Chapter 11: A New Role and the Event
The morning light filtered through the ornate windows of the Supreme Celestial Sect, casting gentle beams across the Dao-patterned floors. Zhang Xian stood in the center of his chamber, a peaceful but deep resolve in his heart. The time had come to make an important declaration. His bond with He Ruxue had evolved beyond the realm of master and disciple. Today, he would recognize her as his partner in every sense.
Ruxue had been with him through countless challenges, a constant and unyielding presence at his side. Now, it was time to solidify their connection in the eyes of the Sect and the world beyond. With this decision, he knew that they would face the future not just as allies, but as equals.
He turned as he heard the soft rustle of fabric, sensing her presence just beyond the door. Zhang Xian opened it, offering her a warm, reassuring smile.
"Ruxue," he began, his voice calm and steady. "Come in. There is something important we need to talk about."
He stepped aside, letting her enter. Ruxue moved with grace, her every motion reflecting her composure and strength. Her Dao Physique still emanated a subtle but powerful glow, a reminder of her immense potential. She met his gaze, waiting for him to speak.
Zhang Xian took a deep breath, knowing the significance of this moment. "From now on," he said, his voice filled with determination, "I will not call you a disciple anymore. You are my wife, Ruxue. We are bound not only by cultivation but by a deeper bond. I want the world to know that."
For a moment, Ruxue's eyes widened in surprise, her usual calm demeanor faltering for just a fraction of a second. Then, as if accepting the weight of his words, a smile spread across her face, warm and genuine. "Zhang Xian..." she whispered, her voice tinged with emotion. "I never thought I would hear those words. But... it feels right. I am honored to be by your side."
Zhang Xian smiled, his heart lightening at her response. It was a bond forged not just through cultivation, but through trust, respect, and a shared journey. They were no longer just master and disciple, but partners in life.
However, before they could indulge in the quiet joy of the moment, Ruxue's voice cut through the air, taking a more serious tone. "There is something I must tell you," she said, her brow furrowing as she approached him. "It's about the events unfolding outside."
Zhang Xian's expression shifted. "What do you mean?"
Ruxue took a step closer, her eyes locking with his. "Every twenty years, a significant event takes place in the cultivation world: the Demon Suppression Event. It is an event where all the major sects and powerful cultivators gather to suppress the demon beasts that have emerged from the weakening seals of a powerful demon. These beasts have been wreaking havoc on the surrounding areas. It's a critical time for the cultivation world, as the sealing areas begin to leak once again."
Zhang Xian's expression darkened slightly. "So this is something that happens every 20 years?"
Ruxue nodded. "Yes. The seals are ancient and have weakened over time. Every two decades, powerful sects and cultivators from across the world come together to seal the beasts that have emerged and prevent them from causing even greater destruction. It's a dangerous and demanding task that requires the full cooperation of the major sects."
Zhang Xian thought for a moment. "And why are you telling me this now?"
Ruxue's gaze softened, but her voice remained firm. "Because the Supreme Celestial Sect, though isolated and powerful, cannot remain on the sidelines. If the seals break completely, the demon beasts will flood the world, threatening not just the weaker sects, but even the strongest ones. We must be prepared, Zhang Xian."
Zhang Xian looked out toward the horizon, his mind racing with the implications of the situation. "We're not just talking about some rogue beasts, are we?"
"No," Ruxue said, her expression grim. "These are creatures created by the leak of a powerful demon's seal. Their appearance is only a symptom of a much greater threat. The event is not just about sealing the beasts—it's about maintaining the balance of the cultivation world. If we let this slip, the consequences could be catastrophic."
Zhang Xian's eyes narrowed. "I see. I will begin preparations. The Sect must be ready. We'll gather intelligence and see how we can help. We may not be directly involved in this event, but we must ensure that no matter what happens, we can stand our ground."
Ruxue gave him a gentle but firm look. "Zhang Xian, I know you believe in the strength of the Supreme Celestial Sect, but the stakes are much higher than the beasts themselves. The true danger lies in the one who is sealed. We cannot afford to underestimate this event."
Zhang Xian nodded, his resolve hardening. "Prepare the Sect, Ruxue. Let them know what's at stake. We will not let this threat grow beyond our control."
Ruxue placed a hand on his arm, her touch reassuring. "Whatever happens, I will stand by your side, Zhang Xian."
Zhang Xian turned to face the window, looking out over the serene floating island. The peaceful waters of the sea beneath them belied the growing storm in the outside world. The Demon Suppression Event may have started with something as simple as sealing demon beasts, but Zhang Xian knew there was far more at stake than the world outside realized.
"Prepare the Sect," Zhang Xian said, his voice resolute. "We must be ready for whatever comes next."
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End of Chapter 11