Seeds of Deception
Xiao Feng stood at the grand entrance of the Elder's Peak, his demeanor calm and respectful. The air around the hall was thick with authority, a constant reminder of the elders' influence within the Heaven Blade Sect. As the doors opened, he stepped inside, greeted by the sight of the Second Elder, Bai Zhentian, and Third Elder, Li Yuanhong, seated comfortably on their ornate chairs.
Both elders greeted him warmly, their smiles exuding false sincerity.
"Xiao Feng," Bai Zhentian said, motioning to a seat, "please, join us. It's good to see you back in the sect."
Xiao Feng bowed respectfully. "It's an honor to meet with the esteemed elders. Thank you for inviting me."
He took the offered seat, his expression composed, though his mind was already racing with plans.
Li Yuanhong poured a cup of exquisite wine and passed it to Xiao Feng. "This is the sect's finest brew, reserved for only the most special occasions. Please, have a taste."
Xiao Feng accepted the cup with a faint smile, taking a sip. The wine was rich and smooth, its quality undeniable. "An exceptional drink. Thank you for your generosity."
The elders exchanged a glance before Bai Zhentian leaned forward slightly, his tone shifting to one of seriousness. "Xiao Feng, we invited you here to… clear the air, so to speak. We understand that the past might have caused some resentment, but we hope to move beyond that."
Li Yuanhong nodded in agreement. "We don't want any lingering grudges between us. You're a prodigy of the sect, and it's only right that we work together for a brighter future."
Xiao Feng feigned a thoughtful expression before nodding. "Elders, your words are wise. The past is the past. I hold no ill will. Let's move forward together."
The elders smiled, clearly pleased with his response. The conversation then shifted to casual topics, ranging from sect affairs to Xiao Feng's recent exploits. Though polite and engaging, Xiao Feng's responses were calculated, ensuring he revealed nothing of his true thoughts.
After some time, Xiao Feng rose to his feet, bowing deeply. "Thank you for the wine and your words, elders. I'll take my leave now."
The elders nodded, watching him go.
As soon as he was out of earshot, Bai Zhentian scoffed. "He's still just a child, easily placated with a few words and gifts."
Li Yuanhong chuckled. "Indeed. As long as we keep him content, he'll remain a useful pawn."
Unbeknownst to them, Xiao Feng had heard every word, thanks to the system enhancing his senses. As their voices faded, a cold, knowing smile spread across his face.
"This is just the beginning," he murmured. "Enjoy your illusions while you can."
Later that evening, Xiao Feng entered Fairy Yulan's chambers. She was seated by the window, the moonlight casting a soft glow on her elegant features.
"Master," Xiao Feng began, bowing respectfully, "I've come to request your permission."
Fairy Yulan turned to him, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Permission for what?"
"I wish to leave the sect for a while," he replied. "There are things I need to accomplish outside—things that will strengthen not just me, but the sect as well."
She studied him carefully, her gaze sharp. "This journey… is it dangerous?"
Xiao Feng smiled faintly. "Every path has its risks, but I assure you, I'll return stronger than ever."
Fairy Yulan sighed, her expression softening. "You've always been ambitious, Xiao Feng. Very well, I grant you permission. But promise me you'll be careful."
"I promise, Master," he said sincerely.
As he left her chambers, his mind was already focused on the next step of his plan: finding the failed alchemist who, in the game, would one day rise to become the most powerful alchemist in the world.
Under the cover of night, Xiao Feng departed the sect, his thoughts racing with excitement. The alchemist's failure stemmed from a lack of resources and guidance—two things Xiao Feng could provide. By cultivating a bond with him early, Xiao Feng would gain access to an invaluable ally, one capable of crafting elixirs that could change the course of his plans.
"This world is my playground," he thought, his smirk widening as he vanished into the night. "And I've only just begun."