The morning light broke over the village of Qiyun, casting long shadows as I prepared for my journey. My heart was a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The forge, where I had spent countless hours honing my skills, now seemed like a distant memory as I packed my belongings. My new life had begun in this village, but it was time to move forward and seek the knowledge and power that only a sect could provide.
Master Li stood by, his wise eyes watching my every move. "Remember, Tyr," he said, his voice steady, "the journey will have challenges. It is not just about finding a place to train; it's about proving your worth to become part of that family. The world outside our village is vast and often unforgiving."
I nodded, securing my pack. "Thank you, Master Li, for everything. I will make you proud."
He smiled, placing a hand on my shoulder. "I have no doubt you will. Go with the blessings of Qiyun."
With a final look at the village, I set off, the path ahead unknown but full of promise.
My journey began with sparse information. The villagers of Qiyun, though kind and supportive, knew little about the distant sects. They offered vague directions and tales passed down through generations. My first stop was a nearby market town, bustling with traders and travelers. I hoped to gather more concrete leads there.
In the market town, I mingled with merchants, listened to rumors, and visited taverns where adventurers shared their stories. I learned of several sects, each with its own unique strengths and requirements. The Sect. Everfost was mentioned frequently, renowned for its rigorous training and powerful cultivators. However, finding its exact location proved challenging. The sect was said to be hidden, accessible only to those deemed worthy. Even if you get in, there is also a large tournment to pass to be able to join
Through careful questioning, I pieced together a potential route. The sect was rumored to be in the north, beyond the great plains and through treacherous mountain passes. A city called Vorfrost, surrounded by hazardous ice and snow, was often mentioned as a landmark close to the sect. It was known for its warmth and peace inside its walls, a stark contrast to the perilous environment outside.
The journey through the plains was arduous but manageable. I traveled by foot, stopping occasionally at small villages and outposts to rest and resupply. The landscape gradually changed from rolling fields to rugged hills, the air growing colder as I moved north. The terrain became more challenging, with rocky paths and steep inclines.
After several weeks, I reached the foothills of the northern mountains. The weather had turned harsh, with biting winds and swirling snow. The path ahead was treacherous, but I pressed on, determined to reach Vorfrost. The stories of the city had painted a picture of a haven, a place of warmth and safety amidst the icy wilderness.
The mountain pass was a test of endurance and resolve. The wind howled through the narrow valleys, and visibility was often reduced to mere feet. I wrapped myself in my cloak, trudging through the snow with deliberate steps. Each day was a battle against the elements, but I refused to turn back.
On the seventh day in the mountains, I finally saw it—Vorfrost. The city's walls loomed ahead, massive and imposing but also inviting. A soft, warm glow emanated from within, promising refuge from the relentless cold. I approached the gates, which were guarded by stern-faced sentinels clad in thick furs and armor.
"Halt," one of the guards commanded, his breath visible in the frigid air. "State your business."
"I seek entry to the city," I replied, my voice steady despite my exhaustion. "I've traveled far and seek knowledge and training at a nearby sect."
The guards exchanged glances, then nodded. "Welcome to Vorfrost; the fee is 5 silver. Enter and find warmth."
reluctantly, I paid, considering that was my entire savings and this was clear extortion, but what can you do when a 7-foot-tall guard tells you to pay?
As I stepped through the gates, I was greeted by a wave of warmth. The city was a marvel of ingenuity and magic, its streets lined with enchanted lanterns that emitted heat. The buildings were constructed from sturdy stone, and their interiors heated by geothermal energy channeled from deep within the earth. The contrast between the outside world and the city was stark and comforting.
Vorfrost was a bustling hub of activity, its streets filled with traders, artisans, and cultivators. Market stalls offered exotic goods and rare ingredients, while workshops rang with the sounds of smiths and craftsmen at work. The city was a melting pot of cultures and talents, each contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.
I spent my first day in Vorfrost exploring its many districts. The central market was a hive of commerce, where merchants hawked their wares and buyers haggled for the best prices. The air was filled with the scents of spices, roasted meats, and freshly baked bread. I wandered through the market, marveling at the variety of goods and the diversity of the people.
In the artisan quarter, I found blacksmiths forging weapons and armor, their forges glowing with intense heat. Jewelers crafted intricate pieces, their hands moving with precision and skill. I felt a sense of connection to these craftsmen, their dedication to their art mirroring my own.
My goal, however, was to find the Sect of the Rising Sun. I visited the city's libraries and archives, seeking any information that might lead me to the sect. The librarians were helpful, guiding me to ancient texts and maps that hinted at the sect's location. I also spoke with seasoned adventurers and cultivators, hoping to glean more specific directions.
One evening, while dining at a local tavern, I overheard a conversation between two old men. They spoke of a hidden path that led from Vorfrost to a secluded valley where the Sect of the Rising Sun was said to be located. My heart raced as I listened, and I approached them after they had finished their meal.
"Excuse me," I said politely, "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. Could you tell me more about the path to the Sect of the Rising Sun?"
The men looked at each other, then back at me. "It's a dangerous journey," one of them warned. "The path is treacherous, and the sect only accepts those who prove their worth."
"I understand," I replied. "But I am determined to find it."
After a moment of silence, they nodded and provided me with detailed directions. The path was indeed perilous, winding through narrow gorges and across frozen rivers. But I was prepared to face these challenges.
With renewed determination, I set out from Vorfrost the next morning. The path described by the old men was as treacherous as they had warned. The narrow gorges were filled with sharp rocks, and the frozen rivers were slippery and unstable. I moved cautiously, my senses alert to any signs of danger.
The journey tested my physical and mental limits. The cold was relentless, seeping through my clothes and chilling me to the bone. But I pressed on, driven by the knowledge that each step brought me closer to my goal.
After several days of arduous travel, I finally reached the secluded valley. The entrance was marked by ancient stone pillars inscribed with symbols that glowed faintly in the dim light. I felt a surge of excitement and relief as I passed between them, entering the valley that was home to the Sect of the Rising Sun.
The Sect of the Rising Sun
The sect's compound was nestled in the heart of the valley, surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forest. The buildings were constructed from the same sturdy stone as those in Vorfrost, with their roofs covered in a layer of snow. The air was thick with the energy of cultivation and a palpable sense of power and discipline.
I approached the main gate, where a group of disciples stood guard. They wore robes of deep red and gold, the colors of the rising sun, and their expressions were calm and focused.
"I seek entry to the Sect of the Rising Sun," I said, bowing respectfully. "I wish to learn and train under its guidance."
The disciples examined me for a moment, then nodded. "Many seek entry," one of them said. "But only those who prove their worth may join. The admission tournament begins tomorrow. If you wish to join, you must compete."
I nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "I understand. I am ready."
"by the way," the decimal asked
"Why didn't you take the tunnel in the admissions office? It takes 30 minutes from there; ah, never mind, just follow me."
You would think I was a fire cultivator with how red my face turned. I keep being told how hard places are to find, and I'm starting to think people just like to screw with my ignorance of this world.
As I was led inside, I felt a sense of awe and anticipation. The journey had been long and difficult, but I had finally reached my destination. The Sect of the Rising Sun was a place of great power and knowledge, and I was determined to prove myself worthy of its teachings.
The path ahead was filled with challenges, but I was ready to face them. With the support of Master Li, I knew I could overcome any obstacle. My journey in this world of cultivation had only just begun, and I was eager to see where it would lead me next. And hopefully not look like a fool in the long run.