Seeing the three groups disperse, Yi Ling followed the path Jin Minzhe took. She trusted Linyu and the Viridis to handle their tasks but couldn't help worrying about Jin Minzhe, mainly because of the varied intentions of the people who followed him. Many were sent to scout her sect under the pretense of joining.
Xiang He was also informed of the plan. Yi Ling sent him to assist the Viridis. She wasn't entirely convinced of the Viridis' loyalty yet. While it followed Linyu's orders, she couldn't trust it fully. She wanted to subdue the tree spirit until it fully submitted to her, but this would have to wait until she was stronger than the Viridis. For now, she trusted Linyu to manage the Viridis, and Xiang He to accompany them.
The Blue Rose Sect categorized disciples into four factions: The Medical Court, The Outer Court, The Inner Court, and the Jade Court.
The Medical Court was for individuals interested in medicine.
The Outer Court consisted of individuals below the Dawning Stage.
The Inner Court welcomed individuals above the Dawning Stage.
The Jade Court was for individuals deemed worthy of guidance by the elders and the Sect Master.
Each court received different monthly allowances, including concoctions and resources, based on contributions to the sect and personal growth. The Sect Master was Yi Jin, with elders Linyu, Haoran (The Viridis), and Minzhe. Xiang He was the first disciple of the Jade Court. This information was narrated to the crowds by the three groups.
All groups had to undergo further tests to determine which court they belonged to. For now, the Jade Court was off-limits; one had to work their way up by becoming stronger and completing sect tasks. Additionally, joining the Jade Court required the Sect Master's recognition.
Yi Ling had a more advanced scheme in mind to test patience and determination in achieving tasks.
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In Jin Minzhe's group, he directed them to the Burdened Forest, a mid-level spiritual beast territory. Handing out tokens, he said:
"Go inside the forest and stay there for seven days. After seven days, present your tokens as proof of completing the task. Write your names on the tokens to identify ownership. If you lose your token, you will be disqualified from joining the sect."
This made the crowd nervous, especially the solo participants. The spies and stronger individuals smirked, confident in their abilities. Jin Minzhe waved them off, sending them on their way.
Jin Minzhe smiled slyly, knowing he had omitted that the tokens were special. They would disappear if they encountered another token holder, preventing theft. The tokens could perceive the owner's intentions, affecting only those with evil intentions.
Yi Ling arrived as the crowd dispersed. Sensing his mother, Minzhe transformed back into his five-year-old form. Yi Ling opened her arms as he ran to her, lifting him up.
"You did a good job, Zhe'er. Let's go and visit the others." Yi Ling carried him and walked towards where the Viridis and Xiang He were.
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Bonus Story: Haoran Who?
Linyu: You know, you can't always let the Viridis act like he can do whatever he wants.
ElleJaye: But that's supposed to be his character?
Linyu: Meh.. I don't like it! Also, why doesn't he have his own name yet?
ElleJaye: Well, I didn't really have any idea in mind. Also, not like it matters, right?
Linyu: It matters to me! Do you know how hard it is for me to talk to that stalker!? And I can't even address him properly; he doesn't have a name for me to call!
ElleJaye: Hmm. That does make sense. What would be a good name then?
Linyu: *rubbing his chin* Let me think...
At that moment, ElleJaye noticed the Viridis eavesdropping. The Viridis was always perceptive towards Linyu, thinking it was because he wanted to serve and learn everything his King wanted and needed.
But in ElleJaye's mind, she thought otherwise. Her lips curled as she thought of the reason. The Viridis came from her imagination, so of course, there was a purpose. A big hunky guy like the Viridis was a good fit partner for Linyu. Plants can be both male and female, as science says. She laughed evilly in her head.
Linyu: I got it! How 'bout Haoran?
ElleJaye was startled. She had almost forgotten their conversation, her thoughts running wild. But before she could respond, the Viridis emerged from his hiding place and rushed towards Linyu.
Viridis: Your Highness!!! *jumps and hugs Linyu*..
Linyu: *cough cough* WTH! Get off me!
Viridis: You named me, Your Highness! I'm all yours now!!!! *blushing coyly*
Linyu: WTF?! Seriously!? That doesn't work that way!
Viridis: No matter, I'll follow you everywhere, Your Highness! I'm yours to command and yours for the taking! *head moving closer to Linyu, trying to get a kiss*
Linyu: *shoves hand to his face* GET OFF ME!! YOU MANIAC!!
ElleJaye: Ohohoho... What a lovely scene. *laughs evilly*
After all, spirit herbs can only be named by their masters. >w<