The journey to the Azure Dragon Echoing Caves was a test of patience and endurance for the disciples of the Clark Sect. As the massive Blossomback Elk, guided by the enigmatic old man, continued its steady flight across the sky, the disciples grappled with a maelstrom of emotions.
The monotony of the journey sparked irritation in some, while others felt the gnawing anxiety brought on by the occasional skirmishes with airborne predators. Despite these challenges, the old man maneuvered the Elk with a deft hand, each encounter with the flying beasts ending swiftly under his expert guidance.
By the end of the second day, the Elk finally descended, landing on a spacious clearing at the edge of a dense forest. The area was tranquil, a welcome contrast to the constant motion of the past two days. The disciples disembarked, relief evident in their weary movements. Most sought the comfort of sleep on the Elk's expansive wings, while others, driven by hunger, gathered around makeshift fires to prepare a hot meal.
As there are other servants attending the Royal Heirs, Eric chose to stay away for now.
Amidst this bustling scene, Eric found a quiet corner away from the others. He ignited a fire under the furnace, stoking it to a high temperature with practiced ease. The orange glow of the flames cast dancing shadows around him as he began to prepare a meal. From the spirit ring gifted by Princess Lanner, he retrieved a piece of stored meat, skillfully placing it over the fire.
As the meat sizzled and crackled, Eric meticulously added spices and ingredients, each one enhancing the aroma that began to waft through the air. His movements were methodical, a calming ritual in the midst of the journey's chaos.
Unnoticed, the old skinny man who had been guiding the Elk approached Eric and sat beside him silently. The fire's glow reflected off his wrinkled face, revealing a thoughtful expression.
"I never thought I would like seeing a masked guardian sun," the old man commented, his gaze fixed on the flickering flames.
Eric continued his cooking, responding without looking up. "Even if it is masked, the guardian sun won't change. Everything is temporary…" He paused before respectfully adding, "...respected venerable."
The old man chuckled softly, a sound that held both wisdom and amusement. "For others, those words might mean something else. But I will wait until the day the guardian Sun shines on this land," he said, accepting a stick of cooked meat from Eric.
"You won't be disappointed, respected venerable," Eric replied, his voice steady. "The guardian sun will definitely remember you when the time comes." His words were veiled, carrying a depth of meaning understood only by those privy to his true identity.
The old man nodded, savoring the meat with an appreciative hum. "I look forward to that day," he murmured.
As they sat in silence, the fire crackling before them, a bond of unspoken understanding formed between the old man and Eric. Around them, the night deepened, the stars shining brightly overhead, bearing witness to the promises and revelations shared in the quiet of the forest clearing.
In the tranquil embrace of the night, with the stars overhead as silent witnesses, Eric, carrying two carefully hidden meat sticks, made his way towards the head of the Blossomback Elk. The giant creature, a magnificent blend of flora and fauna, was contentedly chewing on dry herbs, seemingly at peace under the moonlit sky.
As Eric approached, he noticed a familiar figure waiting near the Elk's head, away from the others. It was Ria, her presence a comforting sight amidst the uncertainty of their journey. Handing her one of the meat sticks with a warm smile, Eric began to gently rub the Elk's head, eliciting a pleased response from the creature.
"The Elk seems to enjoy your touch as if it's found an old friend," Ria observed, biting into the meat stick with a look of contentment.
Eric chuckled softly, his hand continuing its gentle strokes on the Elk's head. "It's a long story. The old man raiding this Elk, he knows me from a time long past."
Ria's eyes sparkled with curiosity in the dim light. "Is there any trouble?" she asked between bites, her tone laced with concern.
"No trouble," Eric assured her, his gaze distant as he recalled memories from another life. "He's just an old man who once received my help. During a competition in the Seventh Realm cult's grounds, I found this Elk suffering from internal bleeding. I spent a day healing it, which caused me to miss a match and end up in the loser's arena."
Ria listened, her expression a mix of surprise and admiration. "So that's why this old fellow seems so happy with your touch," she said, chuckling softly.
Eric smiled, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "Don't call it old. It gets offended," he joked, reaching into his spirit pearl to retrieve a rare fruit. With a flourish, he tossed it into the Elk's open mouth while continuing to rub its head. The Elk responded with a contented churning sound, clearly enjoying the attention and the treat.
Ria watched the interaction, a sense of warmth filling her heart. "You have a way with creatures, Eric. It's like you understand them beyond words."
Eric paused, his gaze fixed on the Elk. "In the cultivation world, every living being has its own story, its own spirit. Sometimes, all it takes is a moment of kindness to connect with them."
The Elk let out a soft sound, almost like a purr, basking in Eric's touch.
"By the way, take some rest. You are cultivating since the start of the journey." Eric said while looking at Ria's tired face.
Ria nodded as she placed her hand on the Elk's head, rubbing it gently.
"Wait... how did the old man recognised you in the first place? Your face also covered under the mask." Ria asked in a surprised tone as sudden realisation hit her mind.
"Because I let him recognise me. Other's look for faces. But no one can hide the truth from eyes. Don't worry, others won't even have a chance." Eric said in a assured tone as he patted on her hand.
_
Note: Don't forget to vote the Power Stones... TQ for reading...
Your's lovingly,
PETERPAN