Battle in the Old Days . . .
Cha Eun Xiao remained silent, deep in thought. After all, nobody truly comprehended the extent of Cha Eun Xiao's vast experience and unwavering composure. He had traversed the realm of mortality, having faced death itself. How could he not be considered an individual of remarkable experience?
A sly grin crossed his lips as he contemplated, "Heh, heh! Don't underestimate me. I acknowledge you've endured trials that few others have, given the journey you undertook to reach this realm. It is indeed an advantage, but it could also serve as your Achilles' heel."
The unexpected insight startled Cha Eun Xiao, who replied with a humble tone, "I am eager to hear more of your wisdom."
The elder continued, "You hail from a lower realm, a place that likely filled you with trepidation upon your arrival. The initial feelings of vulnerability and inadequacy were inescapable. You perceived yourself as inconsequential. Consequently, you harbor a sense of self-contempt. But, as time passed, you managed to convince yourself that your perceived weakness stems from being a foreigner in this realm. You began to recognize your superior experience and training compared to most cultivators here. With time, you have the potential to ascend to greatness."
He paused and then added, "This outlook is an excellent way to interpret your current reality. However, you must also be wary of the arrogance within you. If you allow that arrogance to dictate your actions, it could lead to great accomplishments. Yet, if you fail to harness it properly, it might ultimately be your undoing. What, in your opinion, does the future hold for you?" Yun Piaoliu inquired.
Cha Eun Xiao was taken aback by the profound wisdom and replied sincerely, "I am open to your guidance, Master."
In his response, Cha Eun Xiao's words carried a different weight. His first inquiry was a subtle invitation for more wisdom, while his second response indicated genuine appreciation.
Cha Eun Xiao was keenly aware that the elder's words had struck a chord. Yun Piaoliu remained unaware of Cha Eun Xiao's dual existence, but Cha Eun Xiao himself knew the full extent of his capabilities. In a previous life, he had been the Xiao Monarch in the Qing-Yun Realm, endowed with experience, skill, wisdom, and a profound sense of calm. Becoming peerless in the Land of Han-Yang was a straightforward path for him.
Reflecting on it, he realized that without the fortuitous acquisition of the East-rising Purple Qi, Boundless Space, Brother Egg, and other invaluable opportunities, it might have taken him over half a century to attain his current status. Yet, with these resources at his disposal, he ascended to the Qing-Yun Realm in a mere two years.
Despite his awareness of his true capabilities, Cha Eun Xiao understood the importance of maintaining a low profile in the Qing-Yun Realm, owing to his relative weakness in this world. However, deep down, he remained a man of unshakable confidence.
The three elderly figures had shared insights that genuinely resonated with Cha Eun Xiao, prompting a profound shift in his perspective.
Lei Dadi wore a wry smile as he confided, "We may appear formidable in the eyes of Yue Changtian, seemingly in control, but the truth is far from that. Were it not for these three humble cottages, we would have perished five decades ago."
With a nod, he invited Cha Eun Xiao into one of the cottages.
Lei Dadi then commented, "You've been imparted with much wisdom today, my young friend. Now, it's my turn. Remember this, Chongxiao, my disciple, a modest abode can provide shelter, while a grand mansion can stifle one's aspirations."
Cha Eun Xiao halted in his tracks, aghast at the profundity of the statement. He mulled over those words repeatedly, sensing the layers of wisdom concealed within.
Lei Dadi, now wearing a more somber expression, remarked, "We are men who crawled out from these cottages. In a few years, we shall return to these humble dwellings."
Confused but eager to grasp the essence of their teachings, Cha Eun Xiao admitted, "Three masters, I'm still trying to fully comprehend your words. I grasp the surface, but the deeper meaning eludes me."
Feng Wuying interjected with a knowing smile, "It's not necessary to understand it all at once. We have high hopes for you."
With genuine humility, Cha Eun Xiao responded, "Your guidance is deeply appreciated."
Once again, Cha Eun Xiao's words held different shades of meaning. The wisdom imparted by the three elders had left a profound impact, earning them his utmost respect.
The three venerable elders were eternally aged, their years surpassing the sum of Cha Eun Xiao's existence.
Lei Dadi, with a hint of sorrow in his eyes, spoke of Dian Changkong's demise in the hands of Wu Fa. "It struck us like lightning, the news of Dian Changkong's death," he began. "It was as if the heavens had delivered a devastating blow to our very souls. In the wake of this tragedy, we made a momentous decision to descend from our secluded mountain abode and confront Wu Fa. We yearned to avenge our fallen brother."
In solemn agreement, Cha Eun Xiao nodded. He had been privy to their intentions. The Thunder, Wind, and Cloud, three formidable martial figures, had united and departed from their mountain sanctuary, causing ripples throughout the martial world. Their written challenge had reverberated through the years, a testament to their unwavering resolve.
"The martial world acknowledges no concepts of right or wrong," Cha Eun Xiao mused, recalling their declaration. "Life and death are determined by the blade, and justice is synonymous with strength. In this realm, one must repay a favor manifold, and vengeance must be wrought to quell grudges. Wu Fa, you have taken our brother from us, leaving an indelible scar upon our souls. An eye for an eye, a life for a life. We await your presence on the summit of Thousands Troop Mountain, on the fifth of September, for a decisive confrontation."
It was this bold challenge, this letter, that had set the wheels of destiny in motion. The martial code dictated their actions. They did not seek explanations for the motives behind Wu Fa's actions, nor did they delve into the intricacies of who was in the right. In their hearts, reasons held no significance.
Their perspective was clear and unwavering. Dian Changkong was gone, a victim of Wu Fa's hand. That was the undeniable truth. Their objective was singular: to avenge their fallen comrade. In their eyes, the outcome of the forthcoming battle would determine justice. If they perished in combat, Wu Fa would be vindicated. If Wu Fa met his end, their cause would be deemed righteous. And should they emerge victorious, Dian Changkong would be avenged for his disciple's fate.
It was as straightforward as martial world principles came. In such a realm, the victor wrote the history, and on the fifth of September, Thousands Troop Mountain stood witness to the gathering multitudes, all assembled to witness the impending confrontation.