The sect building process began, with Wang Shin guiding me through the intricate rituals and preparations. But as the days passed, I grew increasingly concerned. Despite my efforts, no one came to join our sect.
I stood in the empty halls, my voice echoing off the walls as I called out to the world. "Join me, and together we shall forge a new path! Let us create a sect that will shake the very foundations of this world!"
But my words fell on deaf ears. The silence was deafening, and I couldn't help but wonder if I had made a grave mistake.
Wang Shin appeared beside me, his eyes filled with a deep understanding. "Patience, young one," he said. "The right individuals will come, but only when the time is right."
I nodded, but my doubts lingered. Had I misinterpreted the prophecy? Was I truly meant to create this sect, or was it all just a foolish dream?
As the days turned into weeks, the silence grew thicker, until I could feel it pressing down upon me like a physical weight. And still, no one came.
But I refused to give up. I would see this through, no matter the cost. For I was Lin Fang, the Worldly Demon, and I would not be defeated by something as trivial as doubt.
As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, I stood at the edge of my sect, gazing out at the breathtaking scenery. The sky was painted with hues of orange and pink, a fiery glow that seemed to dance across the clouds. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the gentle rustle of leaves in the evening breeze.
My sect, though small, stood out amidst the rolling hills and verdant forests. The 30,000 square feet of land was meticulously crafted, with intricate stone carvings and delicate architecture. But despite its beauty, I couldn't shake off the feeling of emptiness. Where were the followers? The disciples?
Just as I was lost in thought, a figure appeared at the gate. I walked towards them, curiosity piqued. As I opened the gate, I was taken aback by the man's appearance. He was short, only 5.4 feet tall, and his round face was accentuated by a prominent belly. But there was something about him that seemed...different.
"Who are you?" I asked, trying to hide my surprise.
"My name is Jang Ran," he replied, his voice deep and resonant.
I raised an eyebrow. "What brings you here?"
Jang Ran's eyes sparkled with determination. "I want to join your sect."
I was taken aback. No one had shown interest in joining me yet. But something about Jang Ran's demeanor put me at ease.
"Welcome," I said, handing him papers made from sheepskin. "Write your name and pledge your loyalty."
Jang Ran took the papers, his hands moving with a speed and dexterity that belied his appearance. He handed them back to me, a small smile playing on his lips.
Jang Ran was the first step towards building my sect. And I would not let him go.
I smiled, trying to hide the surprise at Jang Ran's youthful energy. "From tomorrow, we will start your training," I said, trying to sound wise beyond my years.
Jang Ran nodded, his eyes shining with excitement, before bidding me farewell and departing.
As I watched him leave, I couldn't help but think, "Every pawn is important, and I will make him as strong as possible."
The night sky was ablaze with stars, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I recalled the words of Buddha, "The mind is everything; what you think, you become."
But as I pondered this, a question arose in my mind, "In a world where morals are fleeting, and power is the ultimate goal, can true strength be achieved without sacrificing one's values?"
I stood there, lost in thought, as the stars twinkled above, their silence a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within me.
The quote of Buddha echoed in my mind, a reminder that the journey ahead would be fraught with challenges, not just for Jang Ran, but for me as well. Could I remain true to myself, or would the
lure of power corrupt me? Only time would tell.