As the sun began its descent towards the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and crimson, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao approached Peach Blossom Spring Village. Weary yet steadfast, they carried the weight of their journey and the somber news they were about to deliver. From a distance, they observed the village, a hub of activity and recovery. Villagers, resilient in the face of adversity, were diligently erasing the remnants of the recent calamity, covering the tainted ground with fresh soil, and burning the withered crops that once promised sustenance. Amidst this scene of renewal, new graves stood solemnly, a stark reminder of the lives lost before the cultivators' arrival.

As Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao approached the village entrance, they were met by a crowd of villagers. Their expressions were a mix of relief and grief. One of the villagers, an elderly woman with lines of both joy and sorrow etched on her face, stepped forward.

"Thank heavens, you've returned safely, kind cultivators," she said, her voice trembling with emotion.

A young woman, her eyes brimming with unshed tears, added softly, "But our hearts are heavy for those we've lost. They went seeking answers for our plight... and never returned."

An old man, leaning on a staff, sighed deeply. "They were our kin, our friends. Brave souls venturing into the unknown for our sake."

Their words, tinged with a blend of gratitude and mourning, echoed the sentiments of the entire crowd, reflecting the complex tapestry of emotions that the village had been weaving since the calamity struck.

Chief Ming, his presence commanding yet marked by the wear of recent events, stepped to the forefront, welcoming the cultivators with a mix of hope and apprehension. "Have you found our villagers?" he inquired cautiously, his voice barely concealing his dread of the answer.

Feng Hao, his expression heavy with regret, broke the silence. "The villagers... they lost their lives to a Venomous Mud Toad, a Demonic Beast in the upper river area." At his signal, Zhang Liwei, with a countenance shadowed by sorrow, gently placed the remains of the villagers on the ground. These remains, which he had carried with utmost respect throughout their journey back, now lay before the villagers as a silent testament to their loss.

Chief Ming's eyes brimmed with tears, his fists clenched in a mix of grief and frustration. "Our villagers led simple lives, taking only what was necessary from nature, living in harmony and peace. Yet, such misfortune befell us," he lamented, his voice quivering with emotion. In his despair, he couldn't help but question the heavens for the harshness dealt to their small community.

Pausing, his gaze then shifted to the cultivators, a flicker of inquiry in his eyes. "But tell me, what of the Demonic Toad, the source of this disaster? Were you able to vanquish the beast that brought such calamity upon our humble village?" Chief Ming's voice held a mix of hope and dread, seeking confirmation of the fate of the creature that had cast such a dark shadow over their lives.

With a respectful nod, Feng Hao revealed the tongue of the toad, a gruesome yet necessary proof of their victory. "The toad is no more, and the river's waters should be safe once again," he assured. Chief Ming, his head bowed in a mix of sorrow and gratitude, recognized the magnitude of their deed. "Without your bravery and skills, our entire village would have been lost," he acknowledged, his voice laden with a profound sense of indebtedness.

Chief Ming then motioned to the other villagers, who stepped forward to carefully collect the remains. These villagers, though stricken by loss, were united in their resolve to honor their fallen with a proper burial. In this moment, the village, battered by misfortune, found a glimmer of solace in the actions of Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao, their saviors who had ventured beyond the bounds of their simple world to confront a darkness that threatened to consume them all.

In the midst of the villagers' palpable mix of relief and sorrow, Zhang Liwei, keenly aware of the somber mood, sought to steer the conversation towards more pragmatic concerns. He addressed Chief Ming with a tone of genuine concern.

"Chief Ming, with the damage to your crops, I can't help but wonder about the state of your food reserves. How will the village fare in the coming days?" Zhang Liwei's question, posed amidst the backdrop of emotional turmoil, reflected his deep consideration for the villagers' immediate needs and future survival.

Chief Ming, with a hint of pride in his voice, assured them, "Do not worry, esteemed cultivators. We maintain emergency reserves in our granary. Last year's harvest was bountiful, and it will see us through the winter, which is still a couple of moon cycles away."

Chief Ming continued, his voice now tinged with optimism, "and thankfully, with the river cleansed of its contamination, we can now turn to it once more for sustenance. We'll be able to fish again, and the nearby forests will provide for foraging and hunting."

Feng Hao, relieved by this news, chimed in, "That's heartening to hear, Chief Ming. The river and forests have always been lifelines for your village. It's good to know they can once again serve their natural purpose."

Sun dipped towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the village path, when the young cultivators returned triumphantly with a large wild boar and a deer, their contribution far exceeding the expectations of the villagers.

Chief Ming, observing the return of Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao with the game, couldn't hide his admiration. "Look at what these noble cultivators have brought us!" he exclaimed to the gathered villagers. "Let us prepare a grand feast in their honor. Bring out the finest wine and all the foods from our storage."

One of the villagers, energized by the chief's enthusiasm, responded, "Yes, Chief Ming! We shall turn our village square into a place of celebration to honor their deeds."

Another villager, joining in the preparations, added, "Their benevolence shall not go unnoticed. Tonight, we feast not just in gratitude, but also in remembrance of those we've lost."

The chief's call to action and the villagers' eager responses highlighted the communal spirit of the village, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration amidst the lingering shadow of recent events.

Tables were arranged in neat rows, each adorned with an array of local delicacies. Smoked fish from the now-purified river, vegetables and herbs foraged from the forest, and the succulent meat of the boar and deer, expertly cooked and seasoned, formed the centerpiece of the feast. Jugs of rice wine, aged and fragrant, were placed at intervals, their contents shimmering under the soft glow of lanterns that hung from the trees.

The atmosphere was bittersweet. While the feast was a gesture of gratitude to Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao, it also served as a moment to remember those who had lost their lives in the recent tragedy. The villagers, united in their grief and gratitude, raised their cups in a heartfelt toast to the cultivators.

With voices blending in a chorus of sincerity, they expressed their thanks. "We are but a simple village with no treasures to offer, but may the Heavens look upon you as favorably as you have looked upon us. May you be showered with the same protection and mercy you've bestowed upon us," they proclaimed, their words echoing the depth of their gratitude.

This feast, amidst the rustic charm of Peach Blossom Spring Village, became a poignant symbol of the cycle of life—of loss and gratitude, of despair and hope. It was a night where the heart of a small village beat in unison, filled with the spirit of resilience and the warmth of human kindness.

As the night enveloped Peach Blossom Spring Village in a veil of tranquility, a young girl, her steps hesitant yet filled with purpose, approached Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao. In her hands, she held two peaches, their skins blushing with the promise of sweetness.

This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

With a shy smile that lit up her innocent eyes, she presented the fruits to the cultivators. "Our village is named after these peaches," she said softly, "It's not much, but I want you to have them."

In that moment, as they accepted the peaches, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao realized the true value of their efforts. This young girl, unscathed and smiling, was the embodiment of the lives they had strived to protect. The risk they had taken, the dangers they had faced, all paled in comparison to the worth of her innocent smile and unblemished eyes. No amount of gold or silver could rival the purity and significance of this simple gesture. Smiling warmly, they gently ruffled the girl's hair, their hearts swelling with a profound sense of fulfillment.

As the feast wound down and the villagers began to retire, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao were shown to a vacant house that had been prepared for them. In the quiet of the night, as they settled in, they reflected on the day's events and the gratifying feelings that came with them.

Feng Hao, in a contemplative mood, turned to Zhang Liwei, resuming a conversation they had started days earlier. "You know, before I met you, my journey was quite solitary. I remember when my master found me. I was alone, cultivating by a lake, struggling without guidance."

Zhang Liwei listened attentively, nodding for him to continue.

Feng Hao sighed, a distant look in his eyes. "My master, Master Lian, saw something in me. He trained me for a few years, helped me lay a solid foundation. But after leaving his tutelage, I walked the path of a rogue cultivator, seeking only to strengthen myself, facing dangers head-on."

He paused, a rare vulnerability in his voice. "But this... helping the villagers out of pure compassion... I've never done anything like this before. It's a new feeling for me."

Zhang Liwei could hear the sincerity in his friend's voice, understanding the depth of the change taking place within him.

"This feeling, it's truly wonderful," Feng Hao admitted, a newfound realization dawning within him. "It's as if I've found a new purpose for my cultivation."

Zhang Liwei smiled, deeply understanding his friend's sentiments. He, too, had experienced this profound joy, the fulfillment that came from using his abilities to aid his loved ones and those in need.

As they delved deeper into their reflections, an extraordinary occurrence unfolded. Feng Hao, caught in a moment of epiphany, began to draw the surrounding Water Qi towards him. The cool, swirling Qi rushed towards his Dantian, enveloping him in a dense, purifying energy. It was a sight to behold, the Qi baptizing him, signaling a breakthrough in his cultivation.

Recognizing the significance of this moment, Zhang Liwei swiftly stood up and positioned himself in front of the house. His presence was both a guard and a silent herald of the remarkable transformation occurring within. He was determined to ensure that no disturbance, be it from the villagers or any external threat, would interrupt Feng Hao's pivotal moment of breakthrough. The night, witness to this profound change, seemed to hold its breath, as one cultivator stood guard while another ascended to new heights in his cultivation journey.

Outside the house, under the canopy of a star-studded sky, Zhang Liwei observed the extraordinary phenomenon unfolding around him. The Water Qi, usually gentle and flowing, now swirled in a powerful vortex, enveloping the house with an intensity he had never witnessed before. He studied the ancient patterns of this Qi, noting how distinctly different they were from the norm.

Zhang Liwei, observing the transformation happening before him, thought to himself in hushed awe, "This is no ordinary shift in Feng Hao's cultivation. The quality, the sheer quantity of Qi he's channeling... it's astounding. This isn't just a fluctuation in his power; it's a monumental leap into a higher realm. When we first met, we were both at the peak of the Whispering Qi Initiation realm, but now, Feng Hao... he's moving beyond, advancing to realms I've yet to reach." His thoughts were a mix of admiration and contemplation, recognizing the significant stride his friend had taken on their shared path of cultivation.

Zhang Liwei stood vigil throughout the night, a sentinel ensuring the sanctity of this critical moment. As dawn's first light began to paint the sky, the vortex of Water Qi gradually calmed, its presence dissipating like a fading storm. Then, a sudden yell from Feng Hao broke the silence, marking the end of the transformative process.

Emerging from the house, Feng Hao appeared slightly bewildered but exhilarated. He approached Zhang Liwei, his voice filled with a blend of gratitude and excitement. "Liwei, I owe you thanks for standing guard. And... I've made a breakthrough, into the Radiant Foundation Nexus realm," he announced, his eyes shining with a mix of awe and humility.

Zhang Liwei, his face breaking into a wide smile, responded warmly, "Hao, that's incredible! Your hard work and determination have truly paid off. I'm genuinely happy for you."

Feng Hao nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "It's strange, you know. Finding a real purpose... it changed everything for me. It was like a key turning in a lock, and my Qi just... responded, grew from that seed of purpose."

Zhang Liwei listened intently, his eyes reflecting pride and understanding. "Each cultivator's journey is unique, molded by their own experiences and aspirations. Witnessing your breakthrough has given me much to ponder about my own path."

After a moment of contemplative silence, Feng Hao suggested, "You should rest, Liwei. It's been a long night, and though our cultivation sustains us, the mind and spirit also need rest."

Zhang Liwei, recognizing the truth in his friend's words, agreed, "You're right, Feng Hao. A short rest will do me good. And you... get accustomed to your newfound power. We have a long road ahead."

As Zhang Liwei settled down for a nap, the two friends shared a moment of mutual respect and understanding, each contemplating their own journey in the vast world of cultivation.

When Zhang Liwei awoke, it was already midday. Stepping out of the house, he saw Feng Hao sitting cross-legged, a serene figure of newfound strength. Liwei could sense a solid core of Qi within his friend, emitting a faint yet distinct light from his Dantian. This was the solidified Qi unique to cultivators of the Radiant Foundation Nexus realm, radiant in both essence and appearance. The sight filled Zhang Liwei with a sense of admiration and a renewed motivation for his own cultivation journey, a path filled with endless possibilities and profound transformations.

As Zhang Liwei emerged from the house, refreshed from his nap, Feng Hao concluded his meditative session and rose to his feet. "Are you ready to get back on the road?" Feng Hao asked. Zhang Liwei nodded, and together they gathered their belongings and made their way to the center of the village.

Chief Ming, who was still engrossed in directing the villagers' recovery efforts, noticed the young cultivators preparing to depart. He quickly fetched a bag from a corner and approached them.

"Ah, Benevolent Cultivators!" he greeted them warmly. "I see you are preparing to leave us."

Zhang Liwei responded with a respectful nod, "Yes, Chief Ming. Our journey calls us onward."

Chief Ming extended the bag in his hands towards them. "Before you go, please accept this small token from us. It's not much, just some dried rations for your journey ahead."

Feng Hao, taking the bag, replied with sincere gratitude, "Chief Ming, your generosity overwhelms us. Thank you. These provisions will be of great help on our travels."

Chief Ming smiled, a look of admiration in his eyes. "It's the least we can do. Safe travels, and may the winds guide you on a peaceful path."

Their exchange, filled with respect and gratitude, reflected the deep bond formed between the cultivators and the village, a connection forged in the crucible of adversity.

As Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao approached the village entrance, the gathered villagers looked on with admiration and gratitude. The young girl who had gifted them the peaches the previous night stepped forward, her eyes filled with hope.

"I will wait for you to come back," she said, her voice tinged with the innocence of youth.

Zhang Liwei knelt down to her level, his smile bright and sincere. "I promise to visit again whenever I can," he assured her, giving her a gentle hug and ruffling her hair. Then, realizing something, he asked, "By the way, what's your name?"

With a shy smile, the girl replied, "My name is Xi."

At that moment, Feng Hao, with a mischievous glint in his eye, chimed in. "Ah, Liwei, securing a future bride, are we?"

Zhang Liwei's face turned a shade of red, and he quickly stammered, "No, no, it's not like that. I was just—"

His explanation was cut short by the laughter of the surrounding villagers, who found delight in the light-hearted teasing. The air was filled with their joyous laughter as the cultivators prepared to take their leave, the village's spirit uplifted by the brief yet meaningful connection they had shared.

Waving goodbye to the villagers, the cultivators set off, their hearts warmed by the sincere farewell. For Feng Hao, the experience was especially profound. He reflected on his past—his decision to run away from home to avoid the responsibilities of being a firstborn son destined to be a merchant. He had taken a valuable tome with him, one that his family had spent a fortune on, meant for handsome profit. His journey had been one of solitude, a constant battle for survival against Demonic Beasts and the harshness of the wild.

This encounter with the villagers of Peach Blossom Spring Village, however, had begun to shape a new direction in his cultivation journey. For the first time, Feng Hao felt a clear purpose in his path. The experience had given him a newfound understanding of what he sought on the road of cultivation, a journey no longer defined solely by personal power and survival, but by the meaningful impact he could have on the lives of others.