As Li Rong and Tian De journeyed toward Jiang Bei , the dense forest enveloped them in a serene ambiance. The rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds provided a soothing background to their conversation.
"So, Tian De, tell me how you came to be part of the Soaring Wind Sect," Li Rong inquired, his curiosity piqued by the mention of Tian De's sect.
"It all started in my small village, nestled in the backwaters of the countryside," Tian De began, a nostalgic smile playing on his lips. "I learned the art of making medicinal concoctions from my grandmother, who was a skilled herbalist. She taught me everything she knew about the healing properties of plants."
Li Rong listened intently, intrigued by Tian De's origins. "And then you encountered your master?" he prompted.
Tian De nodded, his eyes lit up with memory. "Yes, one day while I was collecting herbs in the forest, Pill Master Xue Chao stumbled upon our humble abode. My grandmother pleaded with him to test my abilities, and to our surprise, he was amazed by the natural talent I possessed."
Li Rong nodded, understanding the significance of the encounter. "And so, Pill Master Xue Chao chose to bring you back to the sect with him," he surmised.
Tian De's face lit up with gratitude as he recounted the pivotal moment. "Exactly. It was a turning point in my life. Pill Master Xue Chao saw potential in me that I never knew existed. He became my mentor and guide, encouraging my skills and helping me unlock my true potential."
Li Rong smiled, impressed by Tian De's journey. "Your grandmother must have been proud to see you flourish under Pill Master Xue Chao's tutelage."Tian De's expression softened with fond remembrance. "She was overjoyed. Her dream was to see me become a great cultivator."
Suddenly, Tian De's expression darkened."It's a painful memory," Tian De began, despite Pill Master Xue Chao's initial enthusiasm and belief in my potential. As the years passed, my progress in cultivation began to stagnate."
Tian De nodded, a heavy sigh escaping from his lips. "Yes, exactly. No matter how diligently I practiced the techniques, my progress remained stagnant. Pill Master Xue Chao must have sensed my lack of progress and gradually distanced himself from me, focusing on other disciples who showed more promise."
Li Rong felt a pang of pity for his newfound friend, understanding the frustration of being held back by circumstances beyond one's control. "It must have been difficult to feel abandoned by someone you once looked up to," he remarked softly.
Tian De nodded, a wistful expression crossing his features. "It was a bitter realization, but I came to accept it. Perhaps it was for the best."
Li Rong nodded, absorbing the information. "What cultivation method were you taught?" he probed further.
Tian De hesitated for a moment before replying, "I was given the Cloud Pill manual, a mid-grade cultivation manual specifically tailored for pill-making cultivators."
Li Rong's interest deepened. "May I see the manual?" he asked, intrigued by Tian De's cultivation method.
Tian De hesitated, unsure whether it was appropriate to share his cultivation manual. However, Li Rong's reassuring demeanor encouraged him to relent. He handed over the manual, and Li Rong scrutinized its contents with keen interest.
After perusing the manual, Li Rong's suspicions grew. He proposed an unconventional method to confirm his hunch. "Tian De, would you allow me to inject my spiritual qi into you and examine your meridians? I believe I can provide insight into your cultivation."
Tian De blinked in surprise but ultimately agreed, trusting Li Rong's judgment. Li Rong closed his eyes in concentration, channeling his spiritual qi into Tian De's body. With precise maneuvers, he navigated through Tian De's meridians, analyzing the flow of spiritual energy.
After a thorough examination, Li Rong made a startling revelation. "Tian De, your spirit root is not compatible with the Cloud Pill manual. It requires a water and fire dual spirit root, whereas you possess a natural wood and fire dual spirit root."
Tian De's eyes widened in astonishment. "So, it wasn't my lack of talent but rather a mismatch in cultivation methods," he realized, bringing relief to him.
Li Rong smiled reassuringly. "Indeed. You have great potential, Tian De. With the right cultivation method, you can unlock your true abilities."
Touched by Li Rong's kindness, Tian De expressed his gratitude. "Thank you, Li Rong. I am grateful for your guidance and assistance."