The carriage rattled to a halt in the small, lively town at the base of the mountains. This was the last stop before entering the territory of the Celestial Moon Pavilion, a renowned high-level sect. Though not the grandest among the cultivation world's titans, its reputation for producing exceptional talents and holding ancient traditions made it a sought-after destination for aspiring disciples.
Mochi hopped out of the carriage with boundless energy, her auburn hair bouncing as she stretched dramatically. Her amber eyes gleamed with curiosity as she took in the bustling streets filled with merchants, travelers, and performers showcasing their skills. Behind her, Hua Yi exited with more measured grace, smoothing the embroidered edges of her tunic.
"Look at this place!" Mochi exclaimed, spinning in a small circle to take in the sights. "It's like a carnival, but with cultivators! Maybe we should grab some snacks before we start walking."
Hua Yi gave her a sidelong glance but couldn't suppress a smile. "You're far too relaxed for someone about to enter a sect known for its strictness."
"Two years, Hua Yi," Mochi replied, holding up two fingers with a cheeky grin. "I'm here for the experience, not the grind. Plus, snacks are universal—they make everything better."
Hua Yi chuckled softly. "Fine, but let's not delay too long. We still have a fair distance to cover."
---
The Road to the Pavilion
The path leading to the Celestial Moon Pavilion transitioned from the cobbled streets of the town to a rugged trail winding up the mountains. The air grew cooler and crisper, tinged with faint traces of spiritual energy. The land around them became more vibrant, almost alive with an ethereal glow.
Towering spirit pines lined the trail, their needles shimmering faintly under the sunlight. Some bore crystalline fruits, their surfaces refracting light in a kaleidoscope of colors. Occasionally, strange sounds echoed through the forest—chirps, growls, and melodic cries of creatures unseen.
At one bend, the pair encountered a silver-feathered falcon perched on a gnarled branch, its keen eyes watching them with a mix of curiosity and intelligence. Mochi paused, tilting her head to mimic the bird's expression.
"Think it'll attack us?" she asked, her tone half-serious.
Hua Yi glanced at the falcon, her brow furrowing. "It's a Spirit Sentinel. They're usually harmless unless provoked. Just don't get too close."
Mochi nodded sagely, then whispered, "Noted. No falcon-hugs today."
Further along the trail, the scenery grew even more striking. Small, glowing streams wove between obsidian rock formations, their waters exuding a faint mist. Tiny spirit fireflies floated above the streams, their light dancing in rhythm like a silent orchestra.
"Now this is the kind of thing they don't show you in those sect brochures," Mochi said, her voice tinged with awe.
"You've seen sect brochures?" Hua Yi asked, half-laughing.
"Well, no. But if they existed, this would definitely be on the cover," Mochi replied with a grin.
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The Gatekeeper
As they ascended further, the trail widened into a stone-paved road leading to the sect's entrance. A pair of ornate gates stood tall against the mountain backdrop, their polished surface etched with intricate patterns depicting the moon in various phases. Behind the gates, the silhouette of the sect stretched across the mountainside—elegant, yet imposing. Towers and halls of jade and silver glinted in the fading sunlight, their beauty harmonizing with the rugged terrain.
Standing guard before the gates was a lone disciple. His royal-blue robes, embroidered with golden accents, gave him an air of authority. A jade crest on his chest marked him as an inner disciple tasked with safeguarding the sect's borders. Though his cultivation was below the Nascent Soul Realm, the energy he exuded was steady and disciplined.
As the two figures approached, the disciple's sharp eyes narrowed slightly. Today wasn't a day for new admissions—those had concluded months ago. Why were these two here now?
"Halt!" he called out, his voice firm but not unkind. "State your names and your purpose. The Celestial Moon Pavilion does not permit unauthorized entry."
Hua Yi stepped forward first, her expression calm yet polite. "My name is Hua Yi, of the Hua Clan. I have come to join the sect."
The guard's gaze dropped to the insignia on her tunic—a phoenix encircled by blooming lotuses. His brows lifted slightly in recognition. The Hua Clan's reputation was well-known, and their influence was not something to be trifled with. After a brief pause, he gave a respectful nod.
"The Hua Clan's name carries weight. You may proceed," he said, stepping aside.
Then his attention shifted to Mochi. He studied her closely, his sharp eyes scanning her for any signs of affiliation. The lack of an insignia on her attire made him pause, but his gaze lingered on the golden fox-like familiar perched on her shoulder.
Shimmer stretched lazily, its tiny wings shimmering faintly. The guard's eyes widened slightly as he noted its unusual aura—a creature of extraordinary origin, far beyond the capabilities of a common summoner.
Something about the girl nagged at his memory. She seemed familiar, but from where? Then it struck him—rumors from months ago about the Heavenly Sovereign himself, Jin, traveling with an auburn-haired daughter. Panic surged through him as realization dawned.
"This… you…" he stammered, his voice faltering.
Mochi, noticing his sudden unease, leaned forward with a playful smirk. Her amber eyes twinkled mischievously as she placed a finger to her lips and winked. "Shh. Let's keep this between us, okay?"
The disciple swallowed hard, nodding stiffly. "Of course, miss. You… may proceed."
Hua Yi tilted her head, eyeing the guard curiously. "Is something wrong?"
"Nothing at all!" Mochi chimed, grabbing Hua Yi's hand and pulling her along. "Come on, we've got a sect to explore!"
The guard watched them go, his composure cracking just slightly as he muttered under his breath, "What have I just gotten myself into…"
---
The Pavilion Unveiled
Beyond the gates, the sect revealed itself in full splendor. The Celestial Moon Pavilion spanned the mountainside, its architecture blending seamlessly with the natural terrain. Towering jade spires reached toward the heavens, their tips crowned with silver that gleamed in the twilight.
Bridges of translucent crystal connected the various buildings, suspended over cascading waterfalls and deep ravines. Training grounds buzzed with activity as disciples sparred, their movements leaving faint trails of spiritual energy in the air. Floating platforms hovered above the main courtyard, their surfaces etched with runes that pulsed softly.
Gardens of luminous flora stretched across the grounds, their petals glowing faintly in the evening light. Statues of past sect leaders stood proudly in prominent locations, their lifelike expressions a testament to the skill of their sculptors.
Hua Yi stopped in her tracks, her eyes wide with awe. "It's… breathtaking."
Mochi whistled, her expression one of delight. "Not bad. Not bad at all. I'd give it a solid nine out of ten. Needs more snacks, though."
Shimmer let out a soft chiming sound, as if in agreement.
With their journey to the sect finally complete, the two girls stood at the threshold of a new chapter—one filled with challenges, discovery, and perhaps, a bit of mischief.
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