After days of traveling and hunting beasts to sharpen his skills, Lin Tian finally arrived at his sect. The familiar towering gates and serene landscape brought a sense of relief, yet a determined fire burned in his heart. His recent encounter with the bandit leader and the struggles he faced replayed in his mind, filling him with a mixture of pride and realization of the challenges ahead.
As he entered, several disciples took note of him, some nodding in acknowledgment while others whispered, sensing something had changed in him. His aura was no longer that of a mere Body Refining cultivator; his Qi Refining level was now apparent, and it caught the attention of those around.
Lin Tian headed straight to the Outer Hall, where the sect's deacons often resided. He needed to report the difficulty of the mission, as the bandit leader and his men were far beyond what a beginner Qi Refining cultivator could handle alone. Stepping into the Outer Hall, he saw the familiar face of Deacon Wu, a stern-looking man with sharp eyes, who was known for his fairness and dedication.
Deacon Wu looked up as Lin Tian approached, his expression unreadable. "Lin Tian, back already? And I sense you've made a breakthrough," he remarked, his voice carrying a slight edge of surprise.
Lin Tian offered a respectful bow. "Yes, Deacon Wu. I've returned with important findings. The mission involving the bandit group was far more challenging than anticipated. Their leader wields techniques that seem demonic in nature and possesses strength close to Qi Refining level 3. For a new Qi Refining disciple, it's not an ordinary task."
Deacon Wu nodded thoughtfully, absorbing Lin Tian's words. "Demonic techniques, you say? That is troubling. This information is valuable, Lin Tian. Though you didn't defeat the leader, you've provided critical intelligence."
Deacon Wu reached into his robes and produced a small pouch. "Take this as a reward for your efforts. The sect values diligence, and this will aid you in your future cultivation," he said, handing Lin Tian a pouch filled with several low-grade spirit stones.
"Thank you, Deacon Wu," Lin Tian said, grateful for the acknowledgment and resources.
However, their conversation hadn't gone unnoticed. Standing nearby, observing the entire interaction with a smirk, was a tall figure draped in elaborate robes—a core disciple named Shen Liang. Shen Liang was known throughout the sect for his insidious and ruthless nature. At the high ranks of the Spirit Condensation Realm, he commanded respect and fear alike.
With a leisurely gait, Shen Liang approached, his eyes scanning Lin Tian with a glint of amusement. "So, this is the Lin Tian everyone's been whispering about," he said, his tone dripping with condescension. "I hear you managed to survive an encounter with some notorious bandits. Impressive for a low-level Qi Refining disciple."
Lin Tian inclined his head politely. "Senior Shen Liang, I simply did my duty and returned with what I could find."
Shen Liang chuckled, clearly entertained by Lin Tian's calm demeanor. "Such humility! You know, Lin Tian, I could use someone like you by my side. A loyal subordinate. Join me, and I'll ensure your growth in this sect will be smooth."
Lin Tian's eyes met Shen Liang's, and he forced a polite smile. "I'm honored by your offer, Senior Shen Liang. However, I believe it's important for me to walk my own path and grow on my own."
A brief flicker of irritation crossed Shen Liang's face, but he quickly masked it with a sneer. "Is that so? Very well. I wonder how long you'll be able to stand by yourself in this sect." Without another word, Shen Liang turned and walked away, his expression dark as he disappeared into the crowd.
Just as Lin Tian exhaled, grateful to avoid further confrontation, another presence loomed over him—this time a familiar face that filled him with both anger and caution. It was Qiu Heng, the brother of Qiu Wei, the bandit he had encountered and fought. Behind Qiu Heng stood a few of his henchmen, who whispered details of the bandit mission into his ear.
"Lin Tian," Qiu Heng sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "I hear you've returned alive, yet my brother isn't back. Care to explain?"
Lin Tian met Qiu Heng's gaze with unwavering eyes. "Your brother's choices led him down a dark path. I reported what I needed to the sect."
Qiu Heng's face twisted in rage. "You dare speak about my brother like that?" he spat. "You think you're some hero now that you've reached Qi Refining? Don't be foolish." His words were laced with venom, his posture aggressive.
"Enough, Qiu Heng," Lin Tian said calmly. "I did what I had to in order to complete my mission."
Qiu Heng laughed bitterly, but there was no humor in his eyes. "Since you're so confident, let's put that new Qi Refining of yours to the test. I challenge you to a life-and-death duel."
A ripple of shock passed through the crowd. A life-and-death duel wasn't something taken lightly, and Lin Tian's mind raced as he considered the implications. By the sect's rules, declining would allow him to avoid the duel, but his reputation would take a serious blow. In the eyes of the sect, backing down was a sign of weakness, something he couldn't afford.
"Or are you afraid, Lin Tian?" Qiu Heng taunted, sensing Lin Tian's hesitation. "Afraid that all this praise is just empty talk?"
Lin Tian clenched his fists, but he held his ground, his face expressionless. "I accept, but on one condition," he said firmly. "We'll face each other in a week's time. I'd like to make sure I'm fully prepared."
Qiu Heng's lips curled into a cruel smile. "Fine. In one week, then. You can have all the time you want; it won't change the outcome."
With a sneer, Qiu Heng turned and stormed off, his henchmen trailing behind him like shadows. Lin Tian stood still, feeling the weight of the impending challenge settle heavily on his shoulders. He knew Qiu Heng was ruthless, but now he realized that the enmity between them was deeper than he'd expected. And to make matters worse, Qiu Heng was notorious for using every advantage at his disposal, whether honorable or not.
As the crowd dispersed, murmurs filled the air, disciples whispering about the upcoming duel. Many looked at Lin Tian with a mix of pity and admiration, realizing the courage it took to accept such a deadly challenge.
One of his fellow disciples, a young man named Wei Long, approached him with a worried expression. "Lin Tian, you know Qiu Heng's reputation. He'll do whatever it takes to crush you. Are you sure about this?"
Lin Tian nodded, his eyes steady. "I didn't have much choice, Wei Long. Backing down now would only give him more leverage over me. I need to show everyone that I won't be intimidated."
Wei Long sighed, clearly conflicted. "Just… be careful. Qiu Heng has tricks up his sleeve, and he'll exploit any weakness. Don't let your guard down."
Lin Tian offered him a reassuring smile. "Thanks, Wei Long. I'll be prepared."
As Lin Tian walked back to his quarters, his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and strategies. He knew the coming week would be intense, filled with hours of training and meditation. He had only one goal—to become strong enough to stand against Qiu Heng and prove his resilience.
Once alone in his room, Lin Tian sat cross-legged, closing his eyes and focusing on his breathing. The path ahead was fraught with danger, but he welcomed the challenge. This duel wasn't just about survival; it was an opportunity to prove to himself that he was truly capable of standing his ground, no matter the odds.