Chapter8
As the news of the cancelled engagement between Duan Lingtian and Li Meiying spread through the cultivation world, it became the topic of fervent discussion among clansmen and cultivators alike. The disbelief and surprise that rippled through conversations were fueled by the sudden shift in perception regarding Duan Lingtian. No longer was he considered a mere "trash" as before, and this transformation captured the collective attention of those who were previously dismissive of his potential.
In a dimly lit bar, voices rose above the clinking of glasses, discussing the unexpected turn of events. Some speculated on the reasons behind the engagement's cancellation, unable to comprehend how the clan could have overlooked Duan Lingtian's newfound prowess. The conversation echoed with a mix of curiosity and intrigue, pondering whether there were hidden motives or more complex dynamics at play.
Amid the buzz of speculation, one voice carried a different sentiment—a yearning for Li Meiying's beauty and the allure she held. Her name became synonymous with admiration, and discussions veered from Duan Lingtian's potential to the desirability of his former fiancée. The prospect of her being pursued by other young masters stirred both envy and desire, her beauty seemingly powerful enough to sway even the most ardent of hearts.
Yet, within the grandeur of the duan clan residence, a tempest brewed. The news of the real reason behind the disengagement reached the ears of Duan Lingtian's father, the clan head. His reaction was nothing short of a thunderous rage, a storm of emotions that crackled in the air as he absorbed the betrayal that had unfolded. The realization that Duan Feng, a member of their own clan, had played a role in this disengagement struck at the core of his being, unraveling a tapestry of family ties and honor.
Amidst the swirling emotions, Duan Lingtian's father grappled with a mixture of fury, disappointment, and a sense of helplessness. The rumor mill continued to churn, weaving a narrative of intrigue and scandal that captured the imagination of those within the cultivation world. Whispers of a rumor about the relationship between Li Meiying and the rising star of the duan clan, Duan Feng, spread like wildfire. The frequency of their sightings together, their shared presence in various places, and the glimpses of their apparent intimacy only fueled the growing speculation.
As these whispers evolved into certainties, the confirmation of Li Meiying and Duan Feng's official relationship seemed to piece together the puzzle that had baffled many: the abrupt cancellation of her engagement to Duan Lingtian. The revelation painted a vivid picture of the underlying dynamics that had led to this surprising turn of events.
Among the hushed conversations, mixed sentiments reverberated. Some viewed the situation with a sense of pity for Duan Lingtian, sympathizing with the public humiliation that this revelation brought upon him. The phrase "green hat," often used to describe a man whose partner is unfaithful, echoed through the discussions, underlining the public's understanding of the circumstances. time brought a gradual shift in focus within the cultivation world. Conversations that once buzzed with gossip and speculation shifted toward other matters, and the attention of both cultivators and clansmen started to be redirected towards their own pursuits.
Within the duan clan, however, tensions were far from subsiding. With the clan competition looming on the horizon, the atmosphere was charged with an intense energy. The juniors of the clan found themselves immersed in a flurry of activity, each individual driven by their own aspirations and goals. Some dedicated themselves to rigorous practice, honing their skills and cultivating with renewed determination. Others delved into the depths of their potential, seeking to uncover hidden skills that might serve as trump cards in the impending competition.
For Duan Lingtian, these weeks were marked by a routine of unwavering dedication. His days were a seamless blend of cultivation, training, and reflection. The meditative tranquility within his chambers contrasted sharply with the vibrant energy of the duan clan's training grounds. With each passing practice session, his movements grew more fluid, his execution more precise, and his understanding of his skills deeper.
The transformation within Duan Lingtian was undeniable, his growth evident in the steady progression of his abilities. The echoes of his movements resonated in the chambers where he practiced, a testament to his unwavering commitment to self-improvement. As he faced the approaching clan competition, his mind remained fixed on the goals he had set for himself, each day a step closer to proving his worth and reclaiming his place among the clan's rising stars.
Duan Lingtian's resolute efforts had yielded tangible results, and he felt a deep sense of accomplishment as he assessed his progress. The quiet chamber seemed to hold the weight of his achievements, each milestone etched into the air around him. He had breached the threshold into Foundation Realm IV, his cultivation foundation solidified to its core. His skills had also undergone a transformation, evolving to the level of large success—a testament to his perseverance and dedication.
The controlled release of his breath carried with it a subtle energy, a reflection of the inner power that he had honed through countless hours of cultivation. With a hint of satisfaction in his eyes, Duan Lingtian's murmurs "I have finally broken through In all fields. Now I need to take a break let me go and see father" acknowledging the distance he had traveled on his path of improvement. The sensation of bones popping echoed through the chamber, the sound almost like a melodic tune.
He rose from his seated position, muscles stretching and relaxing in harmony with his movements. The familiar sensation of his body responding to his commands brought about a sense of vitality that flowed through his veins. Duan Lingtian's steps carried him with purpose through the passages of the duan clan's residence. The guards stationed at various points observed his approach, their gazes holding a mixture of recognition and slight pity for the young cultivator who had been making waves within the clan. As he walked, their deference was evident in their gestures, allowing him to pass unobstructed.
His path led him to the grand entrance of the clan leader's residence. The imposing double doors, intricately adorned with symbolic engravings, stood as a testament to the importance of the figure residing within. With a calm demeanor and a steady heart, Duan Lingtian pushed open the doors, revealing the interior of the residence.
The clan leader's quarters exuded an air of refined elegance, a reflection of the leader's status and authority. Rich tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes of the clan's history and achievements. The furniture was carved with intricate designs, combining aesthetics with functionality. The spacious room was lit by soft, golden-hued lanterns, casting a warm and inviting glow.
In the midst of this opulent setting, Duan Lingtian's father, Duan Jianhua, sat at a grand desk positioned by a large window. The room was suffused with the soft illumination of natural light, which framed his figure as he engaged in his tasks. His expression held a mix of concentration and determination, the furrow of his brows a sign of the weighty responsibilities he carried as clan leader.
As Duan Lingtian entered, his father looked up from his work, his eyes meeting those of his son. "Father," Duan Lingtian greeted respectfully, his voice carrying a blend of warmth and deference. "Tian'er," Duan Jianhua greeted, his voice a gentle rumble that carried both fatherly affection and the weight of his responsibilities as clan leader. He set aside the documents he had been studying and rose from his seat, stepping around the desk to approach his son.
Duan Lingtian returned the greeting with a respectful nod, his eyes conveying his admiration and the deep bond that connected them. With a hint of regret in his tone, Duan Jianhua began, "I apologize, Tian'er, for the engagement. I was too hasty, and I didn't see through her intentions. I'm sorry for unknowingly subjecting you to such a situation."
Duan Lingtian shook his head, his expression both understanding and forgiving. "Father, there's no need to blame yourself. When Li Meiying came to me to break off the engagement, I was the one who agreed without consulting you. It was my decision, and I bear responsibility for it. Please forgive me for my impulsive actions."
Duan Jianhua regarded his son with a mixture of pride and warmth. "Tian'er, your maturity and sense of responsibility continue to impress me. You've faced challenges head-on and made your own choices. As your father, I couldn't be prouder of the man you're becoming."
Duan Lingtian's gaze met his father's, gratitude and respect evident in his eyes. "Thank you, Father. I'm grateful for your understanding and support."
The clan leader asks "so what brings you here for you to come and see me?". The clan leader's question hung in the air, and Duan Lingtian's response carried a hint of mischief as he rubbed his nose and met his father's gaze. "Is there a rule against visiting my father? I just finished cultivating and thought I'd take a little break."
Duan Jianhua's mock anger was met with a playful grin from his son, their interaction reflecting the comfortable rapport they shared. "You little rascal," the clan leader chuckled, his tone indulgent. "Don't think you can fool this old man so easily. But enough of that. How are your preparations going? What level of confidence do you have for the upcoming compete-".
Before the clan leader could finish his question, his words were cut off by the realization of Duan Lingtian's current cultivation level. Shock flickered across his face as he took in the scene before him, and his voice wavered with amazement. "You... you broke through?!"
Duan Lingtian's sheepish smile only confirmed the truth. "Yes, father. Your son was fortunate enough to have another breakthrough."Duan Jianhua's initial shock quickly transformed into a proud, joyful expression. He couldn't contain his happiness as he exclaimed, "Good, good, good! You're truly making me proud, Tian'er. Keep up this progress, and you'll catch up with everyone sooner than you think."
His hand resting on his son's shoulder, the clan leader's touch held a mixture of pride and encouragement. Duan Lingtian's response was respectful and filled with determination. "Yes, father." "Alright get going as you can see I am still very busy" he sends out Lingtian from his room. Duan Lingtian nodded in response to his father's instruction, understanding that the clan leader had his own responsibilities to attend to. "Of course, father. I'll let you get back to your work," he said respectfully before turning to leave the room.
Outside, the atmosphere shifted as he walked through the clan compound. Eyes met his with a mix of emotions, each look telling its own story. Some eyes held scorn, a reflection of his past struggles, while others carried pity, a reminder of the times he was considered a waste. However, among them, he also recognized the glimmers of recognition and respect, signs of his newfound potential and progress.
As he strolled through the clan compound, Duan Lingtian's gaze took in the views and landscape that he had grown up with. The familiar sights brought a sense of belonging, and he couldn't help but appreciate the beauty that surrounded him.
His leisurely walk led him past fellow clan members, some of whom greeted him warmly, and others who averted their gazes or exchanged hushed whispers. Duan Lingtian's thoughts drifted to a saying he had heard before: "The eyes are the window to the soul." He pondered the truth behind those words, realizing that emotions were often conveyed without a single word spoken.
Despite the varied reactions, Duan Lingtian continued his stroll, appreciating the sense of familiarity and camaraderie that the clan offered. It was a place he called home, a place where he was determined to prove his worth and rise above his past.
In the midst of the clan's bustling activity, he found solace in the landscape, reflecting on the journey he had embarked upon. With the upcoming competition, his determination burned brighter than ever, and he knew that every step he took was a step closer to rewriting his story within the duan clan.