Chapter 22: The Perils of Popularity
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Xu Tian's victory over Zhang Fei became the talk of the Crimson Moon Sect. Some disciples admired his unconventional methods, while others scoffed, claiming he was more trickster than cultivator.
In the dining hall, Xu Tian sat with Mei Lian, leisurely eating steamed buns. Around them, whispers buzzed like flies.
"Did you see his technique? It was so weird but effective."
"He just got lucky. Elder Qin will put him in his place soon enough."
"Honestly, I kinda respect the guts it takes to mock your opponent mid-fight."
Xu Tian smirked as he eavesdropped. "Ah, the sweet sounds of infamy."
"You do realize half these people want to see you fail, right?" Mei Lian said, raising an eyebrow.
"Oh, I know," Xu Tian replied, taking a bite of his bun. "But the other half love me. It's all about balance, Mei Lian. Yin and yang, love and hate, buns and dumplings."
[(Observation: Host's popularity increasing. Potential for exploitation noted.)]
"See? Even the system thinks I'm doing great."
Later that evening, Xu Tian found himself on a secluded rooftop, enjoying the view of the sect illuminated by moonlight.
"Alright, system, what's next? Give me something easy for a change."
[(New task generated: Convince a reclusive elder to teach you an ancient technique. Reward: Advanced Qi Manipulation Scroll.)]
Xu Tian groaned. "Of course, it's not easy. Why would it be? Any hints on where to find this elder?"
[(Hint: Elder Mo resides in the Bamboo Glade. Known for extreme mistrust and dislike of sect politics.)]
"Great. A hermit with a grudge. This should be fun," Xu Tian said sarcastically.
The next morning, Xu Tian set off for the Bamboo Glade, a remote corner of the sect's territory. Mei Lian insisted on accompanying him, claiming he'd likely get lost or provoke someone along the way.
"You know, I can handle myself," Xu Tian said, dodging a low-hanging branch.
"Sure," Mei Lian replied dryly. "That's why you've been nearly killed at least three times since I met you."
"Details, details," Xu Tian said, waving a hand.
The path grew narrower as they approached the glade, the towering bamboo casting dappled shadows on the ground. A faint hum of energy filled the air, making Xu Tian's hair stand on end.
"This place is... intense," he muttered.
"That's Elder Mo's aura," Mei Lian explained. "He's said to be one of the strongest in the sect, but he withdrew from public life years ago."
"Sounds like my kind of guy," Xu Tian said, grinning.
They found Elder Mo meditating in a small clearing, surrounded by a ring of perfectly aligned stones. His long white beard and tattered robes gave him the appearance of an ancient sage, but his sharp eyes betrayed a keen intellect.
"State your business and leave," Elder Mo said without opening his eyes.
"Greetings, venerable elder," Xu Tian began, bowing deeply. "I've heard tales of your unparalleled wisdom and sought your guidance to—"
"Flattery won't work," Elder Mo interrupted. "Be direct or begone."
"Alright," Xu Tian said, straightening up. "I want you to teach me an ancient technique. In exchange, I'll... uh... share my unique perspective on life?"
Elder Mo finally opened his eyes, his gaze piercing. "What makes you think you're worthy of my time?"
[(Suggestion: Demonstrate capability through an impromptu challenge.)]
"Fine, fine," Xu Tian muttered. "How about a little demonstration?"
Elder Mo stood, gesturing to a pile of smooth stones nearby. "Balance five of these stones on top of each other. Use only your Qi. Fail, and you'll leave immediately."
Xu Tian scratched his head. "That's it? Balancing rocks? Sounds easy enough."
As he concentrated, channeling his Qi into the stones, he quickly realized the challenge wasn't as simple as it seemed. The stones wobbled with even the slightest energy fluctuation.
"This is ridiculous," Xu Tian muttered, sweat beading on his forehead.
[(Tip: Utilize Gale Step principles for precise energy control.)]
"Oh, now you're helpful," Xu Tian grumbled.
Drawing on his experience with Gale Step, he adjusted his Qi flow, stabilizing the stones one by one. Finally, the fifth stone rested atop the stack, perfectly balanced.
Elder Mo's eyebrows rose. "Impressive. Most fail before the third stone. Very well, I'll hear your request."
"Alright, here's the deal," Xu Tian said, plopping down on the ground. "You teach me this ancient technique, and I promise to never drag you into sect politics."
Elder Mo chuckled dryly. "A tempting offer, but not enough. Why should I share my hard-earned knowledge with a rogue like you?"
"Because I'm a breath of fresh air," Xu Tian replied. "Let's be honest, the sect could use someone who thinks outside the box. Plus, I've got a knack for making the impossible happen."
Elder Mo studied him for a long moment before sighing. "You remind me of a younger version of myself—reckless, arrogant, but oddly persuasive."
"So that's a yes?" Xu Tian asked, grinning.
"It's a maybe," Elder Mo said. "Return tomorrow. If you can pass my next test, I'll consider it."
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To Be Continued...
With Elder Mo intrigued but not yet convinced, Xu Tian's journey to unlock the ancient technique continues. What trials will the eccentric elder devise, and how will Xu Tian's unorthodox approach fare? Stay tuned for more chaos and comedy in Ascension of the Cosmic Fool!