Chapter 36: Bonds Forged in Fire
The road leading back from the Jade River Sect was quiet, the soft rustle of leaves and the occasional call of distant birds the only sounds accompanying Zhang Wei. The alliance with the Jade River Sect was a step forward, but it was only the beginning. The Veil of Oblivion's influence spanned farther than any single sect could counter, and Zhang Wei's next task loomed large in his mind.
As he neared the Azure Sky Sect, Lin Xiyu was waiting at the gates, her arms crossed and a teasing smirk playing on her lips.
"Look who's back," she said. "I half expected you to come dragging in covered in blood again."
Zhang Wei chuckled, shaking his head. "Not this time. The Jade River Sect has agreed to join us. Their support will strengthen our position against the Veil."
Her expression softened slightly. "That's good news. But you don't look like someone celebrating a victory. What's bothering you?"
"The Veil is too quiet," Zhang Wei admitted, his tone grave. "We've taken steps against them, but they haven't made any major moves since Ironwood Valley. It's like they're waiting for something."
"Or planning something," Lin Xiyu said, her smirk fading. "You think they're setting a trap?"
"Possibly," Zhang Wei said. "But it doesn't matter. Whatever they're planning, we need to keep moving forward. The more alliances we forge, the harder it'll be for them to act unchecked."
The system chimed: New Quest: Forge alliances with two additional sects to strengthen the coalition against the Veil of Oblivion.
Objective: Secure partnerships with sects of differing specialties to create a balanced front.Reward: Enhanced group leadership techniques and Sect Contribution Points.
Zhang Wei wasted no time setting out for his next target: the Crimson Blade Sect. Unlike the Jade River Sect, the Crimson Blade Sect was known for its aggressive nature and expertise in combat. Their disciples were said to be unmatched in direct confrontations, making them a crucial addition to the coalition.
The Crimson Blade Sect's stronghold was located atop a jagged mountain range, its stone fortifications blending seamlessly with the rugged cliffs. Zhang Wei arrived at their gates to find a line of armored guards barring his way.
"I'm Zhang Wei of the Azure Sky Sect," he announced. "I've come to speak with your leader about a matter of great importance."
One of the guards frowned. "Our sect leader isn't in the habit of meeting strangers. State your purpose clearly, or turn back."
Zhang Wei's gaze didn't waver. "The Veil of Oblivion threatens the entire cultivation world. If we don't unite, none of us will survive their machinations."
The guards exchanged uneasy glances before one nodded. "Wait here. I'll inform the sect leader of your arrival."
The sect leader, Master Bai Yun, was a towering figure with sharp features and an aura of unyielding authority. Zhang Wei met him in the sect's grand hall, where the walls were adorned with weapons and banners from past victories.
"You've come to my sect seeking an alliance," Bai Yun said, his voice deep and commanding. "Yet you've brought no proof of this so-called threat. Why should the Crimson Blade Sect lend its strength to your cause?"
Zhang Wei stepped forward, his tone steady. "The Veil of Oblivion has already acted. They manipulated the Shadow Fang Sect into a war that nearly destroyed the Azure Sky Sect. They're recruiting more sects and clans as we speak. If we don't stand together, they'll pick us off one by one."
Bai Yun stroked his chin thoughtfully. "You speak with conviction, but words alone won't sway me. If you want the Crimson Blade Sect's support, you'll have to prove yourself."
The system chimed: Sub-quest: Earn the Crimson Blade Sect's trust through a trial of combat.
Objective: Defeat three of their strongest disciples in combat.Reward: Crimson Blade Sect's support and combat training techniques.
Zhang Wei was led to the sect's training grounds, where dozens of disciples gathered to watch. His opponents were formidable, each one wielding a unique weapon and exuding a powerful aura.
The first disciple, a dual-blade wielder, attacked with speed and precision. Zhang Wei met their strikes with calm efficiency, his spear deflecting the twin blades before landing a decisive blow that sent them sprawling.
The second disciple, a brute with a massive hammer, relied on sheer strength. Zhang Wei used his Shadow Step Technique to evade the hammer's crushing strikes, exploiting the disciple's lack of speed to deliver a series of sharp counterattacks.
The final opponent was a woman wielding a chain whip infused with fire Qi. Her attacks were unpredictable, forcing Zhang Wei to stay on the defensive as he searched for an opening. When her movements overextended, Zhang Wei struck with a powerful thrust, disarming her and ending the fight.
The crowd erupted in cheers as Zhang Wei stood victorious. Master Bai Yun approached, a rare smile on his face.
"You've proven yourself, Zhang Wei," Bai Yun said. "The Crimson Blade Sect will join your coalition. Together, we'll ensure the Veil of Oblivion doesn't succeed in their schemes."
The system chimed: Sub-quest complete. Rewarding Sect Contribution Points and Crimson Blade Sect alliance.
As Zhang Wei departed from the Crimson Blade Sect, he couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope. The coalition was growing stronger, but the Veil of Oblivion remained a looming threat.
"This is only the beginning," Zhang Wei murmured, his resolve unshaken. "No matter what lies ahead, I'll see this through."