Qingyun Village is surrounded by lush mountains and clear streams, an idyllic place where villagers have lived peacefully for generations. Lin Yun, a boy born with "wasted veins," lives a mundane yet unsatisfied life in this small village.
In the morning, sunlight filtered through the dense leaves, casting dappled shadows on the stone-paved paths. Villagers were already busy with their daily chores, the crowing of roosters, barking of dogs, and children's laughter intertwining to create a vibrant rural scene. Lin Yun emerged from his humble abode, embracing the fresh morning breeze and the essence of nature.
He stood at the village entrance, gazing at the distant, rolling mountains, filled with a yearning and dissatisfaction. He knew his body, deemed useless due to the wasted veins, would never allow him to cultivate like others. Yet, he never abandoned his dreams. He often pondered why he had such a body and whether there was an unknown power waiting to be discovered.
As he walked through the village paths, he overheard some villagers gossiping.
"There's Lin Yun again, this useless boy should just stick to farming instead of daydreaming," a middle-aged man remarked, shaking his head.
"Yeah, his wasted veins are a joke in our village," another woman chimed in.
Lin Yun heard their words, feeling a slight pang but remained silent. He was used to such ridicule, which only fueled a stronger resolve within him. He knew he couldn't bow to these taunts; he had to train hard to become stronger. Deep down, he felt a force urging him forward, a longing for the unknown and a rebellion against fate.
Lin Yun headed to the bamboo forest behind the village, found a secluded spot, and began his training. Although he couldn't cultivate, his daily physical training had become a crucial part of his life. As he did push-ups, he reflected on his future.
"One day, I'll prove that I'm not useless," he silently vowed to himself.
The bamboo leaves rustled in the breeze, as if cheering him on. Sweat began to bead on Lin Yun's forehead, but he didn't pause. Each training session was a test of his limits. Despite his barely detectable spiritual energy, he believed that someday he would find a way to change his fate.
After finishing his training, Lin Yun sat down, gazing at the mysterious ancient cave not far away. The cave had always intrigued him, with the village teeming with legends about it. Some said it housed ancient treasures, while others claimed it was the burial site of powerful warriors.
Curiosity flared within Lin Yun. He decided that one day he would explore this mysterious place, hoping it held the key to his destiny.
As the sun set, the village gradually quieted down. Lin Yun stood at the entrance, watching the smoke rise from the chimneys, feeling a warm glow in his heart. Despite the ridicule, this was the place where he grew up, a place he held dear.
"I must become stronger to protect this land and its people," Lin Yun silently vowed, driven by a sense of belonging and a promise to his family. His mother had once told him, no matter how others treated him, he should always uphold kindness, for only the kind-hearted could attain true power.
But Lin Yun knew that mere kindness wouldn't suffice in this harsh world. He resolved to find a balance between protecting his village and pursuing power.
Night fell, the stars dotting the sky, and the village echoed with the sounds of frogs. Lin Yun returned to his small house, lying in bed, replaying the day's events in his mind. Clenching his fists, his determination grew stronger.
At the other end of the village, a mysterious elder named Ling Feng watched quietly. A hint of admiration flickered in his eyes, fully aware of Lin Yun's potential.
"This child possesses extraordinary perseverance and character," Ling Feng murmured, "Perhaps it's time to guide him."
As the night deepened, the village fell into silence. Little did Lin Yun know, a life-changing encounter was drawing near.