Dark Pine Forest . . .
Every day, at every moment, whether on the road, during meals, at rest, or in the quiet of the night, Xiao Mufei would gather a group of his disciples to engage in a shared discussion with Cha Eun Xiao. They would form a circle and converse on various topics, spanning martial affairs, gossip, love stories, tales of vengeance, and peculiar anecdotes. These exchanges resembled a collective dialogue in which they imparted their wisdom and insights.
Xiao Mufei seemed to be eager to pass down his life's knowledge to Cha Eun Xiao, and the words he spoke often prompted his disciples to ponder deeply. Others would chime in with their opinions and seek Cha Eun Xiao's perspective. He didn't aim to display his knowledge or talents; indeed, he found it somewhat tedious. What he genuinely believed often had the opposite effect and made his companions slightly hostile towards him.
Nevertheless, his experiences were vast and rich. Regardless of what Xiao Mufei shared, Cha Eun Xiao could discern the essence of the discussion and respond succinctly. This consistently impressed Xiao Mufei.
After each session, Xiao Mufei would feel even more satisfied with Cha Eun Xiao's presence. He would often ponder whether Cha Eun Xiao was truly absorbing and learning from their discussions.
The truth was that Cha Eun Xiao didn't acquire any new knowledge from these conversations. He already possessed the answers, and his attempts to avoid providing overly earnest responses only resulted in his answers being more appreciated. This led to consistent praise from Xiao Mufei.
However, Cha Eun Xiao didn't truly learn anything new; he merely reiterated what he already knew. He contemplated Xiao Mufei and his motivations, understanding that the man's kindness was not borne of benevolence but rather a desire for Cha Eun Xiao to join his sect. Xiao Mufei appeared to be a "sect fanatic," someone wholly dedicated to his sect and its interests. Everything, including his life, revolved around the well-being of Cold Moon Palace.
Cha Eun Xiao couldn't help but ponder the kind of upbringing that could mold someone into such a loyal disciple. This allegiance to the sect was almost fanatical.
While Cha Eun Xiao was treated exceptionally well, some of the younger disciples began to experience feelings of jealousy and annoyance when they observed this special treatment. However, over time, as they listened to Cha Eun Xiao's insights and saw the profound wisdom he possessed, their perception began to change. They no longer viewed him with disdain but regarded him as a brother. Eventually, they started to admire him. Thus, their attitude toward Cha Eun Xiao gradually shifted.
Cha Eun Xiao noticed this transformation and had mixed feelings about it. He couldn't forget the animosity of these individuals who were part of the group responsible for his brother's death and his banishment from the realm. These disciples of the three factions were no doubt ruthless, but they also exhibited another side.
In Qing-Yun Realm, might made right, and those who refrained from killing would inevitably become victims themselves. Survival in this world required ruthless resolve, and it became clear that not only Cold Moon Palace disciples were capable of such actions.
One afternoon, the group ascended a hill and Xiao Mufei signaled for them to halt their journey.
Cha Eun Xiao strained his eyes to discern what had caught Xiao Mufei's attention. Before them lay a vast expanse of dark pine trees, a dense forest looming only about a hundred meters away. They stood atop the highest point in the vicinity, gazing out at the seemingly endless sea of pines.
"We're on the cusp of entering the Dark Pine Forest, a treacherous expanse spanning seven thousand miles," Xiao Mufei declared with an air of gravitas. His tone betrayed a hint of fear. "It's the most perilous segment of our journey home."
He looked around at his assembled disciples, who had assumed an upright posture, gathering at this pivotal juncture. Those who had been leading the way rejoined the group, their expressions serious.
"Before we venture into that forest, there's something I need to emphasize," Xiao Mufei announced. His countenance was a mix of gloominess and determination, underscored by an innate nobility.
He posed a question to his disciples, and Cha Eun Xiao eagerly awaited the response.
"What holds the utmost importance in our lives?" Xiao Mufei's voice rang out, resolute and commanding.
At that moment, Cha Eun Xiao and the others anticipated the answer.
"The sect!" they replied in unison, right fists pressed to their chests. Their solemn expressions revealed the depth of their commitment. "In the vast cosmos, our loyalty belongs solely to our sect! In this unforgiving world, our hearts are unwaveringly devoted to our sect."
"Without our sect, we are nothing more than desiccated bones. With our sect, we can shake the very foundations of the world."
Satisfied with their response, Xiao Mufei continued, "And what should we do when the sect requires our sacrifice?"
"We shall shed our blood for the sect! We shall sacrifice all for the sect! We shall meet our demise with honor for the sake of the sect!" they shouted in unison.
Xiao Mufei inhaled deeply and expressed his resolve, "As you all know, Cha Chongxiao consumed the inner core of the Golden-scaled Dragon Fish. His future is exceptionally promising. By successfully returning him to the sect, we can significantly bolster its standing."
"However, the other sects will stop at nothing to thwart us. They will employ every means to eliminate Cha Chongxiao and obliterate the opportunity we hold."
"That's why the forest will be teeming with snares and conflict. We will enter a battle—a battle that will play out within the seven thousand miles of the Dark Pine Forest."
He spoke with a hoarse voice and fervor, "I have just one request."
"Master, fret not!" Fang Dalong cried out, raising his arms in a vow. "We won't let harm befall Brother Cha. We're ready to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect him!"