White Cloud Sword Sect, Main Mountain, Zhi Hua's Courtyard
Zhi Hua sat on his bed, contemplating the qi ball hovering above his palm. "Qi Refinement, 3rd level. That shouldn't be so bad, right?" He murmured to himself, the indigo glow of the qi reflecting in his eyes. "But why is it indigo? It should be light blue, not indigo."
Searching through his memories, he tried to recall his father's teachings, "Colorless for Qi Gathering, light blue for Qi Refinement, and finally blue for Foundation Establishment. Other than these color changes, the color of the Qi only changes when you transcend, but that is only a legend."
He didn't know how to feel about it, as a series of questions arose, 'Is it an omen, or a blessing? Why can't I be normal? I just want a family that loves me, not to be extraordinary or cursed.'
The tranquility of his house contrasted sharply with the storm of questions raging in his mind. As the wind gently rustled the leaves outside, Zhi Hua resolved to uncover the mystery of his indigo qi and what it meant for his path forward, 'Why am I worried, I could just ask my parents.'
Now that he knew they cared, it brought happiness to his dull life, unlike his previous ones. He again remembered his life on Earth, his struggle, his despair. Trembling a bit, he closed his eyes, trying to forget it, but how can trauma like that be forgotten?
"I won't be repeating that mistake, I let life win. Now I shall win." Sudden thought drew him into a mysterious state, showing him flashbacks of his good and bad times on Earth and his brief time here.
What he was experiencing was enlightenment, a thing cultivators would experience once they are at the bottleneck in cultivation.
After about an hour, he opened his eyes, they were clear as the night sky and shined with newfound wisdom, "Ethan, Lila, Isabela, I left you but here is where I shall live. Be truly alive, and not be restricted by my past."
He also remembered Anne and James, Lucas and Nicole, people who were the reason his life was so difficult, so empty. The feeling of emptiness filled him again, and the depression and anxiety started to dwell in his soul.
Right as he was about to fall into that state again, a melodious voice pulled him out of the darkness, "Hua'er, what's wrong? You seemed troubled earlier, and now your qi is in chaos."
Lian Hua entered the room, but to Zhi Hua, it was like light itself entered. Immediately the room seemed a little less dark, and something in his heart trembled, "Mother…"
But before he could even say anything, she embraced him, a hug full of motherly love: "My Hua'er, it will be okay. I don't know what troubles you, but you have White Cloud Sword Sect, Lian Clan, and me and your father."
Patting his head, she whispered, "You are not alone." That was the moment he broke down, all past experiences told him not to trust her, but a spark of hope once lit can't be extinguished easily.
Tears rolled down his face, and his quickened breath showed his level of anxiety. Trembling he hugged her tighter.
After half an hour he calmed down, looking embarrassed. She pulled apart, and seeing her son calmer she waved her hand, and out of her storage ring a guzheng appeared.
The guzheng was jade white, its strings golde, and it gave a serene and mysterious aura, it sat on her lap, "This guzheng was made from an old peach tree, it was a gift from my mother." She stoked a few notes and the melody it created was heavenly, immediately it washed away my thoughts. A sad look appeared in Lian Hua's eyes, though it quickly vanished.
"Your father has given you his lesson, now it's time for me, as I don't want to be left behind. This piece is my heart, called 'Flow of Life - Eternal Harmoney'."
She took a deep breath, her fingers lightly touching the strings. "Hua'er, let me show you a technique I created myself," she said, her voice filled with pride and affection. "It embodies the essence of life through the power of music."
With a graceful motion, she began to play. The first notes of Blossoms Awakening (花开初绽) echoed through the room, each sound like a flower blooming. The melody filled the air with the freshness and vibrancy of spring, rejuvenating Zhi Hua both physically and mentally.
Zhi Hua could feel the energy coursing through him, revitalizing his spirit. "Mother, this is incredible." He whispered, awe-struck by the beauty and power of the technique
She smiled warmly, full of pride, "This is just the beginning." The notes became brighter and more energetic, reflecting the fullness of Sunlit Serenade (阳光小夜曲). The air around them warmed, and Zhi Hua felt an invigorating surge of strength and vitality. The melody was alive with the exuberance of summer, filling him with a renewed sense of purpose.
"Remember, Hua'er, this is the peak of life," Lian Hua said, her fingers dancing over the strings. "Embrace it with all your heart."
As the music shifted again, it took on a rich, mellow tone, symbolizing Golden Harvest (金色丰收). The essence of autumn flowed through the notes, bringing wisdom and maturity. Zhi Hua felt a deep calm settle over him, his thoughts clearer, his mind sharper. The melody carried the weight of experience and the rewards of a life well-lived.
Lian Hua's eyes met Zhi Hua's, a silent understanding passing between them. "With age comes wisdom, my son," she said softly. "Cherish the lessons you've learned."
Finally, the music softened, becoming gentle and contemplative. The notes of Silent Snowfall (静雪飘落) filled the valley, mirroring the quiet descent of snowflakes. The air grew cooler, and a serene tranquility enveloped them. Zhi Hua felt a peaceful acceptance, understanding that this was the natural conclusion of life's cycle.
"Death is but a part of the journey," Lian Hua whispered, her eyes filled with warmth and a bit of sadness. "Embrace it with grace and peace."
As the last note faded, Zhi Hua opened his eyes, feeling a profound connection to the world around him. His mother smiled, her presence a beacon of strength and love.
'Yes, I'm Noah, but my past does not define me.' As that thought flashed, a small piece of darkness was replaced by light. But darkness was still there, just outshined by his mother's light.
An idea popped into his head, 'What if I learn to play guzheng? After all, I do have unparalleled talent in it.' Thinking about it for a moment, he hesitated.
Lian Hua stood up and said, with great care, "You know you can tell me everything." She smiled warmly, giving him hope that he so badly wanted to cling to. But his heart didn't let him because of all his past experiences.
He mustered all his strength he opened his mouth, his hands trembling, "Could you… could you teach me how to play? I would like to learn." He closed his eyes expecting a dismissing look, and not wanting to see it on her face he shut his eyes.
His heartbeat rose, trying to fight the urge to open his eyes and look upon her, all dismissive and indifferent.
Lian Hua paused. For a moment, the room was silent except for the sound of their breathing. When she spoke, her voice was soft and filled with warmth.
"Of course, my dear Hua'er." She reached out, gently placing her hand over his trembling ones. "I would be honored to teach you."
Zhi Hua's eyes fluttered open, disbelief and hope mingling in his gaze. "Really?" His voice was barely above a whisper, the vulnerability in his tone palpable.
Lian Hua smiled a tender expression that lit up her face. "Really. You have a natural talent, Hua'er. I've seen it in the way you move, the way you listen to the world around you. Music is a part of you, just waiting to be discovered."
She sat down and adjusted the guzheng on her lap, creating space for him to sit beside her. "Come, sit with me. Let's start with the basics."
Zhi Hua hesitated for a moment before moving to sit next to his mother, his heart pounding in his chest. As he settled beside her, Lian Hua guided his hands to the strings, her touch gentle and reassuring.
"This is called 'Blossoms Awakening,'" she said, plucking a few notes with practiced ease. "Listen to each note, feel the rhythm. Music is not just about playing the notes; it's about expressing your emotions, telling a story."
Zhi Hua watched intently, trying to mimic her movements. His initial attempts were clumsy, his fingers fumbling on the strings. But Lian Hua's patience never wavered.
"Take your time, Hua'er. Music is a journey, not a race." She played a few more notes, the melody soothing and uplifting.
Slowly, Zhi Hua's fingers began to find their way. The notes he produced were hesitant, but there was a budding confidence in his movements. With each strum, he felt a little bit of the darkness lift, replaced by the light of hope and connection.
Seeing that he was getting better at playing music at a fast pace, Zhi Hua felt a profound sense of gratitude towards the Transcendent Being. 'I could only be here because of it, so I will live for it at least.' He resolved.
This newfound purpose and appreciation for the second chance he had been given motivated him to continue improving, not just for himself but to honor the opportunity bestowed upon him. This determination fueled his practice and growth, reinforcing his commitment to make the most of his new life.
As the lesson continued, Zhi Hua lost himself in the music, his anxieties and fears fading into the background. For the first time in a long while, he felt truly at peace, a sense of belonging in his heart.
As she watched her son, Lian Hua, could tell he would become one of if not the best music cultivators in the Xiang Dynasty, 'He will probably suppress me in less the a decade. I needed thirty years to make this technique, and another ten to master it. I was called a genius in Music Arts but compared to my son, I was just ordinary.'
Looking in awe, 'He will probably master it in less than a year.' A hearty laugh escaped her mouth, "Haha, when I see how you improve I can't help but be jealous and proud. Jealous, because of your talent, and proud, I'm your mother."
As she said that, he stopped practicing and stared at her in silence. The last note played echoed in the room, and it was the first note of Silent Snowfall. His thoughts spiraled around the word 'proud', a word he hadn't heard from anyone except Clare. She was the only person that had been proud of him.
Lian Hua took the spark she had lit earlier and nurtured it, transforming it into a fire that burned brightly with hope for a second chance. Her unwavering support and the healing power of her music fanned the flames of his newfound purpose, illuminating the path forward.
Zhi Hua felt this warmth envelop him, guiding him toward a future filled with potential and promise, 'I can deal with my emptiness because I'm not alone, mother and father are with me, as well as the whole sect and Lian Clan.'
He continued the practice under his mother's watch, giving him the attention he so desperately needed. The warmth of her presence and her patient guidance provided him with a sense of security and belonging. As they practiced, Zhi Hua felt a profound connection to the music, each note resonating with his soul.
In a moment of deep focus, he learned the piece Silent Snowfall right there and then, the notes flowing naturally from his fingers. Having experienced death, the melody carried a weight of understanding and acceptance that was unique to him. This accomplishment wasn't just a testament to his talent, but also to the depth of his experiences and his journey towards healing.
Lian Hua, however, was shocked. Her loving expression turned into one of disbelief, 'How did he learn Silent Snowfall first? You would need to…' Shaking her head, she thought, 'No, that's impossible. I've been with Hua'er since his birth, and he always stayed in the sect. He couldn't have experienced death, right?'
The realization left her in awe and concern. Zhi Hua continued to play, lost in the melody, unaware of his mother's internal turmoil. Lian Hua decided to keep her doubts to herself for the time being, focusing instead on supporting her son. Her resolve strengthened, she watched him with renewed determination, ready to guide him through whatever lay ahead. Though she made a note for herself, 'I need to talk to Jian about this.'
As Zhi Hua stopped playing, Lian Hua stood up, moved forward, and hugged him tightly. She thought to herself, 'I don't know what made you feel this way, but I will help you cope with that sadness.' Hugging him a bit tighter, she whispered, "It will be okay, my Hua'er."
In her embrace, Zhi Hua felt a wave of warmth and comfort wash over him. The love and support from his mother gave him the strength to face his emotions. He hugged her back, feeling a little less alone in his struggles.
Though a spark of hope and trust was ignited, he couldn't fully shake off the shadows of his past. The deep scars from years of neglect and betrayal held him back from trusting her wholeheartedly. 'I wish I could trust you, but they broke me too much.' he thought, feeling the weight of his past.
He felt sorry for her because she was showing so much support but he couldn't make himself trust her wholeheartedly. Yet, her unwavering support was a beacon of light, slowly guiding him toward a place of safety and acceptance.
Lian Hua's resolve to help him cope with his sadness became a guiding light for Zhi Hua. With her by his side, he felt more confident in his journey of healing and self-discovery, even if his trust was still in the process of being fully rebuilt.
As they pulled apart, Lian Hua looked at him deeply before saying, "Your father wanted to see you, go to his quarters. He has something important to discuss with you." Zhi Hua was filled with anticipation, nervousness, and a bit of fear.
Taking a deep breath, Zhi Hua nodded and went out, 'This will be my first time leaving the courtyard. I hope everything goes well.' His hands started to tremble a bit as he walked, the weight of anticipation, nervousness, and a deep-seated fear pressing down on him.
To arrive at his father's quarters, he had to cross the main road, a bustling place full of disciples and occasionally elders. The thought of facing so many people intensified his fear. Memories of past judgments and harsh words flooded his mind, making him walk a bit slower in hesitation. 'Father could come to my courtyard if it's important,' he thought.
He stopped at that thought, shaking his head. 'No, they didn't ask anything from me. The least I can do is not be an inconvenience.' Despite his fear of being judged and the ghosts of his past, he steeled himself.
As he crossed the main road, he observed the disciples training and elders conversing. Each glance in his direction felt like a potential judgment, amplifying his anxiety. His hands trembled more, and as anxiety rose, a person approached him, he looked to be in his early 20s.
He was dressed in a deep blue robe and had his brown hair tied in a ponytail looking imposing. As he approached Zhi Hua's breath quickened making him look rather distressed. He had sharp features and brown eyes that pierced through Zhi Hua's newfound confidence.
As he stopped in front of Zhi Hua, he stood for a moment, but that moment felt like an eternity to him, intensifying his emotions. Suddenly the man clasped his hands, "Disciple Zhen Nihu greets Eldest Senior Brother!"
As he said that many people looked over curiously, seeing the son of the Sect Leader was difficult. He was a genius, born only once a century, and achieved Qi Refinement before his thirties.
Zhi Hua felt a mix of pride and anxiety. 'Why do I still feel like I don't belong here?' he thought, struggling to maintain his composure. The attention from the surrounding disciples and elders only added to his unease.
Zhen Nihu's greeting was both respectful and formal, yet his presence was intimidating. "It is an honor to see you, Eldest Senior Brother," Zhen Nihu continued, his voice steady and clear.
Zhi Hua nodded, trying to steady his breath. "Thank you, Disciple Zhen Nihu," he replied, his voice wavering slightly. "I am on my way to see my father."
Zhen Nihu looked rather disappointed, but it was quickly concealed, 'So you chose that path.' A sad look appeared in his eyes but quickly vanished, "Of course," he said, stepping aside with a slight bow. "May your path be smooth, Eldest Senior Brother."
As Zhi Hua was walking many whispered around him, "So that is the son of Sect Leader, I haven't seen him in two years." Many of the whispers made Zhi Hua doubt himself but he distracted himself by observing his surroundings.
He noticed the intricate carvings on the temple walls, the disciplined movements of the disciples' training, and the serene beauty of the blooming trees. The sect was filled with various trees, their blossoms adding vibrant splashes of color and a fragrant aroma to the air.
Among them, the cherry blossoms stood out with their delicate pink petals gently drifting in the breeze. The plum trees, with their deep purple and white flowers, created a striking contrast against the greenery. The sweet scent of jasmine filled the air, its white blossoms adding a touch of purity and serenity.
Each observation helped him ground himself, easing his anxiety little by little. Despite the whispers and his lingering doubts, Zhi Hua felt a small spark of determination grow within him.
As he watched Zhi Hua leave, Zhen Nihu looked rather disappointed, but it was quickly concealed. 'He really doesn't remember me. The eldest Senior Brother sure is cruel. After just a mere three years, you still don't remember me?' A sad look appeared in his eyes but quickly vanished, as he clenched his fists.
Three years ago, Zhi Hua and Zhen Nihu were inseparable. They had sworn brotherhood under the ancient cherry blossom tree, vowing to support each other through thick and thin. Together, they faced countless challenges, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. They shared dreams, aspirations, and even secrets.
But everything changed when a woman named Qin Ming entered their lives. Qin Ming was as beautiful as she was talented, captivating the hearts of many disciples within the sect. Both Zhi Hua and Zhen Nihu found themselves drawn to her, their brotherly bond tested by their feelings for her.
Qin Ming, with her charm and intelligence, had other plans. She sought to manipulate Zhi Hua, aiming to become his wife and secure her position within the sect. Lian Hua, Zhi Hua's mother and a Great Elder, quickly saw through Qin Ming's disguise. Using her authority, she banished Qin Ming from the sect, protecting her son from manipulation.
However, the damage had already been done. The rivalry and misunderstandings between Zhi Hua and Zhen Nihu had grown too deep. Feeling betrayed and hurt, Zhen Nihu distanced himself, leaving a chasm in their once unbreakable bond. In an attempt to move forward, Zhi Hua chose to forget about Zhen Nihu, burying the painful memories and focusing on his cultivation and training.
Now, however, watching Zhi Hua walk away, Zhen Nihu couldn't help but feel the sting of those old wounds. 'So much has changed,' he thought, 'but I will not let this be the end of us. One day, I will remind you of our bond, and we will be brothers again.'
Unaware of the feelings of Zhen Nihu, Zhi Hua struggled with his feelings of anxiety and nervousness, as he walked toward his father's quarters. As he was about to knock, he heard his father's voice from inside, "Hua'er, come in"
And taking a deep breath he walked in.