Morning in Tianlan was as picturesque as a painting, the rising sun spilling its golden light across the city's walls and rooftops. The winter frost had finally receded, leaving behind the fresh scent of budding flowers and fertile earth. Merchants were already calling out their wares, their voices mixing with the occasional laughter of children running through narrow streets.
Jin walked at a leisurely pace with Gian and Mochi by his side, their small hands clutching his robes as they weaved through the lively market. Despite his attempt at subtlety, his presence was impossible to ignore. Even in the simplest of robes, the aura of authority he radiated commanded attention.
The common folk bowed deeply when he passed, their expressions a mixture of reverence and fear. Some even knelt on the ground, unwilling to lift their heads until he was out of sight.
"Father, why does everyone do that?" Gian asked, her emerald eyes filled with curiosity as she glanced back at a vendor who had prostrated himself.
Jin's lips twitched into a faint smile. "Because they remember who I am, even if I do not announce it."
"But isn't that strange?" Mochi chimed in, her delicate features scrunched in confusion. "We've only just come here."
Jin paused, crouching to their level. His gaze was gentle but firm as he spoke. "A long time ago, I showed this world a glimpse of my strength. It was enough to leave an impression that even time cannot erase."
Gian tilted her head, her long dark hair swaying. "Does that mean you're really famous, Father?"
"Infamous, perhaps," Jin replied, standing again. "But fame is a fleeting thing. What matters is the mark we leave behind."
---
The Market's Charm
Their walk resumed, with Gian darting toward a stall selling vibrant paints and brushes. The vendor, an elderly man with a weathered face, froze as she approached. His hands trembled as he reached for the finest set he had, offering it with a deep bow.
"Please, young lady, take this. It would be my honor."
"But I haven't paid," Gian protested, glancing back at her father.
Jin merely nodded, his gaze fixed on the merchant. "Accept it. The man gives it willingly."
The merchant's head bobbed up and down. "It's a small gesture for the World Architect's child."
Gian accepted the gift, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She clutched the brushes to her chest, already envisioning the landscapes she could bring to life.
Meanwhile, Mochi had found her way to a stall selling trinkets and toys. She picked up a jade carving of a fox, its surface polished to a gleaming finish. "Father, can I have this?"
"Of course," Jin said, paying the vendor with a simple flick of his wrist.
The sisters giggled as they compared their newfound treasures, their voices blending with the hum of the market. Jin watched them quietly, content to let them enjoy these small moments.
---
Encounters with Sect Disciples
As they continued exploring, a group of sect disciples crossed their path. Clad in elaborate robes bearing the insignias of their respective factions, the disciples exuded confidence. They were discussing their latest assignments, their voices carrying just enough volume to draw attention.
Gian slowed her steps, her gaze fixed on them. She observed the way they moved, the disciplined aura that surrounded them. Her curiosity was evident.
"Father," she began hesitantly, "do you think I could join a sect one day?"
Jin raised an eyebrow, surprised by the question. "Why would you want to?"
"They seem... strong," Gian said, her voice thoughtful. "And they get to travel and learn so many things. Don't you think it would be exciting?"
Mochi tugged at her sister's sleeve. "I think you'd look really cool in one of those robes!"
Jin didn't respond immediately. He watched the disciples disappear around a corner before turning back to his daughters. "Strength is not something you gain by wearing robes or joining a sect. It comes from within, through discipline and understanding. But," he added after a pause, "if that is what you truly desire, we will discuss it further."
Gian nodded, satisfied for now, and the trio resumed their exploration.
---
Reflections at Home
That evening, after returning to their home, Jin sat alone under the open sky. The stars were scattered across the heavens like shards of crystal, their light illuminating his thoughtful expression.
Gian's words lingered in his mind. She was growing, her curiosity leading her to question the world around her. It was a natural progression, but one that required careful guidance.
He thought of the vast world beyond their peaceful abode—the sects, the clans, the endless possibilities. His daughters had spent most of their lives sheltered from it all, but that could not last forever.
"They should know," Jin murmured to himself. "Not just of my strength, but of the grandeur and complexities of this world."
---
A New Chapter
The next morning, Jin gathered his daughters in the courtyard. The air was crisp, the scent of dew still lingering as the first rays of sunlight touched the ground.
"Sachi," he began, using Gian's nickname, "you spoke of joining a sect. I have thought about it, and I believe it is time for you to see more of the world."
Gian's eyes widened. "Really? I can join a sect?"
Jin nodded. "When you come of age at twelve, you will have the opportunity to choose a sect and train there for two years. It will be a time of learning, discipline, and growth."
Mochi clapped her hands, her excitement palpable. "Can I go too, Father?"
"Not yet," Jin said with a small smile. "Your time will come, but for now, you must stay here and grow a little more."
As Gian considered her options, Jin began explaining the renowned sects of Liangzhou, the largest country in the region.
"There is the Ethereal Moon Sect, known for its mastery of illusions and artistic cultivation," he said, glancing at Gian. "It may align well with your talents."
He continued, listing the Iron Flame Sect, a bastion of martial excellence, and the Verdant Peak Pavilion, famous for its alchemical advancements. Each had its strengths and unique teachings, and Jin described them with the precision of someone who had seen their innermost workings.
After much deliberation, Gian chose the Ethereal Moon Sect, drawn by its focus on creativity and refinement.
"Then it is decided," Jin said. "I will make the arrangements."
---
The World Stirs
News of Jin's decision spread like wildfire. When the Ethereal Moon Sect's leader, a woman of unparalleled grace and wisdom, learned of it, she immediately set out for Tianlan to personally receive Gian.
Her arrival was a grand event. Disciples of the Ethereal Moon Sect descended from the skies on crescent-shaped artifacts, their robes shimmering like moonlight. The streets of Tianlan were packed with onlookers, all eager to witness the meeting of legends.
The sect leader, a serene figure with silver hair cascading down her back, bowed deeply before Jin. "It is the highest honor to welcome your daughter to our sect, Lord Architect."
Jin's response was simple but firm. "See to it that she thrives."
Gian, dressed in her finest robes, stood beside her father, her expression a mix of excitement and nerves. Mochi clung to her sister's hand, tears welling in her eyes.
"You'll come back, right?" Mochi asked, her voice trembling.
"Of course I will," Gian said, hugging her tightly. "Two years isn't that long."
Jin watched the exchange with a calm exterior, though his thoughts were tinged with a rare sense of unease. This was the first step in his daughters' journey away from the sheltered life they had known.
As the Ethereal Moon Sect's delegation departed, Gian waved from the crescent-shaped artifact, her excitement evident despite the tears in her eyes. Jin stood at the gates of Tianlan, Mochi by his side, their figures silhouetted against the setting sun.
"She will return stronger," Jin said softly, more to himself than anyone else.
And so, a new chapter began—not just for Gian, but for the entire family. The world was vast, and their journeys within it were only just unfolding.