Chapter Five: The Scholar's Invitation
Wei Feng had spent an entire year in the village, immersing himself in the teachings of Xuan Gu Academy. His initial excitement had given way to a deep sense of purpose. The ancient scrolls, the meticulously transcribed books, and the wise words of his mentors had all become a part of him, weaving together the foundation for his understanding of the world of Gu. It was not just knowledge that he had gained; it was a shift in perception. He had begun to see the world through the lens of Gu, a lens that painted everything in shades of energy, power, and potential. Each person, each tree, even the stones beneath his feet—everything had a connection to Gu, a vital force that defined existence.
In the first few months, Wei Feng was like a sponge, absorbing everything that the academy offered him. His sharp mind and boundless curiosity had made him a favorite among the academy's scholars. They would often seek his opinion on various theories, and he, in turn, would engage in hours of discourse, explaining his thoughts on the cultivation of Gu with precision and clarity. Soon, whispers began to spread through the village of the young scholar who could understand Gu better than most seasoned cultivators. He was not just another student—he was a prodigy, a rising star in the world of Gu.
But despite his growing reputation, Wei Feng never lost his cheerful disposition. He still greeted each new discovery with a wide smile, still approached each challenge with the same enthusiasm and optimism that had fueled him in his first days in the village. His world was one of endless possibilities, each scroll and each lesson like a new step on a long, winding path toward immortality.
His first real test came when he was invited to one of the other two schools. It came on a quiet evening, as he was sitting by the academy's library, lost in a book that detailed the different types of Gu insects and their abilities. A messenger had appeared, a young man with a serious expression, holding an ornate scroll sealed with the emblem of the "Heaven's Path Sect."
"Wei Feng," the messenger had said, his voice steady and respectful. "You are hereby invited to the Heaven's Path Sect. The Sect Master has requested your presence. He believes your understanding of Gu is unparalleled, and you may be a suitable candidate for further cultivation under our guidance."
Wei Feng looked up from his book, his mind racing. This was no ordinary invitation. The Heaven's Path Sect was known for its rigorous training and its strict, almost fanatical pursuit of immortality. It was said that those who were chosen to study under its roof were destined for greatness—or destruction. Few ever left the sect after joining, and even fewer reached the heights of cultivation that the sect promised.
The idea of becoming part of such a prestigious institution filled Wei Feng's heart with excitement. To be invited to the Heaven's Path Sect was an honor. But there was also a flicker of unease in his chest. The path of immortality, he knew, was not without its risks. Yet, the desire for knowledge, for power, and for the eternal life that Gu promised, overshadowed any lingering doubts. He would go. He would see what the sect had to offer.
The next morning, Wei Feng packed his belongings and prepared to leave Xuan Gu Academy. His teachers, some of whom had become his closest confidants, wished him well. "Remember, Wei Feng," one of his instructors said with a serious look, "Heaven's Path is a school that values discipline above all. Their teachings are focused, but their methods are harsh. Be careful what you choose to pursue there."
Wei Feng nodded, smiling brightly. "I'm ready for whatever comes my way. The path to immortality is never easy, but it's one I've chosen to walk."
And so, with the weight of his decision heavy on his shoulders but his heart alight with curiosity, Wei Feng set off toward the Heaven's Path Sect. The journey was long and the road treacherous, but with each step, his resolve only grew stronger. He could feel the pull of destiny, the invisible hand guiding him forward.
The Heaven's Path Sect was located on a vast mountain, shrouded in mist and legend. As Wei Feng approached, he could see the towering gates of the sect's compound, flanked by two massive stone statues of ancient Gu beasts. The air around the gates crackled with an intensity that made Wei Feng's skin tingle. This was no ordinary place. This was a place where the most powerful cultivators honed their craft, where the highest knowledge of Gu was passed down from master to disciple.
When he arrived at the entrance, two disciples stood guard, their expressions unreadable. One of them stepped forward as Wei Feng approached. "You are the scholar, Wei Feng?" he asked, his voice low and commanding.
"Yes," Wei Feng replied, his voice steady, though his heart raced with anticipation. "I've been invited by the Sect Master."
The disciple studied him for a moment before nodding. "Follow me."
They walked through the gates, and Wei Feng felt a sense of awe wash over him. The compound was sprawling, with towering pagodas and grand halls, each dedicated to different aspects of Gu cultivation. Disciples moved about, each one engrossed in their studies or cultivation. Some were practicing martial arts, while others were deep in meditation, their bodies surrounded by shimmering Gu energy. It was a place where immortality wasn't just a dream—it was a reality that could be grasped, cultivated, and perfected.
At the heart of the sect, they arrived at a large, imposing hall. Inside, the Sect Master awaited, seated at the head of a long table. The room was filled with an almost oppressive aura of power, and Wei Feng couldn't help but feel a slight twinge of nervousness. This was the place where his future would be decided, where his path would be shaped.
The Sect Master was an elderly man with long, flowing hair and a piercing gaze. His robes were adorned with intricate patterns of ancient Gu symbols, and his presence alone made the entire room seem to tremble. "Wei Feng," he said, his voice deep and resonant, "I have heard much about you. Your knowledge of Gu is vast for one so young. But knowledge alone will not make you great. It is discipline, sacrifice, and the will to endure that will define you."
Wei Feng bowed deeply, his heart filled with both reverence and determination. "I understand, Sect Master. I am willing to learn. I wish to reach the peak of cultivation and achieve immortality."
The Sect Master smiled, though it was a cold, calculating smile. "Very well. You are welcome here, Wei Feng. But remember—this is not a place for the weak. Only those who are truly worthy can succeed in our teachings. Now, let us begin."
And with that, Wei Feng stepped into the halls of the Heaven's Path Sect, his fate forever changed.
---