The hidden valley was a place of tranquility and power, a sanctuary where time seemed to stand still. For Li Wei, it was the perfect place to train and regain his strength. The Lake of Reflection had already helped him reach the 2nd Stage of Qi Gathering, but he knew that was just the beginning.
As the sun rose over the valley, Li Wei stood by the lake, his body bathed in the golden light of dawn. He closed his eyes and focused on his breathing, drawing in the pure Qi from the lake. The energy flowed through him, filling him with warmth and power.
"Not bad," a voice said, breaking his concentration.
Li Wei opened his eyes to see Xiao Mei standing nearby, her arms crossed and a playful smile on her face. "You're getting better," she said. "But you still have a long way to go."
Li Wei raised an eyebrow. "And you're an expert, I suppose?"
Xiao Mei grinned. "I've been cultivating since I could walk. My grandfather taught me everything I know."
Li Wei couldn't help but smile. There was something about Xiao Mei's confidence and energy that reminded him of Xiao Lan, the disciple he had loved in his past life. But he quickly pushed the thought aside. This was a new life, and he couldn't afford to dwell on the past.
"Speaking of your grandfather," Li Wei said, "when do I get to meet him?"
Xiao Mei's smile faded slightly. "He's... not easy to impress. But don't worry, I'll put in a good word for you."
Later that day, Xiao Mei led Li Wei to a small hut nestled at the base of the cliffs. The hut was simple but well-maintained, with a garden of medicinal herbs growing nearby. As they approached, an old man emerged from the hut, his eyes sharp and his posture straight despite his age.
"Grandfather," Xiao Mei said, "this is Li Wei. He's the one I told you about."
The old man studied Li Wei with a critical eye. "So, you're the boy who thinks he can cultivate in my valley."
Li Wei bowed respectfully. "I meant no disrespect, Elder. I was drawn to this place by its energy. I only wish to train and grow stronger."
The old man's expression softened slightly. "Hmph. At least you have manners. Very well, you may stay—for now. But remember, this valley is not a playground. If you waste my time, you'll regret it."
Li Wei nodded. "Thank you, Elder. I won't let you down."
Under the guidance of the old master, Li Wei's training intensified. The old man, who introduced himself as Elder Bai, was a strict but knowledgeable teacher. He taught Li Wei advanced cultivation techniques, including how to refine his Qi and strengthen his body.
One day, Elder Bai took Li Wei to a secluded part of the valley, where a series of stone pillars stood in a circle. Each pillar was covered in ancient runes, glowing faintly with energy.
"This is the Circle of Ascension," Elder Bai explained. "It's a training ground designed to test your limits. If you can complete the trial, you'll gain a deeper understanding of your own power."
Li Wei stepped into the circle, feeling the energy of the runes pulsating around him. As soon as he entered, the pillars began to glow brighter, and a series of illusions appeared before him. He saw himself surrounded by enemies, each one more powerful than the last.
"Focus, Li Wei," Elder Bai's voice echoed in his mind. "This is not just a test of strength, but of willpower and determination."
Li Wei closed his eyes and focused on his breathing, drawing in the energy of the circle. The illusions attacked, but he stood his ground, using his newfound skills to deflect their blows. The trial was grueling, but Li Wei refused to give up.
As Li Wei fought through the illusions, fragments of his past life continued to surface. He saw himself standing on a battlefield, surrounded by enemies. He saw the faces of those who had betrayed him, their eyes filled with greed and malice. And he saw Xiao Lan, the young disciple who had stood by his side until the very end.
"Xiao Lan..." he whispered, his voice barely audible. "I hope you're still out there somewhere."
After completing the trial, Li Wei collapsed to the ground, exhausted but triumphant. Xiao Mei ran over to him, a wide grin on her face.
"Not bad for a beginner," she said, offering him a hand. "But you still have a long way to go."
Li Wei groaned as he took her hand. "Thanks for the vote of confidence."
Li Wei's training in the hidden valley was just beginning, but he had already made significant progress. With the guidance of Elder Bai and the support of Xiao Mei, he was slowly but surely regaining his former strength. But as he delved deeper into the secrets of the valley, he couldn't shake the feeling that his journey was only just beginning.