In the Haotian Mirror.
"Why can't I continue cultivating?" Wen Yaxian looked at Xiao Fan in confusion.
"You just can't." Xiao Fan responded helplessly.
He had originally planned to tell Wen Yaxian the truth about the Taiyin Demonic Physique, but Yaxian's mother had sternly reminded him not to. The demonic nature of the Taiyin Demonic Physique would subtly influence its host once they became aware of it, causing them to lose control without even realizing it.
In the past, members of Wen Yaxian's family who had unknowingly inherited the Taiyin Demonic Physique had experienced similar incidents. Therefore, the family had sealed all records regarding the Taiyin Demonic Physique. If it weren't for Yaxian's mother accidentally discovering these records, she wouldn't have known either.
To quell Yaxian's suspicions, Xiao Fan had to lie. He claimed that her unique physique would harm her if she cultivated, potentially leading to her death.
After hearing this, Yaxian frowned deeply. She didn't doubt Xiao Fan's words, as he had no reason to stop her from cultivating otherwise. But she felt a deep sense of frustration and sadness about not being able to cultivate.
If she couldn't cultivate, then there was no hope of curing Xiao Fan's poison.
Seeing Yaxian's sorrowful expression, Xiao Fan understood that her sadness wasn't just about being unable to cultivate, but about losing the last hope of curing him. In her heart, she was willing to sacrifice anything to save him.
"Master, I feel that the blue light in my body isn't harmful. It feels good, not damaging. Could you be wrong?" Yaxian asked again, still puzzled.
Xiao Fan realized he needed a more convincing explanation to dissuade Yaxian from cultivating. He said, "Your unique physique isn't as simple as you think. The blue light might feel good, but it's dangerous. If you continue cultivating, you might not live long enough to cure me."
"Alright." Yaxian nodded silently. If there was no hope of curing Xiao Fan, any sacrifice she made would be meaningless.
From then on, Yaxian never mentioned cultivation again. Although she was deeply disappointed, she continued her life as usual, hoping to make Xiao Fan's remaining time as happy as possible.
One day, while gathering herbs, Yaxian found an injured squirrel. As she held it, a blue light emanated from her hands, healing the squirrel's wound instantly. She was both surprised and delighted by this discovery. She tested this healing power on other injured animals, confirming its efficacy.
Though using this power left her weak and unconscious for a while, she felt it was due to her lack of cultivation experience. Determined to heal Xiao Fan, she began secretly cultivating daily.
When she felt ready, she attempted to heal Xiao Fan's eyes while he slept. The next morning, Xiao Fan woke up to find Yaxian staring at him.
"Did I snore while sleeping?" he asked, puzzled.
Yaxian laughed joyfully, "Master, can't you see me?"
Realizing his sight had returned, Xiao Fan was shocked. "Did you secretly cultivate?" he asked seriously.
Yaxian, still elated from her success, didn't grasp the severity of the situation. "Master, I know you're worried, but I think there's no problem. Maybe you were wrong about my physique."
She then demonstrated the blue light again. Xiao Fan noted her cultivation had reached the Qi Refining stage in less than ten days, which was remarkable. Yet, he sensed no demonic nature in her.
Confused, he sought Yaxian's mother's advice. After hearing his account, she thought for a moment and said, "What I know comes from family records. With our family gone, I can't verify them. Perhaps Yaxian is lucky and didn't inherit the demonic curse."
"I hope so," Xiao Fan replied solemnly.
---
**Chapter 39: Seeking Clarity**
Over the next few days, Wen Yaxian continued to cultivate, despite Xiao Fan's concerns. Her unique ability to heal with the blue light provided hope that perhaps she had inherited the Taiyin Divine Physique rather than the Taiyin Demonic Physique. However, Xiao Fan remained cautious, aware of the potential dangers.
One evening, as Wen Yaxian practiced her cultivation techniques, she felt a surge of power within her. The blue light enveloped her, brighter and more intense than ever before. She could sense the energy flowing through her, purifying her body and enhancing her abilities.
Excited by this newfound strength, Yaxian decided it was time to test the limits of her power. She approached Xiao Fan, who was meditating in the garden.
"Master, I think I can heal you now," she said, her voice filled with determination.
Xiao Fan opened his eyes and looked at her. "Are you sure? The risks are too great."
"I believe in this power," she replied confidently. "I feel it's meant to heal and protect, not harm."
With Xiao Fan's reluctant approval, Yaxian placed her hands on his shoulders, channeling the blue light into his body. The energy flowed smoothly, targeting the poison that had plagued him for so long. To their amazement, the toxins began to dissipate, and Xiao Fan felt a renewed sense of vitality.
As the healing process continued, Yaxian's strength waned. The intense energy drain left her weak, but she persisted, determined to cure Xiao Fan completely. Finally, the last traces of poison vanished, and Xiao Fan's health was restored.
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Xiao Fan embraced Yaxian. "You did it," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "You saved me."
Exhausted but triumphant, Yaxian smiled. "It seems my physique is indeed a blessing, not a curse."
---
**Epilogue: A New Dawn**
With Xiao Fan's health restored, the bond between master and disciple grew stronger. Together, they continued to explore the mysteries of cultivation, unlocking new potentials and facing challenges head-on.
Wen Yaxian's unique abilities became a beacon of hope for their village. She used her healing powers to aid those in need, earning the respect and admiration of her fellow villagers. Xiao Fan, now fully recovered, shared his knowledge and wisdom, guiding Yaxian and the others on their paths to enlightenment.
As they stood together, watching the sunrise over the mountains, Xiao Fan and Wen Yaxian knew that their journey was just beginning. The future held countless possibilities, and with their combined strength and determination, they were ready to face whatever lay ahead.
---
In the present, the Taiyin Empress gazed at the Haotian Mirror, her heart filled with a mix of emotions. The truth about her past, her unique abilities, and the challenges she had overcome had shaped her into the powerful and revered figure she was today. Despite the uncertainties and trials, she had emerged stronger, her divine light shining brighter than ever.
As the crowd watched, the Taiyin Empress stood tall, a symbol of resilience and hope. Her journey had been one of discovery, growth, and redemption. And now, she was ready to lead her people into a new era, guided by the wisdom and strength she had gained along the way.