as if we were insignificant ants scattered in the vastness of the sky. At this defining moment, we finally heard our Master's name.
" Junior Mei, how beautiful you are today. I must ask why you chose mortal servants instead of some new recruits.
I know of some new promising recruits. Is that not putting yourself through unnecessary labour? How about discarding yourself of these pitiful burdens." He continued as he scanned all twenty of us.
Rage swept over my entire being after hearing those words. Like a raging beast, I wished nothing more than to tear up his flesh.
As the thought crossed my mind, I felt a pain in my gut, and my eyes were struggling to remain conscious.
As I hit the floor, my eyes looked up only to see the culprit in my injuries looking down on me.
" A mere dog dares to have killing intent towards me." He stated as scorn was displayed all over his face.
Dear brother Carlos, please control your anger. I prefer mortals because they add a more personal touch to the way of doing things without relying on worldly qi. Please accept my apologies," Master Mei bowed.
"Okay, Junior sister. I'll let it rest if so. However, your pups need a bit more home training.
Bug! Be sure to contain your thoughts, or they might just lead to your death," He stated as he looked at me in disdain.
At that moment, I sank into the depths of despair like never before. A searing pain gnawed at my gut, yet it paled in comparison to the shattering blow dealt to my pride. How could I continue to hold my head high as a man after enduring such humiliation? Was this how mortals perceived my cultivators? Is this what I had forsaken my city for? These were the questions that plagued my mind on that fateful day; I questioned myself on that day as my lowest point was reached.
🌟May 12th, XXXX🌟
Several months later, my Master eagerly participated in the sect's yearly tournament. I vividly recall the excitement that radiated from her. Master divulged that if she succeeded, we would relocate to an even more prestigious location than our current abode. The anticipation of this potential move thrilled us servants, but my utmost excitement was reserved for my Master's triumph.
Isn't it that pitiful for a toad to lust after a swan? I do not care, however, as my heart has not given up on the thought.
Throughout the day, Master practiced diligently. As she trained, Carlos came by to offer pointers. I despise him with every fiber of my being, yet I can only hide. I notice Master smiling endlessly every time he appears, teasingly playing with her hair.
Sigh!
How many times can one person's heart be shattered, I wonder? I've been keeping track today, and the count is 276. It feels like a delicate string in my heart is pulled and torn with each tally.
After the tournament, Master returned feeling disappointed. She had bad news; it seemed she was unsuccessful in her attempt to make it to the top one hundred. She acted with strength while holding back tears. In my mind, I comforted her. I envisioned embracing her and soothing her broken spirit with my touch. Then, I planted a kiss on her forehead to assure her that she was the best in my eyes.
"It's only a dream as I see Carlos showing up and holding her tight. I want to be happy for her, but I just can't seem to let thoughts of us go. I know it is pitiful, but even a toad can have dreams, right...?"