Chereads / The Heaven Ruler / Chapter 4 - Chapter 4: Homecoming and Gratitude

Chapter 4 - Chapter 4: Homecoming and Gratitude

As Li Wei journeyed back home, the memories of the fallen sovereign and his determination fueled his every step. In a few short hours, he honed his instincts, his senses heightened to their peak. His awareness of the surrounding environment sharpened, allowing him to anticipate and evade potential dangers effortlessly.

Fortune favored him during his travels, as luck intervened and led him to stumble upon a hidden grove. To his amazement, it was abundant with the very Tranquil Lotus herbs he had set out to collect. With gratitude in his heart, Li Wei carefully harvested the precious herbs, grateful for the unexpected stroke of luck that would alleviate his family's financial burdens.

With the herbs safely gathered, Li Wei continued his journey home, his spirit buoyed by the unexpected turn of events. He reflected on the significance of this fortuitous encounter, realizing that destiny had played a hand in guiding him towards the means to secure his family's well-being.

Though weary from his travels, Li Wei's resolve burned bright. He had faced challenges, honed his instincts, and reaped the rewards of fortune. As he pressed onward, his heart brimming with determination, he knew that this was but the beginning of his path towards enlightenment and the protection of his loved ones.

As night descended upon the town, Li Wei returned from his arduous journey, clutching the precious Tranquil Lotus herbs tightly in his hands. Fatigue tugged at his weary body, but the determination in his eyes burned bright. He made his way to the Town Mission Hall, eager to complete his mission and reap the promised reward.

The hall was quiet, its atmosphere heavy with the drowsiness of those who had retired for the evening. Li Wei approached the clerk, a middle-aged man with tired eyes who looked up from his paperwork as Li Wei entered.

Clerk: (surprised) "Ah, you're back already? I didn't expect to see you so soon. Did you manage to collect the Tranquil Lotus herbs?"

Li Wei: (wearily) "Yes, I have completed the mission. Here are the five Tranquil Lotus herbs as requested."

Li Wei carefully placed the herbs on the counter, their vibrant hues standing out against the dull backdrop of paperwork and dust. The clerk's eyes widened in astonishment, impressed by Li Wei's swift success.

Clerk: (admiringly) "You've done well, young man. Not many can accomplish such a task with such efficiency. You have my respect."

Li Wei's chest swelled with pride, his weariness momentarily forgotten. The clerk's words were a testament to his determination and resilience.

However, it was the clerk's next comment that piqued Li Wei's interest, revealing a hidden aspect of the town he had yet to explore.

Clerk: (offhandedly) "You know, since you are so good at completing missions, with such accuracy and speed, there is an inner part of our town that is quite different from the outer region. It's where the wealthy and strong reside. They have access to better facilities and resources, making life more comfortable for them. There's a better mission hall in there as well, they sometimes give out missions for the outer town residents which they deem as time-wasting, though the payout for them is good. So if you wish then you can check it out, It is right outside the entrance to the inner town."

Li Wei's curiosity was piqued. The notion of a stark divide within the town intrigued him. He had always known that his family belonged to the lower rungs of society, struggling to make ends meet. Now, an opportunity seemed to present itself—a chance to explore the inner part, where untapped possibilities and a path to strength may lie.

Li Wei: (thoughtfully) "Thank you for the information. I'll keep that in mind. Perhaps one day, I'll venture into the inner part and see what lies beyond."

The clerk nodded, a glimmer of admiration in his eyes.

Clerk: "I do not doubt that you will, young man. With the determination you've shown, I believe you'll carve your own path to success."

With a final nod of gratitude, Li Wei bid the clerk farewell and stepped out into the night. The reminder of the town's inner part stirred a newfound resolve within him. He knew that his journey was far from over—there were still challenges to face, skills to master, and strengths to attain. Li Wei walked through the quiet streets, the flickering lamplight casting long shadows as he contemplated the path that lay ahead, ready to grasp the opportunities that awaited him in the unexplored depths of the town's inner region.

Li Wei stepped out of the Town Mission Hall, his mind buzzing with new possible opportunities and dangers in the town's inner part. As he made his way through the bustling streets, he couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. The prospect of exploring a new realm and discovering its secrets fueled his determination even further.

His first priority, however, was to buy medicines for his ailing mother. He navigated the crowded marketplace, the scent of various herbs and spices filling the air. After careful consideration, Li Wei selected a small shop known for its quality medicinal supplies. The old herbalist behind the counter greeted him warmly.

Herbalist: "Ah, young Li Wei, back so soon? What can I help you with today?"

Li Wei: "I need medicines for my mother. The usual ones"

The herbalist nodded understandingly, his eyes filled with empathy.

Herbalist: "I have the remedy pre-made for you. A tonic made from rare herbs that will provide relief and strength. Here, take this."

Li Wei accepted the carefully packaged tonic, grateful for the herbalist's guidance. With the medicine in hand, he made his way back home, the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. As he approached the modest house, he could see the flickering light from within, a beacon of warmth and love.

Upon entering, Li Wei was greeted by his younger sister, Mei Lin, whose face lit up at the sight of her older brother.

Mei Lin: "Li Wei! You're back! We were worried about you. Where have you been all day?"

Li Wei: (smiling) "I apologize for being away for so long, Mei Lin. The I had a mission to complete took longer than expected, and I wanted to make sure I got everything we needed."

Mei Lin's worry turned into relief as she embraced her brother tightly. Li Wei then walked into the room where his mother, Li Mei, sat, her weakened frame a stark contrast to the strength in her eyes.

Li Wei: "Mother, I've returned with the medicine. It will help ease your pain and restore your health."

Li Mei smiled, her voice filled with gratitude and love.

Li Mei: "My son, you always think of us. Thank you for your tireless efforts."

Looking at his mother's smile Li Wei's heart swelled with a mix of emotions—love, determination, and a burning desire to protect his family.