The journey to the Celestial Wind Ruins was filled with a quiet tension, each disciple preparing in their own way for what lay ahead. As they approached, the landscape shifted, giving way to a barren expanse where jagged stones jutted from the ground like broken bones, remnants of an ancient stronghold that had weathered the passage of time.
Finally, they stood before the ruins, a towering structure of crumbling stone and vine-covered archways. Faded symbols, worn away by centuries, adorned the walls, their once-brilliant markings now ghostly whispers of a forgotten age.
Zheng Rui raised his hand, gesturing for the disciples to gather around him. "These ruins are treacherous, and while I trust your skills, remember to proceed with caution. The Celestial Wind Clan left behind defensive measures and traps, some of which could prove fatal if underestimated."
He turned his gaze to the group, his expression serious. "Remember, your main objective is to explore the ruins, retrieve any artifacts you may find, and bring back the Celestial Wind Compass if you locate it. Work together when necessary, but keep your wits about you. We'll regroup here by sundown."
With that, the disciples began splitting into groups, each sect sticking together for safety. Bai Jian and Wang Shao moved together, nodding at each other as they made their way toward a dark, narrow corridor on the left side of the ruins. The air grew cooler as they ventured deeper, each step echoing slightly in the stillness.
After passing through a series of twisting hallways, they entered a wide chamber with high, arched ceilings. Dust floated lazily in the beams of light filtering through cracks in the walls, casting a dim glow over the room. At the center of the chamber stood several statues of armored warriors, each holding a weapon and poised as if frozen in battle.
Bai Jian took a cautious step forward, his hand instinctively moving toward Cloudsong.
Wang Shao, noticing the unease in his friend's stance, furrowed his brow. "These statues… they don't feel right."
No sooner had he spoken than the air filled with a faint, mechanical hum. One by one, the statues' eyes glowed an eerie blue, and with grinding sounds of stone against metal, they began to move. The puppets came to life, their joints creaking as they raised their weapons, ready to strike.
"Be careful," Bai Jian muttered, drawing Cloudsong and stepping into a defensive stance.
The first puppet lunged forward, its saber swinging in a wide arc. Bai Jian reacted quickly, activating the White Mist Step to dodge its initial strike, then retaliated with a precise slash of Cloudsong. His sword struck the puppet's arm, but the stone and metal exterior only cracked slightly.
"Looks like they're tougher than I thought," he muttered, adjusting his grip.
Wang Shao, meanwhile, had drawn his own weapon and was squaring off against another puppet. He ducked beneath a sweeping strike, then countered with a powerful thrust aimed at the puppet's torso. The impact forced the puppet back, but it quickly regained its balance and pressed forward.
Bai Jian focused his qi, channeling it through Cloudsong. He activated the Heaven-Shattering Fist with his free hand, delivering a blow to the puppet's torso that sent it staggering back. It bought him just enough time to adjust his stance and follow up with a slash that carried a faint aura of cloud aura, targeting the weakened spot on the puppet's body.
"Nice work, Bai Jian!" Wang Shao called out, blocking another strike from his opponent before delivering a sweeping kick that sent the puppet off balance. Seizing the opportunity, he lunged forward, his blade sinking into the puppet's exposed joint and causing it to collapse.
Wang Shao walked forward, cautiously glancing around the room. "Seems like we handled that well enough," he murmured, giving a satisfied nod. He stepped over the scattered remains of the puppets and began inspecting the area for anything of value.
Wang Shao's eyes brightened as he noticed a cluster of rare herbs growing near the base of one of the stone pillars. He bent down, carefully examining the slender green stalks and broad leaves tinged with faint golden veins. Recognizing it immediately, he grinned and plucked one of the herbs, holding it up for Bai Jian to see.
"This is a Verdant Heart Herb," he said, his tone reverent. "It's known to enhance qi flow for those with a wood attribute, strengthening cultivation and improving stamina during long sessions. Perfect for someone like me."
Bai Jian nodded, watching as Wang Shao carefully stored the herb in his pouch. "Looks like it's exactly what you need, then. I'll just take a few of the qi gathering pills instead."
Wang Shao chuckled, giving Bai Jian a grateful nod.