The Best Bad Friend . . .
Li Wuliang's emotions welled up, evoking a deep sense of grief and disbelief. His words carried an undertone of incredulity as he shared his experience with Cha Eun Xiao.
He lamented, "Can you fathom what's truly unfathomable? The energy contained within that blood ganoderma is staggering—entirely concealed within my body. I never imagined the sheer magnitude of its power. I had thought it would bestow me with blessings of vitality and restoration."
"However," he continued, his voice tinged with desolation, "each time I began to engage in my cultivation, rejuvenating my body and healing my wounds, a warm current of energy would course through me. At first, this infusion of energy would bolster my recovery, rapidly mending my injuries. But before I could bask in the satisfaction of this healing, another energy stream would surge forth, renewing the assault on my freshly healed wounds. To put it succinctly, these two contrasting energies tormented me mercilessly. Can you comprehend the depth of my torment?"
Cha Eun Xiao, his eyes wide with disbelief, pondered the extraordinary account. He mused to himself, "Is this even plausible?"
But after a moment's reflection, he pieced it together, finding a parallel with his own experiences. Over the centuries, countless formidable individuals had left their imprints and soul power in this unique place. It was almost certain that those affiliated with the demon faction had left a more substantial mark.
"I suppose," Cha Eun Xiao remarked, "it would have been far more favorable if only one of the energies acted as both the healer and the assailant. After all, no matter how powerful the ganoderma's energy, it would eventually be depleted. The key would be to endure until that day arrived. These two conflicting forces, however, pose an entirely different challenge. I can't help but wonder how you've coped with it."
Li Wuliang, visibly irritated, interjected, "That's precisely where the real tragedy lies. If it merely hurt me while simultaneously aiding my recovery, I might have endured the ordeal until the energies were depleted. However, the torment extended beyond the physical. Whenever I embarked on my cultivation, as I activated my martial arts, an incessant voice reverberated within my psyche, insisting, 'You're doing it wrong... Your approach is flawed.'"
Li Wuliang's anger was palpable as he continued, "I've dedicated my life to cultivation and have already reached the pinnacle of the ninth level of the Dao Origin Stage. How could I possibly be mistaken in my cultivation methods? It's sheer nonsense. Yet, that voice persists in my mind, injecting doubt into my very soul. It's akin to a hypnotic suggestion, repeatedly convincing me that everything I've ever known about cultivation is fundamentally erroneous. I recognize it as a falsehood, but its relentless repetition can't help but affect me. Sometimes, I even consider its words true and become consumed by fear."
With a heavy sigh, he concluded, "I've been stranded here for an extended duration and have barely been able to cultivate. I've only achieved a meager level six of the Dream Origin Stage, a testament to the debilitating effects of this experience. To add to the misery, I've recently noticed something even more disheartening. These two energies within me—both the healer and the tormentor—have now become inseparable. At times, my body undergoes healing, while at other times, the tormentor engulfs me, preventing me from engaging in meaningful cultivation. My life... What a miserable existence."
Cha Eun Xiao listened intently, absorbing the full extent of his friend's tribulations. He couldn't help but feel a profound sympathy for Li Wuliang, who had endured such a surreal ordeal. He recognized the uniqueness of this experience.
Li Wuliang's attention then shifted, and he inquired about Cha Eun Xiao's own circumstances. His demeanor was one of curiosity and humor as he probed, "And now, let's talk about you. Why do you look so youthful? You were supposed to be a venerable ancient. How did you end up with such a youthful body? Are you aspiring to become a gigolo, perhaps? In pursuit of an easier life?"
Cha Eun Xiao, visibly exasperated, retorted, "You utter scoundrel! Do you have no shame? You're to blame for my current situation! How could you let me undergo this wretched transformation?"
He couldn't resist the urge to mockingly proclaim, "In any case, I'll have you know that I've become a dashing young man, not some wretched gigolo."
Li Wuliang, utterly bewildered, couldn't help but let out a hearty laugh. "Blame me? You actually embarked on this mission to exact revenge on my behalf?"
He seemed both astonished and grateful as he continued, "Knowing you and knowing me, I can't deny that you would have sought vengeance on my behalf."
Li Wuliang couldn't hide his astonishment, adding with a smile, "But what truly astonishes me is that you, the legendary Xiao Monarch, an embodiment of heroism, actually met your match and perished. To look at you now... Well, you are truly impressive. You look much better than you did before. And Dream Origin Stage, I see. You've advanced with astonishing speed."
Cha Eun Xiao responded in a peculiar manner, his voice carrying a hint of irony. "So what if my face has changed? Xiao Monarch may have met his end, but I left an indelible mark on the Three Factions! If we're counting victories, I surpassed the notorious Fierce Blade, didn't I? After all, Xiao Monarch was significantly mightier than Fierce Blade. Moreover, I remained in the martial world for several months more than you did. Even if it was just for one more minute, I'm still superior to you, am I not? Admit it, Fierce Blade got thrashed rather quickly. A level nine Dao Origin Stage super cultivator, pummeled and thrown off a cliff… Astounding! Level six of the Dream Origin Stage? That's an impressive feat! I'm genuinely fearful now..."
This exchange was quintessential of their dynamic. On the first day of their reunion, they wasted no time in playfully taunting each other.
After partaking in some light-hearted banter, they exchanged amused glances and burst into laughter. This was their first face-to-face interaction in an incredibly long time.
To meet and converse in such a casual and joyous manner was a gift they cherished deeply.
It was challenging to encapsulate the emotions coursing through their hearts. Cha Eun Xiao marveled at the privilege of being the sole recipient of Li Wuliang's unique brand of camaraderie.
"In this world, there is but one individual who can speak to me in this manner," Cha Eun Xiao mused. "He's the only one who can make this world feel complete. At this moment, being in each other's presence is everything."
In a past life, Cha Eun Xiao and Li Wuliang had clashed numerous times. Each skirmish appeared to tip in Cha Eun Xiao's favor, yet Li Wuliang consistently possessed the potential for a turnaround victory.
But in their current moment, as they bantered back and forth, their strength was evenly matched. Occasionally, Li Wuliang even outshone Cha Eun Xiao, taking particular delight in winning their verbal jousts. Cha Eun Xiao grinned at this thought.
"But tell me," Li Wuliang inquired with seriousness, "you engaged in a Walk-in, correct? I presume that means you've forsaken practicing pure yang martial arts."
Cha Eun Xiao felt a moment of discomfort. It was indeed true—pure yang martial arts were inherently savage and inhumane.
Li Wuliang never hesitated to needle him about such matters. The longstanding familiarity between the two allowed for unbridled teasing.
"Certainly not!" Cha Eun Xiao replied sternly.
"Excellent! I was only concerned that a stunning beauty like her would go to waste. I'm speaking of her, not you," Li Wuliang chortled, hinting at the allure of the martial art.