As I stepped out of the cave, I encountered the monkey who had faithfully safeguarded me throughout my secluded cultivation. I had nothing of significant value to repay its kindness, but I felt compelled to express my gratitude.
"Take the remaining Spiritual Food I have and use it to further your own advancement," I conveyed, offering all of my food to the monkey.
Although the monkey likely did not comprehend my words, it understood the gesture and expressed its gratitude. It was the only means I had at my disposal to assist and reciprocate its loyalty.
With that task completed, it was finally time to bid farewell to the Dark Wood Forest after an extended period. However, before embarking on any further endeavors, I yearned for a refreshing shower. Although my meditation had cleansed my body on a spiritual level, it did not compare to the soothing sensation of bathing in cool, revitalizing waters.
Thus, I set out in search of a suitable lake or river, propelled by the ability to fly. Yes, I could fly! Prior to attaining the Foundation Establishment realm, only a select few cultivators possessed the means to fly using coveted treasures such as expensive flying swords. However, I had acquired the ability to fly solely through the utilization of my Qi.
To execute this feat, one typically had to learn and master a flying spell, similar to any other offensive or supportive technique. Yet, I found myself blessed with a superior flying spell bestowed upon me by the Golden Dragon Carp.
Harnessing my Qi to replicate the spell inscribed within my mind, a resplendent golden light enveloped my body, propelling me skyward at a breathtaking velocity. This newfound speed far surpassed my previous capabilities, rendering traversing vast stretches of land significantly easier and more efficient.
I flew above the forest, enjoying an even more breathtaking view than before. However, I was cautious not to venture too deep into the unknown. After all, there could be beasts lurking with strength equal to or greater than mine, ready to attack.
Despite being in a realm of respectable power, I humbly acknowledged that I was merely a frog in the well, as I had learned from countless novels. Interestingly, my friend was an actual frog, which added a touch of irony to the situation.
Nonetheless, from my privileged vantage point, it didn't take long to spot a nearby lake. As I gracefully soared towards it, my keen eye caught something peculiar.
An eerie silence engulfed the forest. No cultivators or beasts were present, as if they had vanished into thin air. Curiosity gripped me, and suddenly, a realization struck my mind like a lightning bolt.
"They're fleeing from me!"
The leakage of a tremendous amount of Qi upon reaching the Foundation realm had alerted every cultivator and beast in the vicinity that a significant event had occurred. Was it a human cultivator? A formidable beast? Friend or foe? These questions undoubtedly raced through their minds, causing them to exercise caution and wait for the dust to settle, which meant holding off for a day or two.
Not that I cared about any of that, but having a crystal clear lake all to myself was truly a delight! The refreshing water made me feel like I had stumbled upon a paradise. I savored every second, relishing in the sensation of washing away all the accumulated dirt and grime.
As I gazed at my reflection on the water's surface, I couldn't help but notice a slight increase in my height. From my previous 1.86 meters, I seemed to have grown to around 1.88 meters. My skin appeared flawless, and my muscles had become more defined, giving me a lean and pleasing physique.
My hair had also grown, extending past my shoulders. Perhaps I should consider getting a trim once I entered the sect?
After thoroughly enjoying my invigorating bath in the lake, I made a brief stop to test whether I had acquired enough power to open the inheritance Ye Hu had discovered. To put it succinctly, I hadn't. It remained as impenetrable as before, defying all attempts to unlock its secrets. The Foundation realm alone was not sufficient to unveil the mysteries concealed within.
I had a general idea of where the Flying Sword Lotus Sect was located, the very one that old geezer Sun Liang belonged to. Although not far from the Dark Wood Forest, it still took me an entire day to reach my destination!
The flying spell I had mastered was truly remarkable! From high up in the sky, I witnessed sprawling plains, majestic mountains, winding rivers and lakes, bustling cities, and humble villages. It was a breathtaking sight! Despite the dangers that lurked in this world, I couldn't deny its beauty. Everything seemed larger here, allowing nature to flourish without constant interference. Trees remained standing, untouched, giving the surroundings a unique harmony and tranquility.
This inherent connection with nature bestowed everything with a profound sense of peace and purpose.
The sect Sun Liang had instructed me to join resided on a mountain so lofty it almost brushed against the clouds. A magnificent waterfall cascaded down the mountainside, transforming into a mighty river that fostered the growth of nearby villages.
I made a stop in one of those villages, the closest one before entering the sect's territory.
"What day is it?" I inquired of the first villager I encountered.
The middle-aged man regarded me with a mixture of confusion and curiosity but still provided an answer.
"It is the thirteenth of Calistril, year 883. Why do you ask so suddenly?"
I didn't respond directly but instead used my mental faculties to calculate the elapsed time since I had left my farm. It had been approximately 343 days. Since a year in this world also consisted of 365 days, I had arrived in time for the Elder test.
With a sigh of relief, I simply said, "Thank you."
After that, I made my way toward the mountain. There was a path that led straight to the sect. The villagers saw me, and a few of them warned, "The sect isn't recruiting yet. Wait for a few more years! It is dangerous to go there!"
Despite their warnings, I simply ignored them and kept moving. They all thought I would perish there, unaware of my hidden cultivation level. However, the truth was that I aimed to become the youngest Elder in the sect's history!