The faint light of dawn filtered through the horizon, casting a golden hue across the small backyard of the guest residence. Li Tian stretched his arms as he stepped out into the crisp morning air, his sharp gaze wandering across the serene scenery. The morning dew clung to the grass, sparkling faintly under the nascent sunlight. The soft chirping of birds filled the quiet space, mingling with the gentle rustling of leaves swaying in the light breeze.
As he turned toward the far corner of the yard, his eyes caught sight of a figure kneeling by a row of carefully cultivated plants. Xiao Lan was there, dressed in simple yet elegant robes that bore the clan's insignia. Her sleeves were rolled up slightly, revealing slender arms as she carefully poured water from a bronze can into the soil. Her movements were fluid and precise, almost meditative, as if she found solace in the mundane task.
Li Tian raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk playing on his lips as he approached. "It seems the Yongshen Clan has not only warriors but also diligent gardeners," he remarked lightly, his voice breaking the tranquil silence.
Startled, Xiao Lan turned to look at him, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Oh, it's you, Mr. Zhao Ming," she said, standing up and dusting off her robes. "I didn't expect you to be up so early."
Li Tian leaned casually against a nearby post, crossing his arms. "An early riser is bound to catch the world before it awakens," he replied with a slight chuckle. His eyes lingered on her for a moment, observing her calm demeanor. "But I must say, it's rare to see someone so dedicated to tending plants. Are these medicinal herbs?"
Xiao Lan nodded, her expression softening as she glanced back at the plants. "Yes, most of these are used for alchemy or refining Gu worms. Some of them are also for healing purposes. It's a task I enjoy—it brings a certain peace to the life. Oh and if there's anything you need, don't hesitate to ask."
Li Tian gave her a polite nod, his mind already shifting gears. "I'll keep that in mind. Thank you, Miss Xiao."
As she returned to her task, Li Tian turned and walked back into the house, his thoughts racing. His mind mapped out various scenarios and contingencies.
"Today," he murmured to himself, "I'll begin laying the foundation for the next phase of the plan."
The sun climbed higher, casting its warm light over the clan's compound. In the shadows of his room, Li Tian's eyes gleamed with a dangerous determination. A plan was already forming in his mind, one that would turn the gears of fate in his favor once again.
After freshening up, Li Tian decided to take a bath to clear his mind further. The bathroom was modest but well-maintained, with polished wooden walls and a large ceramic tub filled with steaming water. He stripped off his robe and eased himself into the warm bath, feeling the heat seep into his muscles. The soothing sensation allowed him to focus, his mind running over the next steps of his intricate plan.
Once done, he dried off and dressed in a fresh set of robes bearing the insignia of the Yongshen Clan. The red-and-gold patterns shimmered faintly in the sunlight as he adjusted the folds. Feeling refreshed and presentable, he stepped out of the guest quarters and made his way to the main pavilion.
Upon entering, he was greeted by Yong Shen Wei, the clan leader, who sat in his usual place, radiating authority. Yong Shen Wei looked up as Li Tian approached, a faint smile curling his lips. "Ah, Zhao Ming. Have you rested well?"
Li Tian nodded respectfully. "Yes, Clan Leader. Thank you for your hospitality. I was wondering if there is anything I could assist with today."
Yong Shen Wei's eyes gleamed with interest. "Well, as a matter of fact, there is something. I've been curious about your strength. Would you be willing to spar with me today? It's been a while since I've tested myself against someone of equal cultivation."
Li Tian's lips curved into a subtle smile, his gaze steady. "It would be an honor, Clan Leader. I'll do my best not to disappoint."
Yong Shen Wei's laughter filled the room, warm and hearty. "Excellent! Let us prepare for the match. I'll have someone escort you to the training grounds shortly."
Li Tian inclined his head, his thoughts already spinning. A sparring match with the clan leader was the perfect opportunity to showcase his abilities—and perhaps gain an even stronger foothold in the Yong Clan's favor.
The training grounds were abuzz with activity as Li Tian and Yong Shen Wei arrived. Several clan members had gathered, their eyes brimming with curiosity and excitement. Wooden platforms were arranged in the center of the grounds, surrounded by raised stone seating for onlookers.
Li Tian raised an eyebrow at the crowd. "Why are there so many people here?"
Yong Shen Wei chuckled, his voice carrying an undertone of pride. "A sparring match like ours is a rare opportunity. Watching cultivators of our level exchange blows can inspire the younger generation. It's a chance for them to learn and strengthen their determination."
Nodding in understanding, Li Tian stepped onto the platform, his posture relaxed yet poised. Yong Shen Wei followed, his presence commanding respect. The crowd quieted, anticipation hanging heavy in the air.
The match began without ceremony, but the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Li Tian adopted a cautious stance, his movements calculated and fluid, giving off the air of a seasoned fighter. He refrained from employing any Reality Path Gu worms or killer moves, opting instead to rely on the finesse of Space Path techniques. Opposite him, Yong Shen Wei wasted no time, unleashing a barrage of Wind Path attacks.
Li Tian activated his Blink Gu, a Rank 4 Space Path Gu worm that allowed him to teleport short distances with pinpoint accuracy. In a flash, he vanished and reappeared behind Yong Shen Wei, aiming a swift kick at his opponent's side. Anticipating the move, Yong Shen Wei conjured a protective gust with his Gale Shield Gu, a Rank 4 defensive Wind Path Gu worm. The clash created a sharp gust that rustled the nearby audience's robes.
Yong Shen Wei retaliated by activating Wind Blade Gu, summoning razor-sharp currents of air that streaked toward Li Tian with lethal intent. With a flick of his wrist, Li Tian summoned Spatial Barrier Gu, forming a translucent, shimmering shield that absorbed the impact of the wind blades effortlessly. The crowd watched in awe, their murmurs barely audible over the ongoing clash.
As the battle intensified, Yong Shen Wei launched a killer move, Tempest Surge, combining three Wind Path Gu worms to conjure a chaotic vortex of wind. The howling tempest surged toward Li Tian, threatening to overwhelm him. Unfazed, Li Tian executed Spatial Rend, a killer move integrating Space Path Gu worms to create razor-sharp spatial tears. These tears sliced through the tempest, creating an explosive collision of energy that sent shockwaves rippling across the platform, forcing onlookers to shield their faces.
Yong Shen Wei pressed forward, his wind techniques creating a tempestuous rhythm that tested Li Tian's defenses. But Li Tian held his ground, his expressions calm and composed, as if calculating every possible move. He artfully dodged a direct confrontation, teleporting to the side with Blink Gu, before sending a spatial ripple that disrupted Yong Shen Wei's footing.
After a grueling exchange, Yong Shen Wei finally raised a hand, signaling the end of the match. His breathing was labored, yet his face bore a broad smile. "Impressive, Zhao Ming. Your mastery of Space Path techniques is beyond expectation."
Li Tian inclined his head respectfully, a faint smile playing on his lips. "You honor me, Clan Leader. It was a privilege to spar with someone of your caliber."